Sod Services LLC

Core Aeration/Seeding

Core Aeration

Core aeration has multiple benefits for your lawn. The process involves removing a small core of soil, which allows for air and other nutrients to get deep into the soil. Aeration also breaks the thatch layer (as seen in diagram), thus making the growth of new grass easier.

The soil underneath a lawn becomes compacted over time through weathering, mowing, and foot traffic. This compaction inhibits root growth along with the ability to obtain nutrients and water. Aeration will relieve the compacted soil allowing for a stronger and healthier root system.

In stress related months, such as the summer, lawns are more prone to disease, insect, and heat related damage. Core aeration, along with over seeding can rehabilitate these damaged areas. Along with aerating and seeding we use a starter rich fertilizer to “jump start” seed growth and provide optimal results.

Seeding

Seeding is done in conjunction with core aeration. This allows the seed to make direct contact with the soil, improving germination results. We use a blend of Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue, which matches the turf that we install. Seed is spread at the highest recommended rate of 6 pounds per 1000 square feet and heavier in thinner areas or troubled spots that need more attention. Our employees take special care when working close to flower beds or other landscaped areas in order to avoid seed going in to your beds.

Nature’s way takes time. Depending on the seed type, germination can be as short as 7- 10 days or as long as a month. Don’t get discouraged and stop watering. Ideal conditions are to keep the soil damp; Not flooded. Avoid mowing until seedlings are at least 3 -3.5 inches tall. Like everything we do we will leave behind a detailed, written instruction sheet on how to care for your newly seeded lawn.

FAQ’s about core aeration/seeding

Relieves compaction – Every time you walk over your lawn or ride a mower over your lawn it compacts. Every time the sun beats down it compacts. Every time the lawn gets wet then dries it compacts. Snow accumulation over a period of time can also lead to compaction. Compacted soil hinders root growth and leads to a thin lawn.

Allows air and nutrients down directly to the root system – by pulling cores of the soil out of the ground it allows oxygen, water, and nutrients to make direct contact with the root system of your grass.

Relieves thatch layer – Thatch is debris that accumulates on the lawn. By aerating the thatch layer is limited. Doing this every year, you’ll never have to that your lawn.

Seeding fills in thinned out areas that may have been affected by summer heat, disease, insects, mower damage etc. By overseeding with core aeration it allows the seed to make direct contact with the soil increasing germination percentage. Aerating/seeding every year with thicken the lawn with fewer weeds.

All pricing is based on sq ft of area to be done. Pricing is different per house. All costs include aeration/seeding. Additional costs are available to apply starter fertilizer.
Yes, a starter fertilizer can be put down to give the seedlings a boost of nutrients and help in germination
The best time to aerate/seed is September through mid October (weather permitting)
We leave behind a detailed sheet of instructions on how to care for your newly seeded lawn. This includes watering and cutting instructions. Any other questions please call our office. We’re happy to help you through it.