Each type of plant requires a fertilizer that works best for it - for example, there are special fertilizers for fruit trees, fertilizers for roses, fertilizers for lawn. Learn how to apply your fertilizer in our review of the best commercial fertilizer spreaders. Using the correct type of fertilizer is vital for the health of your palm tree. If you use a formula that is not suitable for your particular tree, you risk damaging its roots irreparably. A slow release formula that is especially designed for tropical trees generally works well for the majority of palms and it will provide you our tree with all the nutrients and nitrogen it needs to thrive.