Thatch is basically dead grass, roots and other matter which builds up in the grass over time. It’s actually quite common and affects most lawns in residential settings. Thatch collects above the soil at surface level and becomes intertwined in grass roots. When this cycle of decomposition is left unattended to, dead matter can quickly build up causing healthy grass blades to become stressed and weakened.

In a nutshell, thatch can actually choke a lawn to death. As it thickens, thatch robs the soil of air and hinders water absorption. One way to tackle thatch on lawns is to invest in water reticulation systems. This system is ideal for most landscapes and designed to ensure water is delivered in the most efficient and effective way possible. To find out more about cost-effective water systems, reticperth provide reticulation controllers Perth to help.

Let’s return to the problems created by thatch. It can also be a haven for insects and an excellent breeding ground for mosquitoes which carry diseases.

Getting to grips with thatch

OK, it’s time to get down to it. Here are 4 easy ways to protect lawns from thatch:-

1. Lawn dethatching – lawn dethatching will go a long way in maintaining a healthy green, lawn. It will allow new grass shoots to grow thick and lush. Dethatchers are powered rakes. They grapple at the soil surface lifting dead matter to the top of the lawn so it can be removed. The thatch can then be collected and placed into a compost bin.

2. Soil aeration – when thatch levels are 1/2 inch thick or higher, the lawn’s root system is being compromised. Apply soil aeration to loosen the soil, to allow air, water and nutrients to penetrate the root system. A reticulation installation will also help combat thatch.

3. Mowing the lawn – one of the quickest and easiest ways to deal with thatch is to keep on top of mowing the lawn. If the grass is 3 inches or taller, it’s time to mow it. This will allow air, sunlight as well as water to get to grassroots making them healthy and strong. Thatch, what thatch?

4. Feed the lawn – once a lawn has been dethatched, had soil aeration and been mowed, feed it as soon as possible. There are many top quality lawn fertilisers out there for different times of the year. It’s important to feed a lawn with a good fertiliser throughout the year. Feeding a lawn regularly will make thatch a thing of the past.

So there we have it, four easy ways to protect any size lawn from the dreaded thatch.

Invest in garden water systems

Today more than ever before, natural rainfall is generally sporadic and unpredictable, a worry for gardeners everywhere. Tackle this by investing in water reticulation systems. Reputable companies online can provide gardeners with the right products. Reliable specialists can also carry out retic repairs when needed to make a garden beautiful.