Safe Lawn Fertilizer
Fertilizing the lawn helps grass grow green and lush, but many chemical compounds found in chemical fertilizers may be harmful to pets and animals. Chemical run-off from lawn fertilizers also contributes to pollution. Today there are many environmentally and pet-safe alternatives to chemical fertilizers, including commercial products and home composting ideas. The safest fertilizers on the market are those labeled organic, which contain no harmful chemicals. Does this Spark an idea?
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Benefits of Safe Fertilizers
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Organic and safe fertilizers have many benefits to offer those concerned about lawn care. According to EcoChem, organic fertilizers feed grass and help replenish nutrients in the soil. These products are also known to improve drainage, aeration and improve water-holding capacity. In addition, organic fertilizers are always safe for use around pets and families.
Soil Building
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Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of safe fertilizer is its ability to promote a healthy balance between the soil and the grass. Soil becomes unhealthy when exposed to too many chemicals, which tend to make it dry and lifeless, according to the Safe Lawn website. Organic compounds help build nutrients naturally because they do not kill the microorganisms that live in soil. Things like insects, bacteria, fungi and organic matter help break down nutrients and return them to the soils. Organic fertilizers help to build the soil's nutrients, keep weeds at bay and promote healthy grass growth.
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Frequency and Lawn Maintenance
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Organic fertilizers should be used between two and three times a growing season, according to EcoChem. Combine fertilizer use with weekly watering and grass cuttings that leave the grass long. Removing more than one third of the blade deprives the soil of necessary nutrients. Longer grass tends to handle stress more easily, grow longer roots and provides shade to the lawn which inhibits the growth of weeds.
Types of Organic Fertilizers
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Organic fertilizers come in two main types, including commercial varieties available at local, organic nurseries. For a home remedy, liquefied compost, known as compost tea, is an excellent alternative to chemical fertilizers, according to Safe Lawn.
Choosing a Fertilizer
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Fertilizer manufacturers are not required to list all of the ingredients on the label, according to the Living the Country Life website. In order to choose a safe, organic lawn fertilizer, the site recommends reading the label. Avoid products including inert ingredients, which are often poisonous chemical compounds. Fertilizers without inert ingredients are most often safe for use around pets and children.
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References
- Photo Credit fertile farmland valley image by Yali Shi from Fotolia.com
