ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION SERIES
Agriculture & Natural Resources
EXTENSION ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION, AUBURN UNIVERSITY, AL 36849-5647
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ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION SERIES Agriculture & Natural Resources |
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EXTENSION ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION, AUBURN UNIVERSITY, AL 36849-5647 | |
| The proper use of manures and fertilizers is essential in maintaining urban landscapes in Alabama. Soil testing is one tool that has been emphasized for decades as essential to safe and economical fertilizer use. Today, it is still essential. In fact, where nutrient recommendations are followed within reasonable guidelines of soil testing and other best management practices are followed, there has been no indication of excessive nutrients entering surface groundwaters. Fertilizers and manure can, in fact, help improve our environment by enhancing productivity and fertilizer efficiency on our urban landscapes.
Soil Testing For The Homeowner Homeowners and gardeners sent in more than one out of every four soil samples tested by Auburn University's Soil Testing Laboratory last year. Over 70 percent of the backyard garden samples were high, very high, or extremely high in phosphorus. Additional application of this nutrient, particularly at the very high and extremely high range, is not only wasteful, but could |
be environmentally damaging if the soil is not carefully protected from erosion. Nutrients are concentrated in an urban environment—nutrients from septic tanks, golf courses, lawns and gardens, city parks, and even pets. Some studies have shown that streams flowing through urban areas pick up nitrogen and phosphorus and lose them in rural areas. Because of this, suburban homeowners, gardeners, and those who manage public grounds need to rely on soil testing more closely to manage nutrient applications to the soil.
Alabama's soils are naturally acid and infertile. In order to grow the plants which are in demand for food, fiber, and forages, we must fertilize and lime. Otherwise, we have to be content growing pine trees and oaks. Research has even shown that our forests can be improved with fertilization. However, it is important that we use fertilizers properly, which means testing our soil and following soil test recommendations. This proper use of nutrients gives us green lawns for recreation and play; beautiful parks and gardens; productive ponds and lakes for fishing; a profitable and sustainable agriculture; and a green, clean, healthy environment. |
Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work in agriculture and home economics, Acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, and other related acts, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System (Alabama A&M University and Auburn University) offers educational programs, materials, and equal opportunity employment to all people without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, veteran status, or disability.
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