LAWN AERATION

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(FOLLOW LINK FOR DEMONSTRATION)

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The process of mechanically punching holes or applying slits into the soil surface. This reduces particle compaction and improves the circulation of water, nutrition and air through the soil structure. It also creates a better environment for developing bacterial activity and generally improving the health of your lawn. Treatments are usually carried out in the Spring and Autumn when soil temperatures and water availability are likely to be suitable to aid recovery. This process is carried out as a matter of routine on high performance sports surfaces but is highly recommended for dramatically improving the quality of a domestic lawn. Aeration can be any of the following processes

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• Solid Tining - the process of driving solid spikes (like a lawn fork) to a depth of approximately 3" to perforate the soil. This allows air, water and nutrients to reach the rootzone. Generally carried out annually on heavy soils where drainage is an issue or in preparation for top dressing or overseeding.

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• Hollow Tining - Similar to spiking other than the tines are hollow and as they penetrate the soil they remove a core or plug. This process also allows air, water and valuable nutrients to reach the rootzone but has the added benefit of easing soil compaction as well as removing organic matter such as thatch. Often this process is followed by topdressing (the application of either sand or soil) to provide soil exchange and improve the soil structure. This form of tining can be carried out on an annual basis but it is recommended to do so at least every 3 years for a high quality lawn.

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• Slitting - The process of applying slits into the soil surface. As well as promoting the circulation of air, water and nutrients this process has the added benefit of root pruning to develop the rootzone further

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