Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed products offer a convenient two-in-one solution for lawn care, simultaneously fertilizing grass and controlling common weeds for a healthier, vibrant yard.
These formulations are designed to nourish your lawn while tackling unwanted plant growth, simplifying your routine and promoting a lush, green landscape.
What is Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed?
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed is a granular lawn care product combining fertilizer and herbicide. It’s designed to nourish your grass while actively eliminating broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover.
Essentially, it’s a two-step process in one application – feeding your lawn essential nutrients for growth and simultaneously targeting unwanted weeds. Different formulations exist, including those specifically tailored for Southern or Florida lawns, like the Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed.
These products aim to simplify lawn maintenance, offering a convenient solution for a healthier, weed-free yard.
Benefits of Using Weed & Feed
Weed & Feed offers several advantages for homeowners. It saves time and effort by combining fertilization and weed control into a single application. This dual-action approach results in a greener, thicker lawn while simultaneously eliminating unsightly weeds.
Using Scotts Turf Builder products can improve lawn health, making it more resilient to pests and diseases. Specific formulations, like those for Florida lawns, cater to regional grass types, maximizing effectiveness. It’s a convenient path to a beautiful, well-maintained yard.
Understanding Your Lawn
Knowing your grass type is crucial for successful Weed & Feed application, ensuring compatibility and optimal results for a thriving and healthy lawn.
Grass Types and Weed & Feed Compatibility
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed products are formulated for various grass types, but specific formulations exist for optimal results. For instance, Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed is specifically designed for Southern grasses like Bermuda, Zoysia, and St. Augustine.
Conversely, Scotts Florida Lawn 4 Bag Bundle caters to Florida’s unique grass varieties. Always check the product label to confirm compatibility with your lawn’s grass type to avoid potential damage or reduced effectiveness. Using the wrong product can harm your grass and fail to control weeds properly.
Identifying Common Lawn Weeds
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed effectively targets common broadleaf weeds like dandelions, clover, and plantain. Recognizing these intruders is crucial for timely treatment. Look for dandelions with their distinctive yellow flowers and jagged leaves, or clover identified by its three-leaf structure.
Plantain exhibits a rosette of leaves with prominent veins. Accurate weed identification ensures you select the appropriate Weed & Feed product for optimal control and a healthier, weed-free lawn. Early detection is key to preventing widespread infestation.
Preparing for Application
Proper preparation is vital for successful Weed & Feed application. Calculate your lawn’s square footage and choose the correct product for your grass type and weed issues.
Calculating Lawn Square Footage
Accurate lawn measurement is crucial for applying the correct amount of Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed. Begin by measuring the length and width of your rectangular lawns in feet, then multiply these dimensions to find the area.
For irregular shapes, divide the lawn into smaller, manageable sections – rectangles, triangles, or circles – calculate the area of each, and then add them together. Remember that Weed & Feed typically covers 5,000 square feet, so knowing your lawn size ensures proper coverage and avoids over or under-application.
Choosing the Right Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed Product
Selecting the appropriate product depends on your grass type and regional needs. Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed is specifically formulated for Southern grasses, while the Florida Lawn 4 Bag Bundle caters to Florida’s unique conditions.
Consider whether you need a product with extra fertilizer or one focused on specific weed control. Always read the product label to confirm compatibility with your grass and target weeds for optimal results and a thriving lawn.
Application Instructions
Proper application is crucial for effectiveness. Calibrate your spreader carefully, following rate guidelines, and ensure even distribution across the lawn for consistent results.
Spreader Calibration
Accurate spreader calibration is paramount for successful Weed & Feed application. Begin by referencing the product packaging for the recommended settings based on your spreader type – drop or broadcast.
Before the main application, perform a calibration test by applying a measured amount of product over a known square footage. Adjust the spreader setting until the application rate matches the label instructions.
The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader, for example, covers up to 5,000 sq. ft., but settings vary. Regularly check your spreader for proper function and consistent output.
Application Rate Guidelines
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed products typically cover 5,000 square feet, but always verify the specific coverage on your product’s packaging. Maximum application frequency is generally limited to two times per year, ensuring you don’t over-treat your lawn.
The Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed, for instance, adheres to this twice-yearly limit. Apply when grass and weeds are actively growing, avoiding periods of drought or extreme heat.
Carefully follow the recommended application rates to achieve optimal results and prevent lawn damage.
Proper Application Technique (Even Distribution)
Even distribution is crucial for effective Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed application. Utilize a Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader, calibrated correctly, to ensure uniform coverage across your lawn.
Walk at a consistent pace, overlapping slightly with each pass to avoid striping or missed areas.
Apply half the product walking in one direction, then apply the remaining half perpendicularly. This cross-hatch pattern guarantees thorough and consistent coverage for optimal weed control and fertilization.
Post-Application Care
Following application, water your lawn thoroughly to activate the fertilizer and help it reach the grass roots for optimal nutrient absorption and effectiveness.
Watering After Application
Immediately after applying Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed, and for the next 24-48 hours, watering is crucial. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a vital step for product activation. Watering helps dissolve the fertilizer granules, allowing the nutrients to reach the grass roots effectively.
Adequate moisture also encourages the weed control component to bind to weed leaves, maximizing its impact. Aim for approximately ¼ to ½ inch of water, ensuring even coverage across the treated lawn area; Avoid heavy watering that could cause runoff.
Waiting Period Before Lawn Use
Following application of Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed, it’s essential to observe a waiting period before allowing unrestricted lawn use. Generally, it’s recommended to keep children and pets off the treated area for at least 24 hours, or until the granules have completely disappeared into the grass.
This precaution minimizes potential exposure to the product. Always consult the specific product label for precise instructions, as waiting times can vary. Watering the lawn thoroughly after application further reduces any residual concerns.
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when using Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed; wear appropriate personal protective equipment, and be mindful of environmental impact during application.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Protect yourself during application! When handling Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial. This includes gloves to prevent skin contact, long sleeves and pants to minimize exposure, and closed-toe shoes.
Eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, is also highly recommended to shield against potential irritation; A dust mask can be beneficial, especially when applying the product in windy conditions, to avoid inhaling particles.
Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling and before eating, drinking, or smoking.
Environmental Considerations
Protecting our environment is key! Avoid applying Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed before anticipated rainfall, as runoff can contaminate waterways. Do not apply directly to water bodies, such as lakes or streams.
Sweep up any spilled product immediately and dispose of it properly according to local regulations. Store the product in a secure, dry location, out of reach of children and pets.
Consider the impact on beneficial insects and pollinators when applying, and avoid over-application.
Troubleshooting
Uneven results or stubborn weeds? Re-application may be needed, ensuring proper spreader calibration and following rate guidelines closely for optimal weed and feed control.
Addressing Uneven Results
If you notice patchy results after application, several factors could be at play. First, verify your spreader was correctly calibrated to deliver the recommended rate – inconsistent distribution is a common cause.
Ensure thorough coverage during application, avoiding overlaps or missed spots. Watering immediately after helps activate the fertilizer and weed control agents, but excessive watering can dilute the product.
Consider the weed type; some are more resistant and may require a second application within the maximum frequency (two times per year) for complete control.
Dealing with Stubborn Weeds
For particularly persistent weeds, a follow-up treatment might be necessary, adhering to the maximum application frequency of two times per year. Spot-treating these areas with a concentrated herbicide designed for those specific weeds can be effective.
Ensure proper identification of the weed species to select the appropriate solution. Consider environmental factors – drought or excessive moisture can hinder weed control.
Combining Weed & Feed with pre-emergent herbicides in the spring can prevent new weed seeds from germinating, offering a comprehensive approach.
Scotts Brand Overview
Scotts, Miracle-Gro, and Ortho are leading brands in their respective categories, known for quality lawn and garden products. The Hawthorne Gardening Company supports indoor growing.
Scotts, Miracle-Gro, and Ortho Brands
Scotts is renowned for its lawn care solutions, including Turf Builder Weed & Feed, consistently delivering trusted results for homeowners. Miracle-Gro focuses on plant nutrition and growing media, enhancing gardens and indoor plants.
Ortho provides targeted pest control and disease prevention products, protecting lawns and landscapes from damaging issues. These brands, under the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, demonstrate a commitment to innovation and quality, offering a comprehensive range of gardening solutions for every need.
The Hawthorne Gardening Company
The Hawthorne Gardening Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Scotts Miracle-Gro, specializes in the indoor and hydroponic growing segment. They are a leading provider of essential nutrients, advanced lighting systems, and various other materials crucial for controlled environment agriculture.
Hawthorne’s focus extends beyond traditional gardening, catering to the growing demand for indoor cultivation and innovative growing techniques. This dedication supports both hobbyist and commercial growers seeking optimized plant health and yields.
Specific Product Lines
Scotts offers specialized formulas like Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed and the Florida Lawn 4 Bag Bundle, tailored for regional grass types and specific needs.
Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed
Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed 2 is specifically formulated for Southern grasses, providing both fertilization and weed control. It’s designed for application anytime grass and weeds are actively growing.
This product boasts a maximum application rate of two times per year, ensuring you don’t over-treat your lawn. It effectively targets common Southern weeds while simultaneously feeding your grass for a thicker, greener appearance. Always follow label instructions carefully for optimal results and safety.
Scotts Florida Lawn 4 Bag Bundle
Scotts Florida Lawn 4 Bag Bundle is a specialized solution tailored for the unique needs of Florida lawns. This bundle contains everything needed to nourish and protect your grass, offering a comprehensive approach to lawn care.
Specifically formulated for Florida grass types, this bundle delivers essential nutrients and effective weed control. It’s designed to promote a healthy, vibrant lawn that thrives in the Florida climate. Always adhere to the product’s instructions for best results and a beautiful yard.
Lawn Repair Products
Scotts PatchMaster Lawn Repair Mix combines seed, mulch, and fertilizer for easy bare spot repair, growing quickly and absorbing significant moisture.
Scotts PatchMaster Lawn Repair Mix
Scotts PatchMaster Lawn Repair Mix is a comprehensive solution for restoring damaged lawns. This all-in-one product expertly blends high-quality grass seed, a nutrient-rich fertilizer, and a protective mulch layer, creating an ideal environment for rapid growth.
Designed for both sun and shade areas, PatchMaster starts to germinate in as few as seven days, providing visible results quickly. The included fertilizer feeds the new grass for up to six weeks, while the mulch retains moisture – absorbing three times its weight in water – ensuring robust establishment.
Tools and Accessories
Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader efficiently covers up to 5,000 sq. ft., and is also ideal for applying ice melt during winter months.
Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader
The Scotts Turf Builder EdgeGuard Mini Broadcast Spreader is a versatile tool designed for efficient application of lawn care products, including Weed & Feed. Covering up to 5,000 square feet, its compact size makes it perfect for smaller lawns and navigating tight spaces.
Beyond lawn care, this spreader excels at distributing ice melt on driveways and sidewalks during winter, offering year-round utility. The EdgeGuard technology ensures precise product placement, preventing scattering onto unwanted areas like flowerbeds or pavement.
Community Involvement
Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation partners with organizations like KidsGardening through GroMoreGood Grassroots Grants, supporting community gardens and promoting the benefits of green spaces nationwide.
GroMoreGood Grassroots Grants
GroMoreGood is a significant initiative by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation, dedicated to increasing access to gardens and green spaces. These Grassroots Grants provide funding to community-based projects focused on gardening, urban agriculture, and environmental education.
The program aims to empower local organizations to cultivate thriving gardens, fostering community engagement, promoting healthy lifestyles, and enhancing environmental sustainability. Em Shipman of KidsGardening highlights the transformative power these grants bring to communities.
Application Timing
Scotts Turf Builder Bonus S Southern Weed and Feed allows for a maximum of two applications per year, timed when both grass and weeds are actively growing.
Maximum Application Frequency (e.g., 2 times per year)
Generally, Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed products, like the Bonus S Southern variety, should not be applied more than twice annually. Exceeding this frequency can potentially harm your lawn, leading to fertilizer burn or other adverse effects.
Optimal timing aligns with periods of active weed and grass growth, typically spring and fall. Always adhere to the specific product label instructions, as formulations may vary. Careful adherence ensures a healthy, thriving lawn without compromising its well-being.
