1
The right time of year
Scarify in early autumn or late spring, when the grass is growing strongly enough to recover quickly and the weather isn't too hot or cold. Avoid peak summer heat (the lawn can scorch) and frozen ground.
Lawn Care5 min read
Scarifying your lawn: when and how
Raking out the thatch opens up the lawn to light, air and food. Here's the straightforward guide to doing it right.
Created by jflgardens.co.uk
Over time, dead grass, moss and debris build up as a thick layer called thatch, starving the lawn of light, air and water. Scarifying – aggressively raking it out – is the single most restorative job you can do for a tired lawn.
2
Lower the mower first
Cut the lawn a little shorter than usual a couple of days before scarifying, and remove the clippings. A gentle, close cut makes the scarifier's tines far more effective at getting down to the thatch.
3
Rake in two directions
Whether by hand with a spring-tine rake or with a powered scarifier, work in parallel passes – then cross over in the second direction to lift the thatch thoroughly. Don't be alarmed at how much material comes up; that's exactly what's been choking the lawn.
4
Follow it with feed and seed
Scarifying is rough on the turf, so follow it up: spread a balanced feed to help recovery, and overseed any bare patches the scarifier reveals. Water in well and the lawn comes back thicker and healthier than before.
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