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Because it’s native to the central United States and Canada and is drought-tolerant, it typically is not difficult to grow. It requires very little maintenance and minimal watering beyond rainfall. Its hardy nature and unique look make it a favorite choice among people living in the western United States and other dry regions of the country. 

Overseeding after aeration is not always necessary, but it can be highly beneficial, especially for lawns with thin or patchy areas. Aeration creates an optimal environment for new grass seed germination by improving soil contact and reducing competition from thatch. If you aim to thicken your lawn, address bare spots, or introduce a new grass variety, overseeding immediately after aeration can help rejuvenate and enhance your lawn's overall health and appearance. However, whether you overseed or not depends on your specific lawn goals and condition.

There are a few time periods or conditions during which you should avoid aerating your lawn. For example, do not aerate when the ground is frozen or waterlogged, as it can damage the soil structure and grass roots. Aerating during the peak of summer heat or drought is also not recommended since it can stress your grass further. It's best to wait for cooler, more favorable conditions. Finally, newly seeded lawns should not be aerated until the grass is well-established, usually at least one year after seeding.

The screwdriver test involves trying to push a screwdriver into your lawn. If it goes in easily, you’re likely overwatering and should cut back. If there’s moderate resistance, you have a good watering schedule and soil composition. If there’s a lot of resistance or you can’t get the screwdriver into the soil, you may need to aerate your lawn to reduce compaction and increase your watering schedule.