thatch or aerate?

Question

Uses for each.............

Answer 1

Aerating will reduce the thatch layer in your lawn. Dethatching will also remove thatch, but doesn't correct the problem.

I would aerate, not only does it help remove thatch, but it also helps relieve compaction of the soil, helps improve drainage, creates pockets in the soil for roots to grow, also stimulates root growth!

Here's an article on aeration:
http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/turf/430-002/430-002.html

Aeration is recommended at least once a year on your lawn.

Answer 2

It depends on how thick the thatch layer is. Cut out a small piece of turf ( a little 3" triangle about 2" deep ) and see how thick the thatch is. Should be no more than 3/4 ". If it's more you can rent a dethatcher. Otherwise aerating is really best for your lawn. And it will eventually help break down the thatch, besides opening it up for water, nutrients,air,etc.etc.

Answer 3

Both. Aerating goes deeper than the thatch. I believe each has its purpose. I should not be answering this question because I have no specific knowledge, but as usual, I have an opinion!

Answer 4

I am going to be opposite and say aeration once a year is really all you need to do...your lawn will be healthy with just that along with a good fertilizer. Thatching is a lot of really unnecessary work.

Answer 5

I would say thatch and you do it, do it this fall. I like it because it take all the dead grasss out . It takes a couple days to recover but its worth it . I would Aeriate it in the spring when the ground it more damp.

Answer 6

aerate is only needed on hard compact lawns - it is not needed otherwise.

thatch is needed if the grass is old and thick, most lawns do not need this either.

Answer 7

thatch


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