Aerating Clover Plot in Aug.

[Bonez]

So my question is this, has anyone used an aerator in a clover plot to plant a fall mix? I have a frost seeded .5 acre clover plot and wanted to try to fill in some brassica species come Aug. for more diverse food come season. I don’t have access to other equipment to get to this spot. Just curious to see if anyone has ever done this or have any other recommendations. Thanks!

 

[Catscratch]

I've done core aeration in my yard. Pretty sure 100% of the holes caught seeds and grew weeds.

 

[Bonez]

I've done core aeration in my yard. Pretty sure 100% of the holes caught seeds and grew weeds.

Hahaha, I’ve had others tell me this too.

 

[RGrizzzz]

It depends how dense the clover will be. If you have a full stand of clover, I don't think the aeration holes will provide a big enough opening for other seeds to take off. The clover will likely canopy over the holes. If your clover is sparse, possibly spray any weeds and overseed ahead of rain.

 

[novchild]

over seed with forage radishes in august after a mowing

 

[bigboreblr]

aerator is a broad term. What kind are we talking about. Homeowner ones vs commercial ones.

Also any soil breaking equipent's results vary alot on the soil used. Clay vs sand vs loam. How badly compacted it is now, Rocks in it, How level the plot is.

Trying to use homeowner equipment in tough conditions might results in pieces breaking or bending.

Low buck implement for n ATV, bolting 3 tires together and putting a few 3ft wide 8 inch logs on it.

 

[davidhelmly]

I would overseed in August before mowing and with rain in the forecast.

 

[MikeP]

Yes, I have pulled an aerator behind an atv to plant for fall in a clover plot. Worked just fine

 

[splitbrow]

I've used a 48 inch atv spike aerator to roll rye in late May and it worked great and the clover grew right through the thatch layer.

 

[jsasker007]

I've used my disc(3 point) where I just lower it enough to leave lines behind me. Clover responds well to the "abuse" and bounces back great. Sometimes I over seed clover,chicory,brassicas after I do this and it's worked well. jmo