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Gary Y. Gao,
Ohio State University Extension,
Clermont County;
Barbara Bloetscher, C. Wayne Ellett Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic; Joseph F. Boggs, Ohio State University Extension, Hamilton County/Southwest District; Pamela J. Bennett, Ohio State University Extension, Clark County; Jane C. Martin, Ohio State University Extension, Franklin County; Joseph W. Rimelspach, Ohio State University Extension, Plant Pathology; John R. Street, Ohio State University Extension, Horticulture and Crop Science; Erik A. Draper, Ohio State University Extension, Geauga County |
Core aerification, also referred to as aeration, is a process in which plugs of soil and thatch are removed from the lawn by hollow tines and deposited on top of the lawn. This procedure provides many benefits to turfgrass, especially if the grass is growing on compacted soil and/or has an excessive accumulation of thatch. The openings in the soil provide improved water infiltration and fertilizer penetration, plus turf health is improved by increased rooting and increased air in the soil. Core openings also allow oxygen to penetrate the thatch layer enhancing aerobic decomposition of this organic matter. Leaving the soil plugs on the surface speeds up the decomposition process by allowing microbes in the core to digest the thatch at the soil surface as well as below ground. Aerification also helps insecticides penetrate the thatch to reach root-feeding pests.
The process of core aerification pulls plugs, which ideally are 2" to 3" in length with a diameter of 0.50" to 0.75". At least eight to 10 plugs should be pulled per square foot. With some machines, this may mean making more than one pass over the lawn to achieve the desired number of holes.
Aerification can be done in the spring and fall. Spring is often a preferred time for core aerification since the ground is moist and better penetration is accomplished to remove deeper cores. However, preemergent herbicide should be applied afterward to reduce the potential for weed germination. Several core aerifications a year would be recommended if serious soil compaction problems exist, or a thatch layer is 0.75" or greater.
Proper Mowing Practices
Before starting to mow in the spring, make sure that the lawn mower height is properly adjusted and the blade swings freely on a level plane. Always use a sharp blade to reduce tearing and bruising of the leaf blades. Perennial ryegrass is especially susceptible to tearing during the spring mowing season. The ragged, brown leaf tips are not only unsightly but also allow moisture to escape and provide pathogens access into the leaves. Mow frequently enough to remove only 1/3 of the leaf blade at a time to avoid scalping the grass. Recommended mowing heights in spring and fall for Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescues are 2" to 2.5", and 2.5" to 3" for tall fescue. During summer stress periods, mowing heights for Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, fine fescues, and tall fescue are 2.5" to 3.0".