Will Lawn Fertilizer Kill Birds?

Toxins

• Birds are often injured or killed by the use of pesticides and insecticides. The chemicals known to kill birds include malathion and carbaryl, both of which are found in many fertilizer products.

Alternatives

• There are alternatives to using toxic fertilizers in the lawn. Consider amending the soil with corn gluten meal to feed the roots and prevent weeds. Follow the directions carefully. Corn gluten meal contains nitrogen and too much nitrogen can damage the lawn. Pull weeds from the root when they are noticed. Eliminate the need for weed killers and fertilizers naturally by spreading well-composted materials over the lawn and raking it in or use natural organic fertilizers found prepackaged in garden centers.

Summary

• Gardeners can still have a healthy lawn without the need for synthetic fertilizers that hurt birds and other wildlife. Lawns can be maintained organically.