Italian Cypress trees are slow-growing evergreen trees with distinctive, dark green needles. They are native to Persia, but also grow well in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 10. The Italian Cypress tree has a long history of being used as an ornamental tree in gardens.
Italian cypress trees need a couple of nutrients to thrive; these nutrients are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, alongside micronutrients like boron, zinc, iron, magnesium, and calcium. These nutrients are essential for the tree’s healthy growth and development. The nutrients are obtained from different sources called fertilizers.
The slow-release fertilizers and NPK fertilizers are the recommended types of fertilizers that can be applied to Italian Cypress trees; however, it is important to understand how these fertilizers work before deciding which to buy and which not to buy. The knowledge of how fertilizer works would help you know which fertilizer is best for the Italian cypress tree and when to apply it.
1. Slow-release fertilizer
Slow-release fertilizer is one of the best choices for the Italian Cypress. These fertilizer types release nutrients slowly into the soil over a long period. The frequency of usage of this slow-release fertilizer is usually low, about twice a year, because of its longevity in the soil. Examples of slow-release fertilizers for Italian cypress are:
- Compost
- Blood meal
- Bone meal
- Vermicompost
- Poultry or Cow manure
One of the benefits of applying a slow-release fertilizer to Italian Cypress trees is that these fertilizers won’t overwhelm the tree and will provide nutrition gradually over time. It enhances a lush and healthy landscape. Slow-release fertilizers are applied as top dressing or band placement.
These slow-release fertilizers are incorporated into the soil before planting, during land preparation. Alternatively, the fertilizers can also be applied near the root zone of the Italian cypress tree. After application, it is covered with the topsoil. It is advisable to water Italian cypress trees weekly, starting when they go into their growth spurt, and during the fall, before the trees go dormant. This helps to activate the fertilizer for nutrient release.
Note: Do not apply fresh animal manure to Italian cypress. Fresh animal manure is highly acidic and can burn the Italian cypress roots and other parts.
2. NPK Fertilizers
The NPK fertilizers are specially formulated fertilizers that contain Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium in different proportions to meet the nutrient requirement of Italian cypress trees and correct nutrient deficiencies like yellowing of the leaves. NPK fertilizers are rapid in action and do not last long in the soil like slow-release fertilizers do. NPK fertilizers are available in different formulations depending on the needs of the plant
A balanced NPK fertilizer that contains equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, like 10:10:10 or 15:15:15, is best for the Italian cypress trees during the vegetative growth stage. These NPK fertilizers are best applied in a ring formed around the Italian cypress trees. The fertilizer granules are poured into the ring before covering it with the topsoil.
The difference between the NPK fertilizers and slow-release fertilizers is the mode of action. NPK fertilizer gives an instant response to the nutritional needs of Italian cypress trees; they are fast-releasing and do not stay in the soil for a longer period like slow-release fertilizers. Top NPK fertilizers for Italian cypress trees are:
- Gardenwise 10-10-10 All Purpose Slow Release Fertilizer
- Yamamoto’s Organic Concentrated Bonsai Fertilizer
- Brighter Blooms Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer
1. Gardenwise 10-10-10 All Purpose Slow-Release Fertilizer
The Gardenwise 10-10-10 Plant Slow-release Fertilizer is a versatile granular garden fertilizer suitable for tree plants, fruit trees, evergreens, vegetables, shrubs, flowers, and more. This fertilizer contains an equal proportion of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, alongside micronutrients required to facilitate rapid foliage growth, strong root development, and vibrant foliage.
The Gardenwise 10-10-10 All Purpose Slow-Release Fertilizer is ideal for Italian cypress trees, spruce trees, hollies, and other tree crops; this fertilizer is made from natural ingredients that make regular application safe for the plants. Interestingly, this fertilizer is slow-release, meaning it can feed the plants consistently for up to 2 months. Gardenwise 10-10-10 All Purpose Slow Release Fertilizer is a must-have for every tree lover.
Characteristics:
– Balanced 10-10-10 Granular Fertilizer for Outdoor & Indoor Plants
– Slow-Release Formula for Continuous Outdoor Feeding
– Promotes Strong Roots, Lush Growth, and Vibrant Outdoor Blooms
– Easy-to-Apply Granules for Even Outdoor Coverage
– Quick-Release Nitrogen for Immediate Outdoor Results
Formulation Details:
– Contains 10% Nitrogen, 10% Phosphorus, and 10% Potassium
– Provides up to 8 weeks of sustained nutrition
– Supports root health, lush green leaves, and plant resilience
– Fine granules for maximum soil absorption
– Instant nitrogen boost for rapid growth
Additional Information:
- Date First Available: October 8, 2023
– Manufacturer: Summit Sales Company LLC
– Country of Origin: USA
Customer Feedback:
– Customers are satisfied with the fertilizer’s effectiveness, quality, and appearance
– Easy to use and apply directly to the soil around plants
– Plants flourish and grow healthy after using the fertilizer
– Some customers feel the price is too high for the small bag
Application Guide
Target Plants: Typically formulated for tree plants, fruit trees, evergreens, vegetables, shrubs, flowers, and more.
Application Forms: Available in granules.
Application Rate: 1 pound per 100 square feet.
How to Apply: Evenly spread the Gardenwise 10-10-10 around the base of the tree and slightly work the fertilizer into the soil. Water the tree immediately after application.
When to Apply: The Gardenwise professional 10-10-10 fertilizer is best applied during spring and fall. It can also be applied as needed. Apply every two weeks during the growing season.
2. Yamamoto’s Organic Concentrated Bonsai Fertilizer
Yamamoto’s Organic Concentrated Bonsai Fertilizer is Japan’s favorite choice for nurturing bonsai trees. This fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at a ratio of 2.7-3-2.2, alongside micronutrients like zinc, boron, magnesium, and calcium, to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage. The Yamamoto’s Organic Bonsai Fertilizer is made from natural ingredients; it is safe for regular use as it does not contain any harsh chemicals.
Characteristics:
– Imported from Japan
– Best-selling organic bonsai fertilizer
- Does not contain harsh chemical fertilizers
– Contains slow and fast-release nitrogen
– Contains major and micro nutrients for bonsai plants
– Derived from fish and rice mash
– No unpleasant smell
– Concentrated formula
– Award-winning formulation
Formulation Details:
– Nitrogen: 2.7%
– Phosphorus: 3%
– Potassium: 2.2%
– Just add 1 tablespoon per quart of water
– Use every second watering
Additional Information:
– Manufacturer: Yamamoto’s
– Date First Available: March 21, 2021
Customer Feedback:
– Customers find the fertilizer effective for bonsai trees
– Reports of improved growth after using the fertilizer
Application Guide
Target Plants: Yamamoto’s Organic Bonsai Fertilizer is specifically designed for tree plants, including Italian cypress, spruce trees, hollies, and other tree plants.
Application Forms: It is available in liquid form.
Application Rate: 1 tablespoon per quart of water.
How to Apply: Mix 1 tablespoon of Yamamoto’s Organic Bonsai Fertilizer per quart of water. Apply to the tree plant using the irrigation drip line or garden sprayer.
When to Apply: Apply Yamamoto’s Organic Bonsai Fertilizer during spring when the trees are actively growing.
3. Brighter Blooms Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer
Brighter Blooms Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer is a specialized plant fertilizer designed to hasten active growth and rapid root development in transplanted seedlings. Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer is ideal for various tree plants, including Italian cypress, clusia hedge, ornamental plants, flowering plants, and other plants raised from the nursery.
Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer is made from natural ingredients, including ecto and endomycorrhizae fungi, water-soluble sea kelp, soluble humic acid, yucca plant extract, and other beneficial soil microorganisms, making it safe to apply at any time without the fear of burning the plant roots. This fertilizer contains essential nutrients required for rapid vegetative growth and strong root development of young plants.
Characteristics:
– Special mix of nutrients for young plants
– Helps plants transition from nursery containers to the ground
– Provides solutions for a variety of garden needs
– Suitable for gardeners of all levels
– Cannot be shipped to AK, AZ, HI, OR due to federal restrictions
Formulation Details:
– Date First Available: October 4, 2022
- Manufacturer: Brighter Blooms
– Country of Origin: USA
Additional Information:
– Customers find the fertilizer effective for tree health
– Specifically helps palm trees thrive and stay strong after transplanting
Application Guide
Target Plants: The Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer is typically formulated for young transplanted plants after being raised in the nursery. Italian cypress tree, clusia hedge, laurel hedge, and hollies can greatly benefit from this fertilizer after transplanting.
Application Forms: Available in granules.
How to Apply: Evenly sprinkle Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer around the root zone of the plant and water immediately after application.
When to Apply: Apply the Root Rocket Transplant Fertilizer any time throughout the growing season of the plant.
Conclusion
Fertilizing Italian cypress trees is an ideal way to ensure the trees grow well and produce the desired lush appearance. NPK fertilizers are good for quick release of nutrients, They are applied when the Italian cypress tree is showing deficiency symptoms. The slow-release fertilizers are great for long-term feeding of the Italian cypress trees; they release nutrients slowly and improve the soil conditions, and make the overall growing conditions perfect for the tree.
The best time to fertilize Italian cypress trees is during early spring when the tree is actively growing, depending on your climate. Fertilize your trees every six months when using a slow-release fertilizer for optimum health. Watering after fertilizer application is an important practice; however, it is important to keep in mind that Italian cypress trees are sensitive to overwatering. It may appear rusty or brownish foliage, but this is caused by the soil being too waterlogged. Soil should be amended to increase drainage. Mulch the soil well to keep out weeds and other plants.