~ As spring arrives in Maryland, the Department of Agriculture is reminding residents and lawn care professionals to follow the state's Lawn Fertilizer Law. This law, which was put in place to protect local streams, rivers, and the Chesapeake Bay from harmful fertilizer runoff, applies to all non-agricultural sources including golf courses, parks, recreational areas, athletic fields, businesses, and home lawns.

According to Maryland Agriculture Secretary Kevin Atticks, while fertilizers are essential for maintaining healthy lawns, overusing them can have detrimental effects on the environment. "By following Maryland's Lawn Fertilizer Law, residents and lawn care professionals can ensure that their lawns remain healthy while also contributing to cleaner and healthier waterways," he stated.

For those who hire a lawn care professional to fertilize their lawns, it is important to make sure that they are certified by the department's Turfgrass Nutrient Management Program or work under the supervision of a certified professional. The department's website provides an up-to-date list of certified professionals who have been trained and tested in proper application techniques and environmentally-friendly fertilizer practices.

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For those who take care of their own lawns, the department has provided a video with helpful tips. Some highlights include skipping spring fertilization if your lawn is already healthy and instead focusing on fall fertilization for cool-season grasses like fescues and Kentucky bluegrass. Other tips include sharpening lawnmower blades to avoid damaging the grass and mowing at a height of three inches to prevent weed growth and conserve moisture. Additionally, leaving grass clippings on the lawn can provide free fertilizer throughout the season.

If homeowners do decide to fertilize their own lawns, there are several important guidelines to follow. First, it is recommended to test the soil beforehand to determine if additional nutrients or lime are needed. The University of Maryland Extension offers information on soil testing. It is also crucial to read and follow the directions on the fertilizer bag and to follow the University of Maryland Extension's lawn fertilizer schedule. Phosphorus, indicated by the middle number on the fertilizer bag, should only be applied if a soil test shows it is necessary. If any fertilizer lands on sidewalks or driveways, it should be swept back onto the grass or cleaned up. Fertilizer should also be kept at least 10 to 15 feet away from waterways and should not be applied if heavy rain is predicted. Lastly, there are blackout dates for fertilization from November 16 to March 1 that must be followed.

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For more information on Maryland's Lawn Fertilizer Law and best management practices for fertilization, residents can visit the department's website or the University of Maryland Extension website for recommendations and additional tips. By following these guidelines, Maryland residents can help protect their local streams and rivers that ultimately feed into the Chesapeake Bay.

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