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9. Avoid synthetic, quick release fertilizers escriotion Synthetic, quick release fertilizers frequently wash through the soil before they are even taken up by the plants. They can also damage soil microbial populations or cause a flush of tender new plant growth that is very attractive to sucking insects. Furthermore, many well-chosen California native plants thrive without fertilizers. Most other plants do not need the quick release fertilizers that are often applied on a scheduled basis. Plant nutrient requirements can be met with compost, naturally derived fertilizers or slow- release synthetic fertilizers as a last resort. ^ Kick the chemical habit: base feedings on a soil analysis or other clear indications of need, not on a calendar. ^ Use compost to establish benefcial soil organisms and release nutrients over the long term. ^ Sow nitrogen fixing or deep rooted cover crops, then till them in before they go to seed. ^ Use blood and bone meal, fishmeal or kelp, examples of naturally derived fertilizers that release nutrients in a I - 4 month time frame. ^ Use synthetic fertilizers as a last resort and select fertilizers that contain 30% or more of the nitrogen in slow release form. ^ Do not use weed and feed formulations. ^ Do not fertilize within 25 feet of the water's edge. Slow release fertilizers make nutrients available to the plants when they are needed, and are therefore often a better value. Flushes of growth that result in pest infestations or plant waste are less likely Avoiding synthetic fertilizers can also reduce the likelihood of soil compaction, acidifcation and thatch build-up in lawns. 10. Minimize the use of chemical pesticides Many pesticides are toxic to microbes and other soil dwelling creatures such as earthworms.These toxins can reduce the diversity of soil life, select for resistant organisms or even increase soil pathogen density. least toxic alternative. Refer to the description of Integrated Pest Management in the section Protecting Water and Air Quality and visit the websites: www.ipm.ucdavis.edu or www.birc.orQ or www.ourwaterourworld.orQ. Learn and offer integrated pest management to your clients. If pesticides are absolutely necessary choose the Minimizing pesticides reduces water pollution and helps support soil life, which cycles nutrients and promotes resistance to plant disease. Your costs may then be reduced in the long run. ~ The Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is... a great resource for fnding environmentally friendly materials and products. OMRI is a national, nonprofit organization that identifies generic materials that are allowed or prohibited for use in organic crop production, including soil amendments (such as compost), fertilizers and other materials, such as acetic acid, for cleaning drip irrigation. Many of these generic materials are relevant to landscapes. OMRI also maintains a second list of products, which is a 3rd party rating of specific brand name products that meet the National Organic Standards or those that can be used with restrictions. You can purchase the general materials or products listings, or download the product catalog, or subscribe to OMRI, at www.omri.ore. Sample Contract Specifications for Nurturing Soil Health: I. Initial soil analysis shall be performed to determine drainage and nutrient status and shall be repeated annually during the transition to Bay-Friendly landscape, when planning a renovation, or when experiencing ongoing problems. 2. A soil probe shall be used at every visit to assess water content. 3. Leaf drop shall become part of the mulch layer in the tree, shrub or groundcover areas, in an attractive manner and away from high traffic areas. Leaf drop shall not be allowed to enter the stormdrain. 4. Mulch shall be maintained under all trees and shrubs and on bare soil with a minimum 3-inch layer of organic material. To the greatest extent practicable, [company name] shall not procure mulch products that originate from forest products. When possible, [company name] shall give preference to mulch products that are produced on-site or from regionally generated plant debris. 5. Fertilizing shall be done on an as needed basis, as indicated by a soil analysis or other clear indications of need, not on a calendar basis. Naturally derived and/or slow release fertilizers are preferred. ADAPTED FROM: L4NOSCAPE MAINTENANCE PRACTICE FOR WATER AND GREEN WASTE EFFICIENCY, MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT OF ORANGE COUNTY. b w.^ w.~ w y 33