| THATCH F.A.Q. From Oasis earthWorks |
Managing thatch buildup Thatch in lawns is often misunderstood; both it's cause and how to control it. Some lawns have serious thatch problems while others do not. Thatch is a layer of living and dead organic matter that occurs between the green matter and the soil surface. Excessive thatch (over 1/2" thick) creates an environment favorable for pests and disease and an unfavorable growing environment for grass roots plus can interfere with some lawn care practices. Thatch is a build-up of dead roots, lawn debris and dead turfgrass crowns. It accumulates when these plant parts build up faster than they breakdown. Thatch problems are due to a combination of biological, cultural, and environmental factors. Cultural practices can have a big impact on thatch. For example, heavy nitrogen fertilizer applications or over-watering frequently contribute to thatch, because they cause the lawn to grow excessively fast. Avoid over-fertilizing and over-watering. Despite popular belief, short clippings dropped on the lawn after mowing are not the cause of thatch buildup. Clippings are very high in water content and break down rapidly when returned to lawns after mowing, assuming lawns are mowed on a regular basis. REMEMBER: As with any plant pruning, DO NOT remove more than one-third of the grass leaf blade. As thatch levels accumulate to greater than 1/2", lawn problems may begin, and the thatch needs to be controlled. Thatch may be removed by hand or with a power rake or de-thatcher. De-Thatching and Core aeration, followed by topdressing (applying additional soil) are 2 methods that will generally correct the reasons thatch is accumulating. Core aerifying machines will pull up small soil cores to the surface that can be left there or removed (Many gardening experts such as Ed Hume and Ciscoe Morris recommend leaving the plugs on your lawn to break down and supply nutrients. The holes created help solve problems such as compaction or poor drainage. Topdressing is simply adding a thin layer(1/8" — 1/4") of compatible soil over the thatch, which adds micro- organisms to help in the breakdown process. Aerifying equipment can be rented or your local professional lawn care provider can usually provide this service. Aerifying is an excellent lawn practice with many benefits, as it helps solve soil problems that in turn leads to better root systems and healthier lawns. Aerify in spring or fall, making sure adequate moisture exists in the soil. Make two trips over the lawn, the second perpendicular to the first. An average of 15 to 20 aeration holes per square foot is suggested. Cores should remain on the surface and allowed to air dry. These cores act as topdressing that helps degrade thatch. Additional topdressing material could be added after core aerifying if desired. DIY: If you think you want to do-it-yourself, consider that this piece of equipment weighs about 200 pounds, requires extensive linebacker-strength manhandling to operate and usually the minimum rental time is 4 hours and costs probably more than having a professional do it for you. Call Oasis EarthWorks for a free estimate today at 360- 941-1193 Oasis EarthWorks Professional GroundsKeeping: Serving Skagit Valley, Washington call 360-941-1193 or 610-SNOW |
