Tips and Tricks -

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Use slow-release fertilisers

Use slow-release fertilisers, including composted organic fertilisers, which are less likely to move into water. Be sure to measure and apply them according to label directions.
Check the weather forecast

Always check the weather forecast prior to rain to ensure your hard work doesn't go down the drain! Rain washes fertiliser through sandy soils past the root zone, and also into stormwater drains where it eventually ends up in our waterways. So hold off when there's rain around.
Fertiliser: Hold off before rain

Hold off on the fertiliser when there's rain around. Always check the weather forecast prior to rain to ensure your hard work doesn't go down the drain! Rain washes fertiliser through sandy soils past the root zone, and also into stormwater drains where it eventually ends up in our waterways.
Apply a wetting agent

Wetting agents may assist in overcoming hydrophobic conditions in soils by reducing the surface tension of water, and improving the infiltration rate into the soil. In other words, they reduce the water repellency of your soil. Apply in winter and spring so you're ready for summer!
Fertiliser: Hold off in winter

Is the grass really greener if all the blue swimmer crabs are gone? Hold off on the fertiliser in winter as it can easily run off from your property and into stormwater drains, rivers and estuaries.
Pick Up Pet Waste

Compost or throw dog (and cat) poo in the bin. Pet waste contains nutrients and bacteria that can wash into local waterways if left on the ground to decay.
Reduce Pollutant Runoff

Spread mulch over bare ground to prevent soil erosion and stop the flow of pollutant runoff from your lawn & garden into local waterways.
Fertiliser: Less is better

Use only the amount of lawn fertiliser you need. Twice the fertiliser won't make your lawn twice as green!
Test Your Soil before applying fertiliser

Knowing your soil pH and what nutrients are in your soil can save you time and money and help protect our estuaries, bay and rivers.
Wash your car on the lawn

Wash your car on the lawn rather than the driveway or road. Car wash detergents often contain phosphorous, which can add to the nutrient load in our waterways and estuaries which contribute to noxious algal blooms. Use Phosphorus Free (P-Free or NP) environmentally-friendly detergent.
Plant a native garden

Native plants require less water, less fertiliser and less work. More time for waterway fun!
Add compost

Add compost or soil conditioner to your lawns and gardens to increase water and nutrient retention. You can make your own compost at home with lawn clippings and food waste.