Fertilizer Black Out For Lee County Residents
Today, we want to talk to our Lee County residents about an important issue that affects their lawns: the fertilizer black-out period.
If you are not familiar with the term, the fertilizer black-out period refers to a time of the year when the use of fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus is prohibited in some areas. This period usually lasts from June 1st to September 30th, coinciding with the rainy season in Florida.

Why is this important?
Well, the main reason is that the nutrients in the fertilizers can run off into nearby water bodies, such as lakes, rivers, and estuaries, causing pollution and harming aquatic life. This is especially a concern in South Florida, where we have delicate ecosystems and vulnerable water resources.
That’s why Lee County has implemented a fertilizer ordinance that regulates the use of fertilizers in the area. This ordinance aims to reduce the amount of nutrients that enter the water bodies and promote the use of best management practices in lawn care.
So, what does this mean for you, as a Lee County resident? Here are some of the key points you should be aware of:
- The black-out period for fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus is from June 1st to September 30th.
- During this period, you cannot use fertilizers containing nitrogen and phosphorus on your lawn or landscape.
- You can still use fertilizers containing other nutrients, such as potassium, as well as organic fertilizers.
- If you hire a lawn care company, make sure they are compliant with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and follow the best management practices outlined in the ordinance.
- If you live near a water body, you need to be extra careful with your lawn care practices to prevent the nutrients from running off into the water. This includes avoiding over-fertilizing, using low-phosphorus fertilizers, and watering your lawn properly.
At Estate Landscaping, we take the health of your lawn and the environment seriously. That’s why we follow the Lee County fertilizer ordinance and use best management practices in all our services. We also offer organic lawn care options that are safe for the environment and effective in promoting the health of your lawn.

If you have any questions about the fertilizer black-out period or want to learn more about our lawn care services, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy lawn while protecting our precious water resources.
For more information on how Estate Landscaping can take care of your landscaping needs, give us a call at (239) 498-1187, or send us an email at info@estatelandscaping.com.
Receive a Free Consultation!
Related Posts
Start The New Year Fresh
Here we are again. Another year of managing your landscape, and providing much-needed maintenance. If you are a property manager or homeowner you have to ensure that your property is in the best position possible to attract clientele or a potential buyer. It goes without saying that a big part of this process is ensuring […]
Managing Excessive Rainfall: How to Protect Your Landscape from Heavy Downpours
Living in Southwest Florida means we’re no strangers to heavy rain, especially during the wet season. While rain is vital for a thriving landscape, too much of it can spell trouble. Excessive rainfall can overwhelm even the most meticulously planned landscapes, causing erosion, flooding, and plant diseases. So, how can you protect your property from […]
WEEDS: Early Detection and Prevention Make All The Difference
Weeds are not attractive in turf and they are costly to fix. Early detection and proactive management to remediate and prevent future Infiltrations are sound landscape procedures. The first step is to recognize the infiltration in its early stages. And if you are working with the right landscape contractor they should be doing this for […]
