10 Best Fertilizer For Trees And Shrubs 2025 in the United States

Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes are designed to provide essential nutrition to your trees and shrubs. These spikes are particularly user-friendly, as they are inserted directly into the ground, thus delivering nutrients directly to the roots. This makes the application process straightforward and minimizes mess, which is a significant advantage for those who prefer low-maintenance gardening solutions.

The spikes are suitable for a wide variety of trees and shrubs, including deciduous, flowering, and evergreen types, which adds to their versatility. Additionally, they are formulated to be used twice a year, in the spring and fall, aligning well with seasonal growth cycles for optimal effectiveness. This can help ensure your plants look vibrant throughout the year with minimal effort on your part.

On the downside, the number of spikes required per tree can add up, especially for larger trees with a 12-foot drip line diameter, potentially making it an expensive option for those with multiple large trees. Another consideration is that these spikes are synthetic, which might not appeal to those who prefer organic gardening methods.

The BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed offers a dual function by combining slow-release fertilizer with insect and pest protection. This unique combination could be particularly beneficial for those looking to maintain the health of their trees and shrubs while keeping pests at bay. Its granular form makes it straightforward to apply, and it works systemically from the roots to the leaves.

The product also offers long-lasting effects, reportedly protecting against insects for up to a year with just one application. This could be a significant time-saver for busy gardeners. However, potential users should note that it is not suitable for use in certain states and counties. Another possible downside is that, while it does provide essential nutrients, it may not contain as wide a range of micronutrients as some other fertilizers.

Additionally, it is a synthetic product, which may not appeal to those seeking organic options.

Espoma Organic Holly-Tone is a natural, organic fertilizer specially formulated for acid-loving plants such as hollies, azaleas, rhododendrons, and hydrangeas. Its N-P-K ratio of 4-3-4 provides balanced nutrients with a slight emphasis on nitrogen and potassium, supporting healthy foliage and root development. Being organic, it breaks down slowly, offering a steady nutrient supply without risk of burning plants, making it safe for the environment and ideal for organic gardening.

The inclusion of 5% sulfur helps maintain soil acidity, which is important for plants that thrive in acidic soils. The granulated form is easy to apply around the plant’s drip line in spring and fall, with no mixing required—just water it in. While it covers a medium area, it may require reapplication each season since it releases nutrients gradually rather than all at once.

It is not a quick fix if your plants need fast nutrient boosts, but it is great for long-term soil health and steady growth. For gardeners who grow acid-loving plants and prefer organic options, Holly-Tone offers a reliable and safe fertilizer choice.