Fertilize Florida

Contact Information

What is the Fertilizer Ordinance

Fertilizers washed away by stormwater runoff can pollute Seminole County’s lakes and waterways. The Fertilizer Ordinance establishes rules for using nitrogen and phosphorus-based fertilizers to help protect our shared water resources.

Across Seminole County, fertilizer standards are consistent. The County’s ordinance applies to unincorporated Seminole County, and each of the seven cities has adopted a similar ordinance.

The Rain Check on Fertilizer

Before you fertilize, pause and take a Rain Check. A few quick checks year-round help keep nutrients on your lawn and out of storm drains.

Summer Check

June – September

No nitrogen or phosphorus fertilizer on lawns
Iron/micronutrient “summer blends” allowed if needed
Don’t fertilize within 24 hours of heavy rain

Spring & Fall Check

March – May and October – November

Choose fertilizer with at least 65% slow-release nitrogen (higher is better)
Avoid phosphorus unless a soil test shows it’s needed
Free soil testing: UF/IFAS Extension

Winter Check

December - February

Grass grows slowly or may be dormant
Take a rain check — fertilizer can wait

Check for Water

Keep fertilizer 15 feet away from ponds, lakes, canals, streams, and wetlands

Deflector Shield Check

Deflector shields are required with broadcast/rotary spreaders
Helps keep fertilizer off pavement

Lawn Service Check

Download the “Know Your Lawn Care Professional” Checklist
Verify your provider follows local guidelines

How to Read the Fertilizer Bag

Fertilizer bags list three numbers (example: 15-0-15). This is the N-P-K ratio. These numbers tell you what nutrients are in the product.

Nitrogen (N)

Nitrogen helps grass grow green and thick, but some fertilizers release it all at once and can wash off your lawn.

During the non-restricted season (October–May), choose a fertilizer with at least 65% slow-release nitrogen so nutrients feed the lawn gradually. This information is found on the back of the bag under “Guaranteed Analysis.”

Phosphorus (P)

Most lawns in Florida do not need phosphorous. Look for a 0 as the middle number unless a soil test shows phosphorus is required.

Potassium (K)

Potassium improves drought and disease resistance.

Not sure how much fertilizer to apply? Use our online fertilizer calculator to determine the right amount for your yard.

Use the Fertilizer Calculator

Learn More

Did you know? Grass clippings in storm drains carry nutrients to nearby waterways.

Sweep them back onto your lawn and remember that reclaimed water already contains nitrogen and phosphorus which means you may not need to apply any fertilizer.

Watch these lawn care tips before you fertilize.

Questions on Fertilizer Use?

Shannon Wetzel, Program Manager / Watershed Management Division Manager
200 West County Home Road
Sanford, FL 32773
407-665-2455
swetzel@seminolecountyfl.gov

Tina McIntyre, Florida-Friendly Landscaping Extension Agent
250 W. County Home Road
Sanford, FL 32773
407-665-5575
kmcintyre02@seminolecountyfl.gov