Aeration is a type of lawn maintenance in which the soil is broken up to create pathways. This tactic allows the soil to soak up all of the nutrients it needs to thrive. In fact, aerating your lawn is one of the best things you can do to keep it healthy year after year. Here’s what you should know to have your lawn properly aerated.

How Does Aeration Work?

When you schedule this service, a lawn care professional will use an aerator to extract what’s known as soil plugs from your yard. These plugs are roughly one to six inches of compacted soil. Removing them at 2- to 6-inch intervals loosens the soil, which gives grass roots room to expand and provides space for water and nutrients to penetrate the ground.

What Are the Benefits?

Every time you walk on your lawn or mow it, you compact the soil a bit more. While seasonal thawing and earthworms help keep it relatively loose, most homeowners need their lawns aerated at least once or twice a year to break up the soil.

In addition to providing pathways for nutrients to reach the soil and plant roots, this technique can also promote a healthy balance of microorganisms, which help prevent disease in your lawn. If you also need to have new seed added to promote a fuller lawn, breaking up the soil can support germination, as it maximizes the soil-to-seed contact. Finally, looser soil can help decrease standing water and improve your lawn’s resilience.

When Is the Best Time to Aerate?

In general, lawn care experts advise homeowners to have their lawns aerated in the spring or fall. Early fall is the best time of year, as cooler temperatures support dampness. This will allow any new seed growth to germinate effectively, as the temperature and moisture levels support nutrient uptake and the rooting of existing grass. 

If you’re seeking professional irrigation, aeration, and lawn care services in Cincinnati, OH, and the surrounding areas, turn to Nature Plus Lawn & Irrigation. Their team helps local homeowners maintain lush, beautiful lawns, offering comprehensive services, including irrigation installation, aeration, fertilization, and mosquito control. Plan your treatments by viewing their lawn care calendar online, or call (513) 755-9434 to speak with a representative.