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Does Your Lawn Really Need Phosphorus Fertilizer?

Did you know that most soils in the Omaha metropolitan area are high in phosphorus? A high percentage of the soil tests on lawns received by the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension Office in Douglas/Sarpy Counties shows that additional phosphorus is not needed on established lawns. Applying unneeded phosphorus to a lawn is a waste of money and can be harmful to Omaha metro lakes and creeks. Excess phosphorus applied to lawns can be carried off by overwatering lawns or rainfall and deposited into Omaha lakes and creeks. Problems also arise when fertilizer is spilt or misapplied onto driveways, sidewalks and streets. Phosphorus entering lakes can trigger algae blooms. Excessive algae growth reduces water clarity, clogs boat propellers, and interferes with fishing and other recreational uses.

The best way to determine the phosphorus level in your soil is to take a soil sample. The sample can be tested by local laboratories or sent to the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. The cost is approximately $11 plus postage for testing at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. For more information on soil testing, contact the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension Office in Douglas/Sarpy Counties, 8015 West Center Road, or call 444-7804.

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