How to scarify your lawn like a pro
The process of lawn scarifying is packed with benefits that you will reap the fruits of season after season. Here are our pro tips to help you get the best results from scarifying your lawn.
What is lawn scarification?
This is the process of pulling up thatch (dead grass and other organic matter), moss and debris from your lawn so that your lawn is optimally positioned for your grass to thrive. This process can vary from just pulling up the debris to combining this with a reseeding process to create a thick, luscious lawn. This process can be done by hand but it is labour intensive so this method is limited to smaller lawns – use a lawn scarifying machine for quick and effective results.
What are the benefits of scarification?
A key benefit is that you are going to reduce your thatch. Removing this dead grass and organic matter is important as it will allow for better airflow. Lawn scarifying also ensures nutrients can access the grass roots giving you a stronger and more resilient lawn.
Scarification helps reduce soil compaction which will make the lawn look thicker and greener. The scarifying process in theory should also help keep pests and diseases at bay - this is not guaranteed but it does help so there are whole host of benefits. Best of all, you can complete this process yourself using a lawn scarifier.
When should you scarify your lawn?
The best time of the year to scarify your lawn is either in the spring or the start of Autumn; aim for around April or September if you are in the UK (depending on the weather). If the season has been particularly dry, wait for the lawn soften up before tackling the lawn; either manually water of wait for some rain.
How to scarify your lawn
1) First thing is to cut the grass nice and short. NOTE – if you have recently experienced a heat wave, don’t cut until a few days later to avoid completely damaging the grass.
2) Choose your scarifier - There are different types of scarifiers available on the market from domestic to pro versions, even down to blade type. Use a fixed blade scarifier for a clean, even finish or opt for a scarifier with loose blades which will easily tackle bumpy, uneven lawns. Buy or hire a scarifier for the task ahead.
3) Scarify your lawn using your machinery in a similar manner to a lawn mower. Scarification is most effective when you scarify the lawn in multiple directions. Mow the lawn top to bottom covering the entire area and then mow again going side to side.
PRO TIP 1 - if you want to take this to the next level also go over the lawn diagonally
PRO TIP 2 - if you’ve got a large lawn and you haven’t scarified it for a long time then do not be overly ambitious. Consider separating the garden into areas and tackle it a bit at a time otherwise you will have a pile of moss bigger than the Eiffel Tower!
4) 4) Collect the debris – the easiest way to do this is by using a collecting lawnmower – this method will pack the debris in even better than some lawn scarifiers with bags.
5) 5) Add the finishing touches. If you gave the lawn a light scarifying the leave the lawn as is, it will grow back in better condition. If you’ve taken the lawn quite hard back you’ll need to reseed and possibly put some top dressing soil down. Depending on the size of the garden you will be able to apply top soil, rake it in and then sprinkle lawn seed. Do make sure you water the lawn if the weather will be dry
PRO TIP 3 - don’t skimp on lawn seed – the rule of thumb is for every 3 seeds down, one will die, the birds will take one and the other will grow so make sure you get plenty of seed down.
That's it! Now you are all set to scarify your lawn like a pro and enjoy thicker, greener grass later in the season. Call our showroom on 01249 652 573 to get more helpful advice concerning lawn scarifiers. Buy your next lawn scarifier online and watch our YouTube Channel for helpful lawn scarifier reviews and demos.