Core aeration and dethatching (power-raking) are two common lawn maintenance practices that aim to improve soil health and promote healthy turf growth. However, core aeration is generally considered a better option than dethatching for several reasons. Unlike dethatching, which involves removing the layer of dead plant material from the soil surface, core aeration involves creating small holes in the soil to allow for better air and water penetration, nutrient absorption, and root growth. This process helps to loosen compacted soil and break up thatch, while also promoting the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the soil. Additionally, core aeration is less damaging to the turf than dethatching, which can cause significant damage to the grass blades and roots. Core aeration leaves behind small cores of soil that are left on the lawn to naturally break-down. The cores or plugs act as a natural fertilizer and are a huge benefit to the lawn. Dethatching leaves behind a lot of dead grass that has no benefit to your lawn and that has to be collected and disposed of. While excessive thatch can be problematic for a lawn, some thatch is actually beneficial for the health of the turf. A thin layer of thatch can help to protect the grass roots from temperature extremes and reduce water loss from the soil. It can also provide insulation and cushioning for the turf, making it more resilient to foot traffic and other stresses. Core aeration reduces thatch, but does not eliminate it which allows your lawn to breathe without jeopardizing safety.