Can i aerate in march

We will be overseeding between March 1 and March Kentucky bluegrass is the slowest species of grass to germinate, taking up to weeks. Other species in our seed mix, tall fescue, and rye take weeks and about 1 week to germinate respectively. Doing the math, almost all seed will have germinated by April 21, just in time for our dithiopyr application.

In the literature on dithiopyr, crabgrass is the only plant mentioned to be susceptible to the herbicide after germination there are other intolerant ornamental and grass species mentioned, but none of them are used in our overseed mix. This leads us to believe that once grass seed has germinated, there is little to no risk applying dithiopyr.

Spring aerating is beneficial for central Maryland lawns. Yes, there are some problems and risks associated with this practice. However, with proper timing and a complete turfgrass management plan, all of these issues are addressed.

Therefore, the benefits of spring aeration outweigh any potential negatives. So, for the healthiest lawn, aerate in the spring and fall. If you want to do it yourself this spring, make sure that you have a comprehensive program to overcome each hurdle. If you would like the help of a professional, fill out the form below. Should You Aerate This Spring? Some of it may be intentional. But, I assume most of it comes from a misinformed source. Today, I want to clear up some common misconceptions about aerating in the spring.

Turfgrass Science Argument 1: Spring aerating increases your lawns susceptibility to moisture-related problems The logic behind this argument is that spring is generally a wet season. Argument 2: Aerating stresses the lawn. Stressing the lawn before summer makes the lawn more susceptible to drought and heat This is another argument that we can get behind IF aeration is timed poorly.

Argument 3: Overseeding is not as effective in the spring We agree. Argument 4: Aerating helps grass grow, but it also helps weeds grow, too This argument revisits the importance of timing. Our conclusion Spring aerating is beneficial for central Maryland lawns. Hire our service or read about similar topics here! Lawn Care. Here are a few things you can do this month: Remove any winter damage.

Any branches, leaves, dirt, etc. They need to be removed. Prepare your mower and lawn tools. Your tools have likely been sitting in your garage or shed for a few months.

Aeration should not be done during periods of extreme heat or drought, as creating holes in the soil at these times can expose it to more heat, which can further dry out your grass. Plan to aerate when the soil is moist but not saturated i. Whether you use a spike aerator equipped with solid wedge-shaped spikes that punch holes in the soil view example on Amazon or a core aerator equipped with hollow tines that remove soil view example on Amazon , the aerator will penetrate more easily—and can create deeper holes—when the soil is moist.

Aerate in the morning if possible, as the low temperature and high humidity will prevent moisture in the grass from evaporating. The frequency of aeration depends on the type of soil you have and the level of traffic your lawn gets:. Disclosure: BobVila. Thatch is a layer of dead organic material that sits on top of the soil.

A thin layer of thatch is beneficial as it breaks down and provides needed nutrients to the soil. Thatch that is an inch thick or more will prevent water, light, and nutrients from reaching the soil.

There are a few ways to address a thatch problem, but aeration causes the least damage. Has it been more than two or three years since your lawn was aerated? Ask the lawn care experts at Nutri-Lawn Ottawa about aeration and how to give your lawn the best start for Get a free consultation on how to improve the look and feel of your lawn.