What is aeration?
Aeration (also called core aeration) is the perforation of the soil and removal of "cores" or "plugs" and depositing them on the surface of the lawn to break down.
Why should I aerate my lawn?
There are four main reasons: (1) Aeration allows moisture, oxygen and fertilizer to permeate as low as the root zone, allowing the roots to more fully develop and penetrate deeper into the soil and facilitate a thicker, more healthy lawn. (2) It helps to remove thatch build-up that hinders additional grass growth. (3) It helps to minimize soil compaction. (4) If one desires to over-seed, aeration creates the perfect environment for quick seed germination and growth.
Would my lawn benefit from an aeration?
At least one annual aeration is recommended for every yard. Some signs that your lawn could use an additional aeration would include: it has high traffic areas that look worn, yard has trouble greening up (even after fertilization) and brown out early on in the summer, yard has poor drainage, or your yard has been established upon a poor subsoil with clay.
When should I aerate?
It is recommended that a home-owner aerate both spring and fall for most grass types. A lawn should be aerated at least once a year.
What should be done after aeration?
Immediately following aeration is the best time to apply fertilizer, seed, and a good watering.
Why water my lawn following aeration?
The water will help to begin breaking down the plugs on the surface of the lawn and also allows the water direct access to the newly exposed root-system.
What is the benefit of applying fertilizer after aeration?
Immediately following an aeration is the optimum time to fertilize due to the root system being exposed to immediate contact with the fertilizer. However, it is important for one to use the correct fertilizer treatment for the appropriate season.
Should I over-seed after aerating?
If one's lawn is looking particularly thin or patchy, then an over-seeding is certainly in order. Remember, if you plan on combining an over-seeding with a fertilization, DO NOT use a fertilizer with weed-control. If you do, your seed will not germinate properly. It is a good idea to fertilize and over-seed at the same time as long as you don't use a fertilizer with weed control.
Is aeration the answer to my distressed lawn?
Though an aeration could certainly benefit any lawn, it is not the sole component of a proper lawn maintenance program which should always include proper fertilization, watering, and over-seeding. Other factors that may be contributing tot the lack-luster appearance of a lawn may include: lack of direct sunlight, poor soil drainage and/or erosion, bugs, insects, and even wild-life traffic.
How long does it take for the cores to disappear?
It takes about two weeks for the cores to break down. Thought the cores do not appear very attractive at first glance, it would be unwise to rake or pick them up, because this would reduce the effectiveness of the aeration itself.
Should I aerate my newly laid sod and/or seeded grass?
One should avoid aerating a newly sodded area until it has been firmly established (between 6 to 12 months after it has been laid). Avoid aerating seeded lawn until the seedlings have reached maturity.
Should aeration be part of my lawn-care program?
One should certainly incorporate aeration into their maintenance program at least once a year. Just like fertilization over-seeding, weed control, watering, and mowing, it is a necessary part of a comprehensive lawn-care program. Without it, you may find your lawn beginning to regress and all of your invested time, energy, and money will have been wasted.
Aeration (also called core aeration) is the perforation of the soil and removal of "cores" or "plugs" and depositing them on the surface of the lawn to break down.