Is the tree your trying to get going a fig or a wallnut? If it's old and not fruiting, dig a trench a foot deep, 3 feet away from the trunk, and dig that around one half of the tree, leave it two years, and do the other side, and watch it go. My aunt had one in her garden, not doing well, we did this to it, and bingo, it was off.
Turns out it is a green gauge. Interesting tip
It inspires the tree to make newer younger roots, and aids compaction if its been walked round for years, also gives you the chance to chuck in some blood fish and bone when you back fill.