Lawn scarification explained
Lawn scarification is the process of removing thatch and moss buildup from the surface of your lawn. Thatch is a layer of dead and decaying organic matter that accumulates between the blades of grass and the soil surface. Moss is a low-growing, non-vascular plant that can thrive in shady, damp areas of your lawn.
Both thatch and moss can prevent water, air, and nutrients from reaching the roots of your grass. This can lead to a number of problems, including:
• Poor lawn growth
• Increased susceptibility to disease and pests
• Increased water runoff
• Brown patches
Scarification helps to alleviate these problems by removing thatch and moss, allowing water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots of your grass. This can help to improve the overall health and appearance of your lawn.
A machine is used which is fitted with blades that cut vertically into the lawn just touching the soil thereby leaving grooves in the soil. These blades then remove the thatch and leave behind the grass in the lawn, the thatch is then disposed of.
A mower is often used after the lawn is scarified to hoover up any remaining thatch that may not have been raked away leaving a tidy finish.
The frequency of scarifying your lawn depends on several factors, but generally it's recommended to scarify annually. Some factors that are taken into account are:
• Lawn Type: Lawns that produce alot of thatch, like some fescue grasses, may need scarifying annually. However varieties of grasses such as a lawn that is all rye grass will not produce any thatch.
• Thatch Level: If your lawn has a thick thatch layer (usually exceeding half an inch), it likely needs scarifying. An analysis can be carried out to see the thatch level.
• Lawn Health: Lawns with moss problems or poor drainage often benefit from scarifying to improve air circulation and water penetration.
• Time of year: Scarifying in spring (around April-May) is ideal as the grass is actively growing and recovers quickly. Late August-September is also a good option.
If you have any questions regarding lawn scarification or you would like to discuss your lawn then please don’t hesitate to contact me:
Tel: 07726469910 Email click here