I've been wondering about lawn aeration, where you pull out those dirt plugs from your lawn. What exactly is it called, and when is the best time of year to do it?
3 Answers
Make sure you're using a core aerator! When people just poke holes, it can actually make the soil more compacted. Core aeration pulls out plugs and allows air circulation, especially crucial if you have clay soil. Fall is typically the best time—late September works great for me.
I usually aerate and overseed in the fall so the seeds are ready to sprout once spring hits. If you’ve got compacted soil, doing core aeration is key because it helps get air to the roots. Plus, those plugs break down and improve the soil!
You’re talking about lawn aeration! For cool-season grasses like bluegrass and fescue, it’s best to aerate in early spring or early fall. If you have warm-season grass like Bermuda or St. Augustine, aim for late spring to early summer.