COMPACTED SOIL? MEET YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND! Ready to tackle compacted soil and improve your lawn’s health? Here’s what you’ll need for core aeration: A core aerator (preferably with hollow metal tines), moist soil (not too wet or dry), and a drag mat to break up soil plugs. Remember, avoid spike-type aerators—they can make compaction worse if used incorrectly! For DIYers, you can rent a core aerator from a local hardware store, or you can hire it out. Aerate in the fall for cool-season lawns and