Fertilizers

Fertilizer contains nutrients that promote plant growth for our lawns and plants when applied properly. If fertilizer is applied too frequently, too heavily, or immediately before too much rain or irrigation, the runoff will carry excess nutrients into local waterways and can cause algae blooms and fish kills.

If you observe stormwater pollution, call the Stormwater Helpline at 919-996-3940 or send an email to IllegalDischarge@raleighnc.gov.

Before You Apply Fertilizers

Follow these tips before fertilizing to protect our waterways.

1. Read the fertilizer label

• The label will tell you how many square feet can be covered by one bag.
• Look for a “slow-release” or “controlled release” fertilizer if possible.

2. Contain fertilizer spills and grass clippings

• Sweep fertilizer spills from paved surfaces and place back into the container.
• Sweep or blow grass clippings from your walkways or driveways back onto your yard after you cut your lawn.

3. Avoid local waterways

• Don’t fertilize near creeks, streams, or storm drains. A good practice is to keep fertilizer about 10 feet from these waterways.

4. Pay attention to the weather

• Apply fertilizer on dry soil, avoid fertilizing during or before a rainstorm. Instead, use a sprinkler or irrigation system to apply a small amount of water on fertilizer.

5. Use mulch, natural fertilizers, and barriers to reduce your need.

• If you are establishing a new lawn or plantings, consider stormwater practices (straw wattles, silt fences, etc.) on the perimeter of your property that can help contain erosion and stop fertilizers from entering our storm system.

How You Can Help

Help us preserve our rivers, lakes and streams and prevent nutrient pollution, which can alter and destroy our water resources and recreational areas.

If excess fertilizer application or spraying is within the immediate area of a stream, river, or lake, please report this to our illicit discharge program by emailing us at IllegalDischarge@raleighnc.gov.