Aeracja

Aeracja, or aeration, is the process of introducing air into a material or system. In Polish usage the term is used in soil science, horticulture, and environmental engineering to describe deliberate air incorporation to improve performance.

In soils, aeracja aims to relieve compaction and increase pore space, promoting gas exchange, water movement, and root development. It is particularly important for heavy, clay-rich soils and for maintained turf where traffic compacts the surface.

Techniques include mechanical aeration with spike or hollow-tine aerators that create small holes, and core aeration that removes plugs. Core aeration is generally more effective at reducing compaction, while spike aeration is quicker but less disruptive to soil structure. After core aeration, plugs may be left to decompose or be removed.

Timing and frequency depend on soil type and land use. For lawns and turf, aeration is typically performed in the growing season, often once a year, sometimes twice a year on heavily used areas. It should be done when the soil is moist but not waterlogged, and avoided during extreme heat or cold or immediately after seeding.

Beyond soils, aeracja also denotes air introduction into liquids, notably in water treatment, ponds, and aquaculture, to increase dissolved oxygen and support biological processes.