How to Aerate a Small Lawn

Aerating a small lawn is a straightforward process that can improve the health and appearance of your grass. Here are the steps to aerate a small lawn:

1. Choose the right time: The best time to aerate a lawn is during the growing season when the grass is actively growing. In most regions, this is in the spring or fall when temperatures are cooler.

2. Mow the lawn: Mow your lawn to its normal height before aerating. This will make it easier for the aerator to penetrate the soil.

3. Water the lawn: If your soil is dry, water the lawn a day or two before aerating. Moist soil is easier to aerate.

4. Rent or buy an aerator: You can rent an aerator from a local home improvement store or garden center. Alternatively, you can purchase a manual or electric aerator if you plan to aerate your lawn regularly.

5. Mark sprinkler heads and other obstacles: Mark the location of sprinkler heads, buried utility lines, and other obstacles to avoid damaging them during aeration.

6. Begin aerating: Start at one corner of the lawn and work your way across in a pattern that covers the entire area. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating the aerator. Be sure to overlap each pass to ensure complete coverage.

7. Remove the soil plugs: After aerating, allow the soil plugs to dry out for a few days. Then, mow over them to break them up and distribute them evenly across the lawn.

Aerating your small lawn once or twice a year can improve soil compaction, increase air and water circulation, and promote healthy grass growth.