15 Best Plug Aerator for Lawns (2021)
Are you tired of seeing bare patches of grass on your lawn? Then perhaps it’s time you look into the best plug aerator for lawns. Good thing, I’ve just what you need!
I’m pretty sure you’ll agree with me that maintaining a lawn requires a lot of work. To make your lawn verdant and lush, you need to mow and water it. As if that’s not enough, you also need to root out weeds from time to time.
But the most frustrating thing in maintaining a lawn is the fact that despite our best efforts, it’s not looking any better. Bare patches of grass persist.
If this looks familiar to you, then it means you have compacted soil. No worries because this is pretty common. Most growers who have recreational lawns or heavy clay soil experience it. When compaction occurs, water, air, and nutrients can’t penetrate the soil hence not reaching the roots. To make matters worse, you also get a thick thatch between the soil and grass.
Good thing, you can avoid these issues by buying the best plug aerator for lawns. In this article, I’m going to review the best plug aerator for lawns. Not to mention, I also included tips on how you can properly aerate your lawn. So, what are you waiting for? Keep on reading!
Table of Contents
Quick Overview of the Best Plug Aerator for Lawns (in no particular order)
Best Plug Aerator for Lawns (Tow-Behind)
Best Plug Aerator for Lawns (Manual)
Truly Holey Manual Lawn Aerator Tool – 5 Pounds – Two Prong – Foot Bar – 38 in Height, 7 ½ in Wide
Gardzen Plug Aeration, Hand Hollow Tine Lawn Aerator, Heavy Duty Aerator for Compacted Soils and Lawns, 35″ x 11″, Black
Best Plug Aerator for Lawns (Electric/Gas-Powered)
Sun Joe AJ801E 13 in. 12 Amp Electric Scarifier + Lawn Dethatcher w/Collection Bag, Green
In-Depth Reviews of the
Best Plug Aerator for Lawns
Interested in knowing why they landed on the list of the best plug aerator for lawns? Great! This part discusses each of their unique characteristics. Besides that, I also included the downsides and upsides when using them. Hence, it’s easier to find one that’ll fit your lawn’s needs!
Agri-Fab 45-0299 48-Inch Tow Plug Aerator, Orange & Black, Large
When it comes to tow-behind plug aerators, you’ll never go wrong with getting Agri Fab models. Landing as one of the best plug aerators for lawns is everyone’s favorite Agri-Fab 45-0299 Tow Plug Aerator. Let me give you hint: this will help your lawn look its best in no time.
Key Features
This is by far my most favorite heavy-duty plug aerator! And I’m pretty sure you’re going to love it, too.
For one, it comes with a universal hitch hence making it a perfect choice for any type of lawnmowers and tractors. Moreover, it’s perfect for large lawns, thanks to its 48-inch swath. As if that’s not enough, you’ll also get 32 galvanized tines hence you’re sure that it can penetrate and pull up to about three inches of soil plugs.
But here’s my favorite: its container can hold up to 175 pounds of weight. As you may know, the soil may still feel spongey and dry even after a day of watering. When this happens, I find that maximizing the weight capacity helps the plug aerator to penetrate much deeper into the soil.
Pros
- 48-inches wide — perfect for aerating large lawns
- Comes with a universal hitch, container, and 32 galvanized tines
- Has a high-gauge steel body
- Features an easy-to-use lever to engage and disengage tines
Con
- Some might find the plastic flat-free tires flimsy.
Agri-Fab 45-0518 40" Tow Plug Aerator,black
Here comes another great tow-behind plug aerator from Agri Fab. Compared to the 48-inch model, I find that this one’s easier to maneuver on narrower areas.
Hence, if you’re needing a premium plug aerator for your medium-sized lawn, then the Agri Fab 45-0518 Tow Plug Aerator is the way to go!
Key Features
You’ll love that it has a 40-inch swath which is wide enough to aerate large areas. This also has 24 galvanized tines that can pull up about three inches of soil plugs.
Similar to its 48-inch counterpart, this has a universal hitch hence you can attach it to any small tractor, a lawnmower, or an ATV. Oh, another thing, unlike the 48-inch model, you’ll only need to add extra weight of 140 pounds on this one to penetrate deeper into the soil.
Pros
- 40- inches wide — perfect for aerating medium-sized lawns
- Comes with a universal hitch, container, and 24 galvanized tines
- Has a high-gauge steel body
- Features an easy-to-use lever to engage and disengage tines
Con
- Some might find the plastic flat-free tires flimsy.
Brinly PA-40BH Tow-Behind Plug Aerator, 40-Inch
Trying to find a high-quality yet more affordable alternative to the Agri Fab 40” Tow Plug Aerator? Then, this one’s for you!
Key Features
You’ll love that it works as well as the premium ones without leaving a hole in your pocket. Like the Agri Fab 45-0518, it’s 40-inches wide. It also has 24 heat-treated tines that can penetrate the soil up to 3 inches deep.
In case you’re wondering, the Brinly PA-40BH can hold up to 150 pounds of extra weight. It also comes with a universal hitch hence you can attach it to any mowers, tractors, or ATVs.
Pros
- 40- inches wide — perfect for aerating medium-sized lawns
- Comes with a universal hitch, container, and 24 heat-treated tines
- Has a high-gauge steel body
Cons
- Some might find the plastic flat-free tires flimsy.
- Bolts may easily unscrew. Hence, I suggest you check them every after use.
- Some might find the lever difficult to maneuver.
Brinly PA-48BH Tow-Behind Plug Aerator, 48-Inch
Trying to find a more affordable alternative to the Agri Fab 48” Tow Plug Aerator? Then consider yourself lucky because Brinley has just what you need!
Key Features
You’ll love that it works as well as the Agri Fab 48” model without leaving a hole in your pocket. It’s also 48-inches wide hence, making it a perfect choice for large lawns. Moreover, it also has 32 heat-treated tines that can penetrate the soil up to 3 inches deep.
But unlike the Agri Fab 48” model, this one can hold an extra weight of 200 pounds. So, I suggest you maximize that for deep soil penetration! It also comes with a universal hitch hence you can attach it to any mowers, tractors, or ATVs.
Pros
- 48- inches wide — perfect for aerating large lawns
- Comes with a universal hitch, container, and 32 heat-treated tines
- Has a high-gauge steel body
Cons
- Some might find the plastic flat-free tires flimsy.
- Some might find the lever difficult to maneuver.
Craftsman CMXGZBF7124213 40 Tow Plug Aerator, Red
When you thought Agri Fab can’t release another great heavy-duty 40” tow plug aerator, here comes their Craftsman model.
Key Features
Like the Agri Fab 45-0518, this one also has a 40-inch swath, which is perfect for medium-sized lawns. It also has 24 galvanized tines that can penetrate the soil up to 3 inches deep.
In case you’re wondering, this can hold up to 140 pounds of extra weight. It also comes with a universal hitch hence you can attach it to any mowers, tractors, or ATVs.
But here’s my favorite: the tines are too sharp. Hence, you’ll know that they’ll effectively aerate your lawn in no time.
Pros
- 40- inches wide — perfect for aerating medium-sized lawns
- Comes with a universal hitch, container, and 24 extremely sharp galvanized tines
- Has a high-gauge steel body
- Features an easy-to-use lever to engage and disengage tines
Cons
- Some might find the plastic flat-free tires flimsy.
- Some might find the lever difficult to maneuver.
- Since the tines are incredibly sharp, I suggest you wear gloves when setting this up.
Yard Butler Lawn Coring Aerator Manual Grass Dethatching Turf Plug Core
Believe it or not, there’s no such rule that you need to aerate your whole lawn. Oftentimes, spot treating with a good manual plug aerator can do the trick.
Hence, if you notice only a few compacted areas on your lawn, then I suggest you opt for my best pick manual plug aerator — Yard Butler Lawn Coring Aerator!
Key Features
If you think all manual lawn aerators work the same, then think again. To ensure the best results, you have to get a manual coring aerator that has two or more hollow tines and a comfortable handle. Moreover, it should be sturdy and easy to use.
Luckily for you, Yard Butler Coring Aerator ticks those off. It has two hollow tines that can pull up about 3.5 inches of sod plugs. You’ll also love that this has a comfortable, cushioned handle.
Moreover, it’s also 37-inches long so you’re sure that back pain won’t be an issue. Not to mention, it’s so easy to use, thanks to the perfectly-designed footplate. As if that’s not enough, it also boasts of a durable steel body which is great!
Pros
- Perfect for spot treating compacted areas
- Two hollow tines can pull up about 3.5 inches of plugs
- 37- inches long to prevent back pain
- Perfectly-designed footplate
- Comfortable cushioned handle
- Durable and sturdy
Con
- Might be prone to clogging. Hence, I suggest you soak it in water every after use for easier cleaning!
Truly Holey Manual Lawn Aerator Tool - 5 Pounds - Two Prong - Foot Bar - 38 in Height
Need to get rid of extremely deep soil plugs? Then the Truly Holey Manual Lawn Aerator is the perfect one for you!
Key Features
Similar to the Yard Butler Coring Aerator, this has two hollow tines. But unlike the former, you can get 4 inches of sod plugs with the Truly Holey Aerator. You also don’t need to worry about getting those nasty, red blisters as this has a comfortable, cushioned handle.
Moreover, it’s also 38- inches long. It also has a reliable footplate. As if that’s not enough, it also boasts of a durable steel body.
Pros
- Perfect for spot treating compacted areas
- Two hollow tines can pull up about 4 inches of plugs
- 38-inches long to prevent back pain
- Perfectly-designed footplate
- Comfortable cushioned handle
- Durable and sturdy
Cons
- Might be prone to clogging. Hence, I suggest you soak it in water every after use for easier cleaning!
- This product does not have a flow-through-the-top design. I find that this may be an issue for those with heavy, sticky clay soil.
Corona LG 3604 YardBREATHER Manual Core Lawn Aerator, Red
Who would want to get nasty, red blisters? Good thing, the Corona Yard Breather won’t ever let you worry about those. Not to mention, it’s affordable, too!
Key Features
Similar to the Yard Butler Cording Aerator, this has two hollow tines that can pull up about 3.5 inches of sod plugs.
Moreover, it’s also 38-inches long. Not to mention, it’s so easy to use, thanks to the perfectly-designed and slip-resistant footplate. As if that’s not enough, it also boasts of a durable steel body.
But here’s my favorite: you’ll never have to worry about getting those nasty, red blisters as this has a comfortable, gel-cushioned handle.
Pros
- Perfect for spot treating compacted areas
- Two hollow tines can pull up about 3.5 inches of plugs
- 38- inches long to prevent back pain
- Perfectly-designed, slip-resistant footplate
- Comfortable cushioned handle
- Durable and sturdy
Con
- Might be prone to clogging. Hence, I suggest you soak it in water every after use for easier cleaning!
Step 'N Tilt Core Lawn Aerator Version 3 (with Container)
Looking for a high-quality manual aerator at a fair price? Then, check out Step ‘N Tilt Core Lawn Aerator.
Key Features
I kid you not. This is not your usual manual plug aerator. With this product, you don’t just get two tines but four! Not only that, this has different functionality than most manual aerators.
Firstly, you step on the footplate to insert the tines into the soil. Then, you tilt the handlebar back to remove the tines from the ground.
Similar to others on this list, the Step ‘N Tilt model can pull up about 3.5 inches of sod plugs. Moreover, it’s also 41-inches long. Not to mention, it also boasts of a durable steel body.
But here’s my favorite: you’ll get a container with this. In case you’re wondering, this will help catch the ejected sod plugs so you can use them later when you need to fill up ruts.
Pros
- Perfect for spot treating compacted areas
- Four hollow tines can pull up about 3.5 inches of plugs
- 41-inches long to prevent back pain
- Perfectly-designed footplate
- Durable and sturdy
- Has a sod plugs container
- Has wheels
Cons
- Might be prone to clogging. Hence, I suggest you soak it in water every after use for easier cleaning!
- Some might find the handlebar uncomfortable to use
Gardzen Plug Aeration, Hand Hollow Tine Lawn Aerator, Heavy Duty Aerator for Compacted Soils and Lawns, 35" x 11", Black
Why do it yourself when you’ve got kids to do it for you? All jokes aside, the Gardzen Plug Aerator is just the perfect tool to get your kids to help you with lawn care routine. It has just the right height for operators that are between 4-5 feet tall. Oh, and before I forget to mention, it’s incredibly cheap, too!
Key Features
You’ll love that it’s only 35- inches long— perfect for growers who are 4-5 feet tall. But unlike other most manual plug aerators, this can only pull up about 3 inches of sod plugs. Not to mention, it also boasts of a durable steel body.
Like others on the list, the Gardzen Plug Aerator has a comfortable handle. It’s also easy to use, thanks to the perfectly-designed footplate.
Pros
- Perfect for spot treating compacted areas
- Two hollow tines can pull up about 3 inches of plugs
- 35- inches long for growers who are 4-5 feet tall
- Perfectly-designed footplate
- Comfortable cushioned handle
- Durable and sturdy
Con
- Might be prone to clogging. Hence, I suggest you soak it in water every after use for easier cleaning!
Mantis 7940 4-Cycle Gas Powered Cultivator, red & 4222 Aerator Attachment
Trust me. The Mantis 7940 4-Cycle Gas Powered Cultivator with Aerator Attachment gives rental aerator companies a run for their money.
Key Features
I know what you’re thinking… this isn’t a plug aerator but a slit aerator so why include it in the list? But wait, hear me out first!
The aerator attachment that comes with it works so well in slicing thousands of slits onto your lawn. Similar to plug aerators, slit aerators will reduce soil compaction and allow nutrients and water to reach into the grassroots. In case you’re wondering, the aerator attachment features 4 pieces of tempered steel blades thus you’re sure it’s durable and sturdy!
Not to mention, it’s comfortable to use due to the carrying handle. It’s also portable and lightweight. Only weighing 24 pounds, you’re sure you can bring it anywhere without breaking a sweat.
Moreover, it’s arthritis-friendly. This is all thanks to the finger-controlled throttle. As if that’s not enough, it also includes a kickstand for steady placement. Oh, and before I forget to mention, this features a Honda 4-cycle 25cc engine which won’t require you to use fuel mix.
Pros
- Improves aeration on your lawn
- Only weighs 24 pounds
- Comes with 4 tempered steel blades hence making it durable and sturdy
- Features a Honda 4-cycle 25cc engine so you’re sure it operates faster than other machines
- Arthritis-friendly (comes with a comfortable carrying handle and a finger-controlled throttle)
- Has a reliable kickstand
Con
- Only comes with a slit aerator attachment
Honda 06727-V25-000 FG110 Aerator Kit
Here comes the tough competitor of the Mantis Gas-Powered Cultivator with Aerator Attachment!
Not a lot of growers know this but the infamous Honda FG110 Rototiller can be used as an aerator, all thanks to this kit attachment.
Key Features
Similar to the Mantis Gas-powered aerator model, this features 4 pieces of tempered steel blades hence making it durable and sturdy!
Moreover, it has an ergonomic handle that is perfect for those with arthritic hands. It also features a reliable finger-controlled throttle for ease-of-use. Oh, and before I forget to mention, this features a Honda 4-cycle 25cc engine which won’t require you to use fuel mix.
The only caveat, though, is that some growers might find this a bit heavy. In case you’re wondering, it weighs 29 pounds, which is approximately 5 pounds heavier than the Mantis model.
Pros
- Improves aeration on your lawn
- Comes with 4 tempered steel blades hence making it durable and sturdy
- Features a Honda 4-cycle 25cc engine so you’re sure it operates faster than other machines
- Arthritis-friendly (comes with an ergonomic handle and a reliable finger-controlled throttle)
Cons
- The rototiller and attachment are sold separately
- Some might find this heavy at 29 pounds
Sun Joe AJ801E 13 in. 12 Amp Electric Scarifier + Lawn Dethatcher w/Collection Bag, Green
Yes, you read it right! I know that this isn’t your standard plug, spike, or slit aerator but a scarifier and dethatcher.
The truth is, scarifiers and dethatchers can be as effective as aerators especially if you’re going to use them on lawns that aren’t heavy on clay. In case you’re wondering, they both get rid of the nasty moss and thatch hence allowing nutrients and water to get to your soil. Some powerful scarifiers can even create small cuts on your soil!
If you’re interested in trying scarifiers and dethatchers, then the Sun Joe AJ801E is an item you shouldn’t miss out on.
Key Features
You’ll love that this is a 2-in-1 product that allows you to dethatch or scarify your lawn. Moreover, it features 5 tine depth options hence, allowing you to cut 10 mm above the soil or below the soil. It is also 13 inches wide and has a 12-Amp motor hence you’re sure that it’ll cover wide areas in no time.
You’ll love that it’s easy to use. Due to the wheels, it’s easy to rotate across the lawn. It’s also arthritis-friendly, thanks to the cushioned handlebar. You won’t also need to worry about kids playing with it because it has a reliable safety switch.
The only downside with this, though, is that it has a small grass bag.
Pros
- Improves aeration on your lawn through dethatching or scarifying
- 13-inches wide with 12-Amp motor for efficient operation
- Portable and easy-to-use (comes with wheels)
- Arthritis-friendly (comes with a cushioned handle)
- Kid-friendly (comes with a safety switch)
- Features five tine depth options
Cons
- Some might find the power cord short. Hence, make sure you prepare a good extension cord.
- Has a small grass bag
LawnMaster GV1314 Scarifier and Lawn Dethatcher 14-Inch 12.5AMP
Here comes another amazing electric aerator — the LawnMaster GV1314.
Key Features
Like the Sun Joe model, this allows you to scarify or dethatch your lawn. Moreover, it features 19 cutting positions. It is also 14 inches wide and has a 12.5-Amp motor hence you’re sure that it’ll cover wide areas in no time.
You’ll love that it’s easy to use. Due to the wheels, it’s easy to rotate across the lawn. It’s also arthritis-friendly. Moreover, it comes with a safety switch so you don’t have to worry about your kids playing with it.
But here’s my favorite: it comes with an efficient bag that can hold up to 10.5 gallons of debris or grass.
Pros
- Improves aeration on your lawn through dethatching or scarifying
- 14-inches wide with 12.5- Amp motor for efficient operation
- Portable and easy-to-use (comes with wheels)
- Has an efficient grass/debris bag
- Arthritis-friendly (comes with a cushioned handle)
- Kid-friendly (comes with a safety switch)
- Features 19 cutting options
Con
- Some might find the power cord short. Hence, make sure you prepare a good extension cord.
Greenworks 14-Inch 10 Amp Corded Dethatcher 27022
The list wouldn’t be complete without the Greenworks 14-inch Corded Dethatcher.
For one, it’s probably the best pocket-friendly electric dethatcher you’ll find. Aside from being affordable, it has a myriad of features you’ll love!
Key Features
I find that this is perfect for lawns that don’t have a lot of soil compaction. If you’re dealing with this type of lawn, then a good dethatcher can be as effective as an aerator.
The Greenworks Dethatcher is one of the best dethatchers you’ll find. For one, it’s 14 inches wide and has a 10-Amp motor hence you’re sure that it’ll cover wide areas in no time. You’ll also love that it’s effortless to use. Just roll it across your lawn!
But here’s my favorite: it has three tine depth options that allow you to pull up even the nastiest, oldest thatch!
Pros
- Improves aeration on your lawn through dethatching
- 14-inches wide with 10-Amp motor for efficient operation
- Portable and easy-to-use (comes with wheels)
- Arthritis-friendly (comes with a cushioned handle)
- Has three tine depth options
Cons
- Some might find the power cord short. Hence, make sure you prepare a good extension cord.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Plug Aerator for Lawns
Haven’t figured out what to get? No worries, I’ve answered some of your most sought-out questions about lawn aerators to help you out!
Q1. Which is better, spike or plug aerator?
Here’s a piece of friendly advice. If your lawn needs some serious aeration, then I suggest you invest in the best plug aerator like the ones I mentioned above.
You’ll never go wrong with plug aerators as they effectively remove sod plugs from your lawn, hence allowing water and nutrients to reach the grassroots.
But this is not to say that spike aerators aren’t any better. It’s just that based on my experience, spike aerators only create tiny holes, which don’t help so much in delivering all the nutrients to the grassroots. And to make matters worse, I find that certain types of spike aerators even increase soil compaction, particularly the shoe-type ones. Too bad they look cool and are pretty cheap, too!
Q2. Why should you aerate your lawn?
The answer’s simple. Aeration solves soil compaction which in turn helps your lawn to look vibrant and lush.
Now, I’m pretty sure you’re wondering whether your lawn is a candidate for this. Unless your kids and pets have never run in your yard, then you need to add aeration to your lawn care routine.
Q3. When and how to aerate your lawn?
To determine the best time to aerate your lawn, you first need to check whether you have cool-season grass or warm-season grass. If you have the former, then aerate your lawn in the early spring or fall. Meanwhile, for those with warm-season grass, I suggest you do it in the late spring.
Whether you decide to do it in the early or late spring, you need to follow these important steps to aerating your lawn.
- Firstly, make sure your lawn is moist enough. I suggest you water your lawn the day before you aerate it. Or better yet, do it immediately after a rain shower. Talk about a cool strategy to save up on water consumption! Just make sure that it’s moist and not muddy.
- Then, get your chosen type of plug aerator and start aerating! Remember that you don’t need to go over your whole lawn. Just make multiple passes over the compacted areas on your lawn. It’s pretty easy to do, right? Good luck!
Q4. What do you do after you aerate your lawn?
What others may not know is that you’ll still need the soil plugs you’ve excavated from your lawn.
Hence, the next thing you should do is to dry those soil plugs and break them apart by running over a mover. If you don’t have a mower, you may use the back of a rake and pound on them. In case you’re wondering, doing this allows your lawn to have a clean, uniform appearance.
Then, when everything’s done, go ahead and continue your lawn care routine such as mowing and watering.
Q5. Can I mow my lawn after aeration?
Of course, you can! This helps your lawn to look even more clean and uniform.
Conclusion
Finding the best plug aerator for lawns can be confusing but I hope this article has helped you. Good thing, the products that I reviewed here work great in aerating your lawn. Another great lawn care tool you should check out is hand tillers!
So, which do you think is the best plug aerator for lawns? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section.
Also, don’t forget to check other blogs from Rudd’s Home Farm to learn more tips and tricks on gardening.
