Question:
How do I aerate my lawn?
Golf Shoe Aeration
If you have a pair of golf shoes, you can wear them as you work in the lawn. Golf shoes don't actually aerate the soil, but they do punch holes in the thatch layer, allowing greater movement of water, air, nutrients and pesticides. The holes also allow soil-dwelling microbes to propagate and get to the thatch, thus speeding breakdown and delivering more nutrients to the soil.
Plug or Spike?
There are two types of aeration devices, the spike aerator, which punches holes in the sod without removing any soil, and the plug aerator, which removes small plugs of soil (about 3/8" thick and 1-1/4" long) and lays them across the lawn. The plug aerator is preferred, but the spike aerator is better than nothing if aeration is needed. If aeration is not needed, the spike aerator can actually make compaction worse because the holes are created by displacement and forces soil to the side rather than removing it. If you use a spike aerator, the aeration needs to be followed immediately by a topdressing of compost or peat moss. If you use a plugger, you need not topdress, though it does help.
Lawn Frequently Asked Questions
What are the DOīs and DONTīs of Lawn Care?
What kind of grass should I plant?
What is the best way to mow the lawn?
How do I get stripes like ballparks do?
What kind of weed is this? How do I get rid of it?
Why has my well manicured lawn has been invaded by disease?
What are some common lawn problems?
Do you have any tips for professionals?
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Why is my grass not doing well?
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What are some common lawn problems?
Can I use Weed and Feed on my lawn?
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What is the best way to mow the lawn?
Why did my grass turn brown after I fertilized?
Whatīs the best way to mow the lawn quickly?
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Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
How can I put a waterfall in my rock garden?
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Can I analyze the soil with a kit?
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Why should I mulch my clippings?
Which existing plants should I keep?
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Is it best to plant trees before or after shrubs?
Can I fertilize without adding a lot of chemicals?
What are guidelines for where to plant a tree?
What seed should I plant for the best results?
Where do I start to prune a garden?
What does too much pruning do?
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What are the benefits of pruning?
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Where can I get a soil analysis?
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How thick a branch will pruners trim?
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Should I build a large or small pool?
Why are there more fungi in the shady parts of the garden?
How much should I water a shade garden?
How can I prevent plant fungi?
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What soil should I use for shade gardening?
What advantages are there to shade gardening?
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