After aeration, your lawn is vulnerable, but there are a few tips on what to do after aerating the yard so you can benefit more.
Lawn aeration is an essential step in maintaining a healthy lawn. This process involves creating small holes in the soil to increase the flow of air, water, and nutrients to the grassroots. After aeration, your lawn is vulnerable because there are small holes all over it, but there are a few tips on what to do after aerating the yard so you can benefit more from aeration. Keep reading to learn more.
Water Thoroughly
After aerating your grass, it is crucial to water it properly. Aim to water your lawn within 24 to 48 hours after aeration. The newly created holes allow water to penetrate deeper, reaching the grassroots more effectively. Doing so helps the roots establish and benefit from improved soil conditions. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to water waste and shallow root growth. If possible, use sprinklers to distribute water across your yard evenly. Water in the early morning before 10 a.m. or late afternoon to reduce evaporation and allow grass blades to dry before sunset.
Overseeding
Lawn aeration leaves evenly spaced holes in the soil about 3 inches apart. This is the perfect time to seed your lawn, especially if you have thin grass with bare spots. These holes are deep enough to let new seeds establish roots and protect them from birds and other predators. You should water your new seeds frequently because they need moist soil.
Fertilize Your Lawn
Fertilizing your lawn after aeration nourishes the grass and promotes healthy growth. Aeration creates channels in the soil, making nutrients easier to reach the roots. Apply a high-quality fertilizer after aeration, preferably with a slow-release formula. The slow-release formula ensures that the grass receives a steady supply of nutrients over time. Fertilizers will also protect your new grass from scorching climates during the summer in case you aerated in early summer.
Watch for Weeds
Keep a watchful eye out for common lawn weeds and promptly address any unwanted plants. Aeration creates openings in the soil, making it easier for weed seeds to germinate. Use weed control methods like hand-pulling, spot-treatment with herbicides, or natural weed control options. Also, consider using pre-emergent herbicides in the spring and fall to prevent stubborn weeds from sprouting.
Limit Foot Traffic
Limiting foot traffic and keeping pets away from the treated areas immediately after aerating your grass is critical. The holes aeration leaves require time to heal, allowing the grass to grow strong, deep roots. Walking or playing on the grass too soon after aeration disrupts root growth, reducing the overall benefits of aeration.
Consider posting signage to draw attention to newly aerated areas to avoid unintentional foot traffic. Redirect your pets to different parts of the yard or keep them on a leash until the grass has recovered completely.
On The Green, Inc. Lawn Care is Here for You!
On The Green, Inc. was established back in 1994. We started as a small business that served the local area. In the decades since, we’ve expanded tremendously. Incorporated in 1997, our brand has become renowned throughout the state of Maryland. Email us at [email protected], call us at 410-695-0444, and find us at our street address: 777 Annapolis Road, Gambrills, Maryland 21054. Grow with us on Facebook and Google!