Aerating loosens compacted soil and allows more nutrients to reach roots.
What Is Lawn Aeration?
Aeration is the process of putting small holes into the soil.
Credit:Getty Images
Regions with clay soil are likely to have issues with compaction.
Sometimes, the lawn will give signals that aerating is needed.
Why Aerate Your Lawn?
“The process helps promote deeper root growth, which is vital for maintaining a healthy lawn.”
Because tiny holes are poked into the soil surface, more nutrients can reach greater soil depths.
“Proper aeration creates channels for water and fertilizer to penetrate the soil more effectively,” says Feldman.
Overseeding is when you add more grass seeds to your lawn.
This can be a perfect time to overseed as you’re already adding tiny holes throughout your turf.
The time to aerate depends on the grass bang out.
Aerating in the incorrect season could have negative consequences for your lawn.
Warm-Season Grasses
Aeration is typically done in the spring or early summer before it gets too hot.
Cool-Season Grasses
Cool-season grasses include Kentucky Bluegrass, Tall Fescue, and Perennial Ryegrass.
Aeration is usually done at the end of summer and in fall after the hot weather.
Sometimes, aeration can be done in the spring for specific situations, such as compacted soil.
Evaluate if aeration makes sense as aerating can cause more weeds to grow.
“Generally, most lawns thrive with aeration every 1 to 5 years,” says Smith.
Experts typically recommend annual aeration but can vary based on your specific turf.
DIY Aeration Vs.
The lawn can’t be too wet or too dry for aerating, either.
“Experts can assess the soils moisture and adjust aeration timing accordingly,” he adds.
DIY is usually less expensive and can be rewarding once you complete the job.
However, it does require renting equipment or borrowing from a neighbor and having the time to do it.
Renting an aerator is a cost-effective option for occasional aeration, says Smith.
She recommends starting with a small area first to familiarize yourself and get comfortable before aerating the whole yard.
