LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) - As gardening season begins, the Allen Soil and Water Conservation District remind residents to prepare fertilizer correctly.
Fertilizer and pesticides can help plants grow, but improper use can cause the opposite effect. Over-application of these products can burn plants and ruin soil health. Even more importantly, the excess chemicals do not stay in the garden. When rain falls, the materials can increase pollution in water ways. The Allen SWCD encourages residents to read instructions on the packages before applying for the best results.
"Remember, if it's good enough to kill the bad stuff, it's good enough to kill the good stuff. So, if you want butterflies, if you want birds, if you want dragonflies in your yard, you got to make sure that you're not putting down too much," says Lydia Archambo, Stormwater Coordinator at the Allen Soil and Water Conservation District.
She adds that every fertilizer and pesticide have directions on the packaging for how to use the product, and how much is needed for the amount of gardening. For more information on fertilizer and safe gardening, call the Allen Soil and Water Conservation District at (419)-222-0846
