Be smart with your fertilizer
By JOAN CROTHERS Sentinel Editor

Summer is gardening time when vegetable and flower gardens are started. Everyone loves to see their plants growing well...even abundantly!

Fertilizer is an aid to good growth, but too little or too much can make your plants suffer. And nutrients they don't use will wash into groundwater, streams and then the lake. This is one of the big problems outlined in the five-year study of Lake Chatuge, just completed by the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition. Director Callie Moore said that the fertilizer companies want to sell their product so she feels their amounts are a little high. Cutting down not only saves in your pocketbook, but also helps to save the lake from that polution source.

One recommendation is to test your soil before you fertilize. Taking a sample is easy, just call the local UGA Extension Service office at 706-896-2024. Results will recommend the type and grade of fertilizer your specific site needs.

Other ways to reduce fertilizer waste, saving you money and time, .avoid accidentally spraying or scattering fertilizers onto sidewalks, driveways, streets or other impervious surfaces. This leads to waste and wash off into the lake; .turn off sprinklers when it's raining so excessive runoff from your lawn, garden doesn't take nutrients away from your plants, again into the lake; .compost your leaves and grass clipping, decreasing the need for added fertilizers; .use slow-release fertilizers; .apply fertilizers during proper seasons so you're not feeding weeds; .never apply fertilizers right before or during rain, or on a windy day; .store all lawn chemicals in covered, secure areas away from rain, excessive cold and heat, and animals and children.

The very best way to save money on fertilizer is to have a natural yard with no lawn at all. You have an abundance of native plants indigenous to this area that have low-water, fertilizer and pesticide needs. Include lots of trees that will give you pine needles and leaves for mulch. No lawn mower or gas expense and think of the extra time you'll have!

Native plants reduce longterm maintenance costs because they are hardier and thrive with little pampering. Because many native plants are on the endangered list, by using them you can help preserve these plants in your yard and many provide food and shelter for native wildlife.