Aeration is an effective treatment preventing thatch build up (creation of surface mould restricts light and nutrient access to the roots). Soil loosening procedures may be split into two categories: aeration – spiking turf to a depth of approx. 8-10 cm; verticutting – vertical turf cutting to a depth of approx. 7 cm. Vertical turf cutting may be done using special gardening rake or a mechanical verticutter. However, for larger surface areas we would recommend a roller with long spikes.
If you do not have specialist equipment to perform the above treatments – an aerator or a verticutter – use a pitchfork. Spike turf every 20 cm or so then fill with sand.
