1) Test Your Soil  Test your soil before applying fertilizers.  Soils in many parts of the Finger Lakes have an adequate amount of phosphorus to grow a healthy lawn.  Testing your soil will save you money and will prevent applying excess phosphorus.  Contact your local Cornell Cooperative Extension (394-3977) office for more information or to purchase a soil testing kit.

2) Fertilize Responsibly  Use only 0-phosphate fertilizer unless a soil test indicates the need for a low phosphorus fertilizer. Too much phosphorus in our lake can stimulate algae blooms and plant growth with devastating impacts.  Only apply lawn fertilizer in the fall when grass needs the nutrients to develop a strong root system.  Sweep up any spillage immediately and avoid fertilizing near storm drains or waterways.

3) Do not apply fertilizers and pesticides when there is a threat of rain!

4) Cut Your Grass 3 Inches High  And leave the clippings on the lawn.  Higher grass holds in moisture, crowds out weeds and the clippings act as a natural fertilizer.

5) Don't over water.  Apply just enough water to moisten root zone - 1/4 to 1/2 inch on dry soil.

6) Properly Dispose of Yard Waste  Yard waste such as leaves and grass clippings can contribute significant amounts of phosphorus to waterways.  Keep these wastes out of ditches, streets, storm drains and streams.  Leaves can be composted and grass clippings provide a natural fertilizer if left on the lawn.

7)  Plant Bare Areas  Exposed soil, and the phosphorus attached to soil particles, is easily washed away with rain.  Keep soil covered with vegetation or mulch.  Plants reduce the chance that phosphorus will reach waterways because grass, shrubs, and trees slow the speed and decrease the amount of water runoff.