Core Aeration is the best yearly mechanical maintenance practice. Core Aeration is a machine process that removes soil and thatch plugs from your lawn. Some of the benefits of aeration are:

1. Improved air exchange between the soil and atmosphere 
2. Enhanced soil water uptake 
3.  Improved fertilizer uptake and use 
4.  Reduced water runoff and puddling 
5.  Improved turf grass rooting 
6.  Reduced soil compaction 
7.  Enhanced heat and drought stress tolerance 
8.  Improved resiliency and cushioning 
9.  Plugs naturally degrade back into soil profile. (Do not rake, or remove plugs)

Simply put, it is one of the best things you can do for your lawn. Aeration cost is charged per thousand square feet of lawn with a minimum charge of $79.50. The best time to aerate is in the spring or fall.  

Applying lime to the soil of residential lawns increases the soil pH. The pH of the soil, simply stated, is the measure of the soil's acidity or alkalinity. Acidic soil, which has a low soil pH, and can directly affect the vigor and quality of your lawn.

Aside from Western Pennsylvania clay soil being naturally acidic, there are several factors that can cause acidic soil conditions.:

• One factor is the break down of basic nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, in the soil. The leaching of these nutrients is more likely to take place in areas of heavy rainfall or on frequently irrigated turf.
• Another contributing factor in the development of acidic soil conditions is the use of Nitrogen fertilizers. Frequently fertilized lawns has a much greater potential of developing acidic soil conditions.
• Finally, decomposition of organic matter in the soil can be another factor leading to a reduction of a soil’s pH. 
• The lack of nutrients and the low soil pH reduces the turf’s overall ability to maintain its color, vigor and resistance, and it is less likely to stay healthy through the stressors of drought and heat. Applying lime to raise the soil's pH level will allow the soil to better absorb nutrients, threreby producing a more vigorous and productive lawn.  
  

At some point during the season most lawns will experience a turf grass disease. Typically, disease occurs during excessively moist weather, such as during the early spring months. In most cases, minor disease will grow out with a change in the weather. However, there are instances where fungicides must be applied.

Fungicides are not part of your regular treatment program but are necessary if the disease activity is severe. Fungicides are expensive products and we charge only to cover our costs. We do not prefer their use, but when necessary, we will take the extra step for the benefit of your lawn. Most lawn companies will not use fungicides due to the high costs and inconvenience.

Deer damage on susceptible plant material can be extensive. From January through March, deer turn to landscape plants as a primary food source. The best approach, of course, is to avoid planting highly-susceptible shrubs where deer population is a concern. To help prevent potential damage, Custom Turf offers a winter deer damage preventative that includes spray repellent and transparent mesh. Pricing is based on plant material type and quantity.