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If you’re looking for the best fertilizer for arborvitae, the good news is that there are several solid options designed for evergreen trees and shrubs. Arborvitae generally respond well to fertilizers made for trees, shrubs, and evergreens, especially formulas that support greener foliage, healthy roots, and steady growth.
When selecting a product from this list, pay attention to the form of fertilizer, the intended plant type, and how often you want to feed your trees. Liquid formulas can be convenient for quick application, while spikes and granular products may be better if you want a slower-release approach. It also helps to look at customer ratings, package size, and whether the fertilizer is marketed for arborvitae, evergreens, or general tree and shrub care so you can choose the best fit for your space and maintenance routine.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer – Liquid Plant Food | Fuller green foliage and faster growth | Buy |
| Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes | Easy evergreen feeding | Buy |
| TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Arborvitae | Arborvitae-specific feeding | Buy |
Best Fertilizer For Arborvitae
1. Best Overall: Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer
- Made for Arborvitae Trees – Formulated to support healthy growth in arborvitae and evergreen hedges.
- Supports Dense Foliage & Root Strength – Helps encourage vibrant green growth and strong root systems.
- Balanced Nutrition for Evergreen Care – Provides nutrients suited for steady hedge and tree development.
This liquid plant food is designed for arborvitae and is positioned to support fuller green foliage, faster growth, and stronger root development. If you prefer a liquid option, this one stands out as a straightforward, arborvitae-focused choice.
It may appeal to homeowners who want a product made specifically for their arborvitae rather than a general-purpose shrub formula. The 8 oz size also makes it easy to handle for routine feeding.
With a 4.4 rating and a budget-friendly price point, it offers a practical balance between specialized use and affordability.
Pros
- Designed for arborvitae
- Supports foliage and root development
- Liquid form is easy to apply
- Affordable price
Cons
- Small bottle size
- Liquid feeding may not suit everyone
2. Best Spike Option: Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes
- Package contains 9 evergreen fertilizer spikes and are produced to avoid wasteful runoff, mess, hazards and smells
- Formulated with a 11-3-4 NPK to ensure a continuous supply of nutrients below the surface, where the shrubs and tree's active roots are growing
- Application is simple and should be done twice a year in early spring and late fall
These fertilizer spikes are made for cypress, arborvitae, pine, cedar, and many other acid-loving trees. If you want a low-effort feeding method, spikes are often a convenient choice because they are placed into the soil.
This 9-count package is a good fit for smaller feeding jobs, and the product’s evergreen focus makes it relevant for arborvitae owners looking for a simple option. The 4.6 rating suggests strong customer satisfaction.
For gardeners who prefer a slow-release approach without frequent mixing or measuring, this is an appealing option.
Pros
- Made for arborvitae and other evergreens
- Slow-release format
- Easy to use
- Strong customer rating
Cons
- Only 9 spikes per package
- Spikes may not be ideal for every setup
3. Best Arborvitae-Specific Premium Pick: TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Arborvitae
- Approximately 3 Pounds
- Specially formulated for use on Arborvitae trees.
- Promotes long-term vitality through robust root development.
TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Arborvitae is a specialized choice for people who want a product marketed directly for arborvitae care. That kind of focus can be helpful when you want a fertilizer designed with this plant type in mind.
At $16.95 and a 4.4 rating, it sits in a middle ground that may appeal to buyers seeking a dedicated arborvitae fertilizer without moving into a high-price category.
If you want an option that feels tailored rather than generic, this product is worth a close look.
Pros
- Specifically for arborvitae
- Reasonable price
- Good rating
- Helpful for targeted feeding
Cons
- No rating details beyond the listed score
- May be more specialized than some buyers need
4. Best Value Granular: GARDENWISE Evergreen Fertilizer
- Boosts Evergreen Vitality: Specially designed for acid-loving trees and shrubs, this fertilizer ensures lush foliage and steady growth for plants like arborvitae, azaleas, and pines.
- Slow-Release, Long-Lasting Formula: Provides consistent nutrient delivery over time, reducing the need for frequent applications and preventing root burns.
- Enhances Root & Foliage Health: Enriched with essential micronutrients and a balanced NPK ratio (8-4-8), it improves root strength, foliage density, and plant resilience.
GARDENWISE Evergreen Fertilizer is a slow-release granular plant food for outdoor trees and shrubs, including arborvitae. If you like granular products, this one offers a simple, broad-use approach for evergreen care.
The formula is also positioned for azaleas, magnolias, and pines, which suggests it is intended for a range of outdoor landscape plants. The 12 oz size and $9.99 price make it approachable for budget-conscious shoppers.
For gardeners seeking a general evergreen fertilizer that still fits arborvitae use, this is a sensible pick.
Pros
- Slow-release granular formula
- Suitable for arborvitae and other evergreens
- Budget-friendly price
- Good for outdoor trees and shrubs
Cons
- Smaller size
- Not exclusively made for arborvitae
5. Best For Larger Applications: Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed Flowering Trees and Shrubs Plant Food
- Miracle-Gro Shake 'N Feed Flowering Trees & Shrubs Plant Food is specially formulated to help flowering trees and shrubs maintain deep, lush green foliage and colorful blooms throughout the season
- This plant food contains natural ingredients (kelp, earthworm castings, bone meal, feather meal), and feeds plants for up to 3 months
- Use with flowering trees and shrubs, as well as other acid-loving plants, in in-ground gardens or containers
This Shake ‘N Feed formula is made for flowering trees and shrubs and is suitable for in-ground and container plants. While it is not arborvitae-specific, it can still be relevant for gardeners looking for a broad tree and shrub fertilizer.
The 8 lb package is larger than many items on this list, which may be helpful if you’re feeding multiple plants or handling repeat applications. Its 4.6 rating makes it one of the higher-rated products here.
If you want a large, easy-to-use tree and shrub product, this is a strong contender.
Pros
- Large 8 lb size
- Suitable for in-ground and container plants
- High rating
- Useful for trees and shrubs
Cons
- Not specifically made for arborvitae
- May be more fertilizer than some users need
6. Best Bulk Spike Pack: Fertilizer Spikes for Evergreen Trees & Shrubs
- Specially Formulated for Evergreen Trees & Shrubs: The 12-3-3 formula -- 12% Nitrogen; 3% Phosphorus; and 3% Potassium -- in these fertilizer plant food spikes was developed to meet the unique requirements of evergreens, pines, firs, and other coniferous trees and shrubs.
- Set It & Forget It Solution: Each 5-Inch SimplyGro Fertilizer Spike is packed with nutrition designed for feed your trees and shrubs continuously for up to 3 months. For best results apply fertilizer spikes twice a year, once in the spring when plants use a lot of energy producing leaves, needles, cones, blooms, and seeds; and once in the fall when they're storing energy for winter.
- A Smarter Way to Fertilize Your Plants: SimplyGro fertilizer spikes are pre-measured so you'll be less likely to over-feed you plants; and there's less likelihood of nutrient loss or leakage which can damage local waterways and ecosystems. Fertilizer spikes nourish below ground, at the roots where plants need it most for lush leaves, vibrant colors, beautiful flowers, and bountiful growth.
These fertilizer spikes are designed for evergreen trees and shrubs and come in a 24-spike package. That makes them a practical option if you have multiple arborvitae or want a larger supply in one purchase.
Because spikes are simple to place and allow for slower feeding, they can be appealing for users who prefer less frequent application. The 4.6 rating is another plus.
This could be a strong pick for homeowners managing several evergreens at once.
Pros
- 24-spike pack
- Made for evergreen trees and shrubs
- Slow-release feeding format
- High rating
Cons
- Higher price
- Spikes may not suit all soil preferences
7. Best Protect and Feed: BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed
- INSECT KILLER: 12 Month Tree & Shrub Protect & Feed kills Japanese Beetles, Emerald Ash Borers, Adelgids, Leafminers, Aphids, and other listed insects that damage trees and shrubs
- PROTECTS UP TO 12 MONTHS: One application kills listed insects and prevents new infestations for up to a year
- FEEDS & PROTECTS: Slow-release plant food improves the health of your outdoor trees, shrubs, and container plants
BioAdvanced 12 Month Tree and Shrub Protect and Feed is a granule product that combines plant food with insect killer. The names and positioning make it a more specialized option for homeowners wanting an all-in-one tree and shrub solution.
It is listed for tree and shrub care, so it may suit arborvitae if you’re looking for a broader treatment approach. The 12-month positioning may appeal to people who prefer longer-lasting convenience.
With a 4.6 rating, it ranks well among the products here.
Pros
- Tree and shrub formula
- 12-month product positioning
- High customer rating
- Granular format
Cons
- Includes insect killer, which not everyone wants
- Not arborvitae-specific
8. Best Liquid Quart: Liquid Arborvitae Fertilizer by Perfect Plants
- ECONOMICAL AND EFFICIENT – Each bottle is designed to last through the entire growing season, ensuring a advanced solution with a simple dilution ratio, making application easy and straightforward to help protect your in ground and potted trees.
- SIMPLE, VERSATILE USAGE – Available in two sizes for convenience, use 2 teaspoons per gallon of water for 8oz bottles, or 2 tablespoons per gallon for 1 quart bottles, ideal for both small bushes and larger trees. Apply weekly or use with every watering in the spring and summer. Reduce deep feeding to once every 3-4 weeks in the fall and winter.
- RICH IN ESSENTIAL MICRONUTRIENTS – The formula prominently features a rich blend of essential micronutrients such as iron, boron, and zinc, crucial for the nourishment of Arborvitaes. Enhance brighter green color & improve winter survival.
Liquid Arborvitae Fertilizer by Perfect Plants is another arborvitae-focused product, and its one-quart size gives it a different usability profile from smaller bottles. If you prefer liquid feeding, this could be a convenient option.
The rating is 4.0, which is lower than several others in the roundup, so it may be worth comparing carefully with the more highly rated products if that matters to you.
Still, the product’s direct arborvitae branding makes it relevant for targeted care.
Pros
- Made for arborvitae
- Liquid quart size
- Useful for dedicated feeding
Cons
- Lower rating than many competitors
- Not as strongly reviewed
9. Best Budget Liquid: Leaves and Soul Arborvitae Fertilizer
- 🌲 BALANCED 6-4-6 FORMULA FOR ARBORVITAE TREES: Give your arborvitae trees the nutrients they need with this professional 6-4-6 fertilizer blend designed for arbor vitae trees and shrubs. This balanced arborvitae fertilizer supports strong root development, fuller branching, dense green foliage, and year-round vigor for privacy hedges, landscape borders, and ornamental outdoor garden plantings.
- 💧FAST-ABSORBING LIQUID TREE FERTILIZER: Unlike slow-release spikes or pellets, this liquid arborvitae tree fertilizer delivers nutrients directly to the root zone for quicker uptake and visible plant support. The concentrated liquid formula helps maintain foliage density, healthier needles, and stronger overall growth for arbor vitae trees of all sizes and maturity levels.
- 🪴 FOR POTTED OR IN-GROUND ARBOR VITAE: Perfect for arbor vitae trees planted in containers, raised beds, privacy hedges, landscape borders, or directly in garden soil. This arbor vitae tree food supports healthy development for potted trees and established outdoor plantings, making it ideal for home gardens, yards, and professional landscape maintenance routines.
Leaves and Soul Arborvitae Fertilizer is a 6-4-6 liquid concentrate marketed for arborvitae trees, shrubs, privacy hedges, and outdoor garden use. That makes it one of the more clearly targeted products in this list.
The 8 oz size and $9.99 price point may be attractive for buyers looking for a lower-cost liquid arborvitae fertilizer. Its 4.1 rating suggests decent feedback, though not as strong as some of the leading items.
If you want a targeted arborvitae concentrate without spending much, this is worth considering.
Pros
- Arborvitae-focused concentrate
- Low price
- Suitable for trees, shrubs, and hedges
Cons
- Lower rating than top picks
- Only 8 oz
10. Best Shrub Feed: BioAdvanced Shrub Care Protect & Feed
- PROTECTS ENTIRE SHRUB: One application of this shrub fertilizer provides up to 6 weeks of protection against listed pests and diseases
- FEEDS ENTIRE SHRUB: Help promote robust shrubs and other listed plants’ roots with this outdoor plant fertilizer
- KILLS HARMFUL INSECTS*: Systemic insecticide provides protection against such listed pests as Aphids, adult Japanese Beetles**, Lace Bugs and more. *Listed | **Not approved for use on adult Japanese Beetles in CA
BioAdvanced Shrub Care Protect & Feed is a granular shrub fertilizer intended for shrub care. While not specifically labeled for arborvitae, it may still be worth evaluating if you want a shrub-focused feeding product.
The 4.5 rating is solid, and the product appears to be aimed at gardeners wanting both feeding and care in one formula.
For users who think in terms of overall shrub health rather than only tree-specific feeding, this is a practical option.
Pros
- Made for shrubs
- Solid customer rating
- Granular format
Cons
- Not specifically for arborvitae
- May be broader than needed
11. Best Easy Feed Spikes: Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes, 5 Count
- Package contains 5 evergreen fertilizer spikes and are produced to avoid wasteful runoff, mess, hazards and smells
- Formulated with a 11-3-4 NPK to ensure a continuous supply of nutrients below the surface, where the shrubs and tree's active roots are growing
- Application is simple and should be done twice a year in early spring and late fall
This smaller Jobe’s spike pack is another evergreen fertilizer option suitable for cypress, arborvitae, pine, cedar, and other acid-loving trees. If you only need a few spikes, the 5-count package can be convenient.
Like the larger Jobe’s version, it uses a slow-release spike format that keeps application simple. The 4.4 rating suggests it has found a reliable audience.
It can be a good choice for smaller jobs or first-time buyers who want to test a spike fertilizer.
Pros
- Suitable for arborvitae and evergreens
- Simple spike application
- Good for smaller needs
Cons
- Only 5 spikes
- Not ideal for larger landscapes
12. Best Bulk Value: Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes, Bulk 160 Count
- Package contains 160 evergreen fertilizer spikes and are produced to avoid wasteful runoff, mess, hazards and smells
- Formulated with a 11-3-4 NPK to ensure a continuous supply of nutrients below the surface, where the shrubs and tree's active roots are growing
- Application is simple and should be done twice a year in early spring and late fall
If you’re caring for many arborvitae or want a supply that lasts, the bulk 160-count version of Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes is the most volume-heavy option in this roundup.
It retains the same evergreen and arborvitae-friendly positioning as the smaller Jobe’s spike packs, but the large count makes it more suitable for ongoing or commercial-style use.
With a 4.6 rating, it also has strong customer feedback supporting it.
Pros
- Very large 160-count package
- Made for arborvitae and evergreens
- High rating
- Good for multiple plants
Cons
- High upfront price
- May be excessive for single-tree use
13. Best Premium Liquid Formula: Five Star Arbor Pro 15-8-4 Liquid Fertilizer
- LONG-LASTING NITROGEN SUPPLY: Arbor Pro liquid nitrogen fertilizer contains slow-release nitrogen that provides a continuous, steady supply of nutrients, ensuring your plants grow vigorously and stay healthy without the risk of overfeeding or nutrient burn.
- MINERALS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Enriched with chelated minors, this liquid tree fertilizer delivers essential micronutrients for trees, shrubs, and ornamentals, boosting plant health, vitality, and resistance to diseases, pests, and environmental stressors.
- ONE MIX, ALL YOUR PLANTS THRIVE: Our fertilizer for trees is a versatile solution perfect for trees, shrubs, and ornamentals, meeting the diverse nutritional needs of all your plants, ensuring they receive optimal nutrients for healthy, vibrant growth.
Five Star Arbor Pro 15-8-4 Liquid Fertilizer is described as a liquid fertilizer with minors and slow-release nitrogen for trees, shrubs, and ornamentals. It is positioned more broadly than arborvitae-only products, but it is clearly made for landscape plant care.
The inclusion of lasting chelated micronutrients may appeal to buyers looking for a more premium-feeling liquid formula. However, because the rating field is blank in the provided data, it’s harder to compare on user feedback.
If you want a liquid fertilizer with a richer label profile for general ornamental care, this is one to review closely.
Pros
- Includes minors and micronutrients
- Made for trees, shrubs, and ornamentals
- Liquid format
Cons
- No rating provided
- Not specifically labeled for arborvitae
14. Best for Year-Round Growth: 32oz Tree and Shrub Plant Food
- 2X MORE VALUE: The 16 oz bottle of HiThrive tree fertilizer & shrub food makes 16 gallons of liquid plant food outdoor, while the bigger size 32 oz makes 32 gallons, ensuring lasting nourishment.
- PROMOTES GROWTH & RESILIENCE: Packed with nitrogen for lush leaves, phosphorus for root support & potassium for resilience, this plant fertilizer outdoor keeps your plants thriving through every season.
- POWERFUL LIQUID FERTILIZER: Our essential macronutrients combined with micronutrients strengthen roots, promote dense foliage, and enhance your plants' ability to withstand drought and stress.
This 32oz liquid plant food is formulated to make 32 gallons of tree and shrub fertilizer and is marketed for healthy roots, foliage, and year-round growth. Those broader care goals make it a relevant option for arborvitae owners who want general landscape feeding.
The larger bottle size is useful if you plan to mix and apply fertilizer multiple times. With a 4.4 rating and a $17.97 price, it sits in a practical middle zone.
It may be especially appealing for users looking for a liquid formula that works across a variety of trees and shrubs.
Pros
- Large 32 oz bottle
- Supports roots, foliage, and year-round growth
- Good rating
- Useful for trees and shrubs
Cons
- Not arborvitae-specific
- Requires mixing
15. Best General Evergreen Feed: Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes
- LASTING COLOR: Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food Spikes are fertilizer spikes for trees and shrubs; they promote vibrant color and foliage for trees and shrubs in your yard
- PROVIDES NUTRITION: These easy-to-use outdoor tree food spikes provide slow release nutrients directly to your trees and shrubs' roots, where they need it most
- WHERE TO USE: Use tree spikes with deciduous, flowering and evergreen trees as well as acid-loving plants like hydrangeas, azaleas and magnolias
Miracle-Gro Tree and Shrub Plant Food Spikes are designed for deciduous, flowering, and evergreen trees, along with hydrangeas and acid-loving plants. That broad plant coverage makes them a flexible choice for gardeners caring for multiple landscape plants.
The 12-count package and 4.5 rating make it a strong mainstream option, especially if you are comfortable using a general tree and shrub fertilizer for arborvitae.
For anyone wanting a simple spike format from a widely recognized brand, this is a dependable pick to consider.
Pros
- Suitable for evergreen trees
- Easy spike format
- Strong rating
- Broad landscape use
Cons
- Not specifically for arborvitae
- May be more general than targeted users want
Buying Guide
Fertilizer Type
Arborvitae fertilizers come in liquid, granular, and spike form. Liquid products are convenient for mixing and applying quickly, while granular fertilizers are often chosen for slow-release feeding. Spikes are simple and low-mess, which can make them appealing for homeowners who want easy application.
Plant Compatibility
Look for products that are specifically labeled for arborvitae when possible. If a fertilizer is designed for evergreens, trees, or shrubs, it may still be suitable, but checking the label helps ensure you’re choosing a product aligned with your plant’s needs.
Application Convenience
Think about the maintenance routine you prefer. Some people want a product they can apply quickly and forget about for a while, while others prefer a liquid formula they can mix and use during regular watering. The easiest fertilizer is often the one you’ll actually use consistently.
Package Size and Value
Consider how many arborvitae you’re feeding and how often you plan to fertilize. Smaller bottles and spike packs may work well for one or two plants, while larger granules or bulk spike packages are better for bigger properties or multiple shrubs.
Customer Ratings
Ratings can help you narrow down the most trusted picks. In this roundup, several products have strong ratings, which can be useful when comparing a specialized arborvitae fertilizer against a broader tree and shrub option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best fertilizer for arborvitae?
The best fertilizer for arborvitae depends on your preference for liquid, granular, or spike formats. In this list, arborvitae-specific products like Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer and TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Arborvitae are especially relevant. Evergreen and shrub fertilizers can also work well.
Can I use evergreen fertilizer on arborvitae?
Yes, evergreen fertilizers are often a good match for arborvitae because arborvitae are evergreen plants. Always check the label to make sure the product is appropriate for your specific plant and application method.
Are fertilizer spikes good for arborvitae?
Fertilizer spikes can be a convenient option for arborvitae because they are easy to place and often provide slow-release feeding. Products like Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes are made for arborvitae and similar plants.
Should I choose liquid or granular fertilizer for arborvitae?
Both can work well. Liquid fertilizer is easier to mix and apply, while granular fertilizer may offer a slower, longer-lasting feeding approach. The right choice usually comes down to how hands-on you want the feeding process to be.
How often should arborvitae be fertilized?
Fertilizing frequency depends on the product you use and the condition of the plant. Slow-release spikes or granules may be applied less often than liquid products. Always follow the manufacturer’s directions on the package.
Conclusion
Choosing the Best Fertilizer For Arborvitae comes down to matching the product type with your gardening routine and your plant’s needs. If you want a targeted option, the arborvitae-specific fertilizers are a smart place to begin. If you prefer convenience, spikes and slow-release granules can make feeding easier and more consistent.
From liquid concentrates to easy-to-use spikes, the products in this guide give you several practical ways to support arborvitae health, foliage, and growth. Start with the option that best fits your space, budget, and maintenance style, and you’ll be in a good position to give your arborvitae the care they need.