[College of ACES] [University of Illinois] [Illinois CES]

Re: alkaline-induced iron chlorosis

jrick@rainbowtreecare.com
Mon, 7 Apr 1997 21:12:46 -0500

Have you checked the Mycorrhizae colonization taking place with your trees?

We have been working with some chelated products, but are more interested in resolving the issue regarding the alkaline soils. Here in Minnesota, our pH may range from 7.4 to 8.0+. Makes you wonder how these trees survive in the landscape, when they desire 5.5 to 6.5!

We have the added problem of homeowners overwatering with city water in the 8.0 to 9.0 range.

We have used elemental sulfur and iron sulfate, with very slow results because of our soils' high buffering capacity. We have toyed with the thought of aluminum sulfate.

We would like to also use Mycorrhizal inoculations, but first need to address the pH issues.

Any other ideas?