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Although core aeration is overall a better method of aerating a lawn, spike aeration can still be helpful, especially if you have a smaller yard or are only trying to work on a specific problem area. Because spike aeration is so accessible thanks to its lower cost and easy DIY tools like aerator shoes, it can still be worthwhile for some gardeners.

You can thicken new grass by using fertilizer, watering it 1 to 1½ inches per week, mowing when it is at an optimal height, and preventing weeds. You should fertilize your grass while you plant the grass seed, or soon afterward. Use an herbicide to prevent weeds or spot spray with herbicide to kill existing weeds.

Power seeding machines do a great job of creating narrow trenches in the soil to plant grass seeds into, but aerating before power seeding can be beneficial for your lawn. By aerating first, more water, oxygen, and carbon dioxide can reach the roots of your germinating grass seeds. Plan to aerate your lawn about once or twice a year, whether you plan to power seed or not.

Try the tool test first. A screwdriver or a similarly long, thin tool will work best, as spades and shovels are too big. If something still seems off despite the screwdriver smoothly going into the soil, look for other signs that you need aeration, like thinning grass, discolored areas, and puddles forming on your lawn after light rain. This indicates poor drainage because of too many areas being compacted.