Thatch is a layer of roots that accumulates where grass grows faster than it can decompose. It forms on the surface of the soil and can constrict and suffocate your grass under a buildup of decomposing organisms.

Thatch reduces the oxygen levels in your soil and slows down the work of the organisms that would usually break it down, so it forms a thick mat.

When we advise you to have our crews come out and thatch your lawn, what we’re really doing is “de-thatching” it.

This process is most common in the spring or fall, and it’s relatively simple with the right tools and the years of expertise we bring to lawn care.

First, we cut the grass very low. We then use a mechanical dethatcher (also known as a power rake) to remove the thatch, then collect it and haul it to the recycling center.

It’s important to note that if the thatch we remove is moderately thick, it’s best to also overseed following the dethatching. Many of our clients have us perform this as needed, but otherwise, most lawns need this every 3 to 5 years.

Aeration is another common remedy for a troubled lawn, but really is an important practice for lawns in Clark County in particular. Did you know that most lawns should actually be aerated annually?

Soil under lawns often becomes compacted, especially in areas with foot traffic. This compacted soil can really add to maintenance and pest issues with the yard in general, and often accumulates in the first four inches of soil.

Your grass can benefit from a good aeration essentially any time of the year in this area. Spring and fall are some of our busiest times for aeration, but there isn’t a bad time to make your lawn healthier.

For how important aeration is, it’s fairly simple, especially if you have access to a professional quality aerator like the one pictured below. Manual aerators exist but are much more time consuming than one of these machines, and don’t work as well. Our aerators allow the operator to walk behind and carefully manage the process, offering a more thorough aeration. Moist soil is the best soil when aerating a lawn.

Properly aerated and dethatched soil helps encourage root growth, so your grass will be healthier and denser than ever. It will be able to properly receive the water, oxygen, and nutrients it needs.

Give us a call and we can have one of our lawn care experts assess your lawn and give you recommendations on how to make your lawn the envy of the neighborhood.