Microelements are crucial for the growth and development of trees, and they are involved in various physiological and biochemical processes such as tree respiration, photosynthesis, nutrient absorption, and hormone signal transduction. At present, there are 16 element types related to the growth of trees, among which there are eight types of trace elements. Microelements are closely related to tree nutrient element concentration and tree growth and yield. This is also the theoretical basis for tree fertilization and nutritional diagnosis.The research status of the function of microelements in trees, the relationship between microelements and tree growth, stand types, soil, pests and diseases, the molecular mechanism of absorption and transport of microelements in trees, nutrition diagnosis and other aspects were reviewed, and recommendations were made on current problems and future research. There are few varieties and yields for micro-fertilizers available for trees in China and there is still a gap when compared with other countries. For example, micro-fertilizer production and quality standards have not been organized, and the products have not reached a level of diversification. There are synergistic or antagonistic effects among the different microelements. Although soil microelement distribution regulations are not fully understood in the context of current production and there is a lack of focus on tree fertilization, the development of ecological agriculture and forestry in China has already started. In-depth research was undertaken on the nutritional diagnosis technology of trees, the research and utilization of micro-fertilizers, efficient nutrient management, and the cultivation of fast-growing and high-yield forests in China. Microbial fertilizers can be used in forest fertilization to slow down the trend in land nutrition decline. Meanwhile, it is important to carry out tree species selection, soil improvement, and strengthen management to improve the overall efficiency of forest management.