MDA Encourages Homeowners to Protect the Chesapeake Bay by Changing Fertilizer Habits, Complying with New Lawn Fertilizer Law

ANNAPOLIS, MD – Now that spring has finally arrived, the Maryland Department of Agriculture (MDA) reminds homeowners and lawn care professionals that responsible lawn care practices can make a big difference for the health of our streams, rivers and the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland’s new lawn fertilizer law takes effect October 1, but it’s not too soon to get a jump on sound backyard conservation practices.

“Lawn fertilizer accounts for about 44 percent of the fertilizer sold in Maryland,” said Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance. “As citizens begin working outside this spring, we encourage them to keep in mind that the actions we take on the land can make a difference for the Bay.”

Beginning October 1, lawn fertilizer products sold in Maryland will no longer contain phosphorus unless they are labeled for use in establishing, patching or repairing lawns. Maryland’s lawn fertilizer law also limits the amount of nitrogen contained in lawn care products and requires part of this nitrogen to be in a slow release form. These actions will help reduce nutrient runoff into the streams and rivers that feed the Bay. Additionally, the law requires lawn care professionals to become certified by MDA and to get soil tests for their customers. The law does not impact agricultural fertilizer or fertilizer used for gardens.

Homeowners can make a difference for the Bay this spring by following these best management practices:

• Skip the spring fertilizer. Fertilizing lawns in the spring promotes excessive top growth at the expense of roots. 
• Sharpen lawnmower blades. A cleaner cut looks better and is healthier for the grass. 
• Raise the cutting height of the mower. Taller grass shades out weeds and needs less water. A three inch cut length is ideal for most lawns.
• Leave grass clippings on the lawn. They provide free fertilizer all season long.

If you must fertilize:

• Always follow University of Maryland fertilizer recommendations. Learn about soil testing. Visit extension.umd.edu/hgic for seasonal and yearly fertilizer recommendations. 
• Do not apply fertilizer to sidewalks or other impervious surfaces. Sweep up fertilizer that lands on these surfaces. 
• Keep fertilizer applications 10 to 15 feet from waterways.
• Do not apply fertilizer if heavy rain is predicted.
• When buying fertilizer, look for the “O” as the middle number. This means that the product is phosphorus-free.

For more information, visit www.mda.maryland.gov/fertilizer.

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