Best 10 Fertilizers for Holly Bushes in 2025: Top Picks for Vibrant Growth and Berries

Are your holly bushes looking lackluster, with yellowing leaves or sparse berries? The secret to lush, vibrant holly bushes lies in choosing the best 10 fertilizers for holly bushes. These acid-loving plants require specific nutrients to thrive, but with countless options on the market, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide reviews the top 10 fertilizers for holly bushes, based on Amazon ratings, customer reviews, and expert insights, to help you make an informed choice for healthier, more vibrant shrubs. Our recommendations are backed by thorough research, including current Amazon data, user feedback, and gardening expertise, ensuring you find the perfect product for your holly bushes.

Why Fertilizing Holly Bushes Matters

Holly bushes, known for their glossy evergreen leaves and vibrant berries, are acid-loving plants that thrive in slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5). Proper fertilization provides essential nutrients like nitrogen (N) for lush foliage, phosphorus (P) for strong roots and berry production, and potassium (K) for disease resistance and overall vigor. Micronutrients such as iron and magnesium prevent yellowing leaves and support photosynthesis. Without adequate nutrition, holly bushes may exhibit yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or poor berry production. Fertilizing regularly ensures vibrant foliage, abundant berries, and resilience against pests and diseases, transforming your holly bushes into stunning garden features.

How We Chose the Best Fertilizers

To identify the best 10 fertilizers for holly bushes, we conducted a deep analysis of Amazon’s top-selling and highest-rated products as of August 2025, cross-referenced with gardening blogs and user feedback. Our selection criteria included:

• NPK Ratio: Formulations tailored for acid-loving plants (e.g., 4-3-4, 10-10-10).
• Organic vs. Synthetic: Options for eco-conscious gardeners and those seeking quick results.
• Amazon Ratings: Products with 4+ stars and high review volume for reliability.
• Price-to-Value: Affordable options with proven effectiveness.
• Ease of Application: User-friendly formats like granules, spikes, or liquids.
• User Intent: Prioritizing solutions for common holly issues like nutrient deficiencies or poor soil pH.

Our process ensures recommendations align with gardeners’ needs, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts, helping you choose a fertilizer that delivers results.

Top 10 Fertilizers for Holly Bushes: Detailed Reviews and Comparison

1. Espoma Organic Holly-Tone 4-3-4 (4 lb. Bag)

• Product Description: Espoma Organic Holly-Tone is the gold standard for acid-loving plants like holly bushes, azaleas, and rhododendrons. This organic granular fertilizer, formulated with a 4-3-4 NPK ratio and 5% sulfur, maintains the acidic soil environment holly bushes crave. Enriched with Bio-tone microbes, it enhances nutrient absorption and promotes long-term soil health. Its slow-release formula ensures steady feeding, reducing the risk of root burn while supporting vibrant foliage and berry production. Trusted by gardeners for decades, Espoma Holly-Tone is eco-friendly, safe for pets and kids, and approved for organic gardening.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $29.39
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 4-3-4 with 5% sulfur to maintain soil pH between 5.0–6.5.
  • Slow-release granules provide nutrients for 6–8 weeks.
  • Contains Bio-tone microbes to improve soil structure and nutrient uptake.
  • Organic, non-toxic, and safe for use around children and pets.
  • Suitable for a wide range of acid-loving plants, including blueberries and camellias.
• Pros:
  • Specifically formulated for holly bushes, ensuring optimal nutrient balance.
  • Easy to apply directly from the bag, no mixing required.
  • Long-lasting effects reduce the need for frequent applications.
  • Enhances berry production and foliage vibrancy, per user reviews.
• Cons:
  • Slightly more expensive than generic fertilizers.
  • Granular form may take a few weeks to show visible results compared to liquids.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.8/5 stars (700+ reviews). Customers praise its ability to revive yellowing holly bushes and boost berry production, with many noting greener leaves within weeks. Some mention the initial cost but agree the results justify the price. A few users report slower results in heavy clay soils.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: As a trusted name in organic gardening, Espoma Holly-Tone is tailored for acid-loving plants, making it the top choice for holly bushes. Its slow-release formula and microbial enrichment ensure consistent nutrition and soil health, ideal for gardeners seeking sustainable, long-term results.
• Ideal Use Case: Perfect for organic gardeners with established holly bushes or those looking to maintain vibrant foliage and berries in acidic soils.

2. Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food Spikes (12 Spikes)

• Product Description: Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food Spikes offer a convenient, mess-free solution for feeding holly bushes and other evergreens. These pre-measured spikes deliver a balanced NPK formula directly to the root zone, promoting lush foliage and strong root development. Designed for once-per-season application, they’re ideal for busy gardeners who want a low-maintenance option. While not specifically formulated for acid-loving plants, the spikes provide essential nutrients that support holly health when soil pH is already balanced. With over 20,000 Amazon reviews, this product is a top seller for its ease and reliability.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $14.88
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • Balanced NPK formula optimized for trees and shrubs.
  • Spikes release nutrients directly to roots for up to 3 months.
  • Easy to insert into soil, no measuring or mixing required.
  • Promotes vibrant foliage and robust growth in evergreens.
• Pros:
  • Extremely user-friendly, ideal for beginners.
  • Long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent applications.
  • High purchase volume (4K+ bought in past month on Amazon).
  • Safe for plants when used as directed, minimizing burn risk.
• Cons:
  • Not tailored for acid-loving plants, requiring soil pH monitoring.
  • Less effective in dense or clay-heavy soils, per some reviews.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.6/5 stars (20,000+ reviews). Users love the ease of use and noticeable greening of shrubs within weeks. Some report inconsistent results in acidic soils, recommending a pH test before use.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: These spikes are perfect for gardeners seeking a low-effort, long-lasting fertilizer that delivers reliable results for holly bushes in well-balanced soils.
• Ideal Use Case: Best for busy gardeners or those with multiple shrubs needing a quick, hassle-free nutrient boost.

3. Jobe’s Organics Holly, Azalea & Rhododendron Fertilizer (10 lb. Bag)

• Product Description: Jobe’s Organics Holly, Azalea & Rhododendron Fertilizer is a water-soluble, organic granular fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants. With a 3-5-3 NPK ratio, it emphasizes phosphorus to support flowering and berry production, while Biozome microbes enhance soil health and nutrient absorption. This fast-acting formula is ideal for addressing nutrient deficiencies quickly, making it a go-to for reviving struggling holly bushes. Safe for pets and kids, it’s OMRI-listed for organic gardening and can be applied every 2–4 weeks for optimal results.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $19.22
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 3-5-3, high in phosphorus for blooms and berries.
  • Water-soluble granules dissolve quickly for rapid nutrient delivery.
  • Biozome microbes improve soil microbial activity and health.
  • Organic and eco-friendly, safe for kids, pets, and the environment.
  • Suitable for large holly bushes or mixed acid-loving plant gardens.
• Pros:
  • Fast-acting, showing results in days for nutrient-deficient plants.
  • Pet- and kid-friendly, ideal for family gardens.
  • Affordable for larger gardens or multiple shrubs.
  • Enhances berry production, per customer feedback.
• Cons:
  • Requires more frequent application (every 2–4 weeks).
  • May have a mild odor during application, noted by some users.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (900+ reviews). Gardeners praise its quick results in greening foliage and boosting berries, especially for larger holly bushes. Some mention the odor as a minor drawback but note it dissipates quickly.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This fertilizer balances fast results with organic safety, making it ideal for gardeners needing to quickly revive nutrient-depleted holly bushes or enhance berry production.
• Ideal Use Case: Gardeners with nutrient-poor soil or larger holly shrubs seeking a fast-acting, organic solution.

4. Scotts Evergreen Flowering Tree & Shrub Continuous Release Plant Food (3 lb.)

• Product Description: Scotts Evergreen Flowering Tree & Shrub Continuous Release Plant Food is a budget-friendly granular fertilizer designed for evergreens and flowering shrubs. Its balanced NPK formula provides steady nutrition for up to 2 months, supporting holly bushes with lush foliage and strong roots. While not specifically for acid-loving plants, it’s effective for holly bushes in neutral or slightly acidic soils (pH 6.0–7.0). Easy to apply directly from the bag, this fertilizer is a practical choice for small-scale gardeners looking for reliable results without breaking the bank.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $25.90
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • Balanced NPK formula for evergreen and shrub health.
  • Continuous-release granules feed for up to 2 months.
  • Easy application, no mixing or special tools needed.
  • Affordable for small gardens or budget-conscious gardeners.
• Pros:
  • Cost-effective, offering great value for small-scale use.
  • Safe for plants when applied as directed, no burn risk.
  • Widely available and highly rated for ease of use.
  • Supports consistent growth in healthy soils.
• Cons:
  • Not formulated for acid-loving plants, requiring pH adjustment.
  • Smaller bag size may not suffice for large holly bushes.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.6/5 stars (5,200+ reviews). Users appreciate the affordability and ease, with many reporting greener shrubs. Some note slower results for holly bushes in acidic soils, recommending a soil test.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This fertilizer is a great entry-level option for gardeners on a budget who need a reliable, no-fuss solution for smaller holly bushes.
• Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with a few holly bushes in neutral soils seeking a cost-effective, low-maintenance fertilizer.

5. Safer Brand 94AH Azalea & Holly Restore Fertilizer (4 lb.)

• Product Description: Safer Brand 94AH Azalea & Holly Restore Fertilizer is a premium organic granular fertilizer crafted for acid-loving plants like holly bushes. Its tailored NPK ratio, combined with beneficial microbes, supports optimal soil pH (5.0–6.5) and delivers essential nutrients for vibrant foliage and berries. This eco-conscious formula is OMRI-listed, ensuring safety for pets, kids, and the environment. Its slow-release granules provide steady nutrition for up to 6 weeks, promoting long-term soil health and plant vigor. Despite its higher price, it’s a favorite for gardeners prioritizing sustainability and targeted care.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $53.33
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK tailored for acid-loving plants, maintaining ideal soil pH.
  • Slow-release granules feed for 6 weeks, reducing application frequency.
  • Contains microbes to enhance soil structure and nutrient uptake.
  • Organic, eco-friendly, and safe for family gardens.
  • Ideal for azaleas, hollies, and other acid-loving shrubs.
• Pros:
  • Specifically designed for holly bushes, ensuring proper pH and nutrition.
  • Environmentally friendly with no harmful chemicals.
  • High customer satisfaction for improving foliage and berry vibrancy.
  • Easy to apply with clear instructions.
• Cons:
  • Limited stock availability (only 6 left as of August 2025 on Amazon).
  • Higher price point compared to mainstream brands.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 stars (100+ reviews). Users praise its effectiveness in maintaining acidic soil and reviving struggling holly bushes. Some note limited availability as a challenge but value the eco-friendly formula.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: Safer Brand’s targeted formula and organic credentials make it a top pick for environmentally conscious gardeners who want to ensure optimal soil conditions and vibrant holly growth.
• Ideal Use Case: Gardeners with acidic soils or those seeking a sustainable, organic fertilizer for holly bushes and other acid-loving plants.

6. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Azalea, Camellia, Rhododendron Plant Food (1.5 lb.)

• Product Description: Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Azalea, Camellia, Rhododendron Plant Food is a fast-acting liquid fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants like holly bushes. With a high-nitrogen 30-10-10 NPK ratio, it delivers an instant nutrient boost to address yellowing leaves and promote lush, green foliage. This water-soluble formula mixes easily with a watering can for precise application, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor holly bushes. While not organic, its quick results and affordability make it a popular choice for gardeners needing immediate improvements in plant health.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $19.16
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 30-10-10, high in nitrogen for rapid foliage greening.
  • Water-soluble formula for quick nutrient absorption.
  • Suitable for indoor potted hollies and outdoor shrubs.
  • Feeds plants instantly, ideal for addressing deficiencies.
  • Easy to apply with a standard watering can.
• Pros:
  • Fast results, with greener leaves in days, per user reviews.
  • Affordable and widely available on Amazon.
  • Versatile for multiple acid-loving plants.
  • Simple to use, even for novice gardeners.
• Cons:
  • Requires weekly application for sustained results.
  • Synthetic formula may not appeal to organic gardeners.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.6/5 stars (7,000+ reviews). Customers love its quick greening effects and ease of use, especially for struggling holly bushes. Some dislike the frequent application schedule but find the results worth it.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This fertilizer is ideal for gardeners needing a fast, affordable solution to revive yellowing or nutrient-deficient holly bushes with minimal effort.
• Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with underperforming holly bushes or indoor potted hollies needing an immediate nutrient boost.

7. Down to Earth Organic Rose & Flower Fertilizer (5 lb.)

• Product Description: Down to Earth Organic Rose & Flower Fertilizer is a versatile, organic granular fertilizer with a 4-8-4 NPK ratio, rich in phosphorus to support flowering and berry production in holly bushes. Made with natural ingredients like fishbone meal, alfalfa, and kelp, it promotes soil health and microbial activity while delivering essential nutrients. OMRI-listed for organic gardening, this fertilizer is safe for pets, kids, and edible plants. Its eco-friendly packaging and sustainable formula make it a favorite for gardeners managing mixed flower beds with holly bushes.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $64.29
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 4-8-4, high in phosphorus for blooms and berries.
  • Organic ingredients like fishbone meal and kelp enhance soil health.
  • Slow-release formula feeds for 6–8 weeks.
  • Safe for pets, kids, and edible plants.
  • Eco-friendly packaging reduces environmental impact.
• Pros:
  • Versatile for holly bushes, roses, and other flowering plants.
  • Organic and safe for family gardens.
  • Long-lasting nutrient release reduces application frequency.
  • Improves soil quality over time, per customer feedback.
• Cons:
  • May require soil pH adjustment for optimal holly performance.
  • Slower results compared to synthetic liquid fertilizers.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (500+ reviews). Users praise its organic quality and effectiveness in boosting blooms and berries. Some note gradual results but appreciate the soil health benefits.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This fertilizer is a great choice for organic gardeners seeking a sustainable, versatile option for holly bushes and mixed flower beds.
• Ideal Use Case: Eco-conscious gardeners with mixed gardens including hollies, roses, or other flowering shrubs.

8. TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Holly (3 lb.)

• Product Description: TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Holly is a specialized slow-release granular fertilizer designed exclusively for holly trees and shrubs. Its balanced NPK formula targets the specific needs of holly bushes, promoting robust root development, glossy foliage, and abundant berries. This fertilizer is ideal for both newly planted and established hollies, with a single application feeding for up to 6 months. Its targeted formula ensures optimal nutrient delivery without over-fertilizing, making it a niche but highly effective choice for holly enthusiasts.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $14.95
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • Balanced NPK formula tailored for holly-specific needs.
  • Slow-release nitrogen feeds for up to 6 months.
  • Treats one large holly tree or 2–3 small shrubs.
  • Promotes root strength and berry production.
  • Easy-to-follow instructions for precise application.
• Pros:
  • Highly specialized for holly bushes and trees.
  • Long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent applications.
  • Promotes long-term plant vitality, per user reviews.
  • Clear instructions for novice gardeners.
• Cons:
  • Higher shipping cost ($7.95 delivery as of August 2025).
  • Smaller quantity compared to competitors like Espoma.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.7/5 stars (100+ reviews). Customers appreciate the targeted formula and noticeable improvements in holly health. Some note the shipping cost as a drawback but value the specialized care.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This niche fertilizer is perfect for holly enthusiasts seeking a tailored solution for optimal plant health and longevity.
• Ideal Use Case: Gardeners with large or newly planted holly trees needing a specialized, long-lasting fertilizer.

9. BioAdvanced Shrub Care Protect & Feed (4 lb.)

• Product Description: BioAdvanced Shrub Care Protect & Feed is a dual-action granular fertilizer that nourishes holly bushes while protecting against common pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Its 10-18-9 NPK ratio, high in phosphorus, supports vibrant blooms and berries, while its insect-repelling formula provides up to 6 weeks of pest protection. This slow-release fertilizer feeds for up to 3 months, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners in pest-prone regions. Its all-in-one approach is ideal for holly bushes needing both nutrition and defense.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $24.96
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 10-18-9, phosphorus-rich for flowering and berry production.
  • Provides pest and disease protection for up to 6 weeks.
  • Slow-release granules feed for 3 months.
  • Easy to apply directly from the bag.
  • High Amazon purchase volume (600+ bought in past month).
• Pros:
  • Combines fertilization with pest control, saving time.
  • Long-lasting effects reduce application frequency.
  • Effective against common holly pests, per user reviews.
  • Suitable for a variety of shrubs beyond hollies.
• Cons:
  • Synthetic formula may not suit organic gardeners.
  • Higher price point due to dual-action benefits.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.6/5 stars (150+ reviews). Users value the pest protection and vibrant growth, especially in pest-heavy areas. Some prefer organic options but appreciate the convenience.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This fertilizer is ideal for gardeners in regions with pest issues, offering a convenient all-in-one solution for holly bush health.
• Ideal Use Case: Gardeners in pest-prone areas needing a dual-purpose fertilizer to nourish and protect holly bushes.

10. Covington 10-10-10 NPK Liquid Fertilizer (32 oz.)

• Product Description: Covington 10-10-10 NPK Liquid Fertilizer is a versatile, balanced liquid fertilizer made with food-grade ingredients, delivering equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for overall plant health. While not specifically for acid-loving plants, its low salt index prevents root burn, making it safe for holly bushes when paired with proper soil pH management. This fast-acting formula is easy to dilute and apply, making it ideal for mixed gardens with lawns, flowers, and shrubs. Its high potency ensures quick nutrient delivery for vibrant holly growth.

Buy It From Amazon

• Price: $34.95
• Key Features and Benefits:
  • NPK 10-10-10, balanced for all growth stages.
  • Low salt index minimizes risk of root burn.
  • Fast-acting liquid formula for quick nutrient uptake.
  • Versatile for lawns, flowers, and shrubs.
  • Easy to dilute and apply with a sprayer or watering can.
• Pros:
  • Quick results, with greener foliage in days, per reviews.
  • Versatile for mixed gardens, reducing the need for multiple fertilizers.
  • Safe for plants when diluted properly.
  • High customer satisfaction for ease of use.
• Cons:
  • Not tailored for acid-loving plants, requiring pH adjustment.
  • Frequent application (every 1–2 weeks) needed for best results.
• Amazon Customer Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 stars (200+ reviews). Users praise its versatility and fast results across various plants. Some note the need for soil pH testing to optimize for hollies.
• Why It’s a Good Choice: This fertilizer is a great multi-purpose option for gardeners managing diverse plants with a single, fast-acting product.
• Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with mixed gardens needing a versatile, quick-acting fertilizer for holly bushes and other plants.

Comparison Table

Note: Prices and ratings based on Amazon data as of August 2025. Check Amazon for real-time updates.

How to Choose the Best Fertilizer for Your Holly Bushes

Choosing the best 10 fertilizers for holly bushes depends on your specific needs:

• Organic vs. Synthetic: Opt for organic options like Espoma Holly-Tone or Down to Earth for eco-conscious gardening; choose synthetic like Miracle-Gro for faster results.
• Application Ease: Spikes (Miracle-Gro Spikes) or granules (Scotts Evergreen) are low-maintenance; liquids (Covington) offer quick absorption but require frequent use.
• Budget: Scotts Evergreen ($7.99) is the most affordable; Safer Brand ($23.69) or BioAdvanced ($24.93) are pricier but offer premium features.
• Soil Testing: Use a pH kit to ensure soil is 5.0–6.5; amend with sulfur if too alkaline for acid-loving fertilizers like Espoma or Safer Brand.
• Plant Size and Age: Larger shrubs need more fertilizer (e.g., 0.5 lb per 0.5 inch trunk diameter); TreeHelp is ideal for large holly trees.
• Specific Issues: Choose high-nitrogen (Miracle-Gro Water Soluble) for yellow leaves or high-phosphorus (Jobe’s Organics) for poor berry production.

How to Apply Fertilizer to Holly Bushes

• Timing: Fertilize in early spring (March–April) and fall (October–November) for optimal growth.
• Application Tips:
  • Pull back mulch and spread granules evenly under the branches, staying 6 inches from the trunk.
  • For liquids, dilute per instructions and apply with a watering can or sprayer.
  • Water thoroughly after application to activate nutrients and prevent root burn.
  • Follow manufacturer dosage guidelines (e.g., 1 cup per 1 ft of plant height for granules).
• Safety Precautions: Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf scorch or root damage. Store fertilizers in a cool, dry place away from pets and kids.

FAQs

• When should I fertilize my holly bushes? Early spring and fall are ideal to support growth and berry production.
• Can I use lawn fertilizer on holly bushes? Lawn fertilizers are too nitrogen-heavy and may not suit acid-loving hollies; use targeted formulas like Espoma Holly-Tone.
• What are signs of over-fertilization? Look for leaf scorch, wilting, or excessive soft growth; reduce application if noticed.
• How do I know if my holly needs fertilizer? Yellow leaves, stunted growth, or sparse berries indicate nutrient deficiencies.
• Are coffee grounds good for holly bushes? Coffee grounds can slightly acidify soil but lack sufficient nutrients; use as a supplement, not a primary fertilizer.

Conclusion

The best 10 fertilizers for holly bushes offer tailored solutions for vibrant foliage, abundant berries, and healthy roots. Espoma Organic Holly-Tone stands out as the top choice for its organic, acid-loving formula and long-lasting results. For budget-conscious gardeners, Scotts Evergreen offers great value, while Miracle-Gro Water Soluble delivers quick fixes for struggling plants. BioAdvanced is ideal for pest-prone areas, and TreeHelp suits large holly trees. Choose the fertilizer that fits your needs and budget, and transform your holly bushes into vibrant, berry-filled showstoppers. Check Amazon for the latest prices and deals!