Guaranteed Analysis
Nutrient Breakdown
N · Nitrogen4%
4.0% Total Nitrogen — provides slow-release organic nitrogen from dehydrated poultry litter for sustained feeding of woody plants and perennials without stimulating excessive soft growth vulnerable to pests and frost.
P · Phosphorus3%
3.0% Available Phosphate (P2O5) — supports root establishment and development in newly planted trees and shrubs, and promotes flower bud formation in perennial plantings.
K · Potassium3%
3.0% Soluble Potash (K2O) — strengthens cell walls, improves winter hardiness, and enhances overall plant resilience against drought, wind, and disease stress.
Derived from: Dehydrated, pasteurized poultry litter. Single-ingredient organic fertilizer. Also provides: Calcium (Ca) 3.0%, Sulfur (S) 0.76%, Magnesium (Mg) 0.50%, Iron (Fe) 0.13%, Copper (Cu) 0.07%, Zinc (Zn) 0.07%, Manganese (Mn) 0.07%. Contains 60% Organic Matter and 10% Humus.
Overview
What It Is
Wicked Organics 4-3-3 is a complete, all-natural, biologically active organic fertilizer providing essential primary plant nutrients in a natural, slow-release form for healthier plants with less leaching. Made from a single ingredient — dehydrated, pasteurized poultry litter — it delivers an excellent balance of primary nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) along with important secondary nutrients and trace elements present as organic complexes or in less water-soluble slow-release forms.
The typical analysis extends well beyond NPK: Calcium 3.0%, Sulfur 0.76%, Magnesium 0.50%, Iron 0.13%, Copper 0.07%, Zinc 0.07%, Manganese 0.07%, plus 10% Humus and 60% Organic Matter at a pH of approximately 6.5. This rich micronutrient profile sets it apart from fertilizers that deliver only N-P-K without the secondary nutrients and trace elements that trees, shrubs, and perennials need for long-term health.
25 lbs of 4-3-3 provides 1 lb of nitrogen, ¾ lb of phosphate, and ¾ lb of potash — a practical reference for calculating application needs across any scale.
Crop Fit
Best For
Shade TreesOrnamental TreesDeciduous ShrubsEvergreen ShrubsPerennial FlowersHedgesLawnsLandscape Beds
Trees and shrubs benefit from the slow-release nitrogen that supports steady growth without triggering excessive soft tissue vulnerable to pests and cold damage. The 60% organic matter content builds soil health in the root zone over time, improving water retention and microbial activity that long-lived woody plants depend on. Perennial flowers receive balanced nutrition for strong crown development and reliable return each spring. Lawns develop thick, invasive root systems and healthy soils that naturally crowd out weeds. Landscape beds maintain vibrant growth season after season. This fertilizer will not burn, even if over-applied — a significant advantage for applications around established trees and sensitive perennials.
Application Rates
How Much to Use
| Garden & beds | 15-20 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for perennials, legume vegetables, or herbs; 25-30 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for vegetables and annual flowers |
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| Lawn | 25 lbs per 1,000 sq ft; 2-4 applications per growing season |
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| Trees & shrubs | Apply around drip line — rate varies by tree size. For new establishment, 25 lbs per 1,000 sq ft incorporated into top 2 inches of soil. |
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| Containers | 2-3 tbsp per gallon of soil |
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| Frequency | 2-4 applications per growing season depending on plant type, season length, and expectations |
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Step by Step
How to Apply
1Calculate Area
Calculate area to be treated in square feet for accurate rate calculation.
2Perennial / Herb Rate
For perennials and herbs, apply 15–20 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for gentle, sustained feeding.
3Veggie / Annual Rate
For vegetables and annual flowers, apply 25–30 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for heavier feeding demands.
4Lawn Rate
For lawns, spread 25 lbs per 1,000 sq ft evenly with a broadcast spreader.
5Tree / Shrub Application
Broadcast around trees and shrubs from trunk to beyond the drip line where feeder roots extend.
6Water In
Water in after application or allow next rainfall to activate organic nutrient release.
7Aeration Note
If thatch is evident on lawns, aerate prior to application for better nutrient penetration.
For garden beds, apply 25-30 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for vegetables and annual flowers, or 15-20 lbs per 1,000 sq ft for perennials, legume vegetables, or herbs. Broadcast evenly and incorporate into the top 2 inches if possible. For established lawns and cool-season grasses, spread 25 lbs per 1,000 sq ft evenly, 2-4 applications per growing season depending on season length, clipping management, and expectations. For turf establishment on bare earth, spread 25 lbs per 1,000 sq ft and incorporate into the top 2 inches; add ¼-½ inch mature compost if poor soil conditions exist. This fertilizer may be spread on non-irrigated areas to await next rainfall — a particular advantage for large areas such as parks or playing fields.
Handling & Timing
Safety & Season
Safety & Storage
Store in a dry environment. Natural product with no known hazards. Contains no chemical additives or binders. This fertilizer will not burn, even if over-applied. Safe for the environment when used at recommended rates. Wear gloves if skin sensitivities appear. Wash hands after use.
Seasonal Notes
Spring: Apply when growth resumes for lawns, trees, and perennials. Ideal first application of the season. Summer: Continue applications every 4-8 weeks during active growth. Fall: Apply for root development and winter hardiness — fall applications are particularly effective for perennial plants whose root systems are most active after a season of photosynthesis. Winter: Do not apply to frozen ground.
In Context
How It Compares
Compared to the 5-3-4 Pro-Gro formula, the 4-3-3 provides slightly less nitrogen and uses a single-ingredient source (poultry litter) rather than a multi-ingredient blend, making it more cost-effective for large-area applications like parks, sports fields, and extensive landscape beds. The 60% organic matter content is significantly higher than most organic fertilizers, building soil health faster. Versus the 2-3-3 starter formula, the 4-3-3 delivers twice the nitrogen — better suited for established plantings rather than transplants.
Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is organic 4-3-3 fertilizer for trees and shrubs?
Organic 4-3-3 is a balanced, slow-release fertilizer specifically designed for trees, shrubs, and perennial plants. The moderate nitrogen (4%) supports steady canopy growth without overstimulating weak, leggy branches. Phosphorus (3%) maintains healthy root systems, and potassium (3%) enhances disease resistance and winter hardiness. The organic ingredients feed soil microbes, building long-term soil health around the root zone. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics 4-3-3 Fertilizer is ideal for organic landscaping, ornamental plantings, and perennial gardens where sustained, gentle nutrition is preferred.
When should I fertilize trees and shrubs organically?
Apply organic 4-3-3 fertilizer in early spring before bud break and optionally in early fall to support root growth before dormancy. Because organic fertilizers release nutrients slowly, applying 2–4 weeks before the tree's peak growth period gives soil microbes time to break down the ingredients and make nutrients available. For newly planted trees and shrubs, wait until the second growing season to begin fertilizing. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics 4-3-3 Fertilizer provides gentle, sustained nutrition that aligns with the natural growth rhythms of woody plants.
How much organic fertilizer for shrubs and perennials?
For shrubs, apply ½–1 cup of organic 4-3-3 per small shrub and 1–3 cups for large established specimens, spreading around the drip line. For perennials, use 1–2 tablespoons per plant or 3–5 pounds per 100 square feet of bed area. For trees, apply 1–2 pounds per inch of trunk diameter. Work the fertilizer into the top few inches of soil and water thoroughly. Reapply in mid-season if plants show signs of nutrient need. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics 4-3-3 Fertilizer delivers effective organic nutrition at practical, easy-to-measure rates.
Can I use organic 4-3-3 on all types of trees?
Yes, organic 4-3-3 works well on deciduous trees, evergreen trees, flowering trees, fruit trees, and ornamental trees. The balanced nutrient profile supports healthy growth across all tree types, and the organic ingredients improve the soil biology around the root zone for better long-term tree health. For acid-loving trees like dogwoods and magnolias, pair with an organic soil acidifier if needed. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics 4-3-3 Fertilizer is a versatile organic option for shade trees, ornamental trees, hedges, foundation plantings, and mixed perennial beds.
What is the difference between organic and synthetic tree fertilizer?
Organic tree fertilizer (like 4-3-3) releases nutrients slowly as soil organisms break down natural ingredients, feeding the tree gradually while improving soil structure and biology. Synthetic tree fertilizer provides nutrients immediately in plant-available form for faster response but does not build soil health. Organic fertilizers reduce the risk of root burn and nutrient leaching, making them safer for trees with sensitive root systems. The trade-off is slower initial response time. Old Cobblers Farm™ offers both organic (Wicked Organics 4-3-3) and conventional (Wicked Growth Shade Trees) options to match your preferences.
Is organic 4-3-3 safe for newly planted trees?
Organic 4-3-3 is safer for newly planted trees than synthetic fertilizers because the slow-release nutrients are less likely to burn tender new roots. However, it is still best to wait until the second growing season before fertilizing most newly planted trees and shrubs. In the first year, focus on proper watering and mulching to encourage root establishment. When you begin feeding in year two, organic 4-3-3 provides gentle nutrition that supports healthy growth without stress. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics 4-3-3 Fertilizer is gentle enough for young trees when applied at recommended rates.
Does organic tree fertilizer improve soil health?
Yes, organic fertilizers significantly improve soil health over time. As soil microbes break down the organic ingredients, they create humus — a stable form of organic matter that improves soil structure, water retention, drainage, and nutrient-holding capacity. The microbial activity itself makes existing soil nutrients more available to plants. Over seasons of organic fertilization, soil becomes darker, more crumbly, and more biologically active. This is one of the key advantages of organic over synthetic fertilization. Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Organics 4-3-3 Fertilizer feeds both your trees and the living soil ecosystem they depend on.
