10 Best Tree Fertilizers 2026 in the United States

This 10-10-10 slow-release granular fertilizer offers a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making it a versatile choice for a variety of trees like fruit trees, evergreens, oaks, and shrubs. Its slow-release formula feeds plants steadily for up to eight weeks, reducing how often you need to apply it—usually twice per growing season for gardens and three times annually for trees and shrubs. This can save effort while supporting healthy root development, vibrant leaves, and overall plant resilience.

The fertilizer granules are easy to spread evenly across outdoor soil, which helps ensure good nutrient absorption. It also contains quick-release nitrogen for a fast growth boost alongside the slow feeding effect. One downside is it’s a synthetic product, so if you prefer organic options, this wouldn’t fit that preference. The 10-10-10 ratio is well-rounded but may not be ideal if your trees need targeted nutrients at certain growth stages.

This fertilizer performs well for general tree and garden feeding with minimal fuss, especially if you want a balanced nutrient supply and less frequent application. However, organic gardeners or those needing special soil adjustments might want to look for products with added micronutrients or pH-specific formulations.

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.

The BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Fertilizer is a slow-release, granule-based product designed to nourish trees and shrubs while protecting them from a range of common insect pests like Japanese Beetles and Aphids. It provides a year-long feeding and insect control with just one application, which is ideal for users seeking low-maintenance care.

This product uses a synthetic active ingredient (Imidacloprid) for pest control, making it more targeted against insects but less suitable for those looking strictly for organic options. It’s designed for use on both outdoor and container plants and is likely best suited for standard garden soils.

The combination of fertilizer and insecticide in one granule simplifies application, although it may not fit gardeners who prefer to treat nutrients and pests separately. It offers a convenient solution to feed and protect trees and shrubs with minimal effort, especially when insect problems are a concern.