Growth Regulators

Tree Communications:

A tree communicates internally by the movement of chemicals (a human communicates internally by electromagnetic signals). For instance, when the crown of a tree is proportionately larger than the root mass, the tree will send a chemical (called auxin) from the leaves to the roots. This chemical carries a signal which causes the plant to accelerate its root production. It is the same with bud opening, leaf cell elongation, wood formation and so on – different chemicals carry different signals. All these chemicals are called growth regulators.

Growth regulators are proven effective in restoring a tree in decline to good health.

Growth regulators can be used to help a tree be healthier and live longer.

Using Growth Regulators:

• When your tree has outgrown its space
• When you want your tree to be more dense
• When limbs and branches are breaking
• When you want to eliminate fruit or seed production
• When a tree is suffering from stress

The Tree Doctor can apply a growth regulator to achieve the desired effect.

Slowing Tree Growth:

• Our most commonly used growth regulator is Cambistat
• Cambistat (paclobutrizol) can be injected into the soil to slow tree growth dramatically
• The material is injected into the soil around the trunk of the tree usually in early spring
• Tree resources are diverted from twig and leaf growth to root production and thickening of cell walls
• Result is (a) increased drought tolerance, (b) increased resistance to insect and disease attacks
• Tree should still be fertilized