- Pulls cores to open soil
- Best for clay and compaction
- Spring or fall timing
- Pairs well with compost
When It Helps
If water runs off to the sidewalk before your 10 minutes is up, the soil is compacted. Pulling plugs lets water and air reach the roots. It matters most on heavy clay areas such as Los Cerritos and Bixby Knolls.
When It Does Not
Sand does not need much aeration. On Peninsula and Shore yards, compost and better water timing help more, so we will tell you to skip it.
Questions We Hear
How often should I aerate?
Once a year is plenty for most lawns that get normal traffic.
Where We Do This Work
Where These Facts Come From
- Contractors State License Board, Choosing the Right Landscaper
- Long Beach Utilities, Lawn to Garden Terms
- Long Beach Utilities, Lawn to Garden Design Requirements
- City of Long Beach memo, Green Parkways Initiative Analysis, May 4 2026
- Long Beach Utilities, Water Use Restrictions
- City of Long Beach Public Works, Public Trees