That’s a statewide problem, because most Kansas lawns have compacted soil, unless given regular help. If for no other reason, the soil’s oxygen gets squeezed out by the traffic of pets, playing children, lawn mowers and the like. Thatch buildup and even lawn irrigation help the strangulation along, said Matt Fagerness, horticulturist at Kansas State University.

He recommends that homeowners core aerate lawns at least once a year, unless they have sandy soils or a brand-new grass stand. Those with severe compaction or thatch will need to aerate twice yearly.

The best time to aerate tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass is March and/or September. Best for bermuda, buffalograss and zoysia is anytime from late May through July, Fagerness said.

To do the job, cores need to be 3 inches deep and no more than 3 inches apart. That usually requires three or more passes over the lawn, with each pass going in a different direction.

Kansans can get more information about lawn management at their county’s K-State Research and Extension office or on the World Wide Web (www.oznet.ksu.edu/library/hort2/lawn.htm).