It’s about to be that time again, when all of our warm season lawns are gearing into green up. However, as I drive around I still see many lawns that aren’t looking good at all yet. If you have concerns regarding your lawn, I always recommend aerating the lawn to improve its overall appearance, in conjunction to a good fertilizer program. Aerating lawns is one of the most important and neglected practices available for your lawn.

Lawns that receive regular aeration will be:

  • Greener
  • Easier to maintain
  • Suffer from fewer pest problems and disease

Aerating Lawns Also:

  • Helps control thatch build up
  • Improves the soil structure
  • Helps create growth pockets for new roots
  • Opens the way for water and fertilizer to get into the root zone of your lawn


SOIL COMPACTION – THE ENEMY OF LAWNS

An enemy of lawns is soil compaction. Soil compaction is a frequent cause of turf deterioration. It’s caused by lawn traffic, like walking and mowing. Soil compaction is greatest (or worse) in the top 2″ to 3″ of the soil. When soil gets compacted by walking or mowing, dirt particles are forced together. This is a big problem because it reduces the area where your lawns roots can grow. For you to maintain a healthy lawn through periods of stress, your lawn soil needs water, air, and nutrients in the top 6″ to 10″. Soils that are hard and compacted have no nooks and crannies to hold the water, air, or nutrients. Without these crucial components root growth is virtually impossible and greatly impeded to say the least. If your lawns roots aren’t growing, the grass won’t develop the root system that is essential to survive in hot/dry or harsh/cold periods.
Aerating lawns is really beneficial anyplace your lawn slopes too. If you aerate, water will soak in those sloped areas, instead of just running off quickly before it can soak in. You’ve noticed those dry slopes you have, it’s because the water just isn’t getting down to the roots. Aerating will help that problem. Of course, if you have any more questions or concerns about the health of your lawn, don’t hesitate to contact us.