Slow-release fertilizers (SRF) are under development worldwide, and are characterized as intelligent fertilizers, with a high degree of technology employed, capable of releasing nutrients over time to the plant. It reduces the loss of fertilizer by leaching and volatization, increasing the absorption efficiency of the plant. Its use in agriculture has shown satisfactory gains in productivity, with the possibility of containing input and labor costs. Due to the advantages of its use, this review aims to clarify the classification of these fertilizers and to understand the dynamics of their use in the forest sector. The use of SRF for seedling production in the forestry sector is already consolidated, enabling greater growth of plants in nursery. The use of SRF in forest plantations is still incipient, due to the lack and low supply of fertilizers with compatible formulations for forest species. However, there are already some studies in the literature with preliminary results, with an increase in initial growth and economy of inputs. Thus, we believe that the use of this fertilizer technology can lead to improved crop quality and increased productivity, as well as minimizing environmental impacts.