Each has rubber padded handles and a footrest for ease in pushing the aerator into the soil.Īeration Method: Handheld | Type: Plug | Spike Length: 3.5 inches | Width: 8.75 inches | Power Source: Manual | Dimensions: 1.75 x 8.75 x 36.5 inches | Weight Capacity: Not applicable | Plug Size. Both aerators are made of rust-resistant powder-coated steel, measuring 37 inches high and weighing around 4 pounds. The spike aerator has four 3-inch spikes. The plug type has two tines that will penetrate up to 3.5 inches. Like many handheld aerators, it does require physical effort and only covers a small area at a time, but when used, it can loosen the compacted soil and dethatch your lawn, so vital nutrients can get through.Īside from the plug (core) handheld aerator, Yard Butler offers a spike handheld aerator which is better for sandy or loamy soil. We like the Yard Butler Lawn Coring Aerator because it is both lightweight and durable. If you have a small yard, a handheld aerator is a great affordable option-this type of tool is generally much easier to store and can get into tight places where a tow-behind aerator cannot go. However, we think if you already have the right equipment to attach it to, and have a larger yard with the right soil, this aerator will make quick work of getting your lawn into shape, with little effort.Īeration Method: Rolling tow-behind | Type: Plug | Spike Length: 3 inches | Width: 40 inches | Power Source: Manual | Dimensions: 37 x 51 x 28 inches | Weight Capacity: 150 pounds | Plug Size: 16 gauge Keep in mind that this aerator is more expensive than other options on this list, and if you do have a small yard, a manual option may be a better choice. We also appreciate the easy-to-use transport lever that allows you to disengage the plugs quickly when you want to avoid sidewalks or sprinkler components. Since it is a plug aerator, it is perfect for clay soils and has 'no-flat' tires to handle different terrain without issues.Īlthough you do need to add the weight yourself, we appreciate that the weight tray holds up to 150 pounds of concrete blocks to ensure adequate soil depth. We also think this is an excellent option for bigger yards-the 40-inch width and 24 3-inch plugs help cover large areas quickly. We love that it has a universal hitch that can attach to any lawn tractor, UTV, or ATV, so you don't have to manually move it around your yard. The Brinly-Hardy Tow Behind Plug Aerator wins the top spot on this list for its durable, all-steel construction and ease of use.

The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

You can do this using a manual core aerator, spike aerator, or fork. To aerate the lawn by hand, choose the manual aerator, prepare the yard, moisturize it, and then aerate. The best thing is that you don’t have to rent machines to complete the process as you can aerate manually. It promotes strong and deep turf roots, loosens compacted soil, and encourages water and nutrient absorption. ConclusionĪeration is vital if you desire to have the lushest lawn in your neighborhood. You can also know it’s time to use your lawn aerator if the grass appears weak or thin. As for warm-season turf, aerate from late spring through the early summer. Q: What is the best time for lawn aeration?Ī: The best time to aerate your lawn with cool-season grass is in the fall or early spring. However, you’ll take 30 minutes to one hour to aerate the same yard size using a rolling aerator and other tools. You’ll usually spend about 6-8 hours completing a 7,000-square feet yard. Additionally, the hand aeration tool you’re employing determines how long you’ll spend on the property.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q: How long does it take to aerate manually?Ī: The time you can spend to aerate the lawn manually depends on the yard size. However, the process is tedious and demanding, especially for large yards. It is effective as it quickly penetrates the compacted soil and loosens its particles. Aeration with a forkĪeration with a fork is similar to a spike aerator, and it’s cost-effective if you already own the tool.

Additionally, it aerates the property by making small holes in the lawn to loosen the soil. The tool operates like the manual core aerator but uses spikes instead of cylinders. By a manual spike aeratorĪnother hand aeration method is by using a manual spike aerator. The tool’s sharp cylinders help penetrate the ground and make poles, removing some lawn plugs. It also has a foot bar which offers extra leverage in places with compacted soil. The tool has a handle that you hold with both hands to drive it over the lawn. A manual core aerator offers excellent results when carrying out aeration by hand.

Hand spike aerator