The Top 7 Aerators for a Healthy and Robust Lawn
The Top 7 Aerators for a Healthy and Robust Lawn
If your lawn gets a lot of foot traffic, or if you live in an area with heavy clay soil, the ground can become easily compacted. This affects your grass’s ability to absorb the water and oxygen it needs for respiration, and can result in a patchy or unhealthy-looking lawn. Aerators are designed to create gaps and holes that allow these elements to easily reach the roots of your grass, resulting in a lush, full lawn. Aerators can be rented from a hardware store (for about $100 a day depending on where you live), but if you’re comfortable with some physical exercise, one of these residential models can be a great option.
1) Agri-Fab 16-Inch Push Spike Aerator
Agri-Fab
amazon.com
If you don’t have the storage space or need for a tow-behind aerator, but still want to be able to cover a decent amount of ground, this 16-inch push model could be just what you’re looking for. It can actually be pushed or pulled, whichever you prefer, and its compact size is convenient for narrow or awkward landscaping areas. Its steel tray can hold up to 35 pounds, but since you have to tip it forwards or backward to use it, you’ll have to secure it in place with tie-downs or bungee cords.
2) Yard Butler Lawn Coring Aerator
Yard Butler
walmart.com
Though it’s a handheld model, this tool is still designed with comfort in mind, thanks to a pair of cushioned handle grips and a foot bar to allow users to generate maximum force during use.
Each plunge removes two 0.5-inch cores 3.5 inches long, and they’re conveniently ejected from the top of the cylinder. Although it’s not as productive as tow-behind models, this model’s durable steel frame and lack of moving parts still make it a valuable, long-lasting tool. If you have a relatively small yard, and don’t mind putting in some physical effort, this could be a great option.
3) Agri-Fab 48-Inch Tow Plug Aerator
Agri-Fab
amazon.com
The 48-inch width of this model makes it well-suited for large yards, and also provides a tray big enough for either cinder blocks or gravel bags. It also features solid rubber tires, so you won’t have to worry about punctures or deflating while you work. It does require some assembly, but the written instructions that come with the unit are straightforward, with detailed illustrations.
If you need more assistance, Agri-Fab also provides video instructions as well, a perk we always appreciate. A universal hitch also makes it easy to hook up to your tractor or riding mower.
4) Agri-Fab 40-Inch Spike Lawn Aerator
Agri-Fab
amazon.com
Ten galvanized steel disks, with eight spikes each, allow this model to create an impressive amount of soil penetration, covering 40 inches with each pass. Its universal hitch makes it easy to attach to whatever machine you decide to tow it behind, and the convenient lever raises and lowers the tray with minimal user effort.
Its heavy weight can be a bit unwieldy, but the 40-pound weight of the unit, plus whatever you decide to load up the tray with, allow it to really penetrate the soil effectively. Its 3-year limited warranty is also a nice perk.
5) Yard Butler Multi Spike Aerator
Yard Butler
amazon.com
For those interested in spike-aerating their yard but who don’t want to invest in a larger, more expensive tow-behind or push version, this Yard Butler model could be just what you’re looking for. A wide foot bar allows you to easily sink the four 3-inch spikes into your grass with each plunge, and its cushioned handle helps reduce slipping and maintain a sturdy grip while you work. This design also makes it easy to hang on the wall when not in use, making it even better for those who don’t have much storage room.
6) Ohuhu Lawn Aerator Shoes
Ohuhu
amazon.com
If you prefer the simple storage and low investment of over-shoe aerators, this model could be the perfect fit. Its 2-inch spikes aren’t as thick or as long as larger models, but if you’re just looking for some moderate spike aeration they should still do the trick. Their hook-and-loop Velcro strap system tightens and secures the platform to your shoes, and allows you to create 13 holes with each footstep. Plus, unlike bulkier options, they can be easily stashed on a shelf or in a cabinet when you're finished working for the day.
7) Brinly Tow Behind Plug Aerator
Brinly
amazon.com
We appreciate the sturdy tow bar on this model, which uses a V-shaped design to connect to your tractor, as opposed to less sturdy single-piece versions. The open core design of the plugging spoon is also a nice feature, reducing the chances of them becoming clogged by rocks or debris. You’ll have to supply your own weight to the tray, but a couple of cinder blocks will do the trick, and only cost a couple of dollars apiece at your local hardware store. Plus, the comprehensive user and instruction manual does a great job of walking you through the assembly process.
If you really want to maximize the growth of your lawn, consider aerating it with one of these handy machines.