Lawn Aeration Services, Woodland CABefore beginning the lawn aeration process, our lawn care professionals will assess the condition of your lawn and determine if aeration is necessary. Factors such as soil compaction, thatch buildup, and overall lawn health are taken into consideration. This evaluation helps determine the appropriate timing and method of aeration for your specific lawn.
There are two common methods of lawn aeration: core aeration and spike aeration. Core aeration, also known as plug aeration, is the most effective method. It involves using a specialized machine called a core aerator that removes small plugs or cores of soil from the lawn. Spike aeration uses solid tines or spikes to create holes in the soil without removing cores. If core aeration is determined to be the most suitable method for your lawn, our team will prepare the core aerator equipment. This includes ensuring the machine is in good working condition, the tines or blades are sharp, and adjusting the depth settings based on your lawn's needs. The core aerator is run over the lawn in a systematic pattern, creating evenly spaced holes or plugs in the soil. The depth of aeration depends on the soil type and condition but typically ranges from 2 to 4 inches. The plugs or holes allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deep into the soil, promoting root growth and alleviating compaction. In areas of severe compaction or heavy thatch buildup, our professionals may make multiple passes with the core aerator, ensuring adequate aeration coverage. Overlapping the passes helps ensure that the entire lawn area receives proper aeration. After the aeration process, the soil plugs or holes are left on the lawn surface. Over time, these plugs will break down and reintegrate into the soil, providing additional organic matter. If desired, our team can assist with the removal of the soil plugs, although leaving them on the lawn is generally beneficial. Aeration provides an ideal opportunity to overseed your lawn, as the holes and channels created by aeration allow the seeds to make direct contact with the soil. Additionally, if your lawn requires additional soil amendments or leveling, topdressing with a thin layer of compost or topsoil can be done immediately after aeration to enhance soil health and improve the lawn's overall appearance. Proper watering is essential after aeration to promote seed germination (if overseeding) and encourage root development. Our lawn care professionals will provide specific instructions on watering frequency and duration. Ongoing lawn care practices, such as regular watering, mowing, and fertilization, are crucial for maximizing the benefits of aeration and maintaining a healthy lawn. |
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