How to Control Lawn Thatch

Every lawn has thatch, a thin layer of dead organic matter that aids water absorption and protects the grass from extreme temperatures and excessive wear. Poor lawn maintenance habits can increase the thatch level, create dead patches and make the lawn feel spongy. Here's some tips on how to control lawn thatch.

Instructions

1. Eliminate lawn activities that compact the soil. Aerate the soil when the ground becomes compacted and water appears to be sitting on the surface.

2. Follow a regular mowing regimen. Mowing infrequently encourages growth of grass stems and other portions that decay slowly and encourage thatch development.

3. Apply the appropriate amount of fertilizer for your grass type and region. Adding an excessive amount of nitrogen to the lawn stimulates the grass to grow too quickly for the organisms in the soil that feed on the thatch, such as microbes, earthworms and insects, to break it down.

4. Check the soil pH each year. Acidic soil conditions decrease the rate at which the thatch decomposes. The recommended pH level is 6.0 and an inexpensive soil kit can be purchased at your local garden centers.

5. Water deeply. Maintain a regular watering routine, but do not over water the lawn or water too frequently.

6. Monitor the thatch depth. Check the depth of the thatch level by removing a plug from the lawn with a knife or trowel. A thatch depth over 1/2 inch can mean problems for your lawn.