Core vs. Plug: Picking the Right Commercial Aerator

Commercial aerators are crucial for maintaining healthy, vibrant lawns and landscapes. They help alleviate soil compaction, improve water infiltration, and enhance nutrient absorption. This guide will help you understand the differences between core and plug aerators and choose the right one for your commercial needs. Both types have their unique benefits and applications.

Understanding Aeration

What is Aeration?

Aeration is the process of creating small holes in the soil to enable air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots of the grass. This promotes deep root growth and results in a healthier, more robust lawn. Benefits of Aeration

  • Improved Root Growth: Roots can expand more freely, leading to healthier plants.
  • Enhanced Water Absorption: Water can reach the root zone more effectively, reducing runoff.
  • Better Nutrient Uptake: Nutrients penetrate deeper into the soil, reaching the roots where they are needed.
  • Reduction in Soil Compaction: Looser soil allows for better air and water movement.
  • Improved Thatch Management: Aeration helps break down thatch, a layer of dead grass that can build up on the soil surface.

Overview of Aerators

Types of Aerators

Different types of aerators include spike, core, and plug aerators. Spike aerators use solid tines to poke holes in the soil, while core and plug aerators remove soil plugs, providing more effective aeration.

Core Aerators

What is a Core Aerator?

Core aerators use hollow tines to remove plugs of soil from the ground. This process helps reduce soil compaction and improves air and water penetration.

Advantages of Core Aerators

  • Effective Soil Compaction Reduction: By removing soil plugs, core aerators relieve compaction.
  • Better Air and Water Penetration: Hollow tines create spaces for air and water to move freely.
  • Enhanced Root Growth: Roots have more room to grow and access essential nutrients.

Disadvantages of Core Aerators

  • Labor-Intensive: Operating a core aerator can be more physically demanding.
  • Multiple Passes Required: For large areas, you may need to make several passes to achieve the desired effect.
  • Temporary Aesthetic Issues: Visible soil plugs on the surface may be unsightly until they break down.

Plug Aerators

What is a Plug Aerator?

Plug aerators remove larger soil plugs compared to core aerators. They are effective in creating larger holes, which can be beneficial in certain scenarios.

Advantages of Plug Aerators

  • Larger Holes for Better Penetration: Larger holes allow for more water and nutrients to reach the roots.
  • Effective for Severely Compacted Soil: Ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic or very compacted soils.

Disadvantages of Plug Aerators

  • Surface Disruption: Larger plugs can be more disruptive to the lawn’s surface.
  • More Cleanup Required: The larger plugs may need to be removed or broken down manually.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Core and Plug Aerators

Soil Type

Different soil types respond differently to aeration. Sandy soils may benefit from core aeration, while clay or heavily compacted soils might require plug aeration.

Lawn Size

For larger areas, the efficiency of the aerator is crucial. Core aerators might be more suitable for smaller to medium-sized lawns, while plug aerators can handle larger spaces more effectively.

Compaction Level

The degree of soil compaction will influence your choice. Heavily compacted soils may benefit more from plug aeration due to the larger holes created.

Frequency of Use

If you plan to aerate frequently, core aerators may be less disruptive and more practical for regular use. Plug aerators, while more disruptive, might be better suited for less frequent, more intensive aeration.

Climate and Weather Conditions

Climate and weather patterns can impact the effectiveness of each aerator type. In wetter climates, core aeration may be preferable, while drier regions might benefit from the deeper penetration of plug aerators.

Application Tips for Effective Aeration

Timing

The best times of the year to aerate are typically in the spring and fall. This allows the lawn to recover quickly and take advantage of optimal growing conditions.

Preparation

Before aerating, mow the lawn and water it lightly. This makes it easier for the aerator to penetrate the soil and reduces wear on the equipment.

Execution

When using the aerator, overlap your passes to ensure complete coverage. Adjust the depth settings based on soil conditions and the specific needs of the lawn.

Post-Aeration Care

After aerating, follow up with fertilizing, watering, and overseeding. This helps the lawn recover and take full advantage of the improved soil conditions.

Make Your Final Decision with 1st Products

Choosing the right commercial aerator depends on various factors, including soil type, lawn size, compaction level, frequency of use, and climate. Both core and plug aerators offer unique benefits that can enhance lawn health and appearance.

Explore 1st Products for high-quality aeration equipment tailored to meet your commercial needs. Contact 1st Products for more information or contact us for further inquiries.

By assessing your specific lawn care needs and understanding the differences between core and plug aerators, you can make an informed decision and maintain a healthier, more vibrant lawn. Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments section below.

10ft MULTI-drill | ND-120

STARTING AT $24,340.28

Drill Type: No-till/Conventional
Meter System: Slide Plate control
Overall Width: 140 in.
Working Width: 126 in.
Dry Weight, (No Aux Box): 4800 lbs
Hitch Type: Cat. II, Cat III 3 point lift (standard) or tow (tow kit optional)
N# of Openers: 14
Spacing: 9 in
HP Required: 80+
Machine Length: 94 in
Machine Height: 64 in
Transport Height: N/A

SEED CAPACITY
Main Box: 18 BU
Aux. Box Weight: 440 lbs.
Small Box: 6.6 BU
Depth Range: 0”-3”
Weight Bracket Capacity: 1000 lbs.

5ft MULTI-drill | ND-60

COMING SOON

Drill Type: No-till/Conventional
Meter System: Slide Plate control
Overall Width: 80 in
Working Width: 54 in
Dry Weight, (No Aux Box): 1780 lbs
Hitch Type: 3 point lift
# of Openers: 6
Spacing: 9 in
HP Required: 40+
Machine Length: 59 in
Machine Height: 64 in
Transport Height: 76 in

SEED CAPACITY
Main Box: 7.7 BU
Aux. Box Weight- 220 lbs.
Small Box: 2.8 BU
Depth Range: 0”-3”
Weight Bracket Cap.: N/A

CM7000-LD

This round module spear can be adapted to loaders, tele-handlers and many other types of lifts.

  • Length- 33” (without spears)
  • 103” (with spears)
  • Width- 65”
  • Height- 56” (storage position)
  • Weight- 841 lbs.
  • Hitch: Mounting Plate Required
  • Lift System:
  • Lifting Capacity: 7000 lbs.
  • Spear:
  • 2 ¼ Round Special Alloy Steel
  • Torque Requirements:
  • ¼ UNC Standard Bolt: 11 ft. lbs. (14 N-m)
  • 5/16 UNC Standard Bolt: 21  ft lbs. (28 N-m)
  • ½ UNC Standard Bolt: 85 ft. lbs (120 N-m)

CM7000-L

This 3 pt. lift round module spear is great for staging modules in the field or at the gin.

  • Length- 33” (without spears)
  • 103” (with spears)
  • Width- 65”
  • Height- 56” (storage position)
  • Weight- 1265 lbs.
  • Hitch- CAT III, IVN, or IV
  • Lift System:
  • Lifting Capacity: 7000 lbs.
  • Module Clearance Height: 30” or Higher (depending on tractor)
  • Spear:
  • 2 ¼ Round Special Alloy Steel
  • Torque Requirements:
  • ¼ UNC Standard Bolt: 11 ft. lbs. (14 N-m)
  • 5/16 UNC Standard Bolt: 21  ft lbs. (28 N-m)
  • ½ UNC Standard Bolt: 85 ft. lbs (120 N-m)

CM7000-HL

Carry cotton high over stalks to prevent tearing and ripping.

  • Length- 58” (without Spears) 146” (with spears)
  • Width- 74”
  • Height- 58” (Storage position)
  • Weight- 2891 lbs.
  • Hitch- CAT III, IVN, or IV
  • Hydraulic Cylinder- 
  • Bore: 6”
  • Stroke: 20”
  • Max Working Pressure: 3000 psi
  • Lift System:
  • Lifting Capacity- 7000 lbs.
  • Module Clearance height: 
  • 60” Lift Links @ 39” or higher (depending on tractor)
  • Spear:
  • 2 ¼ Round Special Alloy Steel
  • Torque Requirements: 
  • ¼ UNC Standard Bolt: 11 ft. lbs. (14 N-m)
  • 5/16 UNC Standard Bolt: 21  ft lbs. (28 N-m)
  • ½ UNC Standard Bolt: 85 ft. lbs (120 N-m)

12ft MULTI-drill | ND-144

STARTING AT $25,308

  • Cover for storage
  • Rear Step and Walk Board
  • Weight Bracket
  • Aux. Seedbox
  • 4 Stainless Steel Seed
  • Plates for Various Seeds
  • Variable Speed Electric Drive
  • Conventional and No-Till Capability

8ft MULTI-drill | ND-96

STARTING AT $14,052

  • Cover for storage
  • Rear Step and Walk Board
  • Weight Bracket
  • Aux. Seedbox
  • 4 Stainless Steel Seed
  • Plates for Various Seeds
  • Variable Speed Electric Drive
  • Conventional and No-Till Capability

6ft MULTI-drill | ND-72

STARTING AT $12,699

  • Cover for storage
  • Rear Step and Walk Board
  • Weight Bracket
  • Aux. Seedbox
  • 4 Stainless Steel Seed
  • Plates for Various Seeds
  • Variable Speed Electric Drive
  • Conventional and No-Till Capability

5ft MULTI-drill | ND-60T

STARTING AT $10,602

  • Cover for storage
  • Rear Step and Walk Board
  • Aux. Seedbox
  • 4 Stainless Steel Seed plates for Various Seeds
  • Variable Speed Electric Drive
  • Self-Contained Lift
  • Conventional and No-Till Capability

AG144 AGRI-vator - 12'

Facilitates seed growth and helps you get the results you want for your farm. Break apart the soil without doing damage to the surface turf.

  • Weight 2825 lbs
  • Center Drive Gearbox 1:1.5 Tee
  • End Drive 3 Cx Belts (Left End)
  • Tine Vibration Frequency @ 540 PTO RPM = 1026 Cycles/Min
  • Side-to-Side Tine Travel 2 1/4 inches
  • Vibrating Depth 6 Inches
  • Aeration Density 5 Holes per sq. ft.
  • Tines 3/4 X 6” Forged And Hardened (144)
  • Rotor Bearings Double Sealed Tapered Roller
  • Drive Line 1 3/8” Spline w/ Safety Shield
  • Finish Black Acrylic w Grey Trim
  • Tractor HP required- 45, 60, 80

AG96 AGRI-vator - 8'

Facilitates seed growth and helps you get the results you want for your farm. Break apart the soil without doing damage to the surface turf.

  • Weight 2045 lbs
  • Center Drive Gearbox 1:1.5 Tee
  • End Drive 2 Cx Belts (Left End)
  • Tine Vibration Frequency @ 540 PTO RPM = 1026 Cycles/Min
  • Side-to-Side Tine Travel 2 1/4 inches
  • Vibrating Depth 6 Inches
  • Aeration Density 5 Holes per sq. ft.
  • Tines 3/4 X 6” Forged And Hardened (144)
  • Rotor Bearings Double Sealed Tapered Roller
  • Drive Line 1 3/8” Spline w/ Safety Shield
  • Finish Black Acrylic w Grey Trim
  • Tractor HP required- 45, 60, 80

AG72 AGRI-vator - 6'

Facilitates seed growth and helps you get the results you want for your farm. Break apart the soil without doing damage to the surface turf.

  • Weight 1630 lbs
  • Center Drive Gearbox 1:1.5 Tee
  • End Drive 3 Cx Belts (Left End)
  • Tine Vibration Frequency @ 540 PTO RPM = 1026 Cycles/Min
  • Side-to-Side Tine Travel 2 1/4 inches
  • Vibrating Depth 6 Inches
  • Aeration Density 5 Holes per sq. ft.
  • Tines 3/4 X 6” Forged And Hardened (144)
  • Rotor Bearings Double Sealed Tapered Roller
  • Drive Line 1 3/8” Spline w/ Safety Shield
  • Finish Black Acrylic w Grey Trim
  • Tractor HP required- 45, 60, 80

AE40E AERA-vator Tow Behind

If you have tight spaces that need maintaining, the AE-40E: AERA-vator is the turf aerator for you. As a tow-behind used in conjunction with small mowers or other vehicles, its versatility is unmatched.

  • WEIGHT: 577 lbs.
  • OVERALL WIDTH: 47″
  • WORKING WIDTH: 40″
  • ENGINE: 11 HP Honda w/ 6:1 Reduction
  • END DRIVE: 2- Power Rated Belts
  • TINES: 9/16″ x 3 ¾ Forged and Hardened
  • TINE VIBRATION FREQUENCY: 825 Cycles/Min @ 3600 RPM
  • OUTSIDE-TO-OUTSIDE TINE TRAVEL: 1 3/8″
  • VIBRATION DEPTH: 3 ¾” including tine Nut
  • AERATION DENSITY: 8 holes per sq/ft.
  • ROTOR BEARINGS: Double sealed tapered Roller
  • FINISH: Black & Grey Acrylic
  • VOLTAGE: 12 V
  • TONGUE DRAFT PULL: 100 lbs. (Operation)
  • WEIGHT CAPACITY: 400 lbs.

Groundmaster® 360: AERA-vator

The Groundmaster® 360 works with four of the 1st Products 60” shafts (AERA-vator 60” Shaft, Slicer 60” Shaft, Multi-tine 60” Shaft , Coring 60” Shaft) enhancing and complimenting the versatility of the GM®360. Order below or click here for more information about the Groundmaster commercial aerator.

  • Weight 479 lbs
  • Working Width60″
  • Overall width 66″
  • Center Drive Gearbox 1:3 Rt. Angle
  • End Drive (4) BX 46 Belts (left end)
  • Tine Vibration Frequency @2000 PTO RPM=800 Cycles/Min
  • Lift manual or optional Hydraulic Top Link
  • Finish Black Acrylic w/ Grey Trim
  • Power Source see specs of Toro Groundsmaster 360
  • Universal Shaft System

Universal AERA-vator 60T

The UA60T AERA-vator is a self-contained, towable 60” AERA-vator that trails easily behind any UTV or commercial grade mower. Its features are desirable for any school, municipality or sports complex. The self-contained aerator is powered by a 23hp engine and operated by a remote lanyard. The Universal Shaft System is integrated into the UA60T for added versatility.

  • Weight 1041 lbs
  • Working width 60″
  • Overall Width 94″
  • Center Drive Gearbox 1:3 Rt. Angle
  • End Drive (4) BX Belts (left end)
  • Tine Vibration Frequency @3600 Engine RPM=800 Cycles/ Min.
  • Engine Gas Honda 28 HP Horizontal Shaft
  • Finish Black Acrylic w/ Grey Trim
  • Lift Hydraulic
  • Electric 12V Electric Clutch Actuated
  • Operation Controller Tethered Handheld
  • Operation Position rear or offset
  • Transportation DOT approved for Highway use (for transport only)
  • Provided with Certificate of Origin

DO40 AERA-vator Mini Skid Steer

Our 1st Products DO-40: AERA-vator is a versatile soil aerator attachment for your mini-skid steer /compact utility loader and is the perfect tool for construction and renovation projects. The DO-40 side to side tine movement levels heavy traffic areas and prepares a great seedbed with less prep work. With the optional seeder, seed placement is broadcast on top of the rotors allowing seeding in both forward and reverse, reducing turnaround time.

  • Weight- 312 lbs.
  • Drive- Hydraulic motor
  • End Drive- 2” BX42 belys (left end)
  • Side to Side tine travel- 1 3/8”
  • Vibrating depth- 3 ¾”
  • Overall Width- 44”
  • Working width- 40”
  • Aeration density- 9 holes per sq. ft.
  • Tines- 9/16”x 3 ¾” forged and hardened
  • Rotor Bearings- Double Sealed Tapered Roller
  • Finish- Black Acrylic w/ Gray Trim
  • Minimum of 1800 PSI @ 8 GPM

VC40/VC60 Sprig Digger

The VC40 and VC60 can both be converted into a sprig digger simply by changing the VERTI-cutter shaft to the Sprig Digger shaft. Both have a 40″ working width.
 
  • Weight- 91 lbs
  • Blade- ¼” Hardox Banana Blade
  • Working width- 36”
  • Spacing- 3”
  • Rotation- forward

VC 60 VERTI-cutter

The VERTI-cutter’s patented swing-hitch allows the unit to turn during operation increasing maneuverability and the belt drive with 12” diameter blades provides a faster blade RPM (tip speed) improving quality of cut.

  • Working Width: 54”
  • Blades: 10GA Carbide Tip, 10GA Hardened Steel
  • Blade Spacing: Rollers 1.5 – 2″, Skids 2″ Only
  • Blade Depth Control: 0 – 1 7/8”
  • Blade Shaft: 1 5/8” Hex Stress Proof
  • Blade Rotation: Forward
  • Hitch: Patented 3 PT CAT.1 Trailing Hitch
  • Drive: 540 PTO Gearbox, 3 belts
  • Required HP: 20-45 Varies by Cutting Depth
  • Frame: All Welded Steel Construction
  • Weight: 900 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 70” w,46” l, 41” h
  • Gearbox: Heavy Duty 42 HP (31 KW)

VC 40 VERTI-cutter

1st Products introduces a smaller, compact version of the same quality. The VC40 offers tighter blade spacing from and ½”-2” spacing and an optional thinner blade, makes it the best VERTI-cutter for compact tractors.

  • Working Width: 35 1/2”
  • Blades: 10GA Carbide Tip, 16GA Carbide Tip, 10GA Hardened Steel
  • Blade Spacing: Rollers 1/2” – 2” (1/4” Increments)
  • Blade Depth Control: 0 – 1 7/8”
  • Blade Shaft: 1 5/8” Hex Stress Proof
  • Blade Rotation: Forward
  • Hitch: Patented 3 PT CAT.1 Trailing Hitch
  • Drive: 540 PTO Gearbox, 3 belts
  • Required HP: 20-45 Varies by Cutting Depth
  • Frame: All Welded Steel Construction
  • Weight: 800 lbs.
  • Dimensions: 51” w, 24” l, 44” h
  • Gearbox: Heavy Duty 42 HP (31 KW)

500-1750 lb Fertilizer Hopper

The new low profile box is wider and easier to fill. The variable speed ground drive allows for 75 quick-rate changes and requires NO TOOLS to adjust.

  • 2, 3, or 4 Outlets Stainless Steel Hopper and Auger
  • Mounts available for Flat, 3 1/2 – 4” Diamond, and Pittsburgh Cultivators (order kit bundles)
  • 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 row Tool bars available 
  • Removable Auger Trough for easy cleaning
  • Stainless Steel Latches
  • Ground, Hydraulic or Electric Drive
  • Variable Speed Ground drive- 60-1750 lbs/ac.
  • Hydraulic Drive- 70-1825 lbs/ac.
  • 500 lb Hopper capacity
  • Additional 500 lb and 750 lb extensions available for more capacity.
  • Stainless Steel screen 
  • Stainless Steel Bridges 
  • Box Covers
  • Flexible Hoses

Orchard Fertilizer Applicator

Designed to apply granular material to orchard rows, vineyards, and trees.

With adjustments to accommodate up to 12’ Rows, each hopper has its own variable rate electric drive that will apply 31lbs up to 2000 lbs per acre depending on row spacing. The Orchard Frame bar can be operated with 1 or 2 hoppers.

The 250lb. stainless’ hoppers capacity can be doubled to 500lbs. per hopper by adding the optional extension. The optianl stainless steel lid keeps yur material dry over night. The spouts and hoses can be adjusted for precise fertilizer placement.

  • Up to 12’ rows
  • Variable rate electric drive
  • 31-2000 lbs. per acre
  • 1 or 2 row
  • 250-500lb hopper capacity
  • Stainless Steel hopper and auger
  • Removeable trough for easy clean out
  • Optional stainless steel lid

250-500 lb Fertilizer Hopper

The Economy Fertilzer Applicator is the ideal setup for small acres such as food plots, home gardens, and vegetable growers. This all stainless steel hopper consists of 2 or 3 outlets, removeable auger trough for easy cleaning, 250 lb. capacity hopper. Add the 250 lb. extension to increase capacity to 500 lbs.

  • 2 or 3 outlet Stainless Steel Hopper and Auger
  • Removable Auger Trough for Easy Cleaning
  • Stainless Steel Latches
  • Flexible hoses for maximum elasticity 
  • Ground or Electric Drive available 
  • Ground drive- 42-600 lbs/ac (depending on row spacing)
  • Electric Drive 31-2000lbs/ac (depending on row spacing)
  • 250 lb. hopper capacity
  • Optional 250 lb. stainless extension available for more capacity
  • Optional Stainless Steel lid available
  • Mounts for Pittsburg, 2 ½ Diamond, and Flat Tool Bar included.
  • Side Dress 3-pt frame and Pittsburg Frame available separately.