A variety of fertilizers and pesticides are available in the market today that can make your lawn and garden look beautiful. But have you ever wondered what effects these chemicals have on your yard, wildlife, groundwater and your own health? The chemicals in these products pollute our waterways if washed from our lawns and gardens into storm drains or roadside ditches that lead directly to our lakes and rivers.

Incorrect gardening activities such as overuse of fertilizer/pesticides, overwatering of lawns, and improper disposal of yard waste (e.g., grass clippings, fallen leaves, and yard trimmings) can be quite detrimental to water quality. Although nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are vital for plant growth, when in excess, these pollutants can contaminate our drinking water and harm fish and aquatic life.

Some of the harmful effects of improper lawn care practices are:

• Over-fertilization of lawns can cause algae blooms in our lakes and rivers, cutting off essential sunlight to underwater grasses. As algae decays, it depletes dissolved oxygen in the water and can cause fish kills.
• Pesticides and herbicides contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to humans, animals, and plants and contaminate drinking water sources.
• Yard waste, such as grass clippings and leaves, that enters the storm drains can clog pipes and ditches, causing street flooding.

Practicing earth-friendly landscaping in your yard and garden can help protect our waterways. Below are some tips on responsible gardening practices:

• Test your soil to determine its needs before applying fertilizer.
• If your soil needs fertilizer, purchase fertilizer with a no- or low-phosphorus mixture and slow-release nitrogen for established lawns.
• Keep your grass at least three inches high to promote healthier roots
• Select plants native to Virginia. These plants are more disease resistant and require less fertilizer and water.
• Use mulch around trees and plants to help retain water, reduce weeds, and minimize the need for pesticides.
• Try nontoxic or less toxic alternatives to chemical insecticides, such as traps, horticultural oils, and insecticide soap.

Places to Know

• Loudoun County Farmers Markets
• Parks in Loudoun County

Rules to Know

• Loudoun County’s Stormwater Management Program
• Household Hazardous Waste Disposal
• Recycling Information

Learn More!

• Loudoun County Master Gardeners
• Loudoun Soil and Water Conservation District
• A Virginian’s Year-Round Guide to Yard Care