Are your cedar trees looking lackluster, with yellowing needles or stunted growth? The secret to vibrant, thriving cedars lies in choosing the best 10 fertilizers for cedar trees. Without the right nutrients, your trees may struggle, costing you time and money. This guide reviews the top 10 fertilizers for cedar trees, meticulously selected based on Amazon ratings, customer reviews, and horticultural expertise. We’ve analyzed real-time data to ensure you can confidently pick the perfect product to boost your cedars’ health. Trust us to help you transform your trees into lush, green masterpieces.
Why Fertilizing Cedar Trees Matters
Cedar trees, with their aromatic wood and evergreen foliage, are a stunning addition to any landscape. However, they have specific nutrient needs to maintain their health and beauty. Here’s why fertilization is crucial:
- Cedar Tree Nutrient Needs: Cedars require a balanced mix of macronutrients—nitrogen (N) for lush foliage, phosphorus (P) for strong roots, and potassium (K) for disease resistance—along with micronutrients like iron and zinc to prevent deficiencies. An improper nutrient balance can weaken trees, making them susceptible to pests and environmental stress.
- Signs of Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing or browning needles, sparse foliage, slow growth, or weak branches indicate your cedar may lack essential nutrients. These signs often stem from poor soil quality or insufficient feeding.
- Benefits of the Right Fertilizer: The right fertilizer promotes vibrant green needles, strengthens roots, enhances drought and disease resistance, and ensures long-term vitality. Proper fertilization can also correct soil imbalances, giving your cedars the foundation to thrive.
- Soil and pH Considerations: Cedars prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). A soil test can reveal pH levels and nutrient deficiencies, helping you choose a fertilizer that aligns with your soil’s needs. Acidifying fertilizers are particularly useful for cedars in alkaline soils.
How We Chose the Best 10 Fertilizers for Cedar Trees
To curate this list, we conducted a deep analysis of current Amazon best-seller lists, customer reviews, and expert recommendations from trusted sources like GardenerBible and TreeFluent. Our selection criteria included:
- Effectiveness: Products with balanced NPK ratios optimized for evergreen growth, particularly for cedars.
- Customer Feedback: High ratings (4+ stars) and consistent positive reviews on Amazon, reflecting real-world performance.
- Ease of Use: Simple application methods (spikes, granules, or liquids) suitable for all gardeners.
- Price-Value Ratio: Affordable options with ample coverage for various tree sizes.
- Suitability: Formulas tailored for evergreens, including cedar-specific or acid-loving plant fertilizers.
- Research Process: We cross-referenced Amazon sales ranks, review counts, and expert insights to ensure impartiality and applicability. We prioritized products addressing common cedar issues like transplant shock, slow growth, or nutrient deficiencies.
Our goal was to create a comprehensive, authoritative resource that simplifies your buying decision, modeled after top affiliate sites like Wirecutter and GearLab.
The Best 10 Fertilizers for Cedar Trees: Detailed Reviews & Comparison
1. Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes
- Product Description: Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes are a top choice for cedar tree owners seeking a low-maintenance solution. These pre-measured spikes deliver a steady stream of nutrients directly to the root zone, promoting lush foliage and robust root systems. Designed specifically for evergreens like cedars, cypress, and pines, they eliminate the need for mixing or measuring, making them ideal for busy gardeners. The slow-release formula ensures consistent feeding for up to three months, reducing the risk of over-fertilization and ensuring your cedars stay vibrant year-round.
- Price: $9.89
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 11-3-4, with high nitrogen to support cedar foliage growth.
- Slow-Release Formula: Feeds for up to 3 months, minimizing maintenance.
- Easy Application: Simply hammer spikes into the soil near the tree’s drip line.
- Versatile: Suitable for cedars, arborvitae, and other acid-loving evergreens.
- Pros:
- Hassle-free application requires no mixing or watering-in.
- Promotes greener needles and stronger roots within weeks.
- High Amazon rating (4.6/5 from 20,071 reviews), reflecting reliability.
- Cons:
- Requires multiple spikes for large cedars, increasing costs.
- Limited micronutrient profile compared to granular options.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from 20,071 reviews. Users praise the ease of use and visible improvements in cedar vigor, with many noting brighter foliage within a month. Some report slower results for mature trees, requiring patience.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The balanced NPK ratio and slow-release design make these spikes perfect for maintaining cedar health with minimal effort. They’re especially effective for young or stressed cedars needing consistent nutrients.
- Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with small to medium cedars seeking a set-it-and-forget-it fertilization solution for suburban landscapes.
2. Espoma Organic Evergreen-Tone 4-3-4
- Product Description: Espoma Organic Evergreen-Tone is a premium organic fertilizer crafted for evergreens like cedars, enriched with Bio-tone microbes to enhance soil health. Its granular formula provides a balanced nutrient profile, promoting steady growth and vibrant foliage while maintaining the slightly acidic soil cedars love. Safe for pets, people, and the environment, this fertilizer is ideal for eco-conscious gardeners who want sustainable, long-term cedar care. The 18-pound bag offers ample coverage, making it a cost-effective choice for multiple trees or hedges.
- Price: $14.29
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 4-3-4, gentle and balanced for cedar health.
- Organic with Microbes: Bio-tone enhances soil microbiome for better nutrient uptake.
- Acidifying Formula: Maintains optimal soil pH (6.0-7.0) for cedars.
- Slow-Release: Feeds for 2-3 months, reducing application frequency.
- Pros:
- Eco-friendly and safe for organic gardening.
- Improves long-term soil health, reducing future fertilizer needs.
- High Amazon rating (4.5/5 from 143 reviews), praised for vibrant results.
- Cons:
- Higher price point than synthetic options.
- Requires thorough watering to activate granules.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.5/5 from 143 reviews. Gardeners love the organic composition and greener foliage, with many noting improved cedar vigor. Some report slower initial results compared to synthetic fertilizers.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The organic formula and acidifying properties align perfectly with cedars’ soil preferences, ensuring sustainable growth and health.
- Ideal Use Case: Eco-conscious gardeners with established cedars or hedges in slightly alkaline soils.
3. Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes
- Product Description: Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes offer a budget-friendly, high-nitrogen solution for cedar trees needing a quick boost. These slow-release spikes deliver nutrients directly to the root zone, promoting lush, green foliage and strong roots. Designed for both deciduous and evergreen trees, they’re versatile and easy to use, requiring no mixing or measuring. With a high Amazon rating and thousands of reviews, these spikes are a reliable choice for gardeners seeking fast, visible results without breaking the bank.
- Price: $14.88
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 15-5-10, high nitrogen for rapid foliage growth.
- Slow-Release Formula: Feeds for up to 3 months, reducing maintenance.
- Easy Application: Hammer spikes into the soil near the drip line.
- Broad Compatibility: Suitable for cedars, pines, and other trees.
- Pros:
- Affordable and widely available.
- High Amazon rating (4.6/5 from 20,492 reviews), praised for quick greening.
- Simple, no-mess application.
- Cons:
- Synthetic formula may not appeal to organic gardeners.
- Limited micronutrients compared to specialized cedar fertilizers.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from 20,492 reviews. Users love the convenience and rapid greening, with many reporting healthier cedars within weeks. Some note uneven nutrient distribution in sandy soils.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The high nitrogen content delivers fast foliage growth, ideal for cedars recovering from stress or nutrient deficiencies.
- Ideal Use Case: Budget-conscious gardeners with young cedars needing a quick nutrient boost.
4. TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Cedar
- Product Description: TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Cedar is a specialized granular fertilizer designed exclusively for cedar trees, focusing on long-term vitality through robust root development. Its slow-release nitrogen formula ensures steady feeding throughout the growing season, making it ideal for both newly planted and mature cedars. The 1.5 kg bag treats one large tree or 2-3 smaller ones, offering precise nutrition tailored to cedar needs. With detailed instructions included, this fertilizer is perfect for dedicated cedar owners seeking a targeted solution.
- Price: $14.95
- Key Features & Benefits:
- Custom NPK: Tailored for cedars, emphasizing root and foliage health.
- Slow-Release Nitrogen: Feeds consistently throughout the growing season.
- Cedar-Specific: Formulated to address unique cedar nutrient needs.
- Compact Size: Treats one large or 2-3 small cedars efficiently.
- Pros:
- Precision formula for optimal cedar care.
- High Amazon rating (4.4/5 from 9 reviews), praised for targeted results.
- Includes clear application instructions.
- Cons:
- Limited reviews due to niche product.
- Not available in WA, USA.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.4/5 from 9 reviews. Users appreciate the cedar-specific formula and improved tree health, though some wish for larger quantities.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: Its tailored formula ensures cedars receive exactly the nutrients they need, promoting long-term health and resilience.
- Ideal Use Case: Dedicated cedar owners seeking a specialized fertilizer for small to medium trees.
5. BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed
- Product Description: BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed is a dual-action granular fertilizer that combines nutrient delivery with systemic insect protection. Ideal for cedars in pest-prone areas, this product promotes healthy growth while safeguarding against common pests like aphids and spider mites. Its slow-release formula provides up to 12 months of feeding, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners seeking comprehensive cedar care. The 4-pound bag covers multiple trees, offering excellent value.
- Price: $79.97
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 2-1-1, balanced for steady growth.
- Systemic Insect Protection: Protects against pests for up to 12 months.
- Long-Lasting: Single application feeds for a full year.
- Broad Coverage: Suitable for cedars and other trees/shrubs.
- Pros:
- Combines fertilization and pest control, saving time.
- High Amazon rating (4.5/5 from 6,313 reviews), valued for all-in-one benefits.
- Cost-effective for large landscapes.
- Cons:
- Synthetic formula not suitable for organic gardening.
- Lower NPK ratio may require supplemental feeding for nutrient-deficient cedars.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.5/5 from 6,313 reviews. Users appreciate the pest protection and healthier trees, though some note slower nutrient release compared to high-nitrogen options.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The dual-action formula protects cedars from pests while providing steady nutrients, ideal for stressed or vulnerable trees.
- Ideal Use Case: Gardeners in pest-prone areas with cedars needing both nutrition and protection.
6. FoxFarm Happy Frog Japanese Maple Fertilizer
- Product Description: FoxFarm Happy Frog Japanese Maple Fertilizer is a premium organic granular fertilizer designed for acid-loving evergreens like cedars. Its balanced nutrient profile, enriched with beneficial microbes, supports vibrant foliage and healthy root systems while maintaining the slightly acidic soil conditions cedars thrive in. The 4-pound bag is ideal for small to medium cedar trees or hedges, offering a sustainable, eco-friendly solution for gardeners who prioritize soil health. With a high Amazon rating and a loyal following, this fertilizer delivers consistent results for lush, green cedars.
- Price: $19.99
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 4-3-4, balanced for foliage and root growth.
- Organic with Microbes: Contains mycorrhizae and bacteria to enhance soil health and nutrient uptake.
- Acidifying Formula: Maintains optimal soil pH (6.0-7.0) for cedars.
- Slow-Release: Feeds steadily for 2-3 months, reducing reapplication needs.
- Pros:
- Eco-friendly and safe for organic gardening.
- Enhances soil structure for long-term cedar health.
- High Amazon rating (4.6/5 from 564 reviews), praised for vibrant growth.
- Cons:
- Not specifically formulated for cedars, may require pH adjustments.
- Mild odor during application, which may bother some users.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from 564 reviews. Users report greener needles and stronger growth, particularly for acid-loving evergreens. Some mention the initial odor but note it dissipates quickly.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The acidifying properties and organic composition make it ideal for cedars in slightly alkaline soils, ensuring optimal nutrient availability.
- Ideal Use Case: Organic gardeners with cedars in acidic or neutral soils seeking sustainable, long-term care.
7. The Old Farmer’s Almanac Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes
- Product Description: The Old Farmer’s Almanac Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes are a reliable, no-fuss option for cedar tree care. These slow-release spikes deliver a balanced nutrient mix directly to the root zone, promoting lush foliage and strong roots for evergreens and deciduous trees alike. The 24-spike box is perfect for gardeners with multiple trees or large cedars, offering ample coverage and consistent feeding. Backed by a trusted brand, these spikes are a favorite for homeowners seeking dependable, long-lasting results.
- Price: $99.00
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 13-3-4, high nitrogen for foliage growth.
- Slow-Release Formula: Feeds for up to 3 months, minimizing maintenance.
- Easy Application: Hammer spikes into the soil near the drip line.
- Broad Compatibility: Suitable for cedars, pines, and other shrubs/trees.
- Pros:
- High Amazon rating (4.5/5 from 207 reviews), praised for ease and effectiveness.
- Cost-effective for multiple trees or large landscapes.
- Consistent nutrient delivery for steady growth.
- Cons:
- Higher upfront cost for large quantities.
- May require multiple spikes for mature cedars, increasing application time.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.5/5 from 207 reviews. Users report healthier, greener trees, with many noting improved cedar vigor. Some mention slower initial results compared to liquid fertilizers.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The high nitrogen content and slow-release design ensure consistent feeding, ideal for maintaining cedar health in diverse soil conditions.
- Ideal Use Case: Homeowners with multiple evergreens, including cedars, seeking a low-maintenance, reliable fertilizer.
8. Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer (Liquid)
- Product Description: Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer is a fast-acting liquid fertilizer formulated for evergreens like cedars, arborvitae, and thujas. Its concentrated formula delivers nutrients quickly through soil drenching, promoting rapid foliage growth and vibrant color. The 8-ounce bottle is perfect for small cedars or targeted applications, offering flexibility for gardeners who prefer precise control. With a high Amazon rating and positive feedback, this fertilizer is a go-to for those seeking immediate results for young or struggling cedars.
- Price: $11.99
- Key Features & Benefits:
- Custom NPK: High nitrogen for rapid foliage development.
- Fast-Acting Liquid: Absorbs quickly for immediate nutrient delivery.
- Easy to Dilute: Mix with water for soil drenching or foliar feeding.
- Compact Size: Treats small cedars or targeted areas efficiently.
- Pros:
- Affordable and effective for small-scale applications.
- High Amazon rating (4.5/5 from 130 reviews), praised for quick greening.
- Flexible application for various cedar sizes.
- Cons:
- Requires frequent reapplication (every 4-6 weeks).
- Small bottle size may not suffice for large cedars.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.5/5 from 130 reviews. Users love the fast results and ease of use, with many reporting vibrant cedars within days. Some note the need for frequent applications.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The quick nutrient delivery is perfect for cedars needing an immediate boost, especially post-transplant or during stress.
- Ideal Use Case: Gardeners with young or recovering cedars seeking rapid, targeted fertilization.
9. Down To Earth All Natural Tree & Shrub Mix
- Product Description: Down To Earth All Natural Tree & Shrub Mix is an organic granular fertilizer designed to nourish trees and shrubs, including cedars, with a balanced nutrient profile. Its natural ingredients, like fish bone meal and kelp, promote healthy foliage, strong roots, and improved soil structure. The 5-pound box is ideal for eco-conscious gardeners who want sustainable cedar care. With a high Amazon rating and praise for its long-term benefits, this fertilizer is a top choice for organic landscapes.
- Price: $21.99
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 4-2-4, balanced for overall cedar health.
- Organic Ingredients: Includes fish bone meal, kelp, and alfalfa for natural nutrition.
- Soil Health Focus: Enhances microbial activity for long-term benefits.
- Slow-Release: Feeds for 2-3 months, reducing application frequency.
- Pros:
- Eco-friendly and safe for organic gardening.
- Improves soil health, reducing future fertilizer needs.
- High Amazon rating (4.6/5 from 65 reviews), valued for sustainable results.
- Cons:
- Slower results compared to synthetic fertilizers.
- Granules may clump in humid conditions, requiring careful application.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from 65 reviews. Users report improved cedar vigor and soil quality, with many noting greener foliage over time. Some mention slower initial effects.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The organic formula and soil-enhancing properties make it ideal for sustainable cedar care, particularly in nutrient-poor soils.
- Ideal Use Case: Organic enthusiasts with established cedar hedges seeking long-term health and soil improvement.
10. Voluntary Purchasing Group Fertilome Tree and Shrub Food
- Product Description: Voluntary Purchasing Group Fertilome Tree and Shrub Food is a high-potency granular fertilizer designed for robust tree and shrub growth, including cedars. Its high-nitrogen formula penetrates deep into the soil, delivering nutrients to feeder roots for rapid foliage development and overall vigor. The 4-pound bag is cost-effective for medium to large cedars, offering a powerful solution for nutrient-deficient trees. With strong Amazon reviews, this fertilizer is a reliable choice for gardeners seeking fast, noticeable results.
- Price: $56.31
- Key Features & Benefits:
- NPK Ratio: 19-8-10, high nitrogen for foliage and growth.
- Deep Penetration: Reaches feeder roots for efficient nutrient delivery.
- Broad Application: Suitable for cedars, pines, and other trees/shrubs.
- Cost-Effective: High potency reduces the amount needed per application.
- Pros:
- High Amazon rating (4.5/5 from 300 reviews), praised for rapid growth.
- Effective for nutrient-deficient cedars.
- Easy-to-apply granular formula.
- Cons:
- Synthetic formula not suitable for organic gardening.
- Risk of over-fertilization if not applied carefully.
- Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.5/5 from 300 reviews. Users note rapid foliage growth and healthier cedars, with many seeing results within weeks. Some caution about precise application to avoid burn.
- Why It’s a Good Choice for Cedars: The high-nitrogen formula delivers a quick nutrient boost, ideal for cedars recovering from stress or poor soil conditions.
- Ideal Use Case: Gardeners with nutrient-deficient cedars seeking fast, powerful results in non-organic landscapes.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Price | Amazon Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Jobe’s Evergreen Spikes | $9.89 | 4.6/5 |
| Espoma Evergreen-Tone | $14.29 | 4.5/5 |
| Miracle-Gro Spikes | $14.88 | 4.6/5 |
| TreeHelp Cedar Fertilizer | $14.95 | 4.4/5 |
| BioAdvanced Protect & Feed | $79.97 | 4.5/5 |
| FoxFarm Happy Frog | $19.99 | 4.6/5 |
| Old Farmer’s Almanac Spikes | $99.00 | 4.5/5 |
| Arborvitae Liquid | $11.99 | 4.5/5 |
| Down To Earth Mix | $21.99 | 4.6/5 |
| Fertilome Tree Food | $56.31 | 4.5/5 |
Note: Prices and ratings based on Amazon data as of Feb 2025. Check product pages for real-time updates.
How to Choose the Right Fertilizer for Your Cedar Trees
- Factors to Consider:
- Tree Age/Size: Young cedars (under 10 years) benefit from high-nitrogen fertilizers like Miracle-Gro (15-5-10) or Fertilome (19-8-10) to promote rapid foliage growth. Mature cedars thrive with balanced formulas like Espoma (4-3-4) or Down To Earth (4-2-4) for sustained health.
- Soil Type/pH: Cedars prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). Test soil pH with a kit (available at garden centers) to choose acidifying fertilizers like FoxFarm or Espoma for alkaline soils.
- Organic vs. Synthetic: Organic options (Espoma, Down To Earth) support long-term soil health and sustainability, ideal for eco-conscious gardeners. Synthetic fertilizers (Miracle-Gro, Fertilome) offer quick results for urgent needs but may degrade soil over time.
- Application Ease: Spikes (Jobe’s, Old Farmer’s Almanac) are low-maintenance, perfect for busy gardeners. Granular (Espoma, Fertilome) and liquid (Arborvitae) options allow precise control but require more effort.
- When to Fertilize: Apply in early spring before new growth or late winter to prepare for the growing season. Avoid late summer or fall to prevent tender growth susceptible to cold damage.
- Application Tips: Spread granules evenly around the drip line (outermost branch edge), avoiding the trunk. For spikes, insert near the drip line. Water thoroughly after application to aid nutrient absorption and prevent burn. Dilute liquid fertilizers per instructions.
- Signs You Need Fertilizer: Yellowing or browning needles, sparse foliage, slow growth, or weak branches indicate nutrient deficiencies. Conduct a soil test to confirm specific needs.
FAQs
- How often should I fertilize my cedar trees?
Fertilize mature cedars every 2-3 years, based on soil tests. Young trees may need annual fertilization to support establishment. Over-fertilization can cause nutrient imbalances or root burn. - What’s the best time to fertilize cedars?
Early spring, before new growth, is ideal to support active growth. Late winter is also suitable for slow-release formulas. Avoid winter to prevent nutrient buildup in dormant soil. - Can I use a general-purpose fertilizer for cedars?
General-purpose fertilizers (e.g., 10-10-10) can work but may not address cedar-specific needs like pH or micronutrients. Evergreen or cedar-specific formulas (e.g., TreeHelp) are more effective. - What are signs of over-fertilization?
Burnt leaf tips, excessive soft growth, or nutrient imbalances (e.g., yellowing despite feeding) indicate over-fertilization. Reduce application and water thoroughly to flush excess nutrients. - Organic vs. synthetic: Which is better for cedars?
Organic fertilizers (Espoma, Down To Earth) promote soil health and sustainability but act slowly. Synthetic fertilizers (Miracle-Gro, Fertilome) provide quick results but risk soil degradation if overused. Choose based on your priorities.
Conclusion
The best 10 fertilizers for cedar trees cater to a range of needs, from budget-friendly quick fixes to organic, sustainable care. For low-maintenance ease, Jobe’s Evergreen Spikes and Miracle-Gro Spikes deliver reliable results. Eco-conscious gardeners will love Espoma Evergreen-Tone and Down To Earth Mix for their soil-enhancing benefits. If pest protection is a concern, BioAdvanced Protect and Feed is a standout. For targeted cedar care, TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer is unmatched. Test your soil, consider your cedar’s age and condition, and choose a fertilizer from our list to ensure vibrant, healthy trees. Visit Amazon to explore these products and start nourishing your cedars today
