County fertilizer restriction period goes into effect
Lee County reminded the public that fertilizers containing nitrogen or phosphorous may not be used on lawns and landscapes during the rainy season, between June 1 and Sept. 30, including on Captiva.
Excessive nutrients — nitrogen and phosphorus — from fertilizer used on urban lawns and landscapes can have a detrimental effect on water quality in Southwest Florida. The county reported that it is particularly true during the rainy season, which is typically June through October. Excess nutrients in stormwater runoff can stimulate algae blooms, including drift algae and blue-green algae, and has been implicated in red tide blooms. The blooms can result in harmful impacts to beaches, wildlife and the local economy.
The county added that responsible use of fertilizer, including rainy season restrictions imposed by local ordinances, is a cost-effective way of controlling nutrient pollution entering the county’s waterways.
For more information, visit https://fertilizesmart.com/.