what is aeration

Landscaping

The answer to 'what is aeration' is aeration is the process of perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. This is an important lawn care practice that helps to alleviate soil compaction and improve the overall health and appearance of your lawn.

Aeration is typically done with a specialized machine that punches holes in the soil, either by using hollow tines that remove small plugs of soil or solid tines that simply poke holes. This process allows oxygen to reach the roots, which helps them grow deeper and become more drought-resistant. It also allows water and fertilizer to better penetrate the soil, leading to a thicker, greener lawn.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Rent or Hire an Aerator

    You can either rent a core aerator machine from a local hardware or lawn care store, or hire a professional landscaping company to aerate your lawn for you.

  2. 2

    Mark Sprinkler Heads

    Before aerating, make sure to mark any sprinkler heads or other underground utilities to avoid damaging them.

  3. 3

    Aerate the Lawn

    Run the aerator over your lawn, making multiple passes to ensure even coverage. The aerator should create 2-4 inch deep holes spaced 6-12 inches apart.

  4. 4

    Water and Fertilize

    After aerating, water your lawn thoroughly and apply a lawn fertilizer to help the grass recover and fill in the aeration holes.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I aerate my lawn?

The best time to aerate your lawn is typically in the fall, when the grass is actively growing. This allows the lawn to recover and fill in the aeration holes before the winter dormancy period.

How often should I aerate my lawn?

Most lawns should be aerated once a year, though high-traffic areas or compacted soils may benefit from aeration every 6 months to 1 year.

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