Your grass may not be alone. Underneath, there may be thatch lurking. But that may not be a bad thing.
- Thatch is the build up of old grass roots and rhizomes.
- Warm climate grasses such as zoysia, Bermuda and buffalo grasses can produce thatch at a reasonably fast rate and may need to be dethatched more often. Cool season grass, like our old friend, bluegrass, produce thatch more slowly. So let's not freak out about thatch.
- Thatch that's not too think can be helpful. It can keep soil cool, slow water loss, plus insulates the grass from temperature fluctuations,
- Too much thatch can keep light and water from getting to the roots of your grass.
- You can use a power rake to dethatch. Don't buy one. Rent it. You shouldn't have to dethatch on a regular basis.
- Try soil core aeration to help control the thatch.
From controlling critters to whacking weeds to finding just the right plant for your plot, GLT's Grow is your source for sage gardening advice and down-to-earth tips. Host Patrick Murphy and co-host Laura Kennedy are ready to take on all your gardening questions, so submit yours today.
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