The term “aeration” refers to any process that provides or increases the amount of air. Aerating turf increases the amount of oxygen in the soil by creating vertical holes from the surface through the root layer. Providing oxygen to the roots of the grass is vitally important for healthy growth.
There are two main types of aeration: tine or spike aeration, and core aeration. In combination with other services, both provide numerous benefits in addition to oxygenating roots.
Tine Aeration
Tine aeration creates holes and breaks up compacted soil and roots by pushing metal spikes into the earth. Each spike enters the ground at a slight angle and moves to an equal opposite angle before leaving the ground. This process results in a relatively small defined hole at the surface while creating a larger space beneath.
Various lengths and widths of tines are used to produce the specific results needed. Tine aeration is often used to increase drainage and also produces a softer feel underfoot.
Core Aeration
Core aeration involves removing hundreds of tiny round sections of turf about the size of a nickel up to five inches in length, usually about two to three inches apart. By providing additional space and less soil, the entire area settles with less density or compaction.
By creating more space between soil particles, oxygen, water, and nutrients are able to penetrate deeper into the soil. This promotes drainage, helps prevent water and fertilizer from running off without absorption, assists the growth of beneficial microorganisms, improves the rooting of new seed, and reduces thatch.
Core aeration is particularly beneficial for older growth areas, and soil with a heavy clay composition.
Aeration with Other Turf Services
Turf aeration is often used in combination with top dressing or overseeding or both, as these processes support each other for even better results.
