An excess build-up of thatch on a lawn doesn’t just look unsightly, it can also damage the grass underneath and suffocate perfectly healthy turf. Lawn scarification is a good solution for this. You can perform this function as part of your regular turf maintenance and keep your lawn in the best possible shape throughout the year. Understandably, some people are scared when they hear the term scarification and think it’s going to damage their lawn. There’s nothing to be worried about though. Do this and you improve the quality of your lawn and make it green and lush.
What is lawn scarification and why does it need to be done?
Lawn scarifying removes excess thatch from the surface of a lawn by means of a specialist device. You can do this manually using a grass rake which can be hard work, or use a mechanical scarifier which you push in front of you. For larger gardens, a ride-on scarifier is a good suggestion which covers large areas in short spaces of time. This type of work is essential for removing excess thatch which can often ruin a perfectly good lawn by starving it of the nutrients it needs. During the scarification process, unwanted thatch is removed from the surface of turf to improve the function of the grass roots.
What happens during lawn scarification?
Mechanical scarifiers have adjustable steel blades that rotate as they move across the lawn. The blades are designed to cut away at thatch and remove it from the grass leaving the roots underneath unharmed. Specialist scarifiers can also aerate the soil underneath to improve the quality of the turf. As the thatch is removed, it exposes the grass to the natural light, water and environmental conditions it needs to thrive, and after a few weeks, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the quality of your lawn.
When should I scarify my lawn?
You’ll know when you need to scarify a lawn as the turf will feel spongy and you’ll see visible signs of thatch on the lawn. The ideal time to do this type of work is at the end of August until October when the soil is still warm enough to recover. Light scarification can take place in the spring but avoid completing this over the winter as you will cause more damage than good. You can complete further treatments at the same time as scarifying to help the grass to recover, including aerating the soil and over-seeding if there are sparse patches of turf.
Scarifying is a great way to maintain a healthy lawn. If you need turf supplies at any time, contact us here at Greendale using our online form or call us for advice on 07791 525480 or 07583 502427.