Aeration and overseeding can turn your lawn into a healthy, lush, and resilient landscape. However, the effectiveness of these critical procedures can be easily sabotaged by common mistakes. By steering clear of them, you can achieve a vibrant yard that thrives year-round. Here’s what to avoid:

Aerating During the Wrong Season

Timing is everything in lawn care. So, aerating and overseeding at the wrong time can expose your grass to stress, resulting in poor growth or damage. The ideal time for these processes typically falls in early spring or fall, depending on your climate and the grass type. Columbia, MO has mostly fescue species, so fall is ideal.

Choosing the Wrong Aeration Equipment

Not all aeration equipment is created equal. Professional grade aerations will provide evenly-distributed deep cores to provide maximum results throughout the yard.

Misusing Lawn Aeration Equipment

Using aeration equipment incorrectly is a common error for most homeowners. This can lead to losing control of the machine, damaging underground sprinkler heads, and creating uneven holes, affecting overall results. Because of this, it is best to hire a professional.

Mowing Too Soon

Another big mistake is mowing your lawn too soon after aeration. Doing so can disrupt the new seedlings and prevent them from establishing a strong root system. Ideally, it’s best to wait until the grass is around 3 to 4 inches tall before you mow, which may take 2 to 8 weeks, depending on what you planted.

Using the Wrong Seed Varieties

Choosing the right seed varieties is essential for effective overseeding. Some may mistakenly use types unsuited to their climate or soil conditions, leading to poor germination rates and an unbalanced lawn. Always select seeds that complement your existing grass and are well-adapted to local conditions for optimal results.

Neglecting Soil Moisture

Soil moisture is crucial in the success of aeration and overseeding. When it’s too dry during aeration, it can lead to insufficient penetration, while overly wet soil can cause compaction issues and hinder effectiveness. Water the lawn before aerating and ensure it receives consistent moisture after overseeding to support successful germination.

Avoiding aeration and overseeding mistakes can help ensure you yield the desired results. With careful planning and execution, you'll be on your way to a healthier, more beautiful yard. Contact us at Wingate Pest & Lawn for a free estimate for professional lawn care.