Tree Root Feeding in Winter?

[Robert Olin]

Here in Western Washington we have mild winters. I have noticed that laurel
that I put in larger pots in the fall, will have filled out the pot, with
roots, by spring - so I conclude that the roots grow through the winter.

I have just transplanted some 15' tall Leyland Cypress and would like the
roots to recover by next summer. I lost some from a spring transplanting,
last summer, and conclude that the survival chances are far better when done
in November, as they have the whole winter to grow new roots. Question:

What can I feed the roots, during the winter that might help them along? B1
stimulator or is that not to be done in the late fall? I assume that
nitrogen is not to be given. How about phosphorous?

Thanks,
RO

[Steveo]

"Robert Olin" > wrote:
> Here in Western Washington we have mild winters. I have noticed that
> laurel that I put in larger pots in the fall, will have filled out the
> pot, with roots, by spring - so I conclude that the roots grow through
> the winter.
>
> I have just transplanted some 15' tall Leyland Cypress and would like the
> roots to recover by next summer. I lost some from a spring
> transplanting, last summer, and conclude that the survival chances are
> far better when done in November, as they have the whole winter to grow
> new roots. Question:
>
> What can I feed the roots, during the winter that might help them along?
> B1 stimulator or is that not to be done in the late fall? I assume that
> nitrogen is not to be given. How about phosphorous?
>
> Thanks,
> RO
>
I'd be careful feeding them anything. It sounds like root development
hasn't been a problem so far. A small amount of bone meal, maybe.

As you've mentioned, don't transplant them in the spring.