Should You Aerate Your Lawn

By Jodi Nations

When a lawn appears unhealthy although it has been sufficiently watered and properly fertilized and problems such as worms, insects, and diseases have been eliminated as possible causes, individuals may want to consider aerating their lawn. Aerating becomes necessary when the soil becomes compacted. When the top four inches or so of topsoil becomes packed down and hardened, the soil cannot adequately absorb water and nutrients.

If grass is beginning to wilt and die, the lawn might be literally starving. Aeration will allow vital nutrients and water to sink deep into the roots and increases levels of oxygen throughout the soil. Increasing oxygen levels can encourage root growth and allows the lawn to weather periods of little water. Lawns that are aerated are generally healthier and more lush than lawns that don't receive proper aeration.

Properly aerated lawns require the expertise of professionals who know when and how often to aerate. The consistency of the soil and the type of grass are both factors when considering aeration. Often, soil that has a higher percentage of clay needs to be aerated in the spring and fall, while soil with more sand needs to be aerated in either the spring or fall. With warm-weather grasses, aerate in the late spring or early summer. For cool-weather grasses, like those in Colorado, early spring and late fall are the best times to aerate.

It is recommended that aerating be undertaken on a day with mild temperatures when the soil is a bit moist. Watering the lawn the day before aerating is suggested. The ground should be moist but not saturated. Aerating in high heat and drought is not advised. Additionally, weed problems should be under control prior to aerating, and newly laid sod should not be aerated until its roots have been well established.

Most people don't realize that aerating is essential to a healthy carpet of grass. While most homeowners don't own an aerator, either because of price or time constraints, aerating on a regular basis is highly recommended. That's where hiring a lawn care company to aerate makes good sense. Lawn care specialists can determine the type and frequency of the lawn's aeration needs. Hiring a lawn care professional to maintain the lawn's health and beauty is a wise and cost-effective move to ensure a lush, robust lawn. - 30228

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