Compacted soil and excess thatch limit water and air movement and can encourage pests. Aeration and dethatching relieve these problems. The University of Kentucky explains that compaction reduces macropore space and impedes root growthpublications.ca.uky.edu. Heavy traffic, clay soils and construction equipment contribute to compaction, while over‑fertilizing and shallow watering encourage thatch buildup. Restoring soil structure improves nutrient uptake and water infiltration. Here’s how to rejuvenate your lawn:
Dethatching
- Check thatch depth: A thin layer of thatch (¼–½ inch) cushions the turf, but accumulations over 1 inch interfere with water and air movement and create an environment for insects and disease publications.ca.uky.edu. To measure, cut a small wedge of turf and measure the brown spongy layer between the green vegetation and soil.
- Timing: Dethatch Kentucky bluegrass in fall or spring, but never in summer publications.ca.uky.edu. Tall fescue and perennial ryegrass rarely require dethatching publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Equipment: Use a vertical mower with fixed knives; flexible spring tines are ineffective publications.ca.uky.edu. Remove the dislodged material from the lawn.
Core Aeration
- Relieve compaction: Core aerators remove soil plugs from the top 2–3 inches, improving oxygen, water infiltration and thatch breakdown publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Depth and hole count: Use tines ¾–1 inch in diameter; penetrate 2–3 inches deep and make 20–30 holes per square foot publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Timing: Aerate cool‑season lawns in spring or fall when grass is actively growing; avoid aeration during summer droughts publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Benefits: Aeration increases water infiltration and soil aeration and reduces compaction and thatch publications.ca.uky.edu.
Additional Aeration Tips
- Choose the right equipment: Homeowners can rent core aerators with hollow tines. Spike aerators simply punch holes and can worsen compaction. Topdress with a thin layer of compost after aeration to fill holes and improve soil structure.
- Overlap passes: Make two passes at right angles for good coverage. Aim for 20–30 holes per square foot publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Timing matters: Aerate when the soil is moist but not waterlogged; dry soil may prevent tines from penetrating to the desired depth. Avoid aerating during drought stress or winter dormancy.
- Combine with overseeding: Aeration creates seedbed pockets for overseeding. Spread seed immediately after aeration and lightly drag or rake to incorporate seeds.
Combined aeration and dethatching rejuvenate stressed lawns. For professional aeration and dethatching services in Louisville, contact Rise Pest Pros.
