Lawn aeration processes can be simple or advanced, depending on what you need the service
for and the technique that you use.
The simplest aeration can be performed by using basic tools, while the most advanced
procedures need special equipment and a multifaceted approach.
It all depends upon the level of damage or obstruction that a lawn is facing. For instance,
if you are only aerating your lawn as a part of your regular maintenance routine, then you
may not need anything other than the basic aeration equipment. However, if you are dealing
with massive damage such as dead grass or thatch, then those obstructions need to be removed
before the aeration process can be executed.
Depending on the condition of your lawn, your Lawn Pro most commonly recommends either of
the following techniques.
The basic approach: spiking or solid tine aeration
As the simplest way to aerate a lawn, the process requires you to basically just punch holes
in the ground.
Typically, the spiking method is performed by using basic tools such as a rake. But special
gear can also be used. This may include lawn aerator shoes that have large and heavy spikes
on their soles. Professionals sometimes also use spike aerators that can be driven across
the lawn like paint rollers, but with spikes on their ends.
This approach is most effective with cases that aren’t dealing with a high level of
obstruction. If your lawn has already started showing severe signs of needing aeration, then
this application may not be ideal for you. Aerating your lawn with advanced methods would be
the more effective approach.
The advanced approach: hollow tining or core aeration
Hollow tining, also known as core aeration, is a more advanced process that may require you
to buy or rent special equipment, such as a manual or automatic hollow tine aerator.
The equipment gets this name from its design, which has long, yet hollow tines coming out of
its surface. Unlike spikes, which push the ground down, hollow tines remove cores of the
ground with each extraction. This is also where the process gets its alternative name of
core aeration.
Hollow tining or core aeration removes cores from your ground that can help you get rid of
thatch as well as clamped or compacted soil. It is a more time consuming processing than
simply punching holes in your lawn or walking around with your aerator shoes on.
Hollow tining or core aeration is very effective at removing thatch and compacted soil from
the ground. However, since it requires special equipment and experience to be executed
optimally, it is recommended that you either have this process performed by a professional
or effectively learn how to operate it before using this equipment.