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 Jobe's 01611 Evergreen Tree Fertilizer Spikes come in six packages, each containing 15 spikes, providing a convenient option for ongoing tree care. With an N-P-K ratio of 13-3-4, these spikes deliver a high amount of nitrogen to promote strong foliage growth, moderate phosphorus for root development, and potassium for overall health.

The fertilizer is provided in stick form, making it easy to apply by inserting the spikes into the soil near tree roots. This method offers a slow, steady release of nutrients throughout the year, reducing the need for frequent applications. These spikes are best suited for medium coverage areas and are especially beneficial for evergreen trees that require a consistent nutrient supply across multiple seasons.

For gardeners seeking simple, low-effort feeding to support tree health throughout the year, Jobe's fertilizer spikes offer a practical solution with reliable nutrient delivery. However, those looking for fully organic fertilizers or specific micronutrients like iron or magnesium might consider alternative options, as this product is a synthetic formulation designed for targeted feeding.

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.