Florida-Friendly Fertilizing

Healthy Lawns, Healthy Water

Sometimes Florida yards need fertilizer to help keep them healthy, but applying too much fertilizer, too often or at the wrong time can cause water pollution.

Recent studies have shown that rising nitrate levels in many local water bodies can be traced to fertilizer. Nitrate is a form of nitrogen that is found in inorganic fertilizers. When fertilizer is needed and applied correctly, the lawn absorbs the nitrogen. However, fertilizers applied improperly can run off lawns and into local water bodies, harming water quality and threatening the plants and animals that depend on clean water for survival.

You can help protect water quality while having a beautiful lawn. Learn more with steps 1–5 or by ordering our free Do-It-Yourself Guide to Florida-Friendly Fertilizing.

Fertilizer applications vary depending on grass species, your location in the state and your desired level of lawn care. For more detailed information, visit University of Florida/IFAS.

 

Join the community effort to protect water quality by following these easy Florida-friendly fertilizing tips:

Step 1: Getting Ready to Fertilize »

Step 2: Determining How Much to Buy »

Step 3: Selecting Fertilizer »

Step 4: Applying Fertilizer »

Step 5: Maintaining a Healthy Lawn »

 

View Florida-Friendly Fertilizing How-To Videos Here »