10 Best Shrub Fertilizers to Keep Your Landscape Thriving

I’ve tested numerous fertilizers to help you achieve thriving shrubs, and my top recommendations include Miracle-Gro Shake N Feed for acid-loving plants, BioAdvanced Protect and Feed for year-long pest protection, and liquid options like HiThrive for fast nutrient delivery. Each offers unique benefits: granular formulas provide slow-release nutrition, spikes offer convenient application, and water-soluble varieties deliver quick results. Consider your shrubs’ specific needs, application preferences, and NPK ratios when selecting. Below, I’ll break down each option’s strengths to guide your decision.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 12th September 2025 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Spikes (15-5-10) offer convenient twice-yearly applications with high user ratings from 21,000+ reviews.
• BioAdvanced Protect and Feed provides 12 months of fertilization plus systemic insect protection in one application.
• Ironite Plus delivers balanced 12-10-10 nutrition with 2% iron content for vibrant foliage and healthy growth.
• HiThrive Liquid Fertilizer creates 16 gallons of solution and shows noticeable plant improvements with regular use.
• GreenView Multi-Purpose Fertilizer offers versatile 10-10-10 formula in 33-pound bags for extensive landscape coverage.

Miracle-Gro Shake N Feed Plant Food for Flowering Trees and Shrubs (8 lbs)

Miracle-Gro Shake N Feed Plant Food stands out as the ideal choice for gardeners who want to nourish acid-loving flowering trees and shrubs with minimal effort. This 8-pound formula combines natural ingredients like kelp, earthworm castings, bone meal, and feather meal to promote robust plant health. You’ll appreciate how it works for both in-ground and container plantings, delivering continuous nutrition for up to three months. Simply apply the granules evenly within your plant’s branch spread, avoiding direct contact with trunks or foliage, then lightly work into soil and water thoroughly. Reapplying every three months guarantees deep green foliage and vibrant, colorful blooms throughout the growing season.

Best For: Gardeners who want to nourish acid-loving flowering trees and shrubs with minimal effort while promoting robust plant health and vibrant blooms.

Pros:

• Contains natural ingredients like kelp, earthworm castings, bone meal, and feather meal for improved plant health
• Provides continuous nutrition for up to 3 months with easy application
• Works for both in-ground and container plantings

Cons:

• Specifically formulated for acid-loving plants, limiting versatility for other plant types
• Requires reapplication every 3 months for optimal results
• Must avoid direct contact with trunks or foliage during application

BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed Granules (10 lb)

BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed Granules consistently deliver the ideal solution for gardeners who want thorough plant care without frequent reapplication. This dual-purpose formula combines 1.1% imidacloprid insecticide with 2-1-1 NPK fertilizer, providing year-long protection against Japanese beetles, emerald ash borers, adelgids, leafminers, and aphids. You’ll appreciate the systemic protection that travels from roots to leaves, ensuring complete nourishment throughout your plants. The slow-release granules eliminate spraying hassles while offering rainproof performance that won’t wash away during storms. With outstanding 4.6-star customer ratings, this 10-pound package effectively treats outdoor trees, shrubs, and container plants with convenient, long-lasting results.

Best For: Gardeners seeking a convenient, long-lasting solution that combines insect protection and fertilization for trees and shrubs without the need for frequent reapplication or spraying.

Pros:

• Provides 12 months of continuous insect protection and fertilization with just one application
• Systemic formula protects plants from roots to leaves against multiple serious pests including Japanese beetles and emerald ash borers
• Rainproof granules eliminate the hassle of spraying and won’t wash away during storms

Cons:

• Contains imidacloprid which may be harmful to beneficial insects like bees
• Restricted for sale in multiple states and counties, limiting availability
• Lower nitrogen content (2-1-1 NPK) may not provide sufficient fertilization for plants requiring heavy feeding

The Old Farmers Almanac Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes (Box of 6 Spikes)

For gardeners seeking a hassle-free approach to nourishing established trees and shrubs, The Old Farmers Almanac Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes offer a convenient, no-mess solution that delivers consistent nutrition throughout the growing season. You’ll appreciate how easily these spikes hammer into the ground without crumbling, unlike some competing brands that break apart during installation. The slow-release formula provides steady nutrient distribution, promoting healthier foliage and stronger growth patterns in your landscape plants. However, you should note that these large spikes work best for bigger trees and shrubs, as they don’t break easily for smaller applications or precise placement needs.

Best For: Gardeners with established, larger trees and shrubs who want a convenient, mess-free fertilizing solution that provides slow-release nutrition throughout the growing season.

Pros:

• Easy to install – hammers into ground without crumbling like other brands
• Mess-free application with no additional work required after insertion
• Slow-release formula provides consistent nutrition over time, promoting healthier foliage and stronger growth

Cons:

• Large size makes them unsuitable for smaller plants or precise placement needs
• Some users report finding spike remnants in soil 1-2 years later, questioning effectiveness
• Mixed results with certain plant types, with some users not observing meaningful improvements

Miracle-Gro Shake N Feed All Purpose Plant Food (4.5 lbs)

Gardeners seeking a versatile, long-lasting fertilizer solution will find exceptional value in this thorough plant food formula. This 4.5-pound container delivers extensive nutrition that works both above and below ground, supporting shrubs, flowers, vegetables, and herbs with essential micronutrients for stronger, more vibrant growth. You’ll appreciate the straightforward application process, simply shaking the granules evenly onto soil and working them into the top few inches before watering to activate feeding. The formula’s three-month feeding duration means you’ll only need to reapply quarterly, making maintenance efficient throughout growing seasons.

Best For: Gardeners who want a convenient, long-lasting fertilizer that works for multiple plant types including flowers, vegetables, herbs, and shrubs in both containers and garden beds.

Pros:

• Long-lasting formula feeds plants for up to 3 months, requiring only quarterly applications
• Versatile enough to use on most plant types including flowers, vegetables, herbs, and shrubs
• Easy application process with simple shake-and-water activation

Cons:

• Granular format requires working into soil, which may be labor-intensive for large garden areas
• 4.5-pound size may be too much product for gardeners with small gardens or few plants
• Requires regular watering after application to maintain effectiveness throughout the feeding period

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food (3 lbs)

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food stands out as the ideal choice for gardeners who want a versatile, reliable fertilizer that works across their entire plant collection. This powder formula dissolves easily in water, delivering essential nutrients directly to your shrubs’ root systems for faster absorption and quicker results. You’ll notice visible improvements in growth and leaf color within weeks of application, as the balanced nutrients instantly feed your plants without burning when used correctly. The 3-pound container provides excellent coverage, feeding approximately 600 square feet when used with a garden feeder, making it cost-effective for larger landscapes with mixed plantings.

Best For: Gardeners seeking a versatile, cost-effective fertilizer that works safely across all types of plants including flowers, vegetables, trees, and houseplants both indoors and outdoors.

Pros:

• Delivers fast, visible results with improved plant growth and greener leaves within weeks of application
• Excellent value with 3-pound container covering approximately 600 square feet, making it cost-effective for larger gardens
• Safe and versatile formula that works on all plant types without burning when used as directed

Cons:

• Requires regular reapplication every 1-2 weeks for continued effectiveness, making it more labor-intensive than slow-release fertilizers
• Risk of leaf burning if overused or applied at full strength to sensitive plants
• Some customers have reported issues with order fulfillment and delivery problems

Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes (12 Spikes)

Busy homeowners who want thriving trees and shrubs without the hassle of frequent fertilizing will find Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes an ideal solution. These convenient spikes deliver a 15-5-10 NPK formula directly to root zones, providing slow-release nutrition for deciduous, flowering, and evergreen trees, plus acid-loving plants like azaleas and hydrangeas. You’ll simply drive the spikes two inches below soil surface around your tree’s drip line, spacing them at least three feet apart for maximum coverage. With twice-yearly application in spring and fall, you’ll promote vibrant foliage color and healthy growth without over-fertilizing concerns that plague liquid alternatives.

Best For: Busy homeowners who want to nourish their trees and shrubs with minimal effort through a convenient slow-release fertilizing system that only requires twice-yearly application.

Pros:

• Convenient slow-release formula delivers nutrients directly to root zones with just two applications per year (spring and fall)
• Works effectively on a wide variety of plants including deciduous, flowering, and evergreen trees plus acid-loving plants like azaleas and hydrangeas
• High customer satisfaction with 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 21,000 ratings, with users reporting visible improvements in foliage health and growth

Cons:

• Limited quantity of 12 spikes may not be sufficient for larger trees or multiple plants in your landscape
• Some users experience breakage issues with the plastic installation caps during application
• Mixed reviews on ease of installation, with some users finding the spikes difficult to drive into soil

Ironite Plus Shrubs, Trees Plant Food Bag Granular 12-10-10 3lb

Plant enthusiasts who want robust shrubs and trees that display vibrant green foliage will find exceptional value in Ironite Plus Shrubs, Trees Plant Food Bag Granular 12-10-10 3lb. This fast-acting granular fertilizer delivers a balanced 12-10-10 nutrient ratio, combining nitrogen for lush growth, phosphorus for strong roots, and potassium for weather resistance. You’ll appreciate the added 2% iron content, which prevents yellowing leaves and maintains that deep green color you’re seeking. The formula includes essential micronutrients like sulfur, supporting overall plant health and liveliness throughout growing seasons. Apply this versatile fertilizer during spring and fall for ideal results in your landscape.

Best For: Plant enthusiasts who want to promote vibrant green foliage, strong root development, and improved weather resistance in their shrubs, trees, and flower gardens.

Pros:

• Fast-acting formula with balanced 12-10-10 nutrients plus 2% iron for quick greening and comprehensive plant nutrition
• Includes essential micronutrients like sulfur that support overall plant health and prevent common deficiencies
• Highly rated by customers (4.6/5 stars) with proven effectiveness for various plants including hollies, magnolia trees, and vegetable gardens

Cons:

• Can harm delicate plants if used excessively, requiring careful application according to package directions
• Product weight discrepancy between advertised 3lb and actual 1.4lb specifications may cause confusion
• Limited to granular form only, which may not be suitable for all gardening preferences or application methods

16oz Tree and Shrub Plant Food Liquid Fertilizer

HiThrive’s 16oz Tree and Shrub Plant Food stands out as an excellent choice for gardeners who want maximum value from a concentrated liquid fertilizer, since one bottle creates 16 gallons of nutrient-rich solution. You’ll find this formula works effectively on diverse plants, from Oak and Maple trees to Holly and Lilac shrubs, delivering essential nitrogen for lush foliage, phosphorus for strong roots, and potassium for enhanced drought resistance. The application process couldn’t be simpler—just mix with water and apply every 1-2 weeks during growing season for best results. Users consistently report impressive improvements, including greener leaves, stronger root systems, and noticeable new growth throughout their landscapes.

Best For: Homeowners and gardeners of all experience levels who want a concentrated, easy-to-use liquid fertilizer that provides excellent value by creating 16 gallons of solution from one bottle for various trees and shrubs.

Pros:

• Excellent value with concentrated formula that makes 16 gallons of fertilizer from a single 16oz bottle
• Works effectively on a wide variety of plants including Oak, Maple, Holly, and Lilac with essential macronutrients for complete plant health
• Simple application process with clear instructions suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners

Cons:

• Some delivery issues reported with products arriving damaged or empty
• May cause increased weed growth in the vicinity of treated plants
• Lacks specific measurement instructions for individual trees, requiring users to estimate proper dosing

Fertilome (10864) Tree and Shrub Food 19-8-10 (4 lbs.)

Gardeners who manage diverse landscapes with multiple tree and shrub varieties will find Fertilome’s Tree and Shrub Food 19-8-10 delivers extensive nutrition across their entire property. This granular fertilizer’s balanced NPK ratio supports everything from shade trees to evergreens, citrus, and tropical specimens with consistent results. You’ll appreciate the straightforward application process that requires simply sprinkling the product around each plant’s drip line without any digging or soil preparation. The balanced nutrients distribute throughout your plants effectively, promoting healthier growth when you follow the recommended twice-yearly feeding schedule for excellent results.

Best For: Gardeners managing diverse landscapes with multiple tree and shrub varieties who want a simple, effective fertilizer that works across different plant types including shade trees, evergreens, citrus, and tropical specimens.

Pros:

• Easy application with no digging required – simply sprinkle around the drip line
• Versatile formula works on all types of trees and shrubs including evergreens, citrus, and tropical varieties
• Balanced 19-8-10 NPK ratio provides comprehensive nutrition with effective distribution throughout plants

Cons:

• Only 4 lbs. may not be sufficient for large properties with many trees and shrubs
• Requires twice-yearly application which means ongoing maintenance and product repurchasing
• Granular format may not provide immediate nutrient availability compared to liquid fertilizers

GreenView Multi-Purpose Fertilizer, 33 lb. Bag – NPK 10-10-10

Balanced nutrition becomes essential when you’re managing diverse plantings that include shrubs, trees, flowers, and vegetables in a single landscape. GreenView’s 10-10-10 formula delivers equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, providing thorough nutrition for mixed garden environments. This 33-pound bag covers extensive areas, making it cost-effective for larger properties with varied plantings. The granular format guarantees controlled release, supporting steady root development and sustained growth throughout the growing season. With 4.6 stars from 376 customer reviews, this versatile fertilizer simplifies your feeding routine by eliminating the need for multiple specialized products across different plant types.

Best For: Homeowners and gardeners managing diverse landscapes with mixed plantings of vegetables, flowers, trees, and shrubs who want a single, versatile fertilizer solution.

Pros:

• Balanced 10-10-10 NPK formula works effectively across all plant types, eliminating the need for multiple specialized fertilizers
• Large 33-pound bag provides excellent value and coverage for extensive properties and landscapes
• Granular format ensures controlled, steady nutrient release throughout the growing season

Cons:

• Generic formulation may not address specific nutritional needs of certain specialized plants or soil deficiencies
• Large bag size may be excessive for smaller gardens or occasional users with limited storage space
• Equal NPK ratios might not be optimal for plants requiring specific nutrient adjustments during different growth phases

Factors to Consider When Choosing Shrub Fertilizer

When I’m selecting the right fertilizer for my shrubs, I consider several key factors that’ll determine success in my garden. The nutrient content, particularly the NPK ratio, must match my specific shrub varieties and their growth requirements throughout the season. I also evaluate application methods, release rates, and my soil’s current condition to guarantee I’m providing ideal nutrition without causing harm.

Nutrient Content Analysis

Grasping nutrient content becomes the foundation for selecting fertilizers that’ll truly nourish your shrubs and promote vigorous growth. I suggest examining the NPK ratio first, as this three-number sequence reveals the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in your fertilizer. A balanced 10-10-10 ratio provides equal amounts of each primary nutrient, supporting thorough plant development from roots to foliage. You’ll want nitrogen for lush leaf growth, phosphorus for strong root systems and flowering, and potassium for enhanced disease resistance and stress tolerance. Don’t overlook essential micronutrients like iron, sulfur, and magnesium, which support chlorophyll production and overall plant importance. These secondary nutrients work alongside primary macronutrients to guarantee your shrubs receive complete, balanced nutrition for ideal health and sustained growth throughout the growing season.

Application Method Preferences

Your fertilizer’s nutrient profile sets the stage, but the application method you choose determines how effectively those nutrients reach your shrub’s root system. I recommend granular fertilizers for their slow-release formulas, which provide steady nutrition over months with minimal maintenance after application. Fertilizer spikes offer convenience for established shrubs, as you simply insert them into soil near the root zone, delivering nutrients directly where they’re needed most. Liquid fertilizers give you flexibility with quick absorption and customizable mixing ratios, though they require more frequent applications every one to two weeks during growing season. Consider your schedule and maintenance preferences when selecting between these methods, as rainproof and systemic options guarantee consistent nutrient delivery regardless of weather conditions.

Release Rate Options

Although application methods establish the delivery system, the release rate you select determines how quickly nutrients become available to your shrub’s root system. Fast-release fertilizers deliver immediate nutrition, making them perfect when your shrubs need rapid recovery or quick growth responses. However, they require more frequent applications and increase leaching risks if you over-apply them. Slow-release options, particularly those extending over three months, provide steady nutrient delivery that matches your plants’ natural consumption patterns. These formulations use coating technologies or organic materials to control release rates, maintaining stable soil nutrition levels while reducing reapplication frequency. I recommend considering your local climate conditions and specific shrub species’ growth cycles when choosing between release rates, ensuring ideal nutrient timing.

Plant Type Compatibility

Since each shrub species has evolved distinct nutritional requirements, selecting the right fertilizer depends greatly on matching your specific plant types with compatible formulations. I recommend acid-loving varieties like azaleas and rhododendrons receive specialized fertilizers that maintain lower soil pH levels while delivering targeted nutrients. For deciduous shrubs, I suggest balanced NPK ratios that support both vigorous leaf development and strong root establishment throughout growing seasons. Evergreen shrubs typically thrive with higher nitrogen content, which I’ve found promotes that coveted lush, green foliage year-round. When you’re growing flowering shrubs, I encourage choosing slow-release formulations that provide gradual nutrient absorption, resulting in enhanced bloom persistence and overall plant health. Remember that application timing varies considerably among species, with most requiring bi-annual feeding schedules.

Soil Condition Requirements

Understanding your soil’s unique characteristics forms the foundation for selecting effective shrub fertilizers that will truly nourish your plants. I recommend testing your soil’s pH first, since most shrubs thrive in slightly acidic to neutral conditions between 6.0-7.0, and nutrient availability depends heavily on this factor. Your soil’s texture matters greatly too—sandy soils drain quickly and may need frequent fertilization, while clay soils retain nutrients longer but can become compacted. I always emphasize incorporating organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure, which enhances nutrient retention and supports beneficial microbes that improve soil health. Well-aerated soil prevents compaction, allowing roots to access fertilizer nutrients effectively and promoting robust shrub development throughout your landscape.

Seasonal Timing Considerations

Once you’ve optimized your soil conditions, timing your fertilizer applications becomes the next key factor that determines your shrubs’ success throughout the growing season. I recommend fertilizing in early spring and late fall to align with your shrubs’ natural growth cycles. Spring applications provide essential nutrients as plants emerge from dormancy, promoting healthy new growth and vibrant flowering. Fall fertilization strengthens root systems before winter while building nutrient reserves for early spring growth. For spring-blooming shrubs, I suggest applying fertilizer in late winter to maximize their flowering potential. You’ll also want to take into account soil temperature and moisture levels, as extreme conditions can affect nutrient uptake and reduce fertilizer effectiveness.

Coverage Area Calculations

When calculating fertilizer coverage areas, I start by examining the product label’s recommended application rate, which typically specifies square footage per pound or per package. I focus on the drip line method, measuring the area directly beneath each shrub’s canopy where roots actively absorb nutrients. For example, if my fertilizer covers 600 square feet per 1.5 pounds, I’ll divide my total treatment area by 600 to determine how many units I need. When working with multiple shrubs, I calculate each plant’s drip line area separately, then sum these measurements for my total coverage requirement. Different shrub varieties may need varying application rates, so I carefully review specific guidelines for each plant type to guarantee I’m providing the best possible nutrition without over-fertilizing.

Budget and Value

Three key financial factors determine whether a shrub fertilizer delivers genuine value for your gardening investment. I always compare cost per pound when evaluating options, since bulk purchases typically offer better unit pricing than smaller packages. The NPK ratio notably impacts value because balanced or targeted nutrient compositions address specific plant needs more effectively. I look for fertilizers with added benefits like slow-release technology or micronutrients, which enhance plant health while reducing application frequency. Customer reviews provide valuable insights into effectiveness and satisfaction levels, helping justify higher costs for superior products. Duration of effectiveness matters most—fertilizers lasting three months versus single applications prove more economical over time, reducing your reapplication efforts and expenses.

On a final note

I’ve provided you with eight excellent fertilizer options that’ll nourish your shrubs throughout the growing season, from quick-release granules to slow-release spikes. Whether you’re dealing with flowering shrubs that need phosphorus for blooms, or evergreens requiring steady nitrogen, there’s a formula here that matches your landscape’s specific needs. Remember to test your soil first, follow application rates carefully, and water thoroughly after feeding for ideal nutrient uptake and healthy growth.