When Should I Fertilize My Horse Chestnut Tree?

spring.
This method of fertilization should only be done once a year, and is best done in late fall after leaf drop, or in early spring before the buds break open. Multi Purpose 10-10-10 Fertilizer works well.

What is the best fertilizer for chestnut trees?

We recommend using Scotts Osmocote Plus for younger trees outdoor/indoor (15-9-12) or Espoma Holly Tone or Tree Tone Organic Fertilizer recommended amount per directions. Spread the fertilizer evenly under the entire canopy of the tree avoiding a 5-inch area around the trunk.

How do you look after chestnut trees?

For best growth, plant in full sun, in a well drained fertile, deep soil. Always plant so the grafting union is above the level of the soil. Plant in a hole big enough to accommodate the depth and size of the roots, and water in well.

Where do horse chestnut trees grow best?

The horsechestnut grows in acidic, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, silty loam, well-drained and clay soils.

How long does it take for a chestnut tree to grow to maturity?

They begin to bear in only 3-5 years, and by 10 years can produce as much as 10-20 lbs/tree. At maturity (15-20 years) they can produce as much as 50-100 lbs/tree or up to 2,000-3,000 lbs/acre each year. (Trees planted in colder regions such as USDA zone 5, may bear between 5 and 7 years of age.)

Should chestnut trees be fertilized?

Once the trees are established, fertilize in early spring (March-May) when new growth begins, and again with the start of summer rains (June-July). Do not fertilize in the fall, as this can promote late-season tender growth that can be damaged by early frosts.

How much fertilizer does a chestnut tree need?

Low vigor: If tree growth is considered low (under 8 inches per year) then a multiplier rate of 1/6 lb. (2.7 oz.) nitrogen per inch of trunk diameter is used. Normal vigor: If tree growth is considered normal (8 to 12 inches per year) then a multiplier rate of 1/8 lb.

What is the lifespan of a horse chestnut tree?

to 300 years
This tree can live for up to 300 years. Its conkers sit inside a spiky green shell, before falling to the ground in autumn. Mature horse chestnut trees grow to a height of around 40m and can live for up to 300 years. The bark is smooth and pinky-grey when young, which darkens and develops scaly plates with age.

When should I prune my horse chestnut?

These trees should be pruned in fall after the leaves have dropped or in early spring, before the sap starts to flow (March), this may reduce flowers. If needed, a few small branches can be removed in summer after the leaves have reached full size.

Does a chestnut tree need a lot of water?

About a gallon of water per tree is usually enough. If it is really hot, they may need a second watering during the week. The area around the trees should be kept mowed. A circle about three feet wider than the diameter of the trees should be kept free of grass and weeds.

Why are horse chestnuts not edible?

Sweet chestnuts are edible, but horse chestnuts are poisonous. If eaten, they can cause digestive problems such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and throat irritation. More than one in 10 cases of poisonous plants being mistaken for edible plants involve horse and sweet chestnuts.

What is the difference between a chestnut tree and a horse chestnut tree?

while sweet chestnut trees grow in woods, forests or groves; each horse chestnut leaf consists of several oval “leaflets”, which give the whole leaf a palm-shaped appearance, whereas sweet chestnut leaves are simple and elongated without leaflets.

Do horse chestnut trees bloom every year?

Every year around this time, the horse-chestnuts, Aesculus, burst with gorgeous pink flower clusters.

Do you need 2 chestnut trees to produce fruit?

Make sure you have enough space for at least two giant trees before committing to grow chestnuts. You’ll also need to plan to have at least two chestnut trees planted within ~100 feet of each other (or less). This ensures that your chestnuts will be able to cross-pollinate in order to produce nuts.

Are there male and female chestnut trees?

Flowering American chestnut trees will either have only male flowers or both male and female flowers. A chestnut tree rarely self-pollinates, which means that at least two chestnut trees need to be near each other for viable nut production.

What kind of soil do chestnut trees like?

loamy
Soil type is the absolute, number-one consideration when deciding where—or whether—to plant American chestnuts. These trees demand well-drained, acidic soil with a sandy to loamy texture. Permanently wet, basic, or clay soils are out of the question.

Is Epsom salt good for chestnut trees?

Epsom Salt is used on fruit trees or vegetables to help them yield larger, sweeter, and more fruits. It works great also for nut trees and fruit shrubs.

What pollinates a horse chestnut tree?

flying bumble bees
Horse Chestnuts are one of the first trees to come into leaf each year. The leaves are made up of 5 to 7 leaflets. These trees look at their best in springtime, when they are covered with clusters of either pink or white flowers, known as ‘candles’. The flowers are normally pollinated by the early flying bumble bees.

When should trees be fertilized?

For all trees and shrubs.
If needed, the best time to fertilize is late April or early May, or late fall once plants are dormant. The recommended fertilizer should be spread evenly across the soil surface. The amount of actual nitrogen applied should be 3 pounds per 1,000 square feet.

How often should I water my chestnut tree?

Water thoroughly for at least the first month after planting. For best success, water with about 1 gallon per tree every week.

Why are my chestnut trees turning brown?

Leaf blotch of horse chestnut is caused by the fungus Guignardia aesculi. This is a common disease which causes browning of the leaves especially during years with wet springs. It is usually not of concern to the health of the tree although young trees and nursery stock may suffer due to complete defoliation.