Fertilizers and pesticides provide nutrients to our lawns and gardens and protect them from pests. However, if you misuse or overuse these products, their nutrients and chemicals are left in the soil. These excess pesticides and fertilizers can leach into groundwater systems or wash into local streams, polluting waterways. This can result in algae blooms and lower water oxygen levels which can be harmful to wildlife and public health.
Fertilizer Tips
- Test your soil to determine its characteristics and nutrient needs. Your local Cooperative Extension Service offers free soil testing for county residents.
- Choose products with appropriate proportions of nutrients according to the soil test results.
- Choose slow-release fertilizers to minimize chemical loss through the soil and promote steady uptake by plants.
- Consider specific plant growth cycles when timing fertilizer applications to provide optimal benefit.
- Recycle lawn clippings to nourish your lawn and cut down on excess nitrogen use.
- Plant native grasses and plants that are well adapted to the local environment and do not require supplemental nutrients.
Pesticide Tips
- Utilize free plant disease diagnostic services provided by your local Cooperative Extension Service to identify pests and choose the appropriate control.
- Follow the pesticide label. Do not over-apply and only treat the affected part of the plant.
- Research to determine if applying the product will be more effective in the morning, evening or during a specific time in the pest life cycle.
- Inspect for pests often. Catching a problem early reduces pesticide needs and prevents storage and disposal problems.
- Use non-toxic controls when possible. Protect your garden with insect barriers such as row covers instead of using pesticides.