Aeration—the process by which water, oxygen, and nutrients or fertilizers are incorporated into the soil through mechanical hole-punching—is just one of many services offered by a lawn care service, but is also one that people know very little about. Is it really so important and is your lawn a good candidate for aeration?
The process of aerating the soil is commonly prescribed for compacted soils deprived of key survival elements, including moisture, nutrients, and air. The roots of grass need these to flourish and remain green.
When your lawn is overpopulated with thatch—a strong layer of dead and living stems as well as roots lying in between the grass and the soil that interferes with the absorption of air and water—a lawn care service is again advisable.
Still, you might wonder if your lawn really needs such care to rebound. The answer is, “yes,” your lawn can definitely benefit from aeration if it falls victim to such deprivations and the following conditions.
Has poor soil composition
Clay-based soil compacts easily, providing an unhealthy base for lawn grass. Aeration, though, can resolve this problem by improving drainage and thereby allowing essential nutrients to seep deeper into the soil.
Receives moderate to heavy traffic daily
Excessive foot and wheel traffic can contribute to soil compaction when the lawn must serve as a playground, a race track, a driving surface or parking space. To help loosen compacted soil due to these impacts, consider aerating your lawn regularly, or consult a lawn care service provider about performing routine maintenance to your home.
Has begun showing the following signs
Watch out for telltale signs that your lawn may need a little more breathing room.
Thinning lawn grass. Stunted growth, both in humans and in plants, can indicate poor nutrition. In plants, however, it may be due to soil compaction. It often helps to loosen up soil to allow for better absorption of nutrients, air, and water.
Excessive water puddling. Excessive runoff on your lawn can also indicate a high degree of compaction, even when it is not raining heavily. This is due to poor water absorption in the semi-hardened soil. Again, this is alleviated by aeration.
Dry lawn that has a spongy feel. This could be an indication of excessive thatch buildup. Aeration is generally recommended for a thatch that is thicker than one-half inch.
In general, aeration can be what your lawn truly needs to stay in tip-top shape, and a professional lawn care service can be your best ally when it comes to a healthy lawn—one that is also lush, green, and attractive. So, give your lawn some room to breathe. It will thank you by maintaining a lush and healthy appearance.
Sources:
Let your lawn breathe: 3 signs it’s time to aerate, Allaboutlawns.com
Determining Soil Compaction: Is My Soil Too Compacted For Gardening, Gardeningknowhow.com
