Weed and feed (W&F) products combine granular fertilizer with a broadleaf herbicide in a single formulation. The fertilizer delivers essential nutrients, while the herbicide targets weeds like dandelions and clover. Since W&F is granular, an even application rate is crucial for effectiveness, typically achieved with a mechanical spreader. Applying W&F without a spreader requires careful preparation and manual techniques to prevent turf burns and ensure the herbicide works properly.
Essential Preparations Before Application
Before dispersing any granules, the applicator must take safety and measurement precautions, as manual application increases the risk of direct contact and uneven distribution. Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary to minimize skin and eye exposure to the chemical components. PPE includes long sleeves, pants, closed-toe shoes, gloves, and eye protection. The “weed” portion often contains potent phenoxy herbicides like 2,4-D or dicamba.
Accurate measurement of the lawn area is fundamental when a spreader is unavailable. Calculate the total square footage to avoid over-application, which can scorch the grass due to the fertilizer’s high salt content. Consult the product label to determine the exact amount of W&F required for that space, usually measured in pounds per thousand square feet. This quantity must be strictly adhered to, forming the basis for dividing the product into smaller, manageable portions for manual spreading.
The lawn must be prepared to maximize the herbicide’s effectiveness. Mow the grass two to four days before application; this timing ensures weeds are actively growing and have enough leaf surface area exposed to catch the granules. W&F products containing post-emergent herbicides require the weed leaves to be damp or moist so the granules stick to the foliage. Applying the product in the morning when dew is present is a simple way to meet this requirement, as the herbicide must adhere to the leaf surface for absorption.
Manual Application Techniques
Applying a precise and even layer of granules manually is challenging and creates a high risk of streaking or chemical burn. To manage this risk, the “measure and divide” principle is crucial. The calculated total product must be split into equal portions corresponding to measured subsections of the lawn. For example, if one pound is needed for 500 square feet, measure that pound and mark off a 500 square foot zone. This ensures the correct rate is applied to that specific area before moving on.
One common manual technique is the “scoop and toss” method, using a small, consistent measuring cup or scoop to dispense the granules. The applicator should walk slowly and steadily, tossing the product low to the ground in a smooth, sweeping motion. This motion achieves the broadest, most uniform arc possible. Each pass must slightly overlap the previous one to avoid leaving untreated gaps that result in visible streaks or surviving weeds.
A slightly more controlled alternative is modifying a container for a rudimentary shaker, such as a bucket or coffee can with small holes poked in the bottom. This method works best if the W&F granules are fine enough to pass through the holes without clogging. The technique still demands a slow, methodical walk across the lawn, shaking the container consistently to maintain a steady flow rate. Manual application inherently risks over-application in certain spots, which can lead to localized “burning” or scorching of the turf due to excessive fertilizer salts.
Immediate Post-Application Requirements
After the granules have been applied, the post-application phase is critical for product efficacy and safety. Do not water the lawn for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours following application. This delay is necessary because the herbicide needs time to be absorbed by the broadleaf weeds. Watering too soon would wash the granules off the leaves before they can take effect.
Avoid mowing for several days after treatment to ensure the herbicide has sufficient time to translocate and begin working. Disturbing the treated weeds or removing the leaf tissue prematurely will diminish the weed-killing action. Always check the product label for the specific waiting period; however, a three to four-day no-mow window is generally recommended.
Restrict the treated area from foot and pet traffic until the product has been watered in and the granules have completely dissolved. Herbicide residues can be tracked indoors on shoes or paws, posing an exposure risk to children and pets. Once the waiting period has passed, thoroughly water the lawn with about a half-inch of water. This helps dissolve remaining granules and moves the fertilizer component into the soil. Finally, thoroughly clean all temporary application tools, such as scoops and containers. Sweep any granules that landed on hard surfaces like driveways or sidewalks back onto the lawn to prevent runoff.