Summer is fast approaching and fertilizer restrictions are upon us! The counties of Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin, along with 40 of their 44 incorporated municipalities, have adopted strong fertilizer ordinances. There are minor differences among the many ordinances, principally in how big to make the fertilizer-free zone and certain exemptions.
These ordinances are part of a unified effort to decrease the nutrient pollution that is present in runoff... a critical part of protecting and restoring the Indian River Lagoon watershed. The same nutrients that are applied to your yard from a fertilizer bag, are also a huge source of nutrient pollution in the lagoon, leading to algae blooms and fish kills.
Unsure of the fertilizer restrictions where you live, visit the Be Floridian Now Website to find out what is legal in your city - https://befloridiannow.org/fertilizer-ordinances/.
Concerned about your grass turning brown over the summer? Utilize this Pro Tip from UF/IFAS!
Many times turf grasses, such as Centipede grass, Bahia grass and St. Augustine grass, turn yellow during the summer due to lack of Nitrogen or Manganese. The addition of Iron (Fe) to these grasses may provide the desired dark green color, but not stimulate the excessive grass growth that may follow Nitrogen application. Usually, Iron Sulfate (2 oz. per 3–5 gallons of water per 1000 sq. ft.) or a chelated Iron source are used to provide this greening effect.
Looking for some Florida-friendly plants to add to your stormwater retention pond or shoreline buffer? Check out these great suggestions from UF/IFAS!