aeration schedule

Landscaping

The answer to 'aeration schedule' is that most lawns should be aerated once or twice per year, typically in the spring and/or fall. Aeration involves punching small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the grassroots. This helps improve lawn health and growth by reducing soil compaction and thatch buildup.

The best time to aerate your lawn depends on your climate and grass type. Cool-season grasses like fescue or bluegrass should be aerated in the fall, while warm-season grasses like bermuda or zoysia do best with spring aeration. In general, aim to aerate when your grass is actively growing to maximize the benefits.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Prepare the lawn

    Mow the lawn and water it a day or two before aerating to soften the soil.

  2. 2

    Use an aerator machine

    Run the aerator over the entire lawn, making multiple passes in different directions to ensure even coverage.

  3. 3

    Overseed after aeration

    Apply grass seed to the aerated lawn to fill in bare spots and thicken the turf.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my lawn needs aeration?

Look for signs of soil compaction like standing water after rain or difficulty pushing a screwdriver into the ground. Lawns with heavy thatch buildup (over 1/2 inch) also benefit from regular aeration.

Can I aerate my lawn myself?

Yes, you can rent an aerator machine from a local home improvement store or lawn care supplier. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully for best results. For larger lawns or difficult soil conditions, it's often worth hiring a professional landscaping service to handle the aeration.

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