While spring is the season for gardening and lawn care, it is important to remember the state and county laws regarding fertilizers and pesticides.
Fertilizers often contain nitrogen and phosphorus. While these nutrients may aid plant growth, they can also leech into local waterways and damage the Chesapeake Bay.
When it rains, excess nutrients from fertilizer enters streams and rivers. Once in the waterways, these excess nutrients aid algae bloom growth in the Bay. The excessive algae growth blocks sunlight from reaching the native plants at the bottom of the Bay. Algae growth depletes the oxygen in the Bay and harms underwater species.
The County abides by the state laws on fertilizers. When using fertilizer, everyone must follow the University of Maryland’s guidelines. Do not apply fertilizer if heavy rain is predicted or if the ground is frozen. Read the instructions on labels carefully.
Avoid placing fertilizer around streams, driveways and sidewalks. Keep fertilizer at least 10 to 15 feet away from waterways. Fertilizer that lands on sidewalks, driveways or paved surfaces must be swept back onto the lawn or cleaned up under Maryland’s Lawn Fertilizer Law.
A soil test is required to apply phosphorus. Information on soil testing is available on the University of Maryland’s website. Phosphorus can only be applied if a soil test says that it is needed, or if a lawn is being established, patched or renovated.
The County does have regulations for pesticides. Under the County’s Pesticide Law, only certain pesticides can be used on private lawns, playgrounds, mulched recreation areas and childcare facilities. When shopping for pesticides, look for products that are listed for organic gardening or are OMRI-listed for organic use. Avoid Weed and Feed products because they contain a fertilizer and herbicide that are not allowed under the pesticides law, according to the County’s Department of Environmental Protection.
For more information on what pesticides can be used, visit the Department of Environmental Protection’s website.
