Trump Praises Scotts Miracle-Gro for White House Restoration Efforts

President Donald Trump recognized Scotts Miracle-Gro during an Oval Office appearance. He commended the lawn-and-garden company for contributing to the restoration of the White House grounds at no cost. Speaking to journalists, Trump mentioned that Scotts would provide “the best grass you can get” for parks in Washington, D.C. “They do great grass. What can I tell you? I gotta give them a plug because they did the White House for free,” he added.

Trump explained that he accepted an offer from a “friend” regarding the replacement of the White House lawn. “I said, ‘I’ll take it. How much?’ He said, ‘Free,’” Trump shared.

A White House spokesperson highlighted the president’s commitment to enhancing the appearance of the White House. According to the spokesperson, since announcing the plan, numerous offers have poured in from individuals and companies eager to contribute.

President Trump is generously donating his time and resources to beautify the People’s House, a project which past presidents only dreamed about. Since announcing this historic plan, the White House has been inundated with calls from generous Americans and American companies wishing to contribute, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle told Newsweek on Tuesday.

A Free South Lawn Restoration

The comments came after a June announcement from Scotts Miracle-Gro. The company pledged $1 million in funds, products, and technical support to the National Park Service to aid the South Lawn restoration. This followed the UFC Freedom 250 event held there on June 14.

Scotts mentioned their plans to utilize a custom turfgrass blend specifically developed for the South Lawn. Trump reportedly chose the blend from eight options provided by Scotts. Jim Hagedorn, then chairman and CEO of the company, referred to the South Lawn as “a living piece of U.S. history” and highlighted the contribution to the “nation’s most recognizable backyard.”

According to campaign finance records, Scotts Miracle-Gro and affiliates contributed $770,496 during the 2024 cycle. This includes $500,000 to Make America Great Again Inc., a major pro-Trump super PAC.

Glyphosate Prioritization

The White House’s initiative came after Trump signed an executive order in February. The order prioritized supplies of elemental phosphorus and glyphosate-based herbicides using the Defense Production Act (DPA). It emphasized the critical role of glyphosate-based herbicides in U.S. agriculture. The order directed the agriculture secretary to ensure a continued supply of these products. This move raised concerns among scientists and environmentalists.

Scotts Miracle-Gro was not directly named in the order. However, the company plays a significant role in the consumer Roundup market as the “exclusive agent” for marketing and distributing certain Monsanto products in the U.S. since 1998.

Roundup Litigation

Bayer, facing litigation over Roundup and glyphosate, continues to assert that the product is safe. A Supreme Court decision in June, reported by Newsweek, strengthened Monsanto’s position in these cases by potentially blocking lawsuits alleging health risks associated with the weedkiller.

Future Developments

The Scotts Miracle-Gro lawn project is part of a broader initiative led by Trump to remodel the White House complex and its grounds. Other updates under his leadership include new flagpoles on the North and South Lawns, Rose Garden modifications, and significant Oval Office renovations. The construction of a new White House ballroom, intended to host larger state events, is also underway. This has sparked controversy over costs, aesthetics, and historical impact.

While some criticize these changes, supporters argue they address logistical needs and modernize the White House. With additional offers from the public and companies for improvement projects, further developments might follow as Trump’s vision for the presidential campus expands.