Aeration & Mulching
Services
Aeration & Mulching
Aeration and mulching are foundational practices that directly impact soil health, turf resilience, and plant vigor. The Other Side LLC offers professional core aeration, overseeding, topdressing, and mulching services across Columbia, MO to restore compacted lawns, establish new turf, and conserve moisture in planting beds. These services rejuvenate struggling landscapes and reduce long-term maintenance requirements.
Why Aeration & Mulching Matter
Compacted soil limits root growth by restricting air, water, and nutrient movement to the root zone. Core aeration relieves compaction by removing small plugs of soil, improving oxygen exchange, and enhancing fertilizer and water uptake. When paired with overseeding, aeration encourages new grass plants to establish in thin areas.
Mulching improves soil texture, reduces moisture loss, suppresses weeds, and buffers soil temperatures — protecting roots throughout varying seasons. Proper mulching also contributes to healthy microbial activity in the soil that supports plant nutrient availability.
Key Benefits
Improved root depth and turf density
Enhanced seed-to-soil contact for overseeding success
Reduced water usage through better moisture retention
Lower weed pressure in mulched beds
Healthier shrubs, perennials, and trees with protective mulch zones
Our Aeration Services
Core Aeration
Call (573) 808-1871 to discuss your property and schedule a cleanup.
Overseeding
Applied after aeration to fill bare spots and increase turf density.
Topdressing
Optional topdressing to improve soil structure and incorporate organic matter.
Timing Recommendations
For cool-season grasses common in Columbia, aeration is most effective in early fall when temperatures are conducive to root growth. Spring aeration is possible for specific soil conditions but depends on moisture and turf status.
How We Perform Aeration
Follow-up Care
We provide watering and mowing recommendations to protect new seedlings and speed establishment.
Our Mulching Services
Mulch Types
We commonly use hardwood bark mulch for beds. Other materials can be selected on request.
Mulching Processes
Bed prep, edging, weed removal, and application of mulch to recommended depths (typically 2–3 inches).
Mulch Refresh
Seasonal or annual mulch refreshes to maintain benefits and visual appeal.
Mulch Placement
Proper placement avoids pile-up against tree trunks or stems that can cause rot; we “tuck” mulch to protect crowns and root flares.
Why Proper Timing & Technique Matters
Aeration during wet soil can cause compaction; we avoid aerating when soils are saturated.
Overseeding into aerated soil has higher success due to improved seed-to-soil contact.
Too deep mulch against plant stems can trap moisture and lead to disease; correct depth and placement are essential.
Typical Aeration & Mulching Process
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I aerate?
Ideally, aerate once a year for compacted lawns or every 18–24 months under heavy use. Early fall is usually the best time for cool-season grasses.
Will aeration leave a mess?
Aeration leaves small soil plugs on the surface; these break down naturally and can be left in place or removed. We can run a pass to break up plugs if you prefer.
When is the best time to mulch?
Spring is a common time for fresh mulch to protect emerging roots and reduce weed pressure. Fall mulching also helps insulate roots through winter.
Can I mulch around tree trunks?
Avoid piling mulch directly against trunks. We recommend a donut-shaped mulch ring that keeps mulch away from trunk bases to prevent rot.
How soon can I mow after aeration?
Wait until new seedlings have emerged and reached mowing height typically 3–4 weeks depending on conditions. We provide specific guidance after service.
How to Schedule Aeration & Mulching
01
Call (573) 808-1871 to discuss your property and schedule an assessment.
02
We’ll recommend timing and provide a detailed estimate.
03
Approve the plan and we’ll schedule the aeration and mulch work during the optimal window.
Why Choose The Other Side LLC
We combine equipment, timing, and local experience to maximize the outcomes from aeration and mulching services. Our crews understand the subtleties that help new seed establish and mulch perform its protective role correctly.your landscape for success in the coming season.
Contact
To schedule aeration or a mulch refresh, call (573) 808-1871 or request an estimate through our contact page. We’ll provide a tailored plan that addresses compaction, seeding needs, and ongoing bed care.