How To Aerate Your Lawn
Even the most verdant green lawn needs some basic care from one year to the next. While it might look like your grass is just growing out of the dirt, there is actually a lot more to a healthy lawn than simple soil and roots.
Your lawn is made up of turf, which has multiple layers. The blades of grass you cut with your lawnmower simply represent the uppermost layer, but they rely on healthy conditions in the underlying soil to thrive.
Signs Of A Turf Health Problem
At first glance, it might seem hard to tell what’s really going on under the blades of grass. Yet if you take a closer look you might just find signs that your turf is trying to tell you it’s having trouble. This could include things like:
- Dead patches
- Slow grass growth
- Discolored areas in the grass caused by a fungus
- Overly hard feeling
Problems Caused By Excess Thatch
Unless you have a bagging mower, grass clippings are inevitably going to end up on your turf every time you mow your lawn. As time goes on these spent clippings, known as “Thatch” will migrate down to the level where the roots of your grass meet the soil.
If the clippings are small enough, and conditions are relatively moist, the thatch will simply decompose and feed essential nitrogen back to the turf. This is one of the things that makes mulching mowers so attractive. The blade dynamics and speed are setups to virtually mince the blades of grass to increase the chances of them breaking down. Though it’s not guaranteed. Overly dry weather or an excessive volume of thatch left behind can still dry out rather than decompose.
If the clippings are long, or conditions are overly dry, the thatch can start to accumulate at the top of the turf. Over time they can become so thick and interwoven that water struggles to saturate down to the roots where your grass can use it.
Soil Compaction And Aeration
Of course, thatch buildup isn’t the only thing that can affect the overall health of your turf. In fact, your turf needs a certain amount of air space for drainage, as well as to host beneficial soil microbes. As time goes on overly dry or overly wet conditions can cause soil particles to settle out and fill in the air spaces in your turf. This essentially chokes it out and makes it harder for the turf to support healthy grass.
Soil compaction is a process that tends to happen gradually over the course of an entire summer growing season.
Aeration Helps Maintain Healthy Turf
Aeration is the process of increasing air space in the turf layers as well as the underlying soil. There are a few different ways to do it, but essentially the process calls for making small, consistent holes in your turf. Some methods call for taking out plugs, while others simply call for making a puncture in the turf down to the underlying soil.
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Aerate My Lawn?
Spring and early summer tend to be the best times of year to aerate your lawn. This gives your turf and your grass time to rebuild and grow without any long-term damage. Though there are certain parts of the country where the growing season is long, where fall aeration might also be advisable.
You want to make sure that the soil is properly moist. The day after a spring or summer rain shower or 12 hours after a heavy irrigation session is usually best.
What Is The Best Aeration Method?
The best aeration method for your lawn will depend on the size of your lawn, the current state of your turf, and your budget. While there are a lot of different devices, lawn aeration essentially breaks down into either the spike method or the plug method.
The Pros And Cons Of Spike Aeration
As the name implies a spike aerator is a simple tool with a sharp end that it designed to poke small holes into the turf. This might be a manual tool like a fork with tines, or a special slip-on device that you simply slip onto the bottom of a stiff hiking boot. Though there are some devices that you can push across the lawn or pull behind a lawn tractor that will make the job faster and spare you from what could amount to a very long walk around your own backyard.
The drawback of the spike method is that it’s not all that effective for severely compacted turf. You could also end up damaging sensitive areas that have been affected by lawn pests or fungal problems.
Best Spike Aerators For Your Lawn
Jumbo Varieties Lawn Aerator Shoes - Comfortable Grass Aerating Spike Sandals for...
- ✅ KEEP YOUR GRASS HEALTHY & LUSH: Make sure that air, water and nutrients reach deeper into your yard soil and add thickness to your grass with the Jumbo Varieties premium aerating shoes for lawn!
- ✅ SAVE YOUR TIME, EFFORT & MONEY: The smart one-strap design will allow you to easily put on and remove your spike shoes for grass. Plus, the nonslip metal buckle will ensure a comfy and tight fit.
- ✅ KEEP YOUR GRASS HEALTHY & LUSH: Make sure that air, water and nutrients reach deeper into your yard soil and add thickness to your grass with the Jumbo Varieties premium aerating shoes for lawn!
- ✅ SAVE YOUR TIME, EFFORT & MONEY: The smart one-strap design will allow you to easily put on and remove your spike shoes for grass. Plus, the nonslip metal buckle will ensure a comfy and tight fit.
- ✅ FEEL THE DIFFERENCE WITH EVERY STEP: Reach deep-rooted soil and invigorate your grass with our lawn aeration shoes, which features a sturdy plastic base and industrial-grade rust-proof spikes!
- ✅ MUST-HAVE LAWN SHOES WITH 26 SPIKES: Our convenient and easy-to-use yard aerating sandals with spikes will allow you to bring new life to your lawn thanks to the 26 x 2.2-inch spikes. All you have to do is wear them and walk around!
- ✅ 100% RISK-FREE GUARANTEE + A BONUS SHOVEL: We confidently back our yard aerator shoes with a full-refund guarantee and proudly offer you an EXTRA stainless steel shovel for all your gardening needs.
![Earthgears [2020 Upgrade Model] Lawn Aerator Shoes Fully Assembled E-Z FIT Strap...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51B-qeOt81L._SL500_.jpg)
Earthgears [2020 Upgrade Model] Lawn Aerator Shoes Fully Assembled E-Z FIT Strap...
![Earthgears [2020 Upgrade Model] Lawn Aerator Shoes Fully Assembled E-Z FIT Strap...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51SYzcIc4zL._SL500_.jpg)
![Earthgears [2020 Upgrade Model] Lawn Aerator Shoes Fully Assembled E-Z FIT Strap...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51W4kuF3xEL._SL500_.jpg)
![Earthgears [2020 Upgrade Model] Lawn Aerator Shoes Fully Assembled E-Z FIT Strap...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61DPH08rzGL._SL500_.jpg)
![Earthgears [2020 Upgrade Model] Lawn Aerator Shoes Fully Assembled E-Z FIT Strap...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61uhP3rwZdL._SL500_.jpg)
GARDENKORE Lawn Aerator Shoes -Heavy Duty Spiked Sandals w/ 8 Double Layer...
- DURABLE HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS ALL AROUND; These Aerator shoes are made of a solid long-lasting polypropylene and HDPE base that could withstand up to 400lbs; the base includes a sturdy built-in fastener system that keeps the spikes very tight with the shoe using high quality metal washers first then the Spike-nuts; unlike most other aerator shoes that doesn't come with this advanced system which allows them to break easily and their spikes come off within the first time of use
- DURABLE HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS ALL AROUND; These Aerator shoes are made of a solid long-lasting polypropylene and HDPE base that could withstand up to 400lbs; the base includes a sturdy built-in fastener system that keeps the spikes very tight with the shoe using high quality metal washers first then the Spike-nuts; unlike most other aerator shoes that doesn't come with this advanced system which allows them to break easily and their spikes come off within the first time of use
- SUPERIOR BUILD OF 26 HEAVY DUTY 2.4IN SPIKES; These Aerator Shoes are tested to aerate even the most packed soil; and we found that they are more effective with 13 Heavy duty 2.4in spikes on each shoe; that being said let water; fertilizer; nutrients and air get down to reach the core of the grass roots and improve the health of the lawn as well as promoting a greener yard or garden; To save your investment we also included SPARE PARTS [5 nails; 5 washers; 5 nuts] and A WRENCH
- 8 LONG AND THICK ADJUSTABLE DOUBLE LAYER STRAPS WITH 8 ALUMINIUM METAL BUCKLES; Secure tightly with one easy buckle pull and keep any size of shoe or boot in place; To enhance the overall performance and experience we also added 3 MINI GARDENING TOOLS to take with you during the aeration; Every mini shovel tool comes handy and could help you clean the mud sticking under the sandals after done aerating
- PRE-ASSEMBLED AERATOR SHOES; UNIVERSAL SIZE FITS ALL; Simply take these fully assembled Aerator Shoes out of the box; strap them on and start walking and aerating your lawns; No assembly required which could be time consuming and hard; furthermore it saves you from the hustle of dealing with a situation when finding important assembly parts missing; Our Aerator shoes aren't only an inexpensive alternative to the aeration services but also a great way to workout your calves and thighs
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE; We will never sacrifice quality for the price; We know we are not the cheapest option in the market; but we also know that we provide our clients with the finest and high-end products and the best after-sale service; Our Lawn Aerator shoes is backed by our manufacturer 1-Year free replacement warranty, a 1-Year money back guarantee and 3-Years limited warranty; Please feel free to contact us if you have any request, we will solve your problem within 24 hours
Brinly SA-40BH Tow Behind Spike Aerator, 40-Inch
- Please Note: Amazon is the only Authorized Seller of this Brinly product on Amazon, all other marketplace sellers are unauthorized. Purchases from unauthorized marketplace sellers may not be covered by Brinly's product warranty.
- Please Note: Amazon is the only Authorized Seller of this Brinly product on Amazon, all other marketplace sellers are unauthorized. Purchases from unauthorized marketplace sellers may not be covered by Brinly's product warranty.
Agri-Fab 45-0544 40" Spike Aerator, Black
- 40" weight tray holds 100 lbs for soil penetration
- 10 galvanized steel spike disks for thorough aeration
- Folding hitch for easy storage
- Easy assembly
- Easy maintenance
- 40" weight tray holds 100 lbs for soil penetration
- 10 galvanized steel spike disks for thorough aeration
- Folding hitch for easy storage
- Easy assembly
- Easy maintenance
- 3 Year Limited Warranty
CRAFTSMAN CMXGZBF7124336 36 Tow Spike Aerator, Red
- Large 36 in. Working width covers larger areas at once
- 10-Gauge steel frame is extremely durable
- Enclosed Weight tray holds up to 80 lb. For increased soil penetration
- Universal design works will all brands of riding mowers and tractors
- Large 36 in. Working width covers larger areas at once
- 10-Gauge steel frame is extremely durable
- Enclosed Weight tray holds up to 80 lb. For increased soil penetration
- Universal design works will all brands of riding mowers and tractors
- Adjustable hitch accommodates different tractor heights
- 9 star-shaped Spikes penetrate deep into the soil
The Pros And Cons Of Plug Aeration
A plug aerator essentially cuts small cores out of your turf, which allows the surrounding material to gradually fill the void. The process essentially opens up air space in the surrounding soil for roots to expand and microbes to thrive.
While there are some manual tools for this task, you will usually get better results from a machine. Ideally, you want one that removes soil plugs that are roughly 2 to 3 inches deep and approximately 0.5 to 0.75 inches in diameter. Spacing should be around 2 to 3 inches apart.
You can usually find them at a rental company in the spring. Though the price is sometimes a little high, and since they are in demand for homeowners as well as lawn care companies, the waiting list is usually long.
If you have a relatively large yard of half an acre or larger you might want to consider purchasing a plug aerator. Then you know you have it on hand. You might even find a neighbor or two who want to go in with you on buying one.
The Best Plug Aerators For Your Lawn
Yard Butler Lawn Coring Aerator Manual Grass Dethatching Turf Plug Core Aeration...
- LAWN DETHATCHER: The Yard Butler Lawn Coring Aerator revitalizes old lawns while using less water and fertilizer. By removing two 3-1/2 inch cores, the Lawn Coring Aerator reduces compaction and dethatches your lawn while letting air, water and fertilizer get down to the roots of your yard.
- LAWN DETHATCHER: The Yard Butler Lawn Coring Aerator revitalizes old lawns while using less water and fertilizer. By removing two 3-1/2 inch cores, the Lawn Coring Aerator reduces compaction and dethatches your lawn while letting air, water and fertilizer get down to the roots of your yard.
- DURABLE: The Yard Butler lawn aerator tool was built to last with durable steel construction. The powder-coated steel is heavy-duty and rust-resistant. Cushioned handles provide additional grip. Yard Butler Pro Tools are designed to last a lifetime.
- PRODUCE STRONG & HEALTHY ROOT SYSTEM: It is a high-performance tool that will make a big difference in the vital health and survival of grass. It promotes vigorous root growth, reduces water runoff, strengthens tolerance to drought and heat stress, and helps avoid using excess grass supplements or fertilizers.
- EASY TO USE: Our 37-inch yard aerator lets you tend to your lawn without back strain. The foot bar provides extra leverage for quick and comfortable push so you can aerate your whole yard efficiently and easily. This type of lawn aerator works best when you pre soak the lawn before using it if you have hard, dry soil.
- LIFETIME GUARANTEE: Stop buying plastic or cheap metal products that don't hold up over the years. Yard Butler products are designed to last a lifetime and if you have a problem with our tools we make it right.
Step 'N Tilt Core Lawn Aerator Version 3 (with Container)
- ASSEMBLY IS REQUIRED. Step 'N Tilt lawn aerator is fast and easy to use. Simply step and tilt. This patented lawn aerator (U.S. Patent No. 8,714,275, 11,147,202 and other patents pending) makes core aeration easy and enjoyable for do-it-yourselfers (DIYers) and professional landscapers. New and improved clog-resistant tines. Case-hardened for extra durability. The tines may be sharpened or replaced when worn.
- ASSEMBLY IS REQUIRED. Step 'N Tilt lawn aerator is fast and easy to use. Simply step and tilt. This patented lawn aerator (U.S. Patent No. 8,714,275, 11,147,202 and other patents pending) makes core aeration easy and enjoyable for do-it-yourselfers (DIYers) and professional landscapers. New and improved clog-resistant tines. Case-hardened for extra durability. The tines may be sharpened or replaced when worn.
- For use in areas with grass only; tines will clog if used in bare soil. All core lawn aerators require that the soil be VERY moist. This Step 'N Tilt is no exception. Please aerate one day after at least one inch of rain or irrigation. If you have a sprinkler system, each sprinkler zone will need to run for 60-90 minutes. In other words, the soil must be very moist. Question: Why must I wait one day? Answer: Because it takes time for water to be absorbed into the soil, particularly clay soil.
- Designed for operators between 4-feet and 6-feet 5-inches tall. Recommended minimum operator weight to use one set and two sets of tines are 80lbs and 150lbs, respectively. Recommended for aerating small yards or areas not accessible by motorized lawn aerators. It can be used to aerate large yards but will require significantly longer time and effort than a motorized lawn aerator.
- This unit comes with an optional soil core container. A soil core remover is included. Designed for all kinds of soil, including heavy clay soil - make sure the soil is very moist but not wet. If the tines clog, the soil may be too dry or too wet for aeration. If the tines are unable to penetrate the ground and clogging, the soil is definitely too dry.
- Please remember to aerate when the soil is VERY MOIST only. Some assembly is required.
Brinly PA-40BH Tow Behind Plug Aerator, 40-Inch
- 24 heat-treated plugging spoons
- Durable, all steel design
- Easy transport with 10" semi-pneumatic rubber tread tires
- Each plugging spoon is individually serviceable
- Includes assembly skin pack with parts break down and full pictorial instructions.
- 24 heat-treated plugging spoons
- Durable, all steel design
- Easy transport with 10" semi-pneumatic rubber tread tires
- Each plugging spoon is individually serviceable
- Includes assembly skin pack with parts break down and full pictorial instructions.
Agri-Fab Tow Behind Plug Aerator, 40"
- 40-Inch wide working width
- 24 Galvanized and sharpened plug coring knives
- 10" x 3" Pneumatic Tires allow for smooth transport
- Single lever transport handle folds for storage
- 3 - Year Limited Warranty
- 40-Inch wide working width
- 24 Galvanized and sharpened plug coring knives
- 10" x 3" Pneumatic Tires allow for smooth transport
- Single lever transport handle folds for storage
- 3 - Year Limited Warranty
CRAFTSMAN CMXGZBF7124213 40 Tow Plug Aerator, Red
- 24 galvanized Steel coring points pull plugs from your lawn up to 3 in. Deep
- Prepares soils for spring or fall planting
- Wide Width Weight tray supports up to 140 lb. Of ballast for tougher coring action
- Flat free tires roll smoothly over your lawn
- 24 galvanized Steel coring points pull plugs from your lawn up to 3 in. Deep
- Prepares soils for spring or fall planting
- Wide Width Weight tray supports up to 140 lb. Of ballast for tougher coring action
- Flat free tires roll smoothly over your lawn
- Release on the lift handle with easy-to-store design that can be stored against a wall
- Durable heavy-gauge steel deck and welded Drawbar
- Simple-to-use Cantilever transport handle for easy raising and lowering
- 40 in. Aeration path
Mantis 7321 Power Tiller Aerator/Dethatcher Combo Attachment for Gardening
- Aerator and Dethatched Attachment Combo Pack for the Mantis 7000 Series Tiller/Cultivators
- Aerator perfect for use in compact, clay soil
- Lawn care attachments are not recommended for surface-rooted grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, and St. Augustine) because it can damage the root system
- Aerator and Dethatched Attachment Combo Pack for the Mantis 7000 Series Tiller/Cultivators
- Aerator perfect for use in compact, clay soil
- Lawn care attachments are not recommended for surface-rooted grasses (Bermuda, Zoysia, Centipede, and St. Augustine) because it can damage the root system
- Aerator cuts into soil under the lawn; dethatched quickly removes thatch
- 60 spring-steel picks dethatch a 15-inch swath with a single pass
- Tiller sold separately, Not compatible with the Mantis XP tiller or the Mantis 3550 and 3558 tiller models
Strongway Drum Plug Aerator - 36in.W, 6in. Plugs
- 54 separate 6in. plugs can penetrate deep, helping you to get water and nutrients to the roots of plants
- 18in. dia., 36in.W drum can be filled with water, offering a total filled weight of 490 lbs. that sinks the plugs to the maximum depth, increasing aerating performance
- 54 separate 6in. plugs can penetrate deep, helping you to get water and nutrients to the roots of plants
- 18in. dia., 36in.W drum can be filled with water, offering a total filled weight of 490 lbs. that sinks the plugs to the maximum depth, increasing aerating performance
- Plugs are removable for sharpening or replacement
- Has a pin-style hitch for easy pulling
- Durable metal frame features a powder-coated finish to help resist rust
