No, you're really talking about two different things although both have
similar purposes. Power-raking is for thatch buildup. Thatch happens most
commonly when you use a non-mulching lawn mower and leave the clippings on
the lawn. The clippings pile up faster than they can decompose. These
clippings pile up and prevent air and water from penetrating down to the
roots. Thatch can also harbor disease and pest problems. A good strong
raking is what's required to remove thatch. If you don't have thatch, power
raking is not going to accomplish anything. Thatch can be avoided by
bagging or by using a good mulching mower. If you use a mulching mower, be
sure to mow when you should. If the grass gets too high and you try to take
too much off, the mulching system will not be able to mulch everything and
you run the risk of thatch.

Aeration is to take plugs out of the soil so water and air can penetrate
deeply. It's most beneficial for compacted clay soils. So if you have soil
that gets compacted by animal and people traffic, regular aeration can help
keep your lawn healthy.

"Shane" wrote in message
...
Hey Guys,

I have been told many things the past week and I wanted to see what you
guys
thought. I was going to aerate this weekend, but someone else told me that
power-raking is just as good at aerating. What would you guys recommend?
If
I don't aerate in the spring can I still do during the summer months? Any
information would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

Shane

"Steveo" wrote in message
...
"Shane" wrote:
Thanks Steveo, you have been very helpful!

Shane

No problem, good luck with your turf.


"Steveo" wrote in message
...
"Shane" wrote:
Just a quick question, if you aerate your lawn do you need to
water
it right away? For best results should you fertilize the lawn
after
you aerate?

It is still a little cold to be turning on the sprinklers and I
don't
want any pipes to break so I'm going to hold off water the lawn
for
awhile. Any infoormation would be greatly appreciated!

Shane

1. Be sure there's no frost in the ground when you aerate.

2. Don't forget to mark your heads first.

3. Forget about watering, don't need it.

4. Fertilize anytime after you aerate, doesn't have to be the
same day.