In article , Steven Wayne
wrote:

: Scarify with a spring tine rake, aerate with a garden fork.

Thanks! A little extra clarification -

1. I thought a rake is to *collect* things like leaves that are already
loose. Will a rake, even metal one, actually *cut* the thatch, which is
what I think will be needed?

2. In aerating with fork, do I just punch holes in the ground, or do I
have to actually turn the soil over?

Just trying to be careful and not do more harm than good.