Every year, licensed contractors are required to attend classes to renew their Maryland Department of Agriculture certification. Over the past 40 years, I have attended and taught classes for the Maryland Department of Agriculture certification program. Lecture topics ranged from insect problems in our metro area to fertilization recommendations to pond maintenance.
One of the important topics I want to bring you up to date on is the current fertilization guidelines. By practicing good environmental stewardship, we can reduce fertilizer runoff into our creeks, rivers, and Chesapeake Bay. The permitted nitrogen levels applied to lawn areas are reduced to (1) pound of nitrogen per 1000 sq ft, per year. Previously,(3) pounds of nitrogen per 1000 sq ft of lawn were recommended by the UMD. Early fall is the best time of year to feed turf grass. Fertilizing is not allowed from November to February. This reduction in fertilizer application reduces algal blooms, which are also detrimental to our waterways. For residents who live on our waterways and fishermen, large fish kills due to these deadly algae blooms. Some blooms are naturally caused by nature, like a “perfect” storm, while others are caused by humans.
Why Use a Licensed and Maryland Department of Agriculture Certified Contractor?
Using licensed and MDA-certified landscaping contractors is very important. Homeowners need to know that the contractor they are hiring not only has the required license(s) and skills but is also up to date on state guidelines, important agricultural issues, and the deadly effects they can have on their property and our environment. These guidelines are not only at the state level but can be even stricter at the county and city levels. Additionally, by being licensed, they are also required to be insured. Ask for a certificate of insurance from any contractor before they begin work on your property.
Below is a picture of Wade Pryor, owner of Pryor’s Nursery—Home of the Living Fence—teaching re-certification classes many years ago. Back then, they used a greenhouse as the classroom! Call 301-253-4706 or email us if you have questions regarding the living fence or evergreens for privacy.
Don’t forget to stop by and see us at the Maryland Home & Garden Show!
