It’s something most people with lawns should consider doing at least once a year.
What Is Lawn Aeration?
A plug aerator removes a core of soil and then deposits it on top of your lawn.
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A spike aerator punctures the ground providing a path for nutrients to dive into the roots.
Urbanek argues that core aeration is more effective since it provides a larger path for nutrients.
He says it also tends to break up compacted soil more effectively compared to spike aeration.
Why Is Aeration Important?
Over time, your lawn naturally becomes more compacted due to foot traffic, mowing, and other activities.
In other words, the soil becomes denser and harder, which can impact the grass quality.
Without aeration, your lawn can weaken and thin out over time.
As another benefit, aeration helps reduce thatch buildup in your lawn.
The end result of aeration is a thicker lawn with a deeper, healthier root system.
Does My Lawn Need Aeration?
Aeration is obviously a game-changer for a wayward grass situation, but doeseverylawn require aeration?
While most lawns can benefit from aeration, some need it more than others.
Elworthy says that aeration is more important for clay soils that are prone to compaction.
you might test for yourself if your soil is compacted by doing the screwdriver test, Elworthy says.
If its really difficult to get all the way down, your lawn could benefit from an aeration.
This is typically in late spring or early fall.
As for timing, Urbanek says that once a year is usually enough for most lawns.
If your lawn is heavily compacted, then a twice-annual aeration may be beneficial.
For sandy soils or healthy lawns, every two to three years may be adequate, he adds.
Youll need a lawnmower and a core aerator.
If you already own a riding lawnmower with a hitch, you could add a tow-behind aerator.
The point of this is to help soften the soil to help with the aeration.
Step 2: Mow Your Lawn
Mow your lawn the same day you plan to aerate.
Elworthy recommends mowing an inch or two lower than you usually do and bagging all the clippings.
The more holes the better, says Elworthy.
Note that core aeration leaves cores of soil on the surface of your lawn.
Leave these in place to break down and return nutrients to the surface of your yard.
This helps speed up the recovery and supercharges your results.
