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Thatching
Thatch is a tightly woven layer of roots and grass stems that develops beneath the actively growing turf at the soil surface. This layer accumulates over time and as it thickens, it decreases the absorption of water, nutrients and oxygen by the soil and subsequently, the grass roots.
Additionally, thatch can harbor disease and pests while reducing the effectiveness of pesticides by hampering their ability to reach the problem organisms.
Here on the Connecticut shoreline, if thatch removal is necessary it should be done yearly towards the very end of the summer, especially if a lot of material is being removed. If it is done properly, the warm soil and more regular rainfall pattern will help the grass recover quickly and the turf will return to its normal appearance. Manual raking can remove some of the material but specialized machinery will do a much more thorough job.
Other services offered by W.J.A. can assist in preventing thatch in the first place. Core aeration helps maintain proper moisture levels by breaking up compacted soil and allowing water to soak into the ground and roots. Soil testing and, possibly, an application of lime will keep the pH at the correct balance needed for grass to absorb nutrients efficiently and maintain helpful bacteria.
Contact Will at W.J.A. Property Maintenance for an evaluation and thatching estimate.
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