Dethatching (if required)

Thatch is a layer of grass stems, roots, clippings, and debris that settle on the ground and either slowly decompose and/or accumulate over time. Thatch accumulates on the surface of your soil just below the grass line and is usually out of sight.

The causes are numerous: poorly aerated soil, excess nitrogen, or high and infrequent mowing. Thatch buildup is commonly found in lawns where grass has grown tall, mulch is frequently left, and lawns that have never been aerated. A lawn with more than 1.25 cm (1/2") of thatch should be dethatched.

Dethatching increases the movement of air, water, and nutrients into the soil, and stimulates new growth.

As soon as soil firms in the early spring, gently rake (either using a lawn rake or thatching rake) to remove dead grass and winter debris.

A power dethatcher (verti-cutter) may be used if the lawn has more than 2.5 cm (1") of thatch and the lawn is heavily used.