Fertilize Appropriately Part 1 (turf)

At the most basic level, fertilizers feed plants, helping them to grow better. Fertilizing can be done by applying composted organic material, packaged fertilizer or a specific mineral, such as iron. Different types of plants benefit from different fertilizers.

Lawns

Grass that receives appropriate levels of fertilizer — not too little and not too much — produces a dense root and shoot system capable of filtering out impurities or other components of leachate or runoff. A properly fertilized lawn absorbs nonpoint source pollutants, helps stabilize soil, reduces ambient air temperatures and promotes a healthy ecosystem of its own. Since it grows more vigorously, a properly fertilizered lawn might also require fewer cultural or chemical controls for weeds, insects or diseases.

Overfertilizing can aggravate pest problems, stimulate excessive growth and require frequent watering. In addition, when people use too much fertilizer on their landscapes, it can seep through the ground, past the root zone of the grass, plants or trees and into the aquifer. It can also be washed off by rainfall directly into surface water or via stormwater systems. Before you apply fertilizer, it is very important that you read and understand the label.

Look for slow-release fertilizers, or fertilizers that have a high percentage of slow-release nitrogen in them. These products have less potential to leach or run off into Florida’s waterways than quick-release sources. Nitrogen promotes shoot growth, so if you use slow-release nitrogen, you’ll have less growth surge. In lawns, that means less thatch accumulation following fertilizer application — which ultimately means less mowing. Look at the fertilizer sources listed on the back of the bag and fi nd the amount of nitrogen that is “slow-release.” The higher the percentage of slow-release, the less chance of leaching — and less thatch and mowing!

Some parts of Florida have year-round growing seasons; other parts have dormant lawns for parts of the year. Apply fertilizer when grass is actively growing, not when it is dormant. Do not apply too much nitrogen at one time in summer months when grass is already growing rapidly. Consult the Manatee County UF/IFAS Extension office with questions at 941-722-4524 or email michelleatkinson@ufl.edu.