Hollow Tine Aeration and Clay Soil Drainage Solutions

Hollow Tine (Core) Aeration

Excellent for compacted clay. Pulls 3–12 inch plugs. Leave plugs on lawn—they break down and feed soil. More plugs = better results.

Never Top-Dress with Sand on Clay

Clay + sand = hardpan (concrete-like layer). This is a classic landscaping mistake that ruins drainage permanently.

Proper Clay Soil Amendment

• Spread 1 inch compost or aged manure after aeration.
• Rake into holes.
• Repeat annually—organic matter gradually improves structure.
• Granulated gypsum (1 inch, watered in deeply each fall) also helps disperse clay particles.

Diagnose the Real Drainage Issue

• Is the area at the bottom of a slope?
• Is there a hardpan layer or high water table?
• What’s the sun exposure? What’s growing (or not)?

Answer these before choosing a solution. Aeration + organic matter is the safe, effective starting point for most clay lawns.