Proper Lawn Aeration Is a Must!
A lush, green lawn is the envy of every homeowner, but achieving that picture-perfect lawn requires more than just regular mowing and watering. One often overlooked but crucial aspect of lawn care is aeration. Lawn aeration is the process of perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, nutrients, and water to penetrate deep into the root zone of your grass. It’s a simple yet highly effective way to maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn. Here’s a lawn aeration guide that you can consider for your daily yard maintenance needs:
Prepare Your Lawn
Before aeration, it’s important to prepare your lawn. Mow your grass to a slightly shorter height than usual. Water your lawn thoroughly a day or two before aeration. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Mark any sprinkler heads, utility lines, or other obstacles to avoid damaging them during aeration.
Choose the Right Time
Aeration should be done during the growing season when your grass can recover quickly. In most regions, early fall or early spring is ideal. Avoid aerating during the heat of summer or during the dormant winter months when your grass won’t benefit as much from the process.
Use a Plug Aerator
When using a plug aerator, run the machine over your lawn in a pattern that covers the entire area. For best results, make two passes, with one pass in each direction. Ensure the holes are spaced about 2-4 inches apart. Leave the soil cores on the lawn; they will break down and return nutrients to the soil.
Post-Aeration Care
After aerating your lawn, apply a balanced fertilizer to provide nutrients that will encourage grass growth and recovery. If your lawn has thin or bare spots, overseeding immediately after aeration can help fill in these areas. Keep the soil consistently moist for a few weeks after aeration to facilitate root growth.
For your yard maintenance needs here in Litchfield Park, AZ, you may reach out to Advanced Ground Control for professional lawn services. To schedule an appointment, call us at (623) 250-3454 today!