Thatch is the layer of living and dead stems, roots, stolons, and rhizomes between the green blades of grass and the soil surface. A thin layer of thatch (less than 1/2 inch thick) can be beneficial to the lawn because it helps to limit weed germination, reduce water evaporation, and protect from frost damage. However, thick thatch layers can prevent water, air, and nutrients from penetrating the soil, causing reduced root growth and increased potential for drought stress. Thatch also favors fungal growth and can harbor insect pests.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dethatching (power raking) is the mechanical process of removing thatch.  At D & H Lawn Care, LLC, I use both walk-behind and dethatcher attachments on the commercial mowers to remove the thatch.  I recommend power raking your yard at least once a year in the spring especially if you mulch your grass when you mow or you fertilize often.  For the power raking service, I remove and haul the thatch away, usually picking it up with the mowers or sometimes manually raking it up.  I then include a short mow in trim with this service to pick up even more of the thatch and to give your yard a nice clean look.