How to Prep Your Lawn for Core Aeration In Gurnee, IL
Why Prepping Your Lawn Matters
In Gurnee, Illinois, lawns face challenges like heavy clay soil, cold winters, and hot summers. Proper preparation before core aeration ensures:
Deeper penetration of aeration tines
Better seed-to-soil contact (if overseeding)
Maximum benefits from fertilization and watering
Step 1 – Mark Obstacles and Irrigation Heads
Before aeration day:
Flag sprinkler heads to avoid damage.
Mark shallow utility lines, landscape lighting wires, or pet fences.
Note any delicate garden edges or newly seeded areas.
Step 2 – Mow Your Lawn Short
Cut the grass to about 2 inches the day before aeration. This:
Makes it easier for the aerator to penetrate the soil.
Improves visibility for your service provider.
Step 3 – Water the Lawn (But Don’t Overdo It)
Moist soil allows tines to pull deeper cores. In Gurnee, water your lawn the day before:
20–30 minutes per zone is usually enough.
Avoid overwatering — muddy soil can cause messy plugs and turf damage.
Step 4 – Clear Debris
Remove sticks, rocks, kids’ toys, and anything else that could block the aerator.
This keeps the process smooth and prevents equipment damage.
Step 5 – Plan for Overseeding or Fertilizing
If you’re pairing aeration with overseeding or fertilization:
Have the seed or fertilizer ready for same-day application.
Aeration holes act like mini seed beds and fertilizer channels.
Step 6 – Keep Pets and Kids Off the Lawn
After aeration, your lawn will be dotted with soil plugs. Keep traffic light for at least 24–48 hours to avoid crushing them before they break down.
Extra Tip – Time It Right
For Gurnee lawns, late August to early October is the ideal aeration window. Spring aeration works too if your lawn is compacted after winter — but avoid very early spring when the ground is still saturated.
Get Professional Core Aeration in Gurnee
📞 Call (224) 777-0061 or Request a Quote Online and let Evo Lawn & Landscape handle your aeration prep and service for a healthier, greener lawn.
FAQs – Preparing for Lawn Aeration in Gurnee
Q: Do I need to mow before aeration?
A: Yes — mowing short improves penetration and seed contact.
Q: How wet should my lawn be for aeration?
A: Moist but not muddy. Water 24 hours before if soil is dry.
Q: Should I remove the soil plugs after aeration?
A: No — let them break down naturally to return nutrients to the soil.