Florida summers are known for their sunshine, heat, and frequent rainstorms. But for homeowners who take pride in a lush, green lawn, there’s something else to keep in mind this time of year: fertilizer bans. If you’re unfamiliar with these seasonal restrictions or unsure how to keep your yard healthy during this period, you’re not alone. At Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control, we help Florida homeowners navigate these regulations—so you don’t have to. Let’s break down what the Florida fertilizer ban is, why it matters, and what you can do to keep your yard looking its best this summer.
What Is the Florida Fertilizer Ban?
From June 1st through September 30th, many Florida counties implement strict regulations or outright bans on applying certain fertilizers. These seasonal rules are designed to reduce nutrient runoff into waterways—especially nitrogen and phosphorus—during the state’s rainy season.
When it rains heavily, fertilizers applied to lawns and gardens can wash into storm drains and nearby bodies of water. This runoff contributes to algal blooms, fish kills, and overall water pollution in rivers, lakes, and the Gulf. To protect Florida’s fragile ecosystems, counties enforce these bans to curb excess nutrient loading during the wettest part of the year.
Counties with Summer Fertilizer Bans
Not all Florida counties follow the same rules. However, some of the most populated and environmentally sensitive areas have strict bans in place, including:
- Orange County
- Seminole County
- Hillsborough County
- Pinellas County
- Manatee County
- Lee County
- Sarasota County
- Miami-Dade County
Each local ordinance may differ in terms of start dates, prohibited ingredients, and exemptions. It’s essential to check with your local government to understand the rules in your area. Or, better yet, work with a licensed professional like Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control—we stay on top of all regulations so you don’t have to.
What Fertilizers Are Banned?
Most bans prohibit the use of fertilizers containing nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) during the summer rainy season. These are the same nutrients responsible for encouraging leaf and root growth, making them a key part of most standard lawn fertilizers.
What is often still allowed includes:
- Fertilizers with potassium (K) only
- Soil amendments like iron or magnesium for greening
- Slow-release or controlled-release products (in some counties)
However, even these exceptions can come with limitations. Violating fertilizer ordinances can result in fines and contribute to long-term damage to Florida’s water systems.
The Environmental Impact of Improper Fertilizer Use
Florida’s lakes, rivers, and coastal waters are highly sensitive to nutrient pollution. When fertilizers run off into these ecosystems, it can trigger:
- Harmful algal blooms (like red tide)
- Decreased oxygen levels in water, harming marine life
- Contamination of drinking water sources
- Economic damage to fishing and tourism industries
Fertilizer restrictions aren’t about making lawn care harder—they’re about protecting the environment for current and future generations. That’s why compliance isn’t optional, and being proactive matters.
So, How Do You Keep Your Lawn Healthy During the Ban?
The good news: it’s absolutely possible to maintain a vibrant lawn without breaking the rules. It just takes a little strategy—and the right team.
Here are some best practices we follow at Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control:
1. Focus on Soil Health
Healthy soil equals healthy turf. Before the ban period begins, we test your soil’s nutrient content and pH levels to ensure it’s in peak condition. Amending the soil with organic matter or compost helps improve water retention and nutrient availability naturally.
2. Time Your Fertilizing Smartly
We front-load key fertilization treatments in late spring (April to May) so that your lawn has the nutrients it needs to thrive before the summer ban kicks in. With the right timing and slow-release formulas, your lawn stays fed throughout the ban period.
3. Use Ban-Compliant Supplements
During the summer, we use potassium-rich and micronutrient products that enhance your lawn’s color and stress tolerance without violating county rules.
4. Improve Watering and Mowing Practices
Proper mowing height (usually 3–4 inches for most Florida grasses) and consistent, efficient watering help grass develop deep roots and resist heat stress. Our team offers irrigation service.
5. Stay Ahead of Weeds and Pests
When fertilizer is off the table, weeds and pests can quickly take over. We offer safe, eco-friendly pest control and weed management programs designed to work alongside fertilizer restrictions.
Why Professional Lawn Care Is the Best Solution During Fertilizer Bans
Managing lawn health during a fertilizer ban isn’t just about swapping products—it’s about understanding soil science, regional regulations, and seasonal lawn care techniques. That’s where our certified technicians at Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control come in.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Locally Based & Family-Owned: We understand Florida’s unique climate and county-specific regulations because we live and work here, too.
- Science-Backed Programs: Our lawn care programs are developed with the latest environmental research and turf science.
- Regulatory Compliance: We stay current on all fertilizer ordinances so you don’t accidentally violate local laws.
- Eco-Friendly Solutions: We prioritize eco-friendly solutions.
Hiring a trusted lawn care partner means peace of mind. You don’t need to become an expert in fertilizer laws or worry about what’s safe to apply. We take care of everything—safely, legally, and with exceptional results.
Don’t Let the Fertilizer Ban Ruin Your Summer Curb Appeal
Just because fertilizer is restricted doesn’t mean your lawn has to suffer. With the right preparation, compliant care, and expert oversight, your grass can stay green, thick, and healthy all summer long.
If you’re unsure how the ban applies to your property—or you simply don’t have time to manage it yourself—Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control is here to help. Our team has decades of experience working in Central and South Florida communities, and we know exactly how to protect and nourish your lawn while staying fully compliant.
Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control
Evergreen Lawn & Pest Control offers full-service solutions for your lawn, pest, termite, and insulation needs, making us your one-stop shop for a healthy and pest-free environment. We serve Central and South Florida including Apopka, Oakland Park and surrounding Florida homes.
