Once a year, either in the spring or fall, aerate the soil and overseed the grass for a thick, even turf. Periodically, dethatch so water and fertilizer can easily reach the grass roots. Time spent on these jobs will help keep your lawn looking great.

Aerating: To break up compacted soil, yearly aerating is recommended. It involves pulling up small plugs of soil, thus helping air; water and nutrients get through to the roots of your grass. Your Agway dealer can help you purchase or rent equipment for dethatching and aerating.

Dethatching: Thatch is a layer of not decomposed and partially decomposed organic residue (usually grass clippings) located above the soil. Excessive thatch can prevent water and fertilizer from reaching the grass roots and increase the risk of insects and disease.

Overseeding: After dethatching and aerating, you can sow new seed over existing grass. This will add new life to your lawn and make a thicker turf. Use half the seed amount recommended for new lawns.