Thin, patchy spots in your lawn are never a good sign, but they can pop up, even when you're taking proper care of your lawn. In some cases, dry or spongy patches indicate that your lawn needs ...

The best time to aerate is when your grass is actively growing—spring or fall in cool areas, and late spring in warm ones.

Compacted soil causes weak lawns—fix it with aeration. Aerate cool-season grass in early fall while it’s still growing. Water before and after, and pair aeration with overseeding and fertilizing.