Florida-Friendly Landscaping: Fertilize Appropriately

This is the fourth in a series of Florida-Friendly Landscaping webinars for residents of Pasco County! (Please register for each individual webinar presentation of the series, as the corresponding Zoom link will be sent out via email two days prior to the event. The Zoom link will only apply to the individual presentation.)

Plants have varying nutrient needs, depending on the species, the age of the plant, and its location. It’s not always necessary to fertilize your plants or lawns, and too much fertilizer can weaken a plant, promote disease, and invite pests, in addition to wasting money and harming the environment. Before you fertilize, you should always determine if it’s really needed, and if there are any local restrictions. If you do fertilize, always follow the fertilizer label directions and UF/IFAS recommended rates and application timings to prevent nutrient runoff and leaching which can pollute Florida’s waters.

Benefits of Fertilizing Appropriately:

• Ground and surface waters are protected from pollution
• Plant material has the correct color and appearance
• Plants flower and fruit appropriately
• Fertilizing only when necessary (not overfertilizing) saves money, reduces pest problems, and promotes healthy plant growth
• You may be more satisfied with the performance of the landscape plants and turfgrass

What you do in your landscape matters. From the fertilizers you apply to the water you use, your gardening choices can have an impact on land, water, wildlife, and the overall well-being of Florida’s residents.