The Benefit from Aeration and Overseeding

Fall is approaching in the North Star State, and that means we need to start thinking about fall cleanup and getting our yards prepared for winter. Today, we will talk about one of the most beneficial steps you can take to improve the look and health of your yard; aeration and overseeding.

After a long summer of playing and hosting other activities, your grass might start to lose its former luster. This is because, over time, our soil becomes compacted from frequent use. When soil is compact, it stops the flow of water and air into the roots of your grass. This will cause your grass to wilt and eventually die if not remedied.

Other Signs of Soil Compaction

Brown or wilting grass is just one of the symptoms of compacted soil. Here are some other red flags that should alert you to soil compaction.

Hard Soil

Try pushing a shovel or screwdriver into the ground. If it isn’t easy, you have a problem and should consider aerating your lawn.

Standing Water

Compacted soils prevent water from being absorbed into the ground. Instead, it will collect in low spots and create large puddles that can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Spongy Grass

Thatch is another contributor to soil compaction. Thatch is made up of layers of leaves, grass clippings, and other organic matter. When it becomes thick enough, it can block water from reaching the soil.

The Benefits of Aeration

Aeration is the process of using a machine that pulls hundreds of small plugs of soil from your yard. This alleviates compact soil and breaks up thatch. The aeration process allows for the flow of air, water, and nutrients back into the roots of your grass. It also promotes deeper root growth, which will give your grass a headstart in spring.

Aeration Has The Following Additional Benefits:

• Thicker, healthier grass
• Grass grows much easier
• Fills in bald and thin patches in your yard
• Reduces water runoff
• A healthier, stronger yard

The Benefits of Overseeding Your Lawn

Overseeding is a process done after your yard has been aerated. Overseeding is simply the addition of new types of grass seed to your existing lawn. Benefits of overseeding include.

• Filling in bare spots
• Thicker grass
• Weed prevention
• Resistance to pests, drought, and lawn diseases 
• Improved appearance and color

What Kinds of Grass Seeds to Plant in Minnesota 

Here in Minnesota, only cool-season grasses thrive. Cool-season grasses perform well in areas with cold winters and mild summers. These grasses do their growing in the spring and fall when temperatures are cooler. The most common types of cool-season grasses in Minnesota are Kentucky bluegrass, fine fescue, and perennial ryegrass. 

Showcase Lawn Care Can Help You Today! 

At Showcase Lawn Care, our aeration and overseeding program will rejuvenate your lawn and make it look better than ever. Call us at (763) 415-7383, or leave a message on our site.