Are Phosphate Fertilizers Safe or Dangerous?
The safety of phosphate fertilizer depends on how it is used. The amount, timing, location and frequency of applications need to be considered. Phosphorus is a nutrient required by all plants and animals, but provided in excess can yield negative effects to lawns, gardens and the surrounding environment.
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Phosphorus Requirements
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Phosphorus is an essential nutrient required by all plants. It is used in converting sunlight to a usable energy source and is a key component in many compounds within the plant.
Location
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Phosphorus pollution in freshwater systems can lead to algal blooms and undue stress on aquatic systems. Lawns and agricultural fields adjacent to streams, rivers, lakes and wetlands are often sources of excess phosphorus to these water bodies, so extra care should be taken not to over-apply fertilizer.
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Amount
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Always follow the instruction on the fertilizer packaging and do some research into the phosphorus requirements for specific plants and vegetables. Phosphorus binds to soil particles; however, soils can only retain a certain amount of phosphorus and excess phosphorus can be washed away during heavy rains. Applying more than is required by the plants increases the chances of polluting adjacent waters.
Timing
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Applying fertilizer during a plant's growing season optimizes phosphorus uptake and minimizes loss to the surrounding areas. Conversely, applying fertilizer when the plant is not actively seeking nutrients from the soil can damage surrounding plants and lead to phosphorus pollution of aquatic systems. Further, applying the fertilizer shortly before planting will minimize phosphorus loss and increase uptake by young seedlings.
How to Apply
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The United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service recommends that in agricultural fields, phosphorus fertilizers should be injected three inches below the soil surface and that disturbance of the top soil be minimized. Injecting below the surface will increase phosphorus retention within the system as well as increase the availability to plant roots.
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