Under what condition may a tree not respond immediately to fertilizer application?

A tree's response to fertilizer is closely linked to its growth cycle. When a tree is not actively growing, it is in a state of dormancy, which can occur during the colder months or when environmental conditions are not conducive to growth. During these periods, the tree's metabolic processes slow down significantly, and it is less capable of utilizing nutrients provided by fertilizers. Consequently, even if a tree receives the appropriate fertilizer, without active growth, it may not absorb or benefit from the nutrients immediately.

In contrast, other conditions, such as using outdated fertilizer, soil acidity, or improper application techniques, can impact how well nutrients are available to the tree or how effectively they are utilized, but they don't strictly prevent the tree from responding once it resumes active growth. Understanding this dynamic helps in applying fertilizers at the right time, ensuring that nutrients are available for when the tree can utilize them effectively.