Fertilizers and pesticides used in lawns and gardens can be a significant source of water pollution. Over-use or misapplication of these chemicals will adversely impact water quality when they find their way into groundwater and surface water systems.
Fertilizers stimulate the growth of algae. When the algae die and decompose, this depletes the supply of oxygen for fish and other organisms, a process called “eutrophication”. Always test the pH of your soil before applying fertilizers to optimize uptake by plants and prevent leaching into groundwater.
Follow New Jersey's rules for fertilizer use or consider using non-polluting alternatives, such as compost and natural organic fertilizers. Try to apply best practices for pesticide use including: spot-treating problem areas, using biological pest control such as beneficial insects, and plant companion plants such as marigolds. For more information, visit the [Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station].