We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Tree Fertilizers 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes, For Deciduous, Flowering and Evergreen Trees, 12 Spikes

Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes are designed to enhance the health and appearance of trees and shrubs in your garden. With an easy application method, these spikes deliver essential nutrients directly to the roots, which is a significant advantage for ensuring effective nutrient uptake. They cater to a variety of trees, including deciduous, flowering, and evergreens, making them versatile for different types of landscaping. The simplicity of application—just place them around the tree's drip line in spring and fall—makes it user-friendly, even for gardening novices.

As for the type of fertilizer, these spikes are synthetic, meaning they can provide a quick nutrient boost, but some gardeners prefer organic options for sustainability and soil health. One notable detail is the frequency of application—recommending twice a year is convenient, but some users may wish for a product that offers longer-lasting benefits. Also, the spikes are suitable for acid-loving plants, but users should ensure their soil pH matches the needs of the specific plants they are growing to avoid nutrient lockout.

Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes are an excellent choice for gardeners seeking an easy and effective way to nourish their trees and shrubs. They provide a practical solution for promoting lush foliage and vibrant colors.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Application Frequency
Application is straightforward—just hammer the stakes around the tree's drip line.
#2

BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub, Concentrate, 64 Oz

BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Concentrate is designed primarily for those looking to enhance the health of their trees and shrubs while also tackling pest problems. The strength of this product lies in its dual functionality as both a fertilizer and an insecticide. With a slow-release formula, it nourishes plants over time, which is beneficial for long-term plant health. The product's systemic protection ensures that it works from the roots up, making it effective against a variety of pests like Japanese Beetles and Aphids. Users appreciate the convenience of just one annual application, which simplifies the care routine for busy gardeners.

Potential buyers should consider that the specific N-P-K ratio isn't mentioned, which may be important for those wanting to match specific nutrient needs for their trees or shrubs. Compatibility with different soil pH levels is also unspecified, which could affect how well it performs in various soil conditions.

This product is an excellent option for those seeking a quick and effective solution for pest control and plant health in their trees and shrubs. However, if you prioritize organic solutions or have specific nutrient requirements, you may need to look at other products.

#3

Jobe’s Slow Release Tree and Shrub Fertilizer Spikes, Easy Plant Care for Oak, Maple, Dogwood, Boxwood, and Many More Acid Loving Trees and Shrubs, 15 Count

Jobe’s Slow Release Tree and Shrub Fertilizer Spikes are an excellent choice for maintaining acid-loving trees and shrubs like oak, maple, dogwood, and boxwood. The key feature of these spikes is their 16-4-4 NPK ratio, which ensures a balanced provision of nutrients directly to the roots. This promotes root development, plant growth, and soil conditioning without the risk of over-fertilizing, thanks to the pre-measured spikes that minimize waste and mess.

These spikes are particularly user-friendly, requiring application only twice a year, making them a low-maintenance option for garden enthusiasts. Moreover, their design helps to avoid wasteful runoff and unpleasant odors, making them an environmentally friendly choice. However, it's important to note that while these spikes are convenient, their effectiveness is optimized for acid-loving plants, so they may not be suitable for all tree types. Additionally, the spikes' physical nature means they need to be placed correctly to ensure even nutrient distribution.

For anyone looking for an easy-to-use, effective fertilizer for their acid-loving trees and shrubs, Jobe’s spikes could be a great fit.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Type of Fertilizer
Jobe's Fertilizer Spikes are a game-changer for nourishing and maintaining the health of evergreen trees like cypress, juniper, and magnolia.
Micronutrients
Tailored nutrient blend meets the specific needs of evergreen trees, enhancing root development, nutrient uptake, and overall tree health.
Application Frequency
The long-lasting effects of the spikes reduce the need for frequent applications, saving both time and money while being environmentally friendly.

Buying Guide for the Best Tree Fertilizers

Choosing the right tree fertilizer is crucial for ensuring the healthy growth and development of your trees. Fertilizers provide essential nutrients that trees need to thrive, and selecting the right one can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your trees. When picking a tree fertilizer, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you are providing the best possible care for your trees.
N-P-K RatioThe N-P-K ratio represents the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the fertilizer. These are the primary nutrients that trees need. Nitrogen promotes leaf and stem growth, phosphorus supports root development and flowering, and potassium enhances overall health and disease resistance. For young trees, a higher nitrogen content (e.g., 10-10-10) is beneficial for growth. For mature trees, a balanced or lower nitrogen ratio (e.g., 5-10-10) is better to support root and fruit development. Choose the N-P-K ratio based on the age and type of tree you are fertilizing.
Type of FertilizerFertilizers come in various forms, including granular, liquid, and spikes. Granular fertilizers are easy to apply and provide a slow release of nutrients over time, making them ideal for long-term feeding. Liquid fertilizers offer quick nutrient absorption and are suitable for immediate nutrient needs. Fertilizer spikes are convenient and provide a steady release of nutrients directly to the root zone. Consider the ease of application and the specific needs of your trees when choosing the type of fertilizer.
Organic vs. SyntheticOrganic fertilizers are made from natural materials and release nutrients slowly, improving soil health over time. They are environmentally friendly and safe for use around children and pets. Synthetic fertilizers are chemically manufactured and provide a quick release of nutrients, which can be beneficial for immediate results. However, they may not improve soil health in the long term. If you prefer a more sustainable approach, opt for organic fertilizers. If you need rapid results, synthetic fertilizers may be more suitable.
MicronutrientsIn addition to the primary nutrients (N-P-K), trees also require micronutrients such as iron, manganese, zinc, and copper for optimal growth. These micronutrients are often included in fertilizers in small amounts. Check the fertilizer label to ensure it contains the necessary micronutrients, especially if your soil is deficient in any of them. If your trees show signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, a fertilizer with added micronutrients can help address these issues.
Application FrequencyDifferent fertilizers have varying application frequencies, ranging from once a year to several times a season. Slow-release fertilizers typically require less frequent applications, while liquid fertilizers may need to be applied more often. Consider your schedule and the level of maintenance you are willing to commit to when choosing a fertilizer. If you prefer low-maintenance care, opt for a slow-release fertilizer that requires fewer applications.
Soil pH CompatibilitySoil pH affects nutrient availability to trees. Some fertilizers are formulated to work best within specific pH ranges. Test your soil pH before selecting a fertilizer to ensure compatibility. Most trees prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). If your soil pH is outside this range, choose a fertilizer that can help adjust the pH or consider amending the soil to achieve the desired pH level.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now