Top 5 Signs Your Lawn Needs Aeration (And When to Do It)
Aeration is one of the most beneficial tasks you can perform to keep your lawn healthy, especially in Calgary’s fluctuating climate. Over time, the soil beneath your grass becomes compacted, preventing water, nutrients, and air from reaching the roots. Aeration helps alleviate this compaction, giving your lawn the breathing room it needs to thrive. I have noticed this significantly on my lawn with living in an older area of the city. Lawns themselves require constant upkeep to ensure healthy growth and a picturesque appearance.
Wondering if your lawn needs aeration? Here are the top five signs to look out for and the best time to tackle this essential lawn care task.
1. Water Puddles or Poor Drainage
After a rainfall or irrigation, do you notice water pooling on your lawn instead of soaking into the soil? This is a classic sign of compacted soil. When water can’t penetrate deeply, it stagnates on the surface, leading to root suffocation and fungal growth.
Solution: Aerating your lawn allows water to seep through the soil, reducing surface puddles and preventing waterlogging.
2. Thinning or Bare Patches
If certain areas of your lawn look thin, dry, or patchy, compacted soil could be the culprit. Without proper air circulation and nutrient absorption, grass struggles to grow and regenerate.
Solution: After aeration, consider overseeding these areas to promote new growth. The loosened soil will provide an optimal environment for seed germination.
3. Excessive Thatch Buildup
Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and organic matter that sits between the soil and grass blades. While a small amount of thatch can be beneficial, too much prevents nutrients from reaching the roots.
Solution: Core aeration helps break down thatch buildup by introducing oxygen to the soil, accelerating decomposition.
4. High Foot Traffic
Areas of your lawn that receive frequent use, like pathways, play areas, or dog runs, are more prone to soil compaction. Grass in these spots often looks dull, weak, or uneven.
Solution: Aerate high-traffic areas at least once a year to relieve compaction and encourage healthy regrowth.
5. Soil Feels Hard and Dense
Perform the screwdriver test: Insert a screwdriver or a soil probe into the ground. If it’s difficult to push through, your soil is likely compacted.
Solution: Aerating the lawn will loosen the soil, making it easier for roots to expand and absorb nutrients.
When Is the Best Time to Aerate Your Lawn?
In Calgary, the ideal times for aeration are during the spring and fall.
Spring (Late April to Early June): Aerating in the spring promotes strong root growth, especially after a harsh winter. Combine it with overseeding and fertilizing for maximum impact.
Fall (September to Early October): Aeration in the fall helps your lawn recover from summer stress and prepares it for winter dormancy. This is particularly beneficial if your soil has become compacted from heavy summer activity.
Avoid aerating during the peak summer heat or late fall when the ground may already be too cold.
How Often Should You Aerate?
Annually: For high-traffic lawns or clay-heavy soil, annual aeration is recommended.
Every 2-3 Years: Lawns with sandy soil or minimal foot traffic can go longer between aerations.
Final Thoughts
Regular aeration is a game-changer for Calgary lawns. It promotes healthier root systems, improves water and nutrient absorption, and enhances the overall resilience of your grass. If you’re unsure whether your lawn needs aeration or need assistance with the process, TD Greenworks offers professional aeration services tailored to your lawn’s unique needs.
Contact us today to schedule your aeration and give your lawn the care it deserves!
