In This Article we will discuss the following: When to Fertilize fruit trees, How to Measure Growth, Choosing Your Fertilizer, How Much Fertilizer to Use, and Applying the Fertilizer in your specific applications.
To produce abundant fruit, different types of fruit trees need proper nutrition. Young trees require good nutrition to grow and yield a bountiful harvest, just like vegetables, flowers, and other plants. Maximize your growing season with our helpful video, where Tricia explains when to fertilize fruit trees, how much to use, and the best apple tree fertilizer for your needs. Take note of the information below to learn the 5 easy steps for fertilizing apple trees and start producing fruit from your grafted trees sooner with our guide.

Importance of Proper Fertilization
Impact on Fruit Yield
Proper fertilization is crucial for maximizing fruit yield in fruit trees, such as apple trees and other stone fruits. Knowing when to fertilize fruit trees is essential for optimal growth and productivity. Using the right fruit tree fertilizer ensures balanced nutrients tailored to the trees' needs, contributing to steady growth and healthy fruit production. Organic options like chicken manure, compost, or fish emulsion support plant health without risking excess nitrogen, which can cause issues like fire blight or bitter pit.
For apple trees, applying the best fertilizer in early spring promotes healthy vegetative growth. Soil tests can reveal nutrient deficiencies, guiding the use of supplements like calcium sprays, potassium sulfate, or calcium nitrate to enhance fruit size and crop quality. Additionally, applying a foliar spray can deliver essential nutrients directly to the leaves, supporting plant vitality during critical growth stages.
Citrus trees and new plantings also benefit from well-timed fertilization to establish strong root systems and robust growth. Whether fertilizing apple trees, stone fruits, or citrus trees, selecting the appropriate fruit tree fertilizer ensures optimal plant health and a bountiful harvest.
Long-term Tree Health Benefits
Properly fertilizing fruit trees not only enhances current fruit production but also promotes long-term tree health benefits. By using organic options like compost or chicken manure as part of a balanced fruit tree fertilizer mix, fruit trees—whether apple trees or other fruit varieties—experience steady growth and improved nutrient uptake. This strengthens their resilience against diseases such as fire blight and disorders like bitter pit.
Understanding when to fertilize fruit trees is crucial for optimal results. Fertilizing new plantings with the best fertilizer, especially organic types, supports their early development and establishes strong root systems. Incorporating a foliar spray into the fertilization routine can provide additional nutrients directly to the leaves, boosting growth during critical stages.
Regular soil testing, including monitoring total nitrogen and soil pH, ensures that essential nutrients like calcium are maintained. This fosters robust tree growth and larger, healthier fruits over successive growing seasons. A comprehensive fruit tree fertilizer mix not only reduces issues like fruit drop but also supports the longevity and productivity of mature fruit trees, encouraging optimal fruit size and quality.
Types of Fertilizers
Slow-Release vs. Quick-Release Fertilizers
When considering the time to fertilize fruit trees, it's important to choose between slow-release and quick-release fertilizers based on your tree's needs. Quick-release fertilizers provide an immediate boost of nutrients, ideal for encouraging new growth and supporting small fruits early in the season, but they may require more frequent applications.
Slow-release options, such as Sul-Po-Mag, offer a steady nutrient supply over time, applying nitrogen gradually to support healthy growth per year without overwhelming the tree. For optimal results, apply nitrogen at the right time and ensure you're using the correct amount per cubic foot of soil.

Essential Steps for Fertilizing Your Fruit Trees for Optimal Growth
Step 1: When to Fertilize Your Fruit Trees
Fruit trees that grow give us a rewarding crop in the summer and fall, but we need to feed them. Growing fruit trees can be an extremely rewarding experience when done well. Having an Established root system will help with nutrient uptake. The best time to fertilize is in the early spring, just before bud break. You can feed throughout the summer, but it is best to stop applying any nitrogen after July.
Step 2: Measure to Decide if You Need to Fertilize
Not all fruit trees need to be fed every year, nor in the same amounts. If you feed them too much nitrogen, they will grow lots of leaves but give you very little fruit. Luckily, the tree can tell you what it needs, and when it's time to fertilize. Using organic nitrogen sources is recommended to prevent "burning".
Steps in Measuring the Previous Year's Growth
- First: Locate last year’s growth rings. The growth ring is the point on the branch where the fruit tree started growing in the previous season. The newest shoot growth that you will be measuring is often a different color than the rest of the branch.
- Second: Measure from the growth ring all the way to the end of the branch. Repeat these measurements at several spots around the fruit tree.
- Third: Calculate the average of these measurements. This is the previous season’s “annual growth” of the fruit tree.
Repeat this step for each of your fruit trees. Even if you have multiple fruit trees that are the same kind and age, they may not have grown equally. As a result, these trees may require different amounts of fertilizer.
Note–if you have pruned your fruit tree significantly more than normal, so that you’ve removed over 20% of its canopy within the last year, don’t fertilize until the next year.
Check the Chart to Evaluate Growth
Finally, use this chart to evaluate your fruit tree’s annual growth. If the fruit tree’s growth rate is at the low end or below annual target growth, then you should fertilize the fruit tree this year. If your fruit tree’s growth rate is at the high end or above the annual target growth rate, you do not need to fertilize this year (but measure again next year in case that changes!).
- Peaches and nectarines (non-bearing young fruit trees) should grow 18"-24", mature bearing trees should grow 12"-18"
- Apples and pear trees (non-bearing young fruit) should grow 18"-30", mature bearing pears and non-spur type apples should grow 12"-18"
- Bearing spur apples should grow 6"-10"
- Plums and sweet cherries (non-bearing young fruit trees) should grow 22"-36", mature bearing trees should grow 8"
- Tart cherries (non-bearing young fruit trees) should grow 12"-24", bearing mature trees should grow 8"
Step Three: Choose the Right Fertilizer
- Fruit trees prefer an organic, high nitrogen fertilizer.
- Good organic fertilizers high in nitrogen include blood meal, soybean meal, composted chicken manure, cottonseed meal, and feather meal.
- There are also specially formulated fruit tree fertilizers available.
- In addition to nitrogen, fruit trees need other macro and micronutrients.
- Adding compost when you fertilize provides organic matter and trace minerals.
- Azomite or Cascade Remineralizing Soil Boost are excellent sources of trace minerals.
- A soil test, or soil sample, can reveal calcium deficiencies or the need for additional phosphorus, potassium, and other nutrients.
- Regular soil testing helps prevent issues like weak growth.
- For best results, fertilize in early summer to support ongoing development and productivity.
Step Four: Calculate how Much Fertilizer to Use
- More is not always better when it comes to fertilizing your fruit trees. Now that you know that your fruit tree needs fertilizer and you have picked the perfect fertilizer to use, you’ll need to determine the correct amount to use on each fruit tree.
- The amount of fertilizer you should use is based on the age or size of the fruit tree, and the nitrogen-value on the package.
Determining How Much Fertilizer to Use
- Planted trees need 0.10 pounds of “actual nitrogen” per year of age or per inch of trunk diameter (measured 1 foot above the ground).
- The maximum you should give a fruit tree in a year is 1 pound of actual nitrogen.
- For example, if your fruit tree has a trunk diameter of 5 inches (or if your tree is 5 years old), multiply 5 by 0.10 pounds of nitrogen, which equals 0.5 lb. This means that the fruit tree will need 0.5 lb of actual nitrogen.
- To apply this nitrogen, consider that “actual nitrogen” pounds is not as simple as just weighing out that amount of fertilizer because there is more in a fertilizer than just nitrogen.
- The NPK numbers on fertilizer show the percentage of nutrients per pound of fertilizer, not the actual amount. N, P, and K refer to nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- For example, if the N listed on the fertilizer package is 7 (meaning 7% nitrogen), such as with E.B. Stone's Fruit Tree fertilizer, then there is 0.07 pounds of actual nitrogen for every pound of fertilizer.
- To calculate how much fertilizer to apply, divide the amount of actual nitrogen the fruit tree needs by the amount of actual nitrogen per pound in the fertilizer.
- So, using the previous example, a five-year-old apple tree needs 0.5 lb of nitrogen. The E.B. Stone Fruit Tree Fertilizer has an N-value of 7 on the package, meaning it has 0.07 lb nitrogen per pound of fertilizer. Half a pound, or 0.5 lb, divided by 0.07 lb equals 7 lbs.
- The answer—7 pounds—is the amount of this fertilizer to apply to the fruit tree.
- For other types of fruit trees like pears and peaches, similar calculations apply. Consider incorporating additional nutrients such as calcium nitrate, potash magnesia, or Sul-Po-Mag if needed, based on a soil test.
- Applying fertilizers in the fall can help support root growth and prepare the tree for the next growing season. Gardening practices should include regular adjustments based on soil conditions and previous year's performance.
Step Five: Applying the Fertilizer
- To help the fruit tree “eat” the fertilizer most efficiently, apply the fertilizer evenly. Start a foot away from the trunk and continue all the way to the “drip line.” The drip line is the perimeter of the tree’s farthest reaching branches.
- The easiest way to do this is simply by spreading the fertilizer on the ground and raking it in.
- Digging a series of small holes on the soil surface is another method of applying fertilizer. It is a bit more work, but it best ensures the fertilizer is getting to the fruit tree roots, especially when using a fertilizer containing less-soluble nutrients like phosphorus and mycorrhizae.
- Dig the holes six inches down and 12” to 18” apart, throughout the same area as you would have spread the fertilizer. To make the digging job easy, you can use an auger attachment with a cordless drill. Sprinkle a little bit of fertilizer in each hole until it is used up.
- Once you have finished fertilizing, spread an inch-deep layer of compost around the fruit tree and water well.
- Soil ph needs to be maintained so that the tree can "uptake" certain nutrients.

Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing when to fertilize fruit trees is essential for promoting healthy growth and maximizing fruit production. The best time to fertilize is in early spring, just before bud break, as this supports strong vegetative growth without causing excessive vegetative growth, which can hinder fruiting. For young apple trees and pear trees, proper fertilization at the right time helps establish a solid foundation for future yields. Regular soil testing is also crucial to monitor soil pH and ensure the trees are receiving the right nutrients. By timing your fertilization correctly, you can ensure your fruit trees thrive and produce a bountiful harvest.
To get started with high-quality fruit and nut trees, visit Grow Organic for a wide selection of fruit and nut trees for sale.

FAQs About How to Best Fertilize Your Fruit Trees for a Big Harvest
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What is the importance of fertilizing fruit trees?
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Fertilizing fruit trees is crucial for promoting healthy growth and maximizing fruit production. Using a balanced best fruit tree fertilizer, you can support root, branch, and flower development. Nutrients like phosphate, potassium, and nitrogen are vital for photosynthesis, which powers the tree's overall health and productivity. Regular fertilization helps prevent disease problems like fire blight and supports new growth.
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How often should I fertilize my fruit trees?
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Fruit trees benefit from fertilization once or twice a year. Early spring, at the beginning of the growth cycle, is an ideal time to apply fertilizers, with another application in June for sustained nourishment. Be sure to tailor the schedule to the tree's age, soil conditions, and needs. A split application, such as applying one ounce of fertilizer per tree in early spring and again in mid-summer, helps maintain a steady nutrient supply throughout the growing season.
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What are the best fertilizers for fruit trees?
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Organic fertilizers like compost, chicken manure, and fish emulsion are great sources of slow-release nutrients. The best organic fruit tree fertilizer options provide a steady supply of nutrients. Balanced fertilizers containing total nitrogen, potassium, and magnesium are also excellent. Additionally, potash magnesia is a great option to address potassium deficiencies. For trees showing a deficiency in nitrogen, ammonium sulfate can be a good choice to boost growth.
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How can I prevent nutrient deficiencies in fruit trees?
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Regular soil testing is essential to identify and correct deficiencies in key nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and calcium. Using targeted fertilizers, like calcium nitrate or phosphate-rich fertilizers, helps trees absorb essential nutrients effectively. If you see weak growth or poor fruit production, applying additional fertilizer or adjusting your soil pH with lime can help.
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When should I fertilize apple trees?
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Apple trees should be fertilized in early spring, just before bud break, and again in late summer. Apply the fertilizer around the trunk and out to the drip line, typically one foot from the base per year of the tree's age. Ensure the surface of the soil is free from weeds, and water the fertilizer thoroughly into the ground. If you're planting young apple trees, be sure to place the fertilizer in the planting hole to encourage strong root development.
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Can I fertilize citrus trees the same way as other fruit trees?
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Citrus trees have specific nutrient needs, often requiring additional potassium and micronutrients like iron. Fertilizing them in early spring and June with a well-balanced fruit tree fertilizer mix ensures steady growth. Avoid applying fertilizers directly near the trunk to prevent root damage, as well as disease problems like fire blight.
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What role does mulching play in fruit tree care?
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Mulching retains soil moisture, regulates temperature, and suppresses weeds. As it decomposes, mulch adds organic matter to the soil, enriching the tree's environment and supporting root development. Ensure the mulch doesn't touch the trunk to avoid fungal issues, which could lead to disease problems.
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Is a 16-16-16 fertilizer good for fruit trees?
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Yes, a 16-16-16 fertilizer provides a balanced solution of total nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making it suitable for many fruit trees. However, it's essential to pair it with organic material, like compost or a slow-release fruit tree fertilizer, to create a nutrient-dense mix that addresses all the tree's needs. Ammonium sulfate can also be added if nitrogen levels are low.
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What should I do if my fruit trees show weak growth or poor fruit production?
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Weak growth or poor fruit production may indicate nutrient imbalances or poor soil health. Test the soil to identify deficiencies and address them with a targeted fertilizer or micronutrient solution. Pruning, weed control, and adding mulch can also support recovery. Applying additional fertilizer, such as one pound of nitrogen per tree in late summer, may help correct nutrient shortages.
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How does fertilization impact fruit size and quality?
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Proper fertilization ensures fruit trees can produce large, high-quality fruits. Nutrients like potassium, calcium, and phosphate strengthen the tree and enhance fruit flavor, size, and texture. A steady nutrient supply from organic or slow-release fruit tree fertilizer is critical for maintaining tree health over the growing season, which can result in lush and large fruits.
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What are some tips for applying fruit tree fertilizers?
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Use a fertilizer bag labeled for fruit trees with clear instructions. Spread fertilizer evenly over the soil's surface, starting 1–2 feet from the trunk and extending to the drip line. Water deeply immediately after application to help the tree absorb nutrients. For young apple trees and older trees, a split application of one ounce of fertilizer per tree can help achieve the best growth results.
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When should I fertilize newly planted fruit trees?
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For new plantings, use an organic starter fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus to encourage root establishment. Apply in early spring at the beginning of the growing season and water thoroughly. Make sure the fertilizer is evenly distributed in the planting hole to support early growth.
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Can fruit trees grow in acidic soils?
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Fruit trees prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Acidic soils can hinder nutrient uptake, particularly of calcium and magnesium. Applying lime can balance the pH, making nutrients more available to the tree, helping to prevent disease problems and supporting long-term growth.
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How does garden maintenance impact tree health?
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Regular garden maintenance, including pruning, weed control, and mulching, creates a supportive environment for fruit trees. Proper care ensures they remain healthy and productive for years, delivering bountiful harvests. Using high-quality fertilizers, like those containing potash magnesia or organic material, further supports their growth and fruit production.
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Resources
- For more information on all aspects of fertilizing apple and fruit trees—From selecting and planting a bare root, pruning, controlling pests, and even how to preserve your harvest—browse our videos and articles in Fruit Tree Central. Some staff-favorite books on fruit trees are The Home Orchard from UC Davis, along with The Fruit Gardener's Bible.
- Keep on living the dream with your organic orchard, now that you know when and how to fertilize your fruit trees.
79 comments
Katheline, for your galls, it is best to take a sample to a local nursery for diagnosis. The peach leaf curl should be treated in the dormant season, typically 3 sprays (after leaf drop, at new years and again around valentines day, or before blossom opening). You can use any good fruit tree fertilizer to fertilize your trees. Might be late this year to fertilizer, unless the fertilizer has low to no nitrogen. You just don’t want to stimulate a bunch of new growth that may not be hardened off before winter.
John, figs typically do not need much supplemental fertilizers. Sounds like you are giving them too much nitrogen. I would work in some compost and wait to fertilize again until next year. When you do give them a fertilizer with more phosphorus than nitrogen.
I have a number of potted fig trees. Some years we get a nice amount of figs and some years they don’t produce much (if any). I used a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer (which had been recommended for figs) in the spring along with some processed manure from a garden supply about a month later. The figs that were there 2 months ago haven’t really grown much but there is so much new growth in leaves. Can you tell what might be going wrong? Thanks.
Purchased a home that has couple fruit trees ,about 5 years old ,Never had had fruit on any of them ,the peach tree had some weird green balls on it plus leaf curl ,just wanting to know what would be the best fertilizer for all of them and best spray to use ,heard Neptune’s Harvest is good ..just would like information on how to help these trees ,we live Southeastern Michigan .Thank you .
Matthew, not sure what you mean by semi-organic. If a product has a stated NPK on the package, that means it is a guaranteed analysis. Whether or not it is certified organic, if it is it will have the certifying agency logo on the product package and the product description page. Logos like OMRI or CDFA are logos to look for.