Aerate and Overseed for a Pristine Lawn Renovation
Core aeration follows right behind fertilization
The grass is always greener on the other side. Well that doesn’t have to be so true anymore. Now is a great time to start a lawn renovation and have the best looking lawn on your block. Fall is the best season to implement a lawn renovation and will result in lush, healthy, green grass for years to come. Over time lawns can use up their stored nutrients and lose their rigorous growing habit. That is why it is important to resupply your lawn with fertilizer, aerate and overseed every other year or as your lawn needs it.
A slit seeder makes grooves in the grass and controls seed drop ratioThe process begins with fertilization, and should be done at least once a year. Immediately after, core aeration is necessary to divide and split the existing lawn root structure. Core aeration removes plugs of dirt from clay soils, leaving a hole to be filled with seed, water and air. This void is necessary for air and water to percolate the dense soil. A pocket of nutrients is created for the lawn to revive its root structure because there is more space to form new root growth. When the plugs are pulled out of the ground, it decreases compaction in the lawn, especially in areas with clay based soils.
Once aerated, the next step is to seed your lawn. Overseeding can rejuvenate dying lawns, and invigorate new lawns. Look for areas in the lawn that are thinner, and browning, and focus on these spots to apply new grass seed. If your lawn is still fairly new, overseeding can be useful to create a consistent new layer of grass, giving it the boost it needs for spring. Overseeding, when paired with core aeration is the best way to get a greener and healthier lawn because the grass seed gets into the pockets and holds moisture throughout the winter.
Some essential things to remember when doing core aeration and slit seeding are:
- Mark out all sprinkler heads and invisible dog fences, they could be damaged by aeration machinery
- Do not mow newly seeded areas until it has grown to 2- 2½ inches tall
- Avoid all foot traffic, and keep pets off of germinating areas
- Consistently water seeded lawn everyday for at least 2 weeks; seed that dries out will not germinate.
- Fall is the best time to aerate and seed.
If you are not a DIY person, don’t hesitate to contact Goldberg and Rodler today. We have developed a team of professionals to help with your lawn management and renovation. Goldberg and Rodler can renovate and install lawns on residential and commercial properties. We are happy to help you achieve your dream lawn today.
Written by Nick Onesto
The final result is a thriving and lush lawn