Aerating

Aerating is the process of mechanically removing cores of soil and grass to relieve compacted soil by improving the exchange of water and critical nutrients between the atmosphere and the grass roots. Soil compaction is a frequent cause of lawn deterioration caused by lawn traffic such as walking, pets, and mowing. Compaction is greatest in the top 2-3” of soil.

Soil compaction can have an adverse effect on the health of the lawn. Compact soil prevents the grass from establishing a healthy root system. Adequate amounts of vital lawn nutrients including water, oxygen, nitrates, phosphorus, and potassium are unable to reach the roots. Aeration relieves soil compaction by removing evenly-spaced plugs of soil up to 3” in depth depending on the condition of the lawn.

In drier climates like Colorado and especially in areas with bad soil, as is found in much of south Denver, aeration increases drought resistance while decreasing the amount of water required to keep the lawn healthy, green and lush. For optimal effectiveness, we recommend aeration be done both spring and fall. Since the cost for aeration is often recovered in just a month or two from the amount of water saved, many customers are now opting for a mid-summer aeration as well.