Tree & Shrub 4-2-4 Fertilizer 5lb
Best organic fertilizer for gardeners transplanting new trees and shrubs.
Support your trees and shrubs through the critical transplanting phase with Down to Earth's 4-2-4 Fertilizer. This granular, organic blend is specifically formulated to promote robust root establishment and resilience against common stresses like transplant shock and drought. Enriched with beneficial mycorrhizal fungi and microbes, it encourages faster growth and healthier long-term development for your woody plants. Ideal for bare root, ball-and-burlap, and container-grown specimens, this 5lb box provides essential nutrients for a strong start and sustained vitality.
$19.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
50
/ 4425
#50 in Fertilizers
Price vs Category Average
-68%
Below average
NPK Ratio
424
/ --
Who it's for
- Organic enthusiasts aiming to boost soil microbial activity
- Eco-conscious gardeners prioritizing pet safety and soil health
- Patient growers seeking long-term root strength over rapid growth
Who should skip it
- Sensitive homeowners bothered by earthy, natural fertilizer scents
- Gardeners needing immediate visual plant recovery
- Budget-focused shoppers comparing price per nutrient unit
Performance breakdown
Root establishment efficacy
Mycorrhizal fungi integration provides a superior foundation for new woody plantings.
Transplant shock mitigation
Specialized formula significantly reduces stress during the critical initial growth phase.
Nutrient release profile
Slow-release organic ingredients ensure steady, long-term feeding for established shrubs.
Application versatility
Granular texture works seamlessly for bare root, container, and field specimens.
Biological soil enrichment
Active microbes improve soil health beyond simple NPK nutrient delivery.
Ingredient quality
Premium organic components offer a clean, sustainable approach to plant nutrition.
Key Specs
NPK Ratio
4-2-4
Package Weight
5 lb
Fertilizer Form
Granular
Fertilizer Type
Organic
Release Type
Slow Release
Nitrogen Percentage
4%
Phosphorus Percentage
2%
Potassium Percentage
4%
Features
- Ideal for transplanting trees and shrubs
- Promotes extensive root development
- Enriched with mycorrhizal fungi
- Protects against transplant shock
- Supports faster, healthier growth
- Contains beneficial microbes
- Organic and granular formula
- Slow-release nutrients
What customers say
Customers consistently praise this Down to Earth fertilizer for its exceptional quality and the visible, reliable results it delivers to trees and shrubs. The primary sentiment revolves around the product's organic composition, which users feel justifies the price point, offering excellent value for money compared to synthetic alternatives. Gardeners appreciate the ease of application and note significant improvements in plant vigor, color, and overall health shortly after use. This fertilizer is widely regarded as a trustworthy, high performance choice for sustainable gardening practices.
Know before you buy
While specifically formulated to help new transplants overcome shock, this 4-2-4 blend is also an excellent maintenance fertilizer for established trees and shrubs. Its slow-release nutrients provide consistent feeding throughout the growing season.
Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, effectively extending the root system's reach. This helps your trees and shrubs absorb more water and nutrients from the soil, which is particularly helpful during the stressful transplanting phase.
Yes, this organic granular formula is designed for a wide range of woody plants, including bare root, ball-and-burlap, and container-grown specimens. It provides a balanced nutrient profile suitable for most trees and shrubs.
You can apply this fertilizer during the spring, summer, and fall. Because it is a slow-release formula, it does not need to be applied as frequently as synthetic quick-release fertilizers, making it a low-maintenance choice for your landscape.
For the best results, you should incorporate the granules into the soil at the bottom of the planting hole or mix them into the backfill soil when transplanting. This ensures the nutrients and beneficial microbes are in direct contact with the root zone.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$20