Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1 is a lawn product with fertilizer and an herbicide.
Applying Evergreen 4 in 1 to your lawn is easy to get a healthier lawn while killing unwanted weeds and moss.
Evergreen 4 in 1 is rich in nitrogen and potassium to encourage grass growth.
But is it safe to use Evergreen 4 in 1 on grass seed?
Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1 should not be used immediately before or after planting grass seed. The product contains a pre-emergent herbicide, which will prevent grass seeds from sprouting.
Keep reading to learn more about Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1 and how to use it.
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What Does Evergreen 4 in 1 Do?
Evergreen 4 in 1 adds essential nutrients to your lawn.
These nutrients include nitrogen and potassium for stronger roots and thicker, greener grass.
Besides being lawn food, Evergreen 4 in 1 contains herbicides to kill pesky weeds.
Evergreen 4 in 1 is also rich in iron sulfate, which is an excellent moss killer.
Due to the selective herbicides in Evergreen 4 in 1, it will attack broadleaf weeds instead of grass.
As long as you follow the correct application rate, this product will not damage healthy grass.
How Long Does It Take for Evergreen 4 in 1 To Work?
Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1 is fast-acting after application.
Within seven days, you will notice a deeper color in your grass, and green moss will begin to turn black as it dies.
Your grass may turn black as well. This is only a temporary effect caused by the high concentration of iron sulfate.
After two weeks, broadleaf weeds will begin to die off.
Remove dead weeds and moss from your lawn so your grass has more room to spread.
Due to the pre-emergent treatment, new weeds will stop sprouting between 3-5 weeks.
You will have a healthy lawn with lush green grass in six weeks.
When To Use Evergreen 4 in 1
The ideal time to use Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1 is between April and September.
Do not use Evergreen 4 in 1 more than twice per year.
Evergreen 4 in 1 works best when weeds are growing.
Apply Evergreen 4 in 1 when the soil is moist, the grass is dry, and there is no danger of frost.
We recommend a three-month interval between applications. This prevents adding too much iron sulfate to your soil.
Excess iron sulfate will turn your grass black for an extended time and may not recover.
Due to the pre-emergent herbicide in Evergreen 4 in 1, you must wait 6-8 weeks to apply it after planting grass seeds.
Once you have planted your grass seeds, do not apply Evergreen 4 in 1 for at least six months. This gives your grass time to sprout and establish a strong root structure.
Without healthy roots, your grass will not be able to recover from damage, and growth may be stunted.
How To Apply Evergreen 4 in 1
Before applying Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1 treatment, check the rain forecast for your area.
In the absence of rain, you must water the lawn treatment within two days after application.
Evergreen 4 in 1 granules must wash into the soil to work.
Any granules left on grass blades may cause burns.
Apply Evergreen 4 in 1 on a calm day. This prevents accidental drift onto flower beds and other desirable plants.
Wear protective clothing, including safety glasses, long sleeves, and sturdy shoes.
Measure your lawn to determine how much Evergreen 4 in 1 you need.
The recommended application rate on the product label is one ounce per square yard.
These preparation steps are necessary. They ensure you apply the correct amount of Evergreen 4 in1 and get the desired results.
Use a broadcast spreader to apply the Evergreen product granules in an even layer.
If you do not own a lawn spreader, your local garden center likely has one to rent.
Fill the spreader away from your lawn, so you do not spill the granules onto your grass.
Make two passes with the broadcast spreader over your lawn to ensure an even application.
On the first pass, go from east to west, and on the second pass, go from north to south. This will prevent green stripe patches from forming.
If you have never used a broadcast spreader before, test a small patch of your lawn to get a feel for how it works.
After applying the Evergreen 4 in 1, water the granules into the soil.
Precautions When Using Evergreen 4 in 1
Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1 is a potent lawn product, so it is wise to take a few precautions when using it.
A few simple steps will help you avoid dangerous situations and unwanted effects.
Evergreen 4 in 1 is toxic when ingested and causes skin irritation upon contact.
Always wear protective clothing when applying Evergreen 4 in 1 to your lawn. This includes gloves and safety glasses.
Do not allow children or pets to walk on your treated grass until it is completely dry.
To be completely safe, keep children and pets away from the treated lawn for at least three days.
Walking on your lawn while still wet from treatment will also leave brown stains on your clothing.
The iron sulfate in Evergreen 4 in 1 oxidizes and will stain any porous surface.
Use caution around cement paving stones and patios to avoid orange stains.
Do not mow your lawn 2-3 days before and after the application of Evergreen 4 in 1.
Bag your lawn clippings for the first four mowings after treatment. This prevents transferring the herbicide chemicals to unwanted areas.
The lawn clippings will be safe to use after composting for at least six months.
Clean up any spills of Evergreen 4 in 1 immediately.
Dispose of the empty container at your nearest hazardous waste facility.
Avoid using Evergreen 4 in 1 near bodies of water and storm drains to prevent contamination.
You may use Evergreen 4 in 1 near trees and plant bulbs, but do not get any of the product on the leaves.
How To Remove Stains Left from Evergreen 4 in 1
Miracle-Gro Evergreen 4 in 1 contains a high amount of iron sulfate.
Iron sulfate leaves orange stains on clothing, concrete, and other porous surfaces.
These stains are rust and are not permanent, but they will not go away on their own.
You must use a powerful rust remover to scrub the stains away.
There are many options, but this rust stain remover is a good choice. It will not harm your grass or nearby plants.
Always do your research before using a rust remover product.
While most rust removers are safe for concrete paving slabs, they may cause damage to natural stone paving.
Follow the directions for use on the product label to avoid causing further damage.
If you prefer a homemade solution without harmful chemicals, lemon juice and baking soda will also lift rust stains.
Apply lemon juice to the stained area, followed by baking soda.
Scrub the stain with a wire brush until it is removed, and rinse with water.
Rinsing the area with water is essential because the lemon juice will lighten the area too much after exposure to sunlight.
Use a laundry cleaner created for rust removal to clean brown stains from clothing.
Avoid oxygenated products, as rust thrives on oxygen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Evergreen 4 in 1 burn grass?
Evergreen 4 in 1 will not burn your grass or cause damage when used correctly.
Your grass may turn black shortly after application, but this is temporary, and your grass will return to its standard green color in 2-3 weeks.
What is the fertilizer analysis of Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1?
Evergreen 4 in 1 has an NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) ratio of 14-0-5.
What if my dog eats Miracle-Gro Evergreen Complete 4 in 1?
If your dog has ingested Evergreen 4 in 1, seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
Take the container of Evergreen 4 in 1 with you to the veterinarian so they can provide the proper treatment.
Does Evergreen 4 in 1 expire?
Evergreen 4 in 1 has a shelf life of 1-4 years if stored in a cool, dry place.
While the fertilizer will still be effective, the herbicides in Evergreen 4 in 1 break down over time.
Final Thoughts On Using Evergreen 4 in 1
Evergreen 4 in 1 will not harm your grass seed when used correctly.
Always follow the directions on the product label.
Remember to take proper safety measures during and after application.
Keep a rust stain remover handy for accidental spills on your patio or walkways.
With proper lawn care, your grass seeds will sprout into a thick, green lawn within weeks.