Towering oak trees are a signature part of Savannah’s charm—gracing streets, parks, and private properties with their sprawling canopies and historic beauty. But even the strongest oak trees need support to thrive, especially in the Southeast’s challenging climate and soil conditions. If you're wondering how to keep your oaks healthy and vibrant, proper tree fertilization is the place to start.
In this post, we’ll cover the essentials of fertilizing oak trees in Savannah, GA, and how Kolcun Tree Care’s certified arborists can help homeowners and commercial property owners care for these valuable trees with expert guidance.
Why Fertilization Matters for Oak Trees
Many property owners assume mature oak trees don’t need fertilization—but that’s a common misconception. Even large, healthy trees can become nutrient deficient over time due to:
- Sandy or compacted soils (common in Savannah and the Lowcountry)
- Competition from turfgrass or other landscaping
- Construction damage to roots
- Drought stress or poor drainage
Without the proper nutrients, oak trees may begin to show signs of decline—thinning canopies, discolored leaves, or slow growth. That's where a strategic tree care and fertilization plan can make all the difference.
Benefits of Professional Tree Fertilization
Fertilizing your oak trees the right way provides several long-term advantages:
For Residential Properties:
- Enhances curb appeal with fuller, greener canopies
- Promotes stronger root development for storm resilience
- Reduces the risk of disease or pest infestation
- Extends the life of historic or heritage trees
For Commercial Landscapes:
- Keeps public spaces looking well-maintained
- Improves tree safety near walkways and structures
- Protects landscaping investments
- Minimizes liability with healthier, structurally sound trees
Whether you’re maintaining a live oak in a private backyard or a canopy of trees in a city park, proper fertilization supports overall tree health care and landscape value.
When and How to Fertilize Oak Trees in Savannah
Timing and technique are critical when fertilizing oak trees. Over-fertilizing—or using the wrong materials—can do more harm than good. At Kolcun Tree Care, we customize fertilization programs based on the tree species, soil composition, and the property’s unique conditions.
Ideal Timing:
- Late fall or early spring are typically the best times to fertilize oak trees in Savannah.
- Fertilizing in the fall supports root development through winter.
- Spring fertilization helps trees prepare for summer growth and stress.
Application Methods:
Professional fertilization goes beyond surface treatments. We use deep-root fertilization techniques to deliver nutrients directly into the root zone. This method ensures:
- Maximum nutrient absorption
- Minimal runoff or waste
- Healthier soil microbiology
- Longer-lasting results
Signs Your Oak Trees Need Fertilization
Not sure if your trees need help? Our ISA-certified arborists can evaluate the health of your oaks and identify signs of nutrient deficiency. Look for:
- Yellowing or browning leaves
- Sparse foliage or canopy dieback
- Smaller than normal leaf size
- Premature leaf drop
- Little to no annual growth
We combine visual assessments with soil testing and inspections to identify exactly what your trees need—and avoid unnecessary treatments.
Why Trust Kolcun Tree Care?
With over 20 years of experience serving Savannah, Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, and surrounding areas, Kolcun Tree Care brings unmatched expertise and customer care to every job.
What Sets Us Apart:
- ISA-Certified Arborists who understand Lowcountry tree species and soils
- Family-owned and operated, with a strong reputation for reliability and safety
- Customized care plans based on real-world tree health—not guesswork
- Full-service capabilities, including tree pruning and trimming, tree removal, stump grinding, and debris cleanup
When it comes to fertilizing oak trees in Savannah, we take a precise, science-backed approach to protect and preserve these iconic trees for generations.
Seasonal Tree Care Tips for Savannah Property Owners
Fertilization is just one part of comprehensive tree care. To keep your oak trees thriving year-round, follow these seasonal tips:
Fall/Winter
- Inspect for storm damage or structural weakness
- Schedule tree pruning during dormancy
- Apply deep-root fertilization in late fall for root strength
Spring/Summer
- Check for pests like borers or leaf spot diseases
- Water deeply during hot, dry spells
- Maintain mulch rings to protect the root zone from compaction
A proactive care schedule, led by certified arborists, reduces long-term risks and improves the health of your entire landscape.
Don’t Wait—Get Expert Help for Your Oak Trees Today
Proper fertilization isn’t a luxury—it’s essential to preserving the health, safety, and beauty of your oak trees. Whether you're looking to enhance growth, address signs of decline, or maintain historic trees in Savannah’s challenging climate, Kolcun Tree Care is here to help.
Submit an inquiry through our contact page, or give us a call at 843-757-8050 to schedule a tree evaluation or fertilization service.
Trust our team to provide the expert care your trees need—root to canopy.