Lawns are an investment, so you want to make sure you are taking care of them properly. One crucial part of the lawn care process is aeration. Aeration is the process of perforating the lawn to release CO2 and allow oxygen to the plant roots. Aeration also removes thatch and increases drainage.

The best way to aerate your lawn depends on the size of the space, what structures and obstacles the yard includes and your own preferences for handling the job. You can DIY the job with an aerator or manually with garden tools, but you might also hire experienced lawn professionals to help ensure optimal outcomes from aeration.

With an Aerator

Perhaps the most efficient way to handle lawn aeration is with a machine designed to get the job done quickly. You can buy or rent aerators, and there are several types to choose from.

Manual vs. Power Aerators

The main difference between these two types of aerators is that manual aerators require a person to provide the force that ensures the spikes or cores aerate the ground. Using these devices can be time-consuming and tiring, particularly if you have a very large yard. Power aerators are operated with the help of gas or electric power, removing a lot of the physical work from the job. It’s similar to the difference between a manual push lawn mower and a self-propelled lawn mower.

Core vs. Spike Aerators

The other major difference between aerators is whether they create space in the soil with spikes or cores. Spike aerators have sharp points that are driven into the ground, creating small intentions a couple inches deep. Core aerators have small hollow cylinders that are driven into the ground. When the cylinders come up, they remove a core of soil, leaving a small hole.

Without an Aerator

Aeration is possible without an aerator via manual work with garden tools. You can complete this work by using any appropriate tool to poke holes throughout the soil or remove cores from the soil. Options include:

• Garden forks. If you need to aerate a small portion of lawn, you can use a garden fork with two to four tines. Press the fork down into the soil so that the tines penetrate 1-2 inches. Grip the handle of the fork and move it back and forth some to widen the holes. Lift up the fork and repeat the process every few inches throughout the space you want to aerate.
• Shovels. You could do some aeration with a shovel by driving it into the ground a few inches to cut down into the soil. Repeat this throughout the space. Be cautious about this method, as a large shove could cause more damage than you intend.
• Aeration shoes. You can buy special shoe attachments with spikes on the soles. This lets you aerate a yard as you walk around in it.

Why You Should Aerate Your Lawn

Aeration is a vital part of the lawn care process. Here are some reasons why you should consider aerating your lawn.

Release Compacted Soil

As time goes on, the soil becomes compacted. This is especially true in areas that are often walked. As this happens, air and water cannot easily penetrate the soil. If this happens, grass will die off, and weeds will begin to grow. This can be fixed with aeration. Once this soil is exposed, it will release and allow oxygen and water to enter. This will help revitalize your lawn and help it flourish once again.

Decrease Water Use

The deeper the grassroots are, the more water they will be able to absorb. If your lawn is in dire need of aeration, it probably isn’t absorbing a lot of water. This could be due to compaction. Aeration will increase the absorption by allowing water and air to go deeper into the soil.

Increase Air Use

Compacted soil also makes it difficult for air and oxygen to be absorbed. When the soil is aerated, this encourages air exchange. This will allow the roots to breathe easier and let your lawn thrive.

Protect Your Lawn

Aeration also protects your lawn from drought stress as the plant roots will grow deeper in search of water and nutrients. If soil is not aerated properly, it can prevent a deep healthy root system. Aeration also helps recovery from insects that damage your turf.

When Is the Best Time to Aerate Your Lawn?

The best time to aerate your lawn depends on the condition of your lawn and growing region. It can be done throughout the year, except for when it is winter and during the warm summer months. It may take some trial and error to find out when your lawn needs aeration. In general, it is best to aerate in early spring or fall.

Spring

Spring aeration is best for a healthy lawn. If your lawn is suffering from drought or even overwatering, it is not the time to aerate. It is also best to aerate in the early spring to get it ready for summer. Many lawns need aeration in the spring to bring them back to their beautiful green state.

Fall

Fall aeration is recommended for healthy lawns. Fall aeration will help with de-thatching and nutrient uptake. This is especially true for lawns that have not been managed properly in the fall. The fall is also the best time to aerate homeowners’ lawns. It will help with any damage that occurred in the previous season and get them ready for a new one.

Aeration and Overseeding

At Lawn Doctor, we recommend following up core aeration with overseeding to support a healthy lawn. This technique, alongside other lawn care best practices, can help create a lush, beautiful lawn.

Work With Lawn Doctor

Caring for your lawn can be a big job, and overdoing or undergoing tasks like aeration and overseeding can negatively impact the aesthetics and health of your yard. The team at Lawn Doctor can take care of aeration and overseeding so you know it’s done correctly. Contact us today to learn more about our services.