Thatch is a dense mat of accumulated roots and stems between the soil and the visible green vegetation. Often several inches thick, thatch prevents the penetration of oxygen, fertilizers and water down into the soil where they are needed. Thatch also creates a breeding ground for fungus and insects that destroy lawns.

A Thatcher is a home landscaping tool can be used to remove the thatch buildup. This is a power rake with rotating combs that quickly break through the thatch, allowing oxygen, water and nutrients to get to the root system and allowing sunlight to penetrate to the soil. It is a violent, mechanical, hard raking that removes thatch and debris. The best time to power rake a lawn is late summer or early fall, because the combination of warm soil and cooler air will allow the turf to recover and spread. Power raking combined with fertilizer and additional seed will produce a healthier, more beautiful lawn!

Another possible solution is regular aeration of the turf. This works to prevent thatch buildup, but does little to remove a thick layer of thatch.

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