SCARIFICATION

Scarification is a crucial component of any lawn maintenance program. Without it, your lawn becomes highly vulnerable to diseases caused by natural bacteria present in the soil.

If dead moss and grass clippings are left on your lawn, they can accumulate and form thatch, which is a layer of dead organic matter that sits on the soil surface. Thatch obstructs moisture from reaching the grass roots, potentially weakening or even killing the grass in your garden. During wetter seasons, such as autumn and winter, thatch can create damp, humid conditions that foster moss growth and promote grass diseases and fungi. If your lawn feels thick and spongy, it may be time to scarify to remove the thatch layer.

Scarification involves extracting dead moss and thatch from your lawn. While this was traditionally done with a wire rake, modern technology allows us to use powered machines that perform the task more efficiently and thoroughly. Initially, scarifying your lawn may make it look worse, but once it recovers, the grass will be much healthier.

It’s important to time lawn scarification strategically to ensure it is followed by favorable weather conditions that aid in recovery. Moss control should be performed 2-3 weeks prior, as scarification can inadvertently spread moss spores across the lawn, exacerbating the problem.

Regular scarification is recommended—typically twice a year for lawns with issues and every two years for others. We will provide guidance on the best approach for your specific lawn needs.