Fertilizer: Turf Fertilizer

Soil Testing Requirements

Turf Fertilizer Restrictions on Use, Sale and Display and Soil Testing Requirements
Beginning April 1, 2010, fertilizer that is labeled as containing phosphorus or available phosphate cannot be applied to lawns or turf in Wisconsin unless the fertilizer application qualifies under certain exemptions.

Background
The rule was signed into law by Governor Doyle in April 2009 and the bill, 2009 Wisconsin Act 9 modified Chapter 94, Wisconsin Statutes. The intent of the law is to provide protection to Wisconsin’s lakes, rivers, streams and other water resources from phosphorus run-off.

Rule Exemptions
Fertilizer that is labeled as containing phosphorus or available phosphate can be used if the soil is an area is deficient in phosphorus, as shown by a soil test performed no more 36 months (three years) before the fertilizer is applied. The soil test must be performed by a soil testing laboratory.

Soil Testing Laboratories
The following information on soil testing laboratories is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as an endorsement by DATCP. There may be private laboratories available as well. If you choose to work with a private laboratory, verify that the lab is able to analyze soil samples for phosphorus.

• University of Wisconsin – labs located in Madison and Marshfield

Soil & Plant Analysis Lab – Madison
8452 Mineral Point Road
Verona, WI 53593-8696
Phone: (608) 262-4364
Fax: (608) 833-1277
Web site: http://uwlab.soils.wisc.edu/

UW Soil & Forage Analysis Laboratory
2611 East 29th St.
Marshfield, WI 54449
Phone: (715) 387-2523
Fax: (715) 387-1723
Website http://uwlab.dyndns.org/marshfield/

For more information on the restrictions on phosphorus containing fertilizer, contact Charlene Khazae 608-224-4541