Aeration can unlock the secret to lush, healthy turf

Have you ever wondered why your neighbor’s lawn is greener than yours? It could be because your neighbor aerates.

But what is aeration and how does it work?

Aeration is the process of piercing or removing small plugs of soil from your lawn. This creates space for new root growth, strengthens the root system, and makes your grass more resistant to stress caused by the harsh Florida climate. By aerating your lawn, you cut down on the tough thatch that develops at the base of your sod. Breaking down the thatch improves the air and water circulation from root to tip.

How often should I aerate my lawn?

The typical recommendation for a standard lawn is to aerate once in the spring and again in the fall. But with the Florida climate remaining warm year-round, we can get away with only once a year. The exact time and season depends on the type of grass you have. Turf grasses, such as Zoysia, Bermudagrass, and St. Augustinegrass, do best when aerated mid-spring to early summer. Perennial and ornamental grasses prefer early fall.

There are several ways to aerate your lawn:

Aeration shoes or sandals have spikes on the bottom that puncture the soil, creating small holes for air and water to penetrate. Simply put them on and walk around your lawn.

A manual aerator is a tool you can find at your local hardware or garden store. It has hollow tines that you push into the ground to remove small plugs of soil.

A power aerator is a machine you can rent from a local equipment store. It has hollow tines and works much like the manual aerator, recommended for larger plots of land.

A spike aerator rolls solid tines over the lawn. These spikes puncture the soil, but do not remove plugs. While this method is effective, it is not as effective as the aerator that removes plugs of soil.

Whatever method you choose, be sure to water your lawn well the day before, and avoid aerating when the soil is too saturated from recent heavy rain, or too dry.

Aerating your lawn is a simple and effective way to give your landscape the boost it needs. And for a greener, happier lawn, consider calling the experts at Slug-A-Bug. Ask us about our aeration services. We will ensure your lawn is free of pests and weeds, keeping it healthy and beautiful. Call us today at (321) 259-7844.