(NewsUSA) - In nature, organic materials enrich the soil. But urban and suburban plants are often forced to live in nutrient-poor, compacted soil. No wonder "green thumbs" use fertilizers to bolster the health of trees and shrubs.

As more people adopt organic lifestyles, homeowners want greener, that is, more eco-friendly landscapes, without sacrificing good looks.

The arborists at Bartlett Tree Experts often work with homeowners to create attractive, Earth-friendly landscapes rife with healthy trees and shrubs. The arborists offer the following advice:

- Consider "Good" Bugs. Beneficial insects like ladybugs and praying mantis feed on damaging pests like aphids. Carefully introducing insect predators can protect trees and shrubs naturally and effectively.

- Choose Your Plants with the Earth in Mind. Planting a diversity of species will encourage beneficial insects and discourage pest outbreaks.

Consult a certified arborist who can recommend landscape species that resist certain pests and other problems. For example, homeowners in deer-infested areas should consider plants that deer would rather not munch, like western red cedar, not a tasty arborvitae.

- Go Organic. Organic mulches will improve soil health. Other organic-based treatements, like horticultural oils, will suppress pests. In hiring a professional arborist, homeowners can ensure that these treatments are used correctly.

- Use Safe Products. Fertilizers derived from organic sources can promote soil health. One fertilizer, Boost Natural from Bartlett Tree Experts, is the only organic fertilizer that meets industry standards for supplying nutrients in a single application.

Laboratory tests prove Boost's effectiveness. It has been shown to work on many different tree and shrub species. The fertilizer releases nutrients slowly over time, replicating nature's nutrient-recycling processes. Boost's slow release means longer-lasting results.

Boost uses all natural, all organic-based ingredients and does not contain phosphorus, making it safe for use by water sources where phosphate runoff may be a concern. Unlike fertilizers that contain concentrated chemicals, Boost will not burn or yellow leaves.

To learn more, visit www.bartlett.com.