Aerate for Better Results
When is the Best Time to Aerate Your Lawn?
September 19, 2024
Cool-Season Grasses For grasses like bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescues, the ideal time to aerate is during early spring or fall when they’re actively growing. Fall is especially beneficial as it allows your lawn to recover before going dormant for winter.
Warm-Season Grasses Grasses such as Bermuda, St. Augustine, Centipede, and Zoysia should be aerated in late spring or early summer, just as they’re coming out of dormancy. This ensures they’ll bounce back during their peak growing season.
Pro Tips for Aeration Success
- Aerate when the soil is moist from recent rain or irrigation. Dry soil is harder to work with, but overwatering can create a mess, so aim for balance.
- Avoid aerating dormant lawns to prevent stress on your grass.
- Regular aeration helps break down thatch—dead organic material that can block water, oxygen, and nutrients from reaching your grass's roots.
By aerating at the right time and under the right conditions, you’ll encourage a healthier, more resilient lawn year-round.