How to Thatch Zoysia Grass

Thatch is the organic material that naturally builds up between zoysia grass blades and the soil. Zoysia grass produces more thatch than other grass types, according to Kansas State University. Gardeners may find themselves having to dethatch their zoysia lawns every year. When zoysia lawns accumulate a layer of thatch over 1/2 an inch, they can experience thinning areas, moss growth, fungal diseases and pest infestations. Removing excess thatch can help zoysia spread over the lawn.

Things You'll Need

Shovel
Measuring stick
Lawn mower
Rake

Power dethatcher
Garbage bag
Pre-emergent herbicide

Instructions

- 1
  Cut out a 2-inch deep wedge from your zoysia grass to measure the thatch layer. Thatch layers that are 1/2 an inch thick should be dethatched. If the thatch is between 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick, the lawn should be dethached twice that year. Thatch layers over 1 1/2 inches thick means the lawn should be removed and replanted.
- 2
  Cut the lawn down to 3/4 inches in height. Rake up all the grass clippings.
- 3
  Set your power dethatcher's blades to a medium level. Refrain from taking off a thick thatch layer over 1 1/2 inches at one time or you will weaken the zoysia grass blades. Push the power dethatcher back and forth over the lawn.
- 4
  Rake up the thatch debris. Bag up the thatch and burn or throw away.
- 5
  Spray a pre-emergent herbicide evenly over the lawn to prevent weeds from germinating in any thinning areas. Water the lawn after applying the pre-emergent herbicide.

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