Scarifying The Lawn

Scarification is a job carried out by many gardeners usually with a multi-tine rake. The rake is pulled with a downward force over the whole lawn. This task can sometimes look a little unsightly after completion and can look to be severe on the grass but the benefits always outweigh the apparent drawbacks.

What is thatch?

Thatch is the build up of old grass clippings, moss and other organic matter just above the root zone at soil level. A little thatch can be good for the lawn but more often it is allowed to build up to a level that is detrimental to the lawn.

When to scarify?

This job is best done in the autumn but light scarification can be carried out in the spring. Remember that if you have a large thatch problem and you need to heavily scarify the always make sure you never let the lawn dry out after this work.

How to scarify

By Hand

Using a multi-toothed (springbok) rake pull repeatedly towards you with firm downward pressure. The whole of the lawn will need this treatment focusing more heavily where visual signs of heavy thatch are present. Hand pull rolling scarifiers are available and can save some hard work and time.

By Machine.

Many electric and petrol scarifiers are available now and these are really a must for the larger lawn. The time and hard work saved by these machines either warrants hiring or investing in one for future use.