I have severely compacted lawn due to foot traffic, children, etc. to the point where drainage and new growth is a problem. Here in New England the snow has melted well before April (which is a rarity) and I’d like to core aerate if nothing more than to reduce compaction.

I know fall is best but I am not looking to overseed. I also know aerating in the spring can spread broadleaf weeds once growing starts (around Memorial Day). Could I aerate before growing season starts without harming future growth? Temps have only been in the 40s and 50s but the ground is not frozen.

Thanks!