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Feritilizer Application

CSU Extension advises that most established Colorado lawns will have adequate phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) in the soil without additional P and K fertilizer. If you apply a typical blended fertilizer based on N needs, you will usually apply more P and K than most lawns require. 

Guide on reading a fertilizer label: 12-0-10 indicates 12% Nitrogen, 0% Phosphorus, 10% Potassium. Choose fertilizers with a "0" in the middle!
How to read a fertilizer label

The Cherry Creek Basin Water Quality Authority and its partners ae actively working to reduce phosphorus loading to the Cherry Creek Reservoir and request that you choose phosphorus-free fertilizer. 

For more information from CSU Extension, see: 

Homeowner's Guide to Fertilizing Your Lawn and Garden (XCM-223)

Homeowner's Guide to Protecting Water Quality and the Environment (XCM-223) 

Other resources include: 

Phosphorus Free Fertilizer Q&A (lovecoloradowater.org)