The summer months can take their toll on our lawns, leaving them looking yellow and dried-up by the end of August. But there is a simple way you can help your grass turn a healthy green once more
Scarification helps our lawns to grow by removing dead grass and other debris – including moss(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Summer can prove challenging for lawns, frequently leaving them yellowed or parched by late August. Fortunately, there’s a straightforward method to restore your grass to a vibrant green shade once again.
The horticultural specialists at The Grass People have revealed that now is the perfect moment to rake through your lawn before autumn sets in and temperatures drop. They explained: “Using a rake, scarify the damaged patches of grass to remove the dead grass or thatch, as you will want to create a good seedbed for when you ultimately reseed the area.”
It comes as gardeners were urged to delay one job in order to help protect at-risk birds.
Scarifying is a straightforward gardening method for eliminating accumulated organic debris on lawns, such as dead grass or moss, which typically builds up during the summer months. This layer of decomposing material, referred to as thatch, must be cleared away as it prevents water, sunlight and oxygen from reaching the soil to nourish the grass.
Failing to remove thatch will suffocate a lawn, preventing grass from regenerating. Even worse, the decaying vegetation can harbour various fungal infections and pests when autumn approaches, reports the Mirror.
The ideal period for scarifying is late summer, as this is when soil temperatures are beginning to cool whilst remaining warm – creating perfect conditions for grass to recover rapidly.
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Additionally, September typically brings increased rainfall, so scarifying now and reseeding your lawn will encourage new grass growth and help it become established before the weather turns too cold. So, how does one scarify a lawn using a rake?
Simply wait for a sunny day after a rainy one to begin the process. The slightly damp soil will make this task much easier.
Firstly, give your lawn a trim, cutting it shorter than you usually would. While it’s generally not recommended to cut too much off, it will aid in reaching any thatch.
Clear away any grass clippings and you’re ready to start. Just grab a rake and pull at the grass firmly in different directions in a zig-zag pattern.
Collect any debris that gets pulled from the lawn and place it in a bag or wheelbarrow. Don’t worry if the lawn looks untidy or patchy as you do this – it’s perfectly normal.
Make sure you dispose of the leftovers properly and avoid throwing it in compost as it could cause moss to grow in your garden. Give the lawn a good watering, sprinkle some grass seeds on it and it should start looking lush and green again in no time.
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