Maintaining a lush, green lawn can feel like a constant battle against weeds. Fortunately, the Scotts® 4-Step® Lawn Care Program offers a straightforward approach to achieve a healthy, weed-free yard throughout the year. A crucial part of this program is Step 2 – Weed Control Plus Lawn Food. Applied in late spring, this step is specifically designed to tackle those pesky broadleaf weeds that emerge as the weather warms up, while also providing essential nutrients to your grass.
Understanding Scotts Step 2: Weed Control Plus Lawn Food
Scotts Step 2 Weed Control Plus Lawn Food is more than just a fertilizer; it’s a dual-action product formulated to both eliminate existing weeds and nourish your lawn. This step is critical for addressing weeds that have germinated and started to grow after the initial crabgrass prevention of Step 1.
Specifically, Step 2 targets broadleaf weeds, which are common lawn invaders characterized by their wider leaves, such as:
- Dandelions: Easily recognizable by their bright yellow flowers and puffball seed heads.
- Clover: A low-growing weed with three-leaf clusters, often seen in lawns.
- Chickweed: A sprawling weed with small white flowers that thrives in damp areas.
- Plantain: Low-growing weeds with ribbed leaves that form rosettes.
While effectively controlling these weeds, Step 2 also delivers vital lawn food. This fertilizer component strengthens your grass, promoting thicker, greener turf from the roots up. This dual action ensures that as weeds are eliminated, your healthy grass fills in, preventing future weed problems.
When to Apply Scotts Step 2 for Optimal Weed Control
Timing is key for the effectiveness of Scotts Step 2. The ideal application window is late spring, specifically between April and June. This period typically falls 4-6 weeks after applying Step 1 Crabgrass Preventer Plus Lawn Food. A helpful landmark to remember is around Memorial Day.
Applying Step 2 during this late spring window is crucial because it coincides with the active growth period of many broadleaf weeds. The warmer temperatures and consistent moisture create favorable conditions for these weeds to flourish, making it the perfect time to intervene with targeted weed control.
How to Apply Scotts Step 2 for Best Results
For Scotts Step 2 to work effectively, proper application is essential. Follow these guidelines for optimal results:
- Check the Timing: Ensure you are within the late spring application window and at least 4-6 weeks after Step 1.
- Choose a Calm Day: Apply Step 2 on a day when the wind is calm to prevent drift and ensure even distribution of the product on your lawn.
- Damp Lawn is Ideal: For the weed control component to adhere to weed leaves, apply Step 2 to a damp lawn. This can be achieved by applying after a morning dew or light watering.
- Monitor the Weather: Check the forecast and ensure that rain is not expected for at least 24 hours after application. This allows the weed control ingredients sufficient time to be absorbed by the weeds.
- Use a Spreader: Utilize a Scotts spreader for even and accurate application. Follow the spreader settings recommended on the product bag to avoid over or under-application.
- Overlap Slightly: When using a spreader, slightly overlap application paths to ensure complete coverage and prevent striping.
Benefits of Scotts Step 2: A Healthier, Weed-Free Lawn
Scotts Step 2 Weed Control Plus Lawn Food is a vital component of the 4-Step program, offering numerous benefits for your lawn:
- Effective Weed Control: It effectively kills many common broadleaf weeds, preventing them from competing with your grass for nutrients, water, and sunlight.
- Lawn Nourishment: The included lawn food provides essential nutrients, promoting vigorous growth and a deep green color.
- Thicker Turf: By feeding your lawn and eliminating weeds, Step 2 helps create thicker, denser turf, which is naturally more resistant to future weed infestations.
- Improved Lawn Appearance: A weed-free, lush green lawn significantly enhances the overall appearance and curb appeal of your home.
By understanding what is Scotts Step 2 Weed Control Plus Lawn Food and applying it correctly in late spring, you take a significant step towards achieving a beautiful, healthy lawn as part of the Scotts 4-Step Lawn Care Program. This crucial step ensures your lawn is not only weed-free but also well-nourished for the summer months ahead.
