Why aerate the lawn?

How aeration works

Aeration is the process of mechanically removing cores of turf to improve the flow of air, water, and nutrients in dense, compacted soil. Soil compaction, caused by lawn traffic such as walking and mowing, is one of the greatest causes of turf deterioration. When soil is compacted, dirt particles are forced together, reducing the area where roots can grow. Aeration relieves soil compaction by improving the exchange of water and critical nutrients to grass roots.

Why should I aerate?

Aeration is the most important extra service you can give to your lawn. It is a minor intervention but of very high value! An aerated lawn means a healthy lawn. The lawn gets the chance to strengthen its roots, thus thickening the turf and giving it the beautiful intense green colour that we all love the most. A lawn aerator is not only a great asset for hire, but also for gardening contractors.
Jo Beau offers both motorised and towed models in its range. The Jo Beau H424 and H530 are two motorised models, very suitable for reaching hard-to-reach places thanks to their compact dimensions. The TA10 and TA12 are the towed models that can be used perfectly on larger surfaces such as golf courses and football fields.

When should I aerate?

For optimal effectiveness, aeration should be performed at least once annually. Spring (between March and May) and fall (between Augest and November) are the ideal times to aerate cool season grasses (grasses that die when the temperature rises and the humidity falls). When season grasses (warm season grasses grow best in warm months), such Zoysia Grass and Bermuda Grass, benefit the most from spring or summer aeration.

Step-by-step plan

1. Adequate amounts of vital turf nutrients including water, oxygen, nitrates, phosphorus, and potassium are unable to reach the roots.
2. Aerators relieve soil compaction by removing evenly-spaced cores of turf up to 3" in depth.
3. Once the soil is aerated air exchange is improved and the soil can easily absorb water, fertilizer and other nutrients.
4. Aeration promotes deeper root growth for a lawn that is lush, healthy and drought resistant.

Achieving the best results from aeration

• Water area to be aerated the night before. This will help soften the soil allowing for maximum core penetration.
• Before beginning, map out any obstructions such as sprinkler heads or drains.
• Cover every inch of the lawn and go over high traffic areas more than once.
• After aerating, water the lawn and apply fertilizer to promote growth and allow grass to compete with weeds as they grow.