Get matched with top lawn irrigation specialists in Oolitic, IN

The frequency of lawn aeration depends on factors such as soil type, grass variety, and lawn usage. In general, it is recommended to aerate cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or fescue once a year during the fall. On the other hand, warm-season grasses such as Bermuda or zoysia benefit from aeration in late spring or early summer. However, it's essential to assess your lawn's specific needs, as signs of compaction and reduced grass health may indicate the need for aeration outside these general guidelines.

You should put pre-emergent herbicide and fertilizer on your lawn in the spring. Pre-emergent herbicide keeps weeds from taking root. Fertilizer helps your grass to grow lush and dense and blocks future weeds from growing. You can also add amendments, such as sulfur and lime, to enhance your soil quality. 

The easiest way to rough up soil to accept grass seed and provide the best opportunity for its growth is to make several passes over the area with a garden tiller and rake away the loosened vegetation and debris. However, in some cases, very hard ground may require using a shovel or pick to break up pieces into smaller chunks that the tiller can handle more easily.

Plug aeration is more effective than spike aeration, although it mars the appearance of your lawn until the plugs decompose. This can take a few weeks and some homeowners find it distressing, especially if they are planning an event and can't have guests stepping on the soil cores. Liquid aeration is just as effective without having to bore holes.