NEW YORK (Standard&Poor's CreditWire) May 1, 2000--Standard&Poor's today revised its outlook on The Scotts Co. to stable from negative. At the same time, Standard&Poor's affirmed its double-'B' corporate credit and bank loan ratings, as well as its single-'B'-plus subordinated debt rating, for the company. Total rated debt is about $1.325 billion. The outlook revision reflects the company's positive operating trends as it heads into its seasonal peak selling season, modestly improving financial measures, and the successful integration of Ortho. Ratings reflect Scotts' leading brand names and market shares in all segments of the seasonal consumer lawn and garden market in the U.S. and continental Europe, despite higher debt levels following a series of debt-financed
