The benefits of proper fertilization of lakes and ponds is well documented. Not only does the addition of fertilizer increase the ability of your lake to produce food for top-end game fish, but it should a part of every serious lake management program. Although application rates will vary by region, there are some general guidelines that can help you quantify your fertilizer rate.
All fertilizers are labeled with N-P-K ratios or percents of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The equivalent of 8 pounds of granular fertilizer is 4 pounds of liquid-phosphorous fertilizer per acre per application is commonly recommended. Liquid fertilizers can be easier to apply and may produce blooms quicker than granular fertilizers. Below are some commonly available fertilizers and the appropriate application rates:
Granular
- 20-20-5 40 pounds per acre
- 16-20-5 40 pounds per acre
- 18-46-0 18 pounds per acre
- 0-46-0 18 pounds per acre
Liquid
- 13-38-0 1 gallon per acre
- 10-34-0 1 gallon per acre