Why You Should Aerate Your Lawn

When a lush, green lawn is the goal, it can take more than just mowing and watering. Core aeration is a crucial practice in turfgrass management that’s often overlooked, but the results speak for themself. If you’re wondering how core aeration keeps your lawn healthy, read on!

What is Core Aeration?

Core aeration involves perforating soil with small holes to alleviate compaction and remove thatch—matted layers of dead and living matter that accumulate. This is best done with specialized machinery that removes small plugs or “cores” from the ground, promoting better air, water and nutrient circulation in the process.

When to Aerate Your Lawn

The best time for core aeration depends on the type of grass you have:

Cool-Season Lawns (Fescue/Bluegrass/Ryegrass/Etc.)

Aerate cool-season grasses during fall seeding/overseeding to ensure the best possible seed-to-soil contact (this is crucial for good germination and lawn establishment).

Warm-Season Lawns (Bermuda/Zoysia/Centipede/Etc.)

Aeration for warm-season grasses should ideally take place between May and the end of July. If you haven’t taken advantage of this service yet, there may still be time to act if the heat cooperates.

The Benefits of Core Aeration

Enhance Oxygen and Water Absorption

Soil compaction is a common issue that impedes the flow of air, water and other nutrients to roots. Core aeration breaks up compacted soil, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the root system. This increased absorption helps grass thrive even during hot, dry periods.

Stimulate Root Growth

With improved access to air and water, roots are able to grow deeper and stronger. Deep root systems improve your lawn’s overall health and means less damage from external stressors, like foot traffic.

Increase Nutrient Uptake and Fertilizer Efficiency

When nutrients are evenly distributed and can reach the root zone more easily, your lawn can make better use of fertilizer. This not only optimizes the effectiveness of fertilization but also reduces the risk of nutrient runoff and leaching.

Reduce Thatch Build-Ups

Core aeration breaks up thatch layers, making it easier for microorganisms to break down organic matter and return valuable nutrients to the soil.

Improve Overall Lawn Health

By accomplishing all of the above, core aeration leads to a healthier lawn overall. While core aeration can’t guarantee complete protection from disease or pests, your lawn will grow stronger and bounce back at a faster rate during periods of stress.

Expertly Aerate Your Lawn with Fairway Green

Give your grass the gift of core aeration with the professionals at Fairway Green. Schedule your free lawn estimate today—your lawn will thank you!