Avoid Thatch Build-Up

    
    Mulching, proper watering, raking, and aerating your lawn are key to reducing thatch build-up. While a normal layer of thatch will protect the crown of the grass and prevent soil compaction, a heavy thatch buildup will prevent fertilizers and rain from penetrating the thatch layer.
- For optimal root growth and proper thatch (as seen in picture) watering less frequently and heavily encourages deep root growth.
- Mulching your lawn and leaving the grass clippings on top do not contribute to thatch. Grass clippings decompose rapidly releasing nitrogen and nutrients to the soil and will also help with thick root growth.
- Raking your lawn in the spring and fall may be labour intensive but will help remove some thatch build-up.
- To avoid raking, core aerating is the best way to prevent thatch. Core aerating can be done in the spring and fall. It takes plugs out of the ground and leaves them on top, allowing for nutrients and water to absorb into the soil.

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