Safe Fertilizer and Weed Control for Well Water Protection

Protecting Your Deep Well While Maintaining a Healthy Lawn

With a 420-foot well and septic system, fertilizer and herbicide choices matter. The good news: most standard lawn fertilizers (Scotts, Vigoro, Ringer, Milorganite) are safe when applied correctly at recommended rates, 3-5 times annually.

Fertilizer Guidelines

• Follow label directions precisely – never exceed recommended rates.
• Limit weed control products; spot-treat only when necessary.
• Deep wells (420+ feet) provide significant natural filtration, reducing contamination risk from proper applications.

Poison Ivy Control

For poison ivy, use glyphosate (Roundup) applied directly to foliage per label instructions. Purchase from a local garden center where staff can demonstrate proper mixing and application techniques. Avoid broadcast spraying; targeted treatment minimizes chemical use.

Best Practices

Maintain a buffer zone around wellheads. Consider organic alternatives like corn gluten meal for pre-emergent weed control. Regular soil testing ensures you apply only what your lawn needs, protecting both groundwater and your wallet.