Gardening Tips: Aerating lawn protects it, stimulates growth

If you have noticed problems with your lawn over the last couple of years, such as water having difficulty penetrating the soil surface, the grass not greening up after fertilizing, or more weeds than normal, your lawn may need aerating.

The best time to aerate your lawn is just before the beginning of the growth period. This will help the grass grow back and the roots will not be exposed for a long period of time.

The type of grass will determine whether you aerate in the fall, late spring or early summer.

Cool-season grasses (fescue) are best done in the fall, when there is less heat stress and the grass is actively growing. Just make sure you aerate early enough that you allow the lawn time to recover before a hard frost.

Warm-season grasses (Bermuda and zoysia) are best aerated in late spring or early summer, when they are actively growing.

With either type of grass, choose a day when the temperature is mild and the soil is moist, and easier to penetrate. Avoid aerating wet soil, which will lead to further compaction. If the soil sticks to your shoes or machine, it is too wet.

The simplest way to aerate a small lawn is with a spading fork. Push the fork into the soil as far as you can (at least 4 inches) and rock it back and forth to enlarge the holes. This will loosen the soil and make room for new growth. For a large area, you may want to rent an aerator from a lawn and garden supply center. Here are some of the benefits of aeration:

It loosens compacted soil and increases the movement of water and nutrients to the roots.

It stimulates root growth.

It reduces water runoff.

It helps protect your lawn from insects and diseases.

It reduces stress on your lawn.

Booker T. Leigh is an extension agent for Shelby County Extension office. For more gardening information, call his office at 901-752-1207 or the Tipton County office at 901-476-0231.