Are manufactured fertilizers going to burn the lawn?
“Burning” occurs when fertilizer is so concentrated around the roots that it essentially pulls water out of the plant. Burning most commonly occurs when a lawn is fertilized in hot weather and/or without being watered. This is particularly a problem with the fast-release fertilizers. Slow-release products, both natural or manufactured, also have the potential of burning, but the nutrients usually do not build up to such high concentrations in the soil. To prevent burning of the lawn, always water after applying any fertilizer, unless the label recommends otherwise. Are manufactured fertilizers more likely to cause pollution? As mentioned, all fertilizers must be broken down to the same nutrient form. Therefore, all types of fertilizer can contribute to pollution, if used incorrectly. The leaching of nitrates may be of concern in areas of sandy soils when over-watering and over-fertilization occur, particularly with the use of fast-release forms. Excess phosphorous has also been involve
