Fertilizer Safety in Summer: Protecting People, Pets, and Plants

Fertilizing during the summer months can lead to lush lawns and vibrant gardens—but it also comes with risks if not done properly. High temperatures, sun exposure, and increased outdoor activity mean that fertilizer safety becomes even more important for families, pets, and the environment.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through essential safety tips for handling and applying fertilizer in summer, explain the dos and don’ts of product use, and show you how to protect everything from your turf to your pets. All advice and product references are backed by the experts at Supply Solutions LLC.

Why Fertilizer Safety is Crucial in Summer

• High temperatures amplify burn risk on lawns and plants
• Increased outdoor use puts kids and pets in direct contact with fertilizers
• Over-application during dry weather can lead to runoff and pollution
• Accidental exposure can cause health issues or environmental damage

Common Summer Fertilizer Hazards

Hazard	Risk
Overapplication	Lawn burn, root damage
Improper timing	Ineffective use, runoff, waste
Pet exposure	Vomiting, skin irritation, poisoning
Storage in heat	Product degradation, fire hazard (especially nitrates)

Fertilizer Types and Their Safety Profiles

1. Ammonium Sulfate 21-0-0-24S

• Safe when watered in properly
• Avoid using during peak heat to reduce burn risk

2. 10-10-10 Liquid Fertilizer with Micronutrients

• Safer than granular during heatwaves
• Keep pets off treated areas until dry

3. 12-6-6 Ornamental Blend

• Low risk when diluted correctly
• Apply with protective gloves and rinse off accidental skin contact

4. Calcium Nitrate 15.5-0-0

• Store in a cool, dry place to prevent degradation or clumping
• Do not mix with incompatible chemicals

Safe Handling and Storage Tips

• Always wear gloves and eye protection when mixing or applying fertilizer
• Keep pets and children indoors during and after application
• Store fertilizers in original containers, sealed and away from sunlight or moisture
• Never store fertilizers near gasoline, herbicides, or open flame
• Label spray bottles clearly if repackaging liquids

Best Practices for Safe Application

• Apply early morning or evening to avoid volatilization and heat stress
• Water in granular products thoroughly after application
• Never apply to dry or drought-stressed lawns
• Always follow label rates—more is not better

Environmental Considerations

• Avoid fertilizing before rainstorms to reduce runoff
• Don’t fertilize near water features, storm drains, or bare soil
• Sweep fertilizer off sidewalks and driveways back onto the lawn

Protecting Pets and Wildlife

• Let fertilizer dry completely before allowing pets onto treated areas
• Use pet-safe alternatives or organic options if concerned
• Watch for signs of exposure: drooling, vomiting, paw irritation

Final Thoughts

A lush landscape is great—but not at the expense of your safety, your pets’ health, or the environment. Practicing smart fertilizer use in the summer ensures you get the benefits of growth while minimizing the risks.

Need help selecting the safest and most effective fertilizer products for your summer needs?

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Let Supply Solutions LLC help you grow responsibly all summer long.