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While your lawn will reap the benefits of core aeration faster than liquid aeration, the liquid solution will last longer and have more cumulative effects. If your lawn is in really bad shape, try both. By creating holes in the soil with the core aerator, you’ll make it easier for your lawn to absorb the liquid aerator solution. You might have to apply the liquid aerator several times during the growing season, but again, the positive results will be more cumulative than with core aeration on its own.

Several signs indicate that your lawn may require aeration. If you notice water pooling or runoff after rainfall, it suggests poor water infiltration, and aeration could help. Compacted soil may cause grass to thin out, turn yellow, or struggle to grow. Additionally, the presence of a thatch layer, which is a buildup of dead grass and debris, can indicate aeration is needed to alleviate thatch and promote healthier grass growth. Monitoring these signs can help you determine when your lawn would benefit from aeration.

Experts recommend aerating a lawn at least once a year. If you haven’t aerated your lawn recently, or if it has a significant amount of thatch buildup, you may need to aerate it twice annually for a few years. Keeping up with a regular aeration schedule helps ensure the long-term health of your yard.

Aeration is most effective when the soil is slightly moist but not excessively dry or waterlogged. If your lawn's soil is extremely dry, consider watering it a day or two before aeration to facilitate the process. Conversely, avoid aerating when the soil is saturated or excessively wet, as it can lead to poor aeration results and potential damage to your lawn. Finding the right moisture balance is crucial for successful lawn aeration.