Vitamins for Trees

Vitamin B-1

• Vitamin B-1, also called thiamine, is manufactured by plants to aid in root development. According to Dr. Chalker-Scott from Washington State University several products exist advertising the positive effects of vitamin B-1 on the roots of transplanted plants and trees. Purportedly, applying B-1 to roots injured during transplanting stimulates root growth. This is a myth, states Dr. Chalker-Scott. Since plants manufacture their own B-1, adding more to the roots is unnecessary and won't help injured roots recover. Instead, she recommends adding plant growth regulators, such as indole butyric acid, naphthylacetic acid or paclobutrazol in conjunction with nitrogen.

Vitamin C and Other Vitamin

• Much like B-1, plants produce their own vitamin C and don't require additional amounts. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C is capable of reducing damage done by harmful free radicals, such as ozone. Free radicals in the environment cause the decay of cells and can cause plant damage. According to the USDA's Agricultural Research Service, evidence suggest plants manufacture vitamin C to protect themselves from pollutants. It notes that all plants produce vitamin C at different levels, and some use it more effectively than others. The goal of scientists is to engineer plants that manufacture and use vitamin C more efficiently and are more tolerant of ozone.

Nutrients Trees Require

• Trees manufacture their own vitamins and don't need them added by gardeners. But they can't manufacture everything they need and must absorb some nutrients from the soil. There are two groups of nutrients trees need for proper growth: macronutrients and micronutrients. Macronutrients are needed in large quantities and include, nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium and sulfur. Micronutrients are needed in smaller quantities and include, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, chlorine and molybdenum.

Fertilizing Trees

• Fertilizing your tree is a good way to ensure that it has all the nutrients needed to reach its full potential. Soil tests are performed by many university extensions and can tell you exactly which nutrients your soil has, which ones it needs and what your soil pH is. This information can help your make the right choice regarding fertilizer and its application. In general, the best time to apply fertilizer is early spring, just before the first flush of growth. Nitrogen fertilizers promote green, leafy growth, while phosphorus promotes flowering. If you have a flowering tree, use a fertilizer that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.