Thatching. What is it?

For those who are brown thumbs and tend to get lost in Bunnings, the term ‘thatching’ might be an unfamiliar one. Though you have most likely seen it before without recognising it and could even be experiencing it in your lawn right now.

So what is thatching?

Basically it is when your lawn produces more organic matter than can be decomposed, creating an overgrowth of roots and an excess of dead lawn. Too much water and not enough aeration is a key factor in thatch development.
Another indicator of thatch is a spongy lawn, due to the layer of dead roots and leaves.
Different types of turf are more susceptible to thatching, so speak with a professional gardener if you are unsure of what turf you have.

What is dethatching?

Dethatching is when you or a professional removes the dead layer of lawn so that water, sun, air and nutrients can reach all the way through to the soil, allowing rainwater to drain more effectively and microorganisms to break down dead lawn faster.

Is dethatching a DIY job?

Yes you can dethatch your lawn yourself.
First lower the height of your lawn in the warmer months only.  Then use a dethatching rake to scrape out the thatch and rotting layer.
Lastly, sow seed into the dead patches of your lawn and then water.

Lastly, a big benefit of regular mowing is that it encourages lateral growth, which means that your lawn will thicken and be must softer to walk or play on.

The size of your lawn will obviously dictate how long the dethatching process will take. If you do not enjoy manual labour or have a medium to large amount of dethatching to do, call in a professional dethatcher.

Pulse Lawn Mowing & Gardening are equipped to professionally dethatch your lawn, aerate it and repair the patches of damaged turf. Pulse Lawn Mowing & Gardening can identify and treat all sorts of lawn problems and ensure it is at peak health all year round. Give Pulse Lawn Mowing & Gardening a call on 0800 785 434 and get dethatching!