Differences between power raking and Lawn Aeration. What is power raking? What is lawn aeration?

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for watching today's video. Check out the description to see the products I used today. If you're looking for the best treatments for your lawn, check out my favorite products: Fertilizer 🛒 Propeat Fertilizer (Home Depot): tinyurl.com/vfmrs480 Yard Equipment 🛒 Sun Joe Scarifier and dethatcher (REQUIRES 12Gaugae Extension Cord) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2MPTHQG 🛒 12gauge 100ft extension cord Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2MQ7hn3 🛒 Thatch Rake Amazon (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/rimz6luc 🛒 Spyker hand held spreader Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/3jAMP6V 🛒 Levelawn Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/31Ry6e9 🛒 Rain Gauge 10 pack Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/3dWEoQU 🛒 Thermometer (Taylor digital thermometer) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/30fvZ7v 🛒 FlowZone Typhoon 2V Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/3rH6ncR DoMyOwn (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/423najqv 🛒 FlowZone Storm Backpack Sprayer Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/3aTOeSt DoMyOwn (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/53g8qmog 🛒 Solo Handheld Sprayer 2 Gallon w/ fan nozzle Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2O2ApHy Herbicides for Cool Season Grass 🛒 Speedzone (For hard to kill weeds) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2UkBVpC Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/y3emhy5a 🛒 T-Zone Herbicide (For hard to do weeds) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2ZWLy3L Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/y4tqhy3o 🛒 Tenacity (Crabgrass and annual grass control) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2L9xzP0 Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/y2go983a 🛒 Non-ionic Surfactant (to be purchased with Tenacity) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2LduNIk Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/y653upkf 🛒 Methylated Seed Oil Duo Stick (Purchase with quinclorac products like drive xlr8) Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/yxt5q2zo 🛒 Drive XLR8 Quinclorac (annual grass killer / crabgrass killer) Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/48b8jssy Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2ZWZI4N 🛒 Quinclorac 1.5L (annual grass killer / crabgrass killer) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/31ywx53 Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/m48nud7m Herbicides Warm Season grass types (READ LABEL FOR GRASS TYPE / WEED TARGET) 🛒 Weed Free Zone (general weed killer) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/3aPRdeB Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/4tlraqeq 🛒 Dismiss NXT (annual grass killer) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/3qbtBaB Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/10xoaovn 🛒 Certainty (annual grass killer/crabgrass killer) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/3d0Lt4c Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/14o52u3i Bug Sprays 🛒 Demand CS (Great to control most pests inside and out) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2muP9Ue Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/v133017a 🛒 Transport mikron (Great for ant control and general pest) Amazon (PAID LINK): amzn.to/2ntfDW8 Domyown (PAID LINK): tinyurl.com/2de4vs6f As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Links marked as “PAID LINK” are affiliated.

[@chrisv.6951]

What ya think about aerating st. Augustine?

[@ShanepxII]

Dude, you rock! That was EXACTLY the info I was looking for. My centipede lawn is doing phenomenal right now and I didn’t want to accidentally destroy it but the dead grass buildup and thatch are very evident if I mow below 3”. The previous owners never removed either and neglected the lawn. I’ve put hundred of hours into leveling, fixing dead patches and fertilizing and mowing trying to get it perfect and finally it’s very close to perfection. I’m going to rent both machines and get this done before the hurricane comes and jacks us up some with flooding...lol. Thank you!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome Shane! Stay safe! Let me know how everything turns out.

[@shannonhathaway4293]

Most people do not understand the difference between thatch and debris. Your video clearly defines both. Well done.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Shannon. It appears to be a confusing subject for a lot of people I agree.

[@richardkimgreene2749]

I took Botany 101 at Ohio State University back in 1970 which stimulated my interest in plants/nature and has been latent until now, my retirement. You are now advancing my field of vision with essential things I can now explore & implement. Stellar video & content!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Richard. Huge compliment. Appreciate it.

[@yvonnealvord8947]

I am in your same position...the lawns today can really get a boost with chemicals, organics, and TLC. May as well enjoy and admire a lawn. Aren't these KZbin videos made by this young guy great?! Plants are wonderful to watch grow. Great Lakes gardener here...

[@jakeviveros9439]

You know it's a great video when you finish watching it and you feel like the expert. I can't wait for my neighbor to ask me what I'm doing so I can sound like the expert he's a real pain in the thatch.

[@pestandlawnginja]

😂😂😂

[@peznee]

Haha

[@Albert-fe8jx]

Excellent content and delivery. A key tip presented about every 50 seconds. I liked the comparison of tools. I also greatly appreciate when you cite and detail specific products which you recommend to treat lawn problems. Please keep up the great sharing of your expertise. You can't find someone with this knowledge at a home improvement store or a farm equipment store. Future videos: clover lawns, nutsedge (the weed that keeps on giving)--so many of the treatments cost a lot and don't seem to be effective in eradication, shaded lawns (you don't seem to have a huge tree on your lawn).

[@pestandlawnginja]

My man! Thanks for the suggestions. I will put them on the white board!

[@tymoney2190]

Albert Farewege r to remind them go hi to to so we R up tyjgq hi y a lz to p u 8e I'll

[@randygriswold45]

Any suggestions for prostrate spurge control?

[@pestandlawnginja]

@@randygriswold45 check speedzone or t-zone and see if it's in the label.

[@johnocallaghan2946]

I bought a house last year with a very unkempt lawn and I've made it worse. I've made the decision to bring it back to life! Thanks for your videos..I was going to borrow my brothers groundskeeper rake but I ended up buying this! Thanks for the review

[@pestandlawnginja]

Awesome! Well done. Now go slay that lawn!

[@demaryjulie9353]

Your video are the best of all the lawn care videos.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Holy wowza. Huge compliment. Thank you.

[@feedback6481]

One of the best videos for getting good lawns, touching thorough almost factors!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Wow, thanks! appreciate the feedback feed back!

[@BikeVisionScotland]

Used a power rake and core aerator last week, over seeded, applied organic fertilizer and also lime to fix the PH. I felt as if i had gone 10 rounds in the ring and the lawns look pretty beat-up too! Looking forward to the results of my labour next year... cheers!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Good luck! Sounds like you're on the right track

[@sjgoff]

Yet another great video. You not only give great tips to achieve a healthier lawn, but you give actual REASONS based in fact and science.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks a ton for the feedback. Really appreciate you noticing the efforts I put in.

[@stuntmanstu1]

Just found your site. My wife calls me a grass nazi cause I dream of a perfect lawn and I try everything to get it. Unfortunately where we live the soil is so sandy and compacted. I bought years ago and was using a cheap Kung fu looking star bladed aerator that just didn’t do a great job. Your video was so informative and I so appreciate the information you gave. I’m going to rent that exact aerator from our local rental equipment shop and hopefully it’ll help get me the lawn I would like to see. Thanks again!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You should aerate, pull the plugs, then top dress with an enriched top soil. Start top dressing light levels every month

[@stuntmanstu1]

@@pestandlawnginja Thank you. I will do just that.

[@e.r.6147]

@@pestandlawnginja ginja means ginger ninja?? 🥷 is there a video on how to properly spread the topsoil?

[@diverdave4056]

...mmm I fire up the ole SUN JOE in March and in late November and it pulls LOADS of dead grass ! Its one SWEET machine ! If you plan to run a power rake - first mow the grass short . Then run the machine and then mow up the mess ! Its much faster and easier then RAKING !

[@graemeroberts2935]

Great job! Your experience is invaluable, and your presentation is great.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Graeme! Appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@davidhurley3593]

Hi ginger. I commented on your video last night and was amazed that you replied. I watch a lot of KZbin videos for different reasons. I am a bespoke cabinet maker and am not a silly bloke. When I watched you... you are very informative with out being boring. God bless you xxxxxx

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks David! You the man. Appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@jackwilenmasonry]

New subscriber!! Great content! Binge watching many lawn service company’s on how to manage my lawn, you sir have hit the point and make it easy for me to understand how to do and next step to take! Now off to watch many more videos from you! Thanks again!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Really appreciate the feedback! Thanks for watching

[@jamesmacdonnell4085]

You are very knowledgeable, thank you for all of your videos. I am in Boston MA, I use earator like yours, I call it the beast...eat your wheaties that morning. I also have 2 slice seeding machines, both 22 inches, both with staight hard slicing blades. The vertical blades makes slit slices into the ground, clean up that top layer of debris, but also dig and loosen the earth for seed prep. So my usual plan is scalp the lawn with a mower, catch clippings. Next I core earate, then I finish with slice seeding. My bluenird has a drop spreader on the front, but I don't use it, I prefer spreading grass seed with a broadcast spreader. Of course, entire lawn gets hand raked before seeding, then one final slice pass to reopen slits, then seeding, then light rake and light roll with water drum roll. This method, for me, has very good germination rates. It is a lot of work and I charge accordingly. Your methods are right on the money, you are very nice to make these videos. Thanks again for all you do.

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome James! Sounds like you've done a great job getting out there and slaying that lawn!

[@joeschlotthauer840]

I think you should do a before and after lawn makeover, and I just so happen to have the perfect lawn for it.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Joe! I'm considering it. The problem I always face is people don't properly water there lawns after the applications or services so it makes it really difficult. That's why I settle to make the series "this is my lawn" so people could visibly see the results.

[@dameianjones6641]

He should be called the grass doctor. I love people that explain as if they’re having a conversation with you and not acting like you’re crazy for not knowing these things. I’ve cut grass since I was 10 but now being a homeowner, it’s just not cutting grass.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for the compliment!

[@johnherman3261]

Hey everyone out there this guy knows his grass!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for the love john!

[@swimbait1]

You know I’ve watched your videos on and off and this one made me hit the subscribe button. I’ve worked with lawns commercially for many years and your advice was spot on. Thanks.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thank you so much. I appreciate it. Feedback positive or negative is always welcome.

[@lovepeacewar32]

Great video! You answered my next questions as if we were having a conversation. Thanks

[@pestandlawnginja]

Awesome! Love hearing that!

[@Teddibere1]

Same here!! As soon as I was thinking "but what about?", it was like Pest and Lawn Ginja heard me...and answered my query. He is SOoooooo brilliant!! Teddy UK.

[@petermiesler9452]

Nicely done. Concise, to the point, no mucho-blah-blah, I feel like I actually learned a few things that'll come in handy..

[@pestandlawnginja]

Really appreciate the feedback

[@kp3509]

Very well spoken, clean videos, and detailed explanation. Good job, and thank you!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for the feedback Ketan! Really appreciate the support

[@rgalbert63]

Outstanding video! Notice the very clear explanation of which method actually removes thatch, i.e. the core aerator, and not the power rake. And yes, power raking before aeration is best, especially when over-seeding in the fall.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for the comment Robert. It's all about that seed to soil contact baby! Have a great day.

[@LifeIsOhana]

You are fantastic! I'm convinced you are the Lawn expert!!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Life is Ohana. Appreciate the feedback.

[@dannyeugenewaits9486]

Damn... About time someone explains the differences and the benefits of both.. And.....gives an Explanation of the benefits of leaving the plugs!! I'm your new follower because of this one video! Thanks a million sir!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome Danny! I appreciate the feedback!

[@denisbrisebois7658]

Cool clip...it clarifies and demystify a lot of things for me. Thanks for sharing !!!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome Denis! Thanks for watching

[@Gexxon]

I hate thatch, it was my problem. Had my gardener come in and remove most of and then aerate it and now my law looks great. It take less water as well. Thanks for the tips as I am a newbie to all this as a first time homeowner. Definitely will be keeping that thatch level down from here on out with proper maintenance.

[@pestandlawnginja]

awesome! Glad I could help!

[@emerickscott]

It seems like you only ever show your small front yard. I'd love to see how your back yard looks.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Brian! Great observation. The backyard has been relatively maintenance free so I forget to give people updates. Great reminder. Thank you .

[@WebbedPete]

Good job! Your "high altitude" comment was spot on: we live at 7100' in Colorado. Brand new lawn 3 years ago. Tried to let the cut grass be mulch... all I got was a thick layer of dead debris, not real thatch. So now a spongy lawn, very hard to mow, etc... and the soil underneath is compacted. Getting ready to power/manual thatch-rake then pull plugs. Not a huge lawn... we'll see if I have the energy to do the manual raking! :)

[@pestandlawnginja]

Exactly. Gets frustrating having to take the debris out too.

[@wcresponder]

Any body ever say you are the Alton Brown of lawn care?

[@pestandlawnginja]

I haven't heard of that LOL. Sounds great though. I'll take it

[@nicholeadams5377]

Thank you for this! My boyfriend's lawn used to look pretty bad. I moved in and went to work. I still have a lot of learning to do, but it's often one of the best lawns on the street. Last fall I rented an aerator and my boyfriend did the work. It killed him but when I told him it's almost time to rent it again, he didn't contest! Maybe he forgot how brutal it was. My guess is that it'll be easier to aerate this year due to my care of the lawn. It's getting more water and isn't hard as a rock anymore (clay soil). I will be purchasing a manual rake as well.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Love it Nichole!!!! Its all in the doing! Well done. Keep me informed.

[@christinemay9611]

I have so many weeds I'm guessing thinly way to get my lawn to do anything is to power rake and add gypsum then maybe re-seed or use Jerry's dawn, beer, and epsom salt fertilizer - last time I aerated, I got more clover! Wish I could have a nice lawn but not gonna happen - I Iive in IL

[@pestandlawnginja]

Hey christine. The primary causation of weeds is not having enough active grass. I would aerate and overseed. Let's start by thickening up the lawn

[@allthingshigh]

Love it when the Pest & Lawn Ginja puts out a new video!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for watching my videos. I really appreciate the feedback. Gets me pumped up for the next one.

[@R3FU3D]

Subbed!!! One of the best lawn care vids I've watched.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Erik. Appreciate the comment.

[@R3FU3D]

@@pestandlawnginja When I email estimates to customers for dethatching or aeration. I'm going to link this video.

[@garypullen4811]

I'm very impressed. You know your lawns. I've learned a ton. It all makes sense. Your presentation was excellent. Thank you so much! Cheers. G

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Gary! Really appreciate the feedback.

[@cwbilb2407]

Brother, you are absolutely awesome. I felt like I was in a Master's level College Class. Thank you.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Wow, thanks!

[@LawnTips]

Hey mate, awesome video, awesome tips, great beard, solid advice. (Can’t believe I haven’t seen your channel around.) Only thing I would disagree on is that liquid ferts are taken up through the foliage and not through the roots. Obviously some is taken up through the roots and some are marketed to be applied to the roots. So that dead matter and thatch will prevent it infiltrating down into the root zone to an extent. But just as much as water would be prevented. But anyway love the vid mate!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Hey there. Thanks for watching! I appreciate the feedback.

[@LawnTips]

Pest and Lawn Ginja no worries man, sorry wasn’t haven’t a dig or anything just expressing my opinion. Haha. I know what it’s like to get annoying comments. Keep up the awesome work

[@pestandlawnginja]

Not annoying at all. you do make a valid point that there is uptake of fertilizer through the blades.

[@randyman8984]

When you aerate could it be classified as doing two services at the same time?(basically a 2-1 ) Aerating is reducing compaction and top dressing at the same time? I know most people are gonna disagree with the top dressing but I think ginja is right on "dont remove the thatch layer plugs"

[@randyman8984]

Make it a 3-1 for the ones who leave the plugs. its good to know youre work is finished after the aerator riding you took lol

[@kaptain_zero623]

Your video presentations are improving at a dramatic rate, well done! I also like the deeper look into "How things work" such as this video, something that others seem to skim over quickly. For my purposes, I've decided to stick with a manual rake... I need the exercise and my 3000 square foot lawn is manageable (but I do work up a sweat). Manual aerating on the other hand... bah. I'll hire someone with a machine! So thank you for taking the time to make these videos, I look forward to each new one.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Chris thanks so much for the feedback! Sounds like you'll be fit as a fiddle sooner than later manually raking hahaha. Thanks again for the comment and watching my videos.

[@saborguerito]

So what about Bermuda grass? Won't the raking break all the runners/stolons?

[@great0789]

I am willing to be that breaking up all of the runners would only cause it to multiply even faster long term. Hopefully he gives you an answer. I am just going off of experience from making a garden with a tiller in patch of Bermuda grass back in the day. lol It did not work out too well.

[@saborguerito]

@@great0789 thanks for the Davis. I have a yard that has prehistoric riverbed and there are NO rocks. I mean not one. It's all a very clay/silt kind of dirt but does have nutrients. It's just hard for grass to penetrate

[@pestandlawnginja]

Flail based power rakes are best for Bermuda. You can also use a vertimower. Spring time is best!

[@rickwithturftyme7264]

Thanks for this Ginja. That was my thought process before I decided to do a full lawn reno. Even afterwards it still makes logical sense. I decided to start a new YT channel dedicated to turf and much credit to you and your wisdom (I name dropped you in my first video :-). Always look forward to your videos, thank you. Rick

[@pestandlawnginja]

Turf Tyme!! Thanks for watching and supporting me. Appreciate you watching and going out and doing the work. Honored to be mentioned in your video. I'll be sure to check it out.

[@toddschulz747]

Nicely done, thanks much!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome todd

[@bobvila4381]

Good video from my fellow Utahn. Been on thatch duty last few weeks got 25 bags worth of dead grass and thatch. Also finished aeration yesterday... Lawn already looks happier. Our problems were thatch and grubs... Now for the grubs.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Bob Vila!!! Sounds like you're dominating your lawn! I'm excited to hear the results!

[@bobvila4381]

Thanks man... I like how you explain the difference between un-multched dead grass and actual thatch I did not know that. I was not going to power rake in the heat because certain people said it was a bad idea but after watching your thatch video I went for it... removing the dead grass/thatch "even in the heat" definitely was the right thing to do as the turf came back really green and thick... So definatley power raking in the heat is ok if it's choking out the lawn. Cheers and good luck with your channel!

[@pestandlawnginja]

I LOVE hearing these stories of success. Thank you so much for sharing. Pumps me up.

[@watchthe1369]

Hmm... power rake, clean up, run the aerator, then run the power rake again to break up the cores and crate a nice even mulch/ thatch layer?

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thats one way of doing it

[@LifeIsOhana]

Nice!! Aerators are a big deal at our house. My dad is so proud that he has super long plugs. My kids think the plugs are poop and stay away from the lawn. This was excellent! This is coming from someone who has been schooled on the best plugs!! Seriously this is a big deal at our house.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Gotta love the poop plug wars 😂👊

[@LifeIsOhana]

My two year old still isn't convinced it's just dirt!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Love it!!!!

[@joshdhankins]

Thanks for the video. I’m in Riverton, UT. Starting to care more and more about my lawn. Who would I contact for a consultation about improving my lawn?

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for asking. check out myallgreen.com .

[@brianyates8527]

Thank you for providing a clear, articulate explanation of the issues and solutions. I feel that you have educated me so that I understand my lawn just a little more...

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome Brian! Thanks for watching

[@yvonnealvord8947]

First of all thanks for taking the time to educate by showing us. Nice lawns and landscapes are extensions of that building in the middle, "HOME"! Through the seasons I have learned so much about my own area and made it into a hobby/fun because it was a chore that had to happen. I don't often subscribe but I do see that you talk my language regarding green. Inspiration is your gift...

[@pestandlawnginja]

Really really appreciate the feedback! I do my best.

[@NateKornell]

Thanks for the vid! Daughter said "I don't think anyone under 30 is watching this" :)

[@pestandlawnginja]

😂😂😂 probably true.

[@MrAbelLowks]

I’m 26! I’ve been involved in landscape since I was a kid. It’s what i know best

[@pestandlawnginja]

@@MrAbelLowks nice!

[@timewithjo248]

I’m 28 haha great video!

[@pestandlawnginja]

@@timewithjo248 thanks for watching young blood

[@ar-2-r]

Great vid. Thanks. I’m watching you here from Europe/Belgium and your tips helped me to deal with this year fungus problem in my lawn. I could not manage it until you made me aware in one of the previous episodes that dead lawn debris might be a cause. After using a thatch rake, the growth of my lawn greatly accelerated. I see much less color issues. I know I am on a good path to further improve. And this current vid gave already additional ideas...thanks again.

[@pestandlawnginja]

YES!!! Artur Henke you are a doer! Love hearing this. My belief is grass is grass. No matter what the region similar issues are similar issues. Thank you for posting your progress.

[@ar-2-r]

I agree. I have cool season type of grass, mainly based on ryegrass and it was rainy spring, followed by really hot summer with temps above 37 C (I guess its close to 100 F). Very similar to what you experience in your region? But here in Europe, we have very limited number of products we can apply on lawns for weeds, fungus, lawn insects, etc. I also noticed during raking that in some parts I have grubs. I cannot treat them chemically. I found only so-called natural or bio products here in Europe. I’m not sure if you have any experience with those? I shell see in September the result. Fortunately my turf is still quite thick and I hope it is going to survive...

[@pestandlawnginja]

keep in touch. Love to hear what happens.

[@ren7sp25]

Hey Artur I also live in Belgium so I know exactly what you're dealing with. My lawn is a mix of ryegrass and red fescue and the fescue, believe it or not, stayed green during this crazy summer. This is with a lawn in full sun the whole day, mowed at 3 inches. The PR was gone lol but is now recovering. So I have been scarifying and raking like crazy, next is spiking, topdressing and overseeding, and praying for rain... These videos are helping a lot and always seem to match with what we are dealing here. Top channel! best of luck

[@pestandlawnginja]

You guys are too kind! really appreciate hearing these stories.

[@nickshapter6546]

"It's cool guy!"

[@pestandlawnginja]

🤣🤣🤣

[@beboboymann3823]

I didn’t know there was a ZZ Top of yard science. Great video. The thatch issue is very confusing for the average guy fighting lawn issues and this is a very educational video.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for the feedback! Glad to hear you liked it.

[@REDRAIN16]

I got one of those green work electric dethaching this year and it worked well enough with two passes. I’m tempted to do my whole yard with a manual rake like the one you showed. Can you do harm by dethaching too much? Say twice a year? Mn Kentucky bluegrass new construction with no top soil put down. They just grade the land then lay the sod on top. We got clay soil here. Thanks for your videos.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Hey Kyle. Fantastic question. Can you do harm by dethatching too much? Yes you can. If you choose to dethatch too often you remove the beneficial bacteria and fungus that naturally drives the grass. You would in turn need to over supplement with macro and micro nutrients in return. Very similar to what golf courses do. Removing the thatch and crown allows you to mow shorter like they do on golf fairways and greens. Its a lot of work if you go down that route and my recommendation is to stick to Kentucky bluegrass types and rye grass types as your primary grass type. I run into homes all the time that lack top soil due to the same situation your in. Amending the soil with soil conditioners is great. If you want a fast forward approach you can get fine grade masonry sand or sand box sand the top dress after you aerate. Doing this a few times per year will change your soil type.

[@REDRAIN16]

Pest and Lawn Ginja Holy crap my man that manual hand dethatcher is a hell of a workout.

[@pestandlawnginja]

NO JOKE!!!! I describe it as the worst job ever hahahahaha

[@timmyc7898]

Great information! I have a horrible case of creeping Charlie, it's everywhere! ☹️ Do you have any suggestions to get rid of it? Thx!

[@randylinney8785]

IIT Kanpur in it to be

[@timange124]

The one thing I’ve noticed you say that no one else has really mentioned is WHY to water a lot once or twice a week instead of every day or every other day. Thank you for clarifying that.

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome Tim!

[@davidkuehl8713]

Very very interesting. Living in Houston with pines that shed 14 months out of the year makes me appreciate this more...😉

[@pestandlawnginja]

Glad its relevant. That's the my whole goal is to make relevant content

[@scout7198]

You are so informative and your video was immensely helpful to me. I appreciate how your deliver FACTS and dispel myths. Thank you!!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome! Thanks for warching!

[@elainearchibald6687]

You sure know your stuff! Loved watching your video and see that you actually knew what you were talking about!! I subscribed and have to binge watch some of the other videos to get some ideas to try to work on my lawn. Canada here...with a badly damaged lawn! It was neglected for years. With my little knowledge, I have tried to maintain it as well as possible. Thank you over and over again for the advice!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're so welcome. Thanks for the comment. Keep in touch

[@mdpfishoh1516]

Thank you sir. I'm having a company come to aerate in early mid-April in Ohio so I plan on renting a dethatcher maybe a week before they come, then I'm going to overseed after they aerate and hit the yard with some 18-24-12. Thank you for the very informative videos. Great content and you make it easy to understand.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Awesome plan! You'll do great!

[@lilymachado7418]

I bought a thatch machine this year and dethatched my lawn for the first time in 30 years!! I removed 3 bags of dead grass.

[@pestandlawnginja]

That's awesome! It is so satisfying

[@johnjackson6623]

What a great video. Thanks for takin the time to teach us folks tryin to learn.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@doa2758]

Clear presentation, informative and USEFUL information. Well done. Thank you.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Don

Nice info. I am a small landscaping startup. I had 1 person ask me if I do thatching and well my dad knows the deal. We gave them an estimate but they said it is too much. So everyone just moved on.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Isn't that the truth! Hahaha. On the flip side if anyone has ever tried to do the power rake and cleanup they'll gladly pay for it.

[@georgejudd1305]

You are absolutely correct, nice to know someone puts out the correct info!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks George!!! Really appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@Mrhvac]

Your video really clarified several things for me about these machines as well as thatch versus dead grass. Thanks for making it.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Awesome and you're welcome

[@MsHburnett]

You are so well informed thanks for making these videos

[@pestandlawnginja]

You're welcome. It's fun and i've enjoyed hearing from everyone. Thanks for the comment.

[@stevegraham3907]

Addressed all my questions, glad I found your video...

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for watching Steve!

[@onewhip9093]

Most informative. Helps me out alot. Just called this morning to rent a aerator. Clearly i need to use the bluebird first. Kudos to you!!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Teddibere1]

SUPERB, super- informative video!! I so wish you were here in the UK - to give my lawn a good "talking to" and sorting out - Lol. Teddy UK xx

[@pestandlawnginja]

Maybe one day! I want to cross the pond and get on your lawns! keep sharing these vids. I'm trying to save my pennies to make that a reality.

[@andylong6589]

I just busted out our old Bluebird Lawn Comber F-20. guessing it is 30 years old. installed new Carb. put the thing to work. Worked Great. this Fall I will plug the yard.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Oldie but goodie right there! These machines are solid, I've never had such luck with an aerator.

[@bstanart]

This video is very satisfying to watch. Great content!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Brian. Appreciate the feedback!

[@andrewwilken9725]

Somehow your videos always speak to my current situation with my lawn. I’m having it aerated in the fall and have been wondering if I need to remove all the dead stuff as well, or if that would be overkill. At 12:00 it’s like you were speaking directly to me haha. Thanks for more great content!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Love it Andrew. I get that question a lot. I can see why it would be confusing. Thanks for watching my videos.

[@kevinpeters1944]

In Michigan with clay soil. Wow I'm tired thinking about 2-3 times a year aerating! Great video though, both are important things to consider going into the fall

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for the comment Kevin. Aerating is tiring for sure! It's worth it though to condition the soil.

[@smast16]

Appreciate the clarification, and for the discovery that my mulching mower doesn't mulch well, lol...

[@pestandlawnginja]

LOL sorry, not sorry jk.... hahaha.

[@Princessgia0313]

@@pestandlawnginja can't you just buy a mulching blade for the mower?

[@MyRusty89]

How is this channel not more popular! Great content, I'm always looking for tips to improve since i work doing yard work and started about a year ago

[@pestandlawnginja]

Huge compliment. Thank you!

[@mikejohnson9118]

1 Should you "Rake" once in one direction, another in the cross direction. 2 Remove all Raked material? Would it make good compost material? 3 How long a wait to cut the grass after the Rake? 4 Any other things to do/not do after Raking? Thx MJ

[@pestandlawnginja]

Hey Mike. 1. yes, either cross hatch or opposite direction. 2. Removing the material is essential with a power rake, non essential with an aeration. Grass commonly makes good compost. 3. You can cut the grass whenever you want. The grass is going to have a bad hair day for about 3 weeks. 4. I recommend using my recovery solution with essentials 1.0.1 or a soil conditioner, 1/4lbs to 1/2lbs nitrogen fertilizer, micro nutrients, and endo mycorrhiza.

[@kelliehall6846]

Lawn Ginja, you rock! I’ve called a couple of popular lawn care companies in my area about power raking my lawn. They said they don’t do power raking and don’t recommend it because it’s too hard on the grass. But the only solution they had for me was to rough it up with a rake and seed it. I’m fairly confident I need something done because I can’t get to the soil underneath without digging and mining through the top layer. Do I keep looking or settle for some aeration?

[@jshrawder49]

Thanks for that explanation. I have wondered about those two machines for a while!!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Happy to help!

[@philipsuter5461]

Best education this year!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Too kind Philip! Thanks for the comment.

[@johnhamilton9229]

You just gave me the motivation to get in the yard. Thanks Ginga

[@pestandlawnginja]

You can do it! Go slay that lawn!

[@The_Music_Tree]

Just bought a house with a 3/4 lawn. Hasn't been taken care of. Looks like it needs top dressing due to dry patches (brown) even with good watering. I have a pull behind plug aerator. Was wondering if I should power rake (I assume I bag all the debris its pulls up), then Aerate. Just sprayed for grubs last week. what order should I do things---Top dress--Power Rake---Plug Aerate--overseed---fertilize (yard is predominantly tall fescue here in Virginia)

[@pestandlawnginja]

I would power rake, aerate, topdress + overseed

[@jeanettecowin8391]

This was great and very timely! just moved and the back yard is a mess. I wondered about the difference and need of both machines. Great content and very helpful. thanks!

[@pestandlawnginja]

You are so welcome! Thank you for the kind words and feedback!

[@hermanwade6701]

After running both of the Machines, what Fertilizer would you recommend

[@stevezitneymurfreesboroten8599]

Thanks for providing so many outstanding DIY Videos, big fella!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Steve!!! Doing my best.

[@Shahzad5814]

Great information, so easy to understand, thanks and please keep up the good work.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks for watching!

[@shekharpatel]

You are a true professional. Your explanations, especially definitions of various problems are easy to understand. For a non professional (home owner mowing his/her lawn), a better option is to bag (and compost) the clippings. A mid to late fall season buzz cut can solve the problem of over-wintering dead grass which may interfere with the next season’s growth. I think the "good thatch" becomes bad when there is accumulation of non-decomposing dead organic layer, and this problem only gets worse with habitual mulching. Mulching could be good for Mother Earth (and a necessity for a professional in mow and blow business) it is NOT good for your Lawn. My solution is to ALWAYS bag and compost the clippings, deep,watering with long intervals and fertilizing using only 3/4 the prescribed rate with granules. Our lawn (15000 sq feet, centipede) is over clay and I have neither power raked (very bad for centipede) nor de thatched in 20 years.

[@pestandlawnginja]

great comment. Thanks for contributing.

[@jakeblakeman654]

Way in depth made me subscribe. Im here in utah just bought my first home with a nice sized yard and I think Im gonna be spending some time fixing it up.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Awesome! Congrats on the home purchase! Thanks for watching.

[@rebeccamachado5449]

thank you for videos.you give excellent replies on people's questions.your replies are as good as video.i have to pause video just to read the comments.it is actually annoying,but thank you

[@pestandlawnginja]

Love it! hahahaha, and thank you

[@SH4MSHEL]

Excellent video!! I checked my lawn and omg there's a lot of dead grass and I was apply a liquid grub control this weekend lol. Power raking will be done before liquid application ;)

[@pestandlawnginja]

perfect. You'll do great

[@grotemuis4889]

Great video, enjoyed watching it. I did not realize lawn care was such a complicated business. No wonder my lawn looks like c**p. And at this stage of my life I don't care anymore. But yours look so nice I feel like I want to walk over it with my bare feet! Lol.

[@pestandlawnginja]

hahaaha, it's not super complicated. You just have to know a few basics to get started.

[@norbertertel2989]

It has really been hot and dry all summer here in the Charlotte, NC area. Even though I rotated fungicide classes as usual, I still lost several lawn areas to brown patch. I have left the dead grass in place for now so the areas will not be over taken with weeds. Will be aerating and reseeding as soon as the heat breaks. Should I be sure and remove all the dead grass from the lawn? Will the dead grass just be a breading ground for more fungus next year, or do the affects of the fungus naturally go way after the grass is dead?

[@pestandlawnginja]

Glad you understand this concept. Yes the dead grass that doesn't decompose is a breeding ground especially for fungus's like brown patch. super common. Brown patch sets in the fall. best to attack it now. I would recommend that you remove the lawn debris and lay down a couple of fungicides after. Be thorough when you remove the lawn debris. I recommend purchasing the sun joe scarifier and dethatcher.

[@rtmunro]

really well done. thank you! you should be on TV

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Rob! Appreciate the compliment

[@faithtalktoday4474]

Excellent video! Very informative. It's all about continued learning about proper lawn care.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Absolutely! Thanks for watching and commenting. appreciate the feedback

[@dezirab09]

Thanks a lot man, just bought a new home and have nasty looking lawn> I will apply definitely everything you said.

[@pestandlawnginja]

Best of luck! Glad I could help

[@MikeJones-cf4wu]

you are the man ! very educational. big time. you are on top of your game ,thank you so much!!!!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Mike Jones!!! thanks

[@jonl.garton4616]

You sure know your business! Great video and tips! Thanks!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Thanks Jon! Really appreciate you watching and commenting

[@nz1229]

Makes lawn care fascinating. Any idea how loud these machines are in decibels?

[@pestandlawnginja]

I have no clue. about as loud as an average lawn mower. One has a honda mower and the other a brigs

[@salvadorgonzalez6516]

Awesome working skills...this is different info compares to what gets repeated over by many "others" in my opinion.. no disrespect no one out there since everyone has different methods

[@pestandlawnginja]

👊😁

[@LifeIsOhana]

You have a super nice lawn and house. I guess that is to be expected..... right! You are the EXPERT

[@pestandlawnginja]

If you go back to episode one of "this is my lawn" it wasn't so nice 3 months ago. Pulled a hat trick to get it this way. Still dealing with shallow roots 😥

[@LifeIsOhana]

Well I'm sure the neighbors are still jealous!

[@pestandlawnginja]

getting there for sure ;)

[@wayneessar7489]

All my tools are different, Eliet verti- cutter instead of flail, 3/8 in solid tine instead of cutting cores, Grounds-keeper spring tine rake but great results never the less! Doing granular leonardite and granular sea kelp, plus soya meal then "pounding" it in with three full Billy Goat aerator passes with the slim, solid tines and getting nice outcomes. Make those roots go deep for their dinner! As always, a very informative video! Thank you!

[@pestandlawnginja]

Love this feedback. Sounds like you have some great equipment! I'm a little jealous. Thanks for commenting.

[@wayneessar7489]

@@pestandlawnginja Your Ryan and Bluebird are the norm here. A huge student staffed service goes door to door with Ryan's in spring but they have no affection for turf grass and plug as fast as possible in a single pass only.

[@pestandlawnginja]

I used to be one of those guys that went door to door with the aerator! We averaged 50 to 55 aerations a day during the spring time. It was crazy how many people would do a figure 8 pass instead of going over the lawn correctly SMH. We ran a good clean operation. We changed the tines out every 2 to 3 season as well.

[@tylerkrug7719]

What's the average price it costs to get that done, very curious

[@wayneessar7489]

@@tylerkrug7719 Kelp is 95$ for 50 pounds, you need ten pounds per thousand square feet, Leonardite is about 10$ for ten pounds and this will treat one thousand square feet. You can apply much more if the soil is poor or sandy. Soya meal is 20$ for 50 pounds and twenty five pounds per thousand will give 3/4 pound of actual nitrogen. Three aerator passes will depend on your machine. I charge about 50$ a thousand including materials.