Aeration is a crucial part of maintaining a beautiful lawn, and if you’re unfamiliar with the process then you may have some questions. Before you head to an equipment rental store, make sure you understand the basics of lawn aeration. Using the guide below will help you get started and ensure that you have immaculate landscaping for years to come.

Understanding Lawn Aeration

What Is It?

During the process, the aerator will remove small plugs of soil from the ground, which allows the soil to breathe. You’ll generally pull a plug of soil every 2 to 6 inches and the plugs can range from 1 to 6 inches long. Doing this helps compacted soil expand into the openings and provide your lawn with important nutrients and minerals. If you are only treating a small portion of your land, a handheld device from a rental equipment store can be used. However, this requires more work and it’s often more feasible to rent a full-sized aerator.

Why Is It Important?

Compacted soil can create a number of problems that affect the health and appearance of your lawn. When you aerate, you help the soil better drain and deliver water to plant roots. This prevents standing water in your yard and reduces the risk of runoff and water waste. Also, oxygen and fertilizer can better penetrate the ground, allowing grass to grow thicker and greener. Additionally, it keeps moss and other problematic foliage that thrive in compacted soil from growing and smothering out healthy grass. You should consider aeration if your lawn has heavy foot traffic, freshly laid sod, or is prone to drying out easily.

When Should You Do It?

While frequency varies, it’s best to reserve an aerator at your local equipment rental store just before the growing season. Warm grasses like Bahiagrass and Bermudagrass begin growing in later spring and early summer, and cool grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass need to be aerated before the end of summer. If you have a clay-based lawn, you will need to aerate twice a year, usually at the end of the summer and at the beginning of spring.

If you’re in the Lexington, KY, and need equipment rental services, Wilson Brothers Rental & Sales carries a wide selection of products. They’re served the Tri-State area since 1978, and as a family-owned and -operated company, are committed to providing reliable service. Explore their selection of lawn and garden equipment, contractors’ equipment, and more on their website or call (859) 276-3601 to speak with an associate. You can connect on Facebook for news and updates.