Is your lawn looking less like a lush green carpet and more like a weed patch? You’re not alone. Achieving a beautiful, healthy lawn can feel like a constant battle against weeds and the elements. But with the Ace Hardware 4-Step Lawn Care Program featuring Scotts® 4 Step®, you can take the guesswork out of lawn maintenance and enjoy a vibrant, green yard all season long. This simple, annual plan provides your lawn with the nutrients it needs at just the right times of year to combat weeds and thrive. Let’s break down how to use the Scotts® 4-Step® program available at Ace Hardware to create the lawn of your dreams.
Mastering the Scotts® 4-Step® System
The Scotts® 4-Step® program is designed for year-round lawn care, with each step targeting specific needs for each season. Following this program ensures your lawn receives the correct treatment at the optimal time, maximizing its health and appearance. Here’s a detailed look at each step:
Step® 1 – Crabgrass Preventer Plus Lawn Food:
Kick off your lawn care in early spring, anytime from February to April, when temperatures are still cool (below 80ËšF). Step® 1, Crabgrass Preventer Plus Lawn Food, is crucial for preventing crabgrass from taking root. This pre-emergent action stops crabgrass before it even starts, giving your desirable grass a chance to flourish. Beyond weed prevention, Step® 1 also acts as a lawn food, providing essential nutrients to help your lawn green up after the winter months.
- Plan Ahead: For ultimate convenience and to ensure you’re ready for each application window, consider purchasing all four bags of the Scotts® 4-Step® program from Ace Hardware at once.
- Size Options: Choose the bag size that suits your lawn – available in 5,000 sq. ft. and 15,000 sq. ft. sizes.
- Timing is Key: Apply Step® 1 ideally on or before Easter to get ahead of crabgrass germination.
- Soil Health Boost: For even better results, consider using Scotts® Foundation Soil Improver around the same time as your Step® 1 application to improve soil conditions before the growing season truly begins.
Step 2® – Weed Control Plus Lawn Food:
Transition into late spring with Step® 2, Weed Control Plus Lawn Food. Apply this step between April and June, waiting 4-6 weeks after your Step® 1 application. Step® 2 tackles existing broadleaf weeds like dandelions, effectively killing them while simultaneously feeding your lawn. This dual-action formula not only clears out unwanted weeds but also nourishes your grass, promoting thick, green growth from the roots up.
- Memorial Day Timing: Aim to apply Step® 2 around Memorial Day as a helpful reminder within the April to June window.
- Application Conditions: Apply Step® 2 on a calm day to prevent drift, ideally onto a damp lawn to help the weed control granules adhere to weed leaves, and when no rain is expected for at least 24 hours to avoid washing away the product before it can work.
Step® 3 – Lawn Food With 2% Iron:
As summer heat arrives, your lawn needs extra support to withstand stress. Step® 3, Lawn Food With 2% Iron, is designed to provide a mid-season boost. Apply it during the summer months, between June and August. This formula feeds and strengthens your lawn, making it more resilient against summer heat and drought conditions. The added iron also helps to enhance the green color of your lawn.
- Independence Day Application: A good time to remember to apply Step® 3 is around Independence Day.
- Watering Recommendation: If rain isn’t anticipated, water your lawn immediately after applying Step® 3 to help the nutrients reach the roots and prevent fertilizer burn.
- Spot Treat Weeds: Monitor your lawn and spot treat any persistent weeds as needed throughout the summer for optimal weed control.
Step® 4 – Fall Lawn Food: .jpg)
Prepare your lawn for winter and set it up for a strong spring with Step® 4, Fall Lawn Food. Apply this final step 4 to 6 weeks after Step® 3, typically between August and November. Step® 4 focuses on strengthening your lawn’s root system before winter dormancy. It also provides a late-season green-up and delivers nutrients that will help your lawn emerge healthier and greener next spring.
- Labor Day to Mid-October Window: Apply Step® 4 anytime from Labor Day until mid-October for best results.
- Watering (Optional): Watering in Step® 4 after application can speed up the greening process if desired, but it is not strictly necessary.
By following the Ace Hardware 4-Step Lawn Care Program with Scotts® products, you’re investing in a simple yet effective plan to achieve a healthier, more beautiful lawn. Each step is formulated to address your lawn’s specific needs throughout the year, from preventing weeds to strengthening roots. Visit your local Ace Hardware today to pick up your Scotts® 4-Step® program and take the first step towards a lawn you’ll love.
