Although current stand culture techniques utilize little of the available nutrient cycling technology because of economic constraints, the types of cultural practices used can influence significanlty the availability of nutrients for tree growth. New technologies are being developed that will be useful in guiding cultural practices in the future when better financial resources allow intensive culture. This paper addresses what is known about nutrient cycling in Rocky Mountain forest and how fertilization can influence the availability of nutrients. Sources of natural fertilizer are discussed, with emphasis on nutrient cycling. Various methods of applying different types of fertilizers are examined in terms of their effect on soil pH and nutrient availability. Two models - NUTROSS and PORCYTE-10 - that evaluate the effects of nutrients and nutrient loss on growth are presented. Fertilizer studies in Sweden and fertilizing on demand are discussed.