Proper fertilization is crucial in a quality lawn. Too much fertilizer can create a spongy, or “thatchy” lawn, making watering difficult, as well as weed, disease or insect control. The most effective fertilizers are balanced, slow release, full-nutrient blends containing the macro, micro, and trace nutrients that Florida lawns require.
It’s important to fertilize lawns and trees to maintain total plant health care. Over-fertilizing lawns aggravates pest problems and stimulates excessive growth. Under-fertilizing lawns may lead to thin grass or weeds. When excessive fertilizer is applied to plants, it can leach past the root zone and into the groundwater, which is the source of our drinking water. Excessive fertilizer application also contributes to pollution in Florida’s springs, rivers, streams, lakes, and bays.
While soil generally provides most of the nutrients needed for optimum plant growth, there are times when you will need a fertilizer. Fertilizers contain one or more essential plant nutrients and can be applied to landscapes to improve plant growth and quality, or to correct a nutrient deficiency. There are many fertilizers available to consumers at local lawn and garden centers.
Fertilizers available to consumers for use in the landscape will have variable properties, depending on brand and formulation. Many fertilizer materials are inorganic or synthetic.
Some examples of inorganic nutrient sources that may be used in blends include:
- Ammonium Nitrate
- Ammonium Phosphate
- Potassium Chloride
Organic fertilizer materials include:
- Animal Manures
- Composted Materials
- Plant or Animal Residue
In Florida, phosphorus has been removed from most fertilizers due to a controversial theory that using it in plant fertilization promotes algae bloom – “red tide” – a natural phenomenon in the Gulf of Mexico. The EPA has now targeted phosphates, one of Florida’s largest industries due to our natural phosphate deposits. In many states, phosphates have been banned from dishwashing detergents.
Fertilizers encourage plants to grow faster and greener or to encourage the development of more blooms and fruit. Fertilizing can be done by applying composted organic material, packaged fertilizer, or a specific mineral, such as iron. Commercial landscapers, Certified Arborists, and tree trimmers are most familiar with the plants, greenery, and soil in your area. These tree care professionals are usually your best bet when it comes to fertilizing and your other landscaping needs.
For more information on lawn care and fertilization, contact our total plant health care professionals in South Florida. We not only provide reputable tree trimming services in Boca Raton and Delray, but we also provide fertilization services for your beloved greenery. Contact Zimmerman Tree Service today!
