Aerating New Sod

[heygrassman]

How long before you would recommend aeration of newer sod (less than 6 months old).

[rodfather]

I always wait at least a year. It takes that long for the root zone to be established and take hold. I don't think it's a wise idea to run a 300 - 500lb machine over new sod pulling plugs up at the same time.

just my 2 cents.

r

[lawnstudent]

With a roller or drum type aerator (lawnair IV, V, Classen, pull behind etc.) I have had problems on sod up to two years after installation.

jim

[smburgess]

About 3 months is plenty (during growing season). If it hasn't been able to root by then you should have aerated before you laid it!

[Bob Minney]

I have found that if the seams have grown together it has rooted well enough to aerate.

[MOW ED]

I accidently went over some sod that was laid last fall and oh boy am I glad I stopped the tractor and looked down. It began to roll the sod onto the aerator.

I don't recommend it. Made some ruts too. It was the homeowners mistake because he told me there were no problems or concerns prior to aeration, besides it was a friend.