[1] Lack of oxygen in the soil can impact plant growth.
Core aeration is done on turf areas as a means of reducing turf compaction, reducing thatch buildup, improving the infiltration of water/nutrients, encouraging deeper roots, and creating an environment where grass seed can have direct contact with the soil.
[citation needed] There are many types of lawn aerators including walk behind models, ride on versions and tractor pulled versions, as well as spiked shoes.
Commonly, the active ingredient is ammonium lauryl sulfate.
The solution breaks down dense particles in the soil and loosens it up, decreasing compaction and allowing for aeration.