What Is Aeration?
Aerating breaks the soil's surface by punching holes into the earth. There are several ways to do this. A plug aerator removes clumps or plugs of soil (about the size of your finger) from the ground. A core aerator ejects the plugs with every step. Spike aerators simply push holes into the soil.
Soil aeration gives your lawn a boost in several important ways:
- Oxygen and water are better able to enter the soil.
- Rainwater won't run off.
- Earthworms and other beneficial organisms have more room to live.
- Fertilizer can reach the grass roots.
These benefits lead to a healthier lawn with fewer weeds.
When to Aerate Your Lawn
The best time to aerate your lawn depends on the type of grass you grow. If you live in a cool northern region, you have cool-season grasses, which should be aerated in the fall. If you live in a warm southern region, you have warm-season grasses, which should be aerated in late spring.
How to Aerate Your Lawn
Self-propelled units, lawn tractor attachments and push models are available for aeration. Whichever tool you use, aerate your lawn using the same pattern as you would when mowing. Afterwards, rake to remove any soil plugs or wait for them to dissolve naturally. If you want, amend with compost or peat moss to further enrich the soil. You can also apply seed and fertilizer after aerating.