Keeping our waterways clean is a top priority. To help with this, important regulations are now in effect regarding fertilizer application for lawns and landscape plants. These rules are designed to prevent nutrient pollution from reaching our canals, rivers and the ocean, protecting local wildlife and water quality.
What You Need to Know:
From June 1 through Sept. 30, fertilizers containing nitrogen and/or phosphorus cannot be applied to turf or landscape plants during these specific times:
- When a weather alert is active: This includes any flood watch or warning, tropical storm watch or warning, or hurricane watch or warning issued by the National Weather Service for any part of Volusia County.
- During or after heavy rain: If heavy rain is likely (meaning two inches or more within a 24-hour period), hold off on fertilizing.
- On saturated soil: This means if there's standing water on your lawn, or if pressing on the soil releases water, your soil is too wet for fertilizer.
*You may use nitrogen outside of the blackout period only if 50% of the total nitrogen is slow-release nitrogen.
ALSO, DO NOT APPLY WITHIN 15 FEET OF ANY WATER BODY!
Why These Rules Matter:
When fertilizers are applied during these prohibited periods, especially to wet or saturated soils, the nutrients are easily washed away by rain into our stormwater drains and ultimately into our precious waterways. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus can fuel harmful algal blooms, reduce oxygen levels, and harm aquatic life. By following these guidelines, you're directly contributing to a healthier environment for everyone in Daytona Beach and helping to protect our unique coastal ecosystems. Thank you for doing your part to keep our waters clean and vibrant!