Get matched with top lawn care providers in Tunbridge, VT

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.

Aerating a lawn before seeding it or adding new grass seed is a smart decision. By loosening up compact soil and allowing it to take in more air and water, your seeds will have an easier time establishing roots and growing. Aerating beforehand also means your seeds will have better contact with the soil, so more of your seeds have a chance to germinate. If you do plan to aerate your lawn before seeding, aerate about two days before you plan to start seeding.

While you may see some germination by simply tossing a handful of new seeds on a lawn, you'll have more success by following the proper reseeding or overseeding process step-by-step. Without properly tilling, mowing, amending the soil, and watering your lawn, the new seed could blow away or simply fail to take root.

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.