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Scotts Miracle-Gro

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Employees 5001-10,000
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FY2013 Annual Report · Scotts Miracle-Gro
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OUR VISION: 
To help people of all ages 
express themselves on their 
own piece of the Earth.

2013 Annual Report

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
(in millions, except per share data)

Net sales 
Cost of sales  
Gross profit  
Operating expenses, net 
Impairment, restructuring and other charges
     including product registration and recall matters   
Income from operations  
Interest expense  
Income from continuing operations before taxes  
Income tax expense from continuing operations 
Income from continuing operations 
Diluted income per share from continuing
     operations  
Adjusted income from continuing operations1 
Adjusted diluted income per share from
     continuing operations  
Adjusted EBITDA  

  $ 

  2013 
  $ 2,816.5 
  1,834.1 
  982.4 
 651.1  

 18.1  
  313.2 
59.2  
  254.0  
 92.8  
161.2 

  $  2.58  
  $  174.4  

  $  2.79 
  $  390.5 

2012
$ 2,826.1
  1,864.8
 961.3
  702.8

14.9
 243.6
61.8
181.8
68.6
113.2

1.82
124.9

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 
2.01
$  302.9

1Adjusted results exclude charges related to product registration and recall matters, as well as impairment,
  restructuring and other charges.

GRO1000 — Transforming Communities One Garden at a Time

Our commitment to garden and green space development includes
GRO1000—our signature community outreach program. Launched in
2011, GRO1000 will result in the creation of 1,000 community gardens
and green spaces by 2018—the Company’s 150th anniversary.

To date, we have created nearly 400 community gardens in the U.S.
We’re honored to bring the benefits that gardens and green spaces
provide to more and more neighborhoods, schools and communities,
particularly those in need.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DEAR SHAREHOLDERS

I have spent nearly my entire life in or around the lawn and garden industry. 

No matter how prepared you are for the growing season to arrive, each 

year has a unique character. Some years, you know by the end of May 

whether it’s going to be a good year. Other years, you don’t know until the 

very end. After a late start to the 2013 season, it wasn’t until September 

that we were able to step back and acknowledge our accomplishments, 

which were due to the hard work and continued focus of our associates. 

Entering the year, we said we would budget 
conservatively in 2013 and focus on driving 
margin improvement and operating cash flow. 
We said we would de-lever the balance sheet 
and adopt a bias of returning two-thirds of 
our cash to shareholders, and the remaining 
one-third would be used to grow the business, 
including acquisitions that were easily 
integrated into our existing operations. Every 
major effort of our team was in keeping with 
these commitments.

In our core North America business, we  
drove significant profit improvement in a flat 
category while maintaining overall market 
share. In aggregate, market share in the U.S. 
was essentially flat, after a 200 basis point 
improvement in fiscal 2012. Consumer 
purchases of our products at our largest 
retailers in the U.S. were in line with the 
previous year, as were our consolidated net 
sales at $2.82 billion. 

In our international consumer business, we 
successfully executed a restructuring effort in 
Europe that will result in higher profitability in 
fiscal 2014. In addition, our Scotts LawnService 
business saw mid-single digit sales growth and 
continued improvement in operating margin. 
Our LawnService business continues to show 
steady growth and strong long-term prospects.

On a company-wide basis, we delivered 
adjusted gross margin improvement of 100 
basis points and operating margin 
improvement of 260 basis points. We 

reduced investments in selling, media, 
marketing and other SG&A, reductions that 
we believe are sustainable and will not impact 
our long-term commitment to growth. As a 
result of these efforts, we delivered adjusted 
earnings of $2.79 per share, slightly above 
the guidance range we expected heading into 
the year. Our inventory management helped 
drive operating cash flow to $342 million 
dollars, which was better than what we 
expected. In terms of using cash, we 
announced a 35% increase in our quarterly 
dividend and in the early weeks in fiscal 2014 
announced an acquisition that will strengthen 
our market position in the controls category. 

Fiscal 2013 was a year where we were 
focused on making good on our 
commitments, even with slightly lower 
revenue growth than we originally expected, 
we achieved what we set out to do. We made 
significant progress in restoring the 
profitability of our core business and ended 
the year with a strong balance sheet. 

As CEO, I am less encouraged by what we did 
than how we did it. Indeed, weather delays 
meant that the lawn and garden category got 
off to a slow start in nearly every global market 
in which we compete except the western U.S. 
We entered April with a year-to-date decline 
in U.S. consumer purchases of 28%. While 
we were clearly behind our internal plan 
entering the second half of the fiscal year, our 
team remained focused on execution and 
keeping retailers and consumers engaged. 

1

At the peak of our season, we have more  
than 8,000 associates. Every one of them 
contributed to the success we had in 2013, 
and I want to thank them for a job well done. 
However, we know we still have work to do. 
As we prepare for a new season, we do so 
with the belief that there are significant 
opportunities to do even better.

As we look ahead, my conservative view of 
the marketplace has not changed. While the 
broader macroeconomic trends have shown 
signs of steady improvement, top-line growth 
and category expansion are still hard to come 
by. In the U.S., a housing resurgence, stable 
gasoline prices and a strong stock market are 
encouraging. However, I continue to believe 
discretionary spending will accelerate at a 
slower pace. And while consumers seem to be 
turning a deaf ear to Washington infighting, 
I’m convinced the economy will remain 
sluggish until our political leaders can find a 
more collaborative approach to governing.

As a result, we once again expect unit volume 
will likely be flat in 2014. While we believe 
modest price increases and the benefit from 
tuck-in acquisitions will result in positive 
sales growth, we are not planning for an 
increased level of consumer engagement in 
the near-term.

That said, we are aggressively working to put 
ourselves in a better position to drive category 
growth and market share improvements 
starting in 2015 and beyond. I’m convinced 
that longer-term growth is out there and 
we’re focused on achieving it with initiatives 
such as the following:

•  Scotts LawnService has strong organic 
growth opportunities, as well as the 
ability for high-margin acquired growth 
in both lawn and pest control services.

•  Urban gardening is a big opportunity  
for us, as more and more people move 
from the suburbs to the city, and we  
have a team with the singular focus of 
urban gardening.

•  Consumers continue to engage with 
natural and organic lawn and garden 
products, and we are testing a new line 
of organic Miracle-Gro products in 2014.

•  Grass seed is one of our oldest 

businesses, but the scientific advances  
in seeds are creating significant 
opportunities for future growth.

•  We are exploring formulation changes 
and new active ingredients in our lawn 
fertilizer business that would improve 
the consumer experience.

As we look ahead, it’s with the excitement 
and confidence that we can continue to drive 
this business to new heights and further 
improve our market leadership. But it is also 
with the realization that in order to fully 
achieve our potential we must maintain 
financial discipline. We will continue to focus 
on margins and reducing costs, while 
balancing near-term goals with the long-term 
health of our brands and existing businesses. 
We will continue to invest in innovation and 
our people. And we remain focused on 
strengthening our core North America 
business. The combination of all these efforts 
should allow us to drive strong operating cash 
flow and continue to execute against 
shareholder-friendly initiatives. 

Our entire team takes great pride in our  
fiscal 2013 accomplishments. We have 
demonstrated our ability to move in one 
direction to deliver value for our consumers, 
retailers and shareholders. I am confident in 
our business plan and continued momentum 
in fiscal 2014 should allow us to drive strong 
total shareholder return in the new year.

Regards,

Jim Hagedorn
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 
December 2013

2

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
______________________________________________________________ 
Form 10-K

(Mark One)

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 

OR

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                      to

Commission file number 1-11593
______________________________________________________________  

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Ohio

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

14111 Scottslawn Road,
Marysville, Ohio
(Address of principal executive offices)

31-1414921

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

43041
(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
937-644-0011
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class
Common Shares, without par value

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
______________________________________________________________ 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such 
filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File 
required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such 
shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, 
and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of 
this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. 

See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer

Non-accelerated filer

   (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Smaller reporting company

Accelerated filer

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).    Yes  

    No  

The aggregate market value of Common Shares (the only common equity of the registrant) held by non-affiliates as of March 30, 2013 (the last 

business day of the most recently completed second quarter) was approximately $1,892,511,413.

There were 61,985,318 Common Shares of the registrant outstanding as of November 13, 2013.

______________________________________________________________ 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement for the registrant’s 2014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III of 

this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 1. 

BUSINESS

Company Description and Development of the Business

PART I

The discussion below provides a brief description of the business conducted by The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (“Scotts 
Miracle-Gro” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company,” “we” or “us”), including general developments in the Company’s 
business  during  the  fiscal  year  ended  September 30,  2013  (“fiscal  2013”).    For  additional  information  on  recent  business 
developments,  see  “ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S  DISCUSSION  AND  ANALYSIS  OF  FINANCIAL  CONDITION  AND 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

We are a leading manufacturer and marketer of branded consumer lawn and garden products.  Our products are marketed 
under some of the most recognized brand names in the industry, including, in North America, Scotts® and Turf Builder® lawn and 
grass seed products, including the Scotts® LawnPro® Annual 4 Step® Program; Miracle-Gro®, Scotts®, Liquafeed® and Osmocote®1 
gardening and landscape products; Ortho®, Roundup®2 and Home Defense® branded insect control, weed control and rodenticide 
products; and Scotts® and Morning Song® wild bird food products.  In the United Kingdom, key brands include Miracle-Gro® 
plant  fertilizers;  Weedol®  and  Pathclear®  herbicides;  EverGreen®  lawn  fertilizers;  and  Levington®  gardening  and  landscape 
products.  Other significant brands in Europe include KB® and Fertiligène® in France; Celaflor®, Nexa Lotte® and Substral® in 
Germany and Austria; and ASEF®, KB® and Substral® in Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg.  We also operate the Scotts 
LawnService® business, which provides residential and commercial lawn care, tree and shrub care and limited pest control services 
in the United States.

Our heritage is tied to the 1995 merger of The Scotts Company, which traces its roots to a company founded by O.M. Scott 
in Marysville, Ohio in 1868, and Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, Inc., which was formed on Long Island, New York by Horace 
Hagedorn and Otto Stern in 1951.  Scotts Miracle-Gro is an Ohio corporation.

We are dedicated to delivering strong, long-term financial results and outstanding shareholder returns by providing products 
of superior quality and value to enhance consumers’ lawn and garden environments.  In fiscal 2013, we progressed a number of 
key initiatives which focused on: (1) margin improvement and SG&A reduction and (2) stronger balance sheet and operating cash 
flow with a bias towards returning cash to shareholders.  After a late start to the season impacting first half results, strong consumer 
engagement and our initiatives came together in the second half of the year to lift full year results.  We also continued our long 
term focus on innovation and global expansion.

Business Segments

We divide our business into the following reportable segments:

•

•

Global Consumer

Scotts LawnService®

This division of reportable segments is consistent with how the segments report to and are managed by our Chief Executive 
Officer (the chief operating decision maker of the Company).  Financial information about these segments for each of the three 
years ended September 30 is presented in “NOTE 21.  SEGMENT INFORMATION” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial 
Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Principal Products and Services

Global Consumer

In our Global Consumer segment, we manufacture and market consumer lawn and garden products in the following categories:

_____________
1 Osmocote® is a registered trademark of Everris International B.V., a subsidiary of Israel Chemicals Ltd.
2 Roundup® is a registered trademark of Monsanto Technology LLC, a company affiliated with Monsanto Company 

("Monsanto")

2

Lawn Care: The lawn care category is designed to help consumers obtain and enjoy the lawn they want.  In the United 
States, products within this category include fertilizer products under the Scotts® and Turf Builder® brand names, grass seed 
products under the Scotts®, Turf Builder®, EZ Seed®, Water Smart® and PatchMaster® brand names and lawn-related weed, pest 
and disease control products primarily under the Scotts® and Lawn Pro® brand names, including sub-brands such as GrubEx®.  A 
similar range of products is marketed in Europe under a variety of brands such as EverGreen®, Fertiligène®, Substral®, Miracle-
Gro Patch Magic®, Weedol®, Pathclear®, KB® and Celaflor®.  The lawn care category also includes spreaders and other durables 
under the Scotts® brand name, including Turf Builder® EdgeGuard® spreaders, Snap® spreaders and Handy Green®II handheld 
spreaders.

Gardening and Landscape: The gardening and landscape category is designed to help consumers grow and enjoy 
flower and vegetable gardens and beautify landscaped areas.  In the United States, products within this category include a complete 
line of water soluble plant foods under the Miracle-Gro® brand and sub-brands such as LiquaFeed®, continuous-release plant foods 
under the Osmocote® and Shake ‘N Feed® brand names, potting mixes and garden soils under the Miracle-Gro®, Scotts®, Hyponex®, 
Earthgro® and SuperSoil® brand names, mulch and decorative groundcover products under the Scotts® brand, including the sub-
brands Nature Scapes® and Earthgro®, landscape weed prevention products under the Ortho® brand, plant-related pest and disease 
control products under the Ortho® brand, wild bird food and bird feeder products under the Scotts Songbird Selections®, Morning 
Song® and Country Pride® brand names, organic garden products under the Miracle-Gro Organic Choice®, Scotts® and Whitney 
Farms® brand names, and live goods under the Miracle-Gro® brand and Gro-ables® sub-brand.  Internationally, similar products 
are  marketed  under  the  Miracle-Gro®,  Fertiligène®,  Substral®,  KB®,  Celaflor®, ASEF®,  Scotts®,  Morning  Melodies®,  Scotts 
EcoSense®, Fertiligène Naturen®, Substral Naturen®, KB Naturen®, Carre Vert® and Miracle-Gro Organic Choice® brand names.

Controls: The controls category is designed to help consumers protect their homes from pests and maintain external 
home areas.  In the United States, insect control and rodenticide products are marketed under the Ortho® brand name, including 
Ortho Max®, Home Defense Max® and Bug B Gon Max® sub-brands, selective weed control products are marketed under the 
Ortho® Weed B Gon® sub-brand, while non-selective weed control products are marketed under the Roundup® and Groundclear® 
brand  names.    Internationally,  products  within  this  category  are  marketed  under  the  Nexa  Lotte®,  Fertiligène®,  KB®,  Home 
Defence®, Weedol®, Pathclear® and Roundup® brands.  In addition, in October 2013 through our acquisition of the Tomcat® 
consumer rodent control business from Bell Laboratories, Inc., we began to market rodent control products under the Tomcat® 
brand.

Since 1999, we have served as Monsanto’s exclusive agent for the marketing and distribution of consumer Roundup® products 
in the consumer lawn and garden market within the United States and other specified countries, including Australia, Austria, 
Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.  Under the terms of the Amended and Restated 
Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement (the “Marketing Agreement”) between the Company and Monsanto, we are jointly 
responsible with Monsanto for developing global consumer and trade marketing programs for consumer Roundup®.  We have 
responsibility for manufacturing conversion, distribution and logistics, and selling and marketing support for consumer Roundup®.  
Monsanto continues to own the consumer Roundup® business and provides significant oversight of the brand.  In addition, Monsanto 
continues to own and operate the agricultural Roundup® business.  For additional details regarding the Marketing Agreement, see 
“ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS — If Monsanto were to terminate the Marketing Agreement for consumer Roundup® products, we 
would lose a substantial source of future earnings and overhead expense absorption” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and 
“NOTE 6.  MARKETING AGREEMENT” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on 
Form 10-K.

Scotts LawnService®

The Scotts LawnService® segment provides residential and commercial lawn care, tree and shrub care and limited pest 
control services in the United States through periodic applications of fertilizer and control products.  As of September 30, 2013, 
Scotts LawnService® had 86 Company-operated locations as well as 93 locations operated by independent franchisees.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

On October 14, 2013, we acquired the Tomcat® consumer rodent control business from Bell Laboratories, Inc. located in 
Madison, Wisconsin for $60 million.  In addition, over the past five years we have completed several smaller acquisitions within 
our controls, growing media and Scotts LawnService® businesses.

During the past five years we have completed several divestitures including the wind down of our Smith & Hawken business 
completed in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 and the February 28, 2011 sale of our Global Professional (“Global Pro”) business to 
Israel Chemicals Ltd. (“ICL”) for $270 million.  In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, we completed the wind down of our professional 
seed business.  We have classified our results of operations for all periods presented to reflect these businesses as discontinued 
operations.  See “NOTE 2.  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in 
this Annual Report on Form 10-K for additional information.

3

Principal Markets and Methods of Distribution

We sell our consumer products primarily to home centers, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, large hardware chains, 
independent hardware stores, nurseries, garden centers and food and drug stores through both a direct sales force and our network 
of brokers and distributors.  In addition, during fiscal 2013, we employed approximately 2,200 full-time and seasonal in-store 
associates within the U.S. to help our retail partners merchandise their lawn and garden departments directly to consumers of our 
products.

The majority of shipments to customers are made via common carriers or through distributors in the United States and 
through a network of public warehouses and distributors in Europe.  We primarily utilize third parties to manage the key distribution 
centers for our Global Consumer business in North America, which are strategically placed across the United States and Canada. 
The primary distribution centers for our Global Consumer business internationally are located in the United Kingdom, France, 
Germany, Austria and Australia and are also managed by third-party logistics providers.  Growing media products are generally 
shipped direct-to-store without passing through a distribution center.  Fiscal 2013 marked year five of our multi-year plan to co-
distribute lawn fertilizer and growing media products directly to our retail customers, which to date has helped eliminate the need 
for approximately 25% of our third-party warehouse space.

Raw Materials

We purchase raw materials for our products from various sources.  We are subject to market risk as a result of the fluctuating 
prices of raw materials such as urea and other fertilizer inputs, resins, diesel, gasoline, sphagnum peat, bark, grass seed and wild 
bird food grains.  Our objectives surrounding the procurement of these materials are to ensure continuous supply, to minimize 
costs and to improve predictability.  We seek to achieve these objectives through negotiation of contracts with favorable terms 
directly with vendors.  When appropriate, we commit to purchase a certain percentage of our needs in advance of the season to 
secure pre-determined prices.  We also hedge certain commodities, particularly diesel, gasoline and urea, to improve predictability 
and control costs.  Sufficient raw materials were available during fiscal 2013.

Trademarks, Patents and Licenses

We  consider  our  trademarks,  patents  and  licenses  to  be  key  competitive  advantages.   We  pursue  a  vigorous  trademark 
protection  strategy  consisting  of  registration  and  maintenance  of  key  trademarks  and  proactive  monitoring  and  enforcement 
activities to protect against infringement.  The Scotts®, Miracle-Gro®, Ortho®, Scotts LawnService®, Hyponex® and Earthgro® 
brand names and logos, as well as a number of product trademarks, including Turf Builder®, EZ Seed®, Snap®, Organic Choice®, 
Home Defense Max®, Nature Scapes® and Weed B Gon Max®, are registered in the United States and/or internationally and are 
considered material to our business.

In addition, we actively develop and maintain a vast portfolio of utility and design patents covering subject matter such as 
fertilizer, chemical and growing media compositions and processes; grass seed varieties; and mechanical dispensing devices such 
as applicators, spreaders and sprayers.  Our utility patents provide protection generally extending to 20 years from the date of 
filing, and many of our patents will continue well into the next decade.  We also hold exclusive and non-exclusive patent licenses 
and supply arrangements, permitting the use and sale of additional patented fertilizers, pesticides and mechanical devices.  Although 
our portfolio of patents and patent licenses is important to our success, no single patent or group of related patents is considered 
significant to any of our business segments or the business as a whole.

Seasonality and Backlog

Our business is highly seasonal, with in excess of 75% of our annual net sales occurring in our second and third fiscal quarters 
combined.  Our annual sales are further concentrated in our second and third fiscal quarters by retailers who rely on our ability to 
deliver products closer to when consumers buy our products, thereby reducing retailers’ pre-season inventories.

We anticipate significant orders for the upcoming spring season will start to be received late in the winter and continue 
through the spring season.  Historically, substantially all orders are received and shipped within the same fiscal year with minimal 
carryover of open orders at the end of the fiscal year.

Significant Customers

Approximately 89.7% of our worldwide net sales in fiscal 2013 were made by our Global Consumer segment.  Our three 
largest customers are reported within the Global Consumer segment and are the only customers that individually represent more 
than 10% of reported consolidated net sales.  Approximately 65% of our Global Consumer segment net sales in fiscal 2013 were 
made to Home Depot, Lowe’s and Walmart.  We face strong competition for the business of these significant customers.  The loss 
of any of these customers or a substantial decrease in the volume or profitability of our business with any of these customers could 
have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

4

Competitive Marketplace

The markets in which we sell our products are highly competitive.  In the United States lawn and garden and pest control 
markets, our products compete against private-label as well as branded products.  Primary competitors include Spectrum Brands, 
Bayer AG, Central Garden & Pet Company, Enforcer Products, Inc., Kellogg Garden Products, Old Castle Retail, Inc., Infinity 
Lawn and Garden Inc. and Lebanon Seaboard Corporation.  In addition, we face competition from regional competitors who 
compete primarily on the basis of price for commodity growing media products.

Internationally, we face strong competition in the lawn and garden market, particularly in Europe.  Our competitors in the 

European Union include Bayer AG, Compo GmbH, Westland Horticulture and a variety of local companies.

We have the second largest market share position in the fragmented U.S. lawn care service market.  We compete against 
TruGreen®, a division of ServiceMaster®, which has a substantially larger share of this market than Scotts LawnService®, as well 
as numerous regional and local lawn care service operations and national and regional franchisors.

Research and Development

We continually invest in research and development, both in the laboratory and at the consumer level, to improve our products, 
manufacturing processes, packaging and delivery systems.  Spending on research and development was $46.7 million, $50.8 
million and $50.9 million in fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively, including product registration costs of $12.4 
million, $14.0 million and $14.6 million, respectively.  In addition to the benefits of our own research and development, we actively 
seek ways to leverage the research and development activities of our suppliers and other business partners.

Regulatory Considerations

Local, state, federal and foreign laws and regulations affect the manufacture, sale and application of our products in several 
ways.  For example, in the United States, products containing pesticides must comply with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and 
Rodenticide  Act  of  1947,  as  amended  (“FIFRA”),  and  be  registered  with  the  U.S. Environmental  Protection  Agency  (the 
“U.S. EPA”) and similar state agencies before they can be sold or distributed.  Fertilizer and growing media products are subject 
to state and foreign labeling regulations.  Our manufacturing operations are subject to waste, water and air quality permitting and 
other regulatory requirements of federal, state and foreign agencies.  Our wild bird food business is subject to regulation by the 
U.S. Food and Drug Administration and various state regulations.  Our grass seed products are regulated by the Federal Seed Act 
and various state regulations.  Most states require our Scotts LawnService® business locations and/or technicians to comply with 
strict licensing requirements prior to applying many of our products.  The failure to comply with any of these laws or regulations 
could have an adverse effect on our business.

In  addition,  the  use  of  certain  pesticide  and  fertilizer  products  is  regulated  by  various  local,  state,  federal  and  foreign 
environmental and public health agencies.  These regulations may include requirements that only certified or professional users 
apply the product or that certain products be used only on certain types of locations (such as “not for use on sod farms or golf 
courses”), may require users to post notices on properties to which products have been or will be applied, may require notification 
to individuals in the vicinity that products will be applied in the future or may ban the use of certain ingredients.

State, federal and foreign authorities generally require growing media facilities to obtain permits (sometimes on an annual 
basis) in order to harvest peat and to discharge storm water run-off or water pumped from peat deposits.  The permits typically 
specify the condition in which the property must be left after the peat is fully harvested, with the residual use typically being 
natural wetland habitats combined with open water areas.  We are generally required by these permits to limit our harvesting and 
to restore the property consistent with the intended residual use.  In some locations, these facilities have been required to create 
water retention ponds to control the sediment content of discharged water.

For more information regarding how compliance with federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations may affect us, 
see “ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS — Compliance with environmental and other public health regulations or changes in such 
regulations or regulatory enforcement priorities could increase our costs of doing business or limit our ability to market all of our 
products” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Regulatory Matters

We are subject to various environmental proceedings, the majority of which are for site remediation.  At September 30, 
2013, $4.0 million was accrued for such environmental matters.  During fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, we expensed 
$0.4 million, $0.8 million and $2.4 million, respectively, for such environmental matters.  We had no material capital expenditures 
during the last three fiscal years related to environmental or regulatory matters.

5

Employees

As of September 30, 2013, we employed approximately 6,200 employees.  During peak sales and production periods, we 

employ approximately 8,400 employees, including seasonal and temporary labor.

Financial Information About Geographic Areas

For  certain  information  concerning  our  international  revenues  and  long-lived  assets,  see  “NOTE 21.    SEGMENT 

INFORMATION” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

General Information

We maintain a website at http://investor.scotts.com (this uniform resource locator, or URL, is an inactive textual reference 
only and is not intended to incorporate our website into this Annual Report on Form 10-K).  We file reports with the Securities 
and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and make available, free of charge, on or through our website, our annual reports on 
Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished 
pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as well as our proxy and information 
statements, as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC.

ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This Annual Report on Form 10-K, including the exhibits hereto and the information incorporated by reference herein, as 
well as our 2013 Annual Report to Shareholders (our “2013 Annual Report”), contains “forward-looking statements” within the 
meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as 
amended, which are subject to risks and uncertainties.  Other than statements of historical fact, information regarding activities, 
events and developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future, including, but not limited to, information 
relating to our future growth and profitability targets and strategies designed to increase total shareholder value, are forward-
looking statements based on management’s estimates, assumptions and projections.  Forward-looking statements also include, but 
are  not  limited  to,  statements  regarding  our  future  economic  and  financial  condition  and  results  of  operations,  the  plans  and 
objectives of management and our assumptions regarding our performance and such plans and objectives, as well as the amount 
and timing of repurchases of Scotts Miracle-Gro common shares.  Forward-looking statements generally can be identified through 
the use of words such as “guidance,” “outlook,” “projected,” “believe,” “target,” “predict,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “strategy,” 
“may,” “goal,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “foresee,” “likely,” “will,” “should” and other similar words and variations.

Forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and our 2013 Annual Report are predictions 
only and actual results could differ materially from management’s expectations due to a variety of factors, including those described 
below.  All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons working on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety 
by such risk factors.

The forward-looking statements that we make in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and our 2013 Annual Report are based 
on  management’s  current  views  and  assumptions  regarding  future  events  and  speak  only  as  of  their  dates.   We  disclaim  any 
obligation  to  update  developments  of  these  risk  factors  or  to  announce  publicly  any  revisions  to  any  of  the  forward-looking 
statements that we make, or to make corrections to reflect future events or developments, except as required by the federal securities 
laws.

Compliance  with  environmental  and  other  public  health  regulations  or  changes  in  such  regulations  or  regulatory 

enforcement priorities could increase our costs of doing business or limit our ability to market all of our products.

Local, state, federal and foreign laws and regulations relating to environmental matters affect us in several ways.  In the 
United States, all products containing pesticides must comply with FIFRA and be registered with the U.S. EPA and similar state 
agencies before they can be sold or distributed.  The inability to obtain or maintain such compliance, or the cancellation of any 
such registration, could have an adverse effect on our business, the severity of which would depend on the products involved, 
whether another product could be substituted and whether our competitors were similarly affected.  We attempt to anticipate 
regulatory developments and maintain registrations of, and access to, substitute active ingredients, but there can be no assurance 
that we will be able to avoid or reduce these risks.  In the European Union (the “EU”), the European Parliament has adopted 
various forms of regulation which may substantially restrict or eliminate our ability to market and sell certain of our consumer 
pesticide products in their current form in the EU.  In addition, in Canada, regulations have been adopted by several provinces 
that substantially restrict our ability to market and sell certain of our consumer pesticide products.

6

Under the Food Quality Protection Act, enacted by the U.S. Congress in 1996, food-use pesticides are evaluated to determine 
whether there is reasonable certainty that no harm will result from the cumulative effects of pesticide exposures.  Under this Act, 
the U.S. EPA is evaluating the cumulative and aggregate risks from dietary and non-dietary exposures to pesticides.  The pesticides 
in our products, certain of which may be used on crops processed into various food products, are typically manufactured by 
independent third parties and continue to be evaluated by the U.S. EPA as part of this exposure risk assessment.  The U.S. EPA or 
the third-party registrant may decide that a pesticide we use in our products will be limited or made unavailable to us.  We cannot 
predict the outcome or the severity of the effect of continuing evaluations.

In  addition,  the  use  of  certain  pesticide  and  fertilizer  products  is  regulated  by  various  local,  state,  federal  and  foreign 
environmental and public health agencies.  These regulations may include requirements that only certified or professional users 
apply the product or that certain products be used only on certain types of locations, may require users to post notices on properties 
to which products have been or will be applied, may require notification to individuals in the vicinity that products will be applied 
in the future or may ban the use of certain ingredients.  Most states require our Scotts LawnService® business locations and/or 
technicians to comply with strict licensing requirements prior to applying many of our products.  Even if we are able to comply 
with  all  such  regulations  and  obtain  all  necessary  registrations  and  licenses,  we  cannot  provide  assurance  that  our  products, 
particularly  pesticide  products,  will  not  cause  injury  to  the  environment  or  to  people  under  all  circumstances.   The  costs  of 
compliance, remediation or products liability have adversely affected operating results in the past and could materially adversely 
affect future quarterly or annual operating results.

The harvesting of peat for our growing media business has come under increasing regulatory and environmental scrutiny. 
In the United States, state regulations frequently require us to limit our harvesting and to restore the property to an agreed-upon 
condition.  In some locations, we have been required to create water retention ponds to control the sediment content of discharged 
water.  In the United Kingdom, our peat extraction efforts are also the subject of regulation.

In addition to the regulations already described, local, state, federal and foreign agencies regulate the disposal, transport, 
handling and storage of waste, remediation of contaminated sites, air and water discharges from our facilities, and workplace 
health and safety.

Under certain environmental laws, we may be liable for the costs of investigation regarding and remediation of the presence 
of certain regulated materials, as well as related costs of investigation and remediation of damage to natural resources, at various 
properties, including our current and former properties as well as offsite waste handling or disposal sites that we have used. 
Liability may be imposed upon us without regard to whether we knew of or caused the presence of such materials and, under 
certain circumstances, on a joint and several basis.  There can be no assurances that the presence of such regulated materials at 
any such locations, or locations that we may acquire in the future, will not result in liability to us under such laws or expose us to 
third-party actions such as tort suits based on alleged conduct or environmental conditions.

The adequacy of our current non-FIFRA compliance-related environmental reserves and future provisions depends upon 
our operating in substantial compliance with applicable environmental and public health laws and regulations, as well as the 
assumptions that we have both identified all of the significant sites that must be remediated and that there are no significant 
conditions of potential contamination that are unknown to us.  A significant change in the facts and circumstances surrounding 
these assumptions or in current enforcement policies or requirements, or a finding that we are not in substantial compliance with 
applicable environmental and public health laws and regulations, could have a material adverse effect on future environmental 
capital expenditures and other environmental expenses, as well as our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Damage to our reputation could have an adverse effect on our business.

Maintaining our strong reputation with both consumers and our retail customers is a key component in our success.  Product 
recalls, our inability to ship, sell or transport affected products and governmental investigations may harm our reputation and 
acceptance  of  our  products  by  our  retail  customers  and  consumers,  which  may  materially  and  adversely  affect  our  business 
operations, decrease sales and increase costs.

In addition, perceptions that the products we produce and market are not safe could adversely affect us and contribute to the 
risk we will be subjected to legal action.  We manufacture and market a variety of products, such as fertilizers, certain growing 
media, herbicides and pesticides.  On occasion, allegations are made that some of our products have failed to perform up to 
expectations or have caused damage or injury to individuals or property.  Based on reports of contamination at a third-party 
supplier’s vermiculite mine, the public may perceive that some of our products manufactured in the past using vermiculite are or 
may be contaminated.  Public perception that our products are not safe, whether justified or not, could impair our reputation, 
involve us in litigation, damage our brand names and have a material adverse effect on our business.

7

Our marketing activities may not be successful.

We invest substantial resources in advertising, consumer promotions and other marketing activities in order to maintain, 
extend and expand our brand image.  There can be no assurances that our marketing strategies will be effective or that the amount 
we invest in advertising activities will result in a corresponding increase in sales of our products.  If our marketing initiatives are 
not successful, we will have incurred significant expenses without the benefit of higher revenues.

Disruptions in availability or increases in the prices of raw materials or fuel costs could adversely affect our results of 

operations.

We source many of our commodities and other raw materials on a global basis.  The general availability and price of those 
raw materials can be affected by numerous forces beyond our control, including political instability, trade restrictions and other 
government regulations, duties and tariffs, price controls, changes in currency exchange rates and weather.

A significant disruption in the availability of any of our key raw materials could negatively impact our business.  In addition, 
increases in the prices of key commodities and other raw materials could adversely affect our ability to manage our cost structure. 
Market  conditions  may  limit  our  ability  to  raise  selling  prices  to  offset  increases  in  our  raw  material  costs.    Our  proprietary 
technologies can limit our ability to locate or utilize alternative inputs for certain products.  For certain inputs, new sources of 
supply may have to be qualified under regulatory standards, which can require additional investment and delay bringing a product 
to market.

We utilize hedge agreements periodically to fix the prices of a portion of our urea and fuel needs.  The hedge agreements 
are designed to mitigate the earnings and cash flow fluctuations associated with the costs of urea and fuel.  In periods of declining 
urea and fuel prices, utilizing hedge agreements may effectively increase our expenditures for these raw materials.

Our hedging arrangements expose us to certain counterparty risks.

In addition to commodity hedge agreements, we utilize interest rate swap agreements as a means to hedge our variable 
interest rate exposure on debt instruments as well as foreign currency forward contracts to manage the exchange rate risk associated 
with certain intercompany loans with foreign subsidiaries.  Utilizing these hedge agreements exposes us to certain counterparty 
risks.  The failure of one or more of these counterparties to fulfill their obligations under the hedge agreements, whether as a result 
of weakening financial stability or otherwise, could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Economic conditions could adversely affect our business.

Uncertain  global  economic  conditions  could  adversely  affect  our  business.    Negative  global  economic  trends,  such  as 
decreased consumer and business spending, high unemployment levels, reduced rates of home ownership and housing starts, high 
foreclosure rates and declining consumer and business confidence, pose challenges to our business and could result in declining 
revenues, profitability and cash flow.  Although we continue to devote significant resources to support our brands, unfavorable 
economic conditions may negatively affect consumer demand for our products.  Consumers may reduce discretionary spending 
during periods of economic uncertainty, which could reduce sales volumes of our products or result in a shift in our product mix 
from higher margin to lower margin products.

The highly competitive nature of our markets could adversely affect our ability to maintain or grow revenues.

Each of our operating segments participates in markets that are highly competitive.  Our products compete against national 
and regional products and private label products produced by various suppliers.  Many of our competitors sell their products at 
prices lower than ours.  Our most price sensitive customers may trade down to lower priced products during challenging economic 
times or if current economic conditions worsen.  We compete primarily on the basis of product innovation, product quality, product 
performance,  value,  brand  strength,  supply  chain  competency,  field  sales  support,  in-store  sales  support,  the  strength  of  our 
relationships with major retailers and advertising.  Some of our competitors have significant financial resources.  The strong 
competition that we face in all of our markets may prevent us from achieving our revenue goals, which may have a material adverse 
effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.  Our inability to continue to develop and grow brands with 
leading market positions, maintain our relationships with key retailers and deliver products on a reliable basis at competitive prices 
could have a material adverse effect on us.

8

We  may  not  successfully  develop  new  products  or  improve  existing  products  or  maintain  our  effectiveness  in  reaching 

consumers through rapidly evolving communication vehicles.

Our future success depends, in part, upon our ability to improve our existing products and to develop, manufacture and 
market new, innovative products to meet evolving consumer needs, as well as our ability to leverage new mediums such as digital 
media and social networks to reach existing and potential consumers.  We cannot be certain that we will be successful in the 
development, manufacturing and marketing of new products or product innovations which satisfy consumer needs or achieve 
market acceptance, or that we will develop and market new products or product innovations in a timely manner.  If we fail to 
successfully develop, manufacture and market new or enhanced products or develop product innovations, or if we fail to reach 
existing and potential consumers, our ability to maintain or grow our market share may be adversely affected, which in turn could 
materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.  In addition, the development and introduction 
of new products and product innovations require substantial research, development and marketing expenditures, which we may 
be unable to recoup if such new products or innovations do not achieve market acceptance.

Many of the products we manufacture and market contain active ingredients that are subject to regulatory approval.  The 
need to obtain such approval could delay the launch of new products or product innovations that contain active ingredients or 
otherwise prevent us from developing and manufacturing certain products and innovations, further exacerbating the risks to our 
business.

Because of the concentration of our sales to a small number of retail customers, the loss of one or more of, or significant 

reduction in orders from, our top customers could adversely affect our financial results.

Global Consumer net sales represented approximately 89.7% of our worldwide net sales in fiscal 2013.  Our top three retail 
customers together accounted for 65% of our Global Consumer segment fiscal 2013 net sales and 56% of our outstanding accounts 
receivable as of September 30, 2013.  The loss of, or reduction in orders from our top three retail customers, Home Depot, Lowe’s, 
Walmart, or any other significant customer could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of 
operations or cash flows, as could customer disputes regarding shipments, fees, merchandise condition or related matters.  Our 
inability to collect accounts receivable from one of our major customers, or a significant deterioration in the financial condition 
of one of these customers, including a bankruptcy filing or a liquidation, could also have a material adverse effect on our financial 
condition, results of operations or cash flows.

We do not have long-term sales agreements with, or other contractual assurances as to future sales to, any of our major retail 
customers.  In addition, continued consolidation in the retail industry has resulted in an increasingly concentrated retail base, and 
as a result, we are significantly dependent upon key retailers whose bargaining strength is strong.  To the extent such concentration 
continues to occur, our net sales and income from operations may be increasingly sensitive to deterioration in the financial condition 
of, or other adverse developments involving our relationship with, one or more of our customers.  In addition, our business may 
be negatively affected by changes in the policies of our retailers, such as inventory destocking, limitations on access to shelf space, 
price demands and other conditions.

Our reliance on third-party manufacturers could harm our business.

We rely on third-party service providers to manufacture certain of our products.  This reliance generates a number of risks, 
including decreased control over the production process, which could lead to production delays or interruptions, and inferior 
product quality control.  In addition, performance problems at these third-party providers could lead to cost overruns, shortages 
or other problems, which could increase our costs of production or result in service delays to our customers.

If one or more of our third-party manufacturers becomes insolvent or unwilling to continue to manufacture products of 
acceptable quality, at acceptable costs, in a timely manner, our ability to deliver products to our customers could be significantly 
impaired.  Substitute manufacturers might not be available or, if available, might be unwilling or unable to manufacture the products 
we need on acceptable terms.  Moreover, if customer demand for our products increases, we may be unable to secure sufficient 
additional capacity from our current third-party manufacturers, or others, on commercially reasonable terms, or at all.

Our reliance on a limited base of suppliers may result in disruptions to our business and adversely affect our financial 

results.

We rely on a limited number of suppliers for certain of our raw materials, product components and other necessary supplies, 
including certain active ingredients used in our products.  If we are unable to maintain supplier arrangements and relationships, 
if we are unable to contract with suppliers at the quantity and quality levels needed for our business, or if any of our key suppliers 
becomes insolvent or experiences other financial distress, we could experience disruptions in production, which could have a 
material adverse effect on our financial results.

9

A significant interruption in the operation of our or our suppliers’ facilities could impact our capacity to produce products 

and service our customers, which could adversely affect revenues and earnings.

Operations at our and our suppliers’ facilities are subject to disruption for a variety of reasons, including fire, flooding or 
other natural disasters, disease outbreaks or pandemics, acts of war, terrorism, government shut-downs and work stoppages.  A 
significant interruption in the operation of our or our suppliers’ facilities could significantly impact our capacity to produce products 
and service our retail customers in a timely manner, which could have a material adverse effect on our revenues, earnings and 
financial position.  This is especially true for those products that we manufacture at a limited number of facilities, such as our 
fertilizer and liquid products in both the United States and Europe.

Adverse weather conditions could adversely impact financial results.

Weather conditions in North America and Europe can have a significant impact on the timing of sales in the spring selling 
season and overall annual sales.  An abnormally wet and/or cold spring throughout North America or Europe, abnormally dry 
periods or droughts, and other severe weather conditions or events could adversely affect fertilizer, pesticide and insecticide sales 
and, therefore, our financial results.

Our indebtedness could limit our flexibility and adversely affect our financial condition.

As of September 30, 2013, we had $570.5 million of debt.  Our inability to meet restrictive financial and non-financial 

covenants associated with that debt could adversely affect our financial condition.

Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness, fund planned capital expenditures and acquisitions, pay dividends and 
make share repurchases depends on our ability to generate cash in the future.  This, to some extent, is subject to general economic, 
financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control.  We cannot ensure that our business 
will generate sufficient cash flow from operating activities or that future borrowings will be available to us under our credit facility 
in amounts sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs.

Our credit facility, the indenture governing our 7.25% Senior Notes due 2018 (the “7.25% Senior Notes”) and the indenture 
governing our 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 (the “6.625% Senior Notes” and, collectively with the 7.25% Senior Notes, the 
“Senior Notes”) contain restrictive covenants and cross-default provisions.  In addition, our credit facility requires us to maintain 
specified financial ratios.  Our ability to comply with those covenants and satisfy those financial ratios can be affected by events 
beyond our control.  A breach of any of those financial ratio covenants or other covenants could result in a default.  Upon the 
occurrence of such an event of default, the lenders could elect to declare all of the outstanding indebtedness immediately due and 
payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit.  We cannot ensure that our lenders would waive a default or that 
we could pay the indebtedness in full if it were accelerated.

Subject to compliance with certain covenants under our credit facility and the indentures governing our Senior Notes, we 

may incur additional debt in the future.  If we incur additional debt, the risks described above could intensify.

Our postretirement-related costs and funding requirements could increase as a result of volatility in the financial markets, 

changes in interest rates and actuarial assumptions.

We sponsor a number of defined benefit pension plans associated with our U.S. and international businesses, as well as a 
postretirement medical plan in the U.S. for certain retired associates and their dependents.  The performance of the financial 
markets and changes in interest rates impact the funded status of these plans and cause volatility in our postretirement-related 
costs and future funding requirements.  If the financial markets do not provide the expected long-term returns on invested assets, 
we could be required to make significant pension contributions.  Additionally, changes in interest rates and legislation enacted by 
governmental authorities can impact the timing and amounts of contribution requirements.

We utilize third-party actuaries to evaluate assumptions used in determining projected benefit obligations and the fair value 
of plan assets for our pension and other postretirement benefit plans.  In the event we determine that our assumptions should be 
revised, such as the discount rate, the expected long-term rate or expected return on assets, our future pension and postretirement 
benefit expenses could increase or decrease.  The assumptions we use may differ from actual results, which could have a significant 
impact on our pension and postretirement liabilities and related costs and funding requirements.

10

Our international operations make us susceptible to the costs and risks associated with operating internationally.

We currently operate manufacturing, sales and service facilities outside of the United States, particularly in Canada, France, 
the United Kingdom and Germany.  In fiscal 2013, sales outside of the United States accounted for 17.2% of our total net sales. 
Accordingly, we are subject to risks associated with operating in foreign countries, including:

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

fluctuations in currency exchange rates;

limitations on the remittance of dividends and other payments by foreign subsidiaries;

additional costs of compliance with local regulations;

historically, in certain countries, higher rates of inflation than in the United States;

changes in the economic conditions or consumer preferences or demand for our products in these markets;

restrictive actions by multi-national governing bodies, foreign governments or subdivisions thereof;

changes in foreign labor laws and regulations affecting our ability to hire and retain employees;

changes in U.S. and foreign laws regarding trade and investment;

less robust protection of our intellectual property under foreign laws; and

difficulty in obtaining distribution and support for our products.

In  addition,  our  operations  outside  the  United  States  are  subject  to  the  risk  of  new  and  different  legal  and  regulatory 
requirements in local jurisdictions, potential difficulties in staffing and managing local operations and potentially adverse tax 
consequences.  The costs associated with operating our international business could adversely affect our results of operations, 
financial condition or cash flows in the future.

Failure of our key information technology systems could adversely impact our ability to conduct business.

We rely on information technology systems in order to conduct business, including communicating with employees and our 
key retail customers, ordering and managing materials from suppliers, shipping products to customers and analyzing and reporting 
results of operations.  While we have taken steps to ensure the security of our information technology systems, our systems may 
nevertheless be vulnerable to computer viruses, security breaches and other disruptions from unauthorized users.  If our information 
technology systems are damaged or cease to function properly for an extended period of time, whether as a result of a significant 
cyber incident or otherwise, our ability to communicate internally as well as with our retail customers could be significantly 
impaired, which may adversely impact our business.

We may not be able to adequately protect our intellectual property and other proprietary rights that are material to our 

business.

Our ability to compete effectively depends in part on our rights to service marks, trademarks, tradenames and other intellectual 
property rights we own or license, particularly our registered brand names and issued patents.  We have not sought to register 
every one of our marks either in the United States or in every country in which they are used.  Furthermore, because of the 
differences in foreign trademark, patent and other intellectual property or proprietary rights laws, we may not receive the same 
protection in other countries as we would in the United States with respect to the registered brand names and issued patents we 
hold.  If we are unable to protect our intellectual property, proprietary information and/or brand names, we could suffer a material 
adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Litigation may be necessary to enforce our intellectual property rights and protect our proprietary information, or to defend 
against claims by third parties that our products or services infringe their intellectual property rights.  Any litigation or claims 
brought by or against us could result in substantial costs and diversion of our resources.  A successful claim of trademark, patent 
or other intellectual property infringement against us, or any other successful challenge to the use of our intellectual property, 
could subject us to damages or prevent us from providing certain products or services under our recognized brand names, which 
could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

11

If Monsanto were to terminate the Marketing Agreement for consumer Roundup® products, we would lose a substantial 

source of future earnings and overhead expense absorption.

If we were to commit a serious default under the Marketing Agreement with Monsanto for consumer Roundup® products, 
Monsanto may have the right to terminate the Marketing Agreement.  If Monsanto were to terminate the Marketing Agreement 
for cause, we would not be entitled to any termination fee.  Monsanto may also be able to terminate the Marketing Agreement 
within a given region, including North America, without paying us a termination fee if unit volume sales to consumers in that 
region decline: (i) over a cumulative three-fiscal-year period; or (ii) by more than 5% for each of two consecutive years.  If the 
Marketing Agreement was terminated for any reason, we would also lose all, or a substantial portion, of the significant source of 
earnings and overhead expense absorption the Marketing Agreement provides.  For additional information regarding the Marketing 
Agreement, see “NOTE 6.  MARKETING AGREEMENT” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this 
Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. beneficially owns approximately 27% of our common shares and can significantly influence 

decisions that require the approval of shareholders.

Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. beneficially owned approximately 27% of our outstanding common shares on a fully diluted 
basis as of November 13, 2013.  As a result, it has sufficient voting power to significantly influence the election of directors and 
the approval of other actions requiring the approval of our shareholders, including the entering into of certain business combination 
transactions.  In addition, because of the percentage of ownership and voting concentration in Hagedorn Partnership, L.P., elections 
of our board of directors will generally be within the control of Hagedorn Partnership, L.P.  While all of our shareholders are 
entitled to vote on matters submitted to our shareholders for approval, the concentration of shares and voting control presently 
lies with Hagedorn Partnership, L.P.  As such, it would be difficult for shareholders to propose and have approved proposals not 
supported by Hagedorn Partnership, L.P.  Hagedorn Partnership, L.P. may have an interest in our pursuing transactions that it 
believes may enhance the value of its equity investment in us, even though such transactions may involve certain risks.

We may pursue acquisitions, dispositions, investments, dividends, share repurchases and/or other corporate transactions 

that we believe will maximize equity returns of our shareholders but may involve risks.

From time to time, we consider opportunities for acquisitions of businesses, product lines or other assets, potential dispositions 
and other strategic transactions.  These types of transactions may involve risks, such as risks of integration of acquired businesses 
and  loss  of  cash  flows  and  market  positions  of  disposed  businesses,  the  possibility  that  anticipated  synergies  from  strategic 
acquisitions may not materialize, and the risk that sales of acquired products may not meet expectations.

In addition, if our business performs according to our financial plan, subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors and 
to market and other conditions we may, over time, significantly increase the rate of dividends on, and the amount of repurchases 
of, our common shares.  For example, in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010 we doubled the amount of our quarterly cash dividend, 
and our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Scotts Miracle-Gro common shares.  In fiscal 2011 
we increased the amount of our dividend by an additional 20% and our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an 
additional $200 million of our common shares.  We increased the amount of our dividend again in fiscal 2012.  In the fourth quarter 
of fiscal 2013 we increased the amount of our dividend by an additional 35%.  We may further increase the rate of dividends on, 
and the amount of repurchases of, our common shares in the future.

There can be no assurance that we will effect any of these transactions or activities, but, if we do, certain risks may be 

increased, possibly materially.

ITEM 1B.  UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

ITEM 2. 

PROPERTIES

Our corporate headquarters are located in Marysville, Ohio, where we own or lease approximately 730 acres.  We also lease 
office space for sales, marketing and general operating activities as well as warehouse, distribution, and research and development 
throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia.  We believe that our facilities are adequate to serve their intended purposes 
and that our property leasing arrangements are satisfactory.

We own or lease numerous facilities throughout the world to support our business operations.

•

Global Consumer — We own or lease eight properties to support manufacturing, distribution, and research and
development in North America.  In addition, we operate 31 stand-alone growing media facilities in North America,

12

25 of which are owned by the Company and six of which are leased.  Most of these facilities include production 
lines, warehouses, offices and field processing areas.  We own three production facilities for our wild bird food 
operations in Indiana, South Dakota, and Texas. 

We  lease  facilities  for  the  headquarters  of  our  international  business  in  Ecully  (Lyon),  France.   We  own  two 
manufacturing facilities in France and four manufacturing facilities in the United Kingdom.  We own or lease four 
peat extraction facilities in Scotland and the United Kingdom.

•

Scotts LawnService® — We lease facilities for each of our 86 Company-operated Scotts LawnService® locations.

ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

As noted in the discussion in “ITEM 1.  BUSINESS — Regulatory Considerations” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, 
we are involved in several pending environmental and regulatory matters.  We believe that our assessment of contingencies is 
reasonable and that related reserves, in the aggregate, are adequate; however, there can be no assurance that the final resolution 
of these matters will not have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

We have been named as a defendant in a number of cases alleging injuries that the lawsuits claim resulted from exposure 
to asbestos-containing products, apparently based on our historic use of vermiculite in certain of our products.  In many of these 
cases, the complaints are not specific about the plaintiffs’ contacts with us or our products.  We believe that the claims against us 
are without merit and are vigorously defending against them.  It is not currently possible to reasonably estimate a probable loss, 
if any, associated with the cases and, accordingly, no reserves have been recorded in our consolidated financial statements.  We 
are reviewing agreements and policies that may provide insurance coverage or indemnity as to these claims and are pursuing 
coverage under some of these agreements and policies, although there can be no assurance of the results of these efforts.  There 
can be no assurance that these cases, whether as a result of adverse outcomes or as a result of significant defense costs, will not 
have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In connection with the sale of wild bird food products that were the subject of a voluntary recall in 2008, we have been 
named as a defendant in four putative class actions filed on and after June 27, 2012, which have now been consolidated in the 
United States District Court for the Southern District of California as In re Morning Song Bird Food Litigation, Lead Case No. 
3:12-cv-01592-JAH-RBB.  The plaintiffs allege various statutory and common law claims associated with the Company's sale of 
wild bird food products and a plea agreement entered into in previously pending government proceedings associated with such 
sales.  The plaintiffs allege, among other things, a purported class action on behalf of all persons and entities in the United States 
who purchased certain bird food products.  The plaintiffs seek monetary damages (actual, compensatory, consequential, punitive, 
and treble); reimbursement, restitution, and disgorgement for benefits unjustly conferred; injunctive and declaratory relief; pre-
judgment and post-judgment interest; and costs and attorneys' fees.  The Company intends to vigorously defend the consolidated 
action.  Given the early stages of the action, we cannot make a determination as to whether it could have a material effect on the 
Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows and have not recorded any accruals with respect thereto.

We are involved in other lawsuits and claims which arise in the normal course of our business.  In our opinion, these claims 
individually and in the aggregate are not expected to result in a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or 
cash flows.

ITEM 4.    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

Not Applicable.

13

SUPPLEMENTAL ITEM.    EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

The executive officers of Scotts Miracle-Gro, their positions and, as of November 13, 2013, their ages and years with Scotts 

Miracle-Gro (and its predecessors) are set forth below. 

Name
James Hagedorn

Barry W. Sanders

Lawrence A. Hilsheimer

Denise S. Stump

Age

Position(s) Held

58 Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
49 President and Chief Operating Officer
56 Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
59 Executive  Vice  President,  Global  Human  Resources  and  Chief  Ethics 

Officer

Ivan C. Smith

44 Executive Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Chief 

Compliance Officer

James R. Lyski

Michael C. Lukemire

50 Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer
55 Executive Vice President, Business Execution

Years with
Company
26

12

1

13

10

3

17

Executive officers serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro and pursuant to employment 

agreements or other arrangements.

The business experience of each of the individuals listed above during at least the past five years is as follows:

Mr. Hagedorn was named Chairman of the Board of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s predecessor in January 2003 and named 
Chief Executive Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s predecessor in May 2001.  He also served as President of Scotts Miracle-Gro (or 
its predecessor) from November 2006 until October 2008 and from April 2000 until December 2005.  Mr. Hagedorn serves on 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro’s  Board  of  Directors,  a  position  he  has  held  with  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  (or  its  predecessor)  since  1995. 
Mr. Hagedorn is the brother of Katherine Hagedorn Littlefield, a director of Scotts Miracle-Gro.

Mr. Sanders was named President of Scotts Miracle-Gro in October 2010 and named Chief Operating Officer of Scotts 
Miracle-Gro in January 2012.  In this position, Mr. Sanders oversees all business unit and operating functions at the Company. 
Prior to his appointment as President and Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Sanders had served as the Company’s Executive Vice 
President, Global Consumer since June 2010.  Previously, he served as Executive Vice President, North America of Scotts Miracle-
Gro from October 2007 until June 2010.  He served as Executive Vice President of Global Technology and Operations of Scotts 
Miracle-Gro from January to October 2007, where he was responsible for the Company’s supply chain and information systems, 
as well as research and development efforts.  Before January 2007, he led the North American and global supply chain organizations 
as well as the North American sales force.

Mr. Hilsheimer was named Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro in April  2013. 
Prior to joining Scotts Miracle-Gro, Mr. Hilsheimer served as the President and Chief Operating Officer of Nationwide Retirement 
Plans for Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company from August 2012 to March 2013.  Prior to that, Mr. Hilsheimer served as the 
President and Chief Operating Officer of Nationwide Direct and Customer Solutions, a post he had held since November 2009. 
Before November 2009, he served as the Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of Nationwide Mutual Insurance 
Company.

Ms. Stump has served as Executive Vice President, Global Human Resources of Scotts Miracle-Gro (or its predecessor) 

since February 2003.  Effective October 31, 2013, Ms. Stump also was named Chief Ethics Officer.

Mr. Smith was named Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Scotts Miracle-Gro in 
July 2013.  Effective October 31, 2013, Mr. Smith also was named Chief Compliance Officer.  Prior to becoming Executive Vice 
President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Mr. Smith served as Vice President, Global Consumer Legal and Assistant 
General Counsel since October 2011.  From April 2009 to September 2011, he served as Vice President, North America Legal and 
Assistant General Counsel.  From October 2007 to March 2009, he served as Vice President, Litigation.  

Mr. Lyski was named Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer of Scotts Miracle-Gro in April 2011.  He had 
previously served as interim Chief Marketing Officer since February 2011.  Prior to joining Scotts Miracle-Gro, Mr. Lyski served 
as Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer for Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company from October 2006 until January 
2011, where he was responsible for corporate strategy, corporate marketing, brand management, advertising and communications. 
Mr. Lyski serves as President of the Board of Trustees for the Wexner Center Foundation.

14

Mr. Lukemire was named Executive Vice President, Business Execution of Scotts Miracle-Gro in July 2013.  In that 
position,  Mr.  Lukemire  is  responsible  for  leading  the  Company’s  global  supply  chain,  research  and  development,  business 
transformation, operational strategy and environmental health and safety efforts.  Prior to this appointment, Mr. Lukemire served 
as President, U.S. Consumer Regions since October 2011.  Previously, he served as Regional President from May 2009 to September 
2011, where he was responsible for leading the Company's business development, marketing and sales efforts in the Southeastern 
United  States.    Before  May  2009,  Mr.  Lukemire  served  as  Executive  Vice  President,  Global  Technologies  and  Operations, 
responsible for global supply chain, global research and development and global business information services.   

15

PART II
ITEM 5.  MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER 

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

The common shares of Scotts Miracle-Gro (the “Common Shares”) trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol 
“SMG.”  The quarterly high and low sale prices for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 were as 
follows:

FISCAL 2013
First quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Second quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Third quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Fourth quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
FISCAL 2012
First quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Second quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Third quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Fourth quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Sale Prices

High

Low

44.60
47.60
50.46
55.99

50.85
55.58
55.95
45.00

$
$
$
$

$
$
$
$

39.64
42.64
42.01
47.87

40.57
46.17
35.49
37.97

A quarterly dividend of $0.25 per Common Share was paid in December, March and June of fiscal 2011.  On August 8, 
2011, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.30 per Common 
Share, which was paid in September of fiscal 2011 and December, March and June of fiscal 2012.  On August 9, 2012, Scotts 
Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had further increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.325 per Common Share, 
which was paid in September of fiscal 2012 and December, March and June of fiscal 2013.  On August 6, 2013, Scotts Miracle-
Gro announced that its Board of Directors had further increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.4375 per Common Share, which 
was paid in September of fiscal 2013.  The payment of future dividends, if any, on the Common Shares will be determined by the 
Board  of  Directors  in  light  of  conditions  then  existing,  including  the  Company’s  earnings,  financial  condition  and  capital 
requirements, restrictions in financing agreements, business conditions and other factors.  The Company’s credit facility restricts 
future dividend payments to an aggregate of $125 million annually through fiscal 2013 and $150 million annually beginning in 
fiscal 2014 if our leverage ratio, after giving effect to any such annual dividend payment, exceeds 2.50.  Our leverage ratio was 
2.05 at September 30, 2013.  See “NOTE 10.  DEBT” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual 
Report on Form 10-K for further discussion regarding the restrictions on dividend payments.

As of November 7, 2013, there were approximately 23,700 shareholders, including holders of record and our estimate of 

beneficial holders.

The following table shows the purchases of Common Shares made by or on behalf of Scotts Miracle-Gro or any “affiliated 
purchaser” (as defined in Rule 10b-18(a)(3) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) of Scotts Miracle-Gro for 
each of the three fiscal months in the quarter ended September 30, 2013:

Period
June 30 through July 27, 2013. . . . . . . . . . .

July 28 through August 24, 2013. . . . . . . . .

August 25 through September 30, 2013 . . .

Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

_____________

Approximate
Dollar Value of
Common Shares
That May Yet
be Purchased
Under the Plans
(3)
or Programs

298,816,796

298,816,796

298,816,796

Total Number
of  Common
Shares
Purchased

(1)

Average Price
Paid  per
Common
(2)
Share

Total Number
of Common
Shares Purchased
as Part of  Publicly
Announced Plans  
or
Programs

(3)

49.34

—

54.95

54.32

— $

— $

— $

—

184

$

— $

1,508

1,692

$

$

16

(1) 

Amounts in this column represent Common Shares purchased by the trustee of the rabbi trust established by the Company 
as permitted pursuant to the terms of The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan (the “ERP”).  The ERP is an 
unfunded,  non-qualified  deferred  compensation  plan  which,  among  other  things,  provides  eligible  employees  the 
opportunity to defer compensation above specified statutory limits applicable to The Scotts Company LLC Retirement 
Savings Plan and with respect to any Executive Management Incentive Pay (as defined in the ERP), Performance Award 
(as defined in the ERP) or other bonus awarded to such eligible employees.  Pursuant to the terms of the ERP, each eligible 
employee has the right to elect an investment fund, including a fund consisting of Common Shares (the “Scotts Miracle-
Gro Common Stock Fund”), against which amounts allocated to such employee’s account under the ERP, including 
employer contributions, will be benchmarked (all ERP accounts are bookkeeping accounts only and do not represent a 
claim against specific assets of the Company).  Amounts allocated to employee accounts under the ERP represent deferred 
compensation obligations of the Company.  The Company established the rabbi trust in order to assist the Company in 
discharging such deferred compensation obligations.  When an eligible employee elects to benchmark some or all of the 
amounts allocated to such employee’s account against the Scotts Miracle-Gro Common Stock Fund, the trustee of the 
rabbi trust purchases the number of Common Shares equivalent to the amount so benchmarked.  All Common Shares 
purchased by the trustee are purchased on the open market and are held in the rabbi trust until such time as they are 
distributed pursuant to the terms of the ERP.  All assets of the rabbi trust, including any Common Shares purchased by 
the trustee, remain, at all times, assets of the Company, subject to the claims of its creditors.  The terms of the ERP do 
not provide for a specified limit on the number of Common Shares that may be purchased by the trustee of the rabbi trust.

(2)  The average price paid per Common Share is calculated on a settlement basis and includes commissions.

(3)  In August 2010, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Common 
Shares over a four-year period (through September 30, 2014).  On May 4, 2011, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors 
authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $200 million of Common Shares, resulting in authority to repurchase up 
to a total of $700 million of Common Shares through September 30, 2014.  The dollar amounts in the “Approximate 
Dollar Value” column reflect the remaining amount available to repurchase under the $700 million authorized repurchase 
program.

17

ITEM 6. 

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

Five-Year Summary(1)

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

(In millions, except per share amounts)

OPERATING RESULTS:

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 2,816.5
982.4
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
313.2
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
161.2
Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(0.1)
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax .
161.1
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ 2,826.1
961.3
243.6
113.2
(6.7)
106.5

$ 2,799.7
1,009.2
274.8
139.9
28.0
167.9

$ 2,873.0
1,085.6
374.4
207.7
(3.6)
204.1

$ 2,715.3
986.7
273.4
140.9
12.4
153.3

ADJUSTED OPERATING RESULTS(2):

Adjusted income from operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Adjusted income from continuing operations. . . . . . . . .

333.5
174.4

FINANCIAL POSITION:

Working capital(3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Current ratio(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total debt to total book capitalization(4). . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Total shareholders’ equity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

371.2
1.7
422.3
1,937.2

44.5%
570.5
710.5

CASH FLOWS:

Cash flows from operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Investments in property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . .
Investments in intellectual property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in acquisitions, net of cash acquired. . . . . .
Total cash dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total purchases of common shares. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

342.0
60.1
—
4.0
87.8
—

PER SHARE DATA:

Earnings per common share from continuing
operations:

Basic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Diluted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusted diluted(2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends per common share(5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock price at year-end. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock price range—High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stock price range—Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.61
2.58
2.79
1.4125
55.03
55.99
39.64

OTHER:

Adjusted EBITDA(6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Leverage ratio(6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest coverage ratio(6). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weighted average common shares outstanding . . . . . . .
Common shares and dilutive potential common
shares used in diluted EPS calculation. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

390.5
2.05
6.59
61.7

62.6

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

258.9
124.9

566.4
2.3
427.4
2,074.4

56.5%
782.6
601.9

153.4
69.4
—
7.0
75.4
17.5

1.86
1.82
2.01
1.225
43.47
55.95
35.49

302.9
2.93
4.90
61.0

62.1

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

345.3
187.2

523.9
2.1
394.7
2,052.2

58.7%
795.0
559.8

122.1
72.7
—
7.9
67.9
358.7

2.16
2.11
2.83
1.05
44.60
60.62
39.99

393.0
1.98
7.47
64.7

66.2

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

401.6
226.0

381.3
1.3
381.3
2,164.0

45.2%
631.7
764.5

295.9
83.4
—
0.6
42.6
25.0

3.13
3.07
3.34
0.625
51.73
52.56
37.50

440.1
2.00
9.40
66.3

67.6

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

302.0
159.0

382.7
1.3
356.6
2,220.1

58.1%
810.1
584.5

264.6
72.0
3.4
10.7
33.4
—

2.17
2.13
2.40
0.50
42.95
44.25
18.27

350.5
3.20
6.21
65.0

66.1

18

(1) 

On July 8, 2009, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Smith & Hawken, Ltd., had adopted 
a plan to close the Smith & Hawken business.  During our first quarter of fiscal 2010, all Smith & Hawken stores were 
closed and substantially all operational activities of Smith & Hawken were discontinued.  As a result, effective in our 
first quarter of fiscal 2010, we classified Smith & Hawken as discontinued operations in accordance with accounting 
principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).  Smith & Hawken® is a registered trademark 
of Target Brands, Inc.  The Company sold the Smith & Hawken brand and certain intellectual property rights related 
thereto to Target Brands, Inc. on December 30, 2009, and subsequently changed the name of the subsidiary entity formerly 
known as Smith & Hawken, Ltd. to Teak 2, Ltd.  References in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to Smith & Hawken 
refer to the subsidiary entity, not the brand itself. 

On February 28, 2011, we completed the sale of Global Pro to ICL.  In conjunction with the transaction, Scotts LLC and 
ICL entered into several product supply agreements which are generally up to five years in duration, as well as various 
trademark and technology licensing agreements with varying durations.  Our continuing cash inflows and outflows related 
to these agreements are not considered to be significant in relation to the overall cash flows of Global Pro.  Furthermore, 
none of these agreements permit us to influence the operating or financial policies of Global Pro under the ownership of 
ICL.  Therefore, Global Pro met the criteria for presentation as discontinued operations.  As such, effective in the first 
quarter of fiscal 2011, we classified Global Pro as discontinued operations in accordance with GAAP.

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company completed the wind down of the Company's professional seed business 
(“Pro Seed”).  As a result, effective in its fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, we classified Pro Seed as discontinued operations 
in accordance with GAAP.

The Selected Financial Data has been retrospectively updated to recast Smith & Hawken, Global Pro and Pro Seed as 
discontinued operations for each period presented.

(2) 

The Five-Year Summary includes non-GAAP financial measures, as defined in Item 10(e) of SEC Regulation S-K, of 
adjusted operating income, adjusted income from continuing operations and adjusted diluted earnings per share from 
continuing operations, which exclude costs or gains related to discrete projects or transactions.  Items excluded during 
the five-year period ended September 30, 2013 consisted of charges or credits relating to refinancings, impairments, 
restructurings, product registration and recall matters, discontinued operations, and other unusual items such as costs or 
gains related to discrete projects or transactions that are apart from and not indicative of the results of the operations of 
the business.  The comparable GAAP measures are reported operating income, reported income from continuing operations 
and reported diluted earnings per share from continuing operations.  Our management believes that these non-GAAP 
measures are the most indicative of our earnings capabilities and that disclosure of these non-GAAP financial measures 
therefore  provides  useful  information  to  investors  or  other  users  of  the  financial  statements,  such  as  lenders.    A 
reconciliation of the non-GAAP to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is presented in the following tables:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Impairment, restructuring and other charges . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusted income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net of tax . . . .

Product registration and recall matters, net of tax . . . . . . . . .
Adjusted income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations. . . . . $
Impairment, restructuring and other charges, net of tax . . . .

Product registration and recall matters, net of tax . . . . . . . . .

Adjusted diluted earnings per share from continuing
operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

$

$

$

$

$

313.2
20.3

—

333.5

161.2

13.2

—

174.4

2.58

0.21

—

(In millions, except per share data)
243.6
7.1

274.8
55.9

$

$

374.4
18.5

$

$

$

$

8.2

258.9

113.2

4.3

7.4

124.9

1.82

0.07

0.12

$

$

$

$

14.6

345.3

139.9

35.3

12.0

187.2

2.11

0.53

0.19

8.7

401.6

207.7

12.7

5.6

226.0

3.07

0.19

0.08

$

$

$

$

$

273.4
—

28.6

302.0

140.9

—

18.1

159.0

2.13

—

0.27

2.79

$

2.01

$

2.83

$

3.34

$

2.40

(3) 

Working capital is calculated as current assets minus current liabilities.  Current ratio is calculated as current assets divided 
by current liabilities. 

19

(4) 

(5) 

(6) 

The total debt to total book capitalization percentage is calculated by dividing total debt by total debt plus shareholders’ 
equity.

Scotts Miracle-Gro began paying a quarterly dividend of $0.125 per Common Share in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005. 
On August 10, 2010, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend 
to $0.25 per Common Share, which was first paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010.  On August 8, 2011, Scotts Miracle-
Gro announced that its Board of Directors had increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.30 per Common Share, which 
was first paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011.  On August 9, 2012, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of 
Directors had further increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.325 per Common Share, which was first paid in the 
fourth quarter of fiscal 2012.  On August 6, 2013, Scotts Miracle-Gro announced that its Board of Directors had further 
increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.4375 per Common Share, which was first paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 
2013.

We view our credit facility as material to our ability to fund operations, particularly in light of our seasonality.  Please 
refer to “ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS — Our indebtedness could limit our flexibility and adversely affect our financial 
condition” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a more complete discussion of the risks associated with our debt and 
our credit facility and the restrictive covenants therein.  Our ability to generate cash flows sufficient to cover our debt 
service costs is essential to our ability to maintain our borrowing capacity.  We believe that Adjusted EBITDA provides 
additional  information  for  determining  our  ability  to  meet  debt  service  requirements.   The  presentation  of Adjusted 
EBITDA herein is intended to be consistent with the calculation of that measure as required by our borrowing arrangements, 
and used to calculate a leverage ratio (maximum of 3.50 at September 30, 2013) and an interest coverage ratio (minimum 
of 3.50 for the year ended September 30, 2013).  Leverage ratio is calculated as average total indebtedness, as described 
in our credit facility, relative to Adjusted EBITDA.  Interest coverage ratio is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided 
by interest expense, as described in our credit facility, and excludes costs related to refinancings.  Our leverage ratio was 
2.05 at September 30, 2013 and our interest coverage ratio was 6.59 for the year ended September 30, 2013.  Please refer 
to “ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF 
OPERATIONS — Liquidity and Capital Resources” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of our credit 
facility.

In accordance with the terms of our credit facility, Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as net income or loss before interest, 
taxes, depreciation and amortization as well as certain other items such as the impact of the cumulative effect of changes 
in accounting, costs associated with debt refinancing and other non-recurring, non-cash items affecting net income.  In 
addition, non-recurring cash items affecting net income that are incurred between April 3, 2011 and June 30, 2012 in an 
aggregate  amount  not  to  exceed  $40  million  are  also  excluded  from  the  determination  of Adjusted  EBITDA.    Our 
calculation of Adjusted EBITDA does not represent and should not be considered as an alternative to net income or cash 
flows from operating activities as determined by GAAP.  We make no representation or assertion that Adjusted EBITDA 
is indicative of our cash flows from operating activities or results of operations.  We have provided a reconciliation of 
Adjusted EBITDA to income from continuing operations solely for the purpose of complying with SEC regulations and 
not as an indication that Adjusted EBITDA is a substitute measure for income from continuing operations.

A numeric reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to income from continuing operations is as follows:

20

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

161.2

$

(In millions, except per share data)
113.2

139.9

$

$

207.7

$

140.9

92.8

68.6

82.7

123.5

80.2

(0.1)
(0.2)
—

59.2

—

54.9

11.2

11.2

—

0.3

—

(5.0)
(2.0)
—

61.8

—

51.5

10.9

4.7

0.2
(1.0)
—

(11.5)
(7.2)
1.2

51.0

1.7

50.3

11.4

64.3

8.7

0.5

—

390.5

$

302.9

$

393.0

$

(3.6)
3.1

—

43.2

3.7

48.5

10.9

18.5

1.0

—
(16.4)
440.1

12.4
(22.8)
—

52.4

4.0

47.9

12.5

7.4

2.9

—

12.7

$

350.5

Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income tax expense from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
(excluding Global Pro sale) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income tax expense (benefit) from discontinued operations .

Costs related to refinancings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest expense from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . .

Depreciation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss on impairment and other charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Product registration and recall matters, non-cash portion . . .

Mark-to-market adjustments on derivatives . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Smith & Hawken closure process, non-cash portion . . . . . . .
Adjusted EBITDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

21

ITEM 7.  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF 

OPERATIONS

The purpose of this discussion is to provide an understanding of our financial condition and results of operations by focusing 
on changes in certain key measures from year-to-year.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) is divided into the 
following sections:

•

•

•

•

•

•

Executive summary

Results of operations

Segment results

Liquidity and capital resources

Regulatory matters

Critical accounting policies and estimates

Executive Summary

We are dedicated to delivering strong, long-term financial results and outstanding shareholder returns by providing products 
of superior quality and value to enhance consumers’ lawn and garden environments.  We are a leading manufacturer and marketer 
of consumer branded products for lawn and garden care in North America and Europe.  We are Monsanto’s exclusive agent for 
the  marketing  and  distribution  of  consumer  Roundup®  non-selective  herbicide  products  within  the  United  States  and  other 
contractually specified countries.  We have a presence in similar consumer branded products in Australia, the Far East and Latin 
America.  We also operate Scotts LawnService®, the second largest U.S. lawn care service business.  Our operations are divided 
into the following reportable segments: Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService®.

In fiscal 2013, we progressed a number of key initiatives which focused on: (1) margin improvement and SG&A reduction 
and (2) stronger balance sheet and operating cash flow with a bias towards returning cash to shareholders.  After a late start to the 
season impacting first half results, strong consumer engagement and our initiatives came together in the second half of the year 
to lift full year results.  We also continued our long-term focus on innovation and global expansion.

As  a  leading  consumer  branded  lawn  and  garden  company,  our  product  development  and  marketing  efforts  are  largely 
focused on providing innovative and differentiated products and on continually increasing brand and product awareness to inspire 
consumers and create retail demand.  We have successfully applied this model for a number of years by focusing on research and 
development and investing approximately 5 - 6% of our annual net sales in advertising to support and promote our products and 
brands.  We continually explore new and innovative ways to communicate with consumers.  We believe that we receive a significant 
return  on  these  expenditures  and  anticipate  a  similar  commitment  to  research  and  development,  advertising  and  marketing 
investments in the future, with the continuing objective of driving category growth and profitably increasing market share.

Our sales in any one year are susceptible to weather conditions in the markets in which our products are sold.  For instance, 
periods of abnormally wet or dry weather can adversely impact sale of certain products, while increasing demand for other products. 
We believe that our diversified product line and our broad geographic diversification reduce this risk, although to a lesser extent 
in a year where unfavorable weather is geographically wide-spread and extends across a significant portion of the lawn and garden 
season.  We also believe that weather conditions in any one year, positive or negative, do not materially alter longer-term category 
growth trends.

Due to the nature of the lawn and garden business, significant portions of our products ship to our retail customers during 
our second and third fiscal quarters, as noted in the chart below.  Our annual sales are further concentrated in the second and third 
fiscal quarters by retailers who rely on our ability to deliver products closer to when consumers buy our products, thereby reducing 
retailers’ pre-season inventories.

22

Percent of Net Sales from Continuing 
Operations by Quarter

2013

2012

2011

First Quarter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Second Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Third Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fourth Quarter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7.3%
36.2%
40.8%
15.7%

7.1%
41.4%
37.3%
14.2%

8.1%
40.1%
37.4%
14.4%

Management focuses on a variety of key indicators and operating metrics to monitor the financial condition and performance 
of the continuing operations of our business.  These metrics include consumer purchases (point-of-sale data), market share, category 
growth, net sales (including unit volume, pricing, and foreign exchange movements), gross profit margins, advertising to net sales 
ratios, income from operations, income from continuing operations, net income and earnings per share.  To the extent applicable, 
these measures are evaluated with and without impairment, restructuring and other charges as well as product registration and 
recall matters, which management believes are not indicative of the earnings capabilities of our businesses.  We also focus on 
measures  to  optimize  cash  flow  and  return  on  invested  capital,  including  the  management  of  working  capital  and  capital 
expenditures.

In August 2010, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Scotts 
Miracle-Gro’s common shares (the “Common Shares”) over a four-year period through September 30, 2014.  In May 2011, the 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $200 million of the Common Shares, 
resulting in authority to repurchase up to a total of $700 million of the Common Shares through September 30, 2014.  Since 
inception of the program in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010 through September 30, 2013, Scotts Miracle-Gro has repurchased 7.8 
million Common  Shares  for $401.2  million to  be  held  in  treasury,  leaving  $298.8  million  authorized  for  repurchases  through 
September 30, 2014.

Further, on August 6, 2013, we announced that the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors increased our quarterly dividend 
from $0.325 to $0.4375 per common share.  The decision to increase the amount of cash we intend to return to our shareholders 
reflects our continued confidence in the business and our desire to maintain a consistent capital structure. 

Results of Operations

We classified our professional seed business and Global Professional business (excluding our non-European professional 
business, “Global Pro”) as discontinued operations, for all periods presented, beginning in our fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 and 
our first quarter of fiscal 2011, respectively.  As a result, and unless specifically stated, all discussions regarding results for the 
fiscal years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 reflect results from our continuing operations.

23

The following table sets forth the components of income and expense as a percentage of net sales:

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales—impairment, restructuring and other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales—product registration and recall matters. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating expenses: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment, restructuring and other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Product registration and recall matters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Costs related to refinancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from continuing operations before income taxes . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net Sales

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

100.0%
65.0
0.1
—
34.9

23.5
0.6
—
(0.3)
11.1
—
2.1
9.0
3.3
5.7
—
5.7%

100.0%
66.0
—
—
34.0

25.0
0.3
0.3
(0.1)
8.5
—
2.2
6.3
2.4
3.9
(0.2)
3.7%

100.0%
63.2
0.7
0.1
36.0

24.4
1.3
0.4
—
9.9
0.1
1.8
8.0
3.0
5.0
1.0
6.0%

Net sales for fiscal 2013 decreased 0.3% to $2.82 billion from $2.83 billion in fiscal 2012.  Net sales for fiscal 2012 increased 

0.9% from $2.80 billion in fiscal 2011.  The change in net sales was attributable to the following:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

Volume. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pricing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign exchange rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acquisitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(1.9)%
1.6
(0.2)
0.2
(0.3)%

0.7%
0.7
(0.7)
0.2
0.9%

The decrease in net sales for the year ended September 30, 2013 was primarily driven by:

•

•

•

•

•

•

decreased volume in our Global Consumer segment, driven by a decrease in sales within the U.S. of fertilizers, controls
and wild bird food products, partially offset by increases within the U.S. for sales of mulch and grass seed products;

a decline in net sales attributable to reimbursements associated with our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto;

decreased sales in Corporate & Other related to ICL supply agreements, which were entered into in connection with the
sale of Global Pro in February 2011;

an  unfavorable  impact  of  foreign  exchange  rates  as  a  result  of  the  strengthening  of  the  U.S.  dollar  relative  to  other
currencies;

partially offset by the favorable impact of increased pricing in the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the U.S.; and

also partially offset by increased volume within our Scotts LawnService® segment driven by higher customer count and
a weather driven delay of sales from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 to the first quarter of fiscal 2013.

24

The increase in net sales for the year ended September 30, 2012 was primarily driven by:

•

•

•

•

increased volume in our Global Consumer segment, driven by an increase in sales within the U.S. of mulch and controls
products, offset by declines within the U.S. of wild bird food, grass seed and plant food products; international sales were
flat to fiscal 2011, excluding changes in foreign exchange rates;

increased volume within our Scotts LawnService® segment driven by higher customer count;

increased sales in Corporate & Other related to ICL supply agreements, which were entered into in connection with the
sale of Global Pro in February 2011; and

partially offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar
relative to other currencies.

Cost of Sales

The following table shows the major components of cost of sales:

Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Manufacturing labor and overhead. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Distribution and warehousing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Roundup® reimbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

1,113.1
332.4
324.4
62.0
1,831.9
2.2
—
1,834.1

$

$

1,142.2
321.9
320.7
79.6
1,864.4
—
0.4
1,864.8

$

$

1,079.5
319.3
306.5
63.7
1,769.0
18.3
3.2
1,790.5

Factors contributing to the change in cost of sales are outlined in the following table:

Material costs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Volume and product mix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Roundup® reimbursements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign exchange rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Change in cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)
(8.6) $
(1.5)
(17.6)
(4.8)
(32.5)
2.2
(0.4)
(30.7) $

68.3
25.4
15.9
(14.2)
95.4
(18.3)
(2.8)
74.3

The decrease in cost of sales, excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges, and product registration and recall matters 
for fiscal 2013 was primarily driven by: 

•

•

•

•

lower reimbursements attributable to our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto;

a decline in our growing media material costs due to our product cost-out initiatives, partially offset by increased costs
of fertilizer inputs and packaging;

decreased volume in our Global Consumer segment, driven by a decrease in sales within the U.S. of fertilizers, controls
and wild bird food products, partially offset by increases within the U.S. for sales of growing media and grass seed
products; and

a favorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies.

25

The increase in cost of sales, excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges, and product registration and recall matters 
for fiscal 2012 was primarily driven by: 

•

•

•

•

the increase in material costs primarily related to packaging for products and fertilizer inputs;

the impact of higher sales volume, including increased distribution costs resulting from an early season surge in consumer
activity and continued and unplanned surge in mulch volume;

higher reimbursements attributable to our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto; and

partially offset by the favorable impact of foreign exchange rates as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative
to other currencies.

Gross Profit

As a percentage of net sales, our gross profit rate was 34.9% for fiscal 2013 compared to 34.0% for fiscal 2012.  As a 
percentage of net sales, our gross profit rate was 34.0% for fiscal 2012 compared to 36.0% for fiscal 2011.  Factors contributing 
to the change in gross profit rate are outlined in the following table:

Pricing
Material costs
Product mix and volume:

Roundup® commissions and reimbursements
Corporate & Other
Scotts LawnService®
Global Consumer mix and volume

Impairment, restructuring and other
Product registration and recall matters
Change in gross profit rate

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

1.0%
0.3

0.2
0.1
0.1
(0.7)
1.0
(0.1)
—
0.9%

0.5 %
(2.5)

(0.1)
(0.2)
—
(0.5)
(2.8)
0.7
0.1
(2.0)%

The increase in the gross profit rate, excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges and product registration and recall 
matters, for fiscal 2013, was primarily driven by: 

•

•

•

•

favorable impact of increased pricing for the Global Consumer segment, primarily in the U.S.;

decreased material costs in our Global Consumer segment due to a decline in growing media material costs resulting
from product cost-out initiatives, partially offset by increased material costs for fertilizer inputs;

impact of zero margin dollar reimbursements, attributable to our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto; and

partially offset by decreased volume in our Global Consumer segment resulting in reduced leverage of fixed manufacturing
and warehousing costs.

The decrease in the gross profit rate, excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges and product registration and recall 
matters, for fiscal 2012, was primarily driven by:

•

•

•

•

increased material costs attributable primarily to packaging for products and fertilizer inputs;

negative product mix, driven by increased sales of our mulch products within the U.S., and international;

increased costs for distribution as a result of an early season surge in consumer activity and continued and unplanned
surge in mulch volume; and

increased sales associated with our supply agreements with ICL, which commenced with the sale of Global Pro in February
2011 and do not generate profit.

26

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

The following table shows the major components of Selling, General and Administrative expenses (“SG&A”):

Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Advertising as a percentage of net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of intangibles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions, except percentage figures)

142.2

$

168.9

$

5.0%
10.3
46.7
8.2
453.7
661.1

$

6.0%
12.5
50.8
8.2
465.3
705.7

$

140.7

5.0%
15.9
50.9
9.5
469.3
686.3

Advertising expense decreased $26.7 million or 15.8% to $142.2 million in fiscal 2013 compared to $168.9 million in fiscal 
2012.  This decrease was primarily attributable to our planned reduction in media investment, reduced spending due to delay in 
the fiscal 2013 lawn and garden season and our media purchasing efficiencies within the Global Consumer segment.  Advertising 
expense in fiscal 2012 increased $28.2 million compared to fiscal 2011, driven by our planned increase in media and marketing 
initiatives, partially offset by $1.1 million of changes in foreign currency rates.

Share-based compensation decreased $2.2 million or 17.6% to $10.3 million in fiscal 2013 compared to $12.5 million in 
fiscal  2012.   The  decrease  in  share-based  compensation  expense  in  fiscal  2013  was  primarily  due  to  the  forfeiture  of  shares 
associated with the departure of certain key executives.  Fiscal 2012 share-based compensation expense declined $3.4 million 
primarily due to the acceleration of expense in fiscal 2011 for certain terminated employees.  The majority of our share-based 
awards vest over three years, with the associated expense recognized ratably over the vesting period.  In certain cases, such as 
individuals who are eligible for early retirement based on their age and years of service, the vesting period is shorter than three 
years. 

Amortization expense was $8.2 million in fiscal 2013, compared to $8.2 million and $9.5 million in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 
2011, respectively.  The decline in fiscal 2012 was driven by assets that became fully amortized in fiscal 2011 and due to impairment 
of certain intangible assets in fiscal 2011.

Other SG&A decreased $11.6 million or 2.5% in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012.  The primary driver of the decrease 
was due to a decline in outside consulting expenses, selling and marketing expenditures due to cost productivity initiatives, partially 
offset by higher compensation expense, including incentive compensation, healthcare and severance.  In fiscal 2012, Other SG&A 
spending was roughly flat compared to fiscal 2011.

Impairment, Restructuring and Other (included in SG&A)

The following table shows the breakdown of Impairment, Restructuring and Other Charges (included in SG&A):

Restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Property, plant and equipment impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Goodwill and intangible asset impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

2.2
—
15.9
18.1

$

$

1.8
2.1
3.2
7.1

$

$

18.2
—
19.4
37.6

In  fiscal  2013  we  recorded  restructuring  charges  related  to  an  international  restructuring  plan  to  reduce  headcount  and 
streamline management decision making within the Global Consumer segment.  During fiscal 2013, we incurred $6.9 million in 
restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to employees who were involuntarily terminated and special termination 
benefits provided to certain employees upon future separation, which included $0.5 million related to curtailment gain for our 
international defined benefit pension plans.  During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company recognized income of $4.7 million 
related to the reimbursement by a vendor for a portion of the costs incurred for the development and commercialization of products 
including the active ingredient MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment. 

27

During the first quarter of 2013, the Company recognized a $4.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues with 
the commercialization of an insect repellent technology for the Global Consumer segment.  Also, as a result of the Company's 
annual impairment review performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company recognized an impairment charge for a 
non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand and certain 
sub-brands of Ortho®.  The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the historical performance and future growth 
of the Ortho® business.  

In fiscal 2012, in continuation of the 2011 restructuring plan, we incurred an additional $1.6 million in restructuring costs 
related to termination benefits provided to employees who accepted voluntary retirement and special termination benefits provided 
to certain employees upon future separation as well as $0.2 million related to curtailment charges for our U.S. defined benefit 
pension and U.S. retiree medical plans.  Additionally, we recognized a $5.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues 
with commercialization of products including the active ingredient MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment.  Further, we have 
previously expensed product development and marketing costs associated with the previously planned launch of products containing 
MAT 28 and are evaluating our options for recovering those costs.

In fiscal 2011 we recorded restructuring charges designed to streamline management decision making and continue the 
regionalization  of  our  operating  structure,  with  the  objective  of  reinvesting  the  savings  generated  in  innovation  and  growth 
initiatives.  During fiscal 2011, we incurred $23.7 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to employees 
who were involuntarily terminated and special termination benefits provided to certain employees upon future separation, as well 
as $2.3 million related to curtailment charges for our U.S. defined benefit pension and U.S. retiree medical plans.  In addition, we 
recognized charges of $2.3 million for other intangible asset impairments and $1.4 million for restructuring and other charges.

Our fourth quarter fiscal 2011 impairment analysis resulted in a non-cash charge of $17.1 million, primarily attributed to 
the  intangible  assets  and  goodwill  associated  with  our  wild  bird  food  business,  including  Morning  Song  tradename.    Losses 
generated by this business over the preceding two years combined with a revised long-term outlook had negatively impacted the 
value of the business.

Product Registration and Recall Matters (included in SG&A)

As previously disclosed in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, in 
fiscal  year  2012,  the  Company  resolved  the  previously  disclosed  U.S.  EPA  and  U.S.  Department  of  Justice  (“U.S.  DOJ”) 
investigations into pesticide product registration issues.  Product registration and recall costs were $7.8 million and $11.4 million 
in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.  For fiscal 2013, there were no product registration and recall costs.  Fiscal 2012 and 
fiscal 2011 costs include additional reserves established in connection with the fiscal 2012 settlement of previously disclosed U.S. 
EPA  and  U.S.  DOJ  investigations,  as  well  as  third-party  compliance  review,  legal  and  consulting  fees  associated  with  these 
investigations.  Fiscal 2011 costs primarily related to third-party compliance review, legal and consulting fees associated with 
these investigations.  The Company does not expect to incur any additional costs related to these investigations, as they were 
settled in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012.

Other Income, net

Other income, net, was $10.0 million, $2.9 million and $0.9 million in fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and  fiscal 2011 respectively. 
The increase in other income for fiscal 2013 is primarily due to the sale of peat bog land in fiscal 2013 in the United Kingdom for 
a gain of $2.3 million and a non-recurring impairment charge of $4.4 million incurred in fiscal 2012 resulting from the revaluation 
of the Company's aircraft.  Other income is comprised of activities outside our normal business operations, such as royalty income 
from the licensing of certain of our tradenames, franchise fee income from our Scotts LawnService® business, foreign exchange 
gains/losses and gains/losses from the sale of non-inventory assets.  The fiscal 2012 changes from fiscal 2011 were not significant.

Income from Operations

Income from operations in fiscal 2013 was $313.2 million compared to $243.6 million in fiscal 2012, an increase of $69.6 
million, or 28.6%.  Excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges and product registration and recall costs, income from 
operations increased by $74.6 million, or 28.8%, in fiscal 2013, primarily driven by higher gross profit and a decrease in SG&A 
spending.

Income from operations in fiscal 2012 was $243.6 million compared to $274.8 million in fiscal 2011, a decrease of $31.2 
million, or 11.4%.  Excluding impairment, restructuring and other charges and product registration and recall costs, income from 
operations decreased by $86.4 million, or 25.0%, in fiscal 2012, primarily driven by lower gross profit and additional SG&A 
spending.

28

Interest Expense

Interest expense in fiscal 2013 was $59.2 million compared to $61.8 million and $51.0 million in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 
2011, respectively.  The decline in fiscal 2013 was primarily due to a decrease in average borrowings, partially offset by an increase 
of 24 basis points in our weighted average interest rate.  Excluding the impact of foreign exchange rates, average borrowings 
decreased by approximately $80.9 million during fiscal 2013.  The decline in average borrowings was driven by lower working 
capital needs associated with lower production of inventory and fewer raw material purchases.  The increase in fiscal 2012 was 
primarily due to an increase in our average borrowings.  Excluding the impact of foreign exchange rates, average borrowings 
increased by approximately $118.3 million during fiscal 2012.

Income Tax Expense

A reconciliation of the federal corporate income tax rate and the effective tax rate on income from continuing operations 

before income taxes is summarized below:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

Statutory income tax rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of foreign operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State taxes, net of federal benefit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Domestic production activities deduction permanent difference

Effect of other permanent differences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and experimentation and other federal tax credits . . . .
Resolution of prior tax contingencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effective income tax rate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

35.0%
0.8
2.9
(2.1)
0.8
(0.3)
0.2
(0.8)
36.5%

35.0%
(0.5)
3.1
(1.5)
2.4
(0.1)
(0.9)
0.2
37.7%

35.0%
(0.3)
2.8
(2.3)
1.9
(0.2)
0.7
(0.4)
37.2%

The effective tax rate for continuing operations was 36.5% for fiscal 2013, compared to 37.7% for fiscal 2012 and 37.2% 
for fiscal 2011.  Excluding reserves established for product registrations and recall matters, the effective tax rate for continuing 
operations was 36.5%, 36.5% and 36.0% for fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.

Income and Earnings per Share from Continuing Operations

We reported income from continuing operations of $161.2 million, or $2.58 per diluted share, in fiscal 2013 compared to 
income from continuing operations of $113.2 million, or $1.82 per diluted share, in fiscal 2012.  In fiscal 2013, we incurred costs 
of $20.3 million relating to impairment, restructuring and other charges.  In fiscal 2012, we incurred $7.1 million of impairment, 
restructuring and other charges, as well as $8.2 million in costs associated with product registration and recall matters.  Excluding 
these items, adjusted income from continuing operations was $174.4 million in fiscal 2013 compared to $124.9 million in fiscal 
2012, an increase of $49.5 million, primarily driven by higher gross profit and lower SG&A spending and interest expense.  Diluted 
weighted-average common shares outstanding increased from 62.1 million in fiscal 2012 to 62.6 million in fiscal 2013.  The 
increase was primarily driven by the exercise of stock options and the issuance of stock for vested restricted share based awards 
partially offset by a decrease in the number of dilutive equivalent shares.  Dilutive equivalent shares for fiscal 2013 and fiscal 
2012 were 0.9 million and 1.1 million, respectively.  The decrease in equivalent shares was primarily driven by the exercise of 
stock options, partially offset by an increase in our average share price.

We reported income from continuing operations of $113.2 million, or $1.82 per diluted share, in fiscal 2012 compared to 
income from continuing operations of $139.9 million, or $2.11 per diluted share, in fiscal 2011.  In fiscal 2012, we incurred costs 
of $7.1 million relating to impairment, restructuring and other charges, as well as $8.2 million in costs associated with product 
registration and recall matters.  In fiscal 2011, we incurred $55.9 million of impairment charges, as well as $14.6 million in costs 
associated with product registration and recall matters.  Excluding these items, adjusted income from continuing operations was 
$124.9 million in fiscal 2012 compared to $187.2 million in fiscal 2011, a decrease of $62.3 million, primarily driven by lower 
gross profit, higher SG&A spending and interest expense.  Diluted weighted-average common shares outstanding decreased from 
66.2 million in fiscal 2011 to 62.1 million in fiscal 2012.  The decrease was primarily driven by repurchases of our common shares 
and a decrease in the number of dilutive equivalent shares, partially offset by the exercise of stock options.  Dilutive equivalent 
shares for fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011 were 1.1 million and 1.5 million, respectively.  The decrease in equivalent shares was due 
to a decrease in our average share price.

29

Income (loss) from Discontinued Operations

In our fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, we completed the wind down of the professional seed business.  As a result, we began 
presenting this business within discontinued operations.  In our second quarter of fiscal 2011 we completed the sale of Global Pro 
to ICL.  As a result of the then-pending sale, effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2011, we began presenting Global Pro as 
discontinued operations.

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax, was $0.1 million in fiscal 2013, while a loss of $6.7 million and income of 
$28.0 million were recognized in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.  Fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 included activity associated 
with the wind down and disposal of the non-European professional seed business.  Fiscal 2011 included a net after-tax gain of 
$39.5 million on the sale of Global Pro to ICL.

Segment Results

Our continuing operations are divided into the following reportable segments: Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService®. 
This division of reportable segments is consistent with how the segments report to and are managed by the chief operating decision 
maker of the Company.  We have made reclassifications to prior period segment amounts as a result of the change in our internal 
organization structure associated with the sale of a significant majority of our previously reported Global Professional segment, 
which  is  now  reported  in  discontinued  operations.    Corporate &  Other  includes  revenues  and  expenses  associated  with  the 
Company’s supply agreements with ICL and the amortization related to the Roundup® Marketing Agreement, as well as corporate 
general and administrative expenses and certain other income/expense items not allocated to the business segments.

We  evaluate  segment  performance  based  on  several  factors,  including  income  from  continuing  operations  before 
amortization, product registration and recall costs, and impairment, restructuring and other charges.  Management uses this measure 
of operating profit to evaluate segment performance because we believe this measure is the most indicative of performance trends 
and the overall earnings potential of each segment.

The following tables present segment information:

Net Sales by Segment

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

Global Consumer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Scotts LawnService® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Segment total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate & Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2,527.5
257.8
2,785.3
31.2
2,816.5

$

$

2,539.2
245.8
2,785.0
41.1
2,826.1

Income from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes by Segment

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

Global Consumer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Scotts LawnService® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Segment total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate & Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible asset amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Costs related to refinancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

406.4
28.7
435.1
(91.2)
(10.4)
—
(20.3)
—
(59.2)
254.0

$

$

338.3
27.0
365.3
(96.3)
(10.1)
(8.2)
(7.1)
—
(61.8)
181.8

$

$

$

$

2,533.2
235.6
2,768.8
30.9
2,799.7

2011

425.0
25.9
450.9
(95.0)
(10.6)
(14.6)
(55.9)
(1.2)
(51.0)
222.6

30

Global Consumer

Global Consumer segment net sales decreased 0.5% from $2.54 billion in fiscal 2012 to $2.53 billion in fiscal 2013.  The 
change in fiscal 2013 net sales was unfavorably impacted by volume and foreign exchange rates of 2.2% and 0.3%, respectively, 
partially offset by favorable pricing of 1.9% and acquisitions of  0.1%.  Net sales in the U.S. decreased by 0.5%, driven by declines 
in reimbursements attributable to our Marketing Agreement with Monsanto, sales of our controls, wild bird food and plant food 
products, partially offset by an increase in pricing, and increases in sales of mulch and grass seed products.  Net sales outside of 
the U.S. decreased 0.2% in fiscal 2013, primarily attributable to volume declines in Europe and unfavorable effects of foreign 
currency changes as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies, partially offset by volume increases 
in Asia Pacific.  Excluding the impact of foreign currency rates, net sales outside of the U.S. increased 1.1% compared to fiscal 
2012.

Global Consumer segment income for fiscal 2013 was $406.4 million, an increase of $68.1 million, or 20.1%, compared to 
fiscal 2012.  Excluding the impact of foreign exchange movements, segment income increased by $67.3 million, or 20.0%, from 
fiscal 2012.  The increase in segment income for fiscal 2013 was primarily driven by the favorable impact of pricing, decreased 
material costs and a decrease in SG&A expenses resulting from our product cost-out initiatives.

Global Consumer segment net sales increased 0.2% from $2.53 billion in fiscal 2011 to $2.54 billion in fiscal 2012.  The 
increase in fiscal 2012 net sales was favorably impacted by volume and pricing of 0.4% and 0.6%, respectively, offset by unfavorable 
foreign exchange rates of 0.8%.  Net sales in the U.S. increased by 1.3%, driven by an increase in pricing, higher sales of our 
controls and mulch products, and the national launch of our new Scotts Snap® spreader system, partially offset by declines in sales 
of grass seed, wild bird food and plant food products.  Net sales outside of the U.S. decreased 4.0% in fiscal 2012, primarily 
attributable to the unfavorable effect of foreign currency changes as a result of the strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to other 
currencies.  Excluding the impact of foreign currency rates, net sales outside of the U.S. were roughly flat compared to fiscal 2011.

Global Consumer segment income for fiscal 2012 was $338.3 million, a decrease of $86.7 million, or 20.4%, compared to 
fiscal 2011.  Excluding the impact of foreign exchange movements, segment income decreased by $85.6 million, or 20.1%, for 
fiscal 2011.  The decrease in segment income for fiscal 2012 was primarily driven by gross profit decline and an increase in SG&A 
expenses.  The decreased gross profit rate was primarily the result of increased material costs primarily due to packaging and 
fertilizer inputs, negative product mix within the U.S. driven by increased sales of mulch products, and increased distribution and 
warehousing as a result of an early season surge in consumer activity and continued and unplanned surge in mulch volume.  The 
increase in SG&A spending primarily related to costs associated with our planned increase in media and marketing initiatives.

Scotts LawnService®

Scotts LawnService® net sales increased by $12.0 million, or 4.9%, to $257.8 million in fiscal 2013, primarily due to increased 
customer count, acquisitions in fiscal 2013, and a weather driven delay of sales from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 into the first 
quarter of fiscal 2013.  Scotts LawnService® segment income increased $1.7 million to $28.7 million in fiscal 2013.  The improved 
operating results were driven by higher net sales and lower product costs, partially offset by higher SG&A, which was primarily 
the outcome of higher marketing and selling expenses.

Scotts LawnService® net sales increased by $10.2 million, or 4.3%, to $245.8 million in fiscal 2012, primarily due to increased 
customer retention, the full year impact of acquisitions and new customer sales.  Scotts LawnService® segment income increased 
$1.1 million to $27.0 million in fiscal 2012.  The improved operating results were driven by higher net sales and improved labor 
productivity, partially offset by higher product costs and SG&A, which was primarily the outcome of higher performance based 
variable compensation.

Corporate & Other

Net sales for Corporate & Other decreased $9.9 million to $31.2 million in fiscal 2013, primarily due to our ICL supply 
agreements, which commenced shortly after the sale of Global Pro in our second quarter of fiscal 2011.  The net expense for 
Corporate & Other decrease of $5.1 million in fiscal 2013 was driven by reduced spending on outside consulting expenses and 
marketing related expenditures as part of our cost productivity initiatives, partially offset by higher employee related costs, including 
incentive compensation, health care and severance.

Net sales for Corporate & Other increased $10.2 million to $41.1 million in fiscal 2012, primarily due to our ICL supply 
agreements, which commenced shortly after the sale of Global Pro in our second quarter of fiscal 2011.  Net expense for Corporate & 
Other increased by $1.3 million in fiscal 2012, driven by increased variable compensation of $1.3 million.

31

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Operating Activities

Cash provided by operating activities increased by $188.6 million to $342.0 million in fiscal 2013.  The change in our 
operating activities was primarily due to an increase in net income of $54.6 million and a reduction in inventory levels over the 
prior year of $89.0 million as a result of improved inventory management.  In addition, income taxes paid declined in fiscal 2013 
due to the receipt of an overpayment of taxes related to fiscal 2012 of $37.8 million.

Cash provided by operating activities increased by $31.3 million to $153.4 million in fiscal 2012 from $122.1 million in 
fiscal 2011.  Excluding the impact of discontinued operations, cash provided by operating activities decreased by $48.2 million 
to $143.1 million in fiscal 2012 compared to a decrease of $118.1 million in fiscal 2011.  Excluding discontinued operations and 
non-cash operating expenses, income from continuing operations decreased by approximately $24.7 million primarily due to lower 
gross profit rates and higher advertising expenses.

The seasonal nature of our operations generally requires cash to fund significant increases in inventories during the first half 
of the fiscal year.  Receivables and payables also build substantially in the second quarter of the fiscal year in line with the timing 
of sales to support our retailers’ spring selling season.  These balances liquidate during the June through September period as the 
lawn and garden season unwinds.  Unlike our core Global Consumer segment, Scotts LawnService® typically has its highest 
receivables balance in the fourth quarter because of the seasonal timing of customer applications and service revenues.

Investing Activities

Cash used in investing activities totaled $64.2 million and $75.7 million in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively.  The 
change in our investing activities was primarily driven by a reduction of capital investments in property, plant and equipment and 
acquisitions of $9.3 million and $3.8 million, respectively and cash proceeds from the sale of long-lived assets of $3.6 million. 
Significant capital projects during fiscal 2013 included investments in our mulch production facilities associated with our product 
cost-out initiatives, additional capital to increase capabilities in our fertilizer production facilities, improvements to our inventory 
warehouse management system and investments in information technology.  Further, during fiscal 2013 we completed an acquisition 
of two franchisee businesses within our Scotts LawnService® segment for $3.2 million and an investment of an unconsolidated 
affiliate in the indoor gardening market for $4.5 million.

Cash used in investing activities totaled $75.7 million in fiscal 2012, as compared to cash provided by investing activities 
of $153.5 million for fiscal 2011.  The change in our investing activities was primarily driven by the cash received from the sale 
of our Global Pro business, which generated $253.6 million in cash in fiscal 2011.  Capital spending decreased from $72.7 million 
in fiscal 2011 to $69.4 million in fiscal 2012.  Significant capital projects during fiscal 2012 included a new growing media plant 
in Texas, additional capital for our liquid production facilities in Iowa and Mississippi, improvements at various other growing 
media production facilities and investments in information technology.  Further, during fiscal 2012 we completed an acquisition 
within our Global Consumer segment with total cash paid of $6.7 million.

For  the  three  years  ended  September 30,  2013,  our  capital  spending  was  allocated  as  follows:  62%  for  expansion  and 
maintenance of existing Global Consumer productive assets; 17% for new productive assets supporting our Global Consumer 
segment; 11% to expand our information technology and transformation and integration capabilities; 3% for expansion and upgrades 
of Scotts LawnService® infrastructure; and 7% for Corporate & Other assets.

Financing Activities

Financing activities used cash of $280.6 million and $79.3 million in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively.  Cash returned 
to  shareholders  through  dividends  of  $87.8  million  and  reduced  borrowings  under  our  credit  facility  of  $196.7  million  were 
significant elements of cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2013.  Net payments under our credit facilities were $207.3 million 
in fiscal 2013, compared to $10.6 million in fiscal 2012.  Financing activities also included a decrease in cash received from the 
exercise of stock options of $4.3 million in fiscal 2013 compared to fiscal 2012.

Financing activities used cash of $79.3 million and $230.7 million in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.  Cash returned 
to shareholders through dividends of $75.4 million and the repurchasing of  Common Shares of $17.5 million were significant 
elements of cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2012.  Net payments under our credit facilities were $10.6 million in fiscal 
2012, compared to $22.0 million in fiscal 2011.  Financing activities also included a decrease in cash received from the exercise 
of stock options of $13.9 million in fiscal 2012 compared to fiscal 2011.

32

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Our cash and cash equivalents were held in depository accounts with major financial institutions around the world or invested 
in high quality, short-term liquid investments, with original maturities of three months or less with a balance of $129.8 million as 
of  September 30,  2013,  compared  to  $131.9  million  as  of  September 30,  2012.    The  cash  and  cash  equivalents  balance  at 
September 30, 2013 included $120.4 million held by controlled foreign corporations.  Our current plans do not demonstrate a need 
to,  nor  do  we  have  plans  to,  repatriate  the  retained  earnings  from  these  foreign  corporations  as  the  earnings  are  indefinitely 
reinvested.  However, in the future, if we determine it is necessary to repatriate these funds, or if we sell or liquidate any of these 
foreign corporations, we may be required to pay associated taxes on the repatriation.

Borrowing Arrangements

Our primary sources of liquidity are cash generated by operations and borrowings under our credit agreement which is 
guaranteed by substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries.  On June 30, 2011, we and certain of our subsidiaries entered into a 
second amended and restated senior secured credit facility, providing for revolving loans in the aggregate principal amount of up 
to $1.7 billion over a five year term.  Borrowings may be made in various currencies including U.S. dollars, Euros, British pounds, 
Australian dollars and Canadian dollars.  Under this credit facility, we may request up to an additional $450 million  in revolving 
and/or term commitments, subject to certain specified conditions, including approval from the lenders.  The credit facility replaced 
our previous senior secured credit facilities, which were comprised of: (a) a senior secured revolving loan facility in the aggregate 
principal amount of up to $1.59 billion and (b) a senior secured term loan facility totaling $560 million.  The previous credit 
facilities were scheduled to expire in February 2012.

The terms of the credit facility provide for customary representations and warranties and affirmative covenants.  The credit 
facility also contains customary negative covenants setting forth limitations, subject to negotiated carve-outs on liens; contingent 
obligations;  fundamental  changes;  acquisitions,  investments,  loans  and  advances;  indebtedness;  restrictions  on  subsidiary 
distributions; transactions with affiliates and officers; sales of assets; sale and leaseback transactions; changing our fiscal year 
end; modifications of certain debt instruments; negative pledge clauses; entering into new lines of business; and restricted payments, 
which are limited to an aggregate of $125 million annually through fiscal 2013 and $150 million annually beginning in fiscal 2014 
if our leverage ratio, after giving effect to any such annual dividend payment, exceeds 2.50.  The credit facility is secured by 
collateral that includes the capital stock of specified subsidiaries, substantially all domestic accounts receivable (exclusive of any 
“sold” receivables), inventory and equipment.  The credit facility is guaranteed by substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries.

Under our credit facility, we have the ability to obtain letters of credit up to $75 million outstanding.  At September 30, 
2013, the Company had letters of credit in the aggregate face amount of $23.3 million outstanding, and $1.6 billion of availability 
under its credit facility.  

On January 14, 2010, we issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2018.  The net proceeds 
of the offering were used to reduce outstanding borrowings under our then existing credit facilities.  The 7.25% Senior Notes 
represent general unsecured senior obligations, and were sold to the public at 99.254% of the principal amount thereof, to yield 
7.375% to maturity.  The 7.25% Senior Notes have interest payment dates of January 15 and July 15 of each year, which began 
on July 15, 2010 and may be redeemed prior to maturity at applicable redemption premiums.  The 7.25% Senior Notes contain 
usual and customary incurrence-based covenants, which include, but are not limited to, restrictions on the incurrence of additional 
indebtedness, the incurrence of liens and the issuance of certain preferred shares, and the making of certain distributions, investments 
and other restricted payments, as well as other usual and customary covenants, which include, but are not limited to, restrictions 
on sale and leaseback transactions, restrictions on purchases or redemptions of Scotts Miracle-Gro stock and prepayments of 
subordinated debt, limitations on asset sales and restrictions on transactions with affiliates.  The 7.25% Senior Notes mature on 
January 15, 2018.  Substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of the 7.25% Senior Notes.

On December 16, 2010, we issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020 in a private 
placement exempt from the registration requirements under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.  The net proceeds of the 
offering were used to repay outstanding borrowings under our then existing credit facilities and for general corporate purposes. 
The 6.625% Senior Notes represent general unsecured senior obligations and rank equal in right of payment with our existing and 
future unsecured senior debt, including, without limitation, the 7.25% Senior Notes.  The 6.625% Senior Notes have interest 
payment dates of June 15 and December 15 of each year, which began on June 15, 2011, and may be redeemed prior to maturity 
at applicable redemption premiums.  The 6.625% Senior Notes contain usual and customary incurrence-based covenants, as well 
as other usual and customary covenants, substantially similar to those contained in the 7.25% Senior Notes.  The 6.625% Senior 
Notes mature on December 15, 2020.  Substantially all of our domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of  the 6.625% Senior 
Notes. 

33

We are in compliance with the terms of all debt covenants at September 30, 2013.  The credit facility contains, among other 
obligations, an affirmative covenant regarding our leverage ratio, calculated as average total indebtedness, as described in the our 
credit facility, relative to the our EBITDA, as adjusted pursuant to the terms of the credit facility (“Adjusted EBITDA”).  Under 
the terms of the credit facility, the maximum allowable leverage ratio was 3.50 as of September 30, 2013.  Our leverage ratio was 
2.05 at September 30, 2013.  Our credit facility also includes an affirmative covenant regarding our interest coverage ratio.  Interest 
coverage ratio is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by interest expense, as described in the credit facility, and excludes costs 
related to refinancings.  Under the terms of the credit facility, the minimum allowable interest coverage ratio was 3.50 for the year 
ended September 30, 2013.  Our interest coverage ratio was 6.59 for the year ended September 30, 2013.  The weighted average 
interest rates on average debt were 6.2% and 6.0% for fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively.  Please see “ITEM 6.  SELECTED 
FINANCIAL DATA” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for further details pertaining to the calculations of the foregoing ratios.

At September 30, 2013, we had outstanding interest rate swap agreements with major financial institutions that effectively 
converted the LIBOR index portion of variable-rate debt denominated in U.S. dollars to a fixed rate.  The swap agreements had 
a total U.S. dollar notional amount of $1,100 million at September 30, 2013.  Interest payments made between the effective date 
and expiration date are hedged by the swap agreements, except as noted below.  The notional amount, effective date, expiration 
date and rate of each of these swap agreements are shown in the table below.

Notional Amount
(in millions)
50
150
150
50
100
150
50
150
50
200

(b)

(c)

(b)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(b)

(b)

(c)

Effective
Date (a)
2/14/2012
2/7/2012
11/16/2009
2/16/2010
2/21/2012
12/20/2011
12/6/2012
2/7/2017
2/7/2017
12/20/2016

Expiration
Date
2/14/2016
5/7/2016
5/16/2016
5/16/2016
5/23/2016
6/20/2016
9/6/2017
5/7/2019
5/7/2019
6/20/2019

Fixed
Rate
3.78%
2.42%
3.26%
3.05%
2.40%
2.61%
2.96%
2.12%
2.25%
2.12%

(a) 
(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

The effective date refers to the date on which interest payments were, or will be, first hedged by the applicable swap agreement.
Interest payments made during the three-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged 
by the swap agreement.
Interest payments made during the six-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged 
by the swap agreement.
Interest payments made during the nine-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date are hedged 
by the swap agreement.

The Company maintains a Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement (“MARP Agreement”), which is uncommitted 
and provides for the discretionary sale by the Company, and the discretionary purchase by the banks, on a revolving basis, of 
accounts receivable generated by sales to three specified account debtors in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400 million.  On 
October 25, 2013, the Company signed an amendment to the existing MARP Agreement which extended the termination date to 
August 29, 2014, or such later date as may be mutually agreed by the Company and the banks party thereto.  Under the amended 
terms of the MARP Agreement, the banks have the opportunity to purchase those accounts receivable offered by the Company at 
a discount (from the agreed base value thereof) effectively equal to the one-week LIBOR plus 0.75%.  There were $85.3 million 
of short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2013 and no short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2012 under the MARP 
Agreement.  The carrying value of the receivables pledged as collateral was $106.7 million as of September 30, 2013.

We continue to monitor our compliance with the leverage ratio, interest coverage ratio and other covenants contained in the 
credit facility and, based upon our current operating assumptions, we expect to remain in compliance with the permissible leverage 
ratio and interest coverage ratio throughout fiscal 2014.  However, an unanticipated charge to earnings, an increase in debt or other 
factors could materially affect our ability to remain in compliance with the financial or other covenants of our credit facility, 
potentially causing us to have to seek an amendment or waiver from our lending group which could result in repricing of our credit 
facility.

In our opinion, cash flows from operations and capital resources will be sufficient to meet debt service, capital expenditures 
and working capital needs during fiscal 2014, and thereafter for the foreseeable future.  However, we cannot ensure that our 
business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings will be available under our credit facility in 
amounts sufficient to pay indebtedness or fund other liquidity needs.  Actual results of operations will depend on numerous factors, 

34

many of which are beyond our control, as further discussed in “ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS — Our indebtedness could limit our 
flexibility and adversely affect our financial condition” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Judicial and Administrative Proceedings

We are party to various pending judicial and administrative proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business, including, 
among others, proceedings based on accidents or product liability claims and alleged violations of environmental laws.  We have 
reviewed these pending judicial and administrative proceedings, including the probable outcomes, reasonably anticipated costs 
and expenses, and the availability and limits of our insurance coverage, and have established what we believe to be appropriate 
reserves.  We do not believe that any liabilities that may result from these pending judicial and administrative proceedings are 
reasonably likely to have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows; however, there can be 
no assurance that future quarterly or annual operating results will not be materially affected by final resolution of these matters.

Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes our future cash outflows for contractual obligations as of September 30, 2013:

Contractual Cash Obligations

Payments Due by Period

Total

Less Than 1 
Year

1-3 Years

4-5 Years

More Than
5  Years

Debt obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense on debt obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating lease obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase obligations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, primarily retirement plan obligations . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total contractual cash obligations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

570.5
201.1
179.0
211.3
87.9
$ 1,249.8

$

$

(In millions)
76.1
$
85.2
66.1
75.7
17.7
320.8

$

$

$

92.4
43.9
47.0
114.3
9.9
307.5

201.0
52.8
30.8
21.0
15.3
320.9

$

$

201.0
19.2
35.1
0.3
45.0
300.6

We have long-term debt obligations and interest payments due primarily under the 7.25% and 6.625% Senior Notes and our 
credit facility.  Amounts in the table represent scheduled future maturities of long-term debt principal for the periods indicated. 
The interest payments for our credit facility is based on outstanding borrowings as of September 30, 2013.  Actual interest expense 
will likely be higher due to the seasonality of our business and associated higher average borrowings.

Purchase  obligations  primarily  represent  commitments  for  materials  used  in  our  manufacturing  processes,  as  well  as 
commitments  for  warehouse  services,  seed  and  out-sourced  information  services  which  comprise  the  unconditional  purchase 
obligations disclosed in “NOTE 17.  COMMITMENTS” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual 
Report on Form 10-K.

Other obligations include actuarially determined retiree benefit payments and pension funding to comply with local funding 
requirements.  Pension funding requirements beyond fiscal 2013 are based on preliminary estimates using actuarial assumptions 
determined as of September 30, 2013.  The above table excludes liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits and insurance accruals 
as the Company is unable to estimate the timing of payments for these items.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

At September 30, 2013, the Company had letters of credit in the aggregate face amount of $23.3 million outstanding.  Further, 
the Company has residual value guarantees on Scotts LawnService® vehicles and the corporate aircraft as disclosed in “NOTE 
16. OPERATING LEASES” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

35

Regulatory Matters

We are subject to local, state, federal and foreign environmental protection laws and regulations with respect to our business 
operations and believe we are operating in substantial compliance with, or taking actions aimed at ensuring compliance with, such 
laws and regulations.  We are involved in several legal actions with various governmental agencies related to environmental 
matters, including those described in “ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and “NOTE 18. 
CONTINGENCIES” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  While it 
is difficult to quantify the potential financial impact of actions involving these environmental matters, particularly remediation 
costs at waste disposal sites and future capital expenditures for environmental control equipment, in the opinion of management, 
the ultimate liability arising from such environmental matters, taking into account established reserves, should not have a material 
effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.  However, there can be no assurance that the resolution of 
these matters will not materially affect our future quarterly or annual results of operations, financial condition or cash flows. 
Additional information on environmental matters affecting us is provided in “ITEM 1.  BUSINESS — Regulatory Considerations” 
and “ITEM 3.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our  discussion  and  analysis  of  financial  condition  and  results  of  operations  is  based  upon  our  consolidated  financial 
statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP.  Certain accounting policies are particularly significant, including 
those related to revenue recognition, goodwill and intangibles, certain associate benefits and income taxes.  We believe these 
accounting policies, and others set forth in “NOTE 1.  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES” of the Notes 
to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, should be reviewed as they are integral to 
understanding our results of operations and financial position.  Our critical accounting policies are reviewed periodically with the 
Audit and Finance Committee of the Board of Directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro.

The preparation of financial statements requires management to use judgment and make estimates that affect the reported 
amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities.  On an ongoing 
basis,  we  evaluate  our  estimates,  including  those  related  to  customer  programs  and  incentives,  product  returns,  bad  debts, 
inventories,  intangible  assets,  income  taxes,  restructuring,  environmental  matters,  contingencies  and  litigation.   We  base  our 
estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. 
Although actual results historically have not deviated significantly from those determined using our estimates, our results of 
operations or financial condition could differ, perhaps materially, from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Revenue Recognition and Promotional Allowances

Most of our revenue is derived from the sale of inventory, and we recognize revenue when title and risk of loss transfer, 
generally when products are received by the customer.  Provisions for payment discounts, product returns and allowances are 
recorded  as  a  reduction  of  sales  at  the  time  revenue  is  recognized  based  on  historical  trends  and  adjusted  periodically  as 
circumstances warrant.  Similarly, reserves for uncollectible receivables due from customers are established based on management’s 
judgment  as  to  the  ultimate  collectability  of  these  balances.   We  offer  sales  incentives  through  various  programs,  consisting 
principally of volume rebates, cooperative advertising, consumer coupons and other trade programs.  The cost of these programs 
is recorded as a reduction of sales.  The recognition of revenues, receivables and trade programs requires the use of estimates. 
While we believe these estimates to be reasonable based on the then current facts and circumstances, there can be no assurance 
that actual amounts realized will not differ materially from estimated amounts recorded.

Income Taxes

Our annual effective tax rate is established based on our pre-tax income (loss), statutory tax rates and the tax impacts of 
items treated differently for tax purposes than for financial reporting purposes.  We record income tax liabilities utilizing known 
obligations and estimates of potential obligations.  A deferred tax asset or liability is recognized whenever there are future tax 
effects from existing temporary differences and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards.  Valuation allowances are used to 
reduce deferred tax assets to the balances that are more likely than not to be realized.  We must make estimates and judgments on 
future taxable income, considering feasible tax planning strategies and taking into account existing facts and circumstances, to 
determine the proper valuation allowances.  When we determine that deferred tax assets could be realized in greater or lesser 
amounts  than  recorded,  the  asset  balance  and  consolidated  statement  of  operations  reflect  the  change  in  the  period  such 
determination is made.  Due to changes in facts and circumstances and the estimates and judgments that are involved in determining 
the  proper  valuation  allowances,  differences  between  actual  future  events  and  prior  estimates  and  judgments  could  result  in 
adjustments to these valuation allowances.  We use an estimate of our annual effective tax rate at each interim period based on the 
facts and circumstances available at that time, while the actual effective tax rate is calculated at year-end.

36

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, principally determined by the first-in, first-out method of accounting. 
Inventories include the cost of raw materials, labor, manufacturing overhead and freight and in-bound handling costs incurred to 
pre-position goods in our warehouse network.  Adjustments to net realizable value for excess and obsolete inventory are based on 
a  variety  of  factors,  including  product  changes  and  improvements,  changes  in  active  ingredient  availability  and  regulatory 
acceptance, new product introductions and estimated future demand.  The adequacy of our adjustments could be materially affected 
by changes in the demand for our products or regulatory actions.

Long-lived Assets, including Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost.  Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is provided on the straight-
line method and is based on the estimated useful economic lives of the assets.  Intangible assets with finite lives, and therefore 
subject to amortization, include technology (e.g., patents), customer relationships and certain tradenames.  These intangible assets 
are being amortized over their estimated useful economic lives typically ranging from 3 to 25 years.  We review long-lived assets 
whenever circumstances change such that the recorded value of an asset may not be recoverable and therefore impaired.

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets

We have significant investments in intangible assets and goodwill.  Our annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset 
testing is performed as of the first day of our fiscal fourth quarter or more frequently if circumstances indicate potential impairment. 
In  our  evaluation  of  goodwill  and  indefinite-lived  intangible  assets  impairment,  we  perform  either  an  initial  qualitative  or 
quantitative evaluation for each of our reporting units and indefinite-lived intangible assets.  Factors considered in the qualitative 
test include operating results as well as new events and circumstances impacting the operations or cash flows of the reporting unit 
and indefinite-lived intangible assets.  For the quantitative test, the review for impairment of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible 
assets is primarily based on our estimates of discounted future cash flows, which are based upon annual budgets and longer-range 
strategic plans.  These budgets and plans are used for internal purposes and are also the basis for communication with outside 
parties about future business trends.  While we believe the assumptions we use to estimate future cash flows are reasonable, there 
can be no assurance that the expected future cash flows will be realized.  As a result, impairment charges that possibly would have 
been recognized in earlier periods may not be recognized until later periods if actual results deviate unfavorably from earlier 
estimates.  An asset’s value is deemed impaired if the discounted cash flows or earnings projections generated do not substantiate 
the carrying value of the asset.  The estimation of such amounts requires management to exercise judgment with respect to revenue 
and expense growth rates, changes in working capital, future capital expenditure requirements and selection of an appropriate 
discount rate, as applicable.  The use of different assumptions would increase or decrease discounted future operating cash flows 
or earnings projections and could, therefore, change impairment determinations.

Fair value estimates employed in our annual impairment review of indefinite-lived tradenames and goodwill were determined 
using discounted cash flow models involving several assumptions.  Changes in our assumptions could materially impact our fair 
value estimates.  Assumptions critical to our fair value estimates were: (i) discount rates used in determining the fair value of the 
reporting units and tradenames; (ii) royalty rates used in our tradename valuations; (iii) projected revenue and operating profit 
growth rates used in the reporting unit and tradename models; and (iv) projected long-term growth rates used in the derivation of 
terminal year values.  These and other assumptions are impacted by economic conditions and expectations of management and 
may change in the future based on period specific facts and circumstances.

At September 30, 2013, goodwill totaled $315.1 million, with $183.1 million and $132.0 million of goodwill for Global 
Consumer and Scotts LawnService® segments, respectively.  No goodwill impairment was recognized as a result of the annual 
evaluation performed as of June 30, 2013.  The estimated fair value of each reporting unit was substantially in excess of its carrying 
value as of the annual test date.  If we were to alter our impairment testing by increasing the discount rate in the discounted cash 
flow analysis by 100 basis points, there still would not be any impairment indicated for any of these reporting units.  At September 
30, 2013, indefinite-lived intangible assets comprised of tradenames totaled $222.3 million.  With the exception of the Ortho® 
tradename, each of these tradenames had an estimated fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test 
date.   As  a  result  of  the  Company's  annual  impairment  review  performed  in  the  fourth  quarter  of  fiscal  2013,  the  Company 
recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6 million within the Global Consumer segment 
related to the Ortho® brand and certain sub-brands of Ortho®.  The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the 
historical performance and future growth of the Ortho® business.  If we were to increase the discount rate in the Ortho® brand fair 
value calculation by 100 basis points, the resulting non-recurring fair value adjustment would have increased by approximately 
$14.7 million. 

37

Associate Benefits

We sponsor various post-employment benefit plans, including pension plans, both defined contribution plans and defined 
benefit plans, and other post-employment benefit (“OPEB”) plans, consisting primarily of health care for retirees.  For accounting 
purposes, the defined benefit pension and OPEB plans are dependent on a variety of assumptions to estimate the projected and 
accumulated benefit obligations and annual expense determined by actuarial valuations.  These assumptions include the following: 
discount rate; expected salary increases; certain employee-related factors, such as turnover, retirement age and mortality; expected 
return on plan assets; and health care cost trend rates.

Assumptions are reviewed annually for appropriateness and updated as necessary.  We base the discount rate assumption 
on investment yields available at fiscal year-end on high-quality corporate bonds that could be purchased to effectively settle the 
pension liabilities.  The salary growth assumption reflects our long-term actual experience, the near-term outlook and assumed 
inflation.  The expected return on plan assets assumption reflects asset allocation, investment strategy and the views of investment 
managers regarding the market.  Retirement and mortality rates are based primarily on actual and expected plan experience.  The 
effects of actual results that differ from our assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods.

Changes in the discount rate and investment returns can have a significant effect on the funded status of our pension plans 
and shareholders’ equity.  We cannot predict discount rates or investment returns with certainty and, therefore, cannot determine 
whether adjustments to our shareholders’ equity for pension-related activity in subsequent years will be significant.  We also cannot 
predict  future  investment  returns,  and  therefore  cannot  determine  whether  future  pension  plan  funding  requirements  could 
materially affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.  A 100 basis point change in the discount rate would 
have an immaterial effect on fiscal 2013 pension expense. A 100 basis point change in the discount rate would have a $41.7 million 
change in our projected benefit obligation as of September 30, 2013.

Insurance and Self-Insurance

We maintain insurance for certain risks, including workers’ compensation, general liability and vehicle liability, and are 
self-insured for employee-related health care benefits up to a specified level for individual claims.  We establish reserves for losses 
based on our claims experience and industry actuarial estimates of the ultimate loss amount inherent in the claims, including losses 
for claims incurred but not reported.  Our estimate of self-insured liabilities is subject to change as new events or circumstances 
develop which might materially impact the ultimate cost to settle these losses.

Derivative Instruments

In the normal course of business, we are exposed to fluctuations in interest rates, the value of foreign currencies and the cost 
of commodities.  A variety of financial instruments, including forward and swap contracts, are used to manage these exposures. 
Our objective in managing these exposures is to better control these elements of cost and mitigate the earnings and cash flow 
volatility associated with changes in the applicable rates and prices.  We have established policies and procedures that encompass 
risk-management philosophy and objectives, guidelines for derivative-instrument usage, counterparty credit approval, and the 
monitoring and reporting of derivative activity.  We do not enter into derivative instruments for the purpose of speculation.

Contingencies

As described more fully in “NOTE 18.  CONTINGENCIES” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included 
in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, we are involved in environmental and legal matters which have a high degree of uncertainty 
associated with them.  We continually assess the likely outcome of these matters and the adequacy of reserves, if any, provided 
for their resolution.  There can be no assurance that the ultimate outcomes of these matters will not differ materially from our 
current assessment of them, nor that all matters that may currently be brought against us are known by us at this time.

Other Significant Accounting Policies

Other significant accounting policies, primarily those with lower levels of uncertainty than those discussed above, are also 
critical to understanding the consolidated financial statements.  The Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this 
Annual  Report  on  Form 10-K  contain  additional  information  related  to  our  accounting  policies,  including  recent  accounting 
pronouncements, and should be read in conjunction with this discussion. 

ITEM 7A.  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

As part of our ongoing business, we are exposed to certain market risks, including fluctuations in interest rates, foreign 
currency exchange rates and commodity prices.  Financial derivative and other instruments are used to manage these risks.  These 
instruments are not used for speculative purposes.

38

Interest Rate Risk

We had variable rate debt instruments outstanding at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012 that are impacted by 
changes in interest rates.  As a means of managing our interest rate risk on these debt instruments, we entered into interest rate 
swap agreements with major financial institutions to effectively fix the LIBOR index on certain variable-rate debt obligations.  

At September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, we had outstanding interest rate swap agreements with a total U.S. dollar 
equivalent notional value of $1,100.0 million and $700.0 million, respectively.  The weighted average fixed rate of swap agreements 
outstanding at September 30, 2013 was 2.7%.

The following table summarizes information about our derivative financial instruments and debt instruments that are sensitive 
to changes in interest rates as of September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.  For debt instruments, the table presents principal 
cash flows and related weighted-average interest rates by expected maturity dates.  For interest rate swap agreements, the table 
presents  expected  cash  flows  based  on  notional  amounts  and  weighted-average  interest  rates  by  contractual  maturity  dates. 
Weighted-average variable rates are based on rates in effect at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.  A change in our 
variable interest rate of 100 basis points for a full twelve-month period would have a $2.5 million impact on interest expense 
assuming approximately $250 million of our average fiscal 2013 variable-rate debt had not been hedged via an interest rate swap 
agreement.  The information is presented in U.S. dollars (in millions):

2013
Long-term debt:

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

After

Total

Expected Maturity Date

Fixed rate debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Average rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Variable rate debt . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Average rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ — $ — $ — $ — $ 200.0

$ 200.0

$ 400.0

—
$ 85.3

—

—
$ — $ 73.0

—

7.3%

6.6%

6.9%

$ — $ — $ — $ 158.3

1.0%

—

2.4%

—

—

—

1.7%

Fair
Value

$ 523.0
—
$ 158.3
—

Interest rate derivatives:

Interest rate swaps . . . . . . . . . . . .
Average rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2012
Long-term debt:

Fixed rate debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Average rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Variable rate debt . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Average rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest rate derivatives:

Interest rate swaps . . . . . . . . . . . .
Average rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ — $ — $ (17.8)
3.0%

—

—

$ (2.6)
3.0%

$

3.7
2.1%

$ — $ (16.7)
2.7%

—

$ (16.7)
—

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

After

Total

Expected Maturity Date

$ — $ — $ — $ — $ — $ 400.0

$ 400.0

—

—
$ — $ — $ — $ 377.1

—

—

—

6.9%

6.9%

$ — $ — $ 377.1

—

—

—

2.7%

—

—

2.7%

Fair
Value

$ 429.5
—
$ 377.1
—

$ — $ — $ — $ (24.9)
3.0%

—

—

—

$ (3.9)
3.0%

$ — $ (28.8)
3.0%

—

$ (28.8)
—

Excluded from the information provided above are $12.2 million and $5.5 million at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 

2012, respectively, of miscellaneous debt instruments.

Other Market Risks

Through fiscal 2013, we had transactions that were denominated in currencies other than the currency of the country of 
origin.  We use foreign currency swap contracts to manage the exchange rate risk associated with intercompany loans with foreign 
subsidiaries that are denominated in local currencies.  At September 30, 2013, the notional amount of outstanding foreign currency 
swap contracts was $80.4 million with a negative fair value of $2.1 million.  At September 30, 2012, the notional amount of 
outstanding foreign currency swap contracts was $61.8 million with a negative fair value of $1.0 million.

We  are  subject  to  market  risk  from  fluctuating  prices  of  certain  raw  materials,  including  urea,  resins,  diesel,  gasoline, 
sphagnum peat, grass seed and wild bird food grains.  Our objectives surrounding the procurement of these materials are to ensure 
continuous supply and to control costs.  We seek to achieve these objectives through negotiation of contracts with favorable terms 

39

directly with vendors.  In addition, we entered into arrangements to partially mitigate the effect of fluctuating direct and indirect 
fuel costs on our Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService® businesses and hedged a portion of our fuel and urea needs for fiscal 
2013 and fiscal 2012.  We had outstanding derivative contracts for approximately 7,098,000 gallons of fuel with a negative fair 
value of $0.3 million at September 30, 2013.  We had outstanding derivative contracts for approximately 11,984,000 gallons of 
fuel with a fair value of $1.2 million at September 30, 2012.  We also had outstanding derivative contracts for 49,500 and 34,500 
aggregate tons of urea at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.  The outstanding derivative contracts for 
49,500 aggregate tons at September 30, 2013 had a negative fair value of $2.0 million, while the fair value of the outstanding 
derivative contracts for 34,500 aggregate tons at September 30, 2012 was $0.8 million.

ITEM 8. 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

The financial statements and other information required by this Item are contained in the Consolidated Financial Statements, 
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements and Schedules Supporting the Consolidated Financial Statements listed in the “Index 
to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules” on page 46 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 9. 

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL 
DISCLOSURE

None.

ITEM 9A.  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

With the participation of the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 
(the  “Registrant”),  the  Registrant’s  management  has  evaluated  the  effectiveness  of  the  Registrant’s  disclosure  controls  and 
procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)), as of the end of the 
fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Based upon that evaluation, the Registrant’s principal executive officer 
and principal financial officer have concluded that the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end 
of the fiscal year covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

The  “Annual  Report  of  Management  on  Internal  Control  Over  Financial  Reporting”  required  by  Item 308(a)  of  SEC 

Regulation S-K is included on page 47 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Attestation Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The “Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” required by Item 308(b) of SEC Regulation S-K is included 

on page 48 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

No changes in the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange 
Act) occurred during the Registrant’s fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2013, that have materially affected, or are reasonably 
likely to materially affect, the Registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

ITEM 9B.  OTHER INFORMATION

None.

40

ITEM 10.  DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

PART III

Directors, Executive Officers and Persons Nominated or Chosen to Become Directors or Executive Officers

The  information  required  by  Item 401  of  SEC  Regulation S-K  concerning  the  directors  of  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  and  the 
nominees  for  election  or  re-election  as  directors  of  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  at  the Annual  Meeting  of  Shareholders  to  be  held  on 
January 30, 2014 (the “2014 Annual Meeting”) is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which will be included 
under the caption “PROPOSAL NUMBER 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s definitive Proxy Statement 
relating to the 2014 Annual Meeting (“Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement”), which will be filed pursuant to SEC 
Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s fiscal year ended September 30, 2013.

The information required by Item 401 of SEC Regulation S-K concerning the executive officers of Scotts Miracle-Gro is 
incorporated  herein  by  reference  from  the  disclosure  included  under  the  caption  “SUPPLEMENTAL  ITEM.    EXECUTIVE 
OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT” in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

The information required by Item 405 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which 
will  be  included  under  the  caption  “SECTION 16(a)  BENEFICIAL  OWNERSHIP  REPORTING  COMPLIANCE”  in  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

Procedures for Recommending Director Nominees

Information concerning the procedures by which shareholders of Scotts Miracle-Gro may recommend nominees to Scotts 
Miracle-Gro’s Board of Directors is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which will be included under the captions 
“CORPORATE GOVERNANCE — Nominations of Directors” and “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD — 
Committees of the Board — Governance and Nominating Committee” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.  These 
procedures have not materially changed from those described in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s definitive Proxy Statement for the 2013 
Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on January 17, 2013.

Audit and Finance Committee

The information required by Items 407(d)(4) and 407(d)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from 
the disclosure which will be included under the caption “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD — Committees 
of the Board — Audit and Finance Committee” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

Committee Charters; Code of Business Conduct and Ethics; Corporate Governance Guidelines

The  Board  of  Directors  of  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  has  adopted  charters  for  each  of  the Audit  and  Finance  Committee,  the 
Governance  and  Nominating  Committee,  the  Compensation  and  Organization  Committee,  the  Innovation and  Technology 
Committee and the Strategy and Business Development Committee, as well as Corporate Governance Guidelines, as contemplated 
by the applicable sections of the New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual.

In accordance with the requirements of Section 303A.10 of the New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual and 
Item 406 of SEC Regulation S-K, the Board of Directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and 
Ethics covering the members of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Board of Directors and associates (employees) of Scotts Miracle-Gro and 
its  subsidiaries,  including,  without  limitation,  Scotts  Miracle-Gro’s  principal  executive  officer,  principal  financial  officer and 
principal accounting officer.  Scotts Miracle-Gro intends to disclose the following events, if they occur, on its Internet website 
located at http://investor.scotts.com within four business days following their occurrence: (A) the date and nature of any amendment 
to a provision of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that (i) applies to Scotts Miracle-Gro’s principal 
executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, 
(ii) relates to any element of the code of ethics definition enumerated in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K, and (iii) is not a 
technical, administrative or other non-substantive amendment; and (B) a description of any waiver (including the nature of the 
waiver, the name of the person to whom the waiver was granted and the date of the waiver), including an implicit waiver, from a 
provision of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics granted to Scotts Miracle-Gro’s principal executive officer, principal financial 
officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, that relates to one or more of the elements 
of the code of ethics definition enumerated in Item 406(b) of SEC Regulation S-K.

The  text  of  Scotts  Miracle-Gro’s  Code  of  Business  Conduct  and  Ethics,  Scotts  Miracle-Gro’s  Corporate  Governance 
Guidelines, the Audit and Finance Committee charter, the Governance and Nominating Committee charter, the Compensation and 

41

Organization Committee charter, the Innovation and Technology Committee charter and the Strategy and Business Development 
Committee charter are posted under the “Corporate Governance” link on Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Internet website located at http://
investor.scotts.com.  Interested persons and shareholders of Scotts Miracle-Gro may also obtain copies of each of these documents 
without charge by writing to The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, Attention: Corporate Secretary, 14111 Scottslawn Road, Marysville, 
Ohio 43041.  In addition, a copy of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, as revised effective January 18, 2012, is incorporated 
by reference in Exhibit 14 to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

ITEM 11.  EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by Item 402 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which 
the  captions  “EXECUTIVE  COMPENSATION”  and  “NON-EMPLOYEE  DIRECTOR 

will  be 
COMPENSATION” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

included  under 

The information required by Item 407(e)(4) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure 
which will be included under the caption “MEETINGS AND COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD — Compensation and Organization 
Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

The information required by Item 407(e)(5) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure 
which will be included under the caption “COMPENSATION COMMITTEE REPORT” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy 
Statement.

ITEM 12.  SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED 

STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

Ownership of Common Shares of Scotts Miracle-Gro

The information required by Item 403 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure which 
will be included under the caption “SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT” 
in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

Equity Compensation Plan Information

The information required by Item 201(d) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosure 
which  will  be  included  under  the  caption  “EQUITY  COMPENSATION  PLAN  INFORMATION”  in  Scotts  Miracle-Gro’s 
Definitive Proxy Statement.

ITEM 13.  CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions

The information required by Item 404 of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which 
will be included under the caption “CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s 
Definitive Proxy Statement.

Director Independence

The information required by Item 407(a) of SEC Regulation S-K is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures 
which will be included under the captions “CORPORATE GOVERNANCE — Director Independence” and “MEETINGS AND 
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

ITEM 14.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

The information required by this Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures which will be included 
under the captions “AUDIT AND FINANCE COMMITTEE MATTERS — Fees of the Independent Registered Public Accounting 
Firm” and “AUDIT AND FINANCE COMMITTEE MATTERS — Pre-Approval of Services Performed by the Independent 
Registered Public Accounting Firm” in Scotts Miracle-Gro’s Definitive Proxy Statement.

42

PART IV

ITEM 15.  EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a) LIST OF DOCUMENTS FILED AS PART OF THIS REPORT

1 and 2.  Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules:

The  response  to  this  portion  of  Item 15  is  submitted  as  a  separate  section  of  this Annual  Report  on  Form 10-K. 
Reference is made to the “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules” on page 46 of this 
Annual Report on Form 10-K.

(b) EXHIBITS

The exhibits listed on the “Index to Exhibits” beginning on page 110 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are filed or 

furnished with this Annual Report on Form 10-K or incorporated herein by reference as noted in the “Index to Exhibits.”

(c) FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

The financial statement schedule filed with this Annual Report on Form 10-K is submitted in a separate section hereof.  For 
a description of such financial statement schedules, see “Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement 
Schedules” on page 46 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

43

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused 

this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

SIGNATURES

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

By:

/s/    JAMES HAGEDORN 
James Hagedorn, Chief Executive Officer and
Chairman of the Board

Dated: November 20, 2013 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following 

persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature

Title

Date

/s/    ALAN H. BARRY*        

  Director

November 20, 2013

Alan H. Barry

/s/   LAWRENCE A.
HILSHEIMER

  Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President

November 20, 2013

Lawrence A. Hilsheimer

(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)

/s/    JAMES HAGEDORN      

  Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board and Director

November 20, 2013

James Hagedorn

(Principal Executive Officer)

/s/    ADAM HANFT*        

  Director

Adam Hanft

/s/    STEPHEN L. JOHNSON*

  Director

Stephen L. Johnson

/s/   THOMAS N. KELLY JR.*

  Director

Thomas N. Kelly Jr.

/s/   KATHERINE HAGEDORN
LITTLEFIELD*
Katherine Hagedorn Littlefield

Director

November 20, 2013

November 20, 2013

November 20, 2013

November 20, 2013

44

Signature

Title

Date

/s/   NANCY G. MISTRETTA*
Nancy G. Mistretta

  Director

/s/   MICHAEL E. PORTER*

Director

Michael E. Porter

/s/   STEPHANIE M. SHERN*

  Director

Stephanie M. Shern

/s/   JOHN R. VINES*

  Director

John R. Vines

November 20, 2013

November 20, 2013

November 20, 2013

November 20, 2013

*

The undersigned, by signing his name hereto, does hereby sign this Report on behalf of each of the directors of the Registrant
identified above pursuant to Powers of Attorney executed by the directors identified above, which Powers of Attorney are
filed with this Report as exhibits.

By:

/s/    LAWRENCE A. HILSHEIMER  
Lawrence A. Hilsheimer, Attorney-in-Fact

45

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

Consolidated Financial Statements of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and Subsidiaries:

Annual Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm(cid:3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011(cid:3). . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 
2011(cid:3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011. . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2013 and 2012(cid:3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011(cid:3). .
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements(cid:3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Page

47

48
50

51

52

53

54

55

Schedules Supporting the Consolidated Financial Statements:

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011(cid:3). .(cid:3)

109

All other financial statement schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the Securities 
and Exchange Commission are omitted because they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information has been 
presented in the Consolidated Financial Statements or Notes thereto.

46

ANNUAL REPORT OF MANAGEMENT ON INTERNAL
CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting to provide 
reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of our financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external 
purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  Internal control over 
financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, 
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated 
subsidiaries;  (ii) provide  reasonable  assurance  that  transactions  are  recorded  as  necessary  to  permit  preparation  of  financial 
statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that receipts and 
expenditures of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated subsidiaries are being made only in accordance with 
authorizations of management and directors of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated subsidiaries, as appropriate; 
and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of 
the assets of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and our consolidated subsidiaries that could have a material effect on our consolidated 
financial statements.

Management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, assessed the effectiveness 
of  our  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  as  of  September 30,  2013,  the  end  of  our  fiscal  year.    Management  based  its 
assessment  on  criteria  established  in  Internal  Control  —  Integrated  Framework  issued  by  the  Committee  of  Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  Management’s assessment included evaluation of such elements as the design and 
operating effectiveness of key financial reporting controls, process documentation, accounting policies and our overall control 
environment.  This assessment is supported by testing and monitoring performed under the direction of management.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Also, 
projections of any evaluations of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because 
of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.  Accordingly, even an 
effective  system  of  internal  control  over  financial  reporting  will  provide  only  reasonable  assurance  with  respect  to  financial 
statement preparation.

Based on our assessment, management has concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of 
September 30, 2013, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial 
statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of 
America.  We reviewed the results of management’s assessment with the Audit and Finance Committee of the Board of Directors 
of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company.

Our independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, independently audited our internal control over 

financial reporting as of September 30, 2013 and has issued their attestation report which appears herein.

/s/    JAMES HAGEDORN    

/s/    LAWRENCE A. HILSHEIMER    

James Hagedorn
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board

Lawrence A. Hilsheimer
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Dated: November 20, 2013

Dated: November 20, 2013

47

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Marysville, Ohio

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and subsidiaries (the 
"Company") as of September 30, 2013 and 2012, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, 
shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2013.  Our audits also included 
the financial statement schedules listed in the Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Financial Statement Schedules. 
These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management. 
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules based on 
our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 
statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates 
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the 
Company as of September 30, 2013 and 2012, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the 
period ended September 30, 2013, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. 
Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements 
taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2013, based on the criteria established in Internal 
Control — Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission 
and  our  report  dated  November 20,  2013  expressed  an  unqualified  opinion  on  the  Company’s  internal  control  over  financial 
reporting.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Columbus, Ohio
November 20, 2013

48

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Marysville, Ohio

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company and subsidiaries (the 
"Company") as of September 30, 2013, based on criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued 
by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  The Company’s management is responsible for 
maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over 
financial reporting, which is included in the accompanying Annual Report of Management on Internal Control Over Financial 
Reporting.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our 
audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal 
control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal 
control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating 
effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in 
the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s 
principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board 
of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and 
the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the 
United States of America ("generally accepted accounting principles").  A company’s internal control over financial reporting 
includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly 
reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded 
as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that 
receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of 
the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or 
disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or 
improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a 
timely basis.  Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future 
periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of 
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of 
September 30, 2013, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (1992) issued by the Committee 
of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), 
the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules as of and for the year ended September 30, 2013 of the 
Company and our report dated November 20, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements 
and financial statement schedules.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Columbus, Ohio
November 20, 2013 

49

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In millions, except per share data)

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales—impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales—product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating expenses: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selling, general and administrative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Costs related to refinancing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from continuing operations before income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Basic income per common share: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic net income per common share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Diluted income per common share: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted net income per common share . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

$

2,816.5
1,831.9
2.2
—
982.4

$

2,826.1
1,864.4
—
0.4
961.3

2,799.7
1,769.0
18.3
3.2
1,009.2

661.1
18.1
—
(10.0)
313.2
—
59.2
254.0
92.8
161.2
(0.1)
161.1

2.61
—
2.61

2.58
(0.01)
2.57

$

$

$

$

$

705.7
7.1
7.8
(2.9)
243.6
—
61.8
181.8
68.6
113.2
(6.7)
106.5

1.86
(0.11)
1.75

1.82
(0.11)
1.71

$

$

$

$

$

686.3
37.6
11.4
(0.9)
274.8
1.2
51.0
222.6
82.7
139.9
28.0
167.9

2.16
0.44
2.60

2.11
0.43
2.54

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

50

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(In millions)

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss):

Net foreign currency translation adjustment

Net unrealized losses on derivative instruments, net of tax of $2.1, $6.2
and $3.0 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively

Reclassification of net unrealized losses on derivatives to net income, net
of tax of $5.4, $5.6 and $2.3 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively

Net unrealized gains (losses) in pension and other post retirement
benefits, net of tax of $2.4, $0.4 and $4.7 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011,
respectively

Reclassification of net pension and post-retirement benefit loss to net
income, net of tax of $2.3, $2.2 and $2.2 for fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011,
respectively

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

Comprehensive income

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

$

161.1

$

106.5

$

167.9

(5.2)

(3.3)

8.4

5.8

3.8

9.5

$

170.6

$

2.3

(9.3)

8.4

(10.1)

(13.0)

10.0

(14.3)

8.3

3.6
(9.3)
97.2

$

3.9
(0.9)
167.0

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

51

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In millions)

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:. . .
Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Costs related to refinancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Share-based compensation expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Depreciation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deferred taxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss (gain) on sale of long-lived assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on sale of business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity in net loss of unconsolidated affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquired businesses: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid and other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restructuring reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other non-current items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash provided by operating activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from sale of business, net of transaction costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contingent consideration and related payments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investment in unconsolidated affiliates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Repayments under revolving and bank lines of credit and term loans. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proceeds from issuance of Senior Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Financing and issuance fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchase of common shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payments on sellers notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash received from exercise of stock options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net cash used in financing activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

Year Ended September 30,
2012

2011

2013

161.1

$

106.5

$

167.9

16.2
—
10.3
54.9
11.2
24.2
(2.1)
—
0.4

17.9
89.0
0.3
(5.2)
5.4
(8.1)
(32.6)
(0.9)
342.0

3.6
—
(60.1)
—
(4.5)
(3.2)
(64.2)

5.3
—
12.5
51.5
10.9
24.2
0.1
—
—

(6.9)
(23.1)
17.3
(6.9)
(15.9)
(19.4)
(9.0)
6.3
153.4

0.7
—
(69.4)
—
—
(7.0)
(75.7)

1,474.8
(1,682.1)
—
—
(87.8)
—
(0.8)
2.0
13.3
(280.6)
0.7
(2.1)
131.9
129.8

$

1,684.0
(1,694.6)
—
—
(75.4)
(17.5)
—
6.6
17.6
(79.3)
2.6
1.0
130.9
131.9

$

31.8
1.2
16.0
50.3
11.4
(11.3)
0.8
(93.0)
—

10.4
(37.8)
(7.6)
6.1
(76.5)
29.1
13.0
10.3
122.1

0.2
253.6
(72.7)
(20.0)
—
(7.6)
153.5

1,610.1
(1,632.1)
200.0
(18.9)
(67.9)
(358.7)
(0.3)
5.6
31.5
(230.7)
(2.1)
42.8
88.1
130.9

Interest paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income taxes paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(56.6) $
(44.0)

(48.6) $
(79.6)

(44.5)
(115.1)

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

52

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In millions, except stated value per share)

ASSETS

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts receivable, less allowances of $9.5 in 2013 and $10.5 in 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable pledged. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Prepaid and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Property, plant and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible assets, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Current portion of debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts payable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long-term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 16, 17 and 18)
Shareholders’ equity:

September 30,

2013

2012

$

$

$

129.8
206.6
106.7
324.9
113.0
881.0
422.3
315.1
284.4
34.4
1,937.2

92.4
137.7
279.7
509.8
478.1
238.8
1,226.7

131.9
330.9
—
414.9
122.3
1,000.0
427.4
309.4
307.1
30.5
2,074.4

1.5
152.3
279.8
433.6
781.1
257.8
1,472.5

Common shares and capital in excess of $.01 stated value per share; shares outstanding
of 62.0 in 2013 and 61.3 in 2012. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Retained earnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury shares, at cost; 6.1 shares in 2013 and 6.8 shares in 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accumulated other comprehensive loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

397.5
703.4
(312.6)
(77.8)
710.5
1,937.2

$

408.6
630.2
(349.6)
(87.3)
601.9
2,074.4

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

53

Balance at September 30, 2010. . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive loss . . . . . . . . . .
Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . .
Dividends declared ($1.05 per share) .
Treasury share purchases . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury share issuances . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at September 30, 2011. . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive loss . . . . . . . . . .
Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . .
Dividends declared ($1.225 per share)
Treasury share purchases . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury share issuances . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at September 30, 2012. . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other comprehensive income . . . . . . .
Share-based compensation . . . . . . . . .
Dividends declared ($1.4125 per
share) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treasury share issuances . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at September 30, 2013. . . . . .

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
(In millions, except per share data)

Common Shares

Shares
68.1

Amount
0.3
$

Capital in
Excess of
Stated Value
433.7
$

Retained
Earnings
$ 499.6
167.9

Treasury Shares

Shares
1.8

Amount
$

(92.0) $

Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (loss)

Total

(0.9)

(78.0)

(77.1) $ 764.5
167.9
(0.9)
16.0
(68.3)
(358.7)
37.9
1.4
559.8
106.5
(9.3)
12.5
(75.4)
(17.5)
25.2
0.1
601.9
161.1
9.5
10.3

(87.3)

(9.3)

9.5

(87.8)
15.6
(0.1)
(77.8) $ 710.5

68.1

0.3

68.1

0.3

6.9
(1.2)

(358.7)
62.2

7.5

(388.5)

0.4
(1.1)

(17.5)
56.4

6.8

(349.6)

16.0

(24.3)
1.4
426.8

12.5

(31.2)
0.2
408.3

10.3

(68.3)

599.2
106.5

(75.4)

(0.1)
630.2
161.1

(87.8)

(21.4)

(0.7)

37.0

68.1

$

0.3

$

397.2

(0.1)
$ 703.4

6.1

$ (312.6) $

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

54

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1.  SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (“Scotts Miracle-Gro” and, together with its subsidiaries, the “Company”) are engaged 
in  the  manufacturing,  marketing  and  sale  of  branded  products  for  consumer  lawn  and  garden  care.   The  Company’s  primary 
customers  include  home  centers,  mass  merchandisers,  warehouse  clubs,  large  hardware  chains,  independent  hardware  stores, 
nurseries, garden centers and food and drug stores.  The Company’s products are sold primarily in North America and the European 
Union.  The Company also operates the Scotts LawnService® business, which provides residential and commercial lawn care, tree 
and shrub care and limited pest control services in the United States.

On February 28, 2011, the Company completed the sale of a significant majority of the assets of its Global Professional 
business (excluding the non-European professional seed business, “Global Pro”) to Israel Chemicals Ltd. (“ICL”).  As a result of 
the then-pending sale, effective in the Company’s first quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company classified Global Pro as discontinued 
operations.  In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, the Company completed the wind down of the Company's professional seed 
business (“Pro Seed”).  As a result, effective in its fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company classified Pro Seed as a discontinued 
operation. 

In fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011 the Company incurred product registration and recall costs of $8.2 million and $14.6 million, 
respectively.  Fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011 costs include reserves that were established in connection with the previously disclosed 
U.S. EPA and U.S. DOJ investigations into pesticide product registration issues, which, as previously disclosed in the Company's 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, were settled in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012. 
 The Company does not expect to incur any additional costs related to these investigations.

Due to the nature of the consumer lawn and garden business, the majority of sales to customers occur in the Company’s 
second and third fiscal quarters.  On a combined basis, net sales for the second and third quarters of the last three fiscal years 
represented in excess of 75% of annual net sales.

Organization and Basis of Presentation

The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted 
in the United States of America (“GAAP”).  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Scotts Miracle-Gro and 
all wholly-owned and majority-owned subsidiaries.  All intercompany transactions and accounts are eliminated in consolidation. 
The Company’s consolidation criteria are based on majority ownership (as evidenced by a majority voting interest in the entity) 
and an objective evaluation and determination of effective management control.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions 
that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes.  Although these estimates are 
based on management’s best knowledge of current events and actions the Company may undertake in the future, actual results 
ultimately may differ from the estimates.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue is recognized when title and risk of loss transfer, which generally occurs when products or services are received 
by the customer.  Provisions for estimated returns and allowances are recorded at the time revenue is recognized based on historical 
rates and are periodically adjusted for known changes in return levels.  Outbound shipping and handling costs are included in cost 
of sales.

Under the terms of the Amended and Restated Exclusive Agency and Marketing Agreement (the “Marketing Agreement”) 
between  the  Company  and  Monsanto  Company  (“Monsanto”),  the  Company,  in  its  role  as  exclusive  agent,  performs  certain 
functions, primarily manufacturing conversion, distribution and logistics, and selling and marketing support on behalf of Monsanto 
in the conduct of the consumer Roundup® business.  The actual costs incurred by the Company on behalf of the consumer Roundup® 
business are recovered from Monsanto through the terms of the Marketing Agreement.  The reimbursement of costs for which the 
Company is considered the primary obligor is included in net sales.

55

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Promotional Allowances

The Company promotes its branded products through, among other things, cooperative advertising programs with retailers. 
Retailers may also be offered in-store promotional allowances and rebates based on sales volumes.  Certain products are promoted 
with direct consumer rebate programs and special purchasing incentives.  Promotion costs (including allowances and rebates) 
incurred during the year are expensed to interim periods in relation to revenues and are recorded as a reduction of net sales.  Accruals 
for expected payouts under these programs are included in the “Other current liabilities” line in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Advertising

Advertising costs incurred during the year by our Global Consumer segment are expensed to interim periods in relation to 
revenues.  All advertising costs, except for external production costs, are expensed within the fiscal year in which such costs are 
incurred.  External production costs for advertising programs are deferred until the period in which the advertising is first aired.

Scotts LawnService® promotes its service offerings primarily through direct mail campaigns.  External costs associated with 
these campaigns that qualify as direct response advertising costs are deferred and recognized as advertising expense in proportion 
to revenues over a period not beyond the end of the subsequent calendar year.  Costs that do not qualify as direct response advertising 
costs are expensed within the fiscal year incurred on a monthly basis in proportion to net sales.  There were no costs deferred at 
September 30, 2013.  The costs deferred at September 30, 2012 were $1.1 million.

Advertising expenses were $142.2 million in fiscal 2013, $168.9 million in fiscal 2012 and $140.7 million in fiscal 2011.

Research and Development

All costs associated with research and development are charged to expense as incurred.  Expenses for fiscal 2013, fiscal 
2012 and fiscal 2011 were $46.7 million, $50.8 million and $50.9 million, respectively, including product registration costs of 
$12.4 million, $14.0 million and $14.6 million, respectively.

Environmental Costs

The Company recognizes environmental liabilities when conditions requiring remediation are probable and the amounts can 
be reasonably estimated.  Expenditures which extend the life of the related property or mitigate or prevent future environmental 
contamination are capitalized.  Environmental liabilities are not discounted or reduced for possible recoveries from insurance 
carriers.

Share-Based Compensation Awards

The fair value of awards is expensed over the requisite service period which is typically the vesting period, generally three 
years, except in cases where employees are eligible for accelerated vesting based on having satisfied retirement requirements 
relating to age and years of service.  Performance-based awards are expensed over the requisite service period based on achievement 
of performance criteria.  The Company uses a binomial model to determine the fair value of its option grants.  The Company 
classifies share-based compensation expense within selling, general and administrative expenses to correspond with the same line 
item as cash compensation paid to employees.

Earnings per Common Share

Basic earnings per common share is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding each 
period.  Diluted earnings per common share is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares and dilutive 
potential common shares (stock options, stock appreciation rights, performance shares, restricted stock and restricted stock unit 
awards) outstanding each period.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid financial instruments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash 
equivalents.  The Company maintains cash deposits in banks which from time to time exceed the amount of deposit insurance 
available.  Management periodically assesses the financial condition of the Company’s banks and believes that the risk of any 
potential credit loss is minimal.

56

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Accounts Receivable and Allowances

Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest.  Allowances for doubtful accounts 
reflect the Company’s best estimate of amounts in its existing accounts receivable that may not be collected due to customer claims 
or customer inability or unwillingness to pay.  The allowance is determined based on a combination of factors, including the 
Company’s risk assessment regarding the credit worthiness of its customers, historical collection experience and length of time 
the receivables are past due.  Account balances are charged off against the allowance when the Company believes it is probable 
the receivable will not be recovered.

Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, principally determined by the first in, first out method of accounting. 
Inventories include the cost of raw materials, labor, manufacturing overhead and freight and in-bound handling costs incurred to 
pre-position goods in the Company’s warehouse network.  The Company makes provisions for obsolete or slow-moving inventories 
as necessary to properly reflect inventory at the lower of cost or market value.  Adjustments to reflect inventories at net realizable 
values were $19.7 million and $21.0 million at September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. 

Long-lived Assets

Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost.  Interest capitalized in property, plant and equipment amounted to $0.8 
million, $0.9 million and $0.1 million during fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.  Expenditures for maintenance 
and repairs are charged to expense as incurred.  When properties are retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost of the asset and the 
related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts with the resulting gain or loss being reflected in income from 
operations.

Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is provided on the straight-line method and is based on the estimated useful 

economic lives of the assets as follows: 

Land improvements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Machinery and equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Furniture and fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10 –25 years
10 –40 years
3 –15 years
6 –10 years
3 – 8 years

Intangible  assets  with  finite  lives,  and  therefore  subject  to  amortization,  include  technology  such  as  patents,  customer 
relationships, non-compete agreements and certain tradenames.  These intangible assets are being amortized over their estimated 
useful economic lives, which typically range from 3 to 25 years.  The Company’s fixed assets and intangible assets subject to 
amortization are required to be tested for recoverability whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that carrying amounts 
may not be recoverable.  If an evaluation of recoverability was required, the estimated undiscounted future cash flows associated 
with the asset would be compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if a write-down is required.  If the undiscounted 
cash flows are less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss is recorded to the extent that the carrying amount exceeds fair 
value and classified as “Impairment, restructuring and other charges” in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The Company had noncash investing activities of $7.3 million, $17.3 million and $8.7 million respectively, representing 

unpaid liabilities incurred during fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011 to acquire property, plant and equipment.

Internal Use Software

The costs of internal use software are expensed or capitalized depending on whether they are incurred in the preliminary 
project  stage,  application  development  stage  or  the  post-implementation/operation  stage.    As  of  September 30,  2013  and 
September 30, 2012, the Company had $17.5 million and $18.6 million, respectively, in unamortized capitalized internal use 
computer software costs.  Amortization of these costs was $7.3 million, $8.0 million and $9.0 million during fiscal 2013, fiscal 
2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.

57

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Goodwill and Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets

Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets are not subject to amortization.  Goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible 
assets are reviewed for impairment by applying a fair-value based test on an annual basis, as of the first day of the Company’s 
fiscal fourth quarter, or more frequently if circumstances indicate impairment may have occurred.  With respect to goodwill, the 
Company performs either a qualitative or quantitative evaluation for each of its reporting units.  Factors considered in the qualitative 
test include reporting unit specific operating results as well as new events and circumstances impacting the operations of the 
reporting units.  For the quantitative test, the Company assesses goodwill for impairment by comparing the carrying value of its 
reporting units to their respective fair values and reviewing the Company’s market value of invested capital.  A reporting unit is 
defined as an operating segment or one level below an operating segment.  The Company has identified six reporting units.  The 
Company determines the fair value of its reporting units under the income-based approach utilizing discounted cash flows and 
incorporates assumptions it believes marketplace participants would utilize.  The Company also uses a comparative market-based 
approach using market multiples and other factors to corroborate the discounted cash flow results used.  

With respect to indefinite-lived intangible assets, the Company performs either a qualitative or quantitative evaluation for 
each of its indefinite-lived intangible assets.  Factors considered in the qualitative test include indefinite-lived intangible asset 
specific operating results as well as new events and circumstances impacting the cash flows of the indefinite-lived intangible assets. 
For the quantitative test, the value of all indefinite-lived tradenames was determined using a royalty savings methodology similar 
to that employed when the associated businesses were acquired but using updated estimates of sales, cash flow and profitability. 
If it is determined that an impairment has occurred, an impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the carrying value 
of the asset exceeds its estimated fair value and classified as “Impairment, restructuring and other charges” in the Consolidated 
Statements of Operations.

Insurance and Self-Insurance

The Company maintains insurance for certain risks, including workers’ compensation, general liability and vehicle liability, 
and is self-insured for employee-related health care benefits up to a specified level for individual claims.  The Company accrues 
for the expected costs associated with these risks by considering historical claims experience, demographic factors, severity factors 
and  other  relevant  information.    Costs  are  recognized  in  the  period  the  claim  is  incurred,  and  accruals  include  an  actuarially 
determined estimate of claims incurred but not yet reported.

Income Taxes

The Company uses the asset and liability method to account for income taxes.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized 
for the anticipated future tax consequences attributable to differences between financial statement amounts and their respective 
tax bases.  Management reviews the Company’s deferred tax assets to determine whether their value can be realized based upon 
available evidence.  A valuation allowance is established when management believes that it is more likely than not that some 
portion of its deferred tax assets will not be realized.  Changes in valuation allowances from period to period are included in the 
Company’s tax provision in the period of change.

The Company establishes a liability for tax return positions in which there is uncertainty as to whether or not the position 
will ultimately be sustained.  Amounts for uncertain tax positions are adjusted in quarters when new information becomes available 
or when positions are effectively settled.  The Company recognizes interest expense and penalties related to these unrecognized 
tax benefits within income tax expense.

U.S. income tax expense and foreign withholding taxes are provided on unremitted foreign earnings that are not indefinitely 
reinvested at the time the earnings are generated.  Where foreign earnings are indefinitely reinvested, no provision for U.S. income 
or foreign withholding taxes is made.  When circumstances change and the Company determines that some or all of the undistributed 
earnings will be remitted in the foreseeable future, the Company accrues an expense in the current period for U.S. income taxes 
and foreign withholding taxes attributable to the anticipated remittance.

Translation of Foreign Currencies

The functional currency for each Scotts Miracle-Gro subsidiary is generally its local currency.  Assets and liabilities of these 
subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rate in effect at each year-end.  Income and expense accounts are translated at the average 
rate of exchange prevailing during the year.  Translation gains and losses arising from the use of differing exchange rates from 
period to period are included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within shareholders’ equity.  Foreign currency 
transaction gains and losses are included in the determination of net income and classified as “Other (income) expense, net” in 
the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

58

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Derivative Instruments

In the normal course of business, the Company is exposed to fluctuations in interest rates, the value of foreign currencies 
and the cost of commodities.  A variety of financial instruments, including forward and swap contracts, are used to manage these 
exposures.  These financial instruments are recognized at fair value on the balance sheet, and all changes in fair value are recognized 
in net income or shareholders’ equity through accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).  The Company’s objective in 
managing these exposures is to better control these elements of cost and mitigate the earnings and cash flow volatility associated 
with changes in the applicable rates and prices.

The  Company  has  established  policies  and  procedures  that  encompass  risk-management  philosophy  and  objectives, 
guidelines for derivative-instrument usage, counterparty credit approval, and the monitoring and reporting of derivative activity. 
The Company does not enter into derivative instruments for the purpose of speculation.

The Company formally designates and documents instruments at inception that qualify for hedge accounting of underlying 
exposures in accordance with GAAP.  The Company formally assesses, both at inception and at least quarterly, whether the financial 
instruments used in hedging transactions are effective at offsetting changes in cash flows of the related underlying exposure. 
Fluctuations in the value of these instruments generally are offset by changes in the cash flows of the underlying exposures being 
hedged.  This offset is driven by the high degree of effectiveness between the exposure being hedged and the hedging instrument. 
GAAP requires all derivative instruments to be recognized as either assets or liabilities at fair value in the Consolidated Balance 
Sheets.  The Company designates commodity hedges as cash flow hedges of forecasted purchases of commodities and interest 
rate swap agreements as cash flow hedges of interest payments on variable rate borrowings.  Any ineffective portion of a change 
in the fair value of a qualifying instrument is immediately recognized in earnings.  The amounts recorded in earnings related to 
ineffectiveness of derivative hedges for the years ended September 30, 2013, September 30, 2012 and September 30, 2011 were 
not significant.

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Comprehensive Income

In June 2011, the FASB issued amended accounting guidance on the presentation of comprehensive income.  The amended 
guidance  requires  that  all  non-owner  changes  in  stockholders’  equity  be  presented  either  in  a  single  continuous  statement  of 
comprehensive income or in two separate but consecutive statements.  The provisions were effective for the Company’s financial 
statements for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2012 and the Company elected to present net income and other comprehensive 
income in two separate but consecutive statements.  The adoption of the amended guidance did not have a significant impact on 
the Company's financial statements and related disclosures.

Balance Sheet Offsetting

In December 2011, the FASB issued an amendment to accounting guidance on the presentation of offsetting of derivatives, 
and financial assets and liabilities.  The amended guidance requires quantitative disclosures regarding the gross amounts and their 
location within the statement of financial position.  The provisions are effective for the Company's financial statements for the 
fiscal year beginning October 1, 2013.  The adoption of the amended guidance will not have a significant impact on the Company's 
financial statements and related disclosures.

Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

In February 2013, the FASB issued an amendment to accounting guidance on the reporting of amounts reclassified out of 
accumulated other comprehensive income.  The amended guidance requires presentation of reclassification adjustments from each 
component of accumulated other comprehensive income either in a single note or parenthetically on the face of the financial 
statements, for those amounts required to be reclassified into net income in their entirety in the same reporting period.  For amounts 
that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety in the same reporting period, cross-reference to other disclosures is required. 
The provisions are effective for the Company's financial statements for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2013.  The Company 
elected to early adopt the amended guidance for the financial statements presented.  The adoption of the amended guidance did 
not have a significant impact on the Company's financial statements and related disclosures.

59

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

NOTE 2.  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

Pro Seed

In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, the Company completed the wind down of the Company's professional seed business. 
As a result, effective in its fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company classified its results of operations for all periods presented 
to reflect the professional seed business as a discontinued operation.  In 2013, the Company recorded a $0.1 million loss related 
to the wind-down of the professional seed business.  The Company recorded restructuring and other charges of $0.1 million and 
$3.4 million in fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively related to termination benefits provided to employees and other restructuring 
charges.  The company also recorded a $0.5 million impairment charge related to the investment in Turf-Seed (Europe) Limited 
in fiscal 2012.

On May 26, 2011, the Company and the former owners of Turf-Seed, Inc. agreed to an early settlement of the contingent 
consideration associated with the Company’s fiscal 2006 acquisition of Turf-Seed, Inc.  Concurrently, several other contracts and 
agreements between the Company and the former owners of Turf-Seed, Inc. were terminated or amended.  The Company agreed 
to pay a total of $21.3 million to resolve these matters, resulting in a net charge of $10.3 million after consideration of previously 
recorded liabilities and other aspects of the agreements.  In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company also recorded impairment 
and other charges of $6.5 million related to the investment in Turf-Seed (Europe) Limited.

Global Pro

On February 28, 2011, the Company completed the sale of Global Pro to ICL for $270 million.  After agreed upon adjustments 
(including post-closing adjustments), the Company received $270.9 million net proceeds, or $253.6 million after transaction costs. 
Results from discontinued operations for fiscal 2011 include an after-tax gain on the sale of Global Pro of $39.5 million, which 
includes transaction costs.  In addition, in fiscal 2012, the Company recorded an adjustment of $1.7 million as a change in estimate 
on the tax due on the sale of Global Pro.

Pursuant to the terms of the indenture governing the Company’s 7.25% Senior Notes due 2018 and the indenture governing 
the Company’s 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020, the Company had a period of 360 days to apply an amount equal to the net proceeds 
received from the sale of Global Pro or any other asset sales to repay indebtedness, acquire equity interests in certain entities, make 
capital expenditures, acquire other assets useful in a related business and/or make investments in certain joint ventures.  Any 
amount not so applied must be used to make an offer to repurchase the Senior Notes, provided that such repurchase offer may be 
deferred until such time as the unutilized net proceeds from the sale of Global Pro and any other asset sales exceed $50 million 
(at which time the entire unutilized net proceeds, and not just the amount in excess of $50 million, shall be applied to make such 
repurchase offer).   As of September 30, 2013, the Company had applied all but approximately $45 million of the net proceeds 
from the sale of Global Pro to one or more of the uses permitted by the indentures.  The Company has no unutilized net proceeds 
from any other asset sales.

The Company’s decision to exit the professional ornamental horticulture, turf and specialty agriculture markets and sell 
Global Pro was another step in its strategy to evolve its business portfolio to better leverage growth opportunities within its Global 
Consumer and Scotts LawnService® business segments.

In conjunction with the transaction, The Scotts Company LLC (“Scotts LLC”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Scotts Miracle-
Gro, and ICL entered into several product supply agreements which are generally up to five years in duration, as well as various 
trademark and technology licensing agreements with varying durations.  The purpose of these agreements is to allow each party 
to continue leveraging existing production capabilities and intellectual property to meet customer demand for their respective 
products.  Scotts LLC estimates that it will supply ICL with approximately $30 million of product under these agreements, as well 
as purchase approximately $15 million of materials from ICL, each on an annualized basis.

The Company’s continuing cash inflows and outflows related to these agreements are not considered to be significant in 
relation to the overall cash flows of Global Pro.  Furthermore, none of these agreements permit the Company to influence the 
operating or financial policies of Global Pro under the ownership of ICL.  Therefore, Global Pro met the criteria for presentation 
as discontinued operations.  As such, effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company classified Global Pro as discontinued 
operations for all periods presented.  The Global Pro results from discontinued operations include an allocation of interest expense 
relating to the amount of our then existing credit facilities that was required to be repaid from the sale proceeds.

60

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following table summarizes the results of Pro Seed and Global Pro as discontinued operations: 

Net sales. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Operating costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gain on sale of Global Pro business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Global Pro sale related transaction costs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other (income) expense, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes . . . . . . . . .
Income tax expense (benefit) from discontinued operations. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income (loss) from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions)

— $
0.3
—
—
—
—
—
(0.3)
(0.2)
(0.1) $

$

26.7
32.7
0.6
—
—
0.3
—
(6.9)
(0.2)
(6.7) $

124.7
122.5
20.2
(93.0)
17.3
(1.0)
1.7
57.0
29.0
28.0

NOTE 3.  IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER 

The following table details impairment, restructuring and other and rolls forward the restructuring and other accrued in fiscal 

2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011: 

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions)

Restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Property, plant and equipment impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goodwill and intangible asset impairments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total impairment, restructuring and other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

4.4

—

15.9

20.3

$

$

1.8

2.1

3.2

7.1

$

$

Amounts reserved for restructuring and other at beginning of year . . . . . . . . $
Restructuring and other in continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Restructuring and other in discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Payments and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amounts reserved for restructuring and other at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions)

10.2

$

29.6

$

9.1

—
(8.2)
11.1

$

1.8

0.1
(21.3)
10.2

$

27.4

9.1

19.4

55.9

0.5

27.4

20.2
(18.5)
29.6

Included in the restructuring reserves as of September 30, 2013, is $3.1 million that is classified as long-term.  Payments against 
the long-term reserves will be incurred as the employees covered by the 2011 restructuring plan retire.  The remaining amounts 
reserved will be paid out over the course of fiscal 2014. 

Fiscal 2013

During the first quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company recognized income of $4.7 million related to the reimbursement by a 
vendor for a portion of the costs incurred for the development and commercialization of products including the active ingredient 
MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment.  During the first quarter of 2013, the Company also recognized a $4.3 million asset 
impairment charge as a result of issues with the commercialization of an insect repellent technology for the Global Consumer 
segment.  Also, as a result of the Company's annual impairment review performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company 
recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6 million within the Global Consumer segment 
related to the Ortho® brand and certain sub-brands of Ortho®.  The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation of the 
historical performance and future growth of the Ortho® business. 

61

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

During fiscal 2013, the Company recognized $9.1 million in restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to 
international employees in relation to the profitability improvement initiative announced in December 2012, associated with the 
international restructuring plan to reduce headcount and streamline management decision making within the Global Consumer 
segment.

Fiscal 2012

  During fiscal 2012, in continuation of the 2011 restructuring plan, the Company incurred an additional $1.6 million in 
restructuring costs related to termination benefits provided to employees who accepted voluntary retirement and special termination 
benefits provided to certain employees upon future separation as well as $0.2 million related to curtailment charges for its U.S. 
defined benefit pension and U.S. retiree medical plans. 

For the year ended September 30, 2012, the Company recognized a $5.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues 

with commercialization of products including the active ingredient MAT 28 for the Global Consumer segment. 

Fiscal 2011

On August 8, 2011, the Company announced a restructuring plan designed to streamline management decision making and 
continue  the  regionalization  of  the  Company’s  operating  structure,  with  the  objective  of  reinvesting  the  savings  generated  in 
innovation  and  growth  initiatives.    During  fiscal  2011,  the  Company  incurred  $23.7  million  in  restructuring  costs  related  to 
termination benefits provided to employees who were involuntarily terminated and special termination benefits provided to certain 
employees upon future separation, as well as $2.3 million related to curtailment charges for its U.S. defined benefit pension and 
U.S. retiree medical plans. 

In connection with the Company’s annual impairment review, the Company recognized impairment charges related to the 
Wild Bird Food reporting unit of $9.1 million for property, plant and equipment, $16.8 million for intangible assets and $0.3 million 
for goodwill, based on their respective estimated fair values.  Losses generated by this business over the past two years, combined 
with a revised long-term outlook have negatively impacted the value of this business.

In addition, the Company recognized charges of $2.3 million for other intangible asset impairments and $1.4 million for 

restructuring and other charges.

NOTE 4.  GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

The following table displays a rollforward of the carrying amount of goodwill by reportable segment, as well as Corporate & 

Other: 

Global
Consumer

(In millions)

Scotts
LawnService

®

Corporate &
Other

Total

Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accumulated impairment losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at September 30, 2011

Acquisitions, net of purchase price adjustments . . . .

Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accumulated impairment losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at September 30, 2012

Acquisitions, net of purchase price adjustments . . . .

Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accumulated impairment losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at September 30, 2013

$

244.6
(62.8)
181.8

0.3

244.9
(62.8)
182.1

1.0

245.9
(62.8)
183.1

62

$

$

127.3

—
127.3

—

$

127.3

$

—

127.3

4.7

132.0
—

132.0

$

$

$

$

24.6
(24.6)
—

—

24.6
(24.6)
—

—

$

$

— $
—

— $

396.5
(87.4)
309.1

0.3

396.8
(87.4)
309.4

5.7

377.9
(62.8)
315.1

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following table presents intangible assets, net: 

September 30, 2013

September 30, 2012

Gross
Carrying
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

Net
Carrying
Amount

Gross
Carrying
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

Net
Carrying
Amount

$

61.8

81.2

47.0

103.9

(53.8) $
(65.0)
(24.8)
(88.2)

$

(In millions)

8.0

$

16.2

22.2

15.7

62.1

222.3

284.4

$

60.9

82.6

47.0

101.2

(47.1) $
(65.6)
(22.7)
(81.5)

$

13.8

17.0

24.3

19.7

74.8

232.3

307.1

Finite-lived intangible assets:

Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Customer accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tradenames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total finite-lived intangible assets,
net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Indefinite-lived tradenames. . . . . . . . . . . .

Total intangible assets, net. . . . . . . . .

Fiscal 2013 

During the first quarter of 2013, the Company recognized a $4.3 million asset impairment charge as a result of issues with 
the commercialization of an insect repellent technology for the Global Consumer segment.  During the fourth quarter of fiscal 
2013, the Company completed its annual impairment review and recognized an impairment charge for a non-recurring fair value 
adjustment  of  $11.6  million,  which  includes  $11.1  million  for  indefinite-lived  tradenames  and  $0.5  million  for  finite-lived 
tradenames, within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand and certain sub-brands of Ortho®.  The impact of 
the fair value adjustment was to reduce the carrying value of the indefinite-lived Ortho® brand and sub-brands from $137.1 million 
to $126.0 million.  The impairment charge is discussed further in “NOTE 3.  IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER 
CHARGES.”  As a result of the annual impairment review, the Company also determined that no other charges for impairment of 
goodwill or intangible assets were required.  The estimated fair value of each reporting unit was substantially in excess of its 
carrying value as of the annual test date.  Each of the indefinite-lived tradenames had an estimated fair value substantially in excess 
of its carrying value as of the annual test date, with the exception of the Ortho® brand.

Fiscal 2012 

The Company recognized a  $3.2 million impairment charge related to an intangible asset associated with the active ingredient 
MAT  28.    The  impairment  charge  is  discussed  further  in  “NOTE  3.    IMPAIRMENT,  RESTRUCTURING  AND  OTHER 
CHARGES.”

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company completed its annual impairment analysis and determined that no 
additional charges for impairment of goodwill or intangible assets were required.  The estimated fair value of each reporting unit 
was substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date.  Each of the indefinite-lived tradenames had an estimated 
fair value substantially in excess of its carrying value as of the annual test date, with the exception of the Ortho® tradename and 
French tradenames of KB® and Fertiligene®.  The carrying value of the Ortho® tradename and French tradenames (KB® and 
Fertiligene®) at September 30, 2012 were $137.1 million and $17.7 million, respectively.  The excess fair value over the carrying 
value of Ortho® tradename and French tradenames were 7.4% and 14.1%, respectively.  If future analyses indicate that fair value 
has declined below carrying value, the result will be an impairment of a portion of the indefinite-lived intangible asset value.

Fiscal 2011 

In connection with the Company’s annual impairment review, the Company recognized impairment charges related to the 
Wild Bird Food reporting unit of $16.8 million for intangible assets and $0.3 million for goodwill, based on their respective 
estimated fair values.  The impairment charges are discussed further in “NOTE 3.  IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND 
OTHER CHARGES.”

63

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Total amortization expense for the years ended September 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $11.2 million, $10.9 million and 
$11.4 million, respectively.  Amortization expense is estimated to be as follows for the years ending September 30 (in millions): 

2014. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2015. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2016. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NOTE 5.  DETAIL OF CERTAIN FINANCIAL STATEMENT ACCOUNTS

  The following is detail of certain financial statement accounts:

September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

INVENTORIES:

Finished goods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Work-in-progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raw materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PREPAID AND OTHER ASSETS:

Deferred tax asset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts receivable, non-trade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

182.6
42.7
99.6
324.9

67.1
12.9
33.0
113.0

$

$

$

$

September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET:

Land and improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Machinery and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Furniture and fixtures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Software. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aircraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Construction in progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Less: accumulated depreciation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

79.6
216.3
508.7
39.7
116.7
15.1
19.6
995.7
(573.4)
422.3

$

$

11.4
9.7
7.3
5.1
3.8

224.6
48.3
142.0
414.9

76.5
13.4
32.4
122.3

74.4
205.2
462.9
45.1
120.8
22.3
39.3
970.0
(542.6)
427.4

64

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES:

Payroll and other compensation accruals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Advertising and promotional accruals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES:

Accrued pension and postretirement liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Deferred tax liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS:

Unrecognized loss on derivatives, net of tax of $7.1, $10.6 and $9.6

Pension and other postretirement liabilities, net of tax of $31.4, $36.1 and
$33.5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Foreign currency translation adjustment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

$

September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

66.6
103.0
110.1
279.7

96.5
96.2
46.1
238.8

$

$

$

$

38.9
152.5
88.4
279.8

118.5
71.6
67.7
257.8

September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions)

(11.5) $

(16.6) $

(15.7)

(58.0)
(8.3)
(77.8) $

(67.6)
(3.1)
(87.3) $

(56.9)
(5.4)
(78.0)

NOTE 6.  MARKETING AGREEMENT

The Company is Monsanto’s exclusive agent for the marketing and distribution of consumer Roundup® herbicide products 
(with additional rights to new products containing glyphosate or other similar non-selective herbicides) in the consumer lawn and 
garden market within the United States and other specified countries, including Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, France, 
Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.  Under the terms of the Marketing Agreement, the Company is entitled to 
receive an annual commission from Monsanto as consideration for the performance of the Company’s duties as agent.  The annual 
gross commission under the Marketing Agreement is calculated as a percentage of the actual earnings before interest and income 
taxes  (EBIT)  of  the  consumer  Roundup®  business  in  the  markets  covered  by  the  Marketing Agreement  and  is  based  on  the 
achievement of two earnings thresholds, as defined in the Marketing Agreement.  The Marketing Agreement also requires the 
Company to make annual payments to Monsanto as a contribution against the overall expenses of the consumer Roundup® business. 
The annual contribution payment is defined in the Marketing Agreement as $20 million. 

In consideration for the rights granted to the Company under the Marketing Agreement for North America, the Company 
was required to pay a marketing fee of $32 million to Monsanto.  The Company has deferred this amount on the basis that the 
payment will provide a future benefit through commissions that will be earned under the Marketing Agreement.  The economic 
useful life over which the marketing fee is being amortized is 20 years, with a remaining amortization period of five years as of 
September 30, 2013.

Under the terms of the Marketing Agreement, the Company performs certain functions, primarily manufacturing conversion, 
distribution and logistics, and selling and marketing support, on behalf of Monsanto in the conduct of the consumer Roundup® 
business.  The actual costs incurred for these activities are charged to and reimbursed by Monsanto.  The Company records costs 
incurred under the Marketing Agreement for which the Company is the primary obligor on a gross basis, recognizing such costs 
in “Cost of sales” and the reimbursement of these costs in “Net sales,” with no effect on gross profit or net income. 

The gross commission earned under the Marketing Agreement, the contribution payments to Monsanto and the amortization 
of the initial marketing fee paid to Monsanto are included in the calculation of net sales in the Company’s Consolidated Statements 
of Operations.  The elements of the net commission earned under the Marketing Agreement and reimbursements associated with 
the Marketing Agreement and included in “Net sales” were as follows:

65

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Year Ended September 30

2013

2012

2011

(In millions)

Gross commission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Contribution expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amortization of marketing fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net commission income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reimbursements associated with Marketing Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total net sales associated with Marketing Agreement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

81.8
(20.0)
(0.8)
61.0
62.0
123.0

$

$

81.3
(20.0)
(0.8)
60.5
79.6
140.1

$

$

77.9
(20.0)
(0.8)
57.1
63.7
120.8

The Marketing Agreement has no definite term except as it relates to the European Union countries (the “EU term”).  The 
current EU term extends through September 30, 2015.  Thereafter, the Marketing Agreement provides that the parties may agree 
to renew the EU term for an additional three years.

The Marketing Agreement provides Monsanto with the right to terminate the Marketing Agreement upon an event of default 
(as defined in the Marketing Agreement) by the Company, a change in control of Monsanto or the sale of the consumer Roundup® 
business.   The  Marketing Agreement  provides  the  Company  with  the  right  to  terminate  the  Marketing Agreement  in  certain 
circumstances, including an event of default by Monsanto or the sale of the consumer Roundup® business.  Unless Monsanto 
terminates the Marketing Agreement due to an event of default by the Company, Monsanto is required to pay a termination fee to 
the Company that varies by program year.  The termination fee is calculated as a percentage of the value of the Roundup® business 
exceeding a certain threshold, but in no event will the termination fee be less than $16 million.  Monsanto may also be able to 
terminate the Marketing Agreement within a given region, including North America, without paying a termination fee if unit 
volume sales to consumers in that region decline: (1) over a cumulative three-fiscal-year period; or (2) by more than 5% for each 
of two consecutive years.  If the Marketing Agreement was terminated for any reason, the Company would also lose all, or a 
substantial portion, of the significant source of earnings and overhead expense absorption the Marketing Agreement provides.

Under the Marketing Agreement, Monsanto must provide the Company with notice of any proposed sale of the consumer 
Roundup® business, allow the Company to participate in the sale process and negotiate in good faith with the Company with 
respect to any such proposed sale.  In the event the Company acquires the consumer Roundup® business in such a sale, the Company 
would receive as a credit against the purchase price the amount of the termination fee that would have been paid to the Company 
if Monsanto had exercised its right to terminate the Marketing Agreement in connection with a sale to another party.  If Monsanto 
decides to sell the consumer Roundup® business to another party, the Company must let Monsanto know whether the Company 
intends to terminate the Marketing Agreement and forfeit any right to a termination fee.  For additional details regarding the 
Marketing Agreement, see “ITEM 1A.  RISK FACTORS - If Monsanto were to terminate the Marketing Agreement for consumer 
Roundup® products, we would lose a substantial source of future earnings and overhead expense absorption” of this Annual Report 
on Form 10-K.

NOTE 7.  ACQUISITIONS

During fiscal 2013, 2012 and 2011, the Company completed several acquisition within its controls, growing media and 
Scotts LawnService® businesses that individually and in the aggregate were not significant.  The aggregate purchase price of these 
acquisitions  was  $7.2  million,  $6.7  million  and  $10.9  million  in  fiscal  2013,  fiscal  2012  and  fiscal  2011,  respectively.   The 
Consolidated  Financial  Statements  include  the  results  of  operations  from  these  business  combinations  from  the  date  of  each 
acquisition.  

On October 14, 2013, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of the Tomcat® consumer rodent control business 
from Bell Laboratories, Inc. located in Madison, Wisconsin for $60 million.  The initial purchase price accounting for the Tomcat® 
acquisition will be provided during the first quarter of fiscal 2014.

NOTE 8.  RETIREMENT PLANS

The Company sponsors a defined contribution 401(k) plan for substantially all U.S. associates.  The Company matches 
150% of associates’ initial 4% contribution and 50% of their remaining contribution up to 6%.  The Company recorded charges 
of $13.1 million, $12.9 million and $13.2 million under the plan in fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively. 

The Company sponsors two defined benefit plans for certain U.S. associates.  Benefits under these plans have been frozen 
and closed to new associates since 1997.  The benefits under the primary plan are based on years of service and the associates’ 
average final compensation or stated amounts.  The Company’s funding policy, consistent with statutory requirements and tax 

66

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

considerations, is based on actuarial computations using the Projected Unit Credit method.  The second frozen plan is a non-
qualified supplemental pension plan.  This plan provides for incremental pension payments so that total pension payments equal 
amounts that would have been payable from the Company’s pension plan if it were not for limitations imposed by the income tax 
regulations.  In connection with the restructuring plan discussed in “NOTE 3.  IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER 
CHARGES,” the Company recognized a plan curtailment gain of $0.5 million in fiscal 2013 and charge of $0.2 million in fiscal 
2012 for a change in the benefit obligations associated with these plans.

The Company sponsors defined benefit pension plans associated with its international businesses in the United Kingdom, 
Germany, France and the Netherlands.  These plans generally cover all associates of the respective businesses, with retirement 
benefits primarily based on years of service and compensation levels.  In fiscal 2013 the Company's remaining obligations were 
settled for the defined benefit pension plan associated with its Netherlands business.  Two of the Company’s previously-sponsored 
international defined benefit plans were transferred to ICL in connection with the sale of Global Pro on February 28, 2011.  On 
July 1, 2010, the Company froze its two U.K. defined benefit pension plans and transferred participants to an amended defined 
contribution plan.  Under the frozen plans, participants are no longer credited for future service; however, future salary increases 
will continue to be factored into each participant’s final pension benefit.

67

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following tables present information about benefit obligations, plan assets, annual expense, assumptions and other 
information about the Company’s defined benefit pension plans.  The defined benefit plans are valued using a September 30 
measurement date.

U.S. Defined
Benefit Plans

International
Defined
Benefit Plans

2013

2012

2013

2012

(In millions)

118.8

$

109.6

$

188.0

$

159.6

—

3.9
(8.8)
(7.2)
—

—

—
—

106.7

106.7

85.3

3.4

2.8
(7.2)
—

—

—

$

$

$

—

4.6

11.5
(7.1)
0.2

—

—
—

118.8

118.8

74.3

13.0

5.1
(7.1)
—

—

—

$

$

$

$
84.3
(22.4) $

85.3
$
(33.5) $

$

106.7
106.7
84.3

$

118.8
118.8
85.3

(0.2) $
(22.2)
(22.4) $

36.9

—

36.9

$

$

(0.2) $
(33.4)
(33.6) $

48.8

—

48.8

$

$

1.2

7.8

4.5
(6.1)
(0.8)
(4.6)
(1.3)
2.0

$

$

$

190.7

184.8

139.8

12.1

8.2
(6.1)
(4.6)
0.7
(1.3)
148.8
$
(41.9) $

$

190.7
184.8
148.8

(1.0) $
(40.9)
(41.9) $

56.1

0.4

56.5

$

$

1.1

8.6

22.2
(6.6)
—

—
(0.9)
4.0

188.0

179.9

118.2

15.3

9.3
(6.6)
—

4.3
(0.7)
139.8
(48.2)

188.0
179.9
139.8

(0.9)
(47.3)
(48.2)

55.5

0.5

56.0

Change in projected benefit obligation
Benefit obligation at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Actuarial (gain) loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Benefits paid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Curtailment loss (gain) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Settlement (gain) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Projected benefit obligation at end of year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year . . . . . . . . . . $
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Actual return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Employer contribution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Benefits paid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Settlement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Foreign currency translation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of plan assets at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Underfunded status at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Information for pension plans with an accumulated
benefit obligation in excess of plan assets
Projected benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accumulated benefit obligation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fair value of plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
consist of:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Noncurrent liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total amount accrued . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Amounts recognized in accumulated other
comprehensive loss consist of:
Actuarial loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Prior service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net amount recognized. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

68

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

U.S. Defined
Benefit Plans

International
Defined
Benefit Plans

2013

2012

2013

2012

(In millions, except percentage figures)

Total change in other comprehensive loss attributable to:
Pension benefit gain (loss) during the period
Reclassification of pension benefit losses to net income
Curtailment gain during the period
Foreign currency translation
Total change in other comprehensive loss
Amounts in accumulated other comprehensive loss
expected to be recognized as components of net periodic
benefit cost in fiscal 2014 are as follows:
Actuarial loss
Prior service cost
Amount to be amortized into net periodic benefit cost
Weighted average assumptions used in development of
projected benefit obligation

$

$

$

$

7.1
4.8
—
—
11.9

3.6
—
3.6

$

$

$

(5.1)
5.1
—
—
— $

(0.3)
1.2
(1.0)
(0.4)
(0.5)

$

$

(14.8)
0.8
—
(1.6)
(15.6)

$

$

1.3
—
1.3

Discount rate
Rate of compensation increase

4.32%
n/a

3.39%
n/a

4.32%
3.74%

4.45%
3.40%

Components of net periodic benefit cost
Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net periodic benefit cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Curtailment loss (gain) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Settlement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contractual termination benefits . . . . . . . . . . .
Total benefit cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Weighted average assumptions used in
development of net periodic benefit cost
Discount rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected return on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rate of compensation increase . . . . . . . . . . . . .

U.S. Defined
Benefit Plans

International
Defined Benefit Plans

2013

2012

2011

2013

2012

2011

(In millions, except percentage figures)

— $
3.8
(5.2)
4.8
3.4
—
—
—
3.4

$

— $
4.6
(5.5)
5.1
4.2
0.2
—
—
4.4

$

— $
4.8
(5.1)
4.9
4.6
1.1
—
—
5.7

$

1.2
7.8
(8.7)
1.2
1.5
(0.5)
(0.5)
—
0.5

$

$

1.1
8.6
(8.4)
0.8
2.1
—
—
0.3
2.4

$

$

1.3
8.9
(8.4)
1.2
3.0
—
—
—
3.0

3.39%
6.25%
n/a

4.29%
7.50%
n/a

4.66%
7.50%
n/a

4.45%
6.52%
3.4%

5.46%
7.00%
3.5%

5.01%
7.00%
3.5%

69

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Other information:
Plan asset allocations:

Target for September 30, 2014:

Equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Insurance Contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

September 30, 2013:

Equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Insurance Contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

September 30, 2012:

Equity securities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Debt securities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Insurance Contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expected company contributions in fiscal 2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Expected future benefit payments:
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 – 2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

U.S. Defined
Benefit  Plans

International
Defined
Benefit Plans

(In millions, except percentage figures)

33%
67%
—%
—%

33%
66%
1%
—%

36%
61%
3%
—%
3.9

7.1
7.1
7.2
7.2
7.3
36.1

$

$

49%
49%
—%
2%

47%
44%
—%
9%

54%
41%
—%
5%

7.3

6.2
6.5
6.6
7.0
7.3
43.0

70

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following tables set forth the fair value of the Company’s pension plan assets, segregated by level within the fair value 

hierarchy:

September 30, 2013

Quoted Prices in  
Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets (Level 1)

Significant  Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)

Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

(In millions)

U.S. Defined Benefit Plan Assets
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Mutual funds—equities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mutual funds—fixed income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
International Defined Benefit Plan Assets
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Insurance contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mutual funds—equities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mutual funds—fixed income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

1.5
—
—
1.5

1.6
—
—
—
1.6

$

$

$

$

— $

27.5
55.3
82.8

$

— $
3.3
73.9
70.0
147.2

$

— $
—
—
— $

— $
—
—
—
— $

September 30, 2012

Quoted Prices in  
Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets (Level 1)

Significant  Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)

Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

(In millions)

U.S. Defined Benefit Plan Assets
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Mutual funds—equities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mutual funds—fixed income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
International Defined Benefit Plan Assets
Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Insurance contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mutual funds—equities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mutual funds—fixed income. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

2.3
30.8
52.2
85.3

1.0
—
—
—
1.0

$

$

$

$

— $
—
—
— $

— $
3.4
73.2
57.9
134.5

$

— $
—
—
— $

— $
4.4
—
—
4.4

$

1.5
27.5
55.3
84.3

1.6
3.3
73.9
70.0
148.8

2.3
30.8
52.2
85.3

1.0
7.8
73.2
57.9
139.9

The fair value of the mutual funds are valued at the exchange-listed year end closing price or at the net asset value of shares 
held by the fund at the end of the year.  Insurance contracts are valued by discounting the related cash flows using a current year 
end market rate or at cash surrender value, which is presumed to equal fair value.  Funds of hedge funds are valued at the net asset 
value of shares held by the fund at the end of the year.

71

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Company’s level 3 pension plan assets:

Balance, September 30, 2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Realized gain on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrealized gain on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance, September 30, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Realized gain on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unrealized gain on plan assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency translation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements (net) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance, September 30, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Level 3 Assets
Insurance  contracts

(In millions)

3.7
1.0
—
(0.1)
(0.2)
4.4
0.3
—
—
(4.7)
—

Investment Strategy

Target allocation percentages among various asset classes are maintained based on an individual investment policy established 
for each of the various pension plans.  Asset allocations are designed to achieve long-term objectives of return while mitigating 
against downside risk and considering expected cash requirements necessary to fund benefit payments.  However, the Company 
cannot predict future investment returns and therefore cannot determine whether future pension plan funding requirements could 
materially and adversely affect its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Basis for Long-Term Rate of Return on Asset Assumptions

The Company’s expected long-term rate of return on asset assumptions are derived from studies conducted by third parties. 
The studies include a review of anticipated future long-term performance of individual asset classes and consideration of the 
appropriate asset allocation strategy given the anticipated requirements of the plans to determine the average rate of earnings 
expected.  While the studies give appropriate consideration to recent fund performance and historical returns, the assumptions 
primarily represent expectations about future rates of return over the long term.

NOTE 9.  ASSOCIATE MEDICAL BENEFITS

The  Company  provides  comprehensive  major  medical  benefits  to  certain  of  its  retired  associates  and  their  dependents. 
Substantially all of the Company’s domestic associates who were hired before January 1, 1998 become eligible for these benefits 
if they retire at age 55 or older with more than 10 years of service.  The retiree medical plan requires certain minimum contributions 
from retired associates and includes provisions to limit the overall cost increases the Company is required to cover.  The Company 
funds its portion of retiree medical benefits on a pay-as-you-go basis.

The following table sets forth information about the retiree medical plan for domestic associates.  The retiree medical plan 

is valued using a September 30 measurement date.

72

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Change in Accumulated Plan Benefit Obligation (APBO)
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
Service cost
Interest cost
Plan participants’ contributions
Actuarial (loss) gain
Early retirement reinsurance program receipts
Benefits paid (net of federal subsidy of $0.3 and $0.3)
Benefit obligation at end of year
Change in plan assets
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
Employer contribution
Plan participants’ contributions
Gross benefits paid
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
Unfunded status at end of year
Amounts recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
Current liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
Total amount accrued
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss consist of:
Actuarial loss
Total change in other comprehensive loss attributable to:
Benefit (gain) loss during the period
Net (gain) loss amortized during the year
Total change in other comprehensive (gain) loss

2013

2012

(In millions, except percentage
figures)

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

36.3
0.5
1.3
1.1
(4.4)
—
(3.2)
31.6

$

$

— $
2.4
1.1
(3.5)
—
(31.6)

$

(2.4)
(29.2)
(31.6)

0.4

(4.3)
(0.2)
(4.5)

$

$

$

$

$

34.4
0.5
1.6
1.0
1.5
0.2
(2.9)
36.3

—
2.0
1.0
(3.0)
—
(36.3)

(2.5)
(33.8)
(36.3)

3.4

1.6
0.1
1.7

Discount rate used in development of APBO

4.54%

3.66%

Components of net periodic benefit cost
Service cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Interest cost . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Curtailment loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Amortization of actuarial loss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total postretirement benefit cost. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Discount rate used in development of net periodic benefit cost . . . . . . . .

2013

2012

2011

0.5

1.3

—

0.1

1.9

$

$

0.6

1.6

—

—

2.2

$

$

0.5

1.6

1.1

—

3.2

3.66%

4.66%

4.91%

The estimated actuarial gain that will be amortized from accumulated loss into net periodic benefit cost over the next fiscal 
year is immaterial.  In connection with the restructuring plan discussed in “NOTE 3.  IMPAIRMENT, RESTRUCTURING AND 
OTHER CHARGES,” the Company recognized a plan curtailment charge of $1.1 million in fiscal 2011 for an increase in the 
benefit obligation associated with its retiree medical plan.

On December 8, 2003, the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act (the “Act”) became law.  The 
Act provides for a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans that provide a prescription drug benefit that is 
at least actuarially equivalent to the benefit established by the Act.  The APBO at September 30, 2013, has been reduced by a 
deferred actuarial gain in the amount of $0.3 million to reflect the effect of the subsidy related to benefits attributed to past service. 

73

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The amortization of the actuarial gain and reduction of service and interest costs served to reduce net periodic post retirement 
benefit cost for fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011 by $0.3 million, $0.2 million and $1.1 million, respectively.

For measurement as of September 30, 2013, management has assumed that health care costs will increase at an annual rate 
of 7.00% in fiscal 2013, decreasing 0.25% per year to an ultimate trend of 5.00% in 2021.  A 1% increase in health cost trend rate 
assumptions  would  increase  the APBO  by  $1.4  million  as  of  September 30,  2013.   A  1%  decrease  in  health  cost  trend  rate 
assumptions would decrease the APBO by $1.3 million as of September 30, 2013.  A 1% increase or decrease in the same rate 
would not have a material effect on service or interest costs.

The following benefit payments under the plan are expected to be paid by the Company and the retirees for the fiscal years 

indicated:

Gross
Benefit
Payments

Retiree
Contributions

Medicare
Part D
Subsidy

Net
Company
Payments

2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2019 – 2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

4.0
4.2
4.4
4.6
4.8
27.3

(In millions)
(1.2) $
(1.4)
(1.6)
(1.8)
(2.0)
(13.6)

(0.4) $
(0.4)
(0.4)
(0.5)
(0.5)
(3.0)

2.4
2.4
2.4
2.3
2.3
10.7

The Company also provides comprehensive major medical benefits to its associates.  The Company is self-insured for certain 
health benefits up to $0.5 million per occurrence per individual.  The cost of such benefits is recognized as expense in the period 
the claim is incurred.  This cost was $35.1 million, $28.7 million and $27.9 million in fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, 
respectively.

NOTE 10. DEBT

The components of long-term debt are as follows: 

September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

Credit Facilities - Revolving loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Senior Notes – 7.25% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Senior Notes – 6.625% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Less current portions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long term debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

73.0
200.0
200.0
85.3
12.2
570.5
92.4
478.1

$

$

The Company’s debt matures as follows for each of the next five fiscal years and thereafter (in millions):

2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

74

377.1
200.0
200.0
—
5.5
782.6
1.5
781.1

92.4
1.9
74.2
0.5
200.5
201.0
570.5

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Credit Facilities

Scotts  Miracle-Gro  and  certain  of  its  subsidiaries  are  parties  to  an  amended  and  restated  senior  secured  credit  facility, 
providing for revolving loans in the aggregate principal amount of up to $1.7 billion over a five-year term.  Borrowings may be 
made in various currencies including U.S. dollars, Euros, British pounds, Australian dollars and Canadian dollars.  Under this 
credit facility, the Company may request up to an additional $450 million in revolving and/or term commitments, subject to certain 
specified conditions, including approval from the Company’s lenders. 

The terms of the credit facility provide for customary representations and warranties and affirmative covenants.  The credit 
facility also contains customary negative covenants setting forth limitations, subject to negotiated carve-outs on liens; contingent 
obligations;  fundamental  changes;  acquisitions,  investments,  loans  and  advances;  indebtedness;  restrictions  on  subsidiary 
distributions; transactions with affiliates and officers; sales of assets; sale and leaseback transactions; changing the Company’s 
fiscal year end; modifications of certain debt instruments; negative pledge clauses; entering into new lines of business; and restricted 
payments, which were limited to an aggregate of $125 million annually through fiscal 2013 and $150 million annually beginning 
in fiscal 2014 if the Company's leverage ratio, after giving effect to any such annual dividend payment, exceeds 2.50.  The credit 
facility is secured by collateral that includes the capital stock of specified subsidiaries of Scotts Miracle-Gro, substantially all 
domestic accounts receivable (exclusive of any “sold” receivables), inventory and equipment.  The credit facility is guaranteed 
by substantially all of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s domestic subsidiaries, which have a carrying value of $1.5 billion.

Loans made under the credit facility bear interest, at the Company’s election, at a rate per annum equal to either the ABR 
or LIBOR rate, (both as defined) plus an applicable margin.  Amounts outstanding under the credit facility at September 30, 2013 
were at interest rates based on LIBOR applicable to the borrowed currencies plus 200 basis points.  Under the credit facility, the 
Company has the ability to obtain letters of credit up to $75 million outstanding.  At September 30, 2013, the Company had letters 
of credit in the aggregate face amount of $23.3 million outstanding on the credit facility, and $1.6 billion of availability under its 
credit facility.

Senior Notes- 7.25%

On January 14, 2010, Scotts Miracle-Gro issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2018 
(the “7.25% Senior Notes”).  The net proceeds of the offering were used to reduce outstanding borrowings under the Company’s 
then existing credit facilities.  The 7.25% Senior Notes represent general unsecured senior obligations of Scotts Miracle-Gro, and 
were sold to the public at 99.254% of the principal amount thereof, to yield 7.375% to maturity.  The 7.25% Senior Notes have 
interest payment dates of January 15 and July 15 of each year, which began on July 15, 2010 and may be redeemed prior to maturity 
at applicable redemption premiums.  The 7.25% Senior Notes contain usual and customary incurrence-based covenants, which 
include, but are not limited to, restrictions on the incurrence of additional indebtedness, the incurrence of liens and the issuance 
of certain preferred shares, and the making of certain distributions, investments and other restricted payments, as well as other 
usual and customary covenants, which include, but are not limited to, restrictions on sale and leaseback transactions, restrictions 
on purchases or redemptions of Scotts Miracle-Gro stock and prepayments of subordinated debt, limitations on asset sales and 
restrictions on transactions with affiliates.  The 7.25% Senior Notes mature on January 15, 2018.  Substantially all of Scotts 
Miracle-Gro's domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of the 7.25% Senior Notes.

Senior Notes- 6.625%

On December 16, 2010, Scotts Miracle-Gro issued $200 million aggregate principal amount of 6.625% Senior Notes due 
2020 (the “6.625%” Senior Notes”) in a private placement exempt from the registration requirements under the Securities Act of 
1933, as amended.  The net proceeds of the offering were used to repay outstanding borrowings under the Company’s then existing 
credit facilities and for general corporate purposes.  The 6.625% Senior Notes represent general unsecured senior obligations of 
Scotts Miracle-Gro and rank equal in right of payment with the Company’s existing and future unsecured senior debt, including, 
without limitation, the 7.25% Senior Notes.  The 6.625% Senior Notes have interest payment dates of June 15 and December 15 
of each year, which began on June 15, 2011, and may be redeemed prior to maturity at applicable redemption premiums.  The 
6.625% Senior Notes contain usual and customary incurrence-based covenants, as well as other usual and customary covenants, 
substantially similar to those contained in the 7.25% Senior Notes.  The 6.625% Senior Notes mature on December 15, 2020. 
Substantially all of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s domestic subsidiaries serve as guarantors of the 6.625% Senior Notes. 

The Company was in compliance with the terms of all debt covenants at September 30, 2013.  The credit facility contains, 
among other obligations, an affirmative covenant regarding the Company’s leverage ratio, calculated as average total indebtedness, 
as described in the Company’s credit facility, relative to the Company’s EBITDA, as adjusted pursuant to the terms of the credit 
facility (“Adjusted EBITDA”).  Under the terms of the credit facility, the maximum leverage ratio was 3.50 as of September 30, 
2013.  The Company’s leverage ratio was 2.05 at September 30, 2013.  The Company’s credit facility also includes an affirmative 

75

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

covenant regarding its interest coverage ratio.  Interest coverage ratio is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA divided by interest expense, 
as described in the credit facility, and excludes costs related to refinancings.  Under the terms of the credit facility, the minimum 
interest coverage ratio was 3.50 for the year ended September 30, 2013.  The Company’s interest coverage ratio was 6.59 for the 
year ended September 30, 2013.  The weighted average interest rates on average debt were 6.2% and 6.0% for fiscal 2013 and 
fiscal 2012, respectively.

Interest Rate Swap Agreements

At September 30, 2013, the Company had outstanding interest rate swap agreements with major financial institutions that 
effectively  converted  the  LIBOR  index  portion  of  variable-rate  debt  denominated  in  U.S. dollars  to  a  fixed  rate.   The  swap 
agreements had a total U.S. dollar notional amount of $1,100 million at September 30, 2013.  Interest payments made between 
the effective date and expiration date are hedged by the swap agreements, except as noted below.  The notional amount, effective 
date, expiration date and rate of each of these swap agreements are shown in the table below.

Notional Amount
(in millions)

Effective
Date (a)

Expiration
Date

Fixed
Rate

$

50
150 (b) 
150 (c) 
50 (b) 
100 (b) 
150 (c) 
50 (d) 
150 (b) 
50 (b) 
200 (c) 

2/14/2012
2/7/2012

11/16/2009

2/16/2010

2/21/2012

12/20/2011

12/6/2012

2/7/2017

2/7/2017

12/20/2016

2/14/2016
5/7/2016

5/16/2016

5/16/2016

5/23/2016

6/20/2016

9/6/2017

5/7/2019

5/7/2019

6/20/2019

3.78%
2.42%

3.26%

3.05%

2.40%

2.61%

2.96%

2.12%

2.25%

2.12%

(a) 

(b) 

(c) 

(d) 

The effective date refers to the date on which interest payments were, or will be, first hedged by the applicable swap 
agreement.
Interest payments made during the three-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective 
date are hedged by the swap agreement.
Interest payments made during the six-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective date 
are hedged by the swap agreement.
Interest payments made during the nine-month period of each year that begins with the month and day of the effective 
date are hedged by the swap agreement.

Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement

The Company maintains a Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement (“MARP Agreement”), which is uncommitted 
and provides for the discretionary sale by the Company, and the discretionary purchase by the banks, on a revolving basis, of 
accounts receivable generated by sales to three specified account debtors in an aggregate amount not to exceed $400 million.  On 
October 25, 2013, the Company signed an amendment to the existing MARP Agreement which extended the termination date to 
August 29, 2014, or such later date as may be mutually agreed by the Company and the banks party thereto.  Under the amended 
terms of the MARP Agreement, the banks have the opportunity to purchase those accounts receivable offered by the Company at 
a discount (from the agreed base value thereof) effectively equal to the one-week LIBOR plus 0.75%.

The Company accounts for the sale of receivables under its MARP Agreement as short-term debt and continues to carry the 
receivables on its Consolidated Balance Sheet, primarily as a result of the Company’s right to repurchase receivables sold.  There 
were $85.3 million of short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2013 and no short-term borrowings as of September 30, 2012 
under the MARP Agreement.  The carrying value of the receivables pledged as collateral was $106.7 million as of September 30, 
2013.

76

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Estimated Fair Values

A description of the methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair values of the Company’s debt instruments is as 

follows:

Credit Facility

The interest rate currently available to the Company fluctuates with the applicable LIBOR rate, prime rate or Federal Funds 
Effective Rate, and thus the carrying value is a reasonable estimate of fair value.  The fair value measurement for  the credit facility 
was classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

7.25% Senior Notes

The fair value of the 7.25% Senior Notes can be determined based on the trading value of the 7.25% Senior Notes in the 
open market.  The difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the 7.25% Senior Notes represents the premium or 
discount on that date.  The fair value measurement for the 7.25% Senior Notes was classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

6.625% Senior Notes

The fair value of the 6.625% Senior Notes can be determined based on the trading value of the 6.625% Senior Notes in the 
open market.  The difference between the carrying value and the fair value of the 6.625% Senior Notes represents the premium 
or discount on that date.  The fair value measurement  for the 6.625% Senior Notes was classified in Level 1 of the fair value 
hierarchy.

Accounts Receivable Pledged

The interest rate on the short-term debt associated with accounts receivable pledged under the MARP Agreement fluctuates 
with the applicable LIBOR rate, and thus the carrying value is a reasonable estimate of fair value.  The fair value measurement 
for the MARP agreement was classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

The estimated fair values of the Company’s debt instruments are as follows:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

Carrying
Amount

Fair
Value

Carrying
Amount

Fair
Value

Revolving loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Senior Notes – 7.25% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Senior Notes – 6.625% . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Master Accounts Receivable Purchase Agreement. . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

73.0
200.0
200.0
85.3
12.2

$

(In millions)
73.0
209.5
213.5
85.3
12.2

$

377.1
200.0
200.0
—
5.5

377.1
212.0
217.5
—
5.5

NOTE 11.  SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Authorized and issued capital shares consisted of the following:

Preferred shares, no par value:

Authorized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issued. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.2 shares
0.0 shares

0.2 shares
0.0 shares

Common shares, no par value, $.01 stated value per share

Authorized . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Issued. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

100.0 shares
68.1 shares

100.0 shares
68.1 shares

September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

77

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

In fiscal 1995, The Scotts Company merged with Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, Inc. (“Miracle-Gro”).  At September 30, 
2013, the former shareholders of Miracle-Gro, including Hagedorn Partnership L.P., owned approximately 27% of Scotts Miracle-
Gro’s outstanding common shares and, thus, have the ability to significantly influence the election of directors and other actions 
requiring the approval of Scotts Miracle-Gro’s shareholders.

Under the terms of the merger agreement with Miracle-Gro, the former shareholders of Miracle-Gro may not collectively 
acquire, directly or indirectly, beneficial ownership of Voting Stock (as that term is defined in the Miracle-Gro merger agreement) 
representing more than 49% of the total voting power of the outstanding Voting Stock, except pursuant to a tender offer for 100% 
of that total voting power, which tender offer is made at a price per share which is not less than the market price per share on the 
last trading day before the announcement of the tender offer and is conditioned upon the receipt of at least 50% of the Voting Stock 
beneficially owned by shareholders of Scotts Miracle-Gro other than the former shareholders of Miracle-Gro and their affiliates 
and associates.

In August 2010, the Scotts Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $500 million of Scotts Miracle-
Gro’s common shares (the “Common Shares”) over a four-year period through September 30, 2014.  On May 4, 2011, the Scotts 
Miracle-Gro Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an additional $200 million of the Common Shares, resulting 
in authority to repurchase up to a total of $700 million of the Common Shares through September 30, 2014.  The authorization 
provides the Company with flexibility to purchase the Common Shares from time to time in open market purchases or through 
privately negotiated transactions.  All or part of the repurchases may be made under Rule 10b5-1 plans, which the Company may 
enter from time to time and which enable the repurchases to occur on a more regular basis, or pursuant to accelerated share 
repurchases.  The share repurchase authorization, which expires September 30, 2014, may be suspended or discontinued at any 
time, and there can be no guarantee as to the timing or amount of any repurchases.  Since the inception of this program in the 
fourth quarter of fiscal 2010 through September 30, 2013,  Scotts Miracle-Gro has repurchased approximately 7.8 million Common 
Shares for $401.2 million to be held in treasury.  Common Shares held in treasury totaling 0.7 million and 1.1 million were reissued 
in support of share-based compensation awards and employee purchases under the employee stock purchase plan during fiscal 
2013 and fiscal 2012, respectively.

Share-Based Awards

Scotts  Miracle-Gro  grants  share-based  awards  annually  to  officers,  certain  other  employees  of  the  Company  and  non-
employee directors of Scotts Miracle-Gro.  The share-based awards have consisted of stock options, restricted stock, restricted 
stock units, deferred stock units and performance-based awards.  Stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) have been granted, though 
not in recent years.  SARs result in less dilution than stock options as the SAR holder receives a net share settlement upon exercise. 
All of these share-based awards have been made under plans approved by the shareholders.  Generally, employee share-based 
awards provide for three-year cliff vesting.  Vesting for non-employee director awards varies based on the length of service and 
age of each director at the time of the award.  Vesting of performance-based awards are dependent on service and achievement of 
specified performance targets.  Share-based awards are forfeited if a holder terminates employment or service with the Company 
prior to the vesting date.  The Company estimates that 15% of its share-based awards will be forfeited based on an analysis of 
historical trends.  This assumption is re-evaluated on an annual basis and adjusted as appropriate.  Stock options and SAR awards 
have exercise prices equal to the market price of the underlying common shares on the date of grant with a term of 10 years.  If 
available, Scotts Miracle-Gro will typically use treasury shares, or if not available, newly-issued Common Shares, in satisfaction 
of its share-based awards.

A maximum of 23 million Common Shares are available for issuance under share-based award plans.  At September 30, 
2013, approximately 3.3 million Common Shares were not subject to outstanding awards and were available to underlie the grant 
of new share-based awards.

78

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following is a recap of the share-based awards granted during the periods indicated:

Employees

Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Restricted stock units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Performance units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Board of Directors

Deferred stock units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total share-based awards. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aggregate fair value at grant dates (in millions) . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

—
178,030
178,321

33,253
389,604

464,061
107,373
110,079

30,943
712,456

17.5

$

17.4

$

429,700
65,939
53,874

30,296
579,809

13.8

Total share-based compensation was as follows for the periods indicated:

Share-based compensation
Tax benefit recognized

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

$

$

10.3
3.9

$

12.5
4.8

16.0
6.2

As of September 30, 2013, total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested share-based awards amounted to 
$10.7 million.  This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.9 years.  The tax benefit realized from 
the tax deductions associated with the exercise of share-based awards and the vesting of restricted stock totaled $4.5 million for 
fiscal 2013.

Stock Options/SARs

Aggregate stock option and SARs activity consisted of the following for the year ended September 30, 2013 (options/SARs 

in millions):

Beginning balance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercised . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ending balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exercisable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

No. of
  Options/SARs  

WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price

$

3.3
—
(0.5)
(0.1)
2.7
2.0

37.28
—
31.88
49.50
37.60
33.53

79

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

At  September 30,  2013,  the  Company  expects  0.7  million  stock  options  (after  forfeitures),  with  a  weighted-average 
exercise price of $49.57, intrinsic value of $3.7 million and average remaining term of 7.8 years, to vest in the future.  The following 
summarizes certain information pertaining to stock option and SAR awards outstanding and exercisable at September 30, 2013 
(options/SARs in millions): 

Range of
Exercise Price
$20.12 – $21.65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$24.45 – $28.72 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$29.01 – $31.62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$33.25 – $37.48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$37.89 – $38.90 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
$40.81 – $51.73 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Awards Outstanding

Awards Exercisable

No. of
Options/
SARs

WTD.
Avg.
Remaining
Life

WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price

No. of
Options/
SARS

WTD.
Avg.
Remaining
Life

WTD.
Avg.
Exercise
Price

0.3
0.2
0.3
0.3
0.6
1.0
2.7

5.01
0.21
1.33
2.05
3.59
7.05
4.38

$

$

21.65
24.72
29.16
35.80
38.56
47.32
37.60

0.3
0.2
0.3
0.3
0.6
0.3
2.0

5.01
0.21
1.33
2.05
3.59
5.14
3.20

$

$

21.65
24.72
29.16
35.80
38.56
42.55
33.53

The intrinsic value of the stock option and SAR awards outstanding and exercisable at September 30 were as follows (in 

millions): 

Outstanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Exercisable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2013

47.2
43.4

The grant date fair value of stock option awards are estimated using a binomial model and the assumptions in the following 
table.  Expected market price volatility is based on implied volatilities from traded options on Scotts Miracle-Gro’s common shares 
and historical volatility specific to the common shares.  Historical data, including demographic factors impacting historical exercise 
behavior, is used to estimate stock option exercises and employee terminations within the valuation model.  The risk-free rate for 
periods within the contractual life (normally ten years) of the stock option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at 
the time of grant.  The expected life of stock options is based on historical experience and expectations for grants outstanding. 
No stock options awards were granted in fiscal 2013.  The weighted average assumptions for awards granted in fiscal 2012 and 
2011 are as follows:

Expected market price volatility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Risk-free interest rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected dividend yield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expected life of stock options in years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Estimated weighted-average fair value per stock option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year Ended September 30,

2012

2011

33.2%
1.2%
2.5%
5.96
11.50

31.9%
2.4%
1.9%
5.97
14.06

The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $8.1 million, $23.9 million and $22.4 million during fiscal 2013, 
fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.  Cash received from the exercise of stock options for fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2012 was 
$13.3 million and $17.6 million, respectively.

80

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Restricted share-based awards

Restricted share-based award activity (including restricted stock, restricted stock units and deferred stock units) was as 

follows:

Awards outstanding at September 30, 2010
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2011
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2012
Granted
Vested
Forfeited
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2013

No. of
Shares

WTD. Avg.
Grant Date
Fair Value
per Share

$

840,426
96,235
(136,355)
(103,400)
696,906
138,316
(301,132)
(36,891)
497,199
211,283
(251,855)
(46,976)
409,651

33.52
51.99
38.44
32.76
35.22
47.53
22.25
45.28
45.75
44.80
40.87
53.54
47.36

The total fair value of restricted stock units vested was $10.3 million, $3.1 million and $0.6 million during fiscal 2013, fiscal 
2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.  The total fair value of restricted stock vested was  $3.6 million and $4.6 million during fiscal 
2012 and fiscal 2011, respectively.  The Company has no outstanding restricted stock as of September 30, 2012. 

Performance-based awards

Performance-based award activity was as follows:

Awards outstanding at September 30, 2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Granted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Forfeited . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Awards outstanding at September 30, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NOTE 12.  EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

No. of
Units

WTD. Avg.
Grant Date
Fair Value
per Unit

$

24,200
53,874
(35,774)
—
42,300
114,279
—
(2,670)
153,909
178,321
—
(70,313)
261,917

29.85
51.91
32.57
—
51.73
47.63
—
47.66
45.48
45.06
—
46.62
46.81

Basic earnings per common share are computed by dividing income from continuing operations, income from discontinued 
operations or net income by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding.  Diluted earnings per common share 
are computed by dividing income from continuing operations, income from discontinued operations or net income by the weighted 
average number of common shares outstanding plus all potentially dilutive securities.  Stock options with exercise prices greater 
than the average market price of the underlying common shares are excluded from the computation of diluted earnings per common 
share because they are out-of-the-money and the effect of their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.  The number of common shares 

81

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

covered by out-of-the-money stock options was 0.8 million, 0.7 million and 0.2 million for the years ended September 30, 2013, 
2012  and  2011,  respectively.   The  following  table  presents  information  necessary  to  calculate  basic  and  diluted  earnings  per 
common share.  

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions, except per share data)

Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
BASIC EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:

Weighted-average common shares outstanding
during the period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

DILUTED EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE:

Weighted-average common shares outstanding
during the period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dilutive potential common shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Weighted-average number of common shares
outstanding and dilutive potential common shares . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

161.2
(0.1)
161.1

61.7

2.61

—

2.61

61.7

0.9

62.6

2.58
(0.01)
2.57

$

$

$

$

$

$

113.2
(6.7)
106.5

61.0

1.86
(0.11)
1.75

61.0

1.1

62.1

1.82
(0.11)
1.71

$

$

$

$

$

$

NOTE 13.  INCOME TAXES

The provision (benefit) for income taxes allocated to continuing operations consisted of the following:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

Current:

Federal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Deferred:

Federal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Deferred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Provision for income taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

57.1
7.5
4.5
69.1

22.7
1.1
(0.1)
23.7
92.8

$

$

31.0
6.0
7.2
44.2

23.5
1.3
(0.4)
24.4
68.6

$

$

139.9

28.0

167.9

64.7

2.16

0.44

2.60

64.7

1.5

66.2

2.11

0.43

2.54

66.2
8.3
5.4
79.9

2.2
(0.1)
0.7
2.8
82.7

82

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The domestic and foreign components of income from continuing operations before income taxes were as follows:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

Domestic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Foreign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from continuing operations before income taxes . . . . . . . $

238.3

15.7

254.0

$

$

165.3

16.5

181.8

$

$

205.7

16.9

222.6

A reconciliation of the federal corporate income tax rate and the effective tax rate on income from continuing operations 

before income taxes is summarized below:

Statutory income tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect of foreign operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

State taxes, net of federal benefit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Domestic Production Activities Deduction permanent difference. .

Effect of other permanent differences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Research and Experimentation and other federal tax credits. . . . . .

Resolution of prior tax contingencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effective income tax rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

35.0%

0.8

2.9
(2.1)
0.8
(0.3)
0.2
(0.8)
36.5%

35.0%
(0.5)
3.1
(1.5)
2.4
(0.1)
(0.9)
0.2

37.7%

35.0%
(0.3)
2.8
(2.3)
1.9
(0.2)
0.7
(0.4)
37.2%

Included in “Effect of other permanent differences” in the effective tax rate reconciliation table above are nondeductible 
fines and penalties of $0.4 million, $4.8 million and $7.7 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013, 2012, and 2011 
respectively, from the settlement of previously disclosed U.S. EPA and U.S. DOJ investigations.  The Company does not expect 
to incur additional costs related to these investigations.  

83

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Deferred income taxes arise from temporary differences between financial reporting and tax reporting bases of assets and 
liabilities, and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards for tax purposes.  The components of the deferred income tax assets 
and liabilities were as follows:

DEFERRED TAX ASSETS

Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accrued liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Postretirement benefits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accounts receivable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
State NOL carryovers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign NOL carryovers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign tax credit carryovers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest rate swaps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gross deferred tax assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Valuation allowance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total deferred tax assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES

Property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total deferred tax liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net deferred tax (liability) asset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

$

13.7
59.2
33.7
7.3
1.1
51.6
8.6
6.3
6.0
187.5
(51.5)
136.0

(62.3)
(99.5)
(3.3)
(165.1)
(29.1) $

17.0
61.5
41.2
7.9
1.9
48.2
8.3
11.0
4.2
201.2
(48.4)
152.8

(58.9)
(85.8)
(3.2)
(147.9)
4.9

The net current and non-current components of deferred income taxes recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheets were:

Net current deferred tax assets (classified with prepaid and other assets) . . . . . . . $
Net non-current deferred tax liabilities (classified with other liabilities) . . . . . . . .
Net deferred tax asset (liability) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

September 30,

2013

2012

$

(In millions)
67.1
(96.2)
(29.1) $

76.5
(71.6)
4.9

GAAP requires that a valuation allowance be recorded against a deferred tax asset if it is more likely than not that the tax 
benefit associated with the asset will not be realized in the future.  As shown in the table above, valuation allowances were recorded 
against $51.5 million and $48.4 million of deferred tax assets as of September 30, 2013, and September 30, 2012, respectively. 
Most of these valuation allowances relate to certain foreign net operating losses as explained more fully below.

The Company has elected to treat certain foreign entities as disregarded entities for U.S. tax purposes, which results in their 
net income or loss being recognized currently in the Company’s U.S. tax return.  As such, the tax benefit of net operating losses 
available for foreign statutory tax purposes has already been recognized for U.S. purposes.  Accordingly, a full valuation allowance 
is required on the tax benefit of these net operating losses on global consolidation.  The foreign net operating losses of these foreign 
disregarded entities were $195.7 million at September 30, 2013, the majority of which have indefinite carryforward periods.  The 
statutory tax benefit of these net operating loss carryovers, and related full valuation allowances thereon, amounted to $49.7 million 
and $46.4 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

Foreign net operating losses of certain controlled foreign corporations were $7.2 million as of September 30, 2013, the 
majority of which have indefinite carryforward periods.  Due to a history of losses in these entities, a full valuation allowance has 
also  been  placed  against  the  statutory  tax  benefit  associated  with  these  losses  amounting  to  $1.8  million  and  $1.8  million  at 
September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.

84

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

State net operating losses were $22.6 million as of September 30, 2013, with carryforward periods ranging from 5 to 20 
years.  Any losses not utilized within a specific state’s carryforward period will expire.  Tax benefits associated with state tax 
credits will expire if not utilized and amounted to $0.5 million at both September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.  No valuation 
allowance has been placed against these net operating losses and credits as the Company should fully utilize these within their 
respective carryover periods.

Deferred taxes have not been provided on unremitted earnings of $147.0 million for certain foreign subsidiaries and foreign 
corporate joint ventures as such earnings have been indefinitely reinvested.  These foreign entities held cash and cash equivalents 
of $120.4 million and $118.6 million at September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012, respectively.  Our current plans do not 
demonstrate a need to, nor do we have plans to, repatriate the retained earnings from these subsidiaries as the earnings are indefinitely 
reinvested.  In the future, if we determine it is necessary to repatriate these funds, or we sell or liquidate any of these subsidiaries, 
we may be required to pay associated taxes on the repatriation.  We may also be required to withhold foreign taxes depending on 
the foreign jurisdiction from which the funds are repatriated.  The effective rate of tax on such repatriations may materially differ 
from the federal statutory tax rate and could have a material impact on tax expense in the year of repatriation; however, the Company 
cannot reasonably estimate the amount of such a tax event.

GAAP provides that a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more likely than not that the 
position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the 
technical merits of the position.  The amount recognized is measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% 
likely of being realized upon settlement.

The Company had $6.7 million, $7.0 million and $8.9 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax 
positions at September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively.  Included in the September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 balances were 
$6.7 million, $6.9 million and $7.3 million, respectively, of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would have an impact 
on the effective tax rate.

A reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits is as follows: 

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

Balance at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Additions for tax positions of the current year . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Additions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reductions for tax positions of prior years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Settlements with tax authorities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Expiration of statutes of limitation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Balance at end of year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

7.0
0.3
4.3
(3.8)
(0.4)
(0.7)
6.7

$

$

8.9
1.0
2.9
(4.1)
(0.5)
(1.2)
7.0

$

$

7.8
1.1
1.9
(1.2)
(0.6)
(0.1)
8.9

The Company continues to recognize accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of 
the provision for income taxes.  As of September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, the Company had $1.8 million, $1.8 
million  and  $1.6  million  accrued  for  the  payment  of  interest  that,  if  recognized,  would  impact  the  effective  tax  rate.   As  of 
September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively, the Company had $0.7 million, $0.8 million and $0.7 million accrued for the 
payment of penalties that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate.  For the year ended September 30, 2013, the Company 
recognized $0.1 million of tax interest and tax penalties in its statement of operations.

Scotts Miracle-Gro or one of its subsidiaries files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state, local 
and foreign jurisdictions.  With few exceptions, which are discussed below, the Company is no longer subject to examinations by 
these tax authorities for fiscal years prior to 2010.  The Company is currently under examination by certain foreign and U.S. state 
and local tax authorities.  Regarding the foreign jurisdictions, an audit is currently underway in France for fiscal years 2010 through 
2012.  Audits closed during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 for Austria, Belgium and Canada with no material impact 
on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.  In regard to the U.S. state and local audits, 
the tax periods under examinations are limited to fiscal years 1997 through 2011.  In addition to these aforementioned audits, 
certain other tax deficiency notices and refund claims for previous years remain unresolved.

The Company currently anticipates that few of its open and active audits will be resolved in the next 12 months.  The 
Company is unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate as to when or if cash settlements with taxing authorities may occur. 

85

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Although audit outcomes and the timing of audit payments are subject to significant uncertainty, the Company does not anticipate 
that the resolution of these tax matters or any events related thereto will result in a material change to its consolidated financial 
position, results of operations or cash flows.

On September 13, 2013, the United States Treasury and Internal Revenue Service issued final tangible personal property 
regulations that broadly apply to amounts paid to acquire, produce or improve tangible property, as well as dispositions of such 
property.  In review of these regulations, the Company has concluded that there is no material impact on its consolidated financial 
position, results of operations or cash flows.

Management judgment is required in determining tax provisions and evaluating tax positions.  Management believes its tax 
positions and related provisions reflected in the consolidated financial statements are fully supportable and appropriate.  The 
Company established reserves for additional income taxes that may become due if the tax positions are challenged and not sustained, 
and as such, the Company’s tax provision includes the impact of recording reserves and changes thereto.

NOTE 14.  DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

The Company is exposed to market risks, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates and commodity prices. 
To manage a portion of the volatility related to these exposures, the Company enters into various financial transactions.  The 
utilization of these financial transactions is governed by policies covering acceptable counterparty exposure, instrument types and 
other hedging practices.  The Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for speculative trading purposes.

Exchange Rate Risk Management

The  Company  periodically  uses  foreign  currency  forward  contracts  to  manage  the  exchange  rate  risk  associated  with 
intercompany loans with foreign subsidiaries that are denominated in local currencies.  At September 30, 2013, the notional amount 
of outstanding foreign currency forward contracts was $80.4 million, with a negative fair value of $2.1 million.  At September 30, 
2012, the notional amount of outstanding foreign currency swap contracts was $61.8 million, with a negative fair value of $1.0 
million.  The unrealized loss on the foreign currency forward contracts approximates the unrealized gain on the intercompany 
loans recognized by the Company’s lending subsidiaries.  The contracts will mature over the next fiscal year.

Interest Rate Risk Management

The Company enters into interest rate swap agreements as a means to hedge its variable interest rate risk on debt instruments. 
The fair values are reflected in the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Net amounts to be received or paid under the swap 
agreements are reflected as adjustments to interest expense.  Since the interest rate swap agreements have been designated as 
hedging instruments, unrealized gains or losses resulting from adjusting these swaps to fair value are recorded as elements of 
accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) within the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

At September 30, 2013 and 2012, the Company had outstanding interest rate swap agreements with major financial institutions 
that effectively converted a portion of the Company’s variable-rate debt to a fixed rate.  The swap agreements had a total U.S. dollar 
equivalent  notional  amount  of  $1,100.0  million  and  $700.0  million  at  September 30,  2013  and  2012  respectively.    Refer  to 
“NOTE 10.  DEBT” for the terms of the swap agreements outstanding at 2013.  Included in the AOCI balance at September 30, 
2013 is a loss of $5.0 million related to interest rate swap agreements that is expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next 
12 months, consistent with the timing of the underlying hedged transactions.

Commodity Price Risk Management

The Company had outstanding derivative contracts at September 30, 2013 designed to fix the price of a portion of its projected 
future urea requirements.  The contracts are designated as hedges of the Company’s exposure to future cash flow fluctuations 
associated with the cost of urea.  The objective of the hedges is to mitigate the earnings and cash flow volatility attributable to the 
risk of changing prices.  Unrealized gains or losses in the fair value of these contracts are recorded to the AOCI component of 
shareholders’ equity.  Realized gains or losses remain as a component of AOCI until the related inventory is sold.  Upon sale of 
the underlying inventory, the gain or loss is reclassified to cost of sales.  Included in the AOCI balance at September 30, 2013 was 
a loss of $1.0 million related to urea derivatives that is expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next 12 months, consistent 
with the timing of the underlying hedged transactions.

Periodically, the Company also uses derivatives to partially mitigate the effect of fluctuating diesel and gasoline costs on 
operating results.  Any such derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment in accordance with GAAP are recorded 
at fair value, with unrealized gains and losses on open contracts and realized gains or losses on settled contracts recorded as an 
element of cost of sales.  Unrealized gains or losses in the fair value of derivative contracts that do qualify for hedge accounting 

86

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (expense), except for any ineffective portion of the change in fair value, 
which is immediately recorded in earnings.  For the effective portion of the change in fair value, realized gains or losses remain 
as a component of AOCI until the related fuel is consumed.  Upon consumption of the fuel, the gain or loss is reclassified to cost 
of sales.  Included in the AOCI balance at September 30, 2013 was an immaterial gain related to fuel derivatives that is expected 
to be reclassified to earnings during the next 12 months, consistent with the timing of the underlying hedged transactions.

The Company had the following outstanding commodity contracts that were entered into to hedge forecasted purchases: 

September 30,

2013

2012

Commodity
Urea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diesel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gasoline. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heating Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

49,500 tons
3,528,000 gallons
630,000 gallons
2,940,000 gallons

34,500 tons
6,552,000 gallons
224,000 gallons
5,208,000 gallons

Fair Values of Derivative Instruments

The following table summarizes the fair values of the Company’s derivative instruments and the respective lines in which 

they were recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30:

Assets / (Liabilities)

2013

2012

Derivatives Designated As Hedging Instruments

Balance Sheet Location

Interest rate swap agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other assets

Other current liabilities

Other liabilities

Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prepaid and other assets
Other current liabilities

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments . . . . . . .

Derivatives Not Designated As Hedging Instruments

Balance Sheet Location
Foreign currency forward contracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Other current liabilities
Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Prepaid and other assets
Other current liabilities

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. . . .
Total derivatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fair Value

$

(In millions)
3.7
(8.3)
(12.1)
0.1
(2.0)
(18.6) $

(2.1) $
—
(0.3)

(2.4) $
(21.0) $

—
(8.2)
(20.6)
1.0

—
(27.8)

(1.0)
1.0

—

—
(27.8)

$

$

$

$
$

87

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The effect of derivative instruments on AOCI and the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the year ended September 

30 was as follows: 

Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships

Interest rate swap agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

$

Amount of  Gain/(Loss)
Recognized in AOCI

2013

2012

(In millions)
(1.0) $
(2.3)
(3.3) $

(10.9)
1.6
(9.3)

Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships

 Reclassified From AOCI Into

Statement of Operations

Amount of Gain/(Loss)

2013

2012

Interest rate swap agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cost of sales

Interest expense

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Derivatives not Designated As Hedging Instruments

Recognized in Statement of Operations

Foreign currency forward contracts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cost of sales

Interest expense

Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NOTE 15.  FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

$

$

$

$

(In millions)
(8.4) $
—
(8.4) $

(10.0)
1.6
(8.4)

Amount of Gain/(Loss)

2013

2012

$

(In millions)
6.7
(0.6)
6.1

$

(6.6)
2.3
(4.3)

Fair value is defined as the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) 
in the principal or the most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at 
the measurement date.  A three-level fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value.  The hierarchy requires 
entities to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs.  The three levels of inputs used to 
measure fair value are as follows:

Level 1—Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

Level 2—Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities 
in active markets; quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable 
or can be corroborated by observable market data.

Level 3—Unobservable inputs that are supported by little or no market activity and that are significant to the fair value of 
the assets or liabilities.  This includes pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies and similar techniques that use significant 
unobservable inputs.

The following describes the valuation methodologies used for financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a 

recurring basis, as well as the general classification within the valuation hierarchy.

Derivatives

Derivatives consist of foreign currency, interest rate and commodity derivative instruments.  Foreign currency forward 
contracts are valued using observable forward rates in commonly quoted intervals for the full term of the contracts.  Interest rate 
swap agreements are valued based on the present value of the estimated future net cash flows using implied rates in the applicable 
yield curve as of the valuation date.  Commodity contracts are measured using observable commodity exchange prices in active 
markets.

These derivative instruments are classified within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy and are included within other assets 
and other liabilities in our Consolidated Balance Sheets, except for derivative instruments expected to be settled within the next 
12 months, which are included within prepaid and other assets and other current liabilities.

88

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Cash equivalents

Cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less.  The carrying value 

of these cash equivalents approximates fair value due to their short-term maturities.

Other

Other financial assets consist of investment securities in non-qualified retirement plan assets.  These securities are valued 

using observable market prices in active markets.

The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at 

September 30, 2013:

Quoted Prices in  
Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable  
Inputs
(Level 2)

Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

(In millions)

Total

Assets
Cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Derivatives

Interest rate swap agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Liabilities
Derivatives

Interest rate swap agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Foreign currency forward contracts . . . . . . . . . . .
Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

83.9

$

— $

—
—
7.0
90.9

$

— $
—
—
— $

3.7
0.1
—
3.8

$

(20.4) $
(2.1)
(2.3)
(24.8) $

— $

—
—
—
— $

— $
—
—
— $

83.9

3.7
0.1
7.0
94.7

(20.4)
(2.1)
(2.3)
(24.8)

The following presents the Company’s non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis 
at September 30, 2013 and describes the valuation methodologies used for non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair 
value, as well as the general classification within the valuation hierarchy:

Quoted Prices in  
Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable  
Inputs
(Level 2)

Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total
Losses

Global Consumer insect repellent technology. . . . . . . $
Ortho® brands and sub-brands. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

— $

—

(In millions)
— $

—

— $

126.0

4.3

11.6

The intangible asset related to the insect repellent technology was determined to be fully impaired based on the estimated 
future cash flows associated with the insect repellent technology in relation to its carrying value.  Also, as a result of the Company's 
annual impairment review performed in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company recognized an impairment charge for a 
non-recurring fair value adjustment of $11.6 million within the Global Consumer segment related to the Ortho® brand and certain 
sub-brands of Ortho®.  Certain finite-lived sub-brands of Ortho® were determined to be fully impaired.  The remaining fair value 
of the indefinite-lived Ortho® brand and sub-brands is $126.0 million.  The fair value was calculated based upon the evaluation 
of the historical performance and future growth of the Ortho® business using a royalty savings methodology similar to that employed 
when the  associated business was acquired with updated estimates of sales, cash flow and profitability.

89

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The following table presents the Company’s financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis at 

September 30, 2012: 

Quoted Prices in  
Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable  
Inputs
(Level 2)

Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

(In millions)

Total

Assets
Cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Derivatives

Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Liabilities
Derivatives

Interest rate swap agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Commodity hedging instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

41.1

$

— $

—
6.4
47.5

$

— $
—
— $

2.0
—
2.0

$

(28.8) $
(1.0)
(29.8) $

— $

—
—
— $

— $
—
— $

41.1

2.0
6.4
49.5

(28.8)
(1.0)
(29.8)

The following presents the Company’s non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis 
at September 30, 2012 and describes the valuation methodologies used for non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair 
value, as well as the general classification within the valuation hierarchy:

Quoted Prices in  
Active
Markets for 
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable  
Inputs
(Level 2)

Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total
Losses

Assets of MAT 28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

— $

(In millions)
— $

1.2

$

5.3

Certain property, plant and equipment and other assets were written down to their fair value, resulting in an impairment 
charge  of  $5.3  million,  which  was  included  in  earnings  for  the  period.   The  value  of  the  property,  plant  and  equipment  was 
determined using the market approach, which is a valuation technique based on what other purchasers and sellers in the market 
have agreed to as prices for comparable assets, adjusted for such factors as age, condition and location of the respective assets 
being valued.  The intangible asset was determined to be fully impaired based on estimated future cash flows associated with this 
active ingredient in relation to its carrying value.

90

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

NOTE 16. OPERATING LEASES

The  Company  leases  certain  property  and  equipment  from  third  parties  under  various  non-cancelable  operating  lease 
agreements. Certain lease agreements contain renewal and purchase options. The lease agreements generally require that the 
Company pay taxes, insurance and maintenance expenses related to the leased assets. Future minimum lease payments for non-
cancelable operating leases at September 30, 2013, were as follows (in millions):

2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total future minimum lease payments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

47.0
37.8
28.3
17.4
13.4
35.1
179.0

The Company also leases certain vehicles (primarily cars and light trucks) under agreements that are cancelable after the 
first year, but typically continue on a month-to-month basis until canceled by the Company.  The vehicle leases and certain other 
non-cancelable operating leases contain residual value guarantees that create a contingent obligation on the part of the Company 
to compensate the lessor if the leased asset cannot be sold for an amount in excess of a specified minimum value at the conclusion 
of the lease term.  If all such vehicle leases had been canceled as of September 30, 2013, the Company’s residual value guarantee 
would have approximated $9.4 million.

Other residual value guarantee amounts that apply at the conclusion of non-cancelable lease terms are as follows:

Amount of
Guarantee

(In millions)

Lease
Termination Date

Scotts LawnService® vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Corporate aircraft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

0.2
3.9

2020
2016

Rent expense for fiscal 2013, fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011 totaled $61.9 million, $69.0 million and $67.2 million, respectively.

NOTE 17.  COMMITMENTS

The Company has the following unconditional purchase obligations due during each of the next five fiscal years that have 

not been recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at September 30, 2013 (in millions):

2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Thereafter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

114.3
54.3
21.4
11.6
9.4
0.3
211.3

Purchase obligations primarily represent commitments for materials used in the Company’s manufacturing processes, as 
well as commitments for warehouse services, grass seed and out-sourced information services.  In addition, the Company leases 
certain property and equipment from third parties under various non-cancelable operating lease agreements.  Future minimum 
lease payments for non-cancelable operating leases not included above are included in “NOTE 16.  OPERATING LEASES.”

91

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

NOTE 18.  CONTINGENCIES

Management regularly evaluates the Company’s contingencies, including various lawsuits and claims which arise in the 
normal course of business, product and general liabilities, workers’ compensation, property losses and other liabilities for which 
the Company is self-insured or retains a high exposure limit.  Self-insurance reserves are established based on actuarial loss 
estimates  for  specific  individual  claims  plus  actuarially  estimated  amounts  for  incurred  but  not  reported  claims  and  adverse 
development factors applied to existing claims.  Legal costs incurred in connection with the resolution of claims, lawsuits and 
other contingencies are expensed as incurred.  In the opinion of management, its assessment of contingencies is reasonable and 
related reserves, in the aggregate, are adequate; however, there can be no assurance that final resolution of these matters will not 
have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Regulatory Matters

At  September 30,  2013,  $4.0  million  was  accrued  in  the  “Other  liabilities”  line  in  the  Consolidated  Balance  Sheet  for 
environmental actions, the majority of which is for site remediation.  The amounts accrued are believed to be adequate to cover 
such known environmental exposures based on current facts and estimates of likely outcomes.  Although it is reasonably possible 
that the costs to resolve such known environmental exposures will exceed the amounts accrued, any variation from accrued amounts 
is not expected to be material.

Other

The Company has been named as a defendant in a number of cases alleging injuries that the lawsuits claim resulted from 
exposure to asbestos-containing products, apparently based on the Company’s historic use of vermiculite in certain of its products. 
In many of these cases, the complaints are not specific about the plaintiffs’ contacts with the Company or its products.  The 
Company believes that the claims against it are without merit and is vigorously defending against them.  It is not currently possible 
to reasonably estimate a probable loss, if any, associated with these cases and, accordingly, no reserves have been recorded in the 
Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements.  The Company is reviewing agreements and policies that may provide insurance 
coverage or indemnity as to these claims and is pursuing coverage under some of these agreements and policies, although there 
can be no assurance of the results of these efforts.  There can be no assurance that these cases, whether as a result of adverse 
outcomes or as a result of significant defense costs, will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results 
of operations or cash flows.

In connection with the sale of wild bird food products that were the subject of a voluntary recall in 2008, the Company has 
been named as a defendant in four putative class actions filed on and after June 27, 2012, which have now been consolidated in 
the United States District Court for the Southern District of California as In re Morning Song Bird Food Litigation, Lead Case 
No. 3:12-cv-01592-JAH-RBB.  The plaintiffs allege various statutory and common law claims associated with the Company's 
sale of wild bird food products and a plea agreement entered into in previously pending government proceedings associated with 
such sales.  The plaintiffs allege, among other things, a purported class action on behalf of all persons and entities in the United 
States who purchased certain bird food products.  The plaintiffs seek monetary damages (actual, compensatory, consequential, 
punitive, and treble); reimbursement, restitution, and disgorgement for benefits unjustly conferred; injunctive and declaratory 
relief; pre-judgment and post-judgment interest; and costs and attorneys' fees.  The Company intends to vigorously defend the 
consolidated action.  Given the early stages of the action, the Company cannot make a determination as to whether it could have 
a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows and the Company has not recorded any 
accruals with respect thereto.

The Company is involved in other lawsuits and claims which arise in the normal course of business.  These claims individually 
and in the aggregate are not expected to result in a material effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or 
cash flows.

NOTE 19.  CONCENTRATIONS OF CREDIT RISK

The Company maintains cash depository accounts with major financial institutions around the world and invests in high 
quality, short-term liquid investments.  Such investments are made only in investments issued by highly rated institutions.  These 
investments mature within three months and have not historically incurred any losses.

Trade accounts receivable are exposed to a concentration of credit risk with retailers principally located in the United States. 
The Company's retail customers include home centers, mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, large hardware chains, independent 
hardware stores, nurseries, garden centers and food and drug stores.  Concentrations of net sales and accounts receivable by segment 
in the United States as a percentage of consolidated net sales and accounts receivable at September 30 were as follows:

92

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Percentage of Net Sales

Percentage of Gross Accounts
Receivable at September 30,

2013

2012

2011

2013

2012

Global Consumer segment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scotts LawnService® segment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total Concentration in United States. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

73%

9%

82%

73%

9%

82%

72%

8%

80%

63%

9%

72%

67%

8%

75%

The remainder of the Company’s net sales and accounts receivable at September 30, 2013, 2012 and 2011 were generated 
from customers located outside of the United States, primarily retailers, distributors and nurseries in Europe, Canada and Australia. 
No concentrations of these customers or individual customers within this group accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s 
net sales and accounts receivable for any period presented above.

The Company’s three largest customers are reported within the Global Consumer segment and are the only customers that 
individually represent more than 10% of reported consolidated net sales and accounts receivable for each of the last three fiscal 
years.  These three customers accounted for the following percentages of Global Consumer segment net sales for the fiscal years 
ended September 30: 

Home Depot. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lowe's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Walmart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34%
18%
13%

32%
17%
14%

31%
17%
14%

Accounts receivable for these three largest customers as a percentage of consolidated accounts receivable were 56% and 

Percentage of Net Sales

2013

2012

2011

52% for September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

NOTE 20.  OTHER INCOME, NET

Other (income) expense consisted of the following:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

2011

Royalty income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Franchise fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Foreign currency (gains) losses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

(4.7) $
(0.3)
0.4
(5.4)
(10.0) $

(4.9) $
(0.3)
(0.7)
3.0
(2.9) $

(4.3)
(0.3)
1.4
2.3
(0.9)

NOTE 21.  SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Company divides its business into the following segments — Global Consumer and Scotts LawnService®.  This division 
of reportable segments is consistent with how the segments report to and are managed by the chief operating decision maker of 
the Company.  The Company has made reclassifications to prior period segment amounts as a result of the change in internal 
organization  structure  associated  with  the  disposal  of  the  Company's  professional  seed  business,  which  is  now  reported  in 
discontinued operations.  For additional information regarding the sale, refer to “NOTE 2.  DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS.”

The Global Consumer segment consists of the U.S. Consumer and International Consumer business groups.  The business 
groups comprising this segment manufacture, market and sell dry, granular slow-release lawn fertilizers, combination lawn fertilizer 
and control products, grass seed, spreaders, water-soluble, liquid and continuous release garden and indoor plant foods, plant care 
products, potting, garden and lawn soils, mulches and other growing media products, wild bird food, pesticide and rodenticide 
products.  Products are marketed to mass merchandisers, home centers, large hardware chains, warehouse clubs, distributors, 
garden centers and grocers in the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America and Australia.

93

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

The Scotts LawnService® segment provides residential and commercial lawn fertilization, disease and insect control and 
other related services such as core aeration, tree and shrub fertilization and limited pest control services through Company-owned 
branches and independent franchisees in the United States.

Segment  performance  is  evaluated  based  on  several  factors,  including  income  from  continuing  operations  before 
amortization, product registration and recall costs, and impairment, restructuring and other charges, which is not a GAAP measure. 
Senior management of the Company uses this measure of operating profit to evaluate segment performance because the Company 
believes this measure is the most indicative of performance trends and the overall earnings potential of each segment.  Total assets 
reported for the Company’s operating segments include the intangible assets for the acquired businesses within those segments. 
The  accounting  policies  of  the  segments  are  the  same  as  those  described  in  the  “NOTE 1.    SUMMARY  OF  SIGNIFICANT 
ACCOUNTING POLICIES.”

Corporate & Other consists of the Company’s revenues and expenses associated with the Company’s supply agreements 
with ICL and the amortization related to the Roundup® Marketing Agreement, as well as corporate, general and administrative 
expenses and certain other income/expense items not allocated to the business segments.  Corporate & Other assets primarily 
include deferred financing and debt issuance costs and corporate intangible assets, as well as deferred tax assets. 

The following table presents summarized financial information concerning the Company’s reportable segments:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions)

Net sales:

Global Consumer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Scotts LawnService®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Segment total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Corporate & Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income from continuing operations before income taxes:

Global Consumer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Scotts LawnService®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Segment total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Corporate & Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Intangible asset amortization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Costs related to refinancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Consolidated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Depreciation and amortization:

Global Consumer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Scotts LawnService®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate & Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Capital expenditures:

Global Consumer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Scotts LawnService®. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate & Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

2,527.5

$

2,539.2

$

257.8

2,785.3

31.2

2,816.5

406.4

28.7

435.1
(91.2)
(10.4)
—
(20.3)
—
(59.2)
254.0

48.7

4.0

13.4

66.1

53.3

3.1

3.7

$

$

$

$

$

$

245.8

2,785.0

41.1

2,826.1

338.3

27.0

365.3
(96.3)
(10.1)
(8.2)
(7.1)
—
(61.8)
181.8

44.2

4.1

14.1

62.4

64.6

1.9

2.9

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

60.1

$

69.4

$

94

2,533.2

235.6

2,768.8

30.9

2,799.7

425.0

25.9

450.9
(95.0)
(10.6)
(14.6)
(55.9)
(1.2)
(51.0)
222.6

43.6

3.4

13.8

60.8

59.0

3.0

8.1

70.1

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Total assets:

Global Consumer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Scotts LawnService® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Corporate & Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

September 30,

2013

2012

(In millions)

1,564.2
189.8
183.2
1,937.2

$

$

1,676.4
181.5
216.5
2,074.4

The following table presents net sales by product category for the Global Consumer segment:

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

Net sales:

Lawn care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34%

34%

34%

Growing media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Roundup® Marketing Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wild bird food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other, primarily gardening and landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

34

14
5

2

11

33

14
6

2

11

31

13
5

3

14

Segment total product sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

100%

100%

100%

The following table presents net sales and long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment and finite-lived intangibles) by 

geographic area: 

Net sales:

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Long-lived assets:

United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
International . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

Year Ended September 30,

2013

2012

2011

(In millions)

2,332.4
484.1
2,816.5

419.9
64.5
484.4

$

$

$

$

2,340.9
485.2
2,826.1

432.0
70.2
502.2

$

$

$

$

2,294.4
505.3
2,799.7

411.3
69.8
481.1

95

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

NOTE 22.  QUARTERLY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

The following is a summary of the unaudited quarterly results of operations. 

FISCAL 2013
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from discontinued operations . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic income (loss) per common share:

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax .
Basic net income (loss) per common share . . . . . . . . . . $

Common shares used in basic EPS calculation . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted income (loss) per common share:

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax .
Diluted net income (loss) per common share . . . . . . . . . $

Common shares and dilutive potential common shares used
in diluted EPS calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
FISCAL 2012
Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax. . . . .

Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Basic income (loss) per common share:

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations. . . . . . . . . .
Basic net income (loss) per common share . . . . . . . . . . $

Common shares used in basic EPS calculation . . . . . . . . . . .
Diluted income (loss) per common share:

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income (loss) from discontinued operations. . . . . . . . . .
Diluted net income (loss) per common share . . . . . . . . . $

Common shares and dilutive potential common shares used
in diluted EPS calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

First
Quarter

Second
Quarter

Third
Quarter

Fourth
Quarter

Full Year

(In millions, except per share data)

205.8

$ 1,019.6

$ 1,148.1

$

443.0

$ 2,816.5

31.1
(68.3)
0.6
(67.7)

(1.11) $
0.01
(1.10) $
61.4

(1.11) $
0.01
(1.10) $

61.4

378.7

99.9

0.1

100.0

1.62

—

1.62

61.6

1.60

—

1.60

62.4

$

$

$

$

441.8

148.2

—

148.2

2.40

—

2.40

61.7

2.37

—

2.37

62.6

$

$

$

$

130.8
(18.6)
(0.8)
(19.4)

(0.30) $
(0.01)
(0.31) $
62.0

982.4

161.2
(0.1)
161.1

2.61

—

2.61

61.7

(0.30) $
(0.01)
(0.31) $

2.58
(0.01)
2.57

62.0

62.6

199.6

$ 1,170.4

$ 1,054.9

$

401.2

$ 2,826.1

25.6
(73.1)
(0.8)
(73.9)

(1.20) $
(0.01)
(1.21) $
60.9

(1.20) $
(0.01)
(1.21) $

60.9

461.7

126.5

0.7

127.2

2.08

0.01

2.09

60.9

2.04

0.01

2.05

62.0

$

$

$

$

369.0

96.4
(3.1)
93.3

1.58
(0.05)
1.53

61.1

1.55
(0.05)
1.50

$

$

$

$

105.0
(36.6)
(3.5)
(40.1)

(0.60) $
(0.06)
(0.66) $
61.2

(0.60) $
(0.06)
(0.66) $

961.3

113.2
(6.7)
106.5

1.86
(0.11)
1.75

61.0

1.82
(0.11)
1.71

62.2

61.2

62.1

Common share equivalents, such as share-based awards, are excluded from the diluted loss per common share calculation 
in periods where there is a loss from continuing operations because the effect of their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.  The 
Company’s business is highly seasonal, with approximately 75% of net sales occurring in the second and third fiscal quarters.

Unusual items during fiscal 2013 consisted of impairment, restructuring and other.  These items are reflected in the quarterly 
financial information as follows: first quarter impairment, restructuring and other of $(0.4) million; second quarter impairment, 
restructuring and other of 0.1 million in cost of sales and $0.1 million in SG&A; third quarter impairment, restructuring and other 

96

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

of 1.5 million in cost of sales and  $7.0 million in SG&A; and fourth quarter impairment, restructuring and other of 0.6 million 
in cost of sales and $11.4 million in SG&A.   

Unusual items during fiscal 2012 consisted of product registration and recall charges and impairment, restructuring and 
other.  These items are reflected in the quarterly financial information as follows: first quarter product registration and recall 
charges of $0.3 million and impairment, restructuring and other of $2.5 million; second quarter product registration and recall 
charges of $3.5 million and impairment, restructuring and other of $5.0 million; third quarter product registration and recall charges 
of $4.0 million and an adjustment to impairment, restructuring and other of $(0.4) million; and fourth quarter product registration 
and recall charges of $0.4 million.  In  the  fourth quarter  of  fiscal year 2012, the Company completed  the wind  down  of the 
Company's professional seed business.  As a result, effective in its fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company classified its results 
of operations for all periods presented to reflect the professional seed business as a discontinued operation.  The company recorded 
a $0.4 million impairment charge related to the investment in Turf-Seed (Europe) Limited in fiscal 2012.  In addition, in the third 
quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company recorded an adjustment of $1.7 million as a change in estimate on the tax due on the sale of 
Global Pro.

NOTE 23.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS AND NON-GUARANTORS

The 7.25% and 6.625% Senior Notes (collectively, the “Senior Notes”) issued by Scotts Miracle-Gro on January 14, 2010 
and December 16, 2010, respectively, are guaranteed by certain of its domestic subsidiaries and, therefore, the Company has 
disclosed condensed, consolidating financial information in accordance with SEC Regulation S-X Rule 3-10, Financial Statements 
of Guarantors and Issuers of Guaranteed Securities Registered or Being Registered.  The following 100% directly or indirectly 
owned subsidiaries fully and unconditionally guarantee the Senior Notes on a joint and several basis: EG Systems, Inc., dba Scotts 
LawnService®;  Gutwein  &  Co.,  Inc.;  Hyponex  Corporation;  Miracle-Gro  Lawn  Products,  Inc.;  OMS  Investments,  Inc.;  Rod 
McLellan Company; Sanford Scientific, Inc.; Scotts Temecula Operations, LLC; Scotts Manufacturing Company; Scotts Products 
Co.; Scotts Professional Products Co.; Scotts-Sierra Investments LLC; SMG Growing Media, Inc.; SMGM LLC; Swiss Farms 
Products, Inc.; and The Scotts Company LLC (collectively, the “Guarantors”).  SMGM LLC was added as a Guarantor of the 
Senior Notes on September 30, 2013.  Accordingly, SMGM LLC has been classified as a Guarantor for all periods presented in 
the  condensed,  consolidating  financial  information  accompanying  this  Note  23.    SMG  Brands,  Inc.  was  merged  into  OMS 
Investments., Inc. effective September 27, 2013.

The following information presents condensed, consolidating Statements of Operations, Statement of Comprehensive Income 
and Statements of Cash Flows for each of the three years ended September 30, 2013, and condensed, consolidating Balance Sheets 
as of September 30, 2013 and September 30, 2012.  The consolidating financial information presents, in separate columns, financial 
information  for:  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  on  a  Parent-only  basis,  carrying  its  investment  in  subsidiaries  under  the  equity  method; 
Guarantors on a combined basis, carrying investments in subsidiaries which do not guarantee the debt (collectively, the “Non-
Guarantors”) under the equity method; Non-Guarantors on a combined basis; and eliminating entries.  The eliminating entries 
primarily reflect intercompany transactions, such as interest expense, accounts receivable and payable, short and long-term debt, 
and the elimination of equity investments and income in subsidiaries.  Because the Parent is obligated to pay the unpaid principal 
amount and interest on all amounts borrowed by the Guarantors or Non-Guarantors under the credit facility (and was obligated to 
pay the unpaid principal amount and interest on all amounts borrowed by the Guarantors and Non-Guarantors under the previous 
senior secured five-year revolving loan facility), the borrowings and related interest expense for the loans outstanding of the 
Guarantors and Non-Guarantors are also presented in the accompanying Parent-only financial information, and are then eliminated.

97

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Operations
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 
(in millions)

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost of sales - impairment, restructuring and other. . . . . . . .

Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating expenses:

Selling, general and administrative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equity income in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other non-operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income
taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations . .

Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Parent

Subsidiary
Guarantors

Non-
Guarantors

Eliminations

Consolidated

— $ 2,317.4

$

499.1

$

— $ 2,816.5

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
(180.9)
(20.4)
52.4

148.9
(12.2)
161.1

—

161.1

$

1,480.4

—

837.0

516.8

11.2
(6.9)
315.9

1.3

—

25.2

289.4

106.7

182.7
(0.1)
182.6

351.5

2.2

145.4

144.3

6.9
(3.1)
(2.7)
—

—

2.0

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

179.6

20.4
(20.4)

(4.7)
(1.7)
(3.0)
—
(3.0) $

(179.6)
—
(179.6)
—
(179.6) $

$

1,831.9

2.2

982.4

661.1

18.1
(10.0)
313.2

—

—

59.2

254.0

92.8

161.2
(0.1)
161.1

98

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 
(In millions)

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

Net foreign currency translation adjustment

Net change in derivatives

Net change in pension and other post retirement
benefits

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

Comprehensive income

Parent

$

161.1

Subsidiary
Guarantors
182.6
$

Non-
Guarantors
$

(3.0) $

Eliminations Consolidated
161.1

(179.6) $

—

7.2

—

7.2

—
(2.1)

10.6

8.5

$

168.3

$

191.1

$

(5.2)
—

(1.0)
(6.2)
(9.2) $

—

—

—

—
(179.6) $

(5.2)
5.1

9.6

9.5

170.6

99

NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY
OPERATING ACTIVITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets . . . . . . . .

Investments in property, plant and equipment . . .

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates . . . . . . . .

Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash
acquired. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash used in investing activities . . . . . . . .

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of
credit and term loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Repayments under revolving and bank lines of
credit and term loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Payments on seller notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Excess tax benefits from share-based payment
arrangements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash received from exercise of stock options . . .

Intercompany financing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash . . . . . . . . . . .

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents. . . . . . . . . .

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year. . . . . . . . . . . $

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 
(in millions)

Parent

Subsidiary
Guarantors

Non-
Guarantors

Eliminations

Consolidated

(18.0) $

245.9

$

114.1

$

— $

342.0

—

—

—

—

—

0.2
(44.6)

(4.5)

(3.2)
(52.1)

3.4
(15.5)

—

—
(12.1)

—

1,130.4

344.4

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

3.6
(60.1)

(4.5)

(3.2)
(64.2)

1,474.8

(1,682.1)
(87.8)
(0.8)

2.0

13.3

—

(280.6)
0.7
(2.1)
131.9

(603.6)
—

—

—

—

154.4

(104.8)
0.7
(2.1)
129.3

$

127.2

$

— $

129.8

—
(87.8)
—

(1,078.5)
—
(0.8)

—

13.3

92.5

18.0

—

—

—

— $

2.0

—
(246.9)

(193.8)
—

—

2.6

2.6

100

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of September 30, 2013 
(in millions)

Parent

ASSETS

Subsidiary
Guarantors

Non-
Guarantors

Eliminations

Consolidated

— $

2.6

$

127.2

$

— $

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts receivable, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Accounts receivable pledged . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Prepaid and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Property, plant and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Intangible assets, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equity investment in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
22.4

317.1

119.7

106.7

247.2

76.4

552.6

377.9

314.4

244.8
19.5

—

—

86.9

—

77.7

36.6

328.4

44.4

0.7

39.6
26.5

—

—

$ 1,509.2

$

439.6

Intercompany assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

725.7
Total assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,065.2

—
$ (1,076.8) $ 1,937.2

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Current liabilities:

Current portion of debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total current liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Long-term debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equity investment in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Intercompany liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

— $

—

16.0

16.0

327.0

11.7

—

—

87.3

83.9

183.4

354.6

67.9

213.3

173.3

652.1

Total liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

354.7

1,461.2

53.8

80.3

139.2

10.2

47.8

—

146.6

343.8

95.8

$

5.1

$

— $

48.0

$ 1,509.2

$

439.6

710.5
$ (1,076.8) $ 1,937.2

129.8

206.6

106.7

324.9

113.0

881.0

422.3

315.1

284.4
34.4

—

92.4

137.7

279.7

509.8

478.1

238.8

—

—

1,226.7

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
(34.0)
(317.1)
(725.7)

—

—

—

73.0
(34.0)
(173.3)
(798.7)
(933.0)
(143.8)

Total shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

710.5
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity. . . . . . . . . $ 1,065.2

101

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Operations
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 
(in millions)

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cost of sales - product registration and recall matters. . . . . .

Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Operating expenses:

Selling, general and administrative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equity income in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other non-operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income
taxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations . .

Income (loss) from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net income (loss) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Parent

Subsidiary
Guarantors

Non-
Guarantors

Eliminations

Consolidated

— $ 2,320.9

$

505.2

$

— $ 2,826.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
(126.4)
(24.5)
56.5

94.4
(12.1)
106.5

—

106.5

$

1,511.2

0.4

809.3

552.9

7.9

7.8
(1.1)
241.8

1.6

—

25.4

214.8

81.7

133.1
(6.7)
126.4

353.2

—

152.0

152.8
(0.8)
—
(1.8)
1.8

—

—

4.4

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

124.8

24.5
(24.5)

(2.6)
(1.0)
(1.6)
—
(1.6) $

(124.8)
—
(124.8)
—
(124.8) $

$

1,864.4

0.4

961.3

705.7

7.1

7.8
(2.9)
243.6

—

—

61.8

181.8

68.6

113.2
(6.7)
106.5

102

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 
(In millions)

Net income (loss)

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

Net foreign currency translation adjustment

Net change in derivatives

Net change in pension and other post retirement
benefits

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

Comprehensive income (loss)

Parent

$

106.5

Subsidiary
Guarantors
126.4
$

Non-
Guarantors
$

(1.6) $

Eliminations Consolidated
106.5

(124.8) $

—

0.1

—

0.1

$

106.6

$

—
(1.0)

(1.2)
(2.2)
124.2

$

2.3

—

(9.5)
(7.2)
(8.8) $

—

—

—

—
(124.8) $

2.3
(0.9)

(10.7)
(9.3)
97.2

103

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 
(in millions)

NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY
OPERATING ACTIVITIES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets . . . . . . . .

Investments in property, plant and equipment . . .

Investments in acquired businesses, net of cash
acquired. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash used in investing activities . . . . . . .

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of
credit and term loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Repayments under revolving and bank lines of
credit and term loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Purchase of common shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Excess tax benefits from share-based payment
arrangements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash received from exercise of stock options . . .

Intercompany financing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash . . . . . . . . . . .

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents .

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year. . . . . . . . . . . $

Parent

Subsidiary
Guarantors

Non-
Guarantors

Eliminations

Consolidated

(20.0) $

163.6

$

9.8

$

— $

153.4

—

—

—

—

—

—
(75.4)
(17.5)

—

17.6

95.3

20.0

—

—

—

0.7
(61.2)

(6.7)
(67.2)

—
(8.2)

(0.3)
(8.5)

853.4

830.6

(1,016.2)
—

(678.4)
—

—

6.6

—

58.1

(98.1)
—
(1.7)
4.3

—

—

—
(153.4)

(1.2)
2.6

2.7

126.6

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

— $

2.6

$

129.3

$

— $

0.7
(69.4)

(7.0)
(75.7)

1,684.0

(1,694.6)
(75.4)
(17.5)

6.6

17.6

—

(79.3)
2.6

1.0

130.9

131.9

104

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Balance Sheet
As of September 30, 2012 
(in millions)

Parent

ASSETS

Subsidiary
Guarantors

Non-
Guarantors

Eliminations

Consolidated

— $

2.6

$

129.3

$

— $

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts receivable, net. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Inventories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Prepaid and other current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total current assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Property, plant and equipment, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Goodwill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Intangible assets, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equity investment in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

29.8
828.5

Intercompany assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

556.6
Total assets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $ 1,414.9

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

248.4

332.1

88.5

671.6

380.6

308.7

264.2

11.2
—

—

82.5

82.8

33.8

328.4

46.8

0.7

42.9

32.8
—

—

$ 1,636.3

$

451.6

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

—
$ (1,428.4) $ 2,074.4

131.9

330.9

414.9

122.3

1,000.0

427.4

309.4

307.1

30.5
—

1.5

152.3

279.8

433.6

781.1

257.8

—

—

1,472.5

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
(43.3)
(828.5)
(556.6)

—

—

—
(377.1)
(43.4)
(304.4)
(179.4)
(904.3)
(524.1)

601.9
$ (1,428.4) $ 2,074.4

— $

1.2

$

0.3

$

— $

—

15.9

15.9

777.1

20.0

—

—

813.0

105.4

177.4

284.0

99.8

227.2

304.4

62.6

978.0

658.3

$ 1,636.3

$

46.9

86.5

133.7

281.3

54.0

—

116.8

585.8
(134.2)
451.6

Current liabilities:

Current portion of debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Accounts payable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other current liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total current liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Long-term debt. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Equity investment in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Intercompany liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Total shareholders’ equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

601.9
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity. . . . . . . . . $ 1,414.9

105

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Operations
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 
(in millions)

Net sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Cost of sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cost of sales — impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . .

Cost of sales — product registration and recall matters . . . .
Gross profit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating expenses:

Selling, general and administrative. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Impairment, restructuring and other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Product registration and recall matters . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other income, net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Equity income in subsidiaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Other non-operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Costs related to refinancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interest expense . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income from continuing operations before income taxes . . .
Income tax (benefit) expense from continuing operations . .
Income from continuing operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax. . . . .
Net income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Parent

Subsidiary
Guarantors
— $ 2,276.6
1,422.9
—
17.3
—
3.2
—
833.2
—

Non-
Guarantors
523.1
$
346.1
1.0
—
176.0

Eliminations
$

Consolidated
— $ 2,799.7
1,769.0
—
18.3
3.2
1,009.2

—
—

—
—
—
—
—
(186.8)
(19.4)
1.2
48.1
156.9
(11.0)
167.9
—
167.9

$

523.3
34.1
11.4
(0.5)
264.9
(41.3)
—
—
20.0
286.2
90.9
195.3
(8.5)
186.8

$

163.0
3.5
—
(0.4)
9.9
—
—
—
2.3
7.6
2.8
4.8
36.5
41.3

$

—
—
—
—
—
228.1
19.4
—
(19.4)
(228.1)
—
(228.1)
—
(228.1) $

686.3
37.6
11.4
(0.9)
274.8
—
—
1.2
51.0
222.6
82.7
139.9
28.0
167.9

106

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 
(In millions)

Net income

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

Net foreign currency translation adjustment

Net change in derivatives

Net change in pension and other post retirement
benefits

Total other comprehensive income (loss)

Comprehensive income

Parent

$

167.9

Subsidiary
Guarantors
186.8
$

Non-
Guarantors
41.3
$

Eliminations Consolidated
167.9
$

(228.1) $

—
(4.3)

—
(4.3)
163.6

$

$

—

1.3

(1.6)
(0.3)
186.5

(10.1)
—

13.8

3.7

$

45.0

$

—

—

—

—
(228.1) $

(10.1)
(3.0)

12.2
(0.9)
167.0

107

THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
Condensed, Consolidating Statement of Cash Flows
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 
(in millions)

NET CASH (USED IN) PROVIDED BY OPERATING
ACTIVITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Proceeds from sale of long-lived assets . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Proceeds from sale of business, net of transaction costs

Investments in property, plant and equipment . . . . . . . .

Contingent consideration and related payments . . . . . . .

Investment in acquired businesses, net of cash acquired

Net cash provided by investing activities . . . . . . . .

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

Borrowings under revolving and bank lines of credit
and term loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Repayments under revolving and bank lines of credit
and term loans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Proceeds from issuance of Senior Notes, net of
discount. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Financing and issuance fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dividends paid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Purchase of common shares . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Payments on seller notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Excess tax benefits from share-based payment
arrangements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cash received from exercise of stock options . . . . . . . .

Intercompany financing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents . . . . . .

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year . . . . . . . . . .
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $

Parent

Subsidiary
Guarantors

Non-
Guarantors

Eliminations

Consolidated

(10.5) $

85.2

$

47.4

$

— $

122.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

0.2

158.7
(64.5)
(20.0)
(7.6)
66.8

—

94.9
(8.2)
—

—

86.7

908.2

701.9

(302.4)

(660.8)

(668.9)

200.0
(18.9)
(67.9)
(358.7)
—

—

31.5

526.9

10.5

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
(0.3)

5.6

—
(405.3)
(152.6)
—
(0.6)
5.1

—

—

—

—

—

—

—
(121.6)
(88.6)
(2.1)
43.4

83.0

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

0.2

253.6
(72.7)
(20.0)
(7.6)
153.5

1,610.1

(1,632.1)

200.0
(18.9)
(67.9)
(358.7)
(0.3)

5.6

31.5

—
(230.7)
(2.1)
42.8

88.1

— $

4.5

$

126.4

$

— $

130.9

108

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2013 

Column A

Classification

Column B

Balance
at
Beginning
of Period

Column C

Column D

Column E

Column F

Reserves
Acquired

Additions
Charged
to
Expense

(In millions)

Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs

Balance
at End of
Period

Valuation and qualifying accounts deducted from the assets
to which they apply:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Allowance for doubtful accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income tax valuation allowance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

10.5
48.4

— $
—

$

5.5
(4.0)

(6.5) $
7.1

9.5
51.5

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 

Column A

Classification

Column B

Balance
at
Beginning
of Period

Column C

Column D

Column E

Column F

Reserves
Acquired

Additions
Charged
to
Expense

(In millions)

Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs

Balance
at End of
Period

Valuation and qualifying accounts deducted from the assets
to which they apply:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Allowance for doubtful accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income tax valuation allowance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

12.9
44.3

— $
—

$

19.1
(0.6)

(21.5) $
4.7

10.5
48.4

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011 

Column A

Classification

Column B

Balance
at
Beginning
of Period

Column C

Column D

Column E

Column F

Reserves
Acquired

Additions
Charged
to
Expense

(In millions)

Deductions
Credited
and
Write-Offs

Balance
at End of
Period

Valuation and qualifying accounts deducted from the assets
to which they apply:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Allowance for doubtful accounts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $
Income tax valuation allowance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$

7.7
42.3

$

0.1
—

$

9.5
(2.0)

(4.4) $
4.0

12.9
44.3

109

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company

Index to Exhibits

Exhibit
No.
3.1(a)

3.1(b)

3.2

4.1(a)

4.1(b)

4.1(c)

Description
Initial Articles of Incorporation of The Scotts Miracle-
Gro Company as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State 
on November 22, 2004

Certificate of Amendment by Shareholders to Articles 
of Incorporation of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 
as filed with the Ohio Secretary of State on March 18, 
2005

Code  of  Regulations  of  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro 
Company

Indenture, dated January 14, 2010, among The Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company,  the  guarantors  from  time  to 
time party thereto and U.S. Bank National Association, 
as trustee

First Supplemental Indenture, dated January 14, 2010, 
among  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company, 
the 
subsidiary  guarantors  named  therein  and  U.S.  Bank 
National Association, as trustee

Second Supplemental Indenture, dated September 28, 
2011,  among  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company,  the 
subsidiary  guarantors  named  therein  and  U.S.  Bank 
National Association, as trustee

4.1(d)

Form of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2018

4.2(a)

4.2(b)

Indenture,  dated  as  of  December  16,  2010,  by  and 
among  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company, 
the 
Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. Bank National 
Association, as trustee

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 
28,  2011,  by  and  among  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro 
Company, the Guarantors (as defined therein) and U.S. 
Bank National Association, as trustee

4.2(c)

Form of 6.625% Senior Notes due 2020

4.2(d)

as  of 
Registration  Rights  Agreement,  dated 
December 16, 2010, by and among The Scotts Miracle-
Gro  Company,  the  guarantors  named  therein  and 
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, 
as representative of the several initial purchasers named 
therein

Location
Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report 
on Form 8-K of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, (the 
“Registrant”) filed March 24, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) 
[Exhibit 3.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 24, 2005 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 3.2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 24, 2005 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 3.3]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current  Report  on  Form  8-K  filed  January  14,  2010 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current  Report  on  Form  8-K  filed  January  14,  2010 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1(c)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current  Report  on  Form  8-K  filed  January  14,  2010 
(File No. 1-11593) [Included in Exhibit 4.2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.2(b)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 
(File No. 1-11593) [Included in Exhibit 4.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.3]

4.3

Agreement  to  furnish  copies  of  instruments  and 
agreements defining rights of holders of long-term debt

*

110

  
  
  
  
  
10.1(a)

10.1(b)

10.2

10.3

10.4(a)†

10.4(b)†

Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, 
dated as of May 19, 1995, among Stern’s Miracle-Gro 
Products,  Inc.,  Stern’s  Nurseries,  Inc.,  Miracle-Gro 
Lawn  Products  Inc.,  Miracle-Gro  Products  Limited, 
Hagedorn  Partnership,  L.P.,  the  general  partners  of 
Hagedorn  Partnership,  L.P.,  Horace  Hagedorn, 
Community Funds, Inc., and John Kenlon, The Scotts 
Company and ZYX Corporation

First Amendment to Amended and Restated Agreement 
and  Plan  of  Merger,  made  and  entered  into  as  of 
October 1, 1999, among The Scotts Company, Scotts’ 
Miracle-Gro  Products,  Inc.  (as  successor  to  ZYX 
Corporation and Stern’s Miracle-Gro Products, Inc.), 
Miracle-Gro  Lawn  Products 
Inc.,  Miracle-Gro 
Products  Limited,  Hagedorn  Partnership,  L.P., 
Community  Funds,  Inc.,  Horace  Hagedorn  and  John 
Kenlon,  and  James  Hagedorn,  Katherine  Hagedorn 
Littlefield,  Paul  Hagedorn,  Peter  Hagedorn,  Robert 
Hagedorn and Susan Hagedorn

the  “Borrower” 

Second  Amended  and  Restated  Credit  Agreement, 
dated as of June 30, 2011, by and among The Scotts 
the 
Miracle-Gro  Company  as 
Subsidiary  Borrowers  (as  defined  in  the  Second 
Amended and Restated Credit Agreement); the several 
banks and other financial institutions from time to time 
parties  to  the  Second Amended  and  Restated  Credit 
Agreement (the “Lenders”); Bank of America, N.A., as 
Syndication Agent; Cobank, ACB, BNP Paribas, Credit 
Agricole  Corporate  and  Investment  Bank,  Rabobank 
Nederland, Citizens Bank of Pennsylvania, The Bank 
of  Nova  Scotia  and  Wells  Fargo  Bank,  N.A.,  as 
Documentation Agents;  and  JPMorgan  Chase  Bank, 
N.A., as Administrative Agent

Second  Amended  and  Restated  Guarantee  and 
Collateral Agreement, dated as of June 30, 2011, made 
by The Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company, each  domestic 
Subsidiary Borrower under the Second Amended and 
Restated Credit Agreement, and certain of its and their 
domestic  subsidiaries,  in  favor  of  JPMorgan  Chase 
Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent

The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Amended  and 
Restated  1996  Stock  Option  Plan  (effective  as  of 
October 30, 2007)

Specimen form of Stock Option Agreement for Non-
Qualified Stock Options granted to employees under 
The  Scotts  Company  1996  Stock  Option  Plan  (now 
known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended 
and Restated 1996 Stock Option Plan)

10.5(a)†

The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Amended  and 
Restated 2003 Stock Option and Incentive Equity Plan 
(effective as of October 30, 2007)

10.5(b)(i)

Specimen form of Award Agreement for Directors used 
to evidence grants of Nonqualified Stock Options made 
under  The  Scotts  Company  2003  Stock  Option  and 
Incentive  Equity  Plan  (now  known  as  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company Amended  and  Restated  2003 
Stock Option and Incentive Equity Plan) [2003 version]

111

Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report 
on  Form  8-K  of  The  Scotts  Company,  a  Delaware 
corporation,  filed  June  2,  1995  (File  No.  0-19768) 
[Exhibit 2(b)]

Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report 
on  Form  8-K  of  The  Scotts  Company,  an  Ohio 
corporation, filed October 5, 1999 (File No. 1-13292) 
[Exhibit 2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 1, 2011 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 1, 2011 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 4.2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2007 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(d)
(4)]

Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report 
on  Form  8-K  of  The  Scotts  Company,  an  Ohio 
corporation,  filed  November  19,  2004  (File  No. 
1-11593) [Exhibit 10.7]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2007 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(j)
(3)]

Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report 
on  Form  8-K  of  The  Scotts  Company,  an  Ohio 
corporation,  filed  November  19,  2004  (File  No. 
1-11593) [Exhibit 10.9]

  
  
10.5(b)(ii)

10.5(c)(i)†

10.5(c)(ii)†

Specimen form of Award Agreement for Directors used 
to evidence grants of Nonqualified Stock Options made 
under The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  2003  Stock 
Option and Incentive Equity Plan (now known as The 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 
2003  Stock  Option  and  Incentive  Equity  Plan) 
[post-2003 version]

Specimen form of Award Agreement for Nondirectors 
used  to  evidence  grants  of  Incentive  Stock  Options, 
Nonqualified  Stock  Options,  Stock  Appreciation 
Rights, Restricted Stock and Performance Stock made 
under  The  Scotts  Company  2003  Stock  Option  and 
Incentive  Equity  Plan  (now  known  as  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company Amended  and  Restated  2003 
Stock  Option  and  Incentive  Equity  Plan)  [pre-
December 1, 2004 version]

Specimen form of Award Agreement for Nondirectors 
used  to  evidence  grants  of  Incentive  Stock  Options, 
Nonqualified  Stock  Options,  Stock  Appreciation 
Rights, Restricted Stock and Performance Shares made 
under The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  2003  Stock 
Option and Incentive Equity Plan (now known as The 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 
2003  Stock  Option  and  Incentive  Equity  Plan) 
[effective December 1, 2004]

10.6(a)†

The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term 
Incentive Plan (effective as of January 17, 2013)

10.6(b)

10.6(c)(i)

10.6(c)(ii)

10.6(c)(iii)

Specimen form of Award Agreement for Nonemployee 
Directors  used  to  evidence  grants  of  Time-Based 
Nonqualified Stock Options which may be made under 
The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  2006  Long-Term 
Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro 
Company Long-Term Incentive Plan)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-
Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term 
Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro 
Company  Long-Term  Incentive  Plan)  (February 4, 
2008 through January 22, 2009 version)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 
2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive 
Plan) (January 23, 2009 through January 19, 2012)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 
2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive 
Plan) (January 20, 2012 through January 17, 2013)

112

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(v)]

Incorporated herein by reference to the Current Report 
on  Form  8-K  of  The  Scotts  Company,  an  Ohio 
corporation,  filed  November  19,  2004  (File  No. 
1-11593) [Exhibit 10.8]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(u)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current  Report  on  Form  8-K  filed  January  24,  2013 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current  Report  on  Form  8-K  filed  February  2,  2006 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.3]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2007 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10(m)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended  March 28,  2009  (File  No. 1-11593)  [Exhibit 
10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.4]

  
10.6(c)(iv)

10.6(c)(v)

10.6(c)(vi)

10.6(d)(i)

10.6(d)(ii)

10.6(d)(iii)

10.6(d)(iv)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred  Stock  Units  made  on  January  20,  2012  to 
Adam  Hanft  and  William  G.  Jurgensen  under  The 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 
Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts 
Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive 
Plan (post-January 17, 2013 version)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred  Stock  Units  made  on  January  18,  2013  to 
William G.  Jurgensen  under The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro 
Company Long-Term Incentive Plan 

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units made under The Scotts Miracle-
Gro Company Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term 
Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts Miracle-Gro 
Company Long-Term Incentive Plan) (Deferral of Cash 
Retainer — January 22, 2010 through January 20, 2011 
version)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 
2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive 
Plan) (Deferral of Cash Retainer — January 21, 2011 
through January 19, 2012)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The 
Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Amended and Restated 
2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive 
Plan) (Deferral of Cash Retainer — January 20, 2012 
through January 17, 2013)

Specimen  form  of  Deferred  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement for Nonemployee Directors (with Related 
Dividend  Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of 
Deferred Stock Units which may be made under The 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive 
Plan  (Deferral  of  Cash  Retainer  —  post-January  17, 
2013 version)

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.5]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.3]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.4]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended  January  2,  2010  (File  No. 1-11593)  [Exhibit 
10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended January 1, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.4]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.6]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.2]

113

  
  
10.6(e)†

10.6(f)(i)†

10.6(f)(ii)†

10.6(f)(iii)†

10.6(f)(iv)†

10.6(g)(i)†

10.6(g)(ii)†

10.6(g)(iii)†

Specimen form of Award Agreement used to evidence 
grants of Restricted Stock Units, Performance Shares, 
Nonqualified Stock Options, Incentive Stock Options, 
Restricted Stock and Stock Appreciation Rights made 
under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 2006 Long-
Term  Incentive  Plan  (now  known  as  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive  Plan) 
[pre-October 30, 2007 version]

Specimen  form  of  Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement  for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend 
Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of  Restricted 
Stock  Units  which  may  be  made  under  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company Amended  and  Restated  2006 
Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive  Plan) 
(January 20, 2010 through January 19, 2012 version)

Specimen  form  of  Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement  for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend 
Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of  Restricted 
Stock  Units  which  may  be  made  under  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company Amended  and  Restated  2006 
Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive  Plan) 
(January 20, 2012 through January 17, 2013)

Specimen  form  of  Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement  for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend 
Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of  Restricted 
Stock  Units  which  may  be  made  under  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive  Plan 
(post-January 17, 2013 version)

Specimen  form  of  Restricted  Stock  Unit  Award 
Agreement  for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend 
Equivalents)  used  to  evidence  grants  of  Restricted 
Stock  Units  made  on April  1,  2013  to  Lawrence A. 
Hilsheimer  under  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company 
Long-Term Incentive Plan

Specimen form of Performance Unit Award Agreement 
for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend  Equivalents) 
used to evidence grants of Performance Units which 
may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 
Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
(now  known  as  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company 
Long-Term Incentive Plan) (January 21, 2011 through 
January 19, 2012 version)

Specimen form of Performance Unit Award Agreement 
for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend  Equivalents) 
used to evidence grants of Performance Units which 
may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 
Amended and Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
(now  known  as  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company 
Long-Term Incentive Plan) (January 20, 2012 through 
January 17, 2013

Specimen form of Performance Unit Award Agreement 
for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend  Equivalents) 
used to evidence grants of Performance Units which 
may be made under The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 
Long-Term Incentive Plan (January
17, 2013 version)

114

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 31, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10(b)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended  January  2,  2010  (File  No. 1-11593)  [Exhibit 
10.2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.5]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended March 30, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.6]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current  Report  on  Form  8-K  filed  January  26,  2011 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.6]

  
  
  
10.6(g)(iv)†

Specimen form of Performance Unit Award Agreement 
for  Employees  (with  Related  Dividend  Equivalents) 
used to evidence grants of Performance Units made on 
January 18, 2013 to James Hagedorn under The Scotts 
Miracle-Gro Company Long-Term Incentive Plan

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended  March 30,  2013  (File  No. 1-11593)  [Exhibit 
10.8]

10.6(h)(i)†

10.6(h)(ii)†

10.6(h)(iii)†

10.6(h)(iv)†

10.6(h)(v)†

10.7(a)(i)†

10.7(a)(ii)†

10.7(b)(i)†

Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award 
Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of 
Nonqualified  Stock  Options  made  under  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro Company 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan 
(now  known  as  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company 
Long-Term Incentive Plan) [October 30, 2007 through 
October 8, 2008 version]

Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award 
Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of 
Nonqualified  Stock  Options  made  under  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company Amended  and  Restated  2006 
Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known as The Scotts 
Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term  Incentive  Plan) 
(October 9, 2008 through January 19, 2010 version)

Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award 
Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of 
Nonqualified Stock Options which may be made under 
The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Amended  and 
Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known 
as  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term 
Incentive Plan) (January 20, 2010 through January 19, 
2012 version)

Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award 
Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of 
Nonqualified Stock Options which may be made under 
The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Amended  and 
Restated 2006 Long-Term Incentive Plan (now known 
as  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term 
Incentive Plan) (January 20, 2012 through January 17, 
2013)

Specimen form of Nonqualified Stock Option Award 
Agreement for Employees used to evidence grants of 
Nonqualified Stock Options which may be made under 
The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Long-Term 
Incentive Plan (post-January 17, 2013 version)

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2007 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(t)
(3)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2008 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.7
(f)(ii)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended  January  2,  2010  (File  No. 1-11593)  [Exhibit 
10.4]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 31, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.3]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.7]

The  Scotts  Company  LLC  Amended  and  Restated 
Executive/Management  Incentive  Plan  (approved  on 
November 7,  2007  and  effective  as  of  October 30, 
2007)

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2007 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(b)
(2)]

Amendment  to  The  Scotts  Company  LLC Amended 
and  Restated  Executive/Management  Incentive  Plan 
(effective as of November 5, 2008) [amended the name 
of the plan to be The Scotts Company LLC Amended 
and Restated Executive Incentive Plan]

form  of  Employee  Confidentiality, 
Specimen 
Noncompetition,  Nonsolicitation  Agreement 
for 
employees  participating  in  The  Scotts  Company 
Executive/Management Incentive Plan (now known as 
The  Scotts  Company  LLC  Amended  and  Restated 
Executive Incentive Plan) [2005 version]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed November 12, 2008 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2008 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2
(b)(i)]

115

  
  
  
  
  
  
10.7(b)(ii)†

10.7(c)†

10.8(a)(i)†

10.8(a)(ii)†

form  of  Employee  Confidentiality, 
Specimen 
Noncompetition,  Nonsolicitation  Agreement 
for 
employees participating in The Scotts Company LLC 
Executive/Management Incentive Plan (now known as 
The  Scotts  Company  LLC  Amended  and  Restated 
Executive Incentive Plan) [post-2005 version]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended July 1, 2006 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

Executive  Officers  of  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro 
Company  who  are  parties  to  form  of  Employee 
Confidentiality,  Noncompetition,  Nonsolicitation 
Agreement for employees participating in The Scotts 
Company  LLC  Amended  and  Restated  Executive 
Incentive Plan

*

The Scotts Company LLC Executive Retirement Plan, 
As  Amended  and  Restated  as  of  January  1,  2011 
(executed December 22, 2010)

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended January 1, 2011 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.3]

First  Amendment  to  The  Scotts  Company  LLC 
Executive Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated 
as of January 1, 2011 (effective as of January 1, 2011)

10.8(a)(iii)†

Second  Amendment  to  The  Scotts  Company  LLC 
Executive Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated 
as of January 1, 2011 (effective as of January 1, 2012)

10.8(a)(iv)†

Third  Amendment  to  The  Scotts  Company  LLC 
Executive Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated 
as of January 1, 2011 (effective as of January 1, 2013)

10.8(b)†

Form of Executive Retirement Plan Retention Award 
Agreement  between  The  Scotts  Company  LLC  and 
each of David C. Evans, Barry W. Sanders, Denise S. 
Stump, Michael C. Lukemire and Vincent C. Brockman 
(entered into on November 4, 2008)

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.8]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.9]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 29, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.10]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 15, 2008 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2]

10.9

Summary  of  Compensation 
for  Nonemployee 
Directors  of  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company 
(effective as of January 22, 2010)

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended April 3, 2010 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.7]

10.10(a)†

Employment Agreement,  dated  as  of  May 19,  1995, 
between The Scotts Company and James Hagedorn

10.10(b)†

10.10(c)†

Amendments  to  Employment  Agreement  by  and 
among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, The Scotts 
Company  LLC  and  James  Hagedorn,  effective  as  of 
October 1,  2008  (executed  by  Mr. Hagedorn  on 
December 22,  2008  and  on  behalf  of  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro Company and The Scotts Company LLC 
by Denise Stump on December 22, 2008 and Vincent 
C. Brockman on December 30, 2008)

Separation  Agreement  and  Release  of  All  Claims, 
entered into and effective as of July 10, 2013, by and 
between  The  Scotts  Company  LLC  and  Vincent  C. 
Brockman

Incorporated herein by reference to the Annual Report 
on  Form  10-K  of  The  Scotts  Company,  an  Ohio 
corporation,  for  the  fiscal  year  ended  September  30, 
1995 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(p)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended December 27, 2008 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 
10.16]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed July 11, 2013 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

10.10(d)

Consulting  Agreement,  dated  as  of  May  9,  2013, 
between  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  and  Dr. 
Michael Porter

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period 
ended June 29, 2013 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.3]

116

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
10.11(a)†

The Scotts Company LLC Executive Severance Plan, 
adopted on May 4, 2011

10.11(b)†

Form  of  Tier  1  Participation  Agreement  under  The 
Scotts Company LLC Executive Severance Plan

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 10, 2011 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed May 10, 2011 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.2]

10.11(c)†

10.12(a)

10.12(b)

10.12(c)

10.13

10.14

10.15(a)

10.15(b)

12

14

21

23

Executive  Officers  of  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro 
Company who are parties to form of Tier 1 Participation 
Agreement under The Scotts Company LLC Executive 
Severance Plan

*

Amended  and  Restated  Exclusive  Agency  and 
Marketing Agreement,  effective  as  of  September 30, 
1998,  between  Monsanto  Company  and  The  Scotts 
Company LLC (as successor to The Scotts Company)

Letter Agreement, dated March 10, 2005, amending the 
Amended  and  Restated  Exclusive  Agency  and 
Marketing Agreement, dated as of September 30, 1998, 
between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company 
LLC (as successor to The Scotts Company)

Letter Agreement, dated March 28, 2008, amending the 
Amended  and  Restated  Exclusive  Agency  and 
Marketing Agreement, dated as of September 30, 1998, 
between Monsanto Company and The Scotts Company 
LLC

Purchase Agreement, dated as of December 13, 2010, 
among  The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company, 
the 
subsidiary guarantors named therein and Merrill Lynch, 
Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, as representative 
of the several initial purchasers named therein

Share  and  Business  Sale  Agreement,  dated  as  of 
February 23, 2011, by and among The Scotts Company 
LLC, as Seller, each of the Share Sellers and Business 
Sellers (as defined therein), Israel Chemicals Ltd., as 
Purchaser, each of the Share Purchasers and Business 
Purchasers (as defined therein) and The Scotts Miracle-
Gro Company, as Seller Guarantor

Master  Accounts  Receivable  Purchase  Agreement, 
dated  as  of  November  15,  2012,  by  and  among The 
Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company,  The  Scotts  Company 
LLC,  The  Bank  of  Nova  Scotia,  Suntrust  Bank,  RB 
Receivables LLC and Mizuho Corporate Bank, Ltd., as 
Administrative Agent and as a Bank

First Amendment, dated as of October 25, 2013, to the 
Master  Accounts  Receivable  Purchase  Agreement, 
dated  as  of  November  15,  2012,  among  The  Scotts 
Miracle-Gro Company, The Scotts Company LLC, The 
Bank of Nova Scotia, Suntrust Bank, RB Receivables 
LLC and Mizuho Bank, Ltd., as Administrative Agent 
and as a Bank

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2005 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10(x)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2009 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.17
(b)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2008 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.18
(b)]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed December 16, 2010 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed March 1, 2011 (File 
No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2012 (File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.16]

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant’s 
Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 31, 2013 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 10.1]

  Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

  *

The  Scotts  Miracle-Gro  Company  Code  of  Business 
Conduct  &  Ethics  (as  revised  effective  January  18, 
2012)

Incorporated  herein  by  reference  to  the  Registrant's 
Current  Report  on  Form  8-K  filed  January  24,  2012 
(File No. 1-11593) [Exhibit 14.1]

  Subsidiaries of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting 
Firm — Deloitte & Touche LLP

  *

*

117

  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
24

31.1

31.2

32

Powers of Attorney of Executive Officers and Directors 
of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company

*

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)  Certifications 
Executive Officer)

(Principal 

*

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a)  Certifications 
Financial Officer)

(Principal 

*

Section 1350  Certifications 
Officer and Principal Financial Officer)

(Principal  Executive 

101.INS**

  XBRL Instance Document

101.SCH**

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema

101.CAL**

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase

101.DEF**

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase

101.LAB**

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase

101.PRE**

  XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

*

  *

  *

  *

  *

  *

  *

*

**

†

Filed or furnished herewith.

Pursuant to Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, these interactive data files are deemed not filed or part of a registration statement
or prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933 or Section 18 of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 and otherwise are not subject to liability.

Management contract, compensatory plan or arrangement.

118

  
  
  
  
 
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications
(Principal Executive Officer)
CERTIFICATIONS

I, James Hagedorn, certify that:

Exhibit 31.1

1.

I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company for the fiscal year ended
September 30, 2013;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly

present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and
for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a)  Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be
designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its 
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in 
which this report is being prepared;

(b)  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting 
to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles;

(c) 

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report 
our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period 
covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)  Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred 

during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual 
report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control 
over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control
over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or
persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a)  All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial

reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize 
and report financial information; and

(b)  Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role 

in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 20, 2013

By:

/s/ JAMES HAGEDORN

Printed Name: James Hagedorn
Title: Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certifications
(Principal Financial Officer)
CERTIFICATIONS

I, Lawrence A. Hilsheimer, certify that:

Exhibit 31.2

1. 

I have reviewed this Annual Report on Form 10-K of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company for the fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2013;

2.  Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material 
fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not 
misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.  Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly 

present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and 
for, the periods presented in this report;

4.  The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and 
procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting 
(as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a)  Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be 
designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its 
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in 
which this report is being prepared;

(b)  Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting 
to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial 
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles;

(c) 

Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report 
our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period 
covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)  Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred 

during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual 
report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control 
over financial reporting; and

5.  The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control 
over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or 
persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a)  All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial 

reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize 
and report financial information; and

(b)  Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role 

in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 20, 2013

By:

/s/ LAWRENCE A. HILSHEIMER

  Printed Name: Lawrence A. Hilsheimer
  Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

 
 
 
 
 
 
SECTION 1350 CERTIFICATIONS*

Exhibit 32

In connection with the Annual Report on Form 10-K of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company (the “Company”) for the fiscal year 
ended September 30, 2013 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the 
undersigned James Hagedorn, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of the Company, and Lawrence A. 
Hilsheimer, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 
63 of Title 18 of the United States Code, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that, to the best 
of their knowledge:

1) 

2) 

The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the consolidated financial condition 
and results of operations of the Company and its subsidiaries.

/s/ JAMES HAGEDORN
Printed Name: James Hagedorn
Title: Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the
Board

/s/ LAWRENCE A. HILSHEIMER
Printed Name: Lawrence A. Hilsheimer
Title: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

  November 20, 2013

  November 20, 2013

*

THESE CERTIFICATIONS ARE BEING FURNISHED AS REQUIRED BY RULE 13a-14(b) UNDER THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (THE “EXCHANGE ACT”) AND SECTION 1350 OF CHAPTER 63 OF
TITLE 18 OF THE UNITED STATES CODE, AND SHALL NOT BE DEEMED “FILED” FOR PURPOSES OF
SECTION 18 OF THE EXCHANGE ACT OR OTHERWISE SUBJECT TO THE LIABILITY OF THAT SECTION.
THESE CERTIFICATIONS SHALL NOT BE DEEMED TO BE INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE INTO ANY
FILING UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR THE EXCHANGE ACT, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT THAT
THE COMPANY SPECIFICALLY INCORPORATES THESE CERTIFICATIONS BY REFERENCE.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

World Headquarters
14111 Scottslawn Road
Marysville, Ohio 43041  
(937) 644-0011  

www.scotts.com

Annual Meeting
The annual meeting of shareholders will be held
at The Berger Learning Center, 14111 Scottslawn
Road, Marysville, Ohio 43041, on Thursday,
January 30, 2014 at 9:00 a.m. ET.

NYSE Symbol
The common shares of The Scotts Miracle-Gro 
Company trade on the New York Stock  
Exchange under the symbol SMG.

Transfer Agent and Registrar
Wells Fargo Shareowner Services
P.O. Box 64874
St. Paul, MN 55164-0856     

Shareholder and Investor 
Relations Contact
Jim King
Senior Vice President,
Chief Communications Officer

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
14111 Scottslawn Road
Marysville, Ohio 43041    
(937) 644-0011 

Dividends
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company began paying
a quarterly cash dividend of $0.125 per share in
the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005. In the fourth
quarter of fiscal 2010, the Company increased
the quarterly cash dividend to $0.25 per share.
In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company
increased the quarterly cash dividend to $0.30
per share. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012,
the Company increased the quarterly cash
dividend to $0.325 per share. On August 6,
2013, the Company announced that its Board
of Directors had further increased the quarterly
cash dividend to $0.4375 per share, which was
first paid to shareholders in the fourth quarter
of fiscal 2013.

The payment of future dividends, if any, on
common shares will be determined by the
Board of Directors of the Company in light
of conditions then existing, including the

Company’s earnings, financial condition and
capital requirements, restrictions in financing
agreements, business conditions and other
factors. The Company’s credit facility restricts
future dividend payments to an aggregate of
$150 million annually beginning in fiscal 2014
if the Company’s leverage ratio, after giving
effect to any such annual dividend payment,
exceeds 2.50. The Company’s leverage ratio
was 2.05 at September 30, 2013. For further
discussion regarding the restrictions on
dividend payments, see “NOTE 10. DEBT” of
the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
included in the Company’s 2013 Annual Report
on Form 10-K.

Stock Price Performance
See chart below for stock price performance.
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company common
shares have been publicly traded since
January 31, 1992. 

Shareholders
As of November 7, 2013, there were
approximately 23,700 shareholders, including
holders of record and The Scotts Miracle-Gro
Company’s estimate of beneficial holders.

Publications for Shareholders
In addition to this 2013 Annual Report,
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company informs
shareholders about the Company through its
Annual Report on Form 10-K, its Quarterly
Reports on Form 10-Q, its Current Reports on
Form 8-K and its Notice of Annual Meeting of
Shareholders and Proxy Statement. 

Copies of any of these documents may be  
obtained without charge on our Investor  
Relations Web site at http://investor.scotts.com 
or by writing to:

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Attention: Investor Relations
14111 Scottslawn Road
Marysville, Ohio 43041     

Stock Price Range
Fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2013 

First Quarter  
Second Quarter 
Third Quarter  
Fourth Quarter 

High 

Low

$44.60  
 $47.60  
$50.46 
 $55.99 

$39.64
$42.64
 $42.01
 $47.87

Fiscal year ended 
September 30, 2012 

High 

Low

First Quarter 
Second Quarter 
Third Quarter 
Fourth Quarter 

$50.85 
$55.58 
$55.95 
$45.00 

$40.57 
$46.17
$35.49
$37.97

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private 
Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: 
Statements contained in this 2013 Annual
Report, other than statements of historical fact,
which address activities, events and develop-
ments that the Company expects or anticipates
will or may occur in the future, including, but
not limited to, information regarding the future
economic performance and financial condition
of the Company, the plans and objectives of
the Company’s management, the Company’s
assumptions regarding such performance and
plans, as well as the amount and timing of
repurchases of the Company’s common shares
are “forward-looking statements” within the
meaning of the U.S. federal securities laws that
are subject to risks and uncertainties. Actual
results could differ materially from the forward-
looking information in this 2013 Annual Report
due to a variety of factors. Additional detailed
information concerning a number of the impor-
tant factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from the forward-looking
information contained in this 2013 Annual
Report is readily available in the Company’s
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended September 30, 2013, which is filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Comparison of 5-Year Cumulative Total Return*
Among The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, The Russell 2000 Index and The S&P Household Products Index 

The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company 

Russell 2000 

S&P Household Products Index

$300 

$250 

$200 

$150

$100

$50

$0

9/08 

9/09 

9/10 

9/11 

9/12   

9/13

*$100 invested on 9/30/08 in stock or index, including
reinvestment of dividends. Fiscal year ending September 30.

09945Text_Page.indd   1

12/6/13   7:09 AM

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Jim Hagedorn
Chief Executive Officer and  
Chairman of the Board

Barry Sanders
President and Chief Operating Officer

Larry Hilsheimer
Executive Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer

Jim Lyski
Executive Vice President,
Chief Marketing Officer

Mike Lukemire
Executive Vice President,
Business Execution

Ivan Smith
Executive Vice President,
General Counsel
Corporate Secretary and
Chief Compliance Officer

Denise Stump
Executive Vice President,
Global Human Resources and
Chief Ethics Officer

Chris Allen
President, South Region

Mike Carbonara
President, North Region

Randy Coleman
Senior Vice President,
Global Finance Operations and Enterprise
Performance Management Analytics

Mike French
Senior Vice President
and General Manager,
Controls Strategic Business Unit

Michel Gasnier
President, International Region

Jim Gimeson
Senior Vice President
and General Manager,
Gardens Strategic Business Unit

Scott Hendrick
Senior Vice President,
Chief Information Officer

Phil Jones
Senior Vice President, Channel Sales

Jim King
Senior Vice President,
Chief Communications Officer

Brian Kura
President, Scotts LawnService

Kathryne Reeves
Senior Vice President
and General Manager,
Lawns Strategic Business Unit

Pete Supron
Strategy Principal

Dave Swihart
Senior Vice President,
Global R&D and Sourcing

Jim Tates
President, West Region

Jan Valentic
Senior Vice President,
Regional Marketing

Stephanie M. Shern
Former Vice Chairman and
Global Director – Retail and Consumer Products
Ernst & Young LLP
Professional Services Provider
Chair of Audit & Finance Committee
Board member since 2003

John R. Vines
Lieutenant General (Retired)
U.S. Army
Member of Governance & Nominating Committee and
Strategy & Business Development Committee
Board member since 2013

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Alan H. Barry
Former President and Chief Operating Officer
Masco Corporation
Manufacturer of products for
home improvement and construction
Chair of Governance & Nominating Committee and
Member of Audit & Finance Committee
Board member since 2009

James Hagedorn
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company
Board member since 1995

Adam Hanft
Founder and Chief Executive Officer
Hanft Projects LLC
Strategic consultancy firm
Member of Governance & Nominating Committee
and Innovation & Technology Committee
Board member since 2010 

The Honorable Stephen L. Johnson
Former Administrator
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Member of Audit & Finance Committee,
Compensation & Organization Committee and
Innovation & Technology Committee
Board member since 2010

Thomas N. Kelly Jr.
Former Executive Vice President,
Transition Integration
Sprint Nextel Corporation
Global communications company
Lead Independent Director 
Member of Compensation & Organization Committee
and Strategy & Business Development Committee
Board member since 2006

Katherine Hagedorn Littlefield
Chair
Hagedorn Partnership, L.P.
Private investment partnership
Vice Chairman of the Board 
Chair of Innovation & Technology Committee and
Member of Strategy & Business Development Committee
Board member since 2000

Nancy G. Mistretta
Retired Partner
Russell Reynolds Associates
Executive search firm 
Chair of Compensation & Organization Committee
and Member of Audit & Finance Committee
Board member since 2007

Michael E. Porter, Ph.D.
Bishop William Lawrence University Professor
Harvard Business School
Chair of Strategy & Business Development Committee
Board member since 2013

*The electronic version of the Company’s Annual Report includes certain clerical corrections to titles of directors, officers 
and other company personnel.

 
Our Brands

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www.scottsmiraclegro.com

14111 Scottslawn Road
Marysville, Ohio 43041
937.644.0011