Aeration helps remove excess thatch, which is a buildup of dead grass that can harbor insects and disease. Aeration also helps roots to grow more deeply and allows water and nutrients a direct path to the root zone.

When you water by hand you usually do it a random and not on a regular schedule. So a timed sprinkler system will generally use less water and allow you to customize your watering program based on factors like sun exposure. Plus, it lets you live your life freely, without worrying about getting home from vacation early to water the lawn.

Most shrubs and trees should be planted in either Spring or Fall. With perennial flowering plants, Spring is your best option but late summer and early fall are also fine.