Just like peas and carrots, beneficial things often come in pairs. When it comes to ensuring your Dartmouth overseeding gets the start it needs to really “take root” and thrive, pairing it with Dartmouth core aeration is smart!
Lawn Squad of Southeastern Massachusetts gets the question of whether core aeration is necessary when scheduling a fall overseeding appointment on almost a daily basis this time of year. There are scenarios when core aeration may not be required, but more often the answer is yes.

How Does Core Aeration Contribute To Successful Dartmouth Overseeding?
Although the Southeastern Massachusetts region is known for its Paxton soil (well-draining loam), aeration is a way to ensure seed to soil contact. Not only does this give your seed the best chance at germination, but it also aids in moisture, air and nutrient penetration. Core aeration also helps break up any soil compaction which is prevalent in the fall if it has had heavy foot traffic during the summer months, or a lack of rain.
What If I Just Core Aerated My Dartmouth Lawn In The Spring?
The answer to this question is on a case-by-case basis. Even if you aerated this past spring, your Dartmouth lawn can still benefit from a fall aeration. This is especially the case should you have thatch buildup, high-traffic areas, or if your intent is to seed. Core aeration will create a seedbed and will maximize the effectiveness of overseeding, leading to a thicker, healthier lawn come spring. Additionally, core aeration on its own benefits your lawn’s root system. It helps your grass store nutrients, making it more resilient to the upcoming stresses of winter dormancy.
Here Is A Handy Checklist Of The Reasons To Core Aerate Your Dartmouth Lawn This Fall:
- If you plan to invest in overseeding.
- If your lawn has soil compaction.
- If you have areas that show evidence of heavy foot traffic (this is especially the case in the backyard where homeowners spend a great deal of time during the spring and summer).
- Your lawn is showing signs of thatch build-up. This is often caused by not bagging your grass clippings during the moving season.
- If your turf is discolored after feeding efforts, or the stand of grass is sparse.
- If your lawn had a pest issue the previous season.
- If your lawn is recovering from a fungus or other lawn disease.
Situations where core aeration may not be necessary include instances where overseeding is not planned for the season, and if grass is already dormant which can occur as a result of drought conditions and unusually high temperatures.
Dartmouth Core Aeration + Dartmouth Overseeding = A Good Thing!
When it comes to core and seeding in unison, just as lifestyle and homemaking icon, Martha Stewart always says “it’s a good thing”, Lawn Squad agrees!
Contact Lawn Squad of Southeastern Massachusetts To Get A Good Thing Going Today
Lawn Squad of SE Massachusetts is currently taking appointment for our fall core aeration and overseeding program. We are the trusted, local source for core aeration, overseeding and all your lawn care needs. Contact us today to learn more and secure your spot this season before they fill up! You can also reach us by phone at (774) 382-2769.
In addition to Dartmouth, we are proud to service the local area including Acushnet, Bridgewater, Carver, Easton, and more. Visit our website for a full list of our service area.