If you plan to aerate and overseed with Dowco this year, please keep reading! We answer the most frequently asked questions regarding fall aeration and overseeding.
BEFORE AERATION...
Should I water before aeration?
- Please water thoroughly the day before Dowco aerates. When the soil is moist, the aerator tines are better able to penetrate and release longer plugs of soil. The ground should be damp, but not soggy.
- You can water as soon after aerating as you’d like.
What part of my irrigation system needs to be flagged?
- Flag all irrigation heads and valve boxes.
- Valve boxes are level with the ground and could be black or green.
How should I flag my invisible dog fence?
- Flag the invisible dog fence approximately every 3 feet.
- We want to be able to see the general line/direction.
- If you need a referral for flagging let us know.
What else should be flagged before aeration?
- Flag any other obstacles IN THE LAWN (accent lights, sewers, garden gnomes etc)
Where can I get the flags?
- Dowco has FREE flags available for pick up at our office! We’ll also provide you with a complimentary bag of seed. And we’d love to meet you.
- Home improvement stores also sell flags that are inexpensive.
- Ask your neighbor if you can borrow their flags.
Is paint okay to use?
- No. Unfortunately, paint is not easily visible to the crews when standing behind large equipment.
What else could be used instead of flags?
- We've seen some creative clients use plastic cutlery or wire hangers. Anything that sticks out of the ground and is easily visible should work.
When do I flag the system?
- Please use our online scheduling tool to sign up for a week that works for you.
- You should be flagged, watered and ready to be aerated on the Monday of the week you are scheduled for. Dowco will aerate and seed by Saturday.
What will Dowco do with the flags upon completion?
- Dowco will pick up the flags upon completion and leave them in mulch beds so that they do not rust on the driveway. Bundle and save them for next year!
Can Dowco flag for me?
- Yes. Dowco can flag the system for you at a reduced labor rate of $65.
- Please use our online portal to schedule your irrigation flagging.
AFTER AERATION...
When & how often should I water?
- It is important to water the seeds in immediately.
- The ground should be damp, but not soaking wet.
- There should not be so much water that there is runoff.
How soon can I mow?
- You can mow as soon after aeration as you’d like.
- If you are over-seeding at the same time, the grass may be mowed AFTER the new seed has been watered in.
Do I need to be home on the day of aeration and overseeding?
- Nope!
How long will it take to see results?
- You will see seedlings begin to germinate within 7-10 days.
- Late August seeding will be able to see nice germination before the end of the fall season.
- Late season seedings will over-winter and reach maturity next spring.
When can I mow?
- It is okay to mow weekly AFTER the seed has been thoroughly watered in.
What do I do with leaves?
- DO NOT RAKE THE LEAVES! Seedlings are delicate and have shallow roots.
- The best way to remove leaves is to blow or mulch them up with the lawn mower.
What about fertilization & weed control?
- Dowco will fertilize the seed with a specially formulated product that encourages new seedling growth.
- After seeding, Dowco will not use weed control.
What if a storm comes right after I seed?
- Hooray! The water is great for the seed! It will help to wash the seeds into the aeration holes.
- We will return within 30 days to spot seed any areas that may have experienced excessive run off.
What if I forgot to flag?
- Dowco will not aerate.
- We will put you on the list to reschedule in October.
What if I have a trouble spot?
- Let us know the area in advance so we can pay special attention to this area.
- We will return within 30 days to spot seed trouble areas.
- If you’re feeling extra ambitious, feel free to pick up a free bag of seed at our office at any time!
We are looking forward to helping you beautify your lawn this fall! Use the following link to schedule your fall renovation if you have not done so already.
