As more than 1,000 people move to Florida each day, it’s more important than ever to protect the natural resources that make our state so special. One small action – how you fertilize your lawn – can have a big impact on water quality in your neighborhood and beyond.
That’s why the Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) launched Fertilizing 101, a seasonal campaign based on UF/IFAS fertilizing best practices. It’s designed to help homeowners and community leaders fertilize smarter and more responsibly. Whether you're new to Florida or have lived here for years, it’s time to rethink how, when and why you fertilize.
Why Fertilizer Education Matters
Fertilizer might make your lawn look green, but when it’s not applied correctly, it can do more harm than good. Runoff from lawns during heavy rains can carry nitrogen and phosphorus into our storm drains and waterways. These nutrients feed algae blooms and reduce water clarity, which threatens fish and wildlife that rely on clean, oxygen-rich water.
What happens in your front yard can impact our springs, rivers, lakes and estuaries. The good news? A few simple changes to how and when you fertilize can help keep our water safe and your lawn healthy.
Know Your Local Rules
Not all counties or municipalities in Florida allow fertilizing year-round. In fact, many areas in the District have seasonal fertilizer restrictions – especially during the rainy season. There are no bans in April or May throughout the District, and counties like Citrus and Hernando ban fertilizing as late as March.
💡 Pro tip: Before applying any fertilizer, check with your local county or municipal government to see if your area has an ordinance or blackout period. You can also visit WaterMatters.org/Fertilizing101 for guidance.
When Is the Best Time to Fertilize?
If you choose to fertilize, April and May are typically good months to do so – before the summer rains.
But timing isn’t the only thing that matters. Here are four quick tips to make sure you’re fertilizing the Florida-friendly way:
Never Fertilize Before a Heavy Rain
More fertilizer isn’t better – and neither is more rain. If you fertilize before a storm, nutrients can get washed away before your lawn gets to absorb them. That’s not just a waste of fertilizer, money and effort, it’s also a threat to local water quality.
Always check the weather forecast before fertilizing. If a downpour is expected, hold off.
Use a Slow- or Controlled- Release Fertilizer
Look for fertilizers labeled as “slow-release” or “controlled-release.” These formulas feed your lawn gradually, reduce nutrient loss and are less likely to wash away by rain. Many slow-release products can nourish your landscape for 60 days or more.
Water Wisely
After applying fertilizer, you only need to water your lawn with ¼ inch of water to help it absorb nutrients. Don’t overdo it – more water doesn’t mean more benefit.
Using reclaimed water? If so, you may not need to fertilize as much. Reclaimed water already contains nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. Check with your utility to learn more about what’s in your irrigation water.
Test Your Soil First
Before you buy that bag of fertilizer, consider doing a soil test. It’s the best way to understand what nutrients your lawn really needs – and how much.
Soil testing can help you avoid costly mistakes that don’t benefit your landscape and harm local water bodies. Contact your county’s Extension office to get started.
Let’s Clear Up Some Common Myths
According to a 2024 survey conducted by the District, many residents are unsure about fertilizing restrictions and best practices:
- 60% weren’t sure if they lived in an area with a fertilizer ordinance.
- Only 26% correctly knew not to fertilize before a heavy rain.
- 42% weren’t sure if slow-release fertilizers were better for the environment.
That’s why Fertilizing 101 is here – to provide simple, science-backed tips that make a real difference.
Learn More and Join the Movement
Protecting Florida’s water resources starts with you. Whether you manage a home landscape or oversee a community, smart fertilizing practices help ensure that future generations can enjoy our springs, rivers and coastal waters.
📍 Visit WaterMatters.org/Fertilizing101 to explore helpful resources, videos and local ordinances.