When it comes to cultivating healthy, lush hedges, using the right fertilizer is key. Hedges, whether they’re boxwood, privet, or leylandii, all require specific care to thrive, and choosing the best fertilizer for hedges can make a big difference.

Hedge Fertilizers provide the necessary nutrients to boost hedge growth, enhance green foliage, and improve resistance to pests and diseases.

Whether you’re in the UK, Australia, or anywhere else, there is a fertilizer  brand that suits your Hedge  variety 

In this article, we’ll review the 10 best fertilizers for hedges, breaking down each product’s features, pros, and cons, ensuring you can make the best choice for your hedges. . Keep reading to learn which fertilizers offer slow-release formulas, organic benefits, and the ideal nutrient ratio for your specific hedge needs.

10 Best Fertilizer For Hedges

1. Miracle-Gro Evergreen Fertilizer (Best Evergreen Fertilizer for Hedges)

Miracle-Gro Evergreen Fertilizer is designed specifically for evergreen hedges like boxwoods and yews, offering them the nutrients needed for vibrant green growth all year round. This fertilizer contains a balanced NPK ratio (24-8-16), ensuring a steady supply of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support leaf and root development. The slow-release formula provides continuous feeding for up to 3 months, making it ideal for reducing the frequency of application.

Evergreens thrive on this fertilizer as it provides excellent nutritional support without overloading the plants with nutrients. The easy-to-use granules are suitable for use in all climates, ensuring that your evergreen hedges stay lush and healthy throughout the seasons. In addition to its balanced formula, the fertilizer also helps to strengthen your hedge’s resistance to environmental stresses, including drought.

Pros:

• Slow-release formula
• Suitable for evergreens
• Non-burning
• Easy to apply
• Promotes healthy growth
• Improves drought resistance
• Long-lasting results

Cons:

• Can be too strong for some plants
• Requires frequent watering after application
• Not for flowering hedges

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2. Osmocote Smart-Release Flower & Vegetable Fertilizer (Best Fertilizer for Flowering Hedges)

For those with flowering hedges such as lilacs and camellias, Osmocote Smart-Release Flower & Vegetable Fertilizer provides essential nutrients tailored to promote vibrant flowers and robust growth. With an NPK ratio of 14-14-14, this fertilizer offers balanced nourishment to encourage blooming without compromising the plant’s health. The controlled-release mechanism ensures that nutrients are dispensed slowly, allowing your flowering hedges to flourish.

One of the key advantages of this fertilizer is its ability to boost both foliage and flowers, thanks to its balanced nutrient profile. Whether your hedge is in full sun or partial shade, Osmocote’s blend is effective in helping your plants grow strong, flower prolifically, and resist common garden pests. It’s perfect for use in garden beds and containers, providing a versatile feeding solution for hedges.

Pros:

• Balanced nutrient mix
• Ideal for flowering hedges
• Smart-release formula
• Encourages strong blooms
• Non-toxic to plants
• Easy to use
• Works in various climates

Cons:

• Not for evergreen hedges
• Can overfeed if not applied properly
• Slightly more expensive

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3. Greenview Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer (Best Fertilizer for Lawn & Hedge Combo)

Greenview Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer is perfect for those who have both hedges and lawns, providing a dual-purpose fertilizer that enhances the growth of both. With a slightly higher nitrogen content (30-0-4), it promotes lush green foliage while helping hedges maintain a healthy, dense growth pattern. It also strengthens the root system and improves drought resistance, making it ideal for those in warmer climates.

This fertilizer is a great choice if you want to take care of both your hedge and lawn simultaneously. It can be applied with a spreader and offers even coverage, which ensures your hedges receive the right nutrients. Greenview’s long-lasting formula allows for fewer applications and better results, especially for those who want to maintain a uniform and healthy landscape.

Pros:

• Great for lawns and hedges
• High nitrogen content
• Promotes root health
• Drought-resistant
• Even coverage
• Long-lasting results
• Easy application

Cons:

• Too strong for some hedges
• Not ideal for flowering plants
• May require extra watering

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4. Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer Spikes (Best Organic Fertilizer for Hedges)

For those who prefer an organic approach to maintaining healthy hedges, Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer Spikes are a great option. These spikes are infused with a blend of organic nutrients, such as feather meal, bone meal, and sulfate of potash, designed to feed hedges naturally. With an NPK ratio of 4-4-4, Jobe’s Organics is gentle yet effective, providing steady nourishment without the use of harsh chemicals.

The fertilizer spikes are easy to apply and release nutrients directly to the root zone, where they are most needed. These spikes are perfect for individuals looking to cultivate a more eco-friendly garden while ensuring their hedges grow strong, green, and healthy. They are especially beneficial for hedge varieties that are sensitive to synthetic fertilizers, such as boxwood or holly.

Pros:

• Organic ingredients
• Easy to apply
• Slow-release
• Gentle on plants
• Eco-friendly
• Great for sensitive plants
• Boosts soil health

Cons:

• Requires more time to see results
• Not ideal for quick growth
• May need reapplication

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5. Espoma Holly-tone Organic Fertilizer (Best Fertilizer for Holly Hedges)

Espoma Holly-tone Organic Fertilizer is formulated specifically for acid-loving plants, such as holly and azaleas, making it one of the best fertilizers for hedges like those in the Ilex genus. The fertilizer has an NPK ratio of 4-3-4, which is perfect for promoting healthy root systems and encouraging lush foliage. It is 100% organic, using natural ingredients like bone meal and poultry manure.

Espoma’s formula helps to enhance soil acidity, a crucial factor for holly hedges and other acid-loving plants. The slow-release nature of this fertilizer ensures that your hedges get consistent nutrition over time, allowing for steady growth and vibrant green leaves. It is an ideal choice for gardeners looking for an organic solution to maintaining their hedges while improving soil health.

Pros:

• Perfect for holly
• Organic ingredients
• Improves soil health
• Encourages strong roots
• Balanced nutrient ratio
• Long-lasting effects
• Easy application

Cons:

• Not for all hedge types
• Can be too weak for fast-growing hedges
• Requires regular reapplication

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6. Scotts Evergreen Flower & Vegetable Fertilizer (Best Fertilizer for Mixed Plantings)

Scotts Evergreen Flower & Vegetable Fertilizer is an excellent choice for mixed hedge plantings that feature both evergreen and flowering plants. This fertilizer offers an NPK ratio of 15-5-10, promoting vibrant green growth while encouraging blooming in flowering hedges. The formula works well in a variety of soil types and conditions, making it a versatile option for gardeners.

Its slow-release granules ensure that the plants receive continuous nutrients over a longer period, preventing over-fertilization and promoting healthy, sustainable growth. Scotts fertilizer is particularly beneficial for gardeners with a variety of hedge species that need balanced care. The formula supports strong root systems, healthy foliage, and vibrant blooms.

Pros:

• Versatile use
• Encourages blooms
• Slow-release formula
• Ideal for mixed plantings
• Supports healthy roots
• Works in various soils
• Long-lasting nutrition

Cons:

• Not specifically for all hedges
• Needs regular watering
• Expensive for some gardeners

 

7. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food – Best Liquid Fertilizer for Hedges
Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is a versatile liquid fertilizer that is perfect for hedges. The balanced formula provides a mix of essential nutrients that will support hedge growth while ensuring deep green foliage. It is especially effective in promoting strong, healthy growth for evergreen and other hardy hedge plants. As a liquid fertilizer, it quickly reaches the roots, delivering nutrients fast for noticeable results. Miracle-Gro is widely praised for its convenience, as it can be mixed with water and applied directly to the soil or foliage. This fertilizer is great for a wide variety of hedge plants, providing the perfect balance for feeding them all season long.

The fertilizer’s fast-acting formula gives a quick response, making it ideal for those who want rapid results. However, it’s important to follow the application instructions carefully to avoid over-fertilization. The mixable powder ensures easy storage and application, offering excellent value for gardeners managing large hedge areas. For those looking to provide consistent nourishment to their plants, Miracle-Gro’s Water Soluble Plant Food offers an excellent solution.

Pros:

• Fast acting
• Easy application
• Promotes lush growth
• Affordable
• Ideal for evergreen hedges
• Mixable with water
• Widely available

Cons:

• Requires regular reapplication
• Overuse can harm plants
• May require larger quantity

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8. Espoma Organic Tree-tone – Best Organic Fertilizer for Hedges
Espoma Organic Tree-tone is a trusted fertilizer for those looking to go the organic route for their hedges. Formulated with natural ingredients, Tree-tone is ideal for hedges, trees, and shrubs, providing essential nutrients in a safe and sustainable manner. The slow-release formula provides a long-term solution for keeping hedges healthy and green. It contains a blend of poultry manure, feather meal, and other organic nutrients, which help feed hedges over an extended period of time. Espoma’s Tree-tone also improves soil structure, ensuring that nutrients are more readily available to your hedge plants. It is particularly suitable for organic gardeners who want to avoid synthetic chemicals while promoting hedge growth.

Espoma Organic Tree-tone is known for enriching the soil, making it an excellent option for those who want to improve the health of their garden environment over time. The slow-release formulation ensures your hedges are continuously fed, which can improve long-term results. While organic fertilizers are generally slower to show results than synthetic fertilizers, the sustainable and eco-friendly formula ensures plants thrive without harm to the environment.

Pros:

• Organic
• Long-lasting results
• Improves soil health
• Safe for pets
• Slow-release formula
• Eco-friendly
• Rich in nutrients

Cons:

• Slower results
• Can be more expensive
• Requires larger quantities

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9. Jobe’s Organics Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes – Best Fertilizer Spikes for Hedges
Jobe’s Organics Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes are a convenient and effective option for hedges. These spikes deliver nutrients directly to the root zone, where they are needed most, ensuring healthy growth and robust foliage. The slow-release formula works over time, providing consistent nourishment for hedges, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. Each spike is rich in essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, ideal for ensuring the vitality of hedges. The spikes are easy to insert into the soil, making them perfect for gardeners who want a no-mess solution for fertilizing their hedge plants. Whether you are working with a small hedge or a larger landscape, Jobe’s fertilizer spikes are the perfect way to ensure proper nutrition.

These spikes are particularly beneficial for dense, woody hedges that need a deep supply of nutrients. Since they are slow-release, the fertilizer continues to nourish your hedges for several weeks, giving you peace of mind that your plants are properly fed throughout their growing season.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• No mess
• Slow-release nutrients
• Long-lasting
• Suitable for dense hedges
• Perfect for larger hedges
• Organic formula

Cons:

• Initial cost higher
• Limited to root-zone use
• Can be hard to remove

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10. GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer – Best Fertilizer for Green, Lush Hedge Growth
GreenView Fairway Formula Lawn Fertilizer is an excellent choice for hedges that need a boost of nutrients to achieve a vibrant, lush green color. Formulated with a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, it’s perfect for feeding a variety of plants, including hedges. This granular fertilizer is designed to be used for lawns but works exceptionally well on hedges as well. The fertilizer works in both the short and long term, providing quick green-up and promoting sustained growth. GreenView is known for its high-quality ingredients that promote strong root development and overall plant health. This fertilizer is great for maintaining healthy hedges that are green, thick, and resilient to pests.

It is particularly effective when applied in early spring or late fall, ensuring that your hedges receive the nutrients they need to thrive during peak growing seasons. The formulation is suitable for different types of hedges, making it a versatile product for any gardener looking to enhance their hedge care.

Pros:

• Excellent for green-up
• High-quality ingredients
• Works on different plants
• Improves root development
• Easy to apply
• Granular form
• Long-term results

Cons:

• May require multiple applications
• Can be expensive
• Needs water after application

11. Scotts Evergreen Flower & Shrub Continuous Release Plant Food (4 lbs) – Best Fertilizer for Hedges (4 lbs to 8 lbs)
Are you wondering which 4 pound to 8 pound fertilizer is best for hedges? Well, the Scotts Evergreen Flower & Shrub Continuous Release Plant Food is a premium fertilizer designed specifically for evergreen shrubs, trees, and hedges. This 4-pound package is ideal for gardeners looking to nourish their hedges with a controlled, slow-release formula that lasts up to two months.

The balanced 14-14-14 nutrient ratio ensures that your hedges receive an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, promoting overall health and consistent growth. This fertilizer helps in developing strong roots, healthy foliage, and vibrant color for your hedges, particularly during the growing season.

It’s perfect for those who want an easy-to-apply, efficient solution that provides ongoing nourishment. Simply apply the granules around the base of the plant, and let the slow-release formula do the work, reducing the need for frequent reapplications.

The fertilizer’s continuous-release action allows your hedges to get the nutrients they need over time without worrying about nutrient burn or over-fertilization. Scotts Evergreen Flower & Shrub Plant Food is also designed to help increase disease resistance, making it an excellent option for maintaining the health of your hedges year-round.

Pros:

• Slow-release formula
• Ideal for evergreens
• Promotes vibrant growth
• Easy to apply
• Long-lasting
• Disease-resistant
• Balanced nutrient ratio

Cons:

• Smaller package size
• Requires proper application
• Can be a bit pricey

12. Osmocote Plus Organics All Purpose Plant Food – Best Fertilizer for Hedges (Australia)

Osmocote Plus Organics All Purpose Plant Food is an excellent choice for Australian gardeners seeking a reliable and high-quality fertilizer for hedges. This slow-release formula is enriched with organic ingredients and provides balanced nutrition, promoting strong root development, lush foliage, and vibrant color for various hedge types. The 6-month release period makes it convenient for gardeners, as it reduces the need for frequent reapplications. With a nutrient ratio of 14-6-8, it supports healthy growth in a wide range of plants, including evergreens, flowering shrubs, and decorative hedges.

Designed for use in Australian soil conditions, Osmocote Plus Organics is tailored to address the specific nutrient needs of hedges growing in temperate climates. The organic content helps improve soil structure, retain moisture, and reduce runoff, making it an eco-friendly choice. Ideal for gardeners looking for a long-lasting and effective fertilizer, this product ensures that your hedges stay healthy throughout the year.

Pros:

• Slow-release formula
• Organic ingredients
• Long-lasting results
• Improves soil structure
• Suitable for various hedges
• Eco-friendly
• Enhances plant health

Cons:

• Higher cost
• Needs proper application
• Limited availability in some regions

13. Neudorff Fish, Blood & Bone Fertilizer – Best Fish, Blood, and Bone Fertilizer for Hedges

Neudorff Fish, Blood & Bone Fertilizer is a highly effective, natural organic fertilizer that provides essential nutrients for hedges, promoting healthy growth and strong root systems. This product combines fish meal, blood meal, and bone meal, offering a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium that supports robust plant health.

Ideal for gardeners looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly fertilizer, Neudorff Fish, Blood & Bone Fertilizer is perfect for nourishing hedges, including deciduous, evergreen, and flowering varieties. The natural ingredients ensure your hedges receive nutrients slowly and steadily, improving soil fertility and encouraging long-term growth.

Rich in essential micronutrients, this fertilizer also helps prevent nutrient deficiencies and promotes overall hedge vitality. Neudorff’s Fish, Blood & Bone Fertilizer is ideal for hedges in a variety of soil types and climates, making it a versatile solution for gardeners seeking a reliable product for both new and established hedges. With its organic composition, it is safe for the environment and beneficial for soil health, reducing the need for chemical-based fertilizers. This product’s natural formula also helps boost disease resistance, ensuring your hedges remain strong and vibrant year-round.

Pros:

• Organic ingredients
• Slow-release formula
• Rich in micronutrients
• Boosts soil fertility
• Improves plant health
• Promotes disease resistance
• Safe for the environment

Cons:

• Strong odor
• Needs to be mixed with soil
• May require reapplication

11. Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food (15-5-10) – Best 15-5-10 Fertilizer for Privet

Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food is a versatile and highly effective fertilizer for privet hedges, offering a balanced 15-5-10 nutrient ratio. This fertilizer is ideal for promoting strong growth and lush greenery in privet hedges, as the higher nitrogen (15) content encourages leafy growth, while the balanced phosphorus (5) and potassium (10) levels ensure robust root development and increased resistance to stress.

As a water-soluble option, Miracle-Gro provides fast-acting nutrients, making it perfect for gardeners looking to boost their privet hedges’ growth quickly.

Designed for use in all types of plants, including hedges, this fertilizer works wonders on privet by enhancing its overall health and promoting vigorous, dense foliage. It can be used in both containers and in-ground plantings, offering flexibility for gardeners with different growing conditions.

Additionally, Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Plant Food can be easily applied using a watering can or a garden sprayer, ensuring even distribution of nutrients. The fast-acting formula guarantees that your privet hedge will thrive, making it a must-have for gardeners seeking a healthy, well-established hedge.

Pros:

• Fast-acting formula
• Easy to apply
• Promotes lush growth
• Boosts root development
• Suitable for all plants
• Versatile use (indoor/outdoor)
• Balanced nutrient ratio

Cons:

• Requires frequent reapplication
• Needs to be diluted
• Potential for over-fertilization

12. Osmocote Plus Organics Flower & Vegetable Fertilizer – Best Fertilizer for Box Hedges

Osmocote Plus Organics Flower & Vegetable Fertilizer is an ideal choice for box hedges, offering a balanced nutrient profile that promotes healthy and lush growth. This slow-release formula contains a blend of natural ingredients, including organic matter and essential nutrients, making it perfect for maintaining the vibrant green color and compact shape of box hedges.

With a balanced NPK ratio of 14-14-14, this fertilizer delivers the right amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to support overall hedge health. The slow-release nature ensures long-lasting results, reducing the need for frequent applications.

Box hedges, known for their neat, dense growth, require consistent feeding to maintain their shape and health. Osmocote Plus Organics is designed to meet these needs, providing steady nutrition over time. The formula also helps improve soil structure, retain moisture, and increase resistance to pests and diseases, keeping your box hedges looking their best throughout the year. It is safe for use around children and pets, making it an environmentally-friendly option for those who prefer organic gardening practices.

Pros:

• Organic formula
• Slow-release action
• Balanced nutrient ratio
• Improves soil structure
• Safe for pets
• Long-lasting results
• Eco-friendly

Cons:

• Higher cost
• Requires proper application
• Limited availability in some regions

Best Fertilizer For Hedges  FAQs

1. What is the best fertilizer for hedges?
The best fertilizer for hedges depends on the type of hedge you have, but balanced fertilizers with a ratio of 10-10-10 or slow-release organic options are typically ideal. Some popular choices include Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, Espoma Organic Tree-tone, and Jobe’s Organics Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes. For evergreen hedges, consider using slow-release fertilizers that nourish the plants over time.

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2. How often should I fertilize my hedges?
Hedges should generally be fertilized once or twice a year, typically in early spring and again in late summer. However, slow-release fertilizers can provide extended nourishment, reducing the need for frequent applications. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the fertilizer packaging to avoid over-fertilizing your hedges.

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3. Can I use liquid fertilizer for hedges?
Yes, liquid fertilizers are an excellent option for hedges as they provide fast-acting nutrients. Products like Miracle-Gro Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food deliver nutrients directly to the roots and leaves, promoting quick growth and a lush appearance. Liquid fertilizers should be applied carefully to prevent over-watering or runoff.

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4. What type of fertilizer is best for evergreen hedges?
For evergreen hedges, slow-release fertilizers that provide a steady supply of nutrients over a long period are ideal. Fertilizers like Espoma Organic Tree-tone or Jobe’s Organics Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes are great choices as they provide balanced nutrients and support the year-round health of evergreen hedges.

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5. Are organic fertilizers good for hedges?
Yes, organic fertilizers like Espoma Organic Tree-tone and Jobe’s Organics Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes are excellent for hedges. They provide natural, slow-release nutrients that enrich the soil, improve soil structure, and are safe for the environment. Organic fertilizers are particularly beneficial for gardeners seeking eco-friendly options without synthetic chemicals.

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6. Can I use fertilizer spikes for hedges?
Fertilizer spikes, such as Jobe’s Organics Tree & Shrub Fertilizer Spikes, are a convenient and efficient way to deliver nutrients directly to the root zone. They are especially beneficial for deep-feeding hedges and can be used for a variety of hedge types, including woody plants and evergreens. Fertilizer spikes offer slow-release nutrients, reducing the need for frequent applications.

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7. How do I know if my hedges need fertilizer?
Signs that your hedges may need fertilizer include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or sparse foliage. If your hedges are not growing as vigorously as they should be or are lacking vibrant color, it could indicate a nutrient deficiency. Regular fertilization, based on the type of hedge and its needs, can help restore vitality and promote healthy growth

Conclusion

Choosing the best fertilizer for hedges can make all the difference when it comes to growing lush, healthy hedges. After reviewing the 10 best products, we recommend Miracle-Gro Evergreen Fertilizer as the overall best choice for evergreen hedges due to its balanced formula and long-lasting effects.

For those seeking an organic option, Jobe’s Organics Fertilizer Spikes is our runner-up, offering a gentle, chemical-free solution for a variety of hedge species.

In summary, the best fertilizer for your hedges depends on the type of hedge you have, whether it’s evergreen, flowering, or a mixture of both. By selecting the right fertilizer, you can ensure your hedges thrive year-round with optimal growth and health.