In Georgia, there’s quite a bit of confusion over whether fall aeration and seeding are the right choice. Should you have it done before winter? Should you wait until spring or early summer? Chances are, if your neighbors are debating, they have different types of lawns. Be sure to make the best choice for your yard.
Consider these differences between cool- and warm-season grass growth cycles before scheduling your fall aeration and seeding.
Cool season grasses are heartiest in fall and primed for new root growth.
If you have a lawn of fescue, ryegrass or bluegrass, you have a cool-season lawn, and the way it grows will differ from those of Bermuda or Zoysia varieties. Cool-season grasses are healthiest during the fall and best capable of handling the disruption that comes with core aeration. During this process, homeowners or lawn care experts remove plugs of soil from the ground, allowing for better airflow. This is essential in stimulating new root system growth and maximizing the impact of fertilizer applications. It’s especially helpful in preparing your grass before the harsh winter months set in.
The opposite is true in spring when your grass is just beginning to re-establish itself, however. At that time of year, aeration can damage your root system and make your grass vulnerable to pests and disease. Fall is also the best time for seeding cold-season varieties, as the seeds can be deposited straight into the ground. They’ll have the benefit of richer soil, and they’ll be primed for root stimulation as well. Laying cool-season seed down in spring rarely makes an impact because cool grass grows up, not out, when warm temperatures first return. For these reasons, fall aeration and seeding is best for cool season grasses. If you have a warm-season type of grass, however, the opposite is true.
Warm-season grasses are heartiest in spring.
The most common warm-season grasses in our region are Bermuda and Zoysia. If you aren’t already sure what variety is in your yard, a lawn care professional can help with identification and the creation of a maintenance program sure to keep you yard looking as lush and beautiful as possible. Warm-season grasses don’t handle winter the same way as fescue or bluegrass does. They’re strongest and most prone to root growth once warmth returns in spring; so homeowners with warm-season grasses are better off not performing fall aeration and seeding. They should wait until winter’s end before aerating or seeding their yards.
Fall Aeration and Seeding by Think Green Lawn Care
A thick and healthy lawn is a source of pride, and homeowners often clash over the best methods to achieving the best results. Part of the problem, however, is not realizing how different grass types change through the seasons. A professional lawn care company can assess your property’s needs, deliver the perfect care plan for your yard, and let you know if fall aeration and seeding is right for you.
Contact Think Green Lawn Care for fall aeration and seeding, or if you aren’t sure what type of grass is growing on your property. Visit us online or call (678) 648–2556 today to get started on a beautiful lawn for tomorrow.
