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The best options to combat compacted soil.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
If your yard is relatively healthy, however, it may not be worth investing in a lawn aerator.
Rather, we recommend calling up a professional to treat it every couple of years or so as needed.
You will also need a tractor to use it properly.
Credit: Amazon
Overall, our favorite lawn aerator is this pick from Agri-Fab.
It has shorter spikes in comparison to other options.
Safstars Rolling Lawn Aerator is a great option for those who dont want to splurge on a lawn aerator.
Credit: Amazon
At 50 inches long, users dont have to bend over to use it.
Plus, it also features an anti-slip handle and is easy to assemble on your own.
It is gasoline powered, so it not be allowed in certain cities and neighborhoods.
Credit: SLE Equipment
Husqvarnas AR19 is an investment, but we think many of its features make it worth the splurge.
Plus, this pick comes with two 36-pound detachable weights that can be added for better penetration.
We like that this option also features rear wheel control to change the working depth.
Credit: Amazon
Concerned about storage space?
Plus, a semi-pneumatic front tire also helps make storage easier.
Its worth noting that this option is powered by gasoline, which is an added expense.
Credit: Amazon
The 2-inch spikes are shorter than other options.
Lawn aerator shoes, like this pair from Punchau, are a great alternative to standard lawn aerator tools.
Unlike some other pairs, this set comes with the 2-inch spikes already attached.
Credit: Amazon
Unlike other options, youll need to repurchase this pick once it runs out.
When it comes to liquid aeration, we particularly like Covingtons Liquid Aerator.
The loosening of the soil works to promote water movement and drainage.
Additionally, it is safe for use around children and pets.
Do be aware that you will need a hose or sprayer to apply this product.
It is going to require physical labor and more time to complete your lawn in comparison to other options.
Both of the aeration methods reach a depth of 4 inches.
It can also withstand 205 pounds of pressure.
Hodder notes that a small commercial walk-behind unit can range 20 feet and up.
These are perfect for small residential properties.
For this, he is referring to options like theSafstar Rolling Lawn Aerator.
These include options like our best overall pick, theAgri-Fab 48 Inch Plug Lawn Aerator.
Your Questions, Answered
Are lawn aerators and dethatchers the same thing?
Although lawn aerator and dethatcher may seem similar, the tools actually have different uses.
Is a spike or plug aerator better?
Conversely, plug aerators will remove the soil as a plug.
What is the lifespan of a lawn aerator?
How much do lawn aerators cost?
However, there are also less expensive options, like theSafstar Rolling Lawn Aerator.
Martin Hodder, the owner of Hodder Landscaping and Lawncare, also shared insights for this article.
