Plainville Fertilizing Lawn Services

Our Fertilizing Lawn Process

Contact Plainville’s Department of Public Works for Fertilizer Container Disposal & Municipal Composting Programs

Proper disposal of fertilizer containers and participation in municipal composting are essential for environmental protection in Plainville. Residents should utilize household hazardous waste events, typically held 2–4 times annually, for liquid fertilizer containers after performing a triple-rinse procedure. Plastic fertilizer bags may be accepted through municipal recycling—always check local guidelines. Biodegradable paper packaging can be placed in yard waste collection (April–November). Finished compost, with a typical N-P-K of 1-1-1 to 2-2-2, is available through bulk delivery and seasonal distribution, supporting soil health and sustainability. In case of spills, immediately contain with absorbent materials, notify emergency services (911 for major spills), and contact the Plainville Department of Public Works
190 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
(508) 695-6871
Official Website: Plainville Department of Public Works . Never dispose of fertilizer in regular trash, storm drains, or streets; always store securely in original, labeled containers.

Professional Soil Testing & Nutrient Assessment Requirements for Plainville’s Glacial Till & Rocky Upland Soils

Soil testing is mandatory for responsible nutrient management in Plainville’s glacial till and rocky upland soils. The UMass Soil & Plant Nutrient Testing Lab provides comprehensive analysis, including pH (typically 5.5–6.5), organic matter (2–4%), and macro/micronutrients. Aim for a pH of 6.0–7.0 for cool-season grasses by applying dolomitic lime (50–100 lbs per 1,000 sq ft to raise pH one unit, effect in 6–12 months). Use the USDA Web Soil Survey to identify drainage and organic matter status. Develop a written nutrient plan based on test results, following UMass Extension recommendations (0.75–1.0 lb N per 1,000 sq ft per application, max 3–4 lbs N annually). Adjust for shade (reduce N by 25–30%), traffic, and compaction. For more information, consult the UMass Soil & Plant Nutrient Testing Lab
https://ag.umass.edu/services/soil-plant-nutrient-testing-laboratory .

Massachusetts Fertilizer Regulations & Professional Licensing Requirements for Plainville

Fertilizer use in Plainville is governed by Massachusetts General Laws and local ordinances, with special attention to phosphorus restrictions in watershed communities. Phosphorus is prohibited except for new lawns or documented deficiency (soil test <30 ppm). Nitrogen applications should not exceed 0.9–1.0 lb N per 1,000 sq ft per application. Commercial applicators must hold MA Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) Category 36 licenses, complete specialized training, and register their business with the town. Maintain detailed records of applications, rates, weather, and soil test results. Liability insurance (minimum $1M per occurrence) and environmental impairment coverage are recommended. For licensing and compliance, contact the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR)
https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-agricultural-resources .

Plainville Conservation Commission Requirements for Fertilizer Application Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

The Wetlands Protection Act (M.G.L. c. 131, § 40) requires permits or notification for fertilizer applications within 25–100 feet of wetlands or streams. No-fertilizer buffer strips are mandatory, and organic-only products are recommended in sensitive zones. Protect groundwater and surface water by preventing nutrient runoff, especially near public water supply wells. Use proper application techniques—avoid impervious surfaces, sweep granules back onto turf, and never hose into storm drains. Schedule applications with a minimum 24–48 hour rain-free window, using National Weather Service forecasts. For habitat protection, avoid combination products with insecticides during peak pollinator activity (May–September). For permitting and guidance, contact the Plainville Conservation Commission
152 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
(508) 576-8464
Official Website: Plainville Conservation Commission .

Seasonal Fertilization Calendar & Weather Timing for Plainville’s Climate Zone 6b

Plainville’s USDA Zone 6b climate requires careful timing of fertilizer applications:

• Early Spring (April–May, soil 50–55°F): Light application (0.5–0.7 lbs N/1,000 sq ft) as grass resumes growth
• Late Spring (late May–early June): Optional light application (0.5 lbs N) if needed
• Summer (July–August): Avoid applications during heat/drought stress
• Primary Fall (September): Most important, 0.9–1.0 lbs N/1,000 sq ft for root development
• Late Fall (October–November): Final application (0.7–0.9 lbs N/1,000 sq ft, slow-release) Coordinate with weather: apply when soil is moist (not saturated), soil temp >50°F, no rain >0.5 inch forecast in 24–48 hours, and wind <10 mph. Adjust for microclimates and shade (reduce N by 25–30%).

Water Quality Protection & Stormwater Management in Compliance with Plainville’s MS4 Program

Plainville’s MS4 permit, under MassDEP Stormwater Management Standards, requires best management practices (BMPs) to prevent nutrient runoff and protect local water bodies. Key practices include:

• Equipment calibration for uniform application
• Immediate cleanup of fertilizer from impervious surfaces
• Maintenance of buffer strips (10–25 feet from water bodies/storm drains)
• Secondary containment for mixing/loading at commercial sites Long-term benefits include reduced nutrient loading, improved soil health, and integration with green infrastructure (rain gardens, permeable pavement). Maintain records of application dates, rates, weather, and soil test documentation. For MS4 compliance, contact the Plainville Department of Public Works
  190 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
  (508) 695-6871
  Official Website: Plainville Department of Public Works .

Professional Application Standards, Equipment Calibration & Safety Protocols

Professional fertilizer application in Plainville requires MDAR Category 36 certification and adherence to technical standards:

• Annual equipment calibration (catch pan testing, pattern/rate verification)
• Overlapping passes (12–24 inches rotary, straight lines)
• Proper speed (3–4 mph rotary, 2–3 mph drop spreaders)
• PPE: safety glasses, dust masks/N95, chemical-resistant gloves, long sleeves/pants
• Daily equipment inspection and maintenance
• Emergency response: eye wash, MSDS/SDS on-site, emergency contacts
• Pre-application soil test verification (within 3 years)
• Post-application monitoring (turf response, runoff prevention) Ongoing education is available through UMass Extension workshops and industry conferences.

Integrated Nutrient Management & Organic Fertilizer Options for Plainville’s Acidic Soils

Sustainable nutrient management prioritizes cultural controls and organic options for Plainville’s acidic soils:

• Mow at 3–4 inches (Kentucky bluegrass), 3.5–4 inches (tall fescue)
• Grasscycling: mulch-mowing returns ~1 lb N/1,000 sq ft annually
• Core aeration: annual/biannual for compaction
• Overseeding with improved cultivars (25–30% less N needed)
• Use slow-release N (≥50% slow-release fraction)
• Organic fertilizers: compost (5-3-2), feather meal, blood meal, alfalfa, soybean meal
• Dolomitic lime: 50–100 lbs/1,000 sq ft to raise pH one unit
• Annual compost topdressing (1/4–1/2 inch)
• Mycorrhizal inoculation for improved phosphorus uptake These practices enhance soil health, reduce runoff, and support long-term sustainability.

Plainville Community Development Guidelines for Fertilizer Application & Public Safety Protection

The Plainville Planning & Development Department
152 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
(508) 576-8464
Official Website: Plainville Planning & Development Department oversees guidelines to protect public health and safety during fertilizer application. Requirements include advance public notification (signs posted 24–48 hours), compliance with re-entry intervals (24–48 hours for granular, until dry for liquids), and setbacks from wells (50–100 feet), playgrounds, and schools. Applications should be scheduled mid-week to minimize exposure to children and pets. Emergency contacts (poison control, 911) and SDS must be available on-site. Equipment must be decontaminated between properties, and storage must be secure, dry, and labeled. Community education is promoted through workshops and partnerships with UMass Extension.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Plainville, MA?

Plainville’s neighborhoods each present unique soil and environmental characteristics:

• Downtown/Center: Urban fill, moderate compaction, acidic pH (5.5–6.0), Kentucky bluegrass dominant, high aesthetic standards, some irrigation
• Everett Skinner Road Area: Glacial till, rocky soils, moderate drainage, perennial ryegrass/fine fescue mix, proximity to wetlands, organic preference increasing
• Sheldonville Road Vicinity: Marine clay, slow drainage, high compaction, tall fescue in renovations, buffer zones near streams, HOA restrictions
• Mirimichi Street Corridor: Shallow rocky soils, mature trees, shade (fine fescue), low-input trend, public water supply protection area
• South Street/Industrial Park: Urban fill, new developments, thin topsoil, establishment fertilization needs, Kentucky bluegrass/ryegrass mix, irrigation common
• Wampum Corner: Glacial till, moderate drainage, older landscapes, compaction, mature tree competition, organic matter below target
• Conservation Land Borders: Proximity to protected areas, organic-only recommendations, buffer enforcement, rare species habitats Each area requires tailored nutrient management, buffer compliance, and consideration of community standards.

Plainville Municipal Ordinances for Fertilizer Application Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Plainville’s ordinances regulate commercial fertilizer application to ensure safety and environmental compliance:

• Operating hours: 7:00 AM–9:00 PM weekdays, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM Saturdays (verify Sunday restrictions)
• Licensing: business license, MDAR Category 36, contractor registration, insurance (minimum $1M general liability, environmental impairment, workers’ comp), bonding for municipal contracts
• Safety: traffic control, work zone setup, equipment operation standards, pedestrian safety, public notification, right-of-way permits, emergency response
• Environmental: material handling/containment, vehicle maintenance, immediate cleanup, waste disposal documentation, MassDEP/local ordinance compliance For more information, contact the Plainville Department of Public Works
  190 South Street, Plainville, MA 02762
  (508) 695-6871
  Official Website: Plainville Department of Public Works and consult the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP)
  https://www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-environmental-protection for state-level requirements.