Recently I had a customer call and ask what “the thing you guys do that makes the lawn look like it is covered in little soil turds.” He wasn’t the first and I know he won’t be the last. In fact when I was a kid I would actively avoid walking through areas that were recently aerated because I didn’t know better and actually thought it was poop! But no need to worry, our aeration process at Erbert Lawns is poop free.
So what the heck is aeration anyway?
Aeration is a process that opens up compacted soil to allow nutrients, water, and air to get to the roots of your grass. It is extremely beneficial to your lawn and will bring out that beautiful green color you love!
When should an aeration be done?
Aerations should be done when the soil is cool, early spring and fall. This allows the grass to heal since it is not under the stress of the summer heat.
What kind of aerators are there?
There are two main types of aerators. There is the spike method which essentially works like a fork poking holes in the ground. This is an easy method that someone can do on their own with little experience, but it isn’t the best method as it doesn’t go very deep into the soil. Another option, the better one, is a plug aerator. That’s what we use here at Erbert Lawns, and we call our aerator Ryan. This machine creates 3 inch deep holes and pulls out the soil plugs, and these holes are about three inches apart.
So how do you know if your lawn needs an aeration?
We always like say if you like your lawn aerate once if year, but if you love your lawn do it twice a year! If your lawn tends to dry up in with the lack of humidity in Colorado or gets a lot of use (pets or gatherings on the lawn), then aeration is a must to maintain the lush green color year to year. If your lawn is starting to look sparse, overseeding (planting new grass) while aerating may be something to look into. It will require a lot of water for the two weeks following, but it will be worth it!
This is Ryan!
