Aeration and Overseeding
In order to achieve and maintain a beautiful lawn there are many best practices that can be put in place. Mowing, fertilizing, watering, aeration and seeding all play an important role in achieving that perfect lawn. Aeration helps the roots grow deeply and produce a stronger, more vigorous lawn by perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots.
Should you be aerating your lawn? The main reason for aerating is to alleviate soil compaction. Compacted soils prevent proper circulation of air, water and nutrients within the soil. Excess lawn thatch or heavy organic debris buried under the grass surface can also starve the roots from these essential elements. A few question that you may want to consider:
Does your lawn get heavy use? Are you the “Kool-Aid” house where all the neighborhood kids come to play? Do you have large pets that run through the yard frequently? Both of these scenarios can contribute to soil compaction.
Was your lawn established as part of a newly constructed home? Often the topsoil of a newly constructed home is compacted from the construction equipment.
When is the best time to Aerate and Seed your lawn? The best time to aerate your lawn is in late summer or early fall, as this will allow your grass to recover completely before going dormant in the winter.
Should I overseed after aeration? Overseeding is most successful when done after aeration in the fall. The loose soil will give the seeds more opportunity to germinate.
Is lawn aeration a DIY project? Lawn aeration is a DIY-friendly project, but keep in mind that you will need to rent and transport the equipment. Renting the equipment ranges from $75 - $350 per day depending on the type of equipment that you rent. Depending on the size of your lawn it will take lots of muscle power and a full day of work. Hiring a professional can likely give you better results and may be better for larger lawns or those with more complicated landscaping to ensure a healthy and beautiful lawn.
Are you looking for a professional to give you advice or complete your aeration and overseeding? We are now scheduling aeration appointments, starting September 15 for York, Dover and the surrounding Central Pennsylvania Areas.
