Without proper maintenance, your lawn can get out of control, leading to a mess of other problems. Learn how to keep your lawn looking its best thatch-free.
Battle of the Bulge
Thatch is made up of slowly decomposing roots and stems that accumulates between the grasses of your lawn and the soil’s surface. If you have Kentucky bluegrass, bermudagrass and zoysiagrass, be particularly vigilant as those species are prone to thatch.
The Thick of the Problem
Thatch isn’t as visible at first glance, but it should not be ignored. Excessive accumulation restricts water, fertilizers, pest controls and desired air flow from reaching the soil surface. Thatch also may harbor lawn disease and insects. To determine if thatch is a problem, look for:
- More than ½ inch of dark, spongy material between the soil and green grass
- Dry spots in the lawn
- Disease and insect problems
- Poor response to fertilizer
- Weakly-anchored, shallow roots
Prevent and Protect
Minimize thatch concerns through cultural practices such as scheduled fertilizer applications, proper mowing at the proper frequency and height and core aerification. Core aerification is an excellent way to address existing thatch.