Scotts Weed and Feed products combine fertilization with broadleaf weed control, offering a convenient lawn care solution.
Detailed instructions, including a PDF version of the Safety Data Sheet (SDS), are readily available from Evergreen Garden Care.
These products, like Scotts Turf Builder, simplify lawn maintenance by addressing both nutrient deficiencies and unwanted vegetation simultaneously.
What is Scotts Weed and Feed?
Scotts Weed and Feed is a dual-action lawn care product designed to nourish your grass while simultaneously controlling common broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover.
It’s not simply fertilizer; it’s a formulated blend containing plant food – indicated by the N-P-K ratio – and a herbicide to target unwanted weeds.
Different formulations exist, such as Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed 3, each tailored for specific grass types and weed challenges.
Crucially, understanding the specific product you have is vital, and the instructions, often available as a PDF, detail application rates and safety precautions.
Evergreen Garden Care provides comprehensive Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for each product, outlining potential hazards and first aid measures.
These instructions ensure effective weed control and a healthy, vibrant lawn.
Benefits of Using Scotts Weed and Feed
Scotts Weed and Feed offers a convenient, time-saving approach to lawn care, combining fertilization and weed control in a single application.
This dual-action formula eliminates the need for separate treatments, simplifying your lawn maintenance routine.
By providing essential nutrients, it promotes a thicker, greener lawn, while the herbicide targets and eliminates unsightly weeds.
Accessing the product instructions, often available as a PDF, ensures optimal results and safe application.
Following the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) guidelines, provided by Evergreen Garden Care, minimizes risks to pets, people, and the environment.
Proper application, detailed in the instructions, leads to a healthier, more attractive lawn with reduced weed pressure.

Understanding the Product Label
Scotts Weed and Feed labels detail crucial information, including application rates and safety precautions.
Reviewing the instructions, often found as a PDF, and the SDS is essential for proper and safe use.
Identifying the Specific Scotts Weed and Feed Product
Identifying your specific Scotts Weed and Feed product is the first step towards safe and effective lawn care. Numerous formulations exist, such as Turf Builder Weed and Feed 3, Lawn Builder Weed, Feed & Green-up, and Buffalo Weed, Feed & Green-Up 3in1.
Each product has a unique formulation and application guidelines. The product name and registration number are prominently displayed on the packaging.
Crucially, locate the corresponding instructions and Safety Data Sheet (SDS), often available as a PDF online from Evergreen Garden Care or the Scotts website. These documents provide tailored guidance for your specific product, ensuring optimal results and minimizing potential risks. Always match the SDS to the exact product you are using.
Incorrectly applying a different product’s instructions can lead to ineffective weed control or lawn damage.
Decoding the N-P-K Ratio
The N-P-K ratio on Scotts Weed and Feed packaging represents the percentage of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) by weight. For example, Scotts Turf Builder I displays 28-0-3; This indicates 28% Nitrogen, 0% Phosphorus, and 3% Potassium.
Nitrogen promotes green growth, Phosphorus supports root development, and Potassium enhances overall plant health. Understanding this ratio helps you choose a product suited to your lawn’s needs.
Refer to the product’s instructions, often found as a PDF online, to understand how the specific N-P-K ratio benefits your grass type. The SDS will not detail nutrient benefits, but the product label and accompanying guides will. Correctly interpreting the N-P-K ratio ensures optimal fertilization and a thriving lawn.
Reading the Application Instructions
Carefully reviewing the application instructions on your Scotts Weed and Feed product is crucial for effective and safe use. These details, often available as a downloadable PDF, outline proper spreader settings, application rates, and coverage areas.
Pay close attention to lawn type specifications, as different grasses may require varied application amounts. The instructions will detail whether a single or multiple pass application is recommended. Always prioritize following the label; deviations can lead to uneven results or lawn damage.
The SDS doesn’t cover application, but the product label and supplemental guides provide comprehensive guidance for optimal weed control and lawn fertilization.
Safety Precautions
Safety is paramount when using Scotts Weed and Feed; consult the SDS (available as a PDF) for detailed guidelines.
Always prioritize personal protection and responsible handling practices during application.

Pet Safety and Scotts Weed and Feed
Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed 3 is generally considered safe for pets when used as directed, according to available information.
However, it’s crucial to prioritize pet wellbeing during and after application. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS), often available as a PDF download, provides specific guidance.
Keep pets off treated areas until the granules have been thoroughly watered in and the lawn is dry. This minimizes potential ingestion or contact. Always follow label instructions meticulously.
Consider confining pets indoors during application and for a recommended period afterward. If any adverse reactions are observed, consult a veterinarian immediately, referencing the SDS for product composition details.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
When applying Scotts Weed and Feed, utilizing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for user safety. While not always explicitly detailed in quick-start guides, the comprehensive Safety Data Sheet (SDS) – often available as a PDF – outlines recommended precautions.
At a minimum, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed-toe shoes to minimize skin exposure. Gloves are strongly advised to prevent contact with the product.
Eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, is crucial to avoid irritation. A dust mask may be beneficial, particularly during application, to prevent inhalation of granules.
Always review the SDS for your specific Scotts product to confirm the recommended PPE and ensure a safe application process.
First Aid Measures
In case of exposure to Scotts Weed and Feed, prompt action is crucial. The detailed Safety Data Sheet (SDS), often accessible as a PDF online, provides comprehensive first aid guidance.
If swallowed, rinse the mouth and do not induce vomiting; seek immediate medical attention. For eye contact, flush thoroughly with water for 15-20 minutes and consult a physician.
Skin contact requires washing the affected area with soap and water. If irritation persists, seek medical advice.
For inhalation, move to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen and seek medical help. Always have the product label or SDS available when contacting medical personnel or poison control.

Application Instructions
Scotts Weed and Feed application requires careful preparation and precise spreader calibration, detailed in the product’s instructions PDF.
Follow label directions for optimal results and lawn health, ensuring even coverage for effective weed control and feeding.
Preparing Your Lawn for Application
Before applying Scotts Weed and Feed, proper lawn preparation is crucial for maximizing effectiveness. Begin by removing any existing debris like leaves, twigs, and grass clippings; a clean surface ensures even product distribution.
Mow your lawn to a reasonable height – typically around 2-3 inches – before application, as outlined in the Scotts Weed and Feed instructions PDF. This allows the product to reach the weed leaves effectively.
Watering the lawn a day or two before application is also recommended, but avoid applying to wet grass. Check the SDS for specific recommendations. Ensure the lawn is not stressed due to drought or disease, as this can impact product performance. A healthy lawn responds best to treatment!
Proper Spreader Calibration
Accurate spreader calibration is paramount for even application of Scotts Weed and Feed. Refer to the Scotts Weed and Feed instructions PDF for your specific product, as settings vary.
Begin by determining your spreader type – drop or rotary – and locate the corresponding setting chart on the product label. Perform a calibration test by applying a measured amount of product over a known area.
Adjust the spreader setting until the application rate matches the label recommendations. Over-application can cause lawn damage, while under-application may result in poor weed control. Regularly check the spreader for blockages and ensure consistent wheel rotation for uniform coverage.
Application Timing and Weather Conditions
Optimal timing, detailed in the Scotts Weed and Feed instructions PDF, is crucial for effectiveness. Apply when your lawn is dry and temperatures are between 60°F and 80°F. Avoid application before heavy rainfall, as this can wash away the product, reducing its impact.
Spring and fall are generally ideal application windows, coinciding with active weed growth. Do not apply if winds exceed 10-15 mph to prevent drift onto non-target areas. Check the forecast; a period of dry weather for at least 24 hours post-application is recommended.
Avoid applying to stressed lawns – those suffering from drought or disease – as this may exacerbate the issue.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Information
Safety Data Sheets (SDS), often available as a PDF from Evergreen Garden Care, provide comprehensive product hazard information and emergency procedures.
These sheets detail handling, storage, and first aid measures for Scotts Weed and Feed products.

Locating the SDS for Your Product
Finding the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for your specific Scotts Weed and Feed product is crucial for understanding potential hazards and safety protocols.
Evergreen Garden Care, the issuing company, typically provides these documents as PDF downloads on their official website.
You can often locate the SDS by searching the product name (e.g., Scotts Turf Builder Weed and Feed 3) and “SDS” on a search engine.
Alternatively, check the product packaging itself; some labels include a QR code or web address directing you to the relevant SDS.
Ensure you download the SDS corresponding to the exact product you are using, as formulations can vary.

Always refer to the most current version of the SDS, as information may be updated periodically.
Understanding SDS Sections
The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for Scotts Weed and Feed is organized into standardized sections to provide comprehensive safety information.
Section 2 details hazard identification, outlining potential risks associated with the product.
Section 4 covers first-aid measures, crucial in case of accidental exposure.
Sections 5-8 address firefighting measures, accidental release procedures, handling and storage, and exposure controls/personal protection.
Sections 9-11 detail physical and chemical properties, stability/reactivity, and toxicological information.
Finally, sections 12-16 cover ecological information, disposal considerations, transport information, regulatory information, and other relevant details.
Carefully reviewing each section of the PDF SDS ensures safe handling and application of the product.
SDS and Emergency Procedures
The Scotts Weed and Feed SDS, often available as a PDF, is vital during emergencies. It provides critical information for first responders and medical personnel.
In case of accidental ingestion, consult Section 4 of the SDS for immediate first-aid instructions – do not induce vomiting unless directed by a medical professional.
For skin or eye contact, follow the SDS’s flushing recommendations.
If inhalation occurs, move to fresh air.
The SDS also lists emergency contact numbers for poison control and Scotts/Evergreen Garden Care.
Keep the SDS readily accessible during application and store it with the product for future reference. Knowing these procedures ensures a swift and informed response to any unforeseen incidents.

Troubleshooting Common Issues
Scotts Weed and Feed problems? Consult the product label and SDS (available as a PDF) for solutions regarding uneven results or weed control failures.
Proper application, per instructions, is key.
Uneven Green-Up
Uneven green-up after applying Scotts Weed and Feed can stem from several factors, and the product’s instructions, often found as a PDF, offer guidance.
Spreader calibration is crucial; ensure it’s correctly set for even distribution. Patchy results may indicate inconsistent coverage during application.
Soil conditions also play a role – compacted soil or areas with poor drainage might hinder nutrient uptake. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) doesn’t directly address this, but the product label highlights proper lawn preparation.
Furthermore, existing lawn health impacts response; stressed or thin areas may show less dramatic improvement. Review the PDF instructions for reseeding recommendations if needed.
Finally, rainfall shortly after application can wash away fertilizer, leading to uneven color.
Weed Control Failures
Weed control failures with Scotts Weed and Feed often relate to application timing or weed type; consult the product instructions, available as a PDF.
The product is most effective on actively growing broadleaf weeds. Dormant weeds or those with waxy leaves may resist treatment. The SDS doesn’t detail weed specifics, but the label lists target species.
Insufficient coverage is another common cause; ensure proper spreader calibration and overlap passes slightly. Check the PDF for recommended application rates.
Rainfall immediately after application can dilute the herbicide, reducing its efficacy. Also, some weeds exhibit resistance, requiring alternative control methods.
Finally, ensure the product wasn’t expired, as older formulations lose potency. Refer to the PDF for storage guidelines.
Grass Damage
Grass damage following Scotts Weed and Feed application can occur due to over-application or improper spreader calibration; review the instructions PDF carefully.
Certain grass types, particularly newly seeded or stressed lawns, are more sensitive. The SDS doesn’t detail grass sensitivities, but the label provides guidance.
High temperatures combined with the product can cause “burn,” appearing as brown patches. Avoid application during heat waves. Always check the PDF for temperature restrictions.
Incorrect mixing with water (if applicable) or applying to a wet lawn can also contribute to damage. Follow dilution rates precisely.
If damage occurs, increase watering to help the grass recover; Consult the PDF for post-application care recommendations and potential remedies.
Post-Application Care
Post-application, the Scotts Weed and Feed instructions PDF recommends watering thoroughly and avoiding mowing for several days to maximize effectiveness.
Reseeding should be delayed according to label guidelines.
Watering After Application
Following application of Scotts Weed and Feed, as detailed in the product’s instructions PDF, watering is crucial for activating the fertilizer and ensuring it reaches the root zone.
The PDF generally advises watering lightly immediately after application, and then more thoroughly within 24-48 hours, approximately ¼ to ½ inch of water.
This initial watering helps dissolve the fertilizer granules and move them into the soil, promoting nutrient uptake by the grass.
Avoid heavy watering immediately after application, as this could wash away the product and reduce its effectiveness. Consistent moisture, as per the PDF, supports healthy grass growth and weed control.
Always refer to the specific product label for tailored watering recommendations.
Mowing Recommendations
Following Scotts Weed and Feed application, the instructions PDF typically recommends waiting at least 2-3 days before mowing your lawn.
This delay allows the fertilizer to bind to the grass blades and the weed control agents to be absorbed effectively.
When you do mow, ensure your mower blades are sharp to avoid stressing the grass, which could hinder recovery.
The PDF suggests mowing at your lawn’s normal height; avoid scalping, as this can damage the grass and reduce its ability to absorb nutrients.
Collect grass clippings during the first mowing after application to prevent the spread of any residual weed control product. Regular mowing practices, as outlined in the PDF, contribute to a healthy, vibrant lawn.
Reseeding Considerations
The Scotts Weed and Feed instructions PDF advises caution when reseeding a lawn treated with their products.

Generally, it’s best to wait 6-8 weeks after application before attempting to reseed, as the herbicide component can harm new grass seedlings.
Consider spot-seeding only in areas needing repair, minimizing the overlap with treated zones.
Prior to reseeding, thoroughly water the areas to dilute any remaining herbicide residue.
The PDF may recommend using a starter fertilizer formulated for new grass to promote robust growth. Always check the specific product label for precise reseeding guidelines, as formulations and waiting periods can vary. Patience is key for successful reseeding after Scotts Weed and Feed application.