Blackout Dates for Lawn Fertilizer Applications Begin November 16

ANNAPOLIS, MD ( November 7, 2024 ) – The Maryland Department of Agriculture is reminding residents and lawn care professionals that the fertilizer blackout dates authorized by Maryland’s Lawn Fertilizer Law will take effect on November 16, 2024, and will remain in place until March 1, 2025. These blackout dates are designed to protect local streams and the Chesapeake Bay from the runoff of unused fertilizer during late fall and winter when grass is typically dormant and cannot utilize additional nutrients. Applying fertilizer to hard or frozen ground increases the risk of runoff into storm drains that flow into the Bay.

During the blackout period, citizens are prohibited from fertilizing lawns with nitrogen and/or phosphorus products. However, from November 16 through December 1, 2024, lawn care professionals may apply up to 0.5 pound of soluble or insoluble nitrogen per 1,000 square feet on lawns they manage. Potassium and lime may still be applied to lawns during the blackout period.

It is important to note that while fertilizer products may be purchased at local retail stores year-round, they may not be applied to lawns during the blackout period. Additionally, fertilizer products should never be used to melt ice on sidewalks, driveways, and other paved surfaces. Fertilizers that land on hard surfaces or frozen ground can easily wash into storm drains, creeks, and streams that lead to the Chesapeake Bay.

Citizens and lawn care professionals may resume lawn fertilizer applications on March 1, 2025, as long as the ground is not frozen or heavy rain is not predicted. A soil test is required before phosphorus may be applied to established lawns. 

Maryland’s Lawn Fertilizer Law requires lawn care professionals to be certified by MDA to apply fertilizer to lawns that they manage or work under the direct supervision of a certified individual. Additionally, licenses are required for both individuals and businesses that fertilize turf. A list of certified lawn care professionals can be viewed here. Please visit this website for more information about Maryland’s Lawn Fertilizer Law and fertilizer best management practices.

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