Report shows lack of Floridian public awareness around fertilizer

A newly published University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences report reveals significant knowledge gaps about fertilizer among Floridians who use it to care for their residential lawns.

Thirty-five counties and 97 additional municipalities in the state have fertilizer ordinances, but 60.6% of people surveyed by UF/IFAS Center for Public Issues Education researchers did not know whether they lived in an area governed by an ordinance, according to the report. 

Supported by funding from the Florida Legislature, the PIE Center and the UF/IFAS Center for Land Use Efficiency have launched a public awareness campaign to educate Floridians about proper lawn fertilization practices. Researchers will present survey results from the PIE Center report and strategies for improving public education during a free April 7 webinar geared toward landscape professionals, educators, policymakers and the public. Supporting materials are available through an online toolkit.

Researchers conducted an online survey of 929 adult residents from across the state to understand current behaviors, attitudes and awareness related to fertilizer use. All participants had fertilized lawns, whether they personally cared for them or had someone else do so. Most used products that simultaneously supported turf growth and combated weeds.

More than half of respondents indicated they fertilized their lawn regularly. Most gauged how much fertilizer to apply by either reading package instructions or by relying on landscapers. Nearly two-thirds had not had their soil tested in the last 12 months, and an additional 19.6% were unsure. 

Although 82.9% of respondents ranked universities as their most trusted source of information about fertilizer, 75.5% indicated they have never visited their county Extension office. For its part, UF/IFAS offers free guidance on a range of topics, including lawn fertilization.

When respondents were asked about sources they would likely consult to learn more about fertilizer, online videos, printed materials and television ranked highest among the options. 

The research team considered respondents’ willingness to learn more about residential fertilizer use and ordinances an encouraging sign. 

“Despite lacking awareness, most respondents had positive views on residential fertilizer ordinances and future implementation,” according to the report. “Subject matter experts, policy makers and community leaders have an opportunity to utilize these findings to better inform the public on fertilizer policy and recommendations.”