I Tested Slow Release Fertilizer for Arborvitae: Here’s What Worked Best for My Trees
When I first started caring for my arborvitae, I quickly realized that keeping these beautiful evergreens healthy and vibrant required more than just regular watering. That’s when I discovered the benefits of slow release fertilizer for arborvitae—a game changer in providing consistent nourishment without overwhelming the plant. Using the right fertilizer not only supports steady growth but also enhances the tree’s natural resilience throughout the seasons. In this article, I want to share why slow release options have become my go-to choice for maintaining lush, thriving arborvitae in any landscape.
I Tested The Slow Release Fertilizer For Arborvitae Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer for All Arborvitaes, Evergreen Shrubs and Thuja Trees, Liquid Plant Food 8 oz (250mL)
Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes, Easy Plant Care for Cypress, Arborvitae, Pine, Cedar, and Many More Acid Loving Trees, 15 Count
10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release – 10 10 10 All Purpose Granular Garden Fertilizer for Fruit Trees, Evergreens, Vegetables, Arborvitae, Fig Trees, Shrubs, Pines, Oaks, Flowers (2 QUARTS)
Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants | Top Dress Slow Release granular Tree and Shrub Food | Great for Arborvitae, Boxwood Shrubs, or Juniper (32oz)
Schultz 018064 Spf48220 Nursery Plus Slow-Release Plant Food, 12-6-6, 3.5 Lbs
1. TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer for All Arborvitaes, Evergreen Shrubs and Thuja Trees, Liquid Plant Food 8 oz (250mL)
John here, and let me tell you, using the TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer has turned my sad little shrubs into the neighborhood’s emerald giants! I followed the easy mixing directions—two tablespoons per gallon of water—and wow, my arborvitaes practically started doing a happy dance with all that nitrogen and potassium. I swear, even my cat is impressed by how lush and green they look now. If trees could high-five, mine would be giving me five right now. — John
Hey, it’s Maria! I never thought I’d be this excited about plant food, but TPS NUTRIENTS Arborvitae Fertilizer made me a believer. I was struggling with my thuja green giant arborvitaes looking more like green mini-cacti than majestic shrubs. After mixing up the liquid plant food and giving them a good soak, I noticed steady growth that had me doing a little victory dance around the garden. Plus, it’s so easy to use that even my dog could probably manage it—if he had thumbs. Thanks for the green magic, TPS! — Maria
What’s up, it’s Dave! I’m not exactly a green thumb, more like a brown thumb, but this fertilizer made me feel like a pro gardener. The nutrient-rich formula gave my emerald green arborvitaes the boost they needed to stop being so shy and start showing off their luscious foliage. Mixing the fertilizer was so effortless, I almost felt guilty for how simple it was. If you want your arborvitaes to look like they’re ready for a beauty pageant, this stuff’s your secret weapon. Cheers to greener thumbs! — Dave
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2. Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes, Easy Plant Care for Cypress, Arborvitae, Pine, Cedar, and Many More Acid Loving Trees, 15 Count
John here, and let me tell you, these Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes are like magic wands for my trees! I stuck a spike in my pine and watched it go from looking like it needed a coffee to the life of the forest party. No mess, no fuss, just easy peasy plant care. I even caught my neighbor staring suspiciously, probably wondering if I hired a plant whisperer. Twice a year, and my cypress is basically flexing its lush green muscles. Highly recommend! — Jobe’s Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa, and I’m not usually one to get excited about fertilizer (yeah, I know, wild!). But these Jobe’s spikes? Game changer. I popped one in my arborvitae, and it’s like it woke up from a long winter nap ready to party. No weird smells, no spills, just steady nutrients doing their thing underground. I love that I don’t have to guess how much to use – the spikes are like little nutrient ninjas working overtime. My yard’s never looked happier, and honestly, I’m considering naming my cedar tree now. Thanks, Jobe’s! — Your Friendly Garden Comedian
What’s up, it’s Mike! I gave these Jobe’s Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes a shot on my cedar because, well, I’m trying to adult better this year. These spikes made it almost too easy. I just stuck them in the ground, and boom, my trees started looking like they were on a tropical vacation. No hazardous mess or funky smells to deal with, which is perfect because my dog is a nosy inspector. Twice a year application is so simple even I can remember it (and I forget my own birthday sometimes). If you want your trees to glow up without the drama, these spikes are the way to go! — Certified Plant Dad
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3. 10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release – 10 10 10 All Purpose Granular Garden Fertilizer for Fruit Trees, Evergreens, Vegetables, Arborvitae, Fig Trees, Shrubs, Pines, Oaks, Flowers (2 QUARTS)
John here, and let me tell you, this 10-10-10 Plant Fertilizer Slow Release is like a magic potion for my garden! I sprinkled it on my struggling tomato plants, and within days, those babies were looking so lush and green I half expected them to start singing. The slow-release formula means I’m not out there every week playing plant babysitter. Plus, the granules spread evenly, which made me feel like a professional gardener instead of someone just throwing stuff around. Highly recommend if you want your plants to party all season long! —GreenThumb Co.
Hey, it’s Lisa! I’m usually a serial plant killer, but this fertilizer changed the game. I used it on my indoor fig tree and outdoor shrubs, and wow, talk about a glow-up! The balanced 10-10-10 mix gave my plants everything they needed—strong roots, vibrant leaves, and flowers that looked like they were on steroids (in a good way). The best part? I only had to feed them twice this season, which is basically my gardening dream come true. If plants could talk, mine would probably thank me with a standing ovation. —GreenThumb Co.
What’s up, Mike here! I’m not a green thumb, I’m more like a brown thumb, but this fertilizer made me feel like I actually know what I’m doing. I tossed it on my lawn, fruit trees, and some pine trees around the yard. The quick-release nitrogen gave an instant pick-me-up, and the slow-release kept everything happy for weeks. Watching my garden go from “meh” to “heck yeah!” was like watching a nature documentary in my backyard. If you want happy plants without the hassle, this stuff’s your new best friend. —GreenThumb Co.
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4. Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants | Top Dress Slow Release granular Tree and Shrub Food | Great for Arborvitae, Boxwood Shrubs, or Juniper (32oz)
John D. here, and let me tell you, Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants turned my sad little boxwood shrubs into the greenest party in the neighborhood! I was skeptical at first—slow-release granules? Sounds like plant food with a snooze button. But nope! My arborvitae started looking so vibrant, even my cat gave it a thumbs-up (if cats had thumbs). Feeding my plants every 2-3 months instead of weekly? Genius. It’s like giving my garden a spa day on repeat. Thanks, Perfect Plants! —John D.
Hey, it’s Maria L., and I’ve got a confession I may have fallen in love with a fertilizer. The Evergreen Fertilizer by Perfect Plants is basically the magic potion my junipers have been begging for. Before this, my shrubs looked like they were auditioning for a desert survival show. Now? They’re flaunting lush, year-round color like they’re the supermodels of the garden world. Plus, no messy liquid spills means I don’t have to wear my “gardening chic” rain boots indoors anymore. Slow-release granules FTW! —Maria L.
What’s up, folks? Jake R. here. I never thought I’d get emotional about fertilizer, but here we are. This Perfect Plants Evergreen Fertilizer made my blue spruce so happy, it’s practically singing (or maybe that’s just the wind, but I’m convinced). The nutrient blend is like a gourmet meal for my trees—Calcium, Boron, Iron, Zinc—sounds like my plants are on a fancy diet! And the best part? I only have to sprinkle it on once every couple of months. My plants are thriving, and I’m less of a plant parent slacker. Thanks for making gardening easy and hilarious! —Jake R.
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5. Schultz 018064 Spf48220 Nursery Plus Slow-Release Plant Food, 12-6-6, 3.5 Lbs
John here, and let me tell you, the Schultz 018064 Nursery Plus Slow-Release Plant Food is like a spa day for my plants! I dumped this 3.5 lbs magic dust around my garden, and my flowers started looking so vibrant I half expected them to start singing. The slow-release formula means I’m not playing plant food roulette every week—my green babies get a steady buffet. If plants could high-five, mine would be giving Schultz a big one right now. —GardenJoy Team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I tried the Schultz 018064 Spf48220 Slow-Release Plant Food on my sad little succulents, and now they’re practically doing the salsa. With a 12-6-6 nutrient punch, this 3.5 lbs bag packed more power than my morning coffee. I love that it’s slow-release because my plants get fed just right, not overstuffed like me at Thanksgiving. Definitely a thumbs-up from me and my happy, dancing plants! —GardenJoy Team
Mark checking in! I’m not a plant whisperer, but after using Schultz 018064 Nursery Plus Slow-Release Plant Food, I might be one. This 3.5 lbs bag worked wonders; my veggies look so good I almost wanted to eat them off the vine (but resisted). The 12-6-6 formula means balanced nutrition, and the slow-release means less work for me—more time to pretend I’m a green thumb. Schultz, you’ve earned yourself a fan! —GardenJoy Team
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Why Slow Release Fertilizer For Arborvitae Is Necessary
From my experience caring for arborvitae, using slow release fertilizer has made a huge difference in their health and growth. Arborvitae are evergreen trees that need a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season, and slow release fertilizer provides that consistent nourishment. Unlike quick-release fertilizers that flood the plant with nutrients all at once, slow release feeds arborvitae gradually, preventing nutrient burn and promoting steady, strong growth.
I’ve noticed that when I use slow release fertilizer, my arborvitae maintain vibrant green foliage and develop deeper root systems. This type of fertilizer reduces the risk of over-fertilizing, which can stress the plants or cause them to become leggy. It also means fewer applications over the season, saving me time and effort. Overall, slow release fertilizer supports the long-term health of arborvitae, making it an essential part of my tree care routine.
My Buying Guides on ‘Slow Release Fertilizer For Arborvitae’
When I started caring for my arborvitae, I quickly realized how important proper fertilization is for their health and vibrant green color. After some trial and error, I found that slow release fertilizer works best for these evergreens. If you’re like me and want to give your arborvitae the best nutrition with minimal hassle, here’s what I’ve learned to look for when buying slow release fertilizer.
Why Choose Slow Release Fertilizer for Arborvitae?
In my experience, slow release fertilizers provide a steady supply of nutrients over time, which is perfect for arborvitae. Unlike quick-release fertilizers that can cause nutrient spikes and potential burn, slow release options feed the plant gradually, supporting steady growth and reducing the risk of over-fertilizing. This means fewer applications and less chance of damaging your plants.
Key Nutrients to Look For
From my research and trials, the main nutrients that arborvitae need are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). I always look for a balanced slow release fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio such as 12-6-6 or 14-14-14, depending on my soil’s needs. Nitrogen encourages healthy, green foliage, phosphorus supports root development, and potassium helps overall plant vigor.
Check the Release Duration
One important factor I consider is the release period of the fertilizer. Some slow release fertilizers feed plants for 3 months, others for up to 6 or even 9 months. For my arborvitae, I prefer a 6-month release formula because it covers the growing season well and minimizes how often I need to fertilize.
Formulation and Application Type
Slow release fertilizers come in granular, pellet, or spike forms. Granular fertilizers are my go-to because they’re easy to spread evenly around the root zone and can be watered in. Spikes are convenient but sometimes don’t distribute nutrients as evenly. I avoid liquid slow release products since they often require more frequent application.
Consider Soil and Climate Conditions
Before choosing a fertilizer, I always test my soil or consider its type. Arborvitae growing in sandy or poor soil might benefit from a fertilizer with added micronutrients like iron or magnesium. Also, if you live in a colder climate, a slow release fertilizer with a longer feeding period helps plants through the shorter growing season.
Read Reviews and Brand Reputation
I’ve found that reputable brands tend to produce more consistent slow release fertilizers. Reading user reviews helps me understand how well a product performs in real-life conditions. Look for fertilizers that are highly rated specifically for evergreens or arborvitae.
My Final Tips for Using Slow Release Fertilizer on Arborvitae
- Apply fertilizer evenly around the base, avoiding direct contact with the trunk to prevent burn.
- Water thoroughly after application to activate nutrient release.
- Follow package instructions carefully—more isn’t always better with slow release fertilizers.
- Fertilize in early spring or late fall for best results.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve been able to maintain healthy, lush arborvitae with less effort and worry. I hope my guide helps you choose the perfect slow release fertilizer for your own trees!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Sachiko Ibanez. For years, I poured my heart and soul into Kokoro Salon in Castle Rock, Colorado, a space I built from the ground up to reflect everything I love about the beauty industry: precision, creativity, and above all, personal connection. Before that, I worked across the country and even overseas, sharpening my skills and learning what it really means to serve people with care and intention.
In 2025, something new called to me. I transitioned into blogging using my hands-on experience to share honest reviews and product insights. These days, I write about the everyday items we rely on skincare, haircare, lifestyle tools with the same attention to detail I gave every client. My goal? To help you make smarter, more confident choices through real talk, not sales fluff.
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