Nutrient Management Recommendations for Commercially Managed Turfgrass

MDA regulates individuals and companies that apply fertilizer to 10 or more acres of non-agricultural land, including private lawns and landscapes managed by commercial service companies, highway rights-of-ways, golf courses, athletic fields, state property, school campuses and recreational areas. Urban land managers are required to take soil tests for each client or management area, follow University of Maryland Extension fertilizer and timing recommendations and keep records of fertilizer applications. MDA reviews the records of these urban land managers to ensure compliance and is authorized to impose fines for violations.

Major differences exist between the goals and practices of general agriculture, including turfgrass sod production, and professionally managed turfgrass in the urban landscape.  The information on this page serves as a guideline for managing sites in an efficient, effective, and environmentally sound manner.

Beginning October 1, 2013, all lawn care professionals will need to be certified by MDA in order to apply lawn fertilizer in Maryland. In addition, they will need to follow new fertilizer application restrictions and blackout dates.  The rules apply to professionals for hire as well as individuals responsible for turf management at golf courses, public parks, airports, athletic fields, businesses, cemeteries and other non-agricultural properties.  For more information on Maryland’s new Lawn Fertilizer Law, click here.