What kind of fertilizer should I use to get the best results from my plants? What are the benefits of using organic fertilizers? How often should I apply them? These are some of the most commonly asked questions by homeowners and gardeners, alike!
Fertilizer is a key component of a successful garden or landscaping project. The right type of fertilizer can improve soil quality, promote plant growth, and boost yields. Organic fertilizers are also beneficial because they don’t contain chemicals that harm the environment.
There are several types of fertilizers available, each with its own benefits. Some are designed to provide nutrients to plants, while others are meant to encourage root development. These include slow-release fertilizers, liquid fertilizers, granular fertilizers, and even compost.
In this article, we will discuss what kinds of fertilizers work well in trees and shrubs, how to choose the best one for your needs, and when you should apply it. We’ll also share some tips on how to use these fertilizers properly.
So, without further ado, read on to discover some of the best fertilizers specifically designed to be used on trees and shrubs!
The Top Fertilizers For Trees And Shrubs
Even though there are a variety of different fertilizers out there on the market, it can be very difficult to separate the best fertilizers from the rest – especially when it comes to fertilizing trees and shrubs.
That’s why, below, you will find detailed and honest reviews about some of the fertilizers ideal for using with your trees and shrubs. Whenever you’re ready, just read on to learn about them all:
Best Overall – Miracle Gro® Garden Feeder Plus™
Kicking this list off, we have selected the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder Plus, which is suitable for use on both trees, shrubs, and even plants. Let’s take a closer look at why it’s such a great option to consider opting for below:
This product has been formulated to help promote healthy growth in trees, shrubs, and other plants by providing a balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
It also contains trace elements including iron, zinc, copper, manganese, boron, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, chlorine, sodium, silicon, molybdenum, and cobalt.
One of the biggest plus-points about the Miracle-Gro Garden Feeder Plus is the innovative bottle that it comes in.
Unlike other fertilizers that require you to take the formula out of the bottle in order to mix it, this bottle comes in a spray bottle that allows you to use it as soon as it arrives at your doorstep! All you will need to do is shake and spray.
On top of that, this fertilizer from Miracle-Gro also comes complete with the option of using three different spray options – including shower, jet and flat.
We really like this, as it means that you will have even more control over the way that you are able to fertilize both your trees and shrubs.
All in all? This is a great option if you are looking for a convenient spray that will be suitable for use on shrubs, trees and various other plants, too!
Pros
- Affordable
- 3 different spray types
- Suitable for trees, shrubs and various other plants
Cons
- Requires frequent feeding every 1-2 weeks.
- Includes 1 lb. of Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food
- Trigger lock for one-handed feeding
- Features three spray patterns: shower, jet and flat
- For all outdoor plants including flowers, vegetables, trees and shrubs
- Feed every 1-2 weeks for best results
Best Value – BioAdvanced Tree And Shrub Fertilizer
Are you in the market for a natural tree and shrub fertilizer that’s going to be able to offer you excellent value for money? If you answered yes to that question, then we think that you might love the BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Fertilizer!
Offering the convenience of being an incredibly low maintenance way to fortify your trees and shrubs, this fertilizer from BioAdvanced comes complete with the promise of being able to offer your trees and shrubs 12 months of nutrients and protections without needing to re-feed.
This is all thanks to the slow-release formula. As soon as you have applied this fertilizer to the root zones of tour trees and shrubs, this filter will get to work in gradually strengthening and fortifying your trees and plants.
On top of that, you’ll also get a whole gallon, which means that you’ll have plenty of products that will last you a super long time.
Plus, if all that wasn’t impressive enough, this tree and shrub fertilizer from BioAdvanced also doubles up as a pretty awesome pest killer, too!
Alongside fortifying your trees and shrubs, this fertilizer will also be able to kill a variety of different pests including Emerald Ash Borers, Japanese Beetles, Adelgids and plenty more! For the price, performance, and amount – this fertilizer is incredible value for your money.
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Offers 12 months of protection
- Pest killer as well as fertilizer
Cons
- You have to measure the amount you add to your soil by yourself
- 12 MONTH PROTECTION: With just one application, kills listed insects and prevents new infestations for up to a year
- INSECT & PEST KILLER: Kills Japanese Beetles, Emerald Ash Borers, Adelgids, Leafminers, Aphids, Caterpillars, and more
- SLOW-RELEASE FERTILIZER: Plant food and fertilizer improves the health of your trees and shrubs
- SYSTEMIC PROTECTION: Protects your potted and outdoor trees and shrubs from the roots to the stem of every leaf
- RESTRICTIONS: Not for sale in NY, CT, MD, MA, ME, & VT
Best Budget – Omri Listed Fish & Kelp Fertilizer For Trees, Shrubs And Plants
Are you on the search for a great fertilizer suitable for trees and shrubs that’s not going to break the bank? If you answered yes to that question, then the Omri Listed Fish & Kelp Fertilizer For Trees, Shrubs, and Plants might be just what you’re looking for!
Just like the name suggests, the Omri Listed Fish & Kelp Fertilizer designed for trees, shrubs and other plants has been made by entirely natural fish that will not only be able to help fortify your shrubs and plants but also ensure bright, healthy foliage and nutrient-rich soil.
As soon as you apply this nourishing fish and kelp fertilizer to your shrubs and trees, the fortifying formula of this fertilizer will instantly get to work in improving the color of your foliage while also helping to strengthen the soil that the roots are held within.
This fertilizer is able to do this by increasing the amount of chlorophyll in the roots, which is the main component that gives shrubs, trees, and other plants their strong green color.
In addition, ideal for gardeners and homeowners alike, this fertilizer is able to also act as an impressive growth promoter and soil conditioner.
When used correctly and in the right dosages (this fertilizer comes with measurement instructions included) this fertilizer will be able to achieve healthier plants, increased growth and more fruitful yields.
All in all? With regular and proper use, this fish and kelp fertilizer will be able to increase the sugar content in your shrubs and trees (as well as any additional plants that you would like to fertilize) raise the mineral uptake in the roots, strengthen the soil, and even offer protection during adverse weather conditions so that your trees and shrubs do not become damaged.
It’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a great fertilizer that isn’t going to break the bank!
Pros
- Affordable and ideal for those who are on a budget
- Suitable for a range of different plants, including trees and shrubs
- Helps to increase chlorophyll mistake to ensure a vibrant green color, while also helping to strengthen the soil
Cons
- Some customers report that this fertilizer has a foul smell
- OMRI ORGANIC LISTED FISH AND SEAWEED BLEND: GS Plant Foods all-natural fresh fish liquid fertilizer is a high quality organic product that gives excellent plant growth, rebuilds soil, and offers higher production yields. The kelp fertilizer can be applied to any type of plants, trees, lawns, flowers, vegetables and seeds without concern for waste.
- REBUILDS SOIL & IMPROVES PLANT COLOR: Our organic liquid fertilizer increases and stabilizes chlorophyll in plants, which results in darker green leaves and increased sugar content in plants. This seedling fertilizer relieves stress in plants caused by extreme weather conditions, increases plant vigor, greater resistance to heat, drought, and frost. Our organic liquid fertilizer for seedlings increases microorganisms in the soil and increases mineral uptake.
- OPTIMAL PLANT GROWTH & HEALTH AT HOME OR COMMERCIALLY: Used in low concentrations, liquid seaweed fertilizer acts as an efficacious growth promoter. GS Plant Foods fish seaweed fertilizer is used extensively on a commercial basis, as well as at home for gardeners as an organic soil conditioner. Reduce herbicide use by adding our liquid kelp extract, and yet maintain the same kill effectiveness. This fish fertilizer for vegetables will lead to healthier crop yields and general plant well being.
- EASY TO APPLY FOR NATURAL GREAT RESULTS: Apply liquid fish & kelp fertilizer to improve specific growth stages. For House Plants; use 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. Feed every two weeks and do not over water. For Outdoor Plants; Use 2 fl. Oz per gallon of water. Feed vegetables, flowers, trees and shrubs every 2-3 weeks. Apply until soil is saturated or as a foliar feed until leaves are wet, top and bottom. For Lawns; use 2 to 4 oz concentrate per gallon of water to cover 1,000 sq. ft.
- TRUSTED & RELIABLE: At GS Plant Foods, we understand that you are placing your trust in us to provide you with the highest quality products available. We have 100% confidence in the quality of our products and continuously strive to deliver the best customer experience. Our products are organic, easy to use, cost efficient, sustainable, and yield consistent & amazing results in your garden, no matter what you're growing or what medium in which your plants are growing.
Best Fertilizer Alternative – Miracle-Gro Tree And Shrub Plant Food Spikes
No products found.
Last but certainly not least, the final product that we have selected to feature in our round-up is the Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food Spikes! This is a great option for anyone looking for a convenient alternative to traditional plant fertilizer.
Plant food spikes are a great way to make sure that your trees and shrubs get all the nutrients that they need without becoming overfed!
When it comes to the Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes, they will be able to help promote lush, green foliage, as well as beautiful vibrant color in both your shrubs and your trees!
Plus, unlike other types of plant food spikes on the market, these plant food spikes from Miracle-Gro Tree contain only natural ingredients, which means that you will be able to use them with the peace of mind that your trees and shrubs are only being fed high-quality, natural ingredients that are free from any nasty chemicals or toxins.
This particular product is also a great option for anyone that wants the convenience of not having to worry about regularly feeding their trees and shrubs.
Unlike most fertilizers that require you to keep on top of feeding every 1-2 weeks, these plant food spikes only require you to replace them once every 1-2 months! How impressive is that?
They’re definitely something to consider if you are open to trying something a little different to traditional fertilizer.
Pros
- Low maintenance
Cons
- Not fertilizer
No products found.
What Kinds Of Fertilizers Are Suitable For Trees And Shrubs?
So, now that we have talked you through our rundown of the best fertilizers for trees and shrubs currently on the market, we are now going to be talking you through everything that you need to know about them to ensure their efficacy and your plant’s health.
The first thing to know about fertilizing trees and shrubs is that there’s no single type of fertilizer that works for all plants, and that goes for trees and shrubs, too.
As a gardener, it’s very important to make sure that you are remembering that different plants will always need different amounts of nutrients at different times.
The Most Common Types Of Tree And Shrub Fertilizers Are
Slow Release Fertilizers
Slow-release fertilizers are made up of small particles that slowly release nutrients over time. They’re ideal for trees and shrubs that have shallow roots and require more frequent feeding than other plants.
Liquid Fertilizers
Liquid fertilizers are usually applied directly to the foliage of trees and shrubs. They may be used as a foliar spray or drench, or added to feeder trays.
Granular Fertilizers
Granular fertilizers are typically applied via a spreader or tiller. They’re great for trees and shrubs with deep roots and thick bark.
Compost
Compost is an excellent way to add nutrients to the soil. It can be used alone or mixed into mulch.
How Do You Choose A Fertilizer That Is Right For Your Plants?
Choosing the right fertilizer depends on many factors including the size of your trees and shrubs, their species, and where you live. It’s important to note that not all fertilizers are created equal.
There are two main categories of fertilizers: slow-release fertilizers and fast-acting fertilizers.
Slow-release fertilizers take longer to break down, so they won’t burn plants if they’re applied too early. However, they won’t deliver enough nutrients until later in the growing season. This means that they must be applied every few weeks throughout the year.
Fast-acting fertilizers are perfect for those who want immediate results. They contain high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which help plants grow quickly. Unfortunately, they won’t last very long once applied.
If you’re unsure whether a particular fertilizer will work for your trees and shrubs or not, it’s always wise to test it out before applying. Simply mix a bit of the fertilizer with water and apply it to a leaf or stem.
Wait 24 hours and see how the plant reacts. If it looks healthy and green, then you’re good to go!
The Three Ways You Can Apply Fertilizer To Trees And Shrubs Properly
There are three ways to apply fertilizer to trees and shrubs: by hand, using a spreader, or through a tiller. Each method has advantages and disadvantages.
By Hand
This is probably the easiest option. Simply scoop up a handful of fertilizer and sprinkle it onto the leaves or stems of your trees and shrub. The amount of fertilizer needed varies depending on the size of your trees, but it’s generally safe to apply 1/4 cup per gallon of water.
Spreaders
This is one of the best options for large trees and shrubs because it allows you to apply fertilizer evenly across the entire surface of the plant.
A spreader consists of a hopper that holds the fertilizer, a rotating auger that dispenses the fertilizer, and a hose attached to the augur. This type of spreader works well for spreading fertilizer around larger areas like lawns, gardens, and parks.
Tillers
A tillage tool is similar to a garden hoe. It’s designed specifically for planting seeds, transplanting seedlings, and preparing the ground for new trees and shrubs.
Tillers come in different sizes and shapes, but most have a blade at the front end and a handle at the back. Some models also have wheels that allow them to roll over hard surfaces like concrete sidewalks.
You can use a tillage tool to apply fertilizer directly to the root zone of your trees and shrubs. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using this type of tool.
When choosing between these methods, consider what kind of fertilizer you need and where you plan to apply it. For example, if you’re planning to apply fertilizer to your lawn, then a tiller may be the better choice.
On the other hand, if you’re going to apply fertilizer to your tree trunks, then you’ll likely want to use a spreader.
How To Correctly Apply Your Fertilizer To Your Trees And Shrubs
You should apply your fertilizer according to the instructions that came with it. You may need to reapply it every few months depending on how much water your plants receive. Follow these steps when applying your fertilizer:
Step One
Mix your fertilizer thoroughly before application. However, if you happen to have fertilizer that comes in a ready-to-use bottle, then you can alternatively opt to thoroughly shake your fertilizer prior to using it.
Step Two
Make sure that you apply it evenly across all surfaces of your tree and shrub.
It’s very important that you are making sure to evenly distribute your fertilizer across the entirety of the soil, otherwise, you might not reach all the roots and, in turn, reduce the efficacy of the fertilizer that you are using for your trees or shrubs.
Step Three
Never apply fertilizer directly onto soil. Instead, mix it with compost or mulch and apply it to the surface of the soil.
This is especially true for trees and shrubs, as you will need to make sure that you are applying the fertilizer directly into the root zones, which has a higher risk of causing damage if wrongly applied.
Step Four
When applying fertilizer to your shrubs and trees (or any other foliage, for that matter), it’s very important that you make sure that you do not overdo it. Too much fertilizer can cause problems such as nutrient burn or even root rot!
To ensure that you don’t add too much, we recommend following the instructions provided by the manufacturer, which you will usually be able to find located on the back of the bottle.
Step Five
If you plan on fertilizing your trees and shrubs more than once throughout the year, then you should consider buying a fertilizer booster. These products contain nutrients that help boost the effectiveness of your fertilizer.
You can also use a fertilizer booster if you are a food stick or fertilizer that does not require the need of regular feeding every 1-2 weeks – there are many fertilizers on the market that only require topping up once over the course of 12 months!
Additional Advice For Fertilizing Trees and Shrubs
Make Sure You Have Enough Water
Fertilizing trees and shrubs requires lots of water. In fact, watering should be done twice as often during the spring and summer months than during winter.
Don’t Overwater Your Plants
It’s important to avoid overwatering your trees and shrubs because this can lead to rot. Instead, water your trees and shrubs only when absolutely necessary.
Keep an Eye Out For Signs Of Disease
If you notice any signs of disease such as yellowing leaves, wilting, or brown spots, then immediately contact a professional arborist.
Be Careful With Pesticides
Pesticides shouldn’t be used near trees and shrubs unless they’ve been approved for use near plants.
Avoid Using Too Much Fertilizer
Too much fertilizer can cause problems such as stunted growth, discoloration, and even death.
Check For Insect Infestations
Insect infestations can occur if you don’t keep an eye out for pests. If you see insects eating away at your trees and shrubs, then get rid of them immediately.
Apply Fertilizer At Least 2 Weeks Before Planting
Applying fertilizer before planting ensures that your trees and shrubs will receive enough nutrients to grow strong and healthy.
Wait Until Fall To Prune And Mulch
Pruning and mulching are two ways to help protect your trees and shrubs from damage caused by cold temperatures.
Alongside fertilizing during optimum seasons throughout the year (spring and fall) we also recommend that you regularly prune and mulch your soil in order to maintain its health.
Consider Adding Organic Matter
Organic matter helps improve the overall health of your soil. By adding organic matter to your soil, you can ensure that your trees and shrub roots have access to all the nutrients they need.
Choose A Good Location
Choose a location that is well-drained and free of harsh weather conditions. Also, choose a spot with plenty of sunlight.
Consider Adding A Tree Protector
Tree protectors provide additional protection against frost, snow, wind, and ice damage. They can also prevent soil erosion and improve air circulation.
Fertilize during optimum seasons
Spring fertilization helps ensure that trees and shrubs grow strong roots and leaves throughout the year. Make sure that you check what the optimum fertilizing times are for your trees/shrubs.
Maintain Proper Soil Moisture Levels
Maintaining proper soil moisture levels is essential for growing healthy trees and shrubs. When the soil dries out, it becomes more susceptible to diseases and insect infestations.
Choose The Right Tool For The Job
The right tools can help you achieve optimal results with your trees and shrubs while saving time and effort. As you will have seen from the list that we have talked you through above, there are a variety of different tools that you can use to help fertilize your tree and shrub soil.
You even have the option of using your hands if you desire!
Know What Type Of Fertilizer Is Suitable For Your Needs
Different types of fertilizer have different purposes and applications. For example, some fertilizers work well on grassy areas, whereas others work best on wooded areas. Knowing what type of fertilizer works best for your needs will save you money and time.
Don’t Overdo It
Overfertilizing can lead to nutrient burn. This means that your trees and shrubby may not grow as fast or as large as they could be.
Be Patient With Results
Fertilization takes several months to take effect. You should expect to notice changes within 6-12 weeks. However, this time frame can vary depending on the type of fertilizer you use.
Keep An Eye Out For Pests
If you notice any signs of pest infestation such as mites, aphids, or caterpillars, then get rid of these pests immediately.
Understand That Different Types Of Plants Require Different Amounts Of Nutrients
Last but not least, keep in mind that some plants require more nutrients than others. If you want to feed your trees and shrubs properly, then make sure that you know which plant requires how much fertilizer.
The Best Time Of Year To Fertilize Trees And Shrubs
Even though it’s very important to make sure that you are using the correct kind of fertilizer, not to mention making sure that you’re using the correct amount, it’s also worth noting that you should fertilize your trees and shrubs during optimum times of the year, too!
So, with that being said, before you go ahead and start saturating your tree and shrub’s soil with fertilizer, it’s a very good idea to figure out the best way to determine the best time to feed your shrubs is going to be.
By doing so, you will help to ensure that the fertilizer that you add to the soil will be able to ensure maximum efficacy. Here is a breakdown of some of the best times to fertilize trees and shrubs:
In The Spring
If you are looking to fertilize your trees and plants during springtime, then you should know that this is when they are going to be at their peak growth stage. As such, you should be able to see the results of your efforts within just a few weeks after you apply the fertilizer.
During this period, you should be able to pick among the following three types of fertilizers:
Nitrogen-Rich fertilizers
These include nitrogen-based fertilizers, which contain nitrogen as their main ingredient. They are usually used by homeowners who are trying to promote healthy foliage growth on their trees and shrubs. However, they are also known to cause brown leaves and stunted growth.
Phosphorus-Rich fertilizers
If you want to encourage lush green foliage growth on your trees and shrubs, then you should look into phosphorus-rich fertilizers. These are typically made up of phosphorus, which is an essential nutrient for plant growth and development.
Potassium-Rich Fertilizers
This includes potassium-based fertilizers, or K-fertilizers, which are often recommended by professional landscapers. They are used to promote strong roots and vigorous growth.
In The Fall
If you are interested in feeding your trees and shrubs in the fall, then you should know there are two major benefits that you will get from doing so.
First off, your trees and shrubs will be in full bloom during this season, which means that you will have more than enough reason to show them off. Second, you will be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor come wintertime.
When it comes to selecting the right type of fertilizer for the fall, you should choose one that contains both nitrogen and phosphate. Nitrogen is an essential element for promoting flowering and fruiting, while phosphate promotes root health.
Here is a breakdown of some of the best kinds of fertilizer that you can use on your trees and shrubs during the fall:
Calcium-Rich Fertilizers
Calcium-rich fertilizers are great for encouraging new growth and helping to prevent disease. They are also considered to be beneficial for promoting leaf coloration.
Iron-Rich Fertilizers
Iron-rich fertilizers are also commonly used by homeowners who want to promote healthy foliage growth. They are especially useful for trees and shrubs that are located in areas where iron levels tend to be low.
Magnesium-Rich Fertilizers
Magnesium-rich fertilizers are another popular choice for promoting healthy foliage growth. They work well for trees and shrubs located in areas where magnesium levels tend to be low, but they can also be used for those located in areas where magnesium tends to be high.
Zinc-Rich Fertilizers
Zinc-rich fertilizers are also very effective for promoting healthy foliage growth on trees and shrubs. They are especially helpful for those located in areas with zinc levels that are lower than average.
When it comes to applying fertilizer, you should do so either in late summer or early autumn. Doing so will allow you to reap all the rewards that you can expect to receive. Still, you also have the option of fertilizing your trees and shrubs in the winter, which brings us to our next section.
In The Winter
If you are planning to fertilize your trees or shrubs during the winter, then you should know this isn’t the most ideal time to fertilize, although it is still possible if you feel that it is absolutely necessary.
The problem with this approach is that you run the risk of having your trees and shrubs lose their leaves, which could result in less sunlight reaching the ground.
As such, you should only fertilize your trees and bushes when temperatures are above freezing. In addition, you should avoid fertilizing your trees and shrubs when they are experiencing any sort of drought stress.
Here are some of the best kinds of fertilizers that you can use when it comes to wintertime care:
Wood Ash
Wood ash is considered to be one of the best fertilizers for trees and shrubs because it helps to improve soil pH levels. It also has a high concentration of calcium, magnesium, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, molybdenum, and sulfur.
Bone Meal
Bone meal is another popular choice for those looking to feed their trees and shrubs during the winter. It is rich in phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and other nutrients.
Sulfur
Sulfur is a very important component of many fertilizers. It is especially useful for improving the overall appearance of plants.
Molasses
Molasses is another great option for those who want to feed their trees and bushes during the winter. It’s rich in carbohydrates, minerals, proteins, vitamins, and trace elements.
As a side note, if you notice that your trees and shrubs are responding poorly to the fertilizer, then you may need to switch up your strategy. For example, you may find that using a combination of different types of fertilizers works better than relying on just one.
Final Thoughts
There we have it! You’ve made it to the end. Now that you’ve taken the time to read the above, we’re hoping that you’ve found the perfect tree and shrub fertilizer for you.
When you’ve decided which fertilizer to use, you can start applying it right away – just make sure that you are following the directions on the package carefully.
Alongside making sure to read the instructions, you should also keep in mind that the best time to apply fertilizer is during the spring and early fall months, especially if you want maximum efficacy.
As a final parting note, before you click-off, why don’t you consider bookmarking this guide? That way, if you ever need to come back and refresh your knowledge on tree and shrub fertilizers, you will know exactly where to find us!
We hope that this guide has been of assistance to you, thank you for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do Fertilizers Do?
Fertilizers help plants grow by supplying essential elements such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca). These nutrients are used by growing plants to produce energy and build healthy tissues.
There are a variety of different fertilizers on the market, and they can each be used to treat a variety of different things, including lack of nutrients, growth issues, as well as overall health.
How Long Does It Take For My Trees And Shrubs To Get Fertilized?
It depends on how often you fertilize your trees and shrubs. If you fertilize once every two weeks, then it could take three to four months before you see any results.
However, if you fertilize once per week, then you might not notice any changes until six to eight weeks after you first applied fertilizer.
How Many Times Should I Fertilize My Trees and Shrubs?
The number of times you fertilize your trees or shrubs varies depending on the type of fertilizer you choose and the size of your trees and shrubs, but generally speaking, you should fertilize your trees and/or shrubs twice per year.
When fertilizing your trees and shrubs with liquid fertilizer, you should apply an approximately one-quarter cup of fertilizer per plant. This amount should cover all the leaves and stems of your trees and shrubs.
When Shouldn’t You Use Tree and Shrub Fertilizer?
Even though there are plenty of benefits to using fertilizer, it should be noted that there might be some instances when you should refrain from using one – even if it’s just temporarily.
One of the most common instances that you should not use fertilizer is if your tree or shrub in question has recently undergone trauma or become damaged in some way.
If you were to add fertilizer into the soil, this could cause the roots to work extra hard to absorb the fertilizer, and this cold, in turn, has an adverse effect on the tree or shrub that you are trying to add fertilizer to.
Is It Safe to Fertilize My Trees and Bushes?
Yes! It’s perfectly fine to fertilize your trees and bushes. The reason we say this is that the majority of fertilizers are made up of natural ingredients. They’re also very low in toxicity, so you won’t have to worry about poisoning your trees and shrubs either.
However, despite the fact that tree and shrub fertilizers are designed to be fortifying to your plants and made of entirely natural ingredients, it is still worth keeping in mind that there are a variety of different fertilizers currently on the market that aren’t going to be the best for your trees and shrubs.
For this reason, we recommend that you make sure to check what the ingredients are prior to purchasing anything, as well as try to read the reviews to see what the customers are saying about the fertilizer that you are considering purchasing for your trees/shrub.
How Do I Know How Much Fertilizer My Trees Need?
It depends on the species of tree and the soil conditions. Generally speaking, you can estimate the amount of fertilizer needed based on the size of the tree. For example, a small apple tree needs 2-3 gallons of fertilizer while a large oak tree will require 4-5 gallons of fertilizer.
You can also get more information by visiting our article on how to fertilize your trees.
Should I Fertilize My Plants Every Time I Water Them?
As we have established in this guide, fertilizing your plants is incredibly important. Especially if you want your plants to grow in a healthy manner. However, it is also very important that you do not over fertilize your trees or shrubs as this could also be damaging for their health.
This is the reason you shouldn’t fertilize your plants every time that you water them. Instead, you should follow the instructions for the specific fertilizer that you have bought, and fertilize them in line with these instructions.