Mow the lawn short
Water the lawn lightly one to two days before aerating
Mark sprinkler heads, utility lines, and other obstacles
Choose a core aerator or spike aerator
Aerate when the soil is moist but not soggy
Make one full pass over the lawn
Make a second pass in the opposite direction if needed
Focus on compacted areas and high-traffic spots
Leave soil plugs on the lawn to break down naturally
Overseed if desired after aerating
Apply fertilizer if desired after aerating
Water the lawn after aerating
Avoid heavy foot traffic for a few days
Aerate cool-season grass in early fall or spring
Aerate warm-season grass in late spring or early summer
Repeat aeration once a year or as needed