Aeration

Aeration of turfgrass root zones is critical on intensively managed and used turfgrass areas. Water management, nutrient availability, thatch accumulation and root development are all affected by aeration. Playability and safety for the sports athlete are fast becoming a issue and possible liability. Spiking, core aeration and slicing are all used by the Professional Turf Manager and each has it's advantages.

Spiking helps improve water penetration and doesn't leave unsightly plugs on the surface. It doesn't last as long as core aeration though, so it will have to be done more often.

Core aeration is probably the best of the three but you will have plugs left on the surface. These can be picked up or they will breakdown after one or two waterings.

 

Slicing is very beneficial on the surface (for thatch) but has little value for the root zone of the turf. It is by far the simplest and fastest of the three.

Frequency of these operations depends on the thatchiness of the turf, the root zone of the plant and the compaction of the soil.  Core aeration and top dressing provide the most effective method of root zone modification and improvement. By removing the cores and top dressing with a mix of sand, Humic Acid, Zeolite, Magnesium and Calcite Calcium can improve your turf within a day or two (depending on soil type and temperatures).

The heavier the traffic, the more you should aerate. Home lawns can get by once a year, but should be done at least twice a year. Sports Fields (baseball, soccer, football) need monthly aeration, but for best results should be done weekly. Golf Courses need it at least monthly, depending on soil type and play.

Keep Thatch Under Control

Thatch is a layer that consists of dead and living stems, blades and roots that build up on any well-maintained turf. A small amount of thatch is a good thing, but when it gets over a half inch it becomes a problem. Thatch can become the home of both insects and disease. By aerating on a regular basis thatch is managed and shouldn’t become much of a problem. The growth pockets that are created when you aeration put food and water in easy reach of the plant roots. The root system actually grows toward these pockets and becomes deeper and stronger. Better roots mean a thicker and healthier lawn.

Softer Soil

Heavy clay soils can become very compacted over time. Clay soil particles are flat and tightly packed with little space between for water, air and root movement. Aeration allows the soil to expand which helps roots to penetrate deeper and further. Over a period of time aeration can help soil to become softer and more open.