Homeowners interested in promoting the health and sustainability of their lawn should start with managing the layer of thatch in their grass. Thatch is a layer of roots, stems, and dried grass that accumulates at the soil surface of your lawn. This acts as a barrier that protects the roots of the grass from damage. While a certain amount of lawn thatch is normal and healthy, there are reasons why aerating or removing thatch may improve the quality of the grass.
The Pros
Having a healthy layer of thatch is a great way to trap moisture in the roots of your lawn, which is beneficial for those who live in climates that receive less rain per year than other areas. Thicker thatch also helps trap heat and prevent the roots of your grass from freezing or drying up quickly. Thatch is also great at preventing weeds and maintaining optimal lawn health.
The Cons
Thatch has a few drawbacks that could lead to a negative impact on the health of your lawn. The first is that a thick layer of thatch in the wrong climate can lead to soaking and holding too much water. Too much moisture leads to grass being over-watered and dying and can be a haven for disease and harmful insects.
Caring for and Maintaining Thatch
The most common causes of excessive thatch build-up are over fertilization and over watering. Both of these practices generate more grass growth, which in turn causes more grass clippings when you mow the lawn. The extra clippings accumulate faster than they can decompose and this is what leads to an excessive and damaging thatch layer. To prevent excessive thatch build-up, bag your clipping three out of every four times you mow the lawn and mulch your clippings on the fourth time you mow. If your lawn already has a heavy thatch layer, you can remove it by using an iron tooth garden rake or renting a power rake for really severe problems. Proper fertilizer and smart water control strategies will help to keep the grass healthy and thatch levels under control.
Would you like to know more? Contact Irrigation Outlet today and let our experts advise you on the best ways to care for your lawn and maintain a healthy level of thatch.
