CATS Tree Nutrition and Fertilization 2

Question 1

What is the best time of year to apply fertilizer to deciduous trees in the Albuquerque area to maximize uptake?

Accepted Answer

Late fall after leaf drop or early spring before bud break

Answer

Late fall or early spring is optimal because trees are actively storing or mobilizing nutrients, and cooler temperatures reduce volatilization and runoff losses.

Question 2

A soil test in an Albuquerque urban landscape reveals pH of 8.2. What amendment would an arborist most likely recommend to improve micronutrient availability?

Accepted Answer

Elemental sulfur

Answer

Elemental sulfur acidifies alkaline soils by being oxidized to sulfuric acid by soil bacteria, lowering pH and improving micronutrient availability.

Question 3

Which nutrient is classified as a secondary macronutrient and plays a critical role in cell wall structure and root tip development?

Accepted Answer

Calcium

Answer

Calcium is a secondary macronutrient essential for cell wall structure and meristematic (growing) tissue development, including root tips.

Question 4

When conducting a foliar nutrient spray for iron deficiency in Albuquerque, which iron chelate formulation performs best in high-pH soils?

Accepted Answer

FeEDDHA

Answer

FeEDDHA is the most effective iron chelate in high-pH soils (above 7.5) because it remains stable and plant-available at alkaline pH levels.

Question 5

What does the N-P-K ratio on a fertilizer label represent?

Accepted Answer

Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium percentages by weight

Answer

The N-P-K ratio shows the percentage by weight of nitrogen (N), phosphate (P₂O₅), and potash (K₂O) in the fertilizer formulation.

(CATS) Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Practice Test

(CATS) Certified Arborist Tree Service of Albuquerque Practice Test

CATS Tree Nutrition and Fertilization 2