County provides guide to alternatives for lawn fertilizer
Lee County reminded the public that during the summertime months, its ordinance prohibits the use of fertilizers that contain nitrogen and phosphorus in unincorporated Lee — which includes Captiva.
Residents are encouraged to seek alternatives to fertilizer to keep their lawns and landscape healthy and fed, while also ensuring local waterways remain protected.
“With accessible alternatives, you can ensure your lawn stays healthy this summer, while also prioritizing the safety of Southwest Florida’s waterways,” the county reported.
The following are accessible alternatives that homeowners can use:
– Compost: Combine a balanced mix of carbon-rich “browns,” such as dead leaves, branches and twigs, sawdust and shredded paper, with nitrogen-rich “greens,” such as grass clippings, leaves, produce scraps, tea and coffee grounds, lint and hair. Use three parts browns to one-part greens and keep the compost moist, occasionally mixing it. When all of the materials have broken down, the compost is ready to be spread in the landscaping or on the lawn.
– Mulch: Use mulch to help retain moisture in landscape beds, control erosion, feed soil and help reduce the growth of weeds. The UF/IFAS recommends an organic mulch, like pine bark, to enrich the soil.
– Grass clippings: Blowing grass clippings away once the lawn has been mowed may be tempting, but leaving grass clippings down can act as a natural compost. Grass clippings are nitrogen-rich and act as a food source for the lawn as they decompose.
The county noted that residents should abide by Lee County’s Fertilize Smart guidelines year-round, but should avoid the use of fertilizer from June 1 to Sept. 30 in unincorporated areas.
For more information, visit FertilizeSmart.com.