Weed and feed (W&F) is a combination product designed to address two common lawn issues simultaneously. The fertilizer component contains essential nutrients, typically a blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which stimulates grass growth and improves color. The second component is a selective herbicide, usually a post-emergent type, specifically formulated to control broadleaf weeds like dandelions and clover. Utilizing this dual-action product effectively requires precise preparation, careful application technique, and specific post-treatment care to ensure the fertilizer promotes healthy turf growth while the herbicide successfully eliminates unwanted plants.
Preparing the Lawn for Treatment
The herbicide component is most effective when weeds are actively growing, typically in the spring after the grass emerges from dormancy or again in the early fall. Applying the product too early, while the grass is dormant, wastes nutrients because the turf cannot absorb them. Ideal timing is when soil temperatures consistently range between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
The granular particles must adhere directly to the foliage of broadleaf weeds for the chemical to be absorbed systemically. To ensure this contact, the grass must be damp. This can be achieved naturally by applying the product early in the morning when dew is present or by lightly watering the lawn shortly before starting.
The lawn should be mowed one to two days before spreading the weed and feed. This timing ensures that the weeds have enough leaf surface exposed to catch the granules. It also allows the plants to recover slightly from the stress of mowing.
Choosing and Setting Up Application Equipment
The two primary types of spreaders are the rotary (or broadcast) spreader and the drop spreader. Rotary spreaders use a spinning mechanism to throw granules in a wide swath, making them ideal for large, open lawns. Drop spreaders dispense granules directly below the hopper, resulting in a more precise application better suited for smaller areas or lawns adjacent to sensitive zones like flower beds. Rotary spreaders require careful overlap on each pass to compensate for the material being concentrated heaviest in the center of the swath.
Before application, the spreader must be accurately calibrated to the specific product being used. The product bag provides a suggested setting for various spreader models. Proper calibration prevents over-application, which can lead to grass scorch due to the high salt content in the fertilizer. Walking speed also affects distribution, as a faster pace decreases the application rate and can alter the pattern of rotary spreaders.
The Physical Spreading Technique
Begin by filling the spreader hopper on a hard surface, such as a driveway or sidewalk, rather than directly on the grass. This prevents a concentrated pile of product that would burn the turf if accidental spills occur.
Start the application by creating a perimeter pass around the entire lawn. This border provides a safe zone for turning the spreader around. After the perimeter is established, proceed to spread the product in parallel lines across the main body of the lawn, ensuring the rows are consistently spaced.
The most effective method is to apply the product at half the recommended rate in two passes. The second pass should be applied perpendicular to the first, creating a crosshatch pattern that eliminates missed strips or heavy overlap.
Ensure the spreader’s mechanism is closed whenever you stop or turn. Keeping the hopper shut prevents the granules from dumping in place, which results in circular patches of burned grass. If any granules land on sidewalks or driveways, sweep them back onto the lawn immediately or collect them to prevent runoff.
Essential Post-Application Care
Avoid watering the lawn immediately after application. The granular herbicide needs a specific amount of contact time with the weed foliage to be absorbed before it is washed off. Manufacturers typically advise waiting a minimum of 24 to 48 hours before applying any water to the treated area. Watering too soon dilutes the herbicide and washes the granules off the weed leaves.
Once the waiting period has passed, perform a thorough watering to activate the fertilizer component. This dissolves the granules and moves the nutrients into the soil for root absorption.
Children and pets should be kept off the treated lawn until the product has been watered in and the grass is completely dry. Wait at least 24 to 48 hours before mowing the lawn again. Clippings from the first few mows after treatment should be removed from the site and not used as mulch or compost around vegetables or ornamental plants.