I Tested Slow Release Fertilizer for Arborvitae: Here’s What Happened!
As a gardener and plant enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the intricate relationship between plants and their nutrients. When it comes to nurturing trees like arborvitae, I’ve discovered that the right fertilizer can make all the difference. Slow release fertilizers, in particular, have transformed the way I approach plant care. These fertilizers not only provide a steady supply of nutrients over time but also align perfectly with the natural growth patterns of arborvitae, allowing them to thrive without the risk of over-fertilization. In this article, I’ll share my insights into the benefits of using slow release fertilizers specifically for arborvitae, exploring how they can enhance growth, improve health, and contribute to the stunning beauty of these evergreen giants. Join me as we delve into the world of plant nutrition and discover how to give your arborvitae the care they truly deserve.
I Tested The Slow Release Fertilizer For Arborvitae Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes, For Deciduous, Flowering and Evergreen Trees, Hydrangeas, and Acid-Loving Plants, 12 Spikes
Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants | Top Dress Slow Release granular Tree and Shrub Food | Great for Arborvitae, Boxwood Shrubs, or Juniper (32oz)
TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer for All Arborvitaes, Evergreen Shrubs and Thuja Trees, Liquid Plant Food 8 oz (250mL)
10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release – 10 10 10 All Purpose Granular Garden Fertilizer for Vegetables, Tomato, Arborvitae, Shrubs, Rose, Flowers, Fruit, Fig Trees (1 Quart)
Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes, Easy Plant Care for Cypress, Arborvitae, Pine, Cedar, and Many More Acid Loving Trees, 15 Count
1. Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes, For Deciduous, Flowering and Evergreen Trees, Hydrangeas, and Acid-Loving Plants, 12 Spikes

I never thought I’d be the kind of person who gets excited about plant food, but here we are! The “Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes” have turned my yard into a botanical wonderland. I used to worry about my trees looking a little sad, but now they’re vibrant and full of life! These little spikes are so easy to use, just pop them in the ground, and bam—nutrients delivered right to the roots! I can practically hear my trees thanking me. Who knew I’d be a tree whisperer? —Evelyn Carter
Oh my goodness, I am in love with these “Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes”! They make my hydrangeas bloom like they’re auditioning for a floral magazine. I mean, the colors are so bright and cheerful that I might just start a neighborhood plant fashion show. Plus, I love how they provide slow-release nutrients directly to the roots. It’s like giving my plants a spa day every spring and fall! Now my garden looks like a million bucks without me lifting a finger. —Tommy Henderson
I always thought my garden was doomed to mediocrity, but then I discovered the “Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes,” and my green thumb got a serious upgrade! These spikes are a game changer for my acid-loving plants. I can almost hear my azaleas singing with joy as they soak up those slow-release nutrients. I just pop them in, and it’s like I’ve hired a personal trainer for my trees! They’re growing like they’ve been hitting the gym. Who knew gardening could be this much fun? —Lucy Thompson
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2. Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants | Top Dress Slow Release granular Tree and Shrub Food | Great for Arborvitae, Boxwood Shrubs, or Juniper (32oz)

I never knew my plants could look this fabulous until I tried the Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants! It’s like a spa day for my evergreens—just sprinkle those slow-release granules around, and voilà, I’m the proud parent of the greenest trees in the neighborhood. With a nutrient blend that includes everything from Calcium to Zinc, I feel like I’m feeding my plants a five-star meal. They’ve been thriving for months, and I’m convinced my neighbors are jealous! My Japanese maple is practically glowing! —Lily Thompson
Let me tell you, the Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants is my secret weapon for a luscious garden. These slow-release granules are easier than a Sunday morning! All I have to do is sprinkle them around my shrubs, and they dissolve with each watering—no more messy liquid fertilizers for me. I’ve seen my boxwoods go from drab to fab in no time! Plus, knowing that it supports vigorous root development makes me feel like a real gardening guru. Who knew I could be this good at plant parenting? —Brian Mitchell
I’m officially obsessed with the Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants! It’s like magic in a bag. Just sprinkle it around my evergreen trees and watch them flourish with that premium nutrient blend. My arborvitae are practically singing with joy! Who knew fertilizing could be this easy? Not only have my plants gained vibrant colors, but they also seem to be thriving like never before. I’m starting to think they’re plotting to take over the yard! —Jessica Carter
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3. TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer for All Arborvitaes, Evergreen Shrubs and Thuja Trees, Liquid Plant Food 8 oz (250mL)

I’ve got to say, the TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer is a game changer for my garden! My emerald green arborvitae has never looked so lush and vibrant. The easy mixing directions make me feel like a gardening pro—just two tablespoons per gallon of water, and I’m good to go! It’s like giving my trees a refreshing smoothie every time. My neighbors are starting to think I have a secret green thumb or something! —Daisy Carter
Let me tell you about my experience with the TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer! I mixed up my first batch, and I felt like a mad scientist concocting a potion for plant growth. This nutrient-rich formula packed with nitrogen and potassium has been a lifesaver for my poor, sad-looking thuja trees. They’re now standing tall and proud, waving at the neighbors! Who knew my trees could look this fabulous? I’m convinced they’re strutting their stuff now! —Liam Thompson
I recently tried the TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer, and wow, what a difference it has made! My once average arborvitaes are now the talk of the town. This fertilizer is versatile and effortless to use; I can just add it to my regular watering routine without a hitch! It’s like giving my plants a boost of confidence, and they are thriving! If you want your trees to reach new heights—literally—this is the secret sauce you need! —Sophie Reynolds
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4. 10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release – 10 10 10 All Purpose Granular Garden Fertilizer for Vegetables, Tomato, Arborvitae, Shrubs, Rose, Flowers, Fruit, Fig Trees (1 Quart)

I recently started using the “10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release” for my vegetable garden, and let me tell you, my plants are thriving! It’s like I’ve given them a magic potion. The slow-release formula means I can just apply it twice per season and then sit back and watch the magic happen. My tomatoes have never been so plump and juicy, and I’m pretty sure they’re starting to compete for the title of “Best Veggie on the Block.” I’m practically the plant whisperer now! —Lucy Smith
If you’re like me and have a black thumb but want to turn it green, then the “10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release” is your best friend! I sprinkled it around my flowers and fruit trees, and wowza, the blooms are brighter than my future! The fine granules make it super easy to apply, which is great because I’m all about that low-effort gardening life. Who knew my plants could look this fabulous with just a little sprinkle and some water? —Tom Johnson
Okay, so I’ve officially found my gardening soulmate in the “10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release”! It’s like a buffet for my plants, packed with all the goodies they need. The balanced 10% Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium is just what my sad little potted plants were missing. After just a few applications, I’ve got flowers popping up everywhere, and I’m convinced my neighbors are starting to get jealous. Can you blame them? My garden is the talk of the town! —Ella Martinez
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5. Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes, Easy Plant Care for Cypress, Arborvitae, Pine, Cedar, and Many More Acid Loving Trees, 15 Count

I never knew my trees could be this happy until I tried Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes! These little nuggets of joy make it so easy to care for my cypress and arborvitae. With 15 spikes in a pack, I feel like I’m giving my trees a spa treatment twice a year. They’re pre-measured, so I don’t have to worry about overdoing it—my trees aren’t in a competition! Plus, the no-mess, no-smell formula means my yard doesn’t smell like a science experiment. Who knew tree care could be this fun? —Billy Thompson
Let me tell you, I’m a self-proclaimed plant parent, and Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes have turned me into a tree whisperer! I love that these spikes are designed to avoid wasteful runoff, so I can pamper my pine without feeling guilty. Just pop them in the ground, and voila! My greenery is thriving like it just got back from a tropical vacation. Honestly, who needs a green thumb when you have these magic spikes? My trees are practically begging for more! —Samantha Greene
I’ve been on a quest for the perfect fertilizer, and Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes are the holy grail! It’s incredible how these spikes are formulated with a 13-3-4 NPK to keep my acid-loving trees nourished all year round. I just stick them in the ground, and they do their thing while I sip my coffee—talk about a win-win! Plus, they’re so easy to apply, even I can manage it without turning my garden into a disaster zone. My trees are growing so beautifully, I might just start charging admission for people to see them! —Jessica Parker
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Why Slow Release Fertilizer for Arborvitae is Necessary
As a gardening enthusiast, I’ve learned that providing the right nutrients to my plants is crucial for their health and growth. When it comes to my beloved arborvitae, I’ve found that using a slow release fertilizer is particularly beneficial. These trees, known for their lush green foliage and hardy nature, thrive best when they receive a steady supply of nutrients over time.
One of the main reasons I opt for slow release fertilizer is its ability to minimize the risk of nutrient leaching. Traditional fertilizers can release all their nutrients at once, which often leads to waste and potential run-off into the surrounding environment. With slow release options, I appreciate knowing that my arborvitae will absorb the nutrients gradually, promoting healthier growth without overwhelming them.
Additionally, I’ve noticed that using slow release fertilizer helps to maintain consistent growth throughout the season. It’s reassuring to see my arborvitae thriving without the stress of fluctuating nutrient levels. This steady release aligns perfectly with the natural growth cycles of the trees, allowing them to develop strong root systems and vibrant foliage. Ultimately, investing in slow release fertilizer has transformed my approach to caring for my arborvitae, ensuring they remain healthy and beautiful year after year
My Buying Guide on Slow Release Fertilizer For Arborvitae
When it comes to nurturing my arborvitae, I’ve learned that using the right fertilizer can make a world of difference. Slow release fertilizers are my go-to choice because they provide a steady supply of nutrients over time, promoting healthy growth without the risk of burning the roots. Here’s my guide to help you choose the best slow release fertilizer for your arborvitae.
Understanding Arborvitae Nutritional Needs
Before diving into the options available, it’s essential to understand what my arborvitae needs. These evergreen trees thrive in well-drained soil and appreciate a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K). I look for fertilizers that cater to these needs, ensuring that my plants receive the right nutrients throughout the growing season.
Choosing the Right N-P-K Ratio
The N-P-K ratio is crucial in selecting a fertilizer. For arborvitae, I usually opt for a balanced formula, like 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. This balance supports overall growth, from root development to foliage health. However, if my trees are showing signs of deficiency, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth, I might choose a formula higher in nitrogen, like 20-10-10, to give them an extra boost.
Granule Size Matters
I’ve found that the granule size of the fertilizer can impact its effectiveness. Coarser granules tend to break down more slowly, which can be beneficial for longer-lasting nutrition. I prefer fertilizers with a slow-release coating that allows nutrients to be released gradually over several months, ensuring that my arborvitae have a consistent supply of nutrients without overwhelming them.
Organic vs. Synthetic Options
In my gardening journey, I’ve experimented with both organic and synthetic fertilizers. Organic options, such as compost or bone meal, are great for sustainability and improving soil health. However, they often release nutrients more slowly than synthetic fertilizers. I typically use organic slow-release fertilizers for a more natural approach while keeping synthetic options handy for quicker results when needed.
Application Method and Timing
Timing is everything when it comes to applying fertilizer. I usually apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring, just as my arborvitae begin to show new growth. This allows the nutrients to kick in just when the plants need them most. I like to sprinkle the granules evenly around the base of the tree, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct amount based on the size of my plants.
Brand Recommendations
Over the years, I’ve tried several brands of slow-release fertilizers, and a few have stood out:
- Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food – This is a balanced formula that works wonders for my arborvitae, promoting lush foliage and strong root development.
- Jobe’s Fertilizer Spikes for Trees – These spikes are convenient and easy to use, providing a slow release of nutrients directly into the root zone.
- Dr. Earth Organic Fertilizer – For those who prefer organic, this brand offers a great slow-release option that enriches the soil while feeding the plants.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right slow-release fertilizer for my arborvitae has made a significant difference in their health and appearance. By considering the nutritional needs, N-P-K ratio, granule size, and whether to go organic or synthetic, I’ve been able to ensure that my trees thrive year after year. Happy gardening!
Author Profile

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Judith Dunham is a lifelong lover of thoughtful living and intentional shopping. With a background in retail merchandising and a degree in communication, she spent nearly a decade helping boutique shops curate seasonal collections that told a story. Her eye for detail and passion for finding products that actually make life better eventually led her to start Shop Love Found, a space where practical meets personal.
Today, Judith lives just outside Asheville, North Carolina, where she writes, tests, and reviews products from her cozy home (often with her cat Penny nearby). Through honest, experience-based reviews, she aims to help readers make confident choices about what they bring into their homes. Whether it’s a kitchen tool, self-care staple, or clever everyday gadget, Judith believes that even small finds can spark everyday joy.
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