Lawn owners often don’t realise the hazards of soil compaction and the harm it can bring to lawns.

The problem starts when particles of soil in the top 4 inches are compressed, reducing pore space between them and impeding the movement of air, water and nutrients through the soil profile. This in turn leads to poor grass growth, weed invasion and moss colonisation.

Generally all lawns are compacted, as you can imagine, they’re walked on, rolled, and played on. All this contributes to consolidation then the solution is simple: Aerate. This is the practice of physically punching holes in the surface 4-6 inches deep.

Aerating a lawn benefits the soil in the following ways:

• Loosens compacted soil and increases the availability of water and nutrients.
• Enhances oxygen levels in the soil, stimulating root growth and enhancing beneficial bacteria in the soil to multiply and feed the grass.
• Allows water to drain away form surface reducing the incidence of moss.
• The physical action of aerating severs roots and stimulates new roots to fill up the holes
• Increases drought tolerance and improves overall health.

Aeration is one of the most important jobs to be carried out on your lawn and can be carried out from autumn until the spring. It is advisable at least once per year.

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