Scotts 4-Step Program

The Scotts 4 Step Lawn Care Program is designed to help homeowners maintain a lush, healthy lawn throughout the year by providing the right nutrients and treatments at the right time. Here’s an overview of the steps and the process involved:

Step 1: Early Spring (February – April)

Scotts® Turf Builder® with Halts® Crabgrass Preventer

• Purpose: Prevents crabgrass and nourishes the lawn for early spring growth.
• When to Apply: As soon as the snow melts and the soil temperature reaches 50°F, usually between February and April.
• Process:
  1. Mow your lawn to an appropriate height.
  2. Apply the Scotts Turf Builder with Halts evenly using a spreader.
  3. Water the lawn lightly to activate the product.
  4. Avoid disturbing the soil after application, as this may reduce the effectiveness of crabgrass prevention.

Step 2: Late Spring (April – June)

Scotts® Turf Builder® Weed & Feed

• Purpose: Kills broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover while feeding your lawn.
• When to Apply: When weeds are actively growing, typically April to June. The lawn should be wet before applying, and no rain should be expected for 24 hours.
• Process:
  1. Mow your lawn a few days before application.
  2. Ensure the grass is slightly damp (either from morning dew or light watering).
  3. Use a spreader to apply the product evenly across the lawn.
  4. Water the lawn 24-48 hours after application.

Step 3: Summer (June – August)

Scotts® Turf Builder® SummerGuard® with Insect Control

• Purpose: Protects against insects like ants, fleas, and ticks while strengthening the lawn against summer heat and drought.
• When to Apply: In mid-summer when insects become active and heat stress is a concern (usually June to August).
• Process:
  1. Mow the lawn to a regular height before application.
  2. Apply evenly using a spreader on a dry lawn.
  3. Water the lawn immediately after application to activate the insect control and promote grass growth.

Step 4: Fall (September – November)

Scotts® Turf Builder® WinterGuard® Fall Lawn Food

• Purpose: Strengthens grass roots and prepares the lawn for winter dormancy, ensuring a quicker green-up in spring.
• When to Apply: In early fall, typically from September to November, while the grass is still actively growing but temperatures are cooling down.
• Process:
  1. Mow the lawn one last time before applying the product.
  2. Apply evenly using a spreader.
  3. Water the lawn to help nutrients penetrate the soil and feed the roots.

General Tips for the Scotts 4 Bag Program:

• Spreader Calibration: Ensure your spreader is calibrated correctly to apply the right amount of each product.
• Watering: Watering after application is key for activating certain products, like fertilizers and insect control. Always follow watering instructions on the bag.
• Weed Control: For weed prevention, it’s essential not to disturb the soil too much after applying weed control products, as this can bring weed seeds to the surface.
• Consistency: Stick to the schedule and be consistent with applications to achieve the best results.

By following these four steps, your lawn will be nourished, protected from weeds and pests, and ready to thrive all year long.