When it comes to growing healthy and vibrant boxwoods, selecting the right fertilizer is key. Boxwoods, whether they’re Japanese Boxwoods, English Boxwoods, or Green Mountain Boxwoods, thrive best with the right nutrients in the soil.

The right fertilizer provides essential macro and micronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and various trace elements.

Understanding which type of fertilizer to use can make a significant difference in the growth and overall health of your boxwood shrubs.

This guide will review the 10 best fertilizers for boxwoods, considering various needs and product features.

10 Best Fertilizer For Boxwoods

1. Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed Flowering Trees & Shrubs Plant Food – Best Fertilizer for Boxwoods with Balanced Nutrients

Miracle-Gro Shake ‘N Feed is a great option for boxwoods that need a balanced nutrient mix. This fertilizer contains a slow-release formula that nourishes boxwoods over time, providing them with a steady supply of essential nutrients.

With an N-P-K ratio of 12-4-8, it supports both root and foliage development, ensuring your boxwood stays lush and vibrant. It’s designed to last for up to three months, which is ideal for boxwoods that require consistent care.

The formula is ideal for boxwood varieties like English Boxwoods, which require a steady, long-term feeding schedule to maintain their shape and density. Additionally, it contains micronutrients that boost plant immunity, helping boxwoods resist disease. This fertilizer also promotes strong root development, which is crucial for boxwoods, especially in new plantings.

Pros:

• Slow-release formula
• Ideal N-P-K ratio for boxwoods
• Supports root and foliage growth
• Contains micronutrients
• Protects against disease
• Lasts up to three months

Cons:

• May take time to show results
• Not suitable for acid-loving plants
• Can attract pests if over-applied

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2. Osmocote Smart-Release Flower & Vegetable Plant Food – Best Fertilizer for Boxwoods with Extended Feeding

Osmocote Smart-Release is a popular choice for gardeners looking for extended feeding. With a 14-14-14 NPK ratio, it provides a balanced approach to feeding boxwoods.

This slow-release formula ensures that nutrients are made available over a period of six months, preventing overfeeding and ensuring consistent growth. The formula also includes micronutrients that boost plant health and longevity.

This fertilizer is especially beneficial for Japanese Boxwoods, which require a steady, long-term supply of nutrients. It helps in promoting robust root systems, vibrant foliage, and resistance to common boxwood pests. Furthermore, its formula is designed for both container and in-ground use, making it a versatile choice for boxwood enthusiasts.

Pros:

• Slow-release formula
• Extended feeding period
• Promotes strong root systems
• Micronutrient-rich
• Ideal for container use
• Non-toxic to pets

Cons:

• Requires careful application to avoid overfeeding
• Can be expensive for large gardens
• Not ideal for heavy feeders

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3. Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer Spikes for Shrubs & Trees – Best Organic Fertilizer for Boxwoods

Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer Spikes offer a completely organic solution for feeding boxwoods. The fertilizer spikes are designed for easy application and provide consistent, slow-release nourishment.

With a balanced NPK ratio of 9-9-9, this fertilizer ensures that all essential nutrients are delivered to the roots. Ideal for gardeners looking for an eco-friendly option, it contains natural ingredients like bone meal and feather meal.

This fertilizer is particularly beneficial for Green Mountain Boxwoods, which require high-quality organic matter to grow strong and healthy. It promotes long-lasting root development and disease resistance while avoiding harmful chemicals. Additionally, it’s safe for the environment and beneficial insects, making it a great choice for those who prioritize sustainability.

Pros:

• Organic ingredients
• Easy-to-use spikes
• Slow-release formula
• Non-toxic to wildlife
• Improves soil health
• Promotes disease resistance

Cons:

• Spikes can be hard to insert into rocky soil
• May need frequent reapplication
• Higher cost than conventional fertilizers

4. Espoma Plant-tone Organic Fertilizer – Best All-Natural Fertilizer for Boxwoods

Espoma Plant-tone Organic Fertilizer is a trusted brand in organic gardening. With a well-balanced NPK ratio of 5-3-3, this fertilizer provides slow, steady nutrition to boxwoods. The mix is designed to work well with a wide range of shrubs and trees, including boxwoods, by promoting healthy root systems and foliage.

Espoma’s organic approach includes ingredients like feather meal, bone meal, and alfalfa meal, which enrich the soil and improve its texture.

Espoma is particularly good for Japanese Boxwoods, which benefit from the gentle, organic feeding it provides. Over time, it improves soil health, leading to better water retention and root growth. This fertilizer is also ideal for gardeners who prefer a natural approach to plant care without using synthetic chemicals.

Pros:

• Organic, all-natural ingredients
• Promotes soil health
• Gentle on plants
• Long-lasting effect
• Improves water retention
• Enhances root growth

Cons:

• Requires more frequent applications
• Less concentrated than synthetic options
• Slightly more expensive than chemical fertilizers

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5. Homemade Fertilizer for Boxwoods – Best DIY homemade fertilizer for boxwoods

For eco-conscious gardeners or those who prefer a more affordable solution, homemade fertilizers for boxwoods are an excellent choice. Creating your own fertilizer mix allows you to control the ingredients and ensure your boxwoods get exactly what they need.

A simple mixture of coffee grounds, banana peels, and egg shells can provide boxwoods with nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. These natural ingredients improve soil texture and encourage healthy root systems.

For boxwood varieties such as English Boxwoods, this homemade fertilizer is ideal for those looking to avoid chemicals. The slow-release nature of these ingredients ensures that your boxwoods receive continuous nourishment without the risk of over-fertilizing. Additionally, homemade fertilizers are a sustainable, low-cost alternative for nurturing your plants.

Pros:

• Low cost
• Customizable to your needs
• Sustainable and eco-friendly
• Easy to make
• Chemical-free
• Improves soil structure

Cons:

• Can be time-consuming to make
• May not provide all essential nutrients
• Needs to be replenished frequently

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6. 10-6-4 Urea Fertilizer for Boxwoods – Best 10-6-4 urea fertilizer for boxwoods Promoting Strong Foliage

Urea-based fertilizers like 10-6-4 Urea Fertilizer for Boxwoods are high in nitrogen, making them a great option for promoting lush green foliage. The 10-6-4 ratio is ideal for boxwoods as it ensures a sufficient amount of nitrogen to support new growth while providing adequate amounts of phosphorus and potassium for overall plant health. Urea fertilizers are fast-acting and help boost the vibrancy of boxwood foliage, particularly useful in areas with poor soil.

For boxwoods such as Green Mountain Boxwoods, this fertilizer helps achieve a robust and dense canopy. However, it should be used carefully to avoid excessive nitrogen, which could lead to overgrowth and potentially harm the plant. When applied correctly, 10-6-4 Urea Fertilizer enhances the health and appearance of your boxwoods, giving them that classic green, dense look.

Pros:

• High nitrogen content
• Fast-acting
• Promotes lush foliage
• Ideal for nitrogen-hungry plants
• Improves soil fertility
• Cost-effective

Cons:

• Can cause leaf burn if over-applied
• Not suitable for acid-loving plants
• Needs precise application

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7. Is 10-10-10 Fertilizer Good for Boxwoods? – Best General Purpose 10-10-10 fertilizer good for boxwoods

10-10-10 Fertilizer is a versatile and balanced fertilizer that works well for a variety of shrubs, including boxwoods. With an equal NPK ratio of 10-10-10, it provides balanced nourishment to your plants, promoting healthy root development, vibrant foliage, and strong overall growth.

This type of fertilizer is particularly useful for boxwood varieties such as Japanese Boxwoods, which require a steady supply of all three nutrients in balanced proportions.

Using 10-10-10 fertilizer on boxwoods is effective for general growth, and it’s safe to use on both newly planted and established plants. However, while it’s a great all-purpose fertilizer, some boxwoods may require a more specialized formula to address specific nutrient deficiencies. As always, be mindful of application rates to avoid over-fertilizing.

Pros:

• Balanced NPK ratio
• All-purpose formula
• Ideal for general growth
• Safe for new plants
• Promotes healthy foliage
• Widely available

Cons:

• May not address specific nutrient deficiencies
• Can be excessive for low-nutrient soils
• Not as eco-friendly as organic options

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8. What to Fertilize Boxwoods With – Best Fertilizer for Yellowing Boxwoods

If your boxwoods are showing signs of yellowing leaves, it may be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Fertilizers that are higher in iron and nitrogen can help restore the green color to yellowing leaves.

A fertilizer like Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Azalea, Camellia, Rhododendron Plant Food is designed to provide not only nitrogen but also essential micronutrients like iron, which are crucial for restoring the healthy green color to your boxwoods.

Yellowing can also be caused by poor soil drainage, so pairing this fertilizer with soil amendments that improve water retention will help keep your boxwoods healthy. Additionally, fertilizers with a higher ratio of nitrogen will encourage lush growth and help green up your boxwoods more effectively.

Pros:

• Restores green color
• Provides essential micronutrients
• Ideal for yellowing plants
• Easy to apply
• Promotes strong foliage growth
• Quick results

Cons:

• May need reapplication for persistent yellowing
• Not suitable for all soil types
• Could lead to overgrowth if applied excessively

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9. TOPBUXUS Boxwood Fertilizer – Best Fertilizer for Boxwoods in Georgia

TOPBUXUS Boxwood Fertilizer is specifically designed for boxwoods and has a well-balanced nutrient ratio to support the health of boxwoods in all climates, including those in Georgia.

With a special blend of nutrients designed to address the needs of boxwoods, this fertilizer helps to prevent yellowing and promotes green, lush foliage. The formula is rich in nitrogen and includes additional micronutrients for optimal root growth.

TOPBUXUS is particularly effective for English Boxwoods, which are often susceptible to poor growth in warm climates. This product works to improve soil structure, enhance root development, and boost overall plant health. Ideal for those living in southern regions, this fertilizer helps boxwoods thrive despite the challenges of heat and humidity.

Pros:

• Specifically designed for boxwoods
• Rich in micronutrients
• Prevents yellowing
• Enhances root growth
• Ideal for warm climates
• Safe for long-term use

Cons:

• Premium-priced
• May not be available everywhere
• Not organic

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10. 10-6-4 Fertilizer – best fertilizer for boxwoods in low-nutrient soils

For boxwoods planted in low-nutrient soils, the 10-6-4 fertilizer provides an effective nutrient boost. The formula, with its balanced blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, helps boxwoods overcome deficiencies that can stunt their growth. It supports a stronger root system, denser foliage, and overall plant health.

This fertilizer is particularly useful for boxwoods in newly established gardens or areas where the soil has been depleted of essential nutrients.

When applied correctly, 10-6-4 fertilizer ensures that boxwoods get the right nutrition to survive and thrive. It is particularly effective for Japanese Boxwoods, which benefit from a nutrient boost in poor soil. Regular application ensures sustained plant health, promoting vibrant green growth and a healthy root system.

Pros:

• Ideal for low-nutrient soils
• Supports root and foliage health
• Provides a balanced nutrient mix
• Promotes dense, lush growth
• Suitable for new plantings
• Easy to apply

Cons:

• Can cause nutrient imbalance if over-applied
• Not suitable for acid-loving plants
• Needs to be used with care in established gardens

Tips for Choosing the Best Fertilizer for Boxwoods

When selecting a fertilizer for boxwoods, consider the following:

Fertilizer Type – Boxwoods can benefit from both slow-release and quick-release fertilizers. Slow-release fertilizer for boxwoods provides consistent nourishment over time, ensuring your plants receive steady nutrients. On the other hand, quick-release formulas give an immediate nutrient boost, helping boxwoods recover from stress or promote rapid growth during the growing season.

Nutrient Balance – A well-balanced fertilizer for boxwoods is essential for optimal plant health. Look for fertilizers with a balanced NPK ratio, such as 10-10-10, which ensures the correct mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This balance supports healthy foliage, strong roots, and overall growth, allowing your boxwoods to thrive.

Organic vs. Synthetic – When choosing fertilizer for boxwoods, consider whether you want an organic or synthetic option. Organic fertilizers are ideal for eco-conscious gardeners and improve soil health over time, while synthetic fertilizers may offer faster results and higher nutrient concentration. Both options can work well, but it depends on your preference and gardening goals.

Time of Application – The timing of applying fertilizer for boxwoods plays a crucial role in plant health. For optimal results, apply fertilizer in early spring or late fall, when boxwoods are actively growing. This ensures that the nutrients are absorbed when the plants need them most, encouraging healthy growth and preparing them for the colder months.

Best Fertilizer For Boxwoods (FAQs)

1. What is the best fertilizer ratio for boxwoods? The ideal NPK ratio for boxwoods is typically 10-10-10 or 12-4-8, as these ratios provide balanced nutrition for foliage and root development.
2. How often should I fertilize my boxwoods? Boxwoods should be fertilized once in early spring and again in late fall for optimal growth.
3. Can I use a chemical fertilizer on my boxwoods? Yes, you can use chemical fertilizers, but organic options may be gentler and more beneficial for long-term soil health.
4. Is slow-release fertilizer better for boxwoods? Yes, slow-release fertilizers are ideal as they provide steady nutrition over time, reducing the risk of over-fertilizing.
5. What are the signs of over-fertilizing boxwoods? Over-fertilizing boxwoods can cause burnt leaves, yellowing, or stunted growth.
6. How do I know if my boxwoods need fertilizer? Yellowing leaves or poor growth can be signs that your boxwoods need more nutrients.
7. Can I use the same fertilizer for all types of boxwoods? Yes, most boxwood varieties benefit from the same types of fertilizer, but it’s essential to choose one with the right nutrient balance.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, choosing the best fertilizer for boxwoods depends on specific needs, such as soil quality and plant health. For those looking for an organic solution, homemade fertilizer for boxwoods offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly option, with ingredients like coffee grounds and banana peels.

However, for faster results, 10-6-4 urea fertilizer for boxwoods provides a quick nutrient boost, especially for boxwoods with high nitrogen requirements. If you’re wondering, is 10-10-10 fertilizer good for boxwoods, the answer is yes, as it offers a balanced nutrient ratio that supports healthy growth and vibrant foliage.

For boxwoods showing signs of stress or yellowing, it’s important to know what to fertilize boxwoods with to restore green color, with fertilizers rich in iron and nitrogen being ideal. TOPBUXUS Boxwood Fertilizer is an excellent choice, especially for southern climates like Georgia, where boxwoods thrive.

For those with specific soil conditions, 10-6-4 fertilizer works well, providing a balanced mix of nutrients that supports both root and foliage growth. Ultimately, the right fertilizer will depend on your boxwood’s particular needs, ensuring it stays healthy and vibrant throughout the year