Arborvitae and other evergreens thrive with steady, targeted nutrition that reaches the root zone where they grow. Fertilizer spikes offer a low-muss, low-waste way to feed these plants without overwatering or runoff. This guide reviews five top options designed to support healthy growth, vibrant foliage, and deep green color in Arborvitae, cypress, pine, and related evergreens. Each product below lists key benefits, application tips, and how it performs for common evergreen care scenarios.
| Product | Brand | Form | Notable Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes | Jobe’s Organics | 15 spikes | Reduces runoff; feeds below the surface |
| Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food Spikes | Miracle-Gro | 12 spikes | Direct root nourishment for color and foliage |
| Power Spike for EVERGREENS | Power Strike Home & Garden | 10 spikes | Fortified with iron for deep green growth |
| Jobe’s Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes | Jobe’s Organics | 15 spikes | Slow-release, 13-3-4 formulation |
| Winchester Gardens Landscaper Pack Evergreen Spikes | Winchester Gardens | 70 spikes per case | Low-mess, low-runoff formula |
| Arborvitae Liquid Fertilizer | TPS NUTRIENTS | 1 gallon | Direct liquid feed for Arborvitae and related evergreens |
Note: The table above highlights the products most relevant to arborvitae care. The choice between spikes and liquid fertilizer depends on your planting density, soil type, and personal preference for application frequency. Always follow package directions for spacing and reapplication intervals to minimize risk of fertilizer burn and ensure even distribution.
Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes
Jobe’s Slow Release Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes are formulated to deliver nutrients directly to the roots of evergreen species such as Arborvitae, cypress, pine, and cedar. The package contains 15 spikes designed to reduce wasteful runoff and smells associated with some other feeding methods. The 13-3-4 NPK ratio supports a steady supply of nutrients beneath the surface where active roots absorb them. Application is simple and typically recommended twice yearly—early spring and late fall—making this a convenient option for homeowners seeking reliable, low-effort feeding.
Miracle-Gro Tree And Shrub Plant Food Spikes
Miracle-Gro Tree & Shrub Plant Food Spikes are designed to promote vibrant color and lush foliage across deciduous, flowering, and evergreen trees, including acid-loving varieties. The formula feeds directly at the roots where trees need nourishment most, delivering consistent nutrients with minimal effort. The 12-spike package is well-suited for medium to larger trees or clusters of evergreens, providing a straightforward feeding schedule that helps trees stay robust during the growing season.
Power Spike for EVERGREENS
Power Spike for EVERGREENS combines fertilizer with micronutrients to support all evergreen types, including arborvitae. The spikes address common soil deficiencies and are fortified with iron to deliver a deep green luster at the root zone. This makes them a strong choice for gardeners dealing with pale foliage or slow growth, as the formulation targets both macro- and micronutrient needs for robust evergreen health and sustained root development.
Jobe’s 01661 Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes
Jobe’s Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes are specifically formulated for evergreen trees and shrubs, providing a slow-release 13-3-4 nutrient mix. The 15-pack is designed to deliver nutrients steadily over time, reducing risk of fertilizer burn while supporting ongoing growth and vigor for arborvitae and related species. The brown spikes are easy to insert around the drip line, making them a practical option for routine evergreen care in yards and landscapes.
Winchester Gardens Evergreen Spikes
Winchester Gardens Landscaper Pack Evergreen Fertilizer Spikes provide a high-spike-count option with a focus on easy, no-mess application. The package contains 70 spikes per case, designed to support healthy growth and macronutrient balance for evergreen trees. The product emphasizes a low-profile, pet- and child-friendly application method, minimizing runoff while delivering nutrients where roots actively absorb them.
Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer For All Arborvitaes
TPS NUTRIENTS offers Arborvitae Tree Fertilizer as a liquid option designed specifically for arborvitae and related evergreen trees and shrubs. Liquid plant foods can provide rapid uptake, particularly in soils with slower nutrient availability. This gallon-sized formula allows flexible application, making it suitable for larger landscapes or for growers seeking frequent, direct feeding into the root zone or foliar uptake depending on the product directions.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For Arborvitae Fertilizers
- Form and delivery method: Spikes provide slow-release feeding at the root zone with minimal mess, while liquids offer quicker uptake and adjustable application frequency. Consider your soil type, climate, and irrigation routine when choosing.
- NPK balance and micronutrients: Look for a balanced NPK ratio around 13-3-4 or similar, with added micronutrients such as iron to promote deep green foliage. Evergreen health often benefits from iron supplementation in soils with chlorosis.
- Root zone targeting: Fertilizers should be positioned within the drip line where main feeder roots reside. Avoid placing spikes directly against trunks to reduce risk of damage or burn.
- Application frequency: Some products require seasonal treatment (early spring and late fall), while liquids may allow more flexible irrigation-based dosing. Follow product guidelines for best results.
- Correction of deficiencies: For soils showing pale growth or slow development, iron-enriched formulas and micronutrient boosts can address common deficiencies seen in evergreen landscapes.
- Safety and runoff: Choose products designed to minimize runoff and odor, especially for home landscapes near patios or play areas. Proper watering after application helps distribute nutrients without concentrating salts at the surface.
- Plant compatibility: Most spikes are suitable for arborvitae, cypress, pine, cedar, and related evergreens. Verify that the product is labeled for evergreen trees and acid-loving species if applicable to your site.
- Safety for pets and children: Some formulations emphasize low-mess and low-risk after application. Always store products out of reach and follow label directions for near-pedestrian areas.
The right fertilizer approach for arborvitae balances leaf color, growth rate, and overall plant vigor. When selecting a product, weigh ease of use, soil health considerations, and how quickly you want nutrients to reach the root zone. With careful application, evergreen landscapes can maintain strong structure, rich color, and resilient growth across seasons.