Core Aeration
Core aeration is an essential part of turf management. Over time, the soil becomes compacted. Compaction reduces the amount of oxygen contained in the soil. Turf grass roots need oxygen to grow. If the soil is loose, oxygen from the atmosphere will move through the pore spaces in the soil to the roots of the turf plant, thus encouraging stronger root growth. If compaction is not corrected yearly through core aeration, the turf will gradually thin out and be replaced with weeds that thrive in oxygen-deprived soils.
Core aeration primarily relieves compaction and also helps to break down thatch. See dangers of thatch buildup here.
Furthermore, water and fertilizer intake are maximized after aeration. Once the soil has been loosened, the pore spaces are expanded, allowing more water and nutrients to be carried to the turf roots. Also, water and fertilizer are conserved instead of being wasted through runoff.
Finally, core aeration provides optimal soil preparation for overseeding. Overseeding is helpful because it introduces new grass plants to build a hearty turf. These new plants fill in bare spots and help the lawn recover from the stress caused by the previous summer.
Core aeration primarily relieves compaction and also helps to break down thatch. See dangers of thatch buildup here.
Furthermore, water and fertilizer intake are maximized after aeration. Once the soil has been loosened, the pore spaces are expanded, allowing more water and nutrients to be carried to the turf roots. Also, water and fertilizer are conserved instead of being wasted through runoff.
Finally, core aeration provides optimal soil preparation for overseeding. Overseeding is helpful because it introduces new grass plants to build a hearty turf. These new plants fill in bare spots and help the lawn recover from the stress caused by the previous summer.