Compare Aeration Quotes from Top-Rated Pros Near You

Aeration is the process of removing small plugs of soil from your lawn to relieve compaction and allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. It helps grass grow deeper, reduces thatch buildup, and improves the overall health and thickness of your lawn.

The average aeration job costs $123. Prices vary by yard size and region. You can use LawnGuru to easily compare quotes from the top landscapers working in your neighborhood.

If your soil feels hard, water puddles instead of soaking in, or your grass looks thin and patchy despite regular watering and fertilizing, it’s likely compacted. Lawns with heavy foot traffic or clay soil especially benefit from annual aeration. A simple test: if it’s difficult to push a screwdriver into the ground, your soil is likely compacted.

The best times are during your grass’s active growing season:

• Cool-season lawns (fescue, bluegrass, rye) — early fall or spring.
• Warm-season lawns (Bermuda, zoysia, St. Augustine) — late spring through early summer.

Aerating when grass is actively growing helps it recover quickly and fill in the holes.

Core aeration removes plugs of soil and is the most effective method for relieving compaction. Spike aeration simply pokes holes without removing soil, which can actually increase compaction over time. LawnGuru Providers are required to use commercial grade core aeration equipment for optimal results.

Yes! Aeration opens up the soil, making it the perfect time to apply grass seed or fertilizer. Many homeowners combine aeration with overseeding in the fall for a thicker, greener lawn the following season.

Most lawns can be aerated in under an hour depending on size and access. You don’t need to be home, just make sure your yard is clear of hoses, toys, or pet waste before your provider arrives.

Water your lawn the day before so the soil is slightly moist. This helps the aerator remove clean cores. It’s also a good idea mark any sprinkler heads or shallow irrigation lines to avoid damage.

No, it’s best to leave the plugs on the lawn. They’ll naturally break down within a week or two, returning nutrients and microbes back into the soil as they decompose.

Most lawns benefit from aeration once per year, though heavily used or compacted lawns may need it twice annually. Annual aeration helps maintain healthy root growth and keeps your lawn lush and resilient year-round.