Aeration is a process that mechanically removes plugs of soil and deposits them on the top of the soil surface. As these cores break down, the surrounding soil, now relieved of compaction, the oxygen will fill in the holes. At this time, it is most beneficial to overseed your lawn with the most desirable blends of turf grass. Newer varieties of seed are proven to have higher resistance to disease, greater ability to withstand drought, and in many cases, better appearance than older cultivars.
Benefits and Results of Aeration
- Maintains the healthy, thick appearance of your lawn
- Reduces soil compaction for better growth
- Helps keep thatch under control
- Less insect and disease activity
How to know when your lawn needs core aeration
Core aeration offers many benefits for your lawn, and has proven to be one of the most essential processes in maintaining a healthy, thick lawn. The process opens up the lawn by removing small plugs of soil and thatch, allowing more air, water and nutrients to reach the root zone, leading to better plant growth. The microorganisms in the plugs that remain on the surface will dissolve back into the thatch layer to help it breakdown, naturally. The process also reduces compaction.
Thatch is the intermingled layer of roots, stems and other natural material that build up at the soil surface. Some thatch (1/2 inch or less) is desirable as it will act as a cushion and help protect the lawn from temperature extremes. When thatch exceeds an 1/2 inch, it will reduce lawn vigor and increase insect and disease problems.
Benefits and Results
- Increases access to air, water and nutrients
- Better plant growth
- Reduced compaction
- Natural soil breakdown