Sarasota County is reminding the community to skip using nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers on lawns and landscapes from June 1 through September 30, as part of an effort to keep the community's waterways healthy. The ordinance, which was enacted in 2007, reduces the nutrients in stormwater and helps to protect natural habitats that receive runoff from the stormwater system. Nutrient runoff can cause harmful algal blooms that block sunlight from reaching underwater grasses, rob the water of oxygen and threaten aquatic life.

The county offered the following tips for those taking care of their yards: look for products with "0-0" as the first two numbers on the fertilizer label; apply iron, found at most garden centers, as an effective and environmentally friendly alternative to keep lawns green during the summer; use compost to enrich the soil; buy plants adapted to Florida's climate; and mow higher to encourage deep roots that resist fungus and pests. Do not direct clippings into the road, stormwater system or water bodies. To learn more, visit the website below.

Sarasota County Public Works - Fertilizer Management