Lawn Aeration
Lawn aeration may seem like a trivial process which has no practical result, but this is a misguided belief. It is a process which is essential to promote effective nutrient uptake, and to promote strong lawn growth. If your lawn or grassy area takes a lot of strain, aeration could definitely benefit the roots, and leave you with a lawn to be proud of. In this article we will discuss the process of aeration, what it involves, and why it is beneficial and important for the health of your lawn.
What is Aeration?
Lawn aeration is a process whereby small blocks of soil are removed from under your lawn, and deposited on the surface. The process works to free up the roots of the grass, and also frees up soil which can become compact overtime. It is important to keep the airflow through your soil constant, and to ensure that it doesn't become too 'tight', which can in effect strangle roots and prevent natural, healthy growth.
Where your lawn takes a great deal of pressure, it is a thoroughly recommended process. For example, golf clubs regularly aerate their greens and fairways to ensure healthy grass growth, and to maintain a pruned appearance on their course. Aeration should definitely not be underestimated in its importance, and it is something which one can easily implement in a domestic setting.
The Process of Aeration
Lawn aeration can either be conducted by hand, or mechanically, although the latter is substantially more efficient. Machines come with cylindrical tools of varying diameter, which rotate and are driven through your lawn into the soil. Although the process leaves small, but noticeable, holes in the surface, it is highly beneficial to the grass roots, and you will see the benefit of this in the weeks following the process.
Hand held devices work in a similar way, although require a greater degree of force for soil penetration, and obviously cover a smaller surface area, and thus is a more time consuming process. Either way, you will see similar results; only the method of achieving those results differs.
Why is Aeration Important?
Lawn aeration is a key feature of proper lawn management. It is an essential factor in ensuring a healthy lawn, and is a practice advocated almost universally by experts. But why?
Firstly, soil shifts relatively easily, and as a result of this, can become compact over time. If soil loses its 'loose' quality, it makes it harder for the roots of the grass to draw nutrients and minerals, essential for growth, from within it.
By the process of aeration, you disturb the soil, and by removing a small portion, you are loosening the soil again to promote better growth through stronger roots. Additionally, aeration is a great way of ensuring airflow to your soil, thus making for a healthier supply of nutrients for your plant growth.
There is no doubt that lawn aeration is an important process. Luckily, it can easily be put to practice at home, on any lawn, as part of a total care solution. For larger lawn areas, definitely consider purchasing or hiring machinery.
The process can be quite labour-intensive otherwise, so it is definitely a worthwhile investment. After that, it's just a case of sitting back and enjoying you new, healthier lawn! Aeration is a process that really is helpful, and you should start to notice the results within no time.