What Is Scarifying a Lawn?

Process

• Grass clippings from mowing will eventually rot and return to the soil. Decomposition takes time but repeated mowing will simply add more material and can soon build into a dense thatch. Scarifying a lawn involves raking away moss, debris and thatch build up in order to allow in beneficial rain and sunlight. Working in different directions, the tines of a hand tool or the blades of a powered machine remove debris and undesired material. This practice leads to soil improvement and beneficial conditions for the grass.

Equipment

• Two main kinds of tools are used in the scarifying process, a manual tool or a powered machine. A metal or plastic hand rake with large tines is suitable for small plots of grass. For much larger areas a powered tool makes the task less arduous. An electric or gas-driven scarifying machine, similar to a lawn mower, uses a series of blades to remove thatch and break up soil surfaces. While a powered machine is faster on larger areas, there is a higher financial outlay.

Calendar

• Scarifying too early can allow frost and excessive water to penetrate into the soil, which may damage the grass's roots especially if a powered machine's blades are set too deep. Removing the protection thatch during the hot summer months can result in parched soil due to sun exposure. The autumn months of August and September with nourishing rain but before harsh frosts set in is a more favorable time.

Considerations

• Maintaining vibrant grass requires a number of steps including the scarifying process. Sufficient mowing without scalping the turf ensures neatness without damage. Correct fertilization aids growth while proper aeration aids root strength. A measured degree of irrigation and regular weed control all add to overall well-being of any lawn.