Fertilizer
| |
 |
Organic is Best
Organic fertilizers are "slow-release" and won't wash off into streams
|
Go Organic!
"Natural organic" or slow-release fertilizers provide nutrients in small amounts over an extended period of time - just the way your plants need them!
N = nitrogen, P = phosphorous, K = potassium
Nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium are three major nutrients that are important for the growth of healthy plants. All plant food (fertilizer) needs to have a healthy balance of nutrients.
In the Pacific Northwest, the optimum ratio of N, P and K is three parts nitrogen to one part phosphorous to two parts potassium: 3N-to-1P-to-2K.
Slow-Release Fertilizers Are Best
Quick-release fertilizers generally are high in nitrogen and highly soluble. As a result, water and rain can wash them right down the storm drain - directly into local waterways. Too much nitrogen causes algae to grow, depleting oxygen and suffocating aquatic wildlife.
Look for Percent Solubility in Water
Lawns need only small amounts of nutrients. Applying more fertilizer than what the label recommends will NOT make grass greener or healthier. Stick to the amount called for on the label, if not less!
When to Apply
The best time to feed your lawn is in the fall; this builds up nutrient reserves in the grass. If you decide to fertilize twice a year, feed once in late May and then again in the fall. But remember, May and June are heavy grass-growing months, especially if we have a lot of rain, and the lawn also is using the reserves it has built up over winter.
top of page
|
