10 Best Crape Myrtle Fertilizers for Vibrant Blooms and Healthy Growth

I’ve found that the best crape myrtle fertilizers feature high-phosphorus formulations like 8-55-7 or 10-15-9, which dramatically boost bloom production and foliage development. Top performers include Crape Myrtle Plant Food’s water-soluble formula for quick results, NutriStar’s slow-release granules lasting four months, and BioAdvanced’s 12-month protection system combining fertilization with pest control. Each offers distinct advantages depending on your maintenance preferences, tree size, and soil conditions, with proper selection transforming ordinary trees into spectacular flowering displays.

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

• Choose fertilizers with high phosphorus ratios like 8-55-7 or 10-15-9 to promote abundant flowering and bloom development.
• Apply slow-release granular fertilizers every 2-3 months for consistent nutrition versus liquid fertilizers requiring weekly applications.
• Select products containing micronutrients like iron, manganese, and zinc to enhance foliage vibrancy and overall tree health.
• Consider combination products like BioAdvanced that provide both 12-month fertilization and pest protection for comprehensive tree care.
• Match fertilizer type to your maintenance preference: water-soluble for quick results or granular for low-maintenance feeding schedules.

Crepe Myrtle Plant Food 24oz 8-55-7

The scientifically formulated 8-55-7 nutrient ratio in Carl Pool’s Crepe Myrtle Plant Food makes it the ideal choice for gardeners seeking rapid flowering enhancement and robust foliage development in their ornamental trees. This 24-ounce granular fertilizer delivers nutrients through both roots and leaves, ensuring thorough plant nourishment that produces visible results within weeks. You’ll mix one tablespoon per gallon of water, applying this solution every 7-14 days during the growing season for peak performance. With over 2,300 customer ratings averaging 4.6 stars, this fertilizer consistently delivers the promised rapid improvement in plant health and increased blooming frequency that transforms ordinary crepe myrtles into spectacular landscape features.

Best For: Gardeners who want to enhance blooming and foliage growth in their crepe myrtle trees with a scientifically formulated fertilizer that delivers fast, visible results.

Pros:

• Scientifically formulated 8-55-7 nutrient ratio specifically designed for crepe myrtles with dual feeding through roots and leaves
• Fast results with visible improvement in plant health and increased blooming frequency within weeks
• High customer satisfaction with 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 2,300 ratings

Cons:

• Application can be difficult and impractical on taller trees due to the recommended feeding method
• Requires frequent applications every 7-14 days during growing season for optimal results
• Some users question the practicality of the recommended amounts for larger trees

NutriStar Granular Fertilizer for Flowering Trees (10-15-9, 2 lb.)

Gardeners seeking professional-grade nutrition for their crape myrtles will find NutriStar Granular Fertilizer delivers specialized care through its carefully balanced 10-15-9 formula. This slow-release fertilizer provides essential nitrogen, phosphate, and potash, along with sulfur, copper, iron, manganese, and zinc that flowering trees need. You’ll achieve enhanced bloom quantity, size, and quality while encouraging healthy regrowth after pruning sessions.

Apply the full rate in early spring, then continue with half-rate applications every 60 days for sustained nutrition that lasts up to four months. The higher phosphorus content and elemental sulfur improve soil acidity, creating ideal growing conditions for your crape myrtles and other flowering trees.

Best For: Gardeners with crape myrtles and other flowering trees who want professional-grade, slow-release nutrition to maximize bloom quantity, size, and quality while improving soil conditions.

Pros:

• Specialized 10-15-9 formula with essential micronutrients provides up to 4 months of sustained nutrition for optimal flowering
• Higher phosphorus content and elemental sulfur help improve soil acidity, creating ideal growing conditions for flowering trees
• Professional-grade, low salt formula backed by research since 1986, trusted by landscapers for consistent results

Cons:

• Limited to 2-pound package size may require multiple purchases for larger landscapes or multiple trees
• Requires reapplication every 60 days after initial spring feeding, which may be inconvenient for some gardeners
• Specialized formula may be overkill for gardeners with just basic fertilization needs or non-flowering trees

Crepe Myrtle Fertilizer, Complete Liquid Plant Food (8 oz)

Complete liquid fertilizers offer an excellent solution for gardeners who want to revitalize struggling crepe myrtle trees, especially when conventional feeding methods haven’t delivered the vibrant blooms you’re hoping to see. This 8-ounce liquid plant food provides concentrated nutrition that your trees can absorb quickly, making it particularly effective for crepe myrtles that appear unhealthy or aren’t flowering properly. You’ll appreciate the straightforward application process, which includes detailed care instructions that help guarantee the best results for your specific growing conditions. Many gardeners in challenging environments, like zone 9a with sandy soil, report remarkable improvements in both blooming intensity and overall tree health after using this USA-made fertilizer.

Best For: Gardeners with struggling or unhealthy crepe myrtle trees that aren’t blooming properly, especially those in challenging growing conditions like sandy soil environments.

Pros:

• Fast-absorbing liquid formula provides quick nutrition for rapid results
• Proven effective with many user testimonials reporting significant improvements in blooming and tree health
• Includes detailed care instructions for proper application and optimal results

Cons:

• Small 8 oz size may require multiple bottles for larger trees or multiple applications
• Liquid fertilizer typically needs more frequent applications compared to slow-release granular options
• May be more expensive per application than traditional granular fertilizers

BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed (4 lb Granules)

Busy gardeners who want maximum protection with minimal effort will find BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed an exceptional dual-purpose solution for their crape myrtles. This granular formula combines targeted insect control with slow-release fertilization, delivering year-long protection against destructive pests like Japanese beetles, aphids, and leafminers that commonly threaten crape myrtles. You’ll appreciate the convenient application method, as these granules eliminate the need for spraying while providing essential nutrients that promote vigorous growth and abundant blooms. The slow-release fertilizer component guarantees your crape myrtles receive consistent nutrition throughout the growing season, supporting both foliage development and flower production.

Best For: Busy gardeners who want a convenient, long-lasting solution that combines insect protection and fertilization for their trees and shrubs with minimal maintenance requirements.

Pros:

• Provides 12 months of protection and nutrition with just one application, saving time and effort
• Combines insect control and slow-release fertilizer in one product, eliminating the need for multiple treatments
• Easy-to-use granular formula requires no mixing or spraying, making application simple and mess-free

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to separate insect control and fertilizer products
• Granular application may not provide immediate contact kill for existing heavy infestations
• Limited flexibility to adjust insect control and fertilization schedules independently based on specific plant needs

Natures Wisdom Crepe Myrtle Tree Water Soluble Fertilizer (1.5 Lb)

Flowering tree enthusiasts who want to maximize their crape myrtle’s blooming potential will find Natures Wisdom’s 8-55-7 water soluble fertilizer delivers exceptional results through its high-phosphorus formula. This specialized blend contains essential nutrients and minerals that optimize your plant’s nutritional requirements, promoting robust development and vibrant blooms. You’ll appreciate its versatility since it works effectively on various flowering ornamentals, including hydrangeas, bougainvillea, and plumeria. Users consistently report visible improvements, with abundant blooms appearing on hibiscus and crêpe myrtles after application. The easy-to-follow directions guarantee safe usage without burning roots or leaves, even during hot, dry conditions.

Best For: Flowering tree enthusiasts who want to maximize their crape myrtle’s blooming potential and promote vigorous growth in various flowering ornamentals, trees, shrubs, and vines.

Pros:

• High-phosphorus 8-55-7 formula specifically designed to promote abundant blooms and robust plant development
• Versatile application works on multiple flowering plants including hydrangeas, bougainvillea, plumeria, and tomatoes
• Safe and easy application that won’t burn roots or leaves even in hot, dry conditions

Cons:

• Results may vary significantly based on specific growing conditions and climate, such as challenging Texas weather
• Limited to 1.5 lb package size which may require frequent repurchasing for larger gardens
• Water soluble formula requires regular reapplication compared to slow-release fertilizers

Leaves and Soul Crepe Myrtle Professional Liquid Fertilizer (3-5-4 Nutrient Blend)

Professional gardeners and dedicated enthusiasts will discover exceptional value in Leaves and Soul Crepe Myrtle Professional Liquid Fertilizer, which delivers a precisely balanced 3-5-4 nutrient blend for superior blooming performance. This concentrate formula promotes robust root development, vibrant foliage, and stunning flower production through its specialized nutritional composition. You’ll appreciate the user-friendly application process, which guarantees rapid absorption and immediate nutrient uptake for your crepe myrtles. The eco-friendly ingredients support sustainable gardening practices while delivering professional-grade results for both garden and indoor plants, making this fertilizer an excellent choice for enhancing your landscape’s beauty.

Best For: Professional gardeners and dedicated enthusiasts who want to maximize crepe myrtle blooming performance and overall plant health with a specialized, eco-friendly fertilizer.

Pros:

• Specialized 3-5-4 nutrient blend formulated specifically for crepe myrtles to promote vibrant blooms and healthy growth
• User-friendly application with rapid absorption for immediate nutrient uptake and quick results
• Eco-friendly, professional-grade formula suitable for both indoor and outdoor plants

Cons:

• Specifically formulated for crepe myrtles, which may limit versatility for other plant types
• Professional-grade concentrate may require careful dilution and application knowledge
• No information provided about package size, coverage area, or cost per application

10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release All Purpose Granular Garden Fertilizer (1/2 Quart)

Gardeners seeking balanced nutrition for their crape myrtles will find the 10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release All Purpose Granular Garden Fertilizer delivers consistent, long-lasting results through its equal-ratio formula. The balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium supports strong root development, promotes vigorous foliage growth, and enhances your tree’s natural resilience against environmental stresses. You’ll appreciate the slow-release granular design, which provides steady nutrition for up to eight weeks, reducing the frequency of applications while maintaining ideal feeding levels. The fine granules distribute evenly around your crape myrtle’s root zone, ensuring maximum soil absorption and preventing nutrient burn that can occur with quick-release fertilizers.

Best For: Gardeners who want a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that provides consistent nutrition for a wide variety of plants including vegetables, flowers, trees, and shrubs with minimal application frequency.

Pros:

• Slow-release formula provides up to 8 weeks of consistent nutrition, reducing application frequency to just 2-3 times per season
• Balanced 10-10-10 NPK ratio works effectively for diverse plant types from vegetables and flowers to trees and shrubs
• Fine granules ensure even distribution and maximum soil absorption while preventing nutrient burn

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to similar fertilizer products like Milorganite may be cost-prohibitive for some gardeners
• Small 1/2 quart package size may not be sufficient for larger gardens or multiple applications throughout the season
• Limited to outdoor and basic indoor plant use, requiring verification of compatibility with specific plant types for optimal results

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

Crape myrtle enthusiasts who prefer a hands-off fertilizing approach will find The Old Farmers Almanac Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes perfectly suited for their maintenance routine. These 6-spike boxes deliver slow-release nutrients directly to root zones, promoting healthier foliage and stronger growth patterns throughout the growing season. You’ll appreciate their mess-free application, as they hammer easily into soil without crumbling like competing brands often do. The spikes work exceptionally well for larger crape myrtles, though you should note they’re designed for substantial applications rather than precise, small-space placements. While results vary among different plant species, many users report impressive growth improvements, with some trees tripling in size after consistent use.

Best For: Crape myrtle enthusiasts and tree owners who prefer a hands-off fertilizing approach for larger trees and shrubs requiring substantial nutrient applications.

Pros:

• Easy, mess-free application that hammers into soil without crumbling like competing brands
• Slow-release formula provides consistent nutrients to root zones throughout the growing season
• Proven effectiveness with impressive growth results, including some trees tripling in size

Cons:

• Large spike size makes them unsuitable for smaller spaces or precise placements
• Mixed results across different plant species, with some users seeing no meaningful changes
• Spike remnants may persist in soil for 1-2 years, raising questions about complete nutrient release

Premium Fertilizer for Crapemyrtle

Enthusiasts seeking exceptional results for their flowering trees will find this premium fertilizer delivers the specialized nutrition that crapemyrtles require for outstanding performance. This 3-pound formulation provides slow-release nitrogen that feeds your trees consistently throughout the entire growing season, ensuring sustained well-being and robust root development. You’ll appreciate how this concentrated formula treats one large tree or supports 2-3 smaller, newly planted specimens with targeted nutrition designed specifically for crapemyrtle needs. The complete instructions guide you through ideal application techniques, making it easy to provide your trees with the premium care they deserve for enhanced growth and vibrant health.

Best For: Crapemyrtle tree enthusiasts who want to provide specialized, long-lasting nutrition to promote optimal growth, root development, and overall tree health throughout the growing season.

Pros:

• Slow-release nitrogen formula provides consistent feeding throughout the entire growing season
• Specifically formulated for crapemyrtle trees’ unique nutritional requirements
• Concentrated 3-pound package efficiently treats one large tree or multiple smaller specimens

Cons:

• Limited to crapemyrtle trees only, not suitable for other flowering tree varieties
• May be more expensive per pound compared to general-purpose fertilizers
• Requires following specific application instructions for optimal results

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

When you’re seeking one versatile solution that’ll nourish your crape myrtles alongside your entire garden collection, Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food delivers exceptional value and convenience. This 3-pound powder formula provides essential nutrients that instantly feed your trees, promoting bigger blooms and healthier overall growth. You’ll mix the fertilizer with water and apply it every 1-2 weeks throughout the growing season, ensuring your crape myrtles receive consistent nutrition. The product’s safety guarantee means you won’t risk burning your trees when following directions, though starting with half-strength applications helps you assess your plants’ response before increasing concentration.

Best For: Gardeners who want a single, versatile fertilizer solution for feeding multiple types of plants including crape myrtles, vegetables, flowers, and houseplants without the risk of burning when used as directed.

Pros:

• Safe for all plant types with a guarantee not to burn when used as directed, making it beginner-friendly
• Excellent value with high customer satisfaction (4.7/5 stars from 64,366 ratings) and #1 ranking in garden fertilizers
• Convenient water-soluble powder format that provides instant nutrition and covers approximately 600 sq. ft. per 1.5 lbs when used with a garden feeder

Cons:

• Risk of leaf burning if overused or applied at full strength without testing plant response first
• Requires regular reapplication every 1-2 weeks throughout the growing season for optimal results
• Some customers have reported issues with order fulfillment and delivery problems

Factors to Consider When Choosing Crape Myrtle Fertilizer

When I’m selecting fertilizer for crape myrtles, I consider several key factors that directly impact my tree’s health, growth rate, and blooming performance. The nutrient ratio, application method, and release type all play essential roles in determining which fertilizer will work best for your specific growing conditions. Your tree’s current size, existing soil conditions, and maintenance preferences will guide you toward the most effective fertilizer choice for long-term success.

Nutrient Ratio Requirements

Understanding the proper nutrient ratio becomes essential for achieving vibrant blooms and robust growth in your crape myrtle trees. I recommend seeking fertilizers with higher phosphorus content, such as formulations like 8-55-7 or 10-15-9, which specifically support blooming and root health. You’ll want to maintain a balanced approach with approximately 10% nitrogen for lush foliage without compromising flower production. Phosphorus promotes abundant blooming, while potassium enhances your tree’s overall resilience against environmental stress. Don’t overlook the importance of micronutrients like iron, manganese, and zinc, which greatly improve flowering intensity and foliage vibrancy. Complete formulations containing these essential elements prove more effective than basic N-P-K blends alone, ensuring your crape myrtles receive thorough nutrition for peak performance throughout the growing season.

Application Method Preferences

Selecting the right application method for your crape myrtle fertilizer greatly impacts both convenience and effectiveness. I recommend considering three primary options: granular, liquid, and spike fertilizers, each offering unique advantages for different gardening styles. Granular fertilizers require soil incorporation or top-dressing and typically need application every 2-3 months, making them ideal for gardeners who prefer less frequent maintenance. Liquid fertilizers, when mixed with water, provide faster nutrient absorption through roots or foliage but require more frequent applications every 1-2 weeks. Fertilizer spikes offer the ultimate convenience, as you simply insert them into soil for slow, consistent nutrient release over time. Consider your watering schedule, tree size, and personal preferences when choosing, as larger trees may present application challenges that influence your method selection.

Release Type Options

Although application methods vary widely, the release type you choose determines how your crape myrtle receives nutrients throughout the growing season. I recommend considering two primary options: slow-release and water-soluble fertilizers, each offering distinct advantages for your specific gardening needs.

Slow-release fertilizers provide nutrients gradually over several months, maintaining consistent availability while reducing leaching risks in your soil. These formulations work exceptionally well for busy gardeners who prefer less frequent applications throughout the season.

Water-soluble fertilizers deliver nutrients quickly, allowing rapid absorption when your crape myrtle needs immediate feeding or during peak growth periods. Both types offer various nutrient ratios, such as 8-55-7 or 10-15-9, specifically formulated for blooming plants like crape myrtles, ensuring peak flower production and healthy development.

Tree Size Considerations

Your crape myrtle’s mature size directly impacts fertilizer requirements, with larger specimens demanding considerably more nutrients than their smaller counterparts. I recommend adjusting application rates based on your tree’s height, spread, and root zone coverage to affirm proper nutrient distribution. For established trees reaching 15-25 feet, you’ll need higher fertilizer volumes to adequately feed the extensive root system that supports their impressive canopy growth.

Younger plantings, however, thrive with lighter applications that promote steady development without overwhelming their developing roots. When fertilizing tall varieties, I suggest creating multiple application points around the drip line to confirm even coverage throughout the root zone. This targeted approach affirms your crape myrtle receives balanced nutrition regardless of its current size or growth stage.

Soil Condition Factors

Three critical soil factors determine which fertilizer will best nourish your crape myrtle’s growth and flowering potential. First, I recommend testing your soil’s pH level, as crape myrtles thrive in slightly acidic to neutral conditions between 6.0 and 7.0. Second, evaluate your soil’s drainage and nutrient retention capabilities, since sandy soils require more frequent fertilization than clay or loamy soils that hold nutrients longer. Third, assess your soil’s organic matter content through testing for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels. This analysis guides you toward fertilizers with appropriate N-P-K ratios tailored to your tree’s specific needs. Additionally, check for soil compaction and drainage issues that could prevent effective nutrient uptake and potentially cause harmful root diseases.

Seasonal Timing Needs

When choosing the right fertilizer for your crape myrtle, timing becomes as essential as selecting the proper nutrient blend for ideal results. I recommend applying fertilizer in early spring as your trees break dormancy, which promotes robust growth throughout the entire growing season. For most granular fertilizers, you’ll want to follow up every 60 days to maintain consistent nutrient availability. However, liquid fertilizers offer more flexibility, allowing applications every 7-14 days for rapid nutrient uptake during hot weather periods. I suggest using full-rate granular applications initially, then switching to half-rate follow-ups for sustained nutrition. Avoid late-season fertilizing, as this promotes excessive growth that’s vulnerable to winter damage and pest infestations.

On a final note

I’ve guided you through nine excellent fertilizer options that’ll help your crape myrtles thrive with spectacular blooms and robust growth. Whether you prefer granular, liquid, or spike formulations, each product offers unique benefits for different gardening situations. Remember to contemplate your soil’s nutrient levels, application preferences, and seasonal timing when making your selection. With proper fertilization and care, you’ll enjoy vibrant summer displays that make your landscape truly stunning.