What should I apply after aerating my lawn?
Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Post-aeration lawn service is crucial in recovering lawn vigor and in realizing the complete, long-term benefits of aeration. During this phase, the grass roots can establish themselves in the newly opened channels, extending and feeding. Prompt treatment applied after aeration takes advantage of the new pathways opened in the soil to achieve maximum absorption and growth. Good post-aeration care turns what might be a temporary disturbance into lasting turf power through planned applications.
Growth Stimulation
- Overseeding exploits aeration holes for superior seed-to-soil contact and germination.
- Balanced fertilizer delivers nutrients directly to roots through open channels.
- These combined actions accelerate turf thickening and density restoration.
Recovery Protection
- Light watering maintains consistent soil moisture without saturation or runoff.
- Traffic restriction prevents compaction recurrence during root regeneration.
- These measures safeguard vulnerable grass during the healing phase.
Overseeding makes the most of aeration holes as soon as they are made. Apply grass seed by broadcasting it on plugs, thus allowing the grains to fall onto open surfaces. This yields a germination rate of 90% compared to the surface seeding method. Select cool- or warm-season varieties that match the existing species of grass. Apply the seed at recommended rates so the plants are not overcrowded while working for the best cover in thin spots.
Applying fertilizer within 24 hours of planting provides necessary nutrients through open soil channels. Use a balanced formula, such as 16-16-16 NPK, to encourage healthy growth. Granular fertilizers work well with a slight watering, which will release the feed. This timing is harmonious with root grass regrowth, thus aiding recovery. Do not use routed fertilizer-and-weeder combinations, as they can be detrimental to young seedlings.
For 7 days following treatment, plush moist soil requires a delicate balance of water to prevent disasters. Water lightly for no more than 15-minute periods by hand or by sprinkler to allow moisture penetration, but avoid overwatering, which can cause washing away of seed or runoff. Early morning watering appears to be effective in reducing evaporation and fungal growth. Water frequency may be reduced with natural rainfall.
It is non-negotiable that the area should be traffic restricted for the first two weeks. Treated areas should be marked with barricades to prevent foot or equipment compression. The risk of recompaction is high until root systems have been able to stabilise the channels. If normal activities are resumed prematurely, aeration benefits will be lost. After fourteen days, the recovery of the area should be assessed, and the areas opened for normal use.
The benefits of these combined treatments include cumulative benefits after immediate recovery. If post-care is done correctly, it will induce deeper root systems within weeks. The structure of the soil improves gradually with the addition of organic matter. This produces a self-sustaining turf from which less care will be needed in the future. Annual applications will increase this benefit to the "nth" degree.
Read the full article: 10 Benefits of Lawn Aeration Explained
