New legislation aims to protect Michigan’s waters from phosphorous in turf fertilizers
One of the primary contaminants of surface water in Michigan is phosphorus, much of which comes from non-agricultural application such as turf fertilizers. Phosphorus is readily accepted as a critical component for plant growth and is a common component of fertilizers used by homeowners. According to Kevin Frank with MSU’s Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, phosphorus movement from urban landscapes can be attributed to several sources including the physical movement of soil or organic debris (tree leaves, grass clippings, animal waste), the leaching or runoff of phosphorus from the soil, and direct movement of phosphorus from fertilizer that is applied to impervious surfaces. Phosphorus movement that is not attributed to a specific activity or land use is often attributed to home lawn applications. Excess phosphorus in lakes and rivers can cause a number of problems including increased algae growth and fish kills.
In the agricultural sector, soil tests have become standard practice in determining the need for different formulation and amounts of fertilizers, and new legislation (Michigan Fertilizer Law 1994 PA 451, Part 85, Fertilizers) aims to...READ MORE
Cool season turfgrasses in upper Midwest lawns benefit from dormant fertilization
Autumn leaves drift down from the trees, memories of hot summer days are fading as you tuck the lawn mower away for the season. Before you head off to hibernate, there is one more task left that can help improve your lawn. Fertilizing your turf this time of the year, sometimes known as a “dormant” or “winterizer” application, can result in a healthier, thicker lawn.
Winterizer fertilizers help the grass build a larger root mass in the fall resulting in a healthier lawn. A stronger root system helps to provide a lawn with better tolerance to heat and drought stress. A healthy turf is also better able to withstand insect and disease problems.
A few years ago, dormant turf fertilizers contained higher rates of phosphorus which were believed to help with root development. This has all changed since researchers found that grass plants utilize nitrogen for root growth in the fall once grass blades stop growing. A basic winterizer fertilizer might be a 24-3-12 or may not contain phosphorus at all as with a 24-0-12.
Another benefit of fertilizing the lawn this time of year is that ...READ MORE
Lawn Tech’s History
The company today is a full-service operation, specializing in turfgrass management and landscape design. Lawn Tech provides services to both residential and commercial properties. We are locally-owned and family-operated, with a home base in the Grand Ledge area.
We offer an extensive list of services that can enhance the appearance of your property. Our mission is to provide quality service, communication, superior products and technical knowledge to every customer. Our goal is for each customer to receive service, education and the satisfaction of having a lawn that is the envy of the neighborhood.







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