Benefits of Core Aerating Your Lawn
Don't overlook problems associated with soil compaction.
Benefits of Aeration
There are many benefits to aerating a lawn. Over the course of a season, mowing, traffic on the lawn, rain etc., compacts the topsoil to where it is difficult for rain water to penetrate the surface causing run off and causes less air flow to the root system resulting in grass that looks choked or depleted of its nutrients.
Core aeration is the process of removing small plugs of thatch and soil of up to 4 inches in length from the lawn to improve air flow in the soil. Its benefits include:
Improved air exchange between the soil and atmosphere
Enhanced water intake
Improved fertilizer uptake and use
Reduced water runoff and puddling
Stronger grass roots
Reduce soil compaction
Enhanced heat and drought stress tolerance
Improved resiliency & cushioning
Enhanced thatch breakdown
Picciotti Lawn & Landscaping, LLC recommends aerating once per year on lawns with high traffic areas and every other year for all others. The best time of year to aerate is either during the spring before the warm weather arrives or during the fall after the warm weather has left. Spring aeration is very effective as it enhances the fertilization process creating a healthier lawn which is more sustainable during warm weather.
Benefits of Aeration & Over Seeding
All the benefits of aeration listed above plus
Helps fill in bare spots
Improves turf density and color
Helps lawn withstand damage from insects, disease, drought, shady conditions and heavy traffic
Reduces the amount of pesticides necessary to control insects, grubs and weeds
Increases the lawn's drought tolerance and improves its overall health