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The ideal time depends on your grass type: cool-season grasses should be aerated in early spring or fall, while warm-season grasses benefit most from late spring through early summer. Aerating during your grass's active growing season ensures faster recovery and stronger root development. Avoid aerating during dormancy, as it can stress the turf unnecessarily.
Most lawns should be aerated once a year to maintain healthy soil structure and root performance. However, if you have dense clay soil or your yard gets lots of foot traffic, aerating twice a year can be a game-changer. A consistent aeration schedule helps prevent compaction and keeps your lawn looking its best.
Manual core aerators work for small spaces, but they can be exhausting and time-consuming to use. For better results with less effort, many homeowners prefer hiring pros who bring commercial-grade equipment designed to cover more ground efficiently. Choosing the right aerator ensures even plug removal and deeper penetration into the soil.
Spike aerators simply push holes into the ground, which can sometimes make compaction worse by squeezing soil tighter around the hole. Core aeration, on the other hand, removes actual plugs of soil, which loosens the ground and improves airflow and nutrient absorption. For lasting results, core aeration is the superior method.
Yes, overseeding after aeration is one of the best ways to improve lawn thickness and fill bare patches. The holes left behind from aeration create perfect seed-to-soil contact, helping new grass germinate quickly. Combining both services gives you a denser, healthier lawn in less time.
It's best to fertilize after you've completed aeration because the nutrients can travel directly into the soil through the open holes. This makes your fertilizer more effective and promotes stronger root growth. Timing it this way also enhances microbial activity and boosts overall lawn health.
Give your lawn a little break—wait 24 to 48 hours before mowing, especially if you've also applied seed or fertilizer. This gives the soil time to settle and prevents disturbing the freshly loosened ground. Letting your lawn rest after aeration helps maximize the benefits of the treatment.
The plugs may look a bit odd at first, but they quickly break down with rain, watering, and mowing. Within a week or so, they decompose naturally, enriching your lawn with organic material. Think of them as mini compost piles working in your favor.
Yes, it's generally safe to walk on your lawn after core aeration, especially if you're watering or applying seed. Just be mindful not to compact the soil again by doing any heavy yard work or parking equipment on it. Light foot traffic won't hurt, and it can actually help push the new seed into the soil for better germination.
The holes from core aeration typically remain visible for 7 to 14 days, depending on weather, soil type, and how quickly your grass grows. With proper watering and fertilization, your lawn will bounce back quickly, and the holes will disappear as new growth fills in. The plugs themselves naturally break down and re-integrate into the soil.
You may notice small soil plugs scattered across your lawn after aeration, but that's totally normal and not considered a mess. Think of it as a temporary sign that your lawn is getting some much-needed TLC.
Yes, core aeration can significantly reduce water runoff by allowing moisture to soak deeper into the soil instead of pooling or sliding off. This improves water absorption and ensures your turf and roots get the hydration they need, especially on sloped or compacted lawns.
Don't let compacted soil or stubborn thatch stop your lawn from living its best life. With professional core aeration, you can give your lawn the boost it needs to grow thicker, greener, and stronger all year long. Ready to get started? Call Weed Pro today for a free quote, and let's core aerate your lawn the right way.
