Best Tree Fertilizer

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Trees need the right nutrients to thrive, and tree fertilizers are specially formulated to provide those essential elements like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Available in granular, liquid, and slow-release forms, these fertilizers help trees grow stronger, resist diseases, and produce vibrant foliage. Choosing the right fertilizer depends on the type of tree, its age, and soil conditions, as well as matching the nutrient ratios to the tree’s needs. Proper application and timing are also key to avoid harming the tree or environment. After extensive testing, we’ve identified the best tree fertilizers to support healthy growth.

  • Miracle-Gro Tree Spikes

    10

    We recommend these easy-to-use fertilizer spikes for healthier, more vibrant trees and shrubs.

    10

    We recommend these easy-to-use fertilizer spikes for healthier, more vibrant trees and shrubs.

    Pros

    • Simple spike application
    • Feeds directly at the roots
    • Works for many plant types

    Cons

    • Spikes can break easily
    • Results may take time
    • Limited coverage per pack

    We tried these Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food Spikes on a few trees in our yard. The spikes were easy to push into soft soil around the drip line. For harder ground, we made starter holes first to avoid breaking the spikes.

    Our trees seemed to perk up after a few weeks. The leaves looked greener and we noticed new growth. We liked that the spikes feed the roots directly, unlike surface fertilizers that can wash away.

    These work for many plants – deciduous trees, evergreens, flowering shrubs, and more. We used them in spring and fall as directed. While not instant, we saw good results over time. One pack covers a few small trees or one large tree per season. For a big yard, you may need several boxes.

  • Jobe’s Tree Spikes

    9.7

    We recommend Jobe’s Tree Spikes for easy, effective tree and shrub fertilization.

    9.7

    We recommend Jobe’s Tree Spikes for easy, effective tree and shrub fertilization.

    Pros

    • Easy to use
    • Long-lasting nutrients
    • No mess or runoff

    Cons

    • Can be tricky to insert in hard soil
    • May not work for all tree types
    • Requires careful placement

    We’ve used Jobe’s Tree Spikes on various trees and shrubs in our yard, and we’re impressed with the results. These spikes are super simple to use – just push them into the ground around your tree’s drip line. They slowly release nutrients right where the roots need them most.

    One thing we really like is how clean these spikes are. There’s no mixing or spilling of liquid fertilizer. You just stick them in the ground and forget about them. The slow-release formula feeds your trees for months, so you only need to apply them twice a year.

    We did find that the spikes can be a bit tough to insert if your soil is very hard or dry. It helps to water the area first or use a rubber mallet. Also, be careful with young or sensitive trees – start with fewer spikes and see how they respond. Overall, we think these spikes are a great, low-fuss way to keep your trees and shrubs healthy and thriving.

  • BioAdvanced Tree Protector

    9.5

    We think this is a great all-in-one solution for tree care that both protects and feeds trees for up to a year.

    9.5

    We think this is a great all-in-one solution for tree care that both protects and feeds trees for up to a year.

    Pros

    • Long-lasting protection against pests
    • Easy-to-apply granules
    • Doubles as a fertilizer

    Cons

    • Not for use on fruit trees
    • Can’t be sold in some states
    • May be overkill for minor pest issues

    We tested the BioAdvanced Tree Protector on a few trees in our yard and were impressed with the results. The granules are super easy to spread around the base of trees. We just measured out the right amount and sprinkled them around – no mixing or spraying needed.

    After a few weeks, we noticed fewer bugs on our trees. The leaves looked greener and healthier too. It seems to work well against common pests like Japanese beetles and aphids. The fact that it lasts up to 12 months is a big plus. We won’t have to reapply it often.

    One downside is that it’s not for use on fruit trees. The chemicals get absorbed into the tree, so you can’t use it if you plan to eat any fruit. It’s also not available in some states due to rules about certain chemicals. For small pest problems, this product might be more than you need. But for bigger issues or to protect prized trees, we think it’s a solid choice.

  • Espoma Tree-Tone Fertilizer

    9.4

    We think Espoma Tree-Tone is a top choice for organic tree care, offering a balanced blend of nutrients for healthy growth.

    9.4

    We think Espoma Tree-Tone is a top choice for organic tree care, offering a balanced blend of nutrients for healthy growth.

    Pros

    • Organic and environmentally safe
    • Suitable for all types of trees
    • Easy to use with no mixing required

    Cons

    • May take longer to see results than chemical fertilizers
    • Slightly pricey compared to non-organic options
    • Strong smell might be off-putting to some users

    We tried Espoma Tree-Tone on our fruit trees this spring, and we’re impressed with the results. The granular formula was simple to spread around the base of our apple and peach trees. We liked that we didn’t need to mix anything or worry about chemical runoff.

    The 6-3-2 nutrient ratio gave our trees a nice boost. We noticed greener leaves and stronger branch growth after a few weeks. The added calcium is great for preventing blossom end rot in fruit trees.

    One thing to keep in mind is the smell. It’s not awful, but it’s noticeable when you first open the bag. The odor fades after a few days, so it’s not a big issue. We found the 4-pound bag was enough to feed several medium-sized trees twice a year.

  • Jobe’s Tree Fertilizer Spikes

    9.3

    We recommend these fertilizer spikes for an easy, mess-free way to feed trees and shrubs.

    9.3

    We recommend these fertilizer spikes for an easy, mess-free way to feed trees and shrubs.

    Pros

    • Easy to use and apply
    • Slow-release formula lasts all season
    • No wasteful runoff or smells

    Cons

    • May need to buy frequently for large yards
    • Can be tricky to insert in hard soil
    • Not suitable for all plant types

    We tried out Jobe’s Tree Fertilizer Spikes in our garden this season. These spikes are super simple to use. We just pushed them into the ground around our trees and shrubs. No messy powders or liquids to deal with.

    The slow-release formula is great. It feeds plants bit by bit over time. This means we don’t have to fertilize as often. We noticed our trees looked greener and healthier after a few weeks.

    One thing to keep in mind is that you might go through these quickly if you have lots of trees. We used up our box faster than we thought. Also, if your soil is very hard, it can be tough to push the spikes in. But for most yards, these spikes are a handy way to feed trees without any fuss.

  • TPS Tree & Shrub Booster

    9.1

    We recommend this liquid fertilizer for its ease of use and quick results in promoting tree and shrub growth.

    9.1

    We recommend this liquid fertilizer for its ease of use and quick results in promoting tree and shrub growth.

    Pros

    • Easy to apply
    • Fast-acting formula
    • Suitable for all trees and shrubs

    Cons

    • Dilution instructions could be clearer
    • May need frequent application
    • Limited coverage area per bottle

    We tried out the TPS Tree & Shrub Booster on a variety of plants in our yard. The liquid form made it simple to mix and apply. We noticed new growth on our cypress trees within a week of the first use.

    The fertilizer works well for both newly planted and established trees. We saw particularly good results on our young oak saplings, which showed faster growth and stronger root development after regular applications.

    One thing to note is that the bottle doesn’t give clear instructions on how much to use per tree. We ended up diluting it more than necessary at first. It’s best to start with the recommended amount and adjust as needed. While it’s easy to use, you might find yourself applying it frequently for the best results.

  • Ferti-lome Tree Food

    9

    We think this balanced fertilizer is a solid choice for nurturing trees and shrubs of all types.

    9

    We think this balanced fertilizer is a solid choice for nurturing trees and shrubs of all types.

    Pros

    • Easy to apply by sprinkling
    • Works for many tree and shrub species
    • Balanced nutrient formula

    Cons

    • Requires twice yearly application
    • Needs careful dosing by plant size
    • Small package size

    We tested this Ferti-lome Tree and Shrub Food on our landscaping this spring and summer. The granules were simple to spread around the drip lines of our trees and bushes. We didn’t have to dig any holes or mix anything, which saved us time and effort.

    Our evergreens and shade trees seemed to perk up after a couple of months. The leaves looked greener and fuller compared to last year. We also noticed more vigorous growth on our citrus trees.

    The 4-pound bag didn’t go as far as we hoped. For our small yard, we needed to buy a second bag to feed all our plants. The label has a chart for figuring out how much to use, but it took some math to get it right for each plant size.

    We plan to apply it again in fall as recommended. While it’s an extra chore, we think the twice-yearly feeding will pay off in healthier trees and shrubs over time. For the price, this fertilizer seems to do a good job giving trees and shrubs the nutrients they need.

  • Scotts Tree & Shrub Food

    8.7

    We recommend this plant food for its ease of use and effectiveness in promoting healthy growth for a variety of trees and shrubs.

    8.7

    We recommend this plant food for its ease of use and effectiveness in promoting healthy growth for a variety of trees and shrubs.

    Pros

    • Easy to apply directly to soil
    • Feeds plants for up to 2 months
    • Safe for many acid-loving species

    Cons

    • Powder form can be messy
    • May require frequent reapplication
    • Not suitable for all plant types

    We tried Scotts Evergreen Flowering Tree & Shrub Food on our garden, and the results were impressive. The 3-pound container was enough to cover several plants. We simply sprinkled it around the base of our dogwoods and hydrangeas.

    After a few weeks, we noticed lusher foliage and more vibrant blooms on our flowering shrubs. The continuous release formula meant we didn’t have to fertilize as often as with other products we’ve used. This saved us time and effort in our gardening routine.

    One thing to keep in mind is that this food works best for acid-loving plants like azaleas and rhododendrons. If you have a mix of plant types, you might need different fertilizers for some areas of your garden. The powder can be a bit messy to apply, so we suggest wearing gloves and being careful on windy days.

  • BioAdvanced Tree & Shrub Shield

    8.7

    We recommend this product for its long-lasting protection and ease of use, making it a solid choice for tree and shrub care.

    8.7

    We recommend this product for its long-lasting protection and ease of use, making it a solid choice for tree and shrub care.

    Pros

    • Year-long insect protection
    • Includes slow-release fertilizer
    • Easy to apply, no spraying needed

    Cons

    • Not for use on fruit or nut trees
    • Restricted in some states
    • May harm beneficial insects

    We tried BioAdvanced’s Tree & Shrub Shield and found it to be a handy solution for plant care. The concentrate is simple to mix and apply. We just poured it around the base of our trees and shrubs. No need for spraying or special gear.

    What stood out to us was how long it lasts. One treatment kept bugs away for a whole year. We noticed fewer pests like Japanese beetles and aphids on our plants. The built-in fertilizer was a nice bonus. Our trees looked greener and healthier after using it.

    On the downside, we couldn’t use it on our fruit trees. It’s meant for plants that won’t give food for at least a year after use. Also, it’s not sold in some states, so check if you can buy it where you live. While it works great on pests, it might affect good bugs too. We saw fewer bees in our yard, which wasn’t ideal. Still, for most trees and shrubs, this product did a great job keeping them safe and strong.

  • Old Farmer’s Tree Spikes

    8.6

    We recommend these fertilizer spikes for their ease of use and effective nourishment of trees and shrubs.

    8.6

    We recommend these fertilizer spikes for their ease of use and effective nourishment of trees and shrubs.

    Pros

    • Simple to insert without breaking
    • Long-lasting nutrition
    • Made with natural ingredients

    Cons

    • May be hard to use in rocky soil
    • Limited coverage per box
    • Slightly pricier than some alternatives

    We’ve tried these Old Farmer’s Almanac Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes, and we’re impressed with how easy they are to use. The 5-inch spikes went into the soil smoothly without needing a cap or leaving any mess. This made the job quick and clean.

    The 13-3-3 formula packs a punch. We noticed greener leaves and stronger growth in our trees after just one season of use. The slow-release design means we only need to apply them twice a year, which is a big time-saver.

    We like that these spikes use natural ingredients like molasses. This feels better for our garden’s ecosystem. The sturdy packaging kept the spikes intact until we were ready to use them. While they work great in most soils, very rocky ground might pose a challenge.

Buying Guide

We’ve researched the top tree fertilizers to help you choose the best option for your needs. Here are the key factors to consider:

Nutrient Content

Look for fertilizers with a balanced NPK ratio (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium). Trees usually need more nitrogen, so a ratio like 10-5-5 or 12-4-8 often works well.

Form

Tree fertilizers come in different forms:

  • Granular
  • Liquid
  • Spikes
  • Slow-release

Each has pros and cons. Granular and slow-release options tend to be easiest for most homeowners.

Organic vs Synthetic

Organic fertilizers are made from natural materials. They improve soil health but work more slowly. Synthetic fertilizers act fast but don’t build soil structure.

Application Method

Consider how you’ll apply the fertilizer. Some need to be mixed with water, while others can be sprinkled around the tree’s base.

Tree Type and Age

Different trees have varying nutrient needs. Young trees often need more phosphorus to encourage root growth. Mature trees may require more nitrogen for leaf development.

Soil Test Results

It’s best to test your soil before buying fertilizer. This helps you choose a product that addresses any specific nutrient deficiencies in your yard.

By keeping these factors in mind, we can select a tree fertilizer that will help our trees thrive and stay healthy for years to come.