aerating the lawn

[janeyo]

Apologies if this is in the wrong place, couldn't work out where to put it.

I have got an aerator thing to hopefully improve our lawn. I don't think the previous owners of the house have done anything to it for years. I would like to start again but can't afford it so need to patch it and try and get it a bit more healthy. Not much moss but lots of daisies. I will have to dig them out and patch up. Not bothered if it doesn't quite match!

Question is when I have aereated it, it says to put sharp sand in the holes. I don't have any, but I do have lots of play sand. Can I use this instead?

thanks, janeyo

[Matt.]

If its that or nothing I'd put it on. I think the difference is the size and shape of granules. Sharp sand is bigger and has rougher edges meaning its more likley to stay at the surface and trap more air. Smaller particles will work their way deeper meaning you lose the benefit faster.

[piskieinboots]

Indeed I agree with Matt - play sand will not be great as it is very soft, you want some sharp stuff to open it up for better drainage.....oh and walking across the lawn in stillies works well for aeration