N.Y. to Limit Phosphorus Use in Fertilizer

New York state lawmakers recently passed legislation that strictly limits the use of phosphorus in fertilizer. If the governor signs the bill, the new law would limit phosphorus in lawn fertilizer to two-thirds of 1%. Currently, lawn fertilizers can contain up to 5% or 10% phosphorus.

State officials cite studies listing phosphorus as one of New York's most harmful pollutants.

Under the regulation, higher-phosphorus products could still be sold, but retailers would have to post signs saying they're for use only on new lawns or those where soil tests show the need for extra phosphorus.