slice seeding v. core aeration

Through the ages, slice (or slit) seeding versus core aeration with overseeding has puzzled even the greenest homeowners. If you search the internet, for every opinion offered supporting one method, you'll find another supporting the other. But there's no reason to be ignorant regarding the terminology. So, if you want to be ready for your next chat with Dr. John Conyers, here's all you need to know.

Slice Seeding: Restores lawn
Slice seeding is used to either repair a damaged lawn or to improve a thin or weak lawn. Sometimes disease and insect damage can thin a lawn so badly that renovation is the last resort. On a new or thin lawn, slice seeding will introduce new seed into the lawn and help thicken it up. This method solves lawn problems efficiently, and improves your lawn’s density. The seeder cuts furrows into the soil and plants the seed into the furrow. This method puts the seed directly in contact with the soil as opposed to merely spreading seeds onto your lawn, many of which will most likely not germinate. Slice seeding plants new seed into the soil without stripping existing sod. It is the best way to renew or thin a heavily thatched lawn and sow in new and improved seed varieties. Slice seeding is the most effective way to ensure good seed to soil contact and prepare the seed bed at the same time. It enables you to have better looking and more resistant grass types that are adapted to the various conditions on your property.

Core aeration with overseeding: Used to thicken and upgrade lawn
Core aeration is the process of mechanically removing plugs of soil and thatch from a lawn. Overseeding is the process of putting seeds into a seed spreader, and then spreading the seeds over the entire lawn. The purpose of core aeration with overseeding is to introduce better grass varieties into your lawn. It reduces soil compaction, minimizes thatch accumulation, and will give you a greener and thicker lawn. Core aeration with overseeding is a great alternative because it combines aeration with specially formulated seeds for your lawn. It is important to note, however, that core aeration will not yield the same results as slice seeding.