De-thatching

Definition

A collection of blades of grass cut many times, bits of leaves and branches, roots and rhizomes that are decaying on the lawn are called a Thatch. This cut grass is left on the lawn as it provides nutrients to the soil, reduces water evaporation and shields from ice damage. But if the decomposition is very slow the thatch becomes a large layer. This layer is a hindrance to the new grass about to shoot and to the motion of water, oxygen and nutrients into the soil. It also promotes plant disease and drought pressure. Thatch helps growth of fungus and insects. De-thatching simply means removal of this layer. Mostly this process is not a regular work but only when the layer becomes excessive. It is usually done in early fall. If done in spring the nascent grass may get damaged. It should not be done in late spring, as the lawn must recover to face the summer heat.

Procedure

De-thatching can be done by hand for small areas. For large ones, mechanical dethatchers can be used. These can be taken on rent for one day or service of lawn companies can be taken. The best dethatcher is called a Vertical Mower also known as a Verticutter. It has a collection of blades, which move into the thatch and pull it. It is advised to set the blades high than low till one get used to the machine. The depth upto, which, the blades can dig into the thatch, is adjustable. After the total lawn is dethatched run a second round perpendicular to the first round. Another instrument is called a Power Rake. Spring tines are connected to the blades. It costs about $30. A thatching rake has thick blades, which move in the layer and loosen it. Collect the thatch in trash bags. Add it to a manure pile. Dethatching is usually done if the thatch becomes more than half an inch thick. Perennial ryegrass and tall fescue do not produce much thatch. On the contrary Bermudagrass, Kentucky bluegrass and bentgrass give rise to thick layers.

Avoiding De-Thatching

Thatches can be avoided by apt fertilization methods, thereby avoiding nitrogen content more than essential for the soil. Shallow and repetitive irrigation is not advisable. Proper mowing should be done.

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