Mulching reduces “thatch”
Contrary to the old wives tale, mulching actually reduces thatch, simply cutting and leaving long grass on a lawn may provide the conditions for thatch build-up however correct mulching reduces thatch by creating a much more healthy soil and root zone.
There are many causes of thatch build up such as:
-
Grass type
Some grass varieties are more prone to thatch than others. Good quality lawn grass is important.
-
Soil compaction
Soil that is heavily compacted can result in thatch build-up.
-
Over watering
Do not over water as this also contributes towards the thatch environment.
-
Over fertilisation
This can contribute towards thatch build-up in as much as the grass will be growing abnormally vigorously and need aggressive cutting. These ‘leggy’ grass plants are not actually robust and healthy and may cause thatch build-up.
What is “thatch”
Thatch is a spongy layer of stems, root stolons and partially decomposed organic matter that has accumulated on the surface of the soil. If left untreated thatch forms a layer preventing healthy grass growth with the lawn dependent on artificial additives to survive.
Thatch is however extremely easy to remove with the aid of a garden machine called a scarifier.
