Fertilizers
Excess nutrients from fertilizers we use run off into our waterways. This runoff contributes to the algae blooms we see every year in Madison’s lakes. And while a relatively small source of nutrients compared to the local farms, it is something that we can at least control. If you do apply fertilizers, follow the below guidelines.
Timing & Diligence
To help reduce runoff into our lakes, avoid applying lawn fertilizer when we’re expecting a heavy rainfall. Water grass lightly right after fertilizing to help it soak into the soil. And make sure to clean up any spilled fertilizer on hard surfaces.
No Phosphorus
Village residents are banned from applying lawn fertilizers containing phosphorus (it’s actually a state-wide law!). Phosphorus is one of the leading causes of those (gross!) algae blooms in our lakes. However, fertilizers containing phosprous can still be used for new lawns or in home gardens. You can tell if your product is phosphorus free by looking at the package, which should have three numbers on it, denoting (in order) the percentage of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potash (K). If the middle number is 0, the fertilizer is phosphorus-free.