Landscape Fertilization
Uniform, bright green lawns are often the result of frequent chemical fertilization. These products typically contain nitrogen and phosphorus, which wash off into our lakes, fueling toxic algae blooms, reducing oxygen levels, and increasing lake maintenance requirements.
New Jersey Fertilizer Law (NJSA 58:10A-64): https://www.nj.gov/dep/healthylawnshealthywater/
No fertilizer may be applied within 25 feet of any waterbody
Phosphorus fertilizers are prohibited, unless a soil test proves deficiency or for establishing new turf
Fertilizer is suggested not to be applied:
Between Nov 15–March 1
On frozen or saturated ground
Within 24 hours of forecasted heavy rain
Even if you're technically following these rules, runoff from traditional lawn care is still contributing to:
Lake nutrient overload
Harmful toxic algae blooms (i.e. lyngbya)
Higher lake maintenance costs for everyone
Here's what you can do differently to help us balance the lake ecosystem:
Add a Riparian Buffer (see Riparian Buffer Page)
Test Your Soil
Most NJ soils do not need phosphorus
Soil tests save money and reduce environmental damage
Order one through Rutgers Soil Testing Lab: njaes.rutgers.edu/soil-testing-lab
Grasscycle - Low Effort, High Reward!
Leave grass clippings on the lawn
Naturally returns nitrogen to the soil with no extra fertilizer needed
Finished Compost - Next Best
Apply a thin topdressing (¼–½ inch) of screened compost in early fall
Improves soil structure, retains moisture, and feeds soil microbes
Won’t leach nutrients into the lake like synthetic fertilizers
Use self-made or buy from trusted local sources like Como Supply
Organic Slow-Release Lawn Fertilizer (If All Else Fails)
Look for products labeled "slow-release" or "water-insoluble nitrogen"
Use no more than 1 lb of nitrogen per 1,000 sq ft per year
Choose products like Espoma Organic Lawn Food (low nitrogen, safe for pets)
In summary, compost is the best input option, as it releases nutrients slowly and naturally. Compost builds long-term soil health by feeding microbes, reducing the need for future inputs. Together, we can make our lakes clean and thriving.
