When to Apply Fertilizer ● Follow the directions from the results of your soil test. ● Time it right:
o In October or November to encourage root development; or o In March or April to encourage tip and leaf growth. o Do not fertilize in the hottest months of the year. Dehydration and excess fertilizer salts in soil can spell disaster for a tree. ● Never fertilize a newly planted tree – mulch is best for the first 3-4 years after planting. Where to Apply Fertilizer ● Put fertilizer stakes or dig the holes for granular fertilizer under the branches of the tree in a grid formation, about every two ft. ● Start at the outside, or to the soil starting at the tree’s dripline, and go in towards the stem of the tree. ● For all trees, stay at least four feet away from the trunk of the tree and work out to the tips of the branches. Using Pesticides Safely in Montgomery County In 2015, the Healthy Lawns Act (Bill 52-14) was passed to restrict the use of lawn care pesticides on both public and private property. Montgomery County was the first county in the nation to enact such a law. More than 50 organizations, including Conservation Montgomery, partnered with the nonprofit Safe Grow Montgomery to advocate for the Healthy Lawns Act. You must comply with county law when using pesticides or chemical herbicides that are suspected or have proven to be carcinogenic for humans. Montgomery County’s pesticide law restricts the use of certain pesticides on private lawns, playgrounds, mulched recreation areas, and childcare facilities. Most synthetic pesticides are not allowed to treat pests in lawns. Weeds and pests can be prevented by practicing organic lawn care, which should not require the use of
any chemicals. Safe Grow Montgomery’s extensive webpages, along with County websites, highlight the tips and tools for successful organic lawn care. Only organic or minimum-risk pesticides are allowed for use on lawns, playgrounds, mulched recreation areas, and childcare facilities. Some exemptions apply. Montgomery County law allows the use of EPA- registered pesticides which have active ingredients approved by the National Organics Standards Board; and pesticides which have ingredients that don't require EPA registration.
Approved signage for Montgomery County.
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