What is Scarification?
Scarification, also called dethatching, is performed by gardeners to remove moss and thatch from grass, to promote healthier growth. It is performed either by a scarifier (pictured above), or manually using a rake. Removing this upper layer of matter promotes more nutrients reaching your grass; keeping your garden looking better, for longer.
When Should I Scarify?
Usually, the process is carried out twice a year; once in Spring, once in Autumn. If you’ve already missed the boat in Spring, don’t worry! Heavier scarification takes place in Autumn, and it’s important to plan ahead beforehand.
Make sure not to properly scarify in the summer or winter months, as this can ruin your lawn. Too wet or too dry, and scarification can have the opposite effect. It is largely agreed that the practice is most beneficial when your grass is growing strongly; doing so when the lawn has a chance to repair itself, and the weather forecast is mild for a few days after the process, is important.
It may sound a little complicated, but it’s worth doing, especially if you own a scarifier. If not, no fret. This can also be done manually, and actually, has benefits over a more professional method!
Manual Scarification:
If you don’t own a top of the range STIHL scarifier, don’t worry! Simply rake your lawn 3-4 times, ensuring all the moss and thatch is removed from your grass. Try to penetrate the soil more than you would for raking; this is the benefit of scarification; it removes debris hidden in your soil, not just on your grass.
This manual method won’t damage your grass as much as some commercial equipment can, so don’t worry as much about damaging your lawn. If it looks a little thin, you can always add some grass seed after.
Top Tips:
-Add some extra grass seed once you have finished to promote further growth – your lawn will look even fuller.
-Add weed killer a week before you plan to scarify your lawn, and it will stop moss invading bare patches later.
-The best time to mow is a week beforehand, as it will remove excess grass, making your life much easier.
-Be patient! Once you have finished the process, your lawn will likely look bare and worse for wear. This is a long term process, and will pay off the following year, growing back much better than you may expect!
Our Products:
At Cardiff Lawn and Garden, we have tools that can help you in this process. If you need any advice, visit our showroom and talk to one of our representatives!
