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Do not over-use or over-dose lawn
chemicals. There are many natural products on the market
that are very effective and wont pollute our water.
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If insecticides (bug killers) and herbicides (weed
killers) are necessary, spot treat problem areas. DO
NOT APPLY THEM TO YOUR ENTIRE LAWN.
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Stop using weed and feed
products. Try overseeding with low maintenance mixes
of fescues and rye grasses to outcompete weeds.
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Be careful not to get pesticides
or fertilizer on the driveway or sidewalk because they will easily be
washed down a storm drain the next time it rains.
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Do not put anything on your lawn before it is predicted to rain.
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Do a soil test before
applying any fertilizer to your lawn. Free soil test
kits are available from local
soil and water conservation districts and
county extension offices.
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Use slow-release
fertilizers, which are better for your lawn and for the environment.
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Lawns need less than an inch of
water per week. Try using a rain gauge. That way you'll know
that if it has rained an inch, you do not need to water your lawn.
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Compost yard waste. Don't leave
it in the street or sweep it into storm drains or streams.
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Learn how to YardScape by visiting these sites:
Maine YardScaping
Partnership
Cumberland County Soil & Water Conservation District
