Thatch Control

Addressing the causes of thatch will help to prevent and reduce its build-up. Key activities that are required include:
• scarification, supported by verticutting where possible,
• regular aeration,
• controlled irrigation as it is relatively easy to overwater for the needs of a grass plant,
• appropriate Nitrogen applications,
• the addition of micro-organisms to help aerate the soil and reduce thatch content,
• correct mowing practices which encourage desirable grasses rather than annual meadow grass,
• assess the soil and sward conditions to make sure that remedial activities, as well as routine activities, are actually correct. This assessment will help identify if any particular change is needed to maintenance activities.