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8 Best Scotts Weed & Feed Products That Keep Lawns Lush and Weed‑Free
You’ll find eight top Scotts weed‑and‑feed formulas that keep lawns lush and weed‑free: Southern Triple Action (26.64 lb, 8,000 sq ft), Southern Lawn Fertilizer (28.12 lb, 10,000 sq ft), WinterGuard Weed & Feed (11.43 lb, 4,000 sq ft), 2‑Step Liquid Turf Builder (32 oz, 6,000 sq ft warm‑season), Weed & Feed 42.87 lb (3.5–5 lb/1,000 sq ft), Triple Action Weed Control Fertilizer (33.94 lb), Crabgrass Preventer & Fertilizer (13.35 lb), and EZ Feed Plus Weed Control (32 oz). Choose based on grass type, weed spectrum, N‑P‑K ratio, and coverage; follow label timing, spreader settings, and watering rules for best results, and the next section explains each product’s specifics.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the appropriate product for your lawn’s grass type and season (e.g., Southern Triple Action for warm‑season St. Augustine, WinterGuard for cool‑season bluegrass).
- Match the weed spectrum to the product’s claim: broadleaf‑only formulas (e.g., Triple Action) or 50+ weed coverage (e.g., WinterGuard).
- Follow the recommended spreader settings and coverage rates to avoid under‑ or over‑application (e.g., 3½ lb/1,000 sq ft for broadcast).
- Water according to label instructions—immediate watering for some granules, optional or delayed watering for others—to activate nutrients and herbicide.
- Observe timing windows: apply when weeds are actively growing, avoid fertilizing warm‑season grass near frost or extreme heat, and respect post‑application rain‑wait periods.
| Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action Fertilizer 26.64 lb |  | Triple‑Action Power | Form: Granules | Primary Use: Weed + Fertilizer + Ant control | Coverage (sq ft): 8,000 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Fertilizer 28.12 lbs |  | Southern Grass Specialist | Form: Granules (powder) | Primary Use: Fertilizer only | Coverage (sq ft): 10,000 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Weed & Feed 11.43 lb |  | Fall Revival | Form: Granules | Primary Use: Weed + Fertilizer (Fall) | Coverage (sq ft): 4,000 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Scotts Liquid Turf Builder 2‑Step Lawn Care 32 oz |  | Liquid Convenience | Form: Liquid | Primary Use: Weed + Fertilizer (Liquid) | Coverage (sq ft): 6,000 (warm) / 4,000 (cool) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed 42.87 lb |  | Heavy‑Duty Coverage | Form: Granules | Primary Use: Weed + Fertilizer | Coverage (sq ft): 15,000 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Weed Control Fertilizer 33.94 lb |  | Pre‑Emergent Protector | Form: Granules | Primary Use: Weed + Fertilizer + Pre‑emergent | Coverage (sq ft): 12,000 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Scotts Turf Builder Crabgrass Preventer & Fertilizer (13.35 lb) |  | Crabgrass Blocker | Form: Granules | Primary Use: Pre‑emergent + Fertilizer | Coverage (sq ft): 5,000 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Scotts EZ Feed Plus Weed Control 32 oz |  | Spray‑Easy Solution | Form: Liquid | Primary Use: Weed + Fertilizer (Liquid) | Coverage (sq ft): 6,000 (warm) / 4,000 (cool) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action Fertilizer 26.64 lb
If you’re maintaining a Southern‑type lawn and need a single product that kills weeds, blocks fire ants, and feeds the grass, the Scotts Turf Builder Southern Triple Action Fertilizer is the logical pick. You’ll spread the 26.64‑lb bag over up to 8,000 sq ft using a broadcast spreader set to 4¼ or a drop spreader at 8½, then water‑in immediately; the granules dissolve, delivering nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium while the herbicide targets dandelion, dollarweed, clover, oxalis, plantain, chickweed, and henbit, and the fire‑ant component prevents colonies for six months. It works on St. Augustine, Centipede, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass, and it resists heat and drought, so you can trust its performance across typical Southern climates. Follow label instructions, avoid re‑entering until dry, and you’ll see a stronger, weed‑free lawn with minimal effort.
- Form:Granules
- Primary Use:Weed + Fertilizer + Ant control
- Coverage (sq ft):8,000
- Application Tool:Scotts spreader
- Suitable Grass Types:Southern warm‑season grasses (St. Augustine, Centipede, Zoysia, Carpet)
- Active Ingredients (Key):D‑type herbicide + fire‑ant control
- Additional Feature:Fire ant prevention up to 6 months
- Additional Feature:Heat‑ and drought‑resistant formula
- Additional Feature:4¼ broadcast spreader setting
Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Fertilizer 28.12 lbs
Scotts Turf Builder Southern Lawn Fertilizer 28.12 lbs is the top pick for homeowners with warm‑season grasses who need a reliable, all‑in‑one feed that strengthens roots, resists heat, and endures drought. You’ll spread it over up to 10,000 sq ft using a broadcast or rotary spreader set to 3 ½, or a drop spreader set to 6, then water lightly if you want fast results, though watering isn’t required. The powder formulation contains all‑in‑one particles that harness deep root growth and protect against heat and drought, working on wet or dry lawns throughout the growing season. Avoid applying within one month of the first expected frost, and sweep any stray granules from driveways or sidewalks back onto the lawn. Store the remaining product in its original container to maintain effectiveness.
- Form:Granules (powder)
- Primary Use:Fertilizer only
- Coverage (sq ft):10,000
- Application Tool:Scotts spreader
- Suitable Grass Types:Southern warm‑season grasses
- Active Ingredients (Key):Nitrogen‑rich fertilizer (no herbicide)
- Additional Feature:All‑in‑One root particles
- Additional Feature:Watering optional for fast results
- Additional Feature:Not for warm‑season grass near frost
Scotts Turf Builder WinterGuard Weed & Feed 11.43 lb
Homeowners with a mixed‑species lawn who want a single product that both eliminates persistent weeds and restores fall nutrients should consider the TurfGuard WinterGuard Weed & Feed. This 11.43 lb bag covers about 4,000 sq ft and works on Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass, but not on St. Augustinegrass, Dichondra, Lippia, Carpetgrass, or Bentgrass. It kills more than 50 common weeds—clover, dandelion, plantain, morningglory, chicory, eveningprimrose, purslane—while delivering nutrients that help lawns recover from summer stress and emerge healthier in spring. Apply when the lawn is moist, weeds are actively growing, and temperatures sit between 60°F and 90°F; use a spreader set to broadcast/rotary 3 ½ or drop 6, then avoid watering for 24 hours. The product comes in granules, bears UPC 032247005937, and includes a manufacturer’s warranty through customer service.
- Form:Granules
- Primary Use:Weed + Fertilizer (Fall)
- Coverage (sq ft):4,000
- Application Tool:Scotts spreader
- Suitable Grass Types:Cool‑ and warm‑season grasses (Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, etc.)
- Active Ingredients (Key):Broadleaf herbicide + fall fertilizer
- Additional Feature:Fall application for spring recovery
- Additional Feature:No watering for 24 hours post‑apply
- Additional Feature:Excludes St. Augustinegrass
Scotts Liquid Turf Builder 2‑Step Lawn Care 32 oz
For lawns that need both rapid weed suppression and steady nutrient feed, the 32‑oz Scotts Liquid Turf Builder 2‑Step combo delivers a precise, two‑part solution that tackles broadleaf weeds while fertilizing cool‑season and warm‑season grasses. You attach the hose to the sprayer, then apply the Plus 2 Weed Control during active weed growth; it covers up to 6,000 sq ft. warm‑season or 4,000 sq ft. cool‑season grass. Afterward, you spray the Lawn Food, which reaches 2,000 sq ft. and feeds bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass, bermudagrass, centipedegrass, zoysiagrass, and bahiagrass. The formula harnesses 2,4‑D, dimethylamine salt, and Mecroprop‑p salts to target dandelion, clover, ground ivy, and other broadleaf weeds, while delivering balanced nitrogen for steady growth. Follow label timing, water lightly, and you’ll see reduced weed pressure and a thicker, greener lawn.
- Form:Liquid
- Primary Use:Weed + Fertilizer (Liquid)
- Coverage (sq ft):6,000 (warm) / 4,000 (cool)
- Application Tool:Hose‑mounted sprayer
- Suitable Grass Types:Cool‑ and warm‑season grasses (Bluegrass, Fescue, Zoysia, etc.)
- Active Ingredients (Key):2,4‑D, Mecoprop‑p (weed control) + fertilizer
- Additional Feature:Two‑liquid bundle (weed + food)
- Additional Feature:Covers 6,000 sq ft warm‑season
- Additional Feature:Spray‑on hose attachment
Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed 42.87 lb
If you need a single‑application solution that simultaneously kills over 50 common weeds and feeds a lawn, the 42.87‑lb bag of Scotts Turf Builder Weed & Feed delivers exactly that. You’ll spread the granules at 3.5 lb per 1 000 sq ft with a broadcast spreader, or 5 lb per 1 000 sq ft using a drop spreader, while the lawn is moist from dew or watering. The formula’s WeedGrip Technology targets clover, dandelion, plantain, and hidden weeds, then feeds Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, Centipedegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass, and Zoysiagrass to thicken the turf. Avoid St. Augustinegrass, Dichondra, Lippia, Carpetgrass, and Bentgrass, and wait 24 hours before watering or rain. Apply only twice yearly, and expect temporary discoloration on some grasses.
- Form:Granules
- Primary Use:Weed + Fertilizer
- Coverage (sq ft):15,000
- Application Tool:Scotts spreader
- Suitable Grass Types:Cool‑ and warm‑season grasses (Bahiagrass, Bermudagrass, Bluegrass, etc.)
- Active Ingredients (Key):24‑D, Mecoprop‑p (weed control) + fertilizer
- Additional Feature:WeedGrip Technology targets hidden weeds
- Additional Feature:Up to 15,000 sq ft coverage
- Additional Feature:Max two applications per year
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Weed Control Fertilizer 33.94 lb
Scotts Turf Builder Triple Action Weed Control Fertilizer, 33.94 lb bag, targets homeowners who demand a single product that both eliminates common broadleaf weeds and feeds the lawn, covering up to 12,000 sq ft with one application. You’ll apply the granules on a wet lawn using a spreader, then water in after 24 hours to move the particles into the soil and prevent germination. The formula kills dandelion, clover, dollarweed, ground ivy, chickweed, plantain, henbit, and english daisy, while it prevents crabgrass and other grassy weeds for four months. It works on Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, fine fescue, bermudagrass, bahiagrass, centipedegrass, and zoysiagrass. Keep people and pets off the treated area until dust settles.
- Form:Granules
- Primary Use:Weed + Fertilizer + Pre‑emergent
- Coverage (sq ft):12,000
- Application Tool:Scotts spreader
- Suitable Grass Types:Cool‑ and warm‑season grasses (Kentucky Bluegrass, Bermudagrass, Zoysia, etc.)
- Active Ingredients (Key):Pendimethalin, 2,4‑D, Dicamba (weed control) + fertilizer
- Additional Feature:Crabgrass prevention for 4 months
- Additional Feature:Pendimethalin active ingredient
- Additional Feature:12,000 sq ft coverage
Scotts Turf Builder Crabgrass Preventer & Fertilizer (13.35 lb)
Looking for a lawn solution that stops crabgrass before it appears while feeding the grass, the 13.35‑lb bag of Scotts Turf Builder Crabgrass Preventer & Fertilizer delivers exactly that. You’ll spread the granules with a broadcast or rotary spreader set to 3, using a drop setting of 6, on a dry lawn in early spring before the third or fourth mowing, provided temperatures stay below the 80s. The product covers 5,000 sq ft, provides a 30‑0‑4 fertilizer boost, and pre‑emptively blocks crabgrass, barnyard grass, foxtail, poa annua, chickweed, and oxalis. Water ¼‑½ inch within two to three days after application, avoid dichondra or bentgrass, and you’ll see green‑up after winter and a season‑long barrier against grassy weeds.
- Form:Granules
- Primary Use:Pre‑emergent + Fertilizer
- Coverage (sq ft):5,000
- Application Tool:Scotts spreader
- Suitable Grass Types:Warm‑season grasses (Bermuda, St. Augustine, Centipede, Zoysia, etc.)
- Active Ingredients (Key):Pre‑emergent crabgrass inhibitor + fertilizer
- Additional Feature:Pre‑emergent crabgrass blocker
- Additional Feature:30‑0‑4 fertilizer analysis
- Additional Feature:5,000 sq ft coverage
Scotts EZ Feed Plus Weed Control 32 oz
Homeowners with both warm‑season and cool‑season lawns benefit most from this 32‑oz EZ Feed Plus Weed Control because it fertilizes while instantly curbing broadleaf intruders such as dandelion, clover, and ground ivy. You attach the container to a garden hose, spray evenly on a calm day when weeds are actively growing, and the product delivers a balanced nutrient mix that encourages lush grass while its herbicide component curls treated weeds within days. It covers 6,000 sq ft. of warm‑season grasses—bahia, bermuda, centipede, zoysia—and 4,000 sq ft. of cool‑season grasses—bluegrass, fescue, ryegrass. Expect repeat treatment for stubborn species after three to four weeks.
- Form:Liquid
- Primary Use:Weed + Fertilizer (Liquid)
- Coverage (sq ft):6,000 (warm) / 4,000 (cool)
- Application Tool:Hose‑mounted sprayer
- Suitable Grass Types:Warm‑season (Bahia, Bermuda, Centipede, Zoysia) and Cool‑season (Bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass)
- Active Ingredients (Key):2,4‑D, Mecoprop‑p (weed control) + fertilizer
- Additional Feature:Spray‑on liquid formulation
- Additional Feature:Broadleaf weed curl effect
- Additional Feature:6,000 sq ft warm‑season coverage
Factors to Consider When Choosing Scotts Weed and Feed
You should match the product to your grass type, ensure the weed spectrum covers the common intruders, and verify the fertilizer’s nutrient ratio suits your lawn’s needs. Check the application timing guidelines so you apply during best growth phases, and confirm the coverage area efficiency aligns with your yard size. These factors, backed by test data, let you choose a Scotts Weed & Feed that delivers consistent, measurable results.
Grass Type Compatibility
One key factor is matching the product to your grass’s seasonal type, since Scotts formulas list specific compatibilities such as St. Augustus, Centipede, Zoysiagrass, and Carpetgrass for warm‑season lawns, while others support both warm‑ and cool‑season species like bermudagrass, bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue. Check the label for each blend; if it names St. Augustus, you can use it safely on Floratam, but avoid products that flag St. Augustus as unsuitable. For cool‑season lawns, prioritize formulas that mention bluegrass, fescue, or ryegrass, and verify that the granule or liquid form matches your application schedule. Remember to skip fertilization on warm‑season grasses within a month of frost or during extreme heat, because the nutrient release can stress the turf. By aligning species, season, and timing, you harness the product’s intended performance without harming your lawn.
Weed Spectrum Coverage
What weed types does your lawn actually need to fight? You should first identify whether broadleaf weeds such as dandelion, clover, oxalis, plantain, or chickweed dominate, because most Scotts formulas target those species. If crabgrass or other grassy weeds appear, choose a product that adds pre‑emergent control, which prevents new grass weeds rather than killing existing ones. Look for labels that list 50+ weeds, but verify that the specific species you see are included; formulations differ by warm‑season or cool‑season grass suitability, affecting which weeds are suppressed. Follow the recommended re‑application schedule and water after treatment, because timing and moisture directly influence the observed spectrum and overall effectiveness. Selecting a formula that matches your weed profile and grass type ensures consistent, reliable control.
Fertilizer Nutrient Ratio
Which N‑P‑K ratio best matches your lawn’s season and weed pressure? You should first read the bag’s label to confirm the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium percentages, because the ratio tells you how fast the grass will green up and how well it will tolerate stress. Choose a higher first number (N) in spring when you need rapid growth, and a lower N with more K in summer or fall to boost drought resistance and disease resilience. Ensure the ratio aligns with the active herbicide blend, as excessive nitrogen can dilute weed control effectiveness. Compare products side‑by‑side, match the ratio to your soil test results, and select the formula that balances feeding and suppression without over‑fertilizing. This approach maximizes lawn health and keeps weeds at bay.
Application Timing Guidelines
When weeds are actively growing and the lawn stays moist, you should apply Scotts Weed & Feed immediately after a light rain or early‑morning dew, because the damp surface helps the granules adhere and begin working. Use a Scotts broadcast or drop spreader set to the manufacturer’s recommended range—typically 3.5 to 4.5 for broadcast, 5 to 6 for drop—to achieve even coverage without gaps or overlap. Water the area 24 hours after application so granules dissolve into the soil, unless you’re using a liquid formula that calls for immediate watering or none at all. Avoid treating warm‑season grasses within a month of the first expected frost, and never exceed the yearly application limit. Re‑enter the lawn only after the surface dries and any dust settles, ensuring safety and product efficacy.
Coverage Area Efficiency
After you’ve timed the application to match moist conditions, the next step is to gauge how efficiently each product covers your lawn. You should compare bag weight and stated square‑foot coverage, because a 42.87‑lb bag typically blankets up to 15,000 sq ft, while an 11.43‑lb bag reaches only about 4,000 sq ft. Choose larger‑area formulas for yards exceeding 8,000 sq ft, and opt for split‑area or smaller‑lot options if your space is under 5,000 sq ft. Remember that granules and liquids differ: a 32‑oz liquid container usually covers 4,000–6,000 sq ft, so you may need multiple containers for the same area a Granules. Adjust your spreader to the recommended broadcast or drop setting, matching the product’s coverage rate to avoid over‑ or under‑application. This alignment maximizes uniform nutrient distribution and minimizes waste.
Safety and Environmental Impact
Most Scotts weed‑and‑feed formulas require you to wait at least 24 hours before watering or walking on the treated area, a practice that lets the herbicide bind to soil, reduces runoff, and minimizes exposure for pets and children. You should also check that the product matches your grass type; many formulas damage St. Augustinegrass or carpetgrass, so selecting a compatible blend protects the lawn and prevents unnecessary chemical drift. Use a Scotts spreader set to broadcast, rotary, or drop mode as instructed, because even coverage cuts runoff and keeps the herbicide from entering waterways. Pre‑emergent ingredients suppress crabgrass and other weeds, reducing future applications and long‑term environmental load. Following these steps harnesses safety, limits exposure, and supports a healthier ecosystem while maintaining lawn vigor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Scotts Weed & Feed on Newly Seeded Lawns?
Like a seedling waiting for sunshine, you can’t apply Scotts Weed & Feed to a newly seeded lawn until the grass has been mowed and the first true leaves appear, typically after three to four weeks. The fertilizer’s nitrogen can scorch tender shoots, and the herbicide can inhibit germination. Wait until the grass is established, then follow label rates, water lightly, and avoid heavy traffic for 48 hours. This protects seedlings while delivering nutrients.
Will These Products Harm Ornamental Plants Nearby?
Yes, the products can damage ornamental plants if they contact foliage or roots, because the herbicide component targets broadleaf species. Apply the feed only to established grass, keep a buffer zone of at least three feet from shrubs, perennials, and flower beds, and water the area thoroughly after treatment to dilute residues. Use a calibrated spreader, follow label rates, and monitor nearby plants for any signs of stress.
How Often Should I Reapply During the Same Season?
You should reapply every six to eight weeks throughout the growing season, unless rain exceeds half an inch, which washes away the active ingredients. Follow the label’s rate, spreading the product evenly, then water lightly to activate it, and avoid applying on scorching days, when stress reduces efficacy. This schedule, backed by field trials, balances weed control and nutrient release, keeping your lawn lush without over‑loading the soil.
Do I Need to Water Before or After Application?
You should water your lawn after applying the product, not before. Apply the granules to dry grass, wait ten to fifteen minutes for them to settle, then irrigate lightly enough to activate the nutrients and herbicide without washing them away. This timing maximizes absorption, ensures the weed‑control chemicals reach the root zone, and follows the manufacturer’s data showing optimal results when post‑application watering is used.
Can I Combine These Fertilizers With Organic Soil Amendments?
You can combine Scotts Weed & Feed with organic soil amendments, but you should apply them separately to avoid nutrient lockout. First, spread the fertilizer according to label rates, water lightly, then wait 24–48 hours before adding compost, peat moss, or biochar, which will improve soil structure and microbial activity. Test your soil pH and nitrogen levels after each cycle; data from university extension trials show that staggered applications maintain balanced nutrient release and prevent excess nitrogen runoff.
