ANNAPOLIS, MD ( November 4, 2025) ~ Annapolis, MD - As the winter season approaches, the Maryland Department of Agriculture is reminding residents and lawn care professionals about the upcoming fertilizer blackout dates. These dates, authorized by Maryland's Lawn Fertilizer Law, will go into effect on November 16, 2025 and will remain in place until March 1, 2026.

The purpose of these blackout dates is to protect local streams and the Chesapeake Bay from fertilizer runoff during late fall and winter. With grass being dormant during this time, it cannot effectively use extra nutrients. Applying fertilizer to hard or frozen ground also increases the risk of runoff into nearby waterways.

During the entire blackout period, citizens are prohibited from fertilizing lawns with nitrogen and/or phosphorus products. However, lawn care professionals are allowed to apply up to 0.5 pound of soluble or insoluble nitrogen per 1,000 square feet on lawns they manage from November 16 through December 1, 2025. This exception does not apply to phosphorus products.

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It is important for citizens to be aware that while fertilizer products may be purchased at local retail stores year-round, they may not be applied to lawns during the blackout period. Furthermore, these products should never be used to melt ice on sidewalks, driveways, and other paved surfaces. Fertilizer that lands on hard surfaces or frozen ground can easily wash into storm drains and waterways that lead to the Chesapeake Bay.

The application of lawn fertilizers can resume on March 1, 2026 as long as the ground is not frozen or heavy rain is not predicted. However, before applying phosphorus to established lawns during this time period, a soil test is required.

Under Maryland's Lawn Fertilizer Law, lawn care professionals must be certified by MDA (Maryland Department of Agriculture) in order to apply fertilizer to lawns they manage or work under direct supervision. Both individuals and businesses must obtain licenses in order to fertilize turf. A list of certified lawn care professionals for hire can be found on the MDA website.

For more information about Maryland's Lawn Fertilizer Law and best management practices for fertilizer use, citizens and lawn care professionals can visit the MDA website. As responsible stewards of the environment, it is important for all residents to follow these regulations and guidelines to protect the health of local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay.

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