New York State Law “Garden Law” Stops Homeowners From Using This

Did you know that you are not allowed to use this in your gardens or laws in New York State and it is very important that you check you are not buying it accidentally.

There are certain fertilizers that New York State absolutely bans and they have their reasoning.

It is called the NYS Nutrient Runoff Law. According to the New York State website, here is what you are not to do.

Do not:

• Use lawn fertilizer that contains phosphorus unless you are establishing a new lawn, or a soil test shows that your lawn does not have enough phosphorus.
• Apply any lawn fertilizer December 1 - April 1.
• Apply fertilizer on sidewalks, driveways or other impervious surfaces. If fertilizer spills onto these surfaces, you MUST sweep it up to prevent it from washing into drains or waterways. Do not hose if off.

You CANNOT use any fertilizer of any kind that if you are putting it within 20 foot of water.

There is an exception to this New York State rule, though. If you have a 'wall' of shrubs 10 foot from the water, than you can use the fertilizer.

The stores have a strict rule that they need to follow from New York State.

Retailers who sell fertilizer must display phosphorus-containing fertilizer separately from phosphorus-free fertilizers and post a sign near the display. A sample sign is available in the "Important Links" section on the right-hand side of this page.