We love the outdoors here in Camas, Washougal, and Vancouver, Washington, and our yards and lush lawns reflect this. Most of us would probably assume that we need to strictly water and mow to maintain a healthy lawn. However, people often overlook the crucial lawn maintenance task of aerating. This rather simple task can result in a large variety of benefits that will transform your lawn. Aerating pokes small holes into the soil and allows for air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots. Let’s dive into some of the commonly overlooked benefits of aerating.
Nutrient Absorption
The small holes that aeration creates promotes more efficient absorption of nutrients into the grass roots. These impact points also allow for fertilizing and nutrients to penetrate the soil more effectively. This ensures that your grass gets the nourishment it craves for the best chance of optimal growth and health.
Improved Soil Structure
Over time, soil can slowly become more and more compacted, hindering the movement of air, water, and nutrients. Aeration will help create a healthier soil structure and reduce soil compaction. Having a good soil structure will help with drainage and will decrease the risk of runoff that creates puddles and waterlogged areas in your lawn.
Stimulated Root Growth
Compacted soil prevents root growth, leading to small and puny root systems. Aeration allows roots to develop not only deeper but stronger root systems. The deeper the roots go into the soil, the more resilient they can be to things such as drought and environmental stress, resulting in a lusher lawn.
Enhanced Oxygen Circulation
Just like humans need oxygen to survive, so do microorganisms and beneficial bacteria in the soil. Aeration makes the trade of gasses between the soil and the atmosphere easier, which ensures the correct amount of oxygen supports the soil’s living organisms. Aerating will create a healthier and well-balanced ecosystem underneath the surface.
Reduction Of Thatch Build-Up
Thatch, a layer of dead unwanted grass, can accumulate on the soil surface, which creates difficulties for air, water, and nutrient penetration. Aeration will help break down the thatch and increase its decay by promoting microbial activity. Once you reduce thatch build-up, your lawn will be much better equipped to absorb all essential nutrients in order to thrive.
Lawn aeration benefits are undeniable. From allowing your roots more access to water, air and nutrients, to helping the soil around the roots help promote growth, aeration has a wide spread of benefits. Consider incorporating this overlooked practice into your lawn care routine and witness the hidden aspects that lie beneath your lawn, allowing it to soar to new heights, creating the beautiful lawn you’ve always desired. Urban Eden has all the tools and skills to properly aerate your lawn, so contact us today or fill out our FREE estimate request form.