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How to Start the Scotts 4 Step Program

Start here for a yard worthy of cookouts, kids, pets and play.

How To Do The Scotts® 4 Step®

Without proper care, your yard can quickly become a battleground of grass vs. weeds. Fortunately, there's no need for a turf war, thanks to our most-requested annual lawn care plan, the Scotts® 4 Step® lawn. We show you exactly how and when to feed for a better spring, summer, fall and winter lawn.

Start here for a yard worthy of cookouts, kids, pets and play.

1 - Step 1® Crabgrass Preventer Plus Lawn Food

Prevent problem grassy weeds like crabgrass

Apply off the season with Step® 1. Apply in early spring, anytime between February and April when temperatures are still cool (under 80F). Step® 1 prevents crabgrass before it can germinate. It also feeds to green up a winter-weary lawn, too.


TO DO:

  • Ready yourself for the season, but prepare for the year. Buy all 4 bags now.
  • Choose from 5,000 sq. ft. or 15,000 sq. ft. size.
  • Apply Step 1 on or before Easter.
  • To help improve your soil before the growing season, apply Scotts® Foundation Soil Improver around the same time as your Step® 1 application.

2 - Step® 2 Weed Control Plus Lawn Food

Stop dandelions; nourish grass plants.

Apply Step® 2 in late spring, anytime between April and June, but be sure to wait 4-6 weeks after applying Step® 1. It kills many broadleaf weeds like dandelions, while feeding and nourishing the lawn. Step® 2 builds thick, green turf from the roots up.


TO DO:

  • Apply Step® 2 near Memorial Day.
  • Apply on a calm day, on a damp lawn, and when rain is not expected for at least 24 hours.
    
bag of Step 2

3 - Step® 3 Lawn Food with 2% Iron

Green things up.

Give your lawn a mid-season boost with an application of Step® 3. Apply in the summer, between June and August. Step® 3 feeds and strengthens the lawn against heat and drought, guaranteed.


TO DO:

  • Apply Step® 3 close to Independence Day.
  • If rain is not expected, immediately water after application.
  • Spot treat weeds, as needed.
bag of Step 3

4 - Step® 4 Fall Lawn Food

Protect and strengthen.

Step® 4 can be applied 4 to 6 weeks after Step® 3, between August and November. It greens up the lawn now, and helps strengthen and protect it for a better lawn next spring.


TO DO:

  • Apply Step® 4 from Labor Day until mid October.
  • Water in to speed greening, if desired.
bag of Step 4