What are the best tree and shrub fertilizers in North Carolina?

Natural fertilizers always are best for shrubs and trees in North Carolina and elsewhere.

Specifically, compost is a natural fertilizer. It is effective because it releases natural nutrient ingredients slowly but directly and steadily into the soil. It is reasonably priced because it can be homemade from recyclable materials that break down anaerobically into their constituent elements, which also happen to serve as plant and soil nutrients.