Scarifying a lawn, which is done with a tool, involves removing moss from the lawn surface, weeds, and slightly opening up the soil, to improve lawn growth and aerate the lawn. Leaving dead material and debris on the lawn can form a thatch layer, that will prevent water from reaching the roots and eventually suffocate the lawn. So,how to get rid of moss? Some vendors offer iron sulfate-based moss treatments. This is a synthetic product that should absolutely be avoided. At first glance, it may seem to be very effective, but in a way, it will only make your lawn worse. This product acidifies the soil, leaving stains on the porous elements and making it impossible for mosses to compost.
How does lawn scarification work?
To scarify a lawn, it is necessary to use special equipment that cuts vertically through the thatch layer and weeds, making shallow cuts in the soil surface. It is also possible to achieve a similar effect with a simple rake, but the task is difficult. That’s why it’s recommended to use scarification equipment with rotating blades that dig into the soil a few millimeters, to remove weeds, thatch and moss. Scarification may damage your lawn at first, but it is beneficial in the long run for its revitalization, since it will facilitate the penetration of water, air and trace elements into the roots.
The best time of year to scarify a lawn
April and May are the best months to scarify your lawn, as it is in full growth. However, scarification can be done in March, April and May, as well as September, weather permitting. Ideally, a lawn should be scarified twice a year, with a temperature of 10°C or higher. It is best to postpone scarification when the soil is cold, and even when it is too hot to prevent the lawn from drying out. After scarification, your lawn may look a little worse at first, but you’ll see your efforts rewarded with a more beautiful or lush lawn.
Some prevention tips
Moss grows easily on poorly maintained or overly moist soil. It will form dense clumps on your lawn and turn yellow in the summer. To avoid this problem, it is important to maintain your lawn carefully and regularly to prevent its appearance: add fertilizer to enrich the soil, treat before seeding the lawn to eliminate moss, drain the soil, aerate the soil. Remember, prevention is the key to a healthy lawn in the long run.
