Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed

When I first moved to my home in the South, I was completely unprepared for the unique challenges of maintaining a southern lawn. Between the aggressive dollarweed that seemed to multiply overnight and the relentless heat that turned my St. Augustine grass into a patchy, yellowish mess, I was ready to throw in the towel. That is, until I discovered Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed – a product specifically formulated for southern lawns that completely transformed my yard from an embarrassment to the envy of the neighborhood.

After five years of trial and error with various lawn care products, I’ve compiled everything I’ve learned about this southern lawn savior into a comprehensive guide that I wish I’d had when I started. Whether you’re battling stubborn weeds or simply want to give your lawn the nutrients it needs to thrive in our unique southern climate, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Exactly Is Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed?

When I first picked up a bag of Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed at my local garden center, I wasn’t entirely sure what made it different from the dozen other lawn care products on the shelf. After extensive research and personal experience, I can now explain what makes this product special.

Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed is a dual-action lawn care product specifically formulated for southern grass varieties. As the name suggests, it performs two essential functions simultaneously: it kills existing weeds while providing vital nutrients to your lawn grass. What makes it unique is its specialized formulation designed to work with warm-season grasses that thrive in the southern United States, such as St. Augustine, Bermuda, Centipede, and Zoysia.

The product contains selective herbicides that target common southern weeds while leaving your grass unharmed. At the same time, it delivers a balanced blend of nutrients that promotes healthy growth, deep root development, and enhanced color in your lawn. The specialized southern formulation is what sets this product apart from generic weed and feed options that might damage your warm-season grass.

When I first applied it to my patchy lawn filled with dollarweed and clover, I was skeptical. But within weeks, I noticed the weeds withering away while my St. Augustine grass began filling in with a rich, vibrant green color I hadn’t seen before.

The Science Behind How It Works

Understanding how Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed works helped me use it more effectively. The product operates through a dual mechanism that simultaneously addresses weeds and fertilizes your lawn.

The “weed” component contains selective herbicides that primarily work through post-emergent action. When applied to your lawn, these herbicides are absorbed through the leaves of broadleaf weeds. The chemicals disrupt the weeds’ growth processes, essentially causing them to grow themselves to death by creating uncontrolled and unsustainable cell division. What’s fascinating is that these herbicides target pathways that exist in broadleaf weeds but not in grass, which is why your lawn remains unharmed while the weeds die off.

The “feed” component delivers essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (commonly referred to as NPK), in ratios specifically calibrated for southern grass varieties. These nutrients support different aspects of plant health:

• Nitrogen promotes leaf and stem growth, giving your lawn that lush, green appearance
• Phosphorus supports root development, helping your grass establish deeper drought resistance
• Potassium enhances overall plant health, disease resistance, and stress tolerance

What impressed me most was how the formulation adapts to the unique needs of southern lawns. Our warm-season grasses have different growth patterns and nutrient requirements compared to cool-season grasses found up north. The Expert Gardener product accounts for these differences, providing a slow-release feeding system that works with our longer growing seasons and higher temperatures.

I noticed that within about 7-10 days after application, weeds began showing signs of stress – curling, yellowing, and eventually dying back. Meanwhile, my grass responded to the fertilizer component within about two weeks, developing a noticeably deeper green color and filling in thin areas.

Application Guide: Getting It Right the First Time

My first attempt at applying Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed was less than perfect. I didn’t read the instructions carefully, applied it unevenly, and ended up with patches of overfertilized grass alongside areas that showed little improvement. Through trial and error, I’ve developed a foolproof application process that ensures optimal results.

Pre-Application Preparation

Before you even open the bag, there are several steps you should take to prepare your lawn:

1. Mow your lawn 1-2 days before application – Cut your grass to its recommended height for your specific variety. For St. Augustine, I keep mine at about 3-3.5 inches. Don’t cut it too short, as the herbicide needs leaf surface area to be absorbed effectively.
2. Wait for the right conditions – Apply the product when your lawn is damp from dew or a light watering, but not soaking wet. The moisture helps the granules stick to weed leaves for better absorption.
3. Check the weather forecast – Aim for a period of at least 24-48 hours without rain in the forecast. Rain can wash away the product before it has time to work.
4. Time of day matters – I’ve found early morning application works best, as it gives the product time to work before the intense afternoon heat.

Application Process

The application itself requires attention to detail for best results:

1. Use the right spreader – A broadcast or rotary spreader works best for even distribution. I use a basic Scotts broadcast spreader with good results.
2. Calibrate your spreader – Check the product packaging for the recommended spreader setting. For my Scotts spreader, I typically use setting 4.5 for this product.
3. Apply in a consistent pattern – I walk at a steady pace in straight lines, slightly overlapping each pass to ensure even coverage. I then make a second pass perpendicular to the first for the most consistent results.
4. Pay special attention to perimeters – I always start by applying around the perimeter of my lawn, then fill in the middle sections. This prevents accidental spreading onto driveways, walkways, or flower beds.
5. Use the right amount – The package will indicate the correct application rate, typically around 2-4 pounds per 1,000 square feet. Applying too much won’t give better results and can actually damage your lawn or create runoff that harms the environment.

When I follow this process, I achieve consistently even application that leads to uniform weed control and feeding across my entire lawn.

Post-Application Care

What you do after applying is just as important as the application itself:

1. Keep people and pets off the lawn – I restrict access to treated areas for at least 24-48 hours, or until after a good watering or rainfall.
2. Watering considerations – If the product instructions call for watering in (some formulations do), I water lightly to activate the fertilizer component without washing away the weed control.
3. Cleanup – I always thoroughly clean my spreader after use to prevent corrosion and cross-contamination with other lawn products.
4. Patience – Results aren’t immediate. I typically see weeds beginning to curl and yellow within 7-10 days, with full results visible after 2-3 weeks.

My neighbor Ryan once applied the product and then immediately watered his lawn heavily, essentially washing away much of the herbicide before it could be absorbed by the weeds. His results were disappointing compared to mine, highlighting the importance of following the post-application instructions carefully.

Weed-Killing Capabilities: What It Tackles and What It Doesn’t

Over the years, I’ve battled virtually every weed common to southern lawns, from the infuriating dollarweed that spreads through my St. Augustine to the prickly sandspur that makes barefoot walks across the lawn a painful experience. Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed has proven effective against most, but not all, of these invaders.

Weeds It Effectively Controls

Based on my experience and research, this product works exceptionally well on the following common southern weeds:

• Dollarweed/Pennywort – This was my primary nemesis, and the product eliminated about 90% of it within three weeks.
• Clover – Both white and hop clover were effectively controlled.
• Dandelions – These common broadleaf weeds began to wither within days.
• Chickweed – Another common southern winter annual that responded well to treatment.
• Henbit – This purple-flowering weed disappeared completely after one application.
• Plantain – Both broadleaf and buckhorn varieties were effectively controlled.
• Virginia Buttonweed – This particularly stubborn weed required two applications but eventually succumbed.
• Spurge – Various spurge varieties showed significant decline after treatment.

Weeds It Struggles With

However, I’ve found that some weeds resist the herbicides in this product:

• Nutsedge – While it showed some impact, yellow and purple nutsedge often require specialized herbicides for complete control.
• Crabgrass – As a grassy weed rather than broadleaf, crabgrass showed minimal response. Pre-emergent applications work better for this weed.
• Dallisgrass – This coarse perennial grass was largely unaffected.
• Bermudagrass (as a weed in other lawns) – When Bermuda invades St. Augustine or Centipede lawns, this product doesn’t selectively remove it.

I’ve learned that for comprehensive weed control, Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed works best as part of a broader lawn care regimen. I use it for broadleaf weed control and supplemental feeding, then address resistant weeds with targeted spot treatments using specialized herbicides.

One spring, after a particularly rainy season, my lawn exploded with dollarweed. After a single application of Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed, the transformation was remarkable – within three weeks, about 90% of the dollarweed had withered away, revealing the healthy St. Augustine grass beneath.

Grass Compatibility: What Thrives and What Suffers

Not all grass types respond equally to weed and feed products, and using the wrong formulation can damage your lawn. Being in the South, we primarily grow warm-season grasses, and Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed is specifically formulated for these varieties.

Compatible Grass Types

Through personal experience and conversations with other lawn enthusiasts in my area, I’ve found that this product works exceptionally well with:

• St. Augustine Grass – My primary lawn grass responded beautifully, with improved color and density.
• Bermudagrass – My backyard Bermuda section showed excellent results, particularly in its recovery from winter dormancy.
• Zoysia – My neighbor’s Zoysia lawn showed remarkable improvement in both weed control and overall health.
• Centipede Grass – Though I don’t have centipede personally, friends with this grass type report good results when used at the lower end of the recommended application rate.
• Bahiagrass – This common southern pasture grass also responds well to the treatment.

Incompatible Grass Types

However, I would caution against using this product on:

• Fescue or other cool-season grasses – Even in transition zones where these might be grown, the formulation can be too harsh.
• St. Augustine “Floratam” variety – This specific variety can show increased sensitivity to certain herbicides, so proceed with caution and perhaps use a reduced application rate.
• Newly seeded or sodded lawns – Any lawn less than 3-4 months old is too vulnerable to the herbicide components.
• Stressed lawns – If your grass is already struggling from drought, disease, or insect damage, treat these issues first before applying weed and feed.

I learned about grass compatibility the hard way. When I first moved in, I had a small section of fescue in a shadier part of my yard, and I applied the product uniformly across my entire lawn. While my St. Augustine thrived, the fescue section showed signs of stress and thinning. I’ve since replaced that area with shade-tolerant St. Augustine, which responds much better to this product.

Timing Is Everything: Seasonal Application Guide

One of the most common mistakes I see neighbors make is applying lawn products at the wrong time of year. With Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed, timing your application strategically throughout the year maximizes effectiveness while minimizing potential lawn stress.

Spring Application (March-May)

Spring is typically the primary application season for this product in southern lawns. I aim for application when:

• My lawn has fully greened up after winter dormancy
• Soil temperatures have consistently reached 65-70°F
• Most weeds are actively growing but still young
• There’s no forecast of temperatures exceeding 85°F for several days

I’ve found that applying in mid-to-late April in my zone (8b) yields the best results, as it catches spring weeds when they’re most vulnerable while giving my grass a nutrient boost just as it enters its primary growing season.

Summer Application (June-August)

Summer applications require more caution:

• I avoid applying during the hottest parts of summer (typically July)
• If summer application is necessary, I use a reduced rate (about 75% of spring rate)
• I only apply in early morning when temperatures are cooler
• I ensure my lawn isn’t drought-stressed before application

Last summer, I made the mistake of applying during a particularly hot week in July. Even though I watered properly, some areas of my lawn showed signs of stress. I’ve since learned to avoid midsummer applications except in cases of severe weed pressure.

Fall Application (September-November)

Fall applications can be beneficial in the South because:

• Many winter weeds begin germinating in early fall
• Our warm-season grasses are still actively growing
• The product can help strengthen grass before winter dormancy

I typically do a light fall application in late September or early October, which helps control winter annuals like chickweed and henbit before they become established.

Winter (December-February)

I avoid winter applications entirely because:

• Warm-season grasses are dormant and won’t benefit from the fertilizer
• Herbicides are less effective in colder temperatures
• There’s increased risk of runoff due to slower soil biological activity

One year, a well-meaning but misguided neighbor applied a weed and feed product to his dormant Bermuda lawn in January. Not only did it fail to control his winter weeds effectively, but the unused fertilizer components likely leached away before his grass broke dormancy in spring.

Results Timeline: Managing Expectations

Patience is essential when using lawn care products. When I first started using Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed, I expected overnight miracles. Reality taught me that results follow a predictable timeline, and understanding this helped me avoid disappointment and unnecessary reapplications.

Short-Term Results (1-7 Days)

In the first week after application, I typically observe:

• Some sensitive weeds (like young dandelions) may begin showing slight curling or discoloration
• No visible changes to the grass itself
• Granules dissolving, especially after morning dew or light watering

This initial period is when the herbicide components begin to be absorbed by weed leaves, but visible effects are minimal.

Medium-Term Results (7-21 Days)

This is when the transformation begins in earnest:

• Most targeted weeds show significant decline (yellowing, curling, browning)
• Grass begins responding to fertilizer with deeper green coloration
• Thin areas may show signs of filling in as tillers develop
• Dollarweed and clover typically show 50-70% reduction by day 14

During this phase, I start to feel the satisfaction of seeing the product work. The contrast between dying weeds and increasingly vibrant grass becomes apparent.

Long-Term Results (21-60 Days)

The full benefits emerge over this extended period:

• Most susceptible weeds have died completely
• Grass demonstrates thicker growth and more uniform color
• Root systems develop more extensively, improving drought resistance
• Overall lawn density improves as grass fills spaces formerly occupied by weeds

After a full 60 days from application, my lawn typically looks dramatically improved compared to pre-treatment conditions. The transformation isn’t immediate, but it’s comprehensive when you follow the proper application guidelines.

Last spring, my next-door neighbor and I applied the product on the same weekend. He became discouraged after a week with minimal visible results and applied a second heavy dose, thinking the first hadn’t worked. Two weeks later, his lawn showed signs of fertilizer burn while mine was transforming beautifully. His impatience actually set his lawn care back significantly.

Safety Considerations: Protecting Your Family and Pets

As a dog owner and parent, I’m especially concerned about using lawn chemicals safely. Through research and experience, I’ve developed protocols for using Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed responsibly while minimizing risks to my family and pets.

Application Safety

During the application process:

• I always wear gloves, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes
• I use a dust mask when opening the bag and filling the spreader
• I keep children and pets indoors during application
• I immediately clean any granules that land on driveways or walkways to prevent runoff
• I wash my hands and change clothes immediately after application

Post-Application Safety Period

After applying the product:

• I keep children and pets off the lawn for a minimum of 24-48 hours
• If I’ve watered in the product (when directed by the instructions), I extend the waiting period until the grass is completely dry
• I place temporary flags or markers to remind family members which areas have been treated
• I store any unused product in its original container, tightly sealed, in a locked cabinet away from children and pets

Long-Term Safety Considerations

For ongoing safety:

• I maintain detailed records of when and where I’ve applied lawn chemicals
• I limit the total number of chemical applications to my lawn each year
• I consider using organic alternatives in play areas or pet relief zones
• I’m careful not to track granules inside on shoes after application

While the manufacturer provides specific waiting periods before the lawn is safe for reentry, I always err on the side of caution and extend these waiting periods, especially for children and pets who may have direct contact with the grass.

A few years ago, before I developed these strict protocols, my dog managed to walk across a freshly treated area and later licked her paws. Though she didn’t become ill, the incident prompted me to develop much more rigorous safety measures that I now follow religiously.

Environmental Considerations: Being a Responsible Steward

As my understanding of lawn care has evolved, so has my awareness of environmental impacts. While Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed is effective, I’ve learned important lessons about minimizing its environmental footprint.

Preventing Runoff

To prevent chemicals from entering waterways:

• I never apply before heavy rain is forecast
• I create buffer zones near water features, leaving 10-15 feet untreated
• I immediately sweep up any product that lands on impermeable surfaces
• I’ve installed rain gardens and bioswales in strategic locations to capture potential runoff
• I avoid application to saturated soils that cannot effectively absorb the product

Reducing Overall Chemical Usage

I’ve developed strategies to minimize the amount of product needed:

• I spot-treat persistent weeds rather than making whole-lawn applications when possible
• I’ve incorporated more native plants in certain areas, reducing the total lawn area requiring treatment
• I maintain proper mowing height (3-4 inches for St. Augustine), which naturally suppresses many weeds
• I supplement with organic top-dressing and compost to improve soil health, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers

Protecting Beneficial Organisms

To preserve the beneficial insects and soil microorganisms that contribute to lawn health:

• I avoid application during peak pollinator activity
• I’ve installed pollinator gardens away from treated areas
• I incorporate organic matter into my soil to support microorganism populations
• I time applications to minimize impact on beneficial insect life cycles

My neighbor maintains a completely organic lawn, and while I admire his commitment, I’ve found that a balanced approach works best for me—using Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed strategically while implementing organic practices where possible. This integrated approach has allowed me to reduce my chemical usage by about 40% over the past three years while maintaining an attractive lawn.

Storage and Handling Tips

Proper storage and handling of lawn chemicals is essential for maintaining their effectiveness and ensuring safety. I’ve developed these practices through experience:

Storage Conditions

I store unused product:

• In its original container with the label intact
• In a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight
• On a high shelf in my locked garden shed
• Away from food, seeds, or other consumables
• Away from fertilizers containing lime, as mixing can reduce effectiveness

Handling for Reuse

When reusing partially used bags:

• I tightly roll the top of the bag and secure it with heavy-duty clips
• I place the bag inside a sealed plastic container for additional protection
• I label the container with the date of opening
• I check for clumping before reuse and break up any hardened material

Shelf Life Considerations

Through experience, I’ve learned that:

• Unopened bags remain effective for approximately 2-3 years
• Once opened, effectiveness begins to decline after about 1 year
• The fertilizer components may remain viable longer than the herbicide components
• If the product develops a strong ammonia smell, it’s beginning to break down and should be replaced

Last fall, I used the remainder of a bag I had opened nearly two years earlier. While it still provided some fertilization benefits, the weed control was noticeably less effective than with fresh product. I now make a point of purchasing only what I can use within a single season, or at most within 12 months.

Comparative Analysis: How Does It Stack Up?

Having tried numerous lawn care products over the years, I can offer some perspective on how Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed compares to alternatives:

Versus National Brands

Compared to well-known national brands like Scotts and Sta-Green:

• Price point: Expert Gardener is typically 15-25% less expensive per square foot of coverage
• Effectiveness: In my experience, weed control is comparable to premium brands
• Fertilizer quality: Nitrogen sources appear to be slightly less slow-release than premium brands
• Availability: More limited distribution, primarily through specific retailers

Versus Organic Alternatives

Compared to organic weed and feed options:

• Speed of results: Expert Gardener works significantly faster on weeds (days versus weeks)
• Long-term soil health: Organic options better support soil biology over time
• Environmental impact: Organic options have lower environmental impact but require more frequent application
• Cost efficiency: Expert Gardener provides more immediate results per dollar spent

Versus Professional Lawn Services

Compared to hiring professional lawn care:

• Cost: DIY application saves approximately 70-80% compared to professional services
• Control: I can tailor application timing and rates to my lawn’s specific needs
• Results: Professional results often look slightly better due to their use of commercial-grade products and precision equipment
• Time investment: Requires personal time and equipment versus the convenience of professional service

After trying a professional service for one season, I returned to DIY application with Expert Gardener products. While the professional results were slightly more uniform, the significant cost difference and my ability to control exactly what goes on my lawn made self-application more appealing.

My neighbor uses a high-end organic program that costs nearly three times what I spend. While his lawn is certainly healthy, mine maintains comparable appearance with conventional products used judiciously, though I acknowledge the long-term soil health benefits of his approach.

Where to Buy and Price Considerations

Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed is somewhat more limited in availability than some national brands, but with some shopping strategies, you can find it reliably and sometimes at significant savings.

Primary Retailers

In my experience, the product is most commonly available at:

• Walmart (primary distributor of the Expert Gardener brand)
• Select regional garden centers
• Some farm supply stores
• Occasionally through online retailers, though shipping costs can be prohibitive due to weight

Pricing Patterns

I’ve tracked pricing over several seasons and noticed these patterns:

• Seasonal fluctuations: Prices typically drop by 15-25% during early spring and fall promotions
• Bag size economics: The cost per pound decreases significantly with larger bags
• End-of-season clearance: Substantial discounts (sometimes 40%+) appear as seasons change, though selection may be limited
• Quantity discounts: Some retailers offer “buy more, save more” promotions when purchasing multiple bags

Value Assessment

For a typical 5,000 square foot southern lawn like mine:

• A single application costs approximately $25-40 depending on bag size and current pricing
• This compares favorably to premium national brands that would cost $35-55 for the same coverage
• Professional service application of comparable products would cost $60-100 for a single treatment

I’ve developed a habit of purchasing at the end of the fall season for the following spring, taking advantage of clearance pricing. Last year, I saved nearly 50% by buying in November for my April application.

My Personal Journey: From Lawn Disaster to Neighborhood Showcase

When I first moved into my southern home, the lawn was a disaster—patchy, weed-filled, and lacking the lush green I envisioned. My journey with Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed began out of desperation but evolved into a systematic approach that transformed my yard.

The First Year: Trial and Error

My initial attempts were less than perfect:

• I applied too heavily in some areas, causing temporary fertilizer burn
• I didn’t properly calibrate my spreader, resulting in striping effects
• I expected faster results and became discouraged when weeds didn’t immediately disappear
• I made the mistake of applying during a hot spell, stressing my St. Augustine

Despite these mistakes, I saw enough improvement to continue refining my approach.

The Second Year: Refining My Technique

With some experience under my belt:

• I developed a more precise application pattern
• I timed applications better, avoiding the hottest parts of summer
• I integrated pre-emergent herbicides into my program for better year-round control
• I began keeping detailed records of application dates and results

By the end of the second year, my lawn had improved dramatically, with about 70% fewer weeds and much more consistent color.

Years Three Through Five: Mastering the System

As I gained experience:

• I reduced application rates slightly while maintaining effectiveness
• I developed the two-directional application pattern that ensures complete coverage
• I implemented safety zones around my vegetable garden and near water features
• I incorporated complementary organic practices like compost top-dressing

Today, in my fifth year using this product as part of my lawn care regimen, my yard has become a source of pride. The transformation has been remarkable—from an embarrassing eyesore to what my neighbors now consider the standard to aspire to on our street.

Final Thoughts: Finding Balance in Lawn Care

After years of working with Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed and various lawn care approaches, I’ve come to appreciate that effective lawn care is about finding the right balance between aesthetics, environmental responsibility, and practical maintenance.

This product has been a cornerstone of my lawn care program, but I’ve learned to use it as part of a holistic approach. I’ve reduced my reliance on chemicals over time while maintaining the green, weed-free lawn I enjoy.

For those considering Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed, I offer this advice: Use it thoughtfully, follow directions meticulously, implement proper safety protocols, and complement it with organic practices where possible. The results can be truly transformative when the product is used responsibly as part of a comprehensive lawn care strategy.

My journey from lawn disaster to neighborhood showcase hasn’t been without missteps, but the learning process has been rewarding. There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a patchy, weed-infested yard into a lush green carpet that enhances your home and provides a beautiful outdoor space for family and friends to enjoy.

Whether you’re a lawn care novice facing your first weed invasion or a seasoned gardener looking to refine your approach, I hope my experiences with Expert Gardener Southern Weed And Feed help you on your journey to a healthier, more beautiful southern lawn.