The Best 10 Evergreen Fertilizers for a Lush, Healthy Landscape in 2025

Picture your backyard: once-lush evergreens now sport yellowing needles, sparse branches, and a lackluster vibe that dims your landscape’s charm. It’s frustrating, isn’t it? Struggling to keep your pines, firs, or cedars vibrant can feel like a losing battle, especially when poor soil or harsh weather saps their strength. The solution? Choosing the best 10 evergreen fertilizer options to restore their health and beauty. In this guide, we’ve researched top-rated products to simplify your buying decision, ensuring your evergreens thrive with minimal effort. Get ready to transform your landscape with our expert-curated list!

Why Choosing the Right Evergreen Fertilizer Matters

Evergreens, like pines, spruces, and hollies, have unique nutritional needs that generic fertilizers often fail to meet. Nitrogen fuels lush foliage, phosphorus strengthens roots, and potassium boosts resilience against drought and disease. Using the wrong fertilizer can lead to nutrient imbalances, burning delicate roots, or stunted growth, leaving your trees vulnerable. Specialized evergreen fertilizers, tailored to these needs, promote vibrant needles, robust root systems, and year-round beauty. Whether your evergreens are acid-loving (like rhododendrons) or neutral-soil dwellers (like cedars), the right fertilizer ensures long-term health and a stunning landscape. Let’s dive into our top picks to help you choose wisely.

How We Chose the Best 10 Evergreen Fertilizers

To create this authoritative list, we analyzed current 2025 Amazon best-seller lists, customer reviews, and expert recommendations from trusted sources like The Spruce and BobVila. Our criteria focused on:

• Effectiveness: Balanced NPK ratios (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) optimized for evergreen growth.
• Ease of Use: Simple application methods (spikes, granular, liquid) for all gardeners.
• Price-Value Ratio: Affordable options with ample coverage.
• Customer Feedback: High ratings and consistent positive reviews on Amazon.
• Suitability: Formulas tailored for evergreens, including acid-loving varieties.

We prioritized products with proven results, ensuring impartiality and real-world applicability. This rigorous process guarantees our recommendations for the best 10 evergreen fertilizers meet your needs.

The Best 10 Evergreen Fertilizers: Detailed Reviews and Comparison

Product 1: Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes

• Compelling Description: Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes are a game-changer for busy gardeners seeking vibrant evergreens without the hassle. These slow-release spikes deliver a steady stream of nutrients directly to the root zone, promoting lush, green foliage and strong root systems. Designed for deciduous and evergreen trees, they’re perfect for pines, cedars, and junipers, ensuring your landscape stays stunning all year. With no mixing or measuring required, these spikes are ideal for those who want set-it-and-forget-it convenience.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $14.88
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 15-5-10: High nitrogen for vibrant foliage, balanced with phosphorus and potassium for root and overall health.
  • Slow-Release Formula: Feeds consistently for up to 3 months, reducing application frequency.
  • Easy Application: Simply hammer spikes into the soil near the tree’s drip line.
  • Versatile: Suitable for in-ground evergreens and shrubs, including acid-loving plants like hydrangeas.
• Pros:
  • Hassle-free, no-mess application.
  • Promotes noticeable growth and greener needles within weeks.
  • Long-lasting, reducing maintenance time.
• Cons:
  • Not ideal for container-grown evergreens due to spike design.
  • Slightly pricier per application compared to granular options.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.6/5 stars from 2,500+ reviews. Users praise the ease of use and visible improvements in tree vigor, with many noting brighter foliage within a month. Some report inconsistent results in sandy soils, requiring additional soil amendments.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: These spikes offer reliable, low-maintenance feeding, making them a top pick for homeowners who want consistent results without frequent applications.
• Ideal Use Case: Best for in-ground evergreens like pines, cedars, or junipers in suburban landscapes with moderate maintenance schedules.

Product 2: Dr. Earth Organic and Natural Acid Lovers Fertilizer

• Compelling Description: Dr. Earth Organic Acid Lovers Fertilizer is a premium choice for eco-conscious gardeners nurturing acid-loving evergreens like hollies, azaleas, and rhododendrons. This organic blend, packed with beneficial microbes, not only feeds your trees but also enhances soil health for sustainable growth. Its acidifying properties ensure optimal nutrient uptake, delivering vibrant foliage and robust blooms. Perfect for organic gardens, this fertilizer is safe for pets and people, making it a guilt-free choice for a thriving landscape.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $16.97
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 3-4-3: Balanced for acid-loving evergreens, promoting foliage and root growth.
  • Organic with Microbes: Includes probiotics to improve soil microbiome and nutrient absorption.
  • Acidifying Formula: Lowers soil pH, ideal for evergreens like pines and camellias.
  • Slow-Release: Provides sustained feeding for 2–3 months.
• Pros:
  • Safe for pets, children, and the environment.
  • Enhances long-term soil health.
  • Versatile for mixed plantings, including blueberries and azaleas.
• Cons:
  • Requires more frequent applications than synthetic options.
  • Mild odor during application, which may bother sensitive users.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.5/5 stars from 1,800+ reviews. Gardeners love the organic composition and vibrant results, especially for acid-loving evergreens. Some note slower initial effects compared to synthetic fertilizers.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: Perfect for sustainable gardeners prioritizing soil health and organic practices, delivering consistent results for acid-loving evergreens.
• Ideal Use Case: Organic gardens with acid-loving evergreens or mixed plantings, especially in eco-friendly households.

Product 3: Scotts Evergreen Flowering Tree & Shrub Continuous Release Plant Food

• Compelling Description: From the trusted Scotts brand, this continuous-release fertilizer is a budget-friendly powerhouse for evergreens and flowering shrubs. Its granular formula delivers a steady nutrient supply, promoting lush foliage and strong roots for trees like spruces and yews. Easy to apply and effective for up to two months, it’s a go-to for homeowners seeking reliable results without breaking the bank. This fertilizer ensures your evergreens stay vibrant, even in challenging climates.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $25.90
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 11-7-7: Balanced nutrients for foliage, root strength, and overall tree health.
  • Continuous Release: Feeds for up to 2 months, reducing reapplication needs.
  • Broad Application: Suitable for evergreens, flowering shrubs, and trees like magnolias.
  • Affordable: High coverage at a low cost per pound.
• Pros:
  • Cost-effective for large landscapes.
  • Easy-to-apply granular formula.
  • Trusted brand with proven results.
• Cons:
  • Synthetic formula, not suitable for organic gardens.
  • Requires careful application to avoid root burn.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.4/5 stars from 3,000+ reviews. Users appreciate the affordability and noticeable growth, with many reporting greener needles. Some mention clumping in humid conditions, requiring dry storage.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: An economical choice for reliable evergreen care, ideal for gardeners on a budget who don’t mind synthetic formulas.
• Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with large evergreen landscapes or mixed shrub beds seeking cost-effective, low-maintenance solutions.

Product 4: Jobe’s Organics Annuals and Perennials Fertilizer (Evergreen-Suitable)

• Compelling Description: Jobe’s Organics Annuals and Perennials Fertilizer is a standout for gardeners who value sustainability and vibrant evergreens. This OMRI-certified organic formula, enriched with Biozome microbes, nourishes trees like junipers and yews while improving soil health for long-term benefits. Its balanced nutrients promote steady growth and lush foliage, making it versatile for mixed plantings. Perfect for eco-conscious households, this fertilizer delivers reliable results without synthetic chemicals, ensuring your evergreens thrive naturally.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $10.33 
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 3-5-4: Supports root development, foliage growth, and overall tree vigor.
  • Biozome Microbes: Enhances soil structure and nutrient uptake for sustainable growth.
  • OMRI-Certified: Meets strict organic standards, safe for pets and people.
  • Versatile Application: Ideal for evergreens, perennials, and annuals in mixed beds.
• Pros:
  • Environmentally friendly and safe for organic gardening.
  • Improves soil health over time, reducing future fertilizer needs.
  • Easy-to-apply granular formula.
• Cons:
  • Slower results compared to synthetic fertilizers.
  • Slightly higher cost due to organic certification.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.5/5 stars from 1,500+ reviews. Users praise its organic benefits and noticeable improvements in plant vigor, though some note a mild odor during application.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This fertilizer is ideal for gardeners committed to organic practices, offering a sustainable solution for evergreen health.
• Ideal Use Case: Eco-friendly gardens with mixed evergreen and perennial beds, especially for environmentally conscious homeowners.

Product 5: GARDENWISE 8-4-8 Acidic Fertilizer

• Compelling Description: GARDENWISE 8-4-8 Acidic Fertilizer is a specialized formula crafted for acid-loving evergreens like magnolias, gardenias, and azaleas. Its nutrient-rich blend, fortified with iron, delivers vivid needle color and robust growth, making it a favorite for gardeners aiming for standout landscapes. The granular formula is easy to apply, and its acidifying properties optimize soil pH for maximum nutrient absorption, ensuring your evergreens thrive in challenging conditions.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $32.75
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 8-4-8: High nitrogen and potassium with iron for vibrant foliage and resilience.
  • Acidifying Formula: Lowers soil pH, perfect for acid-loving evergreens.
  • Compact Packaging: Concentrated formula covers moderate areas efficiently.
  • Quick Results: Visible improvements in needle color within weeks.
• Pros:
  • Tailored for acid-loving evergreens, enhancing color and growth.
  • Easy-to-apply granules with precise instructions.
  • Includes iron for extra foliage vibrancy.
• Cons:
  • Smaller quantity for the price, less economical for large landscapes.
  • Requires careful application to avoid over-fertilization.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.3/5 stars from 900+ reviews. Customers value its effectiveness for acid-loving plants, with many reporting brighter foliage. Some note limited coverage for larger gardens.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: Specialized for evergreens requiring acidic soil, this fertilizer ensures optimal growth for specific tree types.
• Ideal Use Case: Gardens with acid-loving evergreens like azaleas, camellias, or rhododendrons in small to medium-sized landscapes.

Product 6: Espoma Holly-Tone Organic Plant Food

• Compelling Description: Espoma Holly-Tone is a trusted organic fertilizer designed for acid-loving evergreens like hollies, pines, and spruces. Its natural formula, enriched with Bio-tone microbes, promotes deep green foliage and strong root systems while improving soil health. Perfect for gardeners who prioritize eco-friendly solutions, Holly-Tone delivers consistent results, making evergreens the centerpiece of any landscape. Its granular form is easy to spread, offering a hassle-free way to keep your trees thriving.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $38.99
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 4-3-4: Balanced for acid-loving evergreens, supporting foliage and root growth.
  • Bio-tone Microbes: Enhances soil biology for better nutrient uptake.
  • Organic and Safe: OMRI-listed, pet- and child-friendly.
  • Long-Lasting: Feeds for up to 6 weeks per application.
• Pros:
  • Organic and environmentally safe.
  • Improves soil health for sustainable gardening.
  • Widely trusted brand with proven results.
• Cons:
  • May require more frequent applications in nutrient-poor soils.
  • Slightly slower to show results compared to synthetic options.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.6/5 stars from 2,000+ reviews. Gardeners rave about its effectiveness for hollies and azaleas, though some mention a noticeable odor during application.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: A reliable organic option for acid-loving evergreens, balancing immediate results with long-term soil benefits.
• Ideal Use Case: Organic gardeners with acid-loving evergreens like hollies or pines in residential or small commercial landscapes.

Product 7: Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food Flower & Vegetable

• Compelling Description: Osmocote Smart-Release Plant Food is a versatile, high-performance fertilizer suitable for evergreens and a wide range of plants. Its smart-release technology delivers nutrients gradually, ensuring steady growth for trees like cedars and firs. Ideal for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance solution, this granular fertilizer supports lush foliage and robust roots, making it a go-to for mixed landscapes. Its durability in various weather conditions ensures consistent results.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $20.77
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 14-14-14: Balanced nutrients for foliage, roots, and overall health.
  • Smart-Release Technology: Feeds for up to 4 months, reducing application frequency.
  • Broad Use: Suitable for evergreens, vegetables, and flowers.
  • Weather-Resilient: Performs well in diverse climates.
• Pros:
  • Long-lasting, reducing maintenance efforts.
  • High coverage for large landscapes.
  • Consistent nutrient release for steady growth.
• Cons:
  • Synthetic formula, not ideal for organic gardens.
  • Higher upfront cost, though economical long-term.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.5/5 stars from 3,500+ reviews. Users praise its longevity and versatility, though some note it’s less effective for acid-loving evergreens without soil amendments.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: Perfect for gardeners managing diverse plantings with minimal upkeep, offering long-term feeding for evergreens.
• Ideal Use Case: Large landscapes with mixed evergreens, flowers, and vegetables, especially for low-maintenance gardeners.

Product 8: Farmer’s Secret Fruit & Bloom Booster

• Compelling Description: Farmer’s Secret Fruit & Bloom Booster is a liquid concentrate that delivers a potent nutrient punch for evergreens and flowering shrubs. Designed to enhance foliage vibrancy and root strength, this fertilizer is ideal for gardeners who prefer liquid applications for quick absorption. Its concentrated formula ensures efficient use, making it a great choice for container-grown evergreens or small landscapes aiming for rapid results.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price:  $22.99
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 5-10-10: High phosphorus and potassium for root and foliage health.
  • Liquid Concentrate: Mixes easily with water for quick application.
  • Fast-Acting: Nutrients absorb rapidly for visible results in days.
  • Versatile: Suitable for evergreens, fruit trees, and blooming plants.
• Pros:
  • Quick results, ideal for addressing nutrient deficiencies.
  • Easy to apply with watering cans or sprayers.
  • Effective for container and in-ground evergreens.
• Cons:
  • Higher cost per application compared to granular options.
  • Requires regular applications (every 2–4 weeks).
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.4/5 stars from 1,200+ reviews. Customers love the fast results and ease of use, though some find the mixing process tedious.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: A fast-acting solution for gardeners needing immediate evergreen improvements, especially in smaller settings.
• Ideal Use Case: Container-grown evergreens or small gardens with evergreens and flowering plants needing quick nutrient boosts.

Product 9: Schultz Evergreen, Tree & Shrub Slow-Release Plant Food

• Compelling Description: Schultz Evergreen, Tree & Shrub Slow-Release Plant Food is a reliable choice for gardeners seeking a no-fuss fertilizer for their evergreens. Its slow-release granules provide steady nutrition, promoting lush needles and strong roots for trees like spruces and arborvitae. Affordable and easy to apply, this fertilizer is perfect for homeowners looking to maintain healthy evergreens without frequent upkeep, ensuring a vibrant landscape with minimal effort.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $14.00
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 16-6-12: High nitrogen for foliage, balanced with potassium for resilience.
  • Slow-Release: Feeds for up to 3 months, minimizing reapplication.
  • Broad Application: Suitable for evergreens, trees, and shrubs.
  • Affordable: High value for budget-conscious gardeners.
• Pros:
  • Budget-friendly with good coverage.
  • Simple application for novice gardeners.
  • Promotes consistent evergreen growth.
• Cons:
  • Synthetic formula, not suitable for organic gardening.
  • May require soil testing for acid-loving evergreens.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.3/5 stars from 1,000+ reviews. Users appreciate the affordability and ease, though some note slower results in poor soils.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: An economical, low-maintenance option for reliable evergreen care, ideal for budget-conscious gardeners.
• Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with medium to large evergreen landscapes seeking affordable, low-effort solutions.

Product 10: BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed

• Compelling Description: BioAdvanced Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed is a dual-action granular fertilizer that nourishes evergreens while protecting against pests like aphids and spider mites. Perfect for gardeners wanting a two-in-one solution, this product promotes lush foliage and robust growth for trees like cedars and pines while safeguarding against common threats. Its long-lasting formula ensures your evergreens stay healthy and pest-free for months.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price:  $75.98
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 2-1-1: Balanced nutrients with slow-release feeding.
  • Pest Protection: Controls insects for up to 12 months.
  • Systemic Action: Absorbed through roots for comprehensive protection.
  • Easy Application: Granular form spreads easily around tree bases.
• Pros:
  • Combines fertilization with pest control, saving time.
  • Long-lasting protection and feeding.
  • Effective for a wide range of evergreens.
• Cons:
  • Synthetic formula, not ideal for organic gardens.
  • Low NPK may require supplemental feeding for nutrient-hungry trees.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: ~4.4/5 stars from 1,700+ reviews. Gardeners praise its dual-action benefits, though some note limited nutrient strength for large evergreens.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: Ideal for gardeners seeking a convenient solution for both nutrition and pest protection in evergreen care.
• Ideal Use Case: Landscapes with evergreens prone to pests, such as pines or arborvitae, in regions with high insect activity.

Comparison Table: Top 10 Evergreen Fertilizers

How to Choose the Best Evergreen Fertilizer for Your Needs

• Evergreen Type: Match the fertilizer to your trees’ needs. Acid-loving evergreens (e.g., hollies, azaleas) thrive with acidifying formulas like Dr. Earth or Espoma Holly-Tone, while neutral-soil trees (e.g., cedars) suit Osmocote or Scotts.
• Application Preference: Choose spikes (Miracle-Gro) for minimal effort, granules (Schultz, Scotts) for broad coverage, or liquids (Farmer’s Secret) for fast results.
• Budget and Coverage: Affordable options like Scotts or Schultz cover large areas, while pricier choices like Farmer’s Secret suit smaller gardens.
• Organic vs. Synthetic: Organic options (Jobe’s, Dr. Earth) prioritize sustainability, while synthetic ones (Osmocote, Miracle-Gro) offer faster results.
• Soil Testing: Test soil pH to ensure compatibility, especially for acid-loving evergreens. Kits are available on Amazon for ~$10–$20.
• Expert Tip: Apply fertilizers in spring or fall for optimal absorption, and follow package instructions to avoid over-fertilization.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fertilizing Evergreens

• Over-Fertilizing: Excess fertilizer can burn roots or cause needle drop. Stick to recommended doses.
• Using Generic Fertilizers: Lawn or vegetable fertilizers may lack the specific nutrients evergreens need.
• Ignoring Soil pH: Acid-loving evergreens require pH below 6.5; test soil to avoid nutrient lockout.
• Applying in Extreme Conditions: Avoid fertilizing during drought or heatwaves, as it reduces effectiveness and stresses trees.
• Solution: Use a soil test kit, follow seasonal timing (spring/fall), and choose evergreen-specific formulas to ensure success.

FAQs About Evergreen Fertilizers

• How often should I fertilize my evergreens?
  Most evergreens need fertilizing 1–2 times per year (spring and fall). Slow-release formulas (e.g., Osmocote, Miracle-Gro) may require fewer applications.
• Can I use lawn fertilizer on evergreens?
  Avoid lawn fertilizers, as their high nitrogen content can burn evergreen roots or disrupt nutrient balance. Use evergreen-specific products instead.
• What’s the best time of year to fertilize evergreens?
  Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are ideal for nutrient absorption and root growth.
• Are organic fertilizers better for evergreens?
  Organic fertilizers (e.g., Dr. Earth, Jobe’s) improve soil health and are eco-friendly but may act slower. Synthetic options offer faster results but lack long-term soil benefits.
• How do I know if my evergreen needs fertilizer?
  Yellowing needles, slow growth, or sparse foliage indicate nutrient deficiencies. A soil test can confirm specific needs.

Conclusion

The best 10 evergreen fertilizers offer tailored solutions for vibrant, healthy trees, whether you’re nurturing acid-loving hollies or resilient cedars. From budget-friendly Scotts Evergreen to organic Dr. Earth and dual-action BioAdvanced, our curated list ensures there’s a perfect fit for every gardener. Choose based on your evergreen type, budget, and maintenance preferences to achieve a lush, thriving landscape. Don’t wait—shop these top-rated fertilizers on Amazon today and transform your evergreens into stunning focal points. Your vibrant, healthy landscape is just a fertilizer away!