Tools

Supplies

Choose the Right Product

Scotts Foundation
Scotts Foundation soil improver works well on a variety of lawns.

While there are many soil improvers to choose from, Scotts® Foundation is one soil improver that contains natural ingredients to help reduce soil compaction, boost water retention, and support improved soil quality. It is okay to use with all grass and soil types in lawns and gardens. To improve the soil ahead of the growing season, apply this product in the Spring. To improve soil conditions for overseeding and aeration, apply it in the fall.

Reasons to Add a Soil Improver

  • Gives soil the essentials your lawn needs to grow strong roots.
  • Reduces soil compaction for a better root system.
  • Helps boost the water intake and retention for your lawn.

How to Add a Soil Improver to Your Lawn

Step 1 Timing

It is best to apply a soil improver either in the spring or the fall season. To improve the soil ahead of the growing season, apply this product in the spring. This helps your lawn build strong roots to green up faster. To improve soil conditions for overseeding and aeration, apply it in the fall. This can help fortify your lawn for the harshness of winter conditions.

Spring Soil Improver
Apply soil improver in spring to help lawns recover.

Step 2 Measure

It is important to know the size of your lawn, so you know how much product to apply. A 25lb. bag usually covers about 5000 sq. ft. For a quick and easy way to measure, just visit the Ace Yard Rx site and it can generate an automatic measurement of your site. Visit https://www.acehardware.com/aceyardrx

 

Perimeter of lawn
Measure out your lawn square footage to determine how much product you need.

Step 3 Load the Spreader

Granulated products like soil improvers need a spreader to dispense the product. You can use a hand-held spreader, or a broadcast spreader that you walk behind for best results. The product packaging will give guidelines for setting the dial on the spreader to dispense the correct amount.

Lawn Spreader Setting
Set your spreader according to the manufacturer's suggestions.

Step 4 Apply the Product

Using your spreader at the correct setting, first walk around the perimeter of the area you are treating. If your spreader is equipped with an Edge Guard, use that to prevent product from landing on driveways or walkways. Then, use evenly spaced rows to fill in the middle. Any product that lands on walkways can be swept back into the lawn.

Fill in middle
After walking the perimeter with the spreader, fill in the center areas.
PRO TIP
As you walk your path, it is OK to overlap a little on the edges, since coverage is thinner near the edges of the spray pattern.