The Best Time for Core Aeration in Raleigh
When it comes to spring lawn care in Raleigh, aeration is one of the best things you can do for your lawn. But when to aerate is the big question for many North Carolina homeowners. We’ve got you covered. We’ve highlighted everything you need to know about the benefits of core aeration and when to aerate your lawn in North Carolina.
What is Core Aeration?
First things first, let’s understand core aeration. It’s like giving your lawn a breath of fresh air! Core aeration involves perforating the lawn’s soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deep into the grass roots. This process pulls plugs of soil from that lawn and helps alleviate compacted soil and break down thatch to ensure your North Carolina lawn stays healthy and vibrant. It’s better than other types of lawn aeration due to the various benefits it provides.
When to Aerate Your Lawn in North Carolina
The best time to aerate your lawn depends on the type of grass you have. Remember, it’s good to aerate when your grass is actively growing because the lawn care can repair itself. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda, St. Augustine, or Zoysia do best with aeration in late spring to early summer. As soon as your warm-season lawn transitions out of dormancy, you’re safe to aerate! For cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or fescue, it’s better to aerate in early fall, followed up with overseeding. If you want to aerate your lawn yourself, you can rent a core aerator machine. Before you start, make sure to mow your lawn and water it. Wet soil makes it easier for the aerator to pull better plugs of soil, giving you the best results.
Benefits of Aeration for Warm-Season Grass
Lawns become worn down as we use them. Foot traffic, play, mowing, weather, and general use can take a toll on your grass and the lawn’s soil. Lawns may become weak or compacted, causing bare spots or thinning. Aeration is a great way to help improve that because of the benefits it provides for the lawn’s root systems. Healthy, strong roots are the key to a healthy North Carolina lawn.
Reduced Soil Compaction and Thatch
- Better air circulation in the soil and reduces soil compaction
- Breaks down the thatch layer and reduces thatch buildup
- Plugs of soil leftover from core aeration naturally break down and contain microorganisms that benefit the soil
Deeper Root Growth
- Stimulates root growth and encourages grass roots to spread horizontally and vertically, resulting in stronger, deeper root systems
Better Nutrient Uptake
- Improves drainage and soil absorption, which makes watering more efficient, reducing runoff and puddling
- Improved soil absorption enhances the effectiveness of lawn fertilizers, and other nutrients absorbed into the lawn, meaning you’ll get the most out of our lawn care services
Better Weed Control
- Improved turf density creates a stronger, thicker barrier to block weeds from breaking through and choking out your grass; the turf barrier acts as a natural form of weed control
Lawn Care and Core Aeration Services in the Triangle Area
Homeowners in the Triangle looking for a local lawn care company should look no further than Eastern Turf Maintenance! We are a trusted lawn care service in Raleigh, with years of experience treating North Carolina lawns. Our team will take care of scheduling your core aeration at the best time for your lawn to set you up for a successful growing season. In addition to aeration, we offer lawn care programs including weed control and fertilization, lawn disease control, mosquito control, and tree and shrub care in Raleigh. Contact us today for a free quote for aeration or spring lawn care!