Photo: plantscience.psu.edu
Thatch Removal
Thatch is an intermingled layer of dead and living shoots, stems, and roots at the soil’s surface. Thatch is a nuisance because it builds up faster than it breaks down. If your lawn contains a layer of thatch thicker than one inch it can cause the following issues:
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Dry out the turf's root system. Thatch heats up and dries out quickly which dries out the turf's root system.
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Reduce oxygen to turf roots. During rainy periods, thatch holds water reducing oxygen to turf roots.
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Create pest problems. Excess thatch harbors disease-causing organisms and insects which can lead to pest problems