Non Toxic Lawn Fertilizers

A lush lawn doesn't require toxic chemicals.

You can enjoy a lush, healthy landscape without the use of toxic fertilizers. If your plants don't look healthy, determine the cause before applying synthetic chemicals to your plants. Non-toxic, environmentally-friendly fertilizers can help your plants without causing harm.

Get to the Root of the Problem

Beside low nutrient levels, issues such as compact soil, too much shade or pest infestation can cause plants to fail. If the soil needs nutrients, have it tested to determine exactly which type of fertilizer will provide the most benefits.

Non-Toxic Materials

If your plants require more nutrients, choose fertilizers made from non-toxic materials. Create compost from food and garden waste in a composter or worm bin, or apply natural fertilizers, such as manure, straw, composted sewage sludge, fish emulsion, seaweed or peat moss. Other non-toxic options include soybean meal, fish meal, green sand, top dressing, rock mineral fertilizer, kelp, blood meal or bone meal.

Manual Fertilizers

Fertilization can be done with non-toxic, manual methods. Mow high -- about 3 inches is optimum -- and leave the grass clippings on your lawn to provide a natural, composting nitrogen and phosphorus source. Water grass thoroughly but only once a week to prevent runoff and encourage grass to grow healthy, deep roots. This is a naturally-fertilizing method that allows grass to absorb more nutrients.

Cultural Fertilizers

Cultural fertilizer methods include planting species that require less water and nutrient inputs, such as fescue or drought- and pest-resistant native plants. Add white clover, small legume species, wood violets and other low-growing ground covers to your landscaping, even in your grass. These plants add nutrients to the lawn, provide texture and color, and reduce the need for toxic, synthetic fertilizers.

References

• Michigan State University Extension; Alternative Fertilizer Choices Including Organic Options; 2002
• University of Maryland University College: Watershed Runoff Alternatives to Fertilizers and Pesticides
• University of California; Energy and Alternatives for Fertilizer and Pesticide Use; Z. R. Helsel; 1992
• University of Wyoming; Alternatives to Fertilizer for Wyoming Crops; Jay Norton; 2009
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System; Fertilizer Basics for Home Grounds; Dave Williams; 1992
• Virginia Commonwealth University, The Spirit; Green Thumb? Pet Owners Need to Be Savvy With Fertilizers; July, 2010

Resources

• University of Wisconsin Extension; Seven Easy Steps to Fewer Lawn Chemicals; Mrill Ingram; 2005
• Organic Gardening; The Dark Side of Lawns; Beth Huxta
• University of Maine; Lawns-Fertilizers; K. Guillard; 2008