What is Lawn Aeration?
Simply put, lawn aeration is the act of putting holes in the surface of your grass so that oxygen can get down to the roots creating a more lushious lawn. We use and recommend a lawn aerator machine instead of the garden fork or spikes that some people use.
Did You Know?
Golf courses here in Scotland have pioneered the use of aeration machines dating back to the 1930s.
Before then they would lift the turf, dig up all the soil as deep as about 30cm (1 foot as it would have been to them) and then carefully smooth it all back out and relay the turf on top.
But Why Aerate Your Lawn?
We offer a lawn aeration service to house builders/developers and home owners because lawn soil becomes compacted quicker than you would think. This can result in lawn roots becoming water logged and lacking in oxygen, because as well as the grass above, the roots also breathe.
It is also part of the natural system during which microbes break down dead matter into natural fertiliser. These in turn nourish and feed your lawn which can only be a good thing. Additionally these microbes also need oxygen so aeration helps them too. And worms … if you aerate your lawn worms are also drawn to the soil who then bring with them more natural fertilisers. All of the above means your grass will green up much better with aeration than without.
One final point – aerating your lawn also helps prevent soggy patches and puddles in the grass. This is because it assists drainage.
Should I Use Spikes or an Aeration Machine?
Hollowtine Aeration Machine
For best results we recommend using a hollowtine aeration machine. This actually pulls plugs of soil out of the grass creating excellent oxygen conduits to the roots and other microbes that need it.
The plugs are left on top of the lawn because being mostly soil they will quickly break down and further nourish your it.
Spikes
Some people walk around the grass with spikes on their shoes or use a garden fork. However this is not a procedure we would recommend. The reason is because by pushing a sharp object into the ground you are actually compacting soil around the grass roots even more. You are literally compounding the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lawn Aeration
Can I use a fork to aerate my lawn?
We do not recommend it because using a fork may cause more harm than good. Instead we recommend hollowtine aeration which pulls out plugs of soil.
When is the best time for aeration?
We recommend aeration is done at the beginning and end of the growing season when there is some warmth and moisture in the soil. It has to be done at a time when the grass is in an active growing phase.
Will lawn aeration damage my grass?
Only if done incorrectly or at the wrong time. If the soil is too dry or too wet damage can be done so we assess your lawn before we commence work.
How often is lawn aeration needed?
TurfPlus recommend aeration is done twice a year for best results, together with a complete package which includes scarification and fertilisation.
Contact Us For A Beautiful Lawn
If you want a beautiful lawn which you can enjoy all summer long, get in touch. TurfPlus have been beautifying lawns for over 20 years, so call us on 0800 9757366 or email us at customer.services@turfplus.co.uk
You can also connect with us on LinkedIn.
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Help Your Lawn Breathe
