4 Simple Actions for Healthier Lawns & Lakes

Spring is here! As days the days get warmer and the land grows green again, it’s time to start thinking about lawn care. But did you know that the products we use on our lawns can have unintended consequences for our lakes?

Many lawn fertilizers contain phosphorus, a nutrient that helps plants grow. While phosphorus can make our lawns look lush, too much can cause serious problems for our lakes and streams! Excess phosphorus in the water acts like a turbo boost for algae growth. Algae might not sound like a big deal, but when populations explode, they can turn into harmful algal blooms. Those blooms can release toxins that are bad news for aquatic life, animals, our pets, and even humans. Plus, as algae die and decompose, they suck up oxygen in the water, making it hard for fish and other critters to survive. It’s a domino effect that hurts the whole ecosystem.

The good news? With just a few simple changes, you can create a lake-friendly lawn care routine! Here’s how.

1. Test your soil. With regular soil testing, you can find out exactly what nutrients your lawn needs. That will help you apply fertilizers strategically. If your lawn doesn’t need a nutrient boost, then you’ll save time and money and prevent excess fertilizer from washing into our waterways.
2. Choose phosphorus-free fertilizer. Phosphorus-free fertilizers keep your lawn just as lush, and there are lots of options out there. Look for fertilizers labeled “phosphorus-free.” You can also check the N-P-K ratio on the bag. There should be a zero in the middle. What if you use a lawn care service? Don’t hesitate to ask them to go phosphorus-free too!
3. Apply fertilizer properly. Always follow the instructions on your fertilizer bag, and try to avoid overdoing it, especially right before it rains.
4. Don’t fertilize at all. You can have a healthy lawn without fertilizer! Try leaving your lawn clippings on the lawn to decompose. They’ll return valuable nutrients to the soil. Mow at a taller height (3-3.5 inches) to help with other issues like weeds, insects, and diseases.

By making informed choices, you can keep your lawn looking great and protect our lakes! Want to dig a little deeper? Visit Clear Choices Clean Water to learn more.