Yard

Grass ClippingsFertilizer and Pesticides contain chemicals that are harmful to aquatic life and can cause problems for people. When these wash off of your lawn they can go directly down a storm drain and to our local waterways.

Tips

  • Avoid using chemical pesticides when possible.
  • Communicate with your lawn care service about implementing these pollution prevention methods.
  • Do not over water after fertilizing. Do not fertilize before a rain. This will cause fertilizer runoff into the storm drain causing pollution and wasting your money.
  • Encourage and protect helpful bugs, such as ladybugs or praying mantis.
  • Fertilizer and pesticides should be disposed at the Dallas County Home Chemical Collection Center.
  • It is prohibited by City Ordinance to blow, sweep, hose or rake clippings or leaves onto the street. This is important since yard waste that gets into our storm drains and waterways can cause problems such as depleting oxygen in the water.
  • Lawns are typically fertilized too frequently. Have your soil tested to determine the proper amount of fertilizer needed.
  • Leave grass clippings on your lawn, they act as a natural fertilizer.
  • To help prevent thatch, cut no more than 1/3 of grass blades.
  • Use organic or slow-release fertilizers. It is important to follow package instructions. More is not better.

Texas Smartscape

Texas Smartscape is a program developed for North Texas to provide homeowners information regarding plants that require less water and fertilizers for this region. More Information can be found online at Texas Smartscape Landscape.