Experiences with grassland aerator with blades in Karcag

In 2023-24, we examined the effects of a lawn aerator with blades on plant structure, nitrogen, and total organic carbon content in a near-natural grass association in Karcag, characterized by saline soil. Following the aeration in October, by the following May, the nitrogen and total organic carbon content of the grass soil decreased. There was a decline in species diversity and the cover value of leguminous grass species. In contrast, the cover proportion of moderately oligotrophic, community-forming Festuca pseudovina increased. Additionally, the cover value of the dominant grass species, Alopecurus pratensis, also rose due to the two-time intervention with the blade roller. Summarizing our results, the application of lawn aeration in sensitive plant structures of near-natural grass associations is justified with great care.