Contrary to the old wives tale, mulching actually reduces thatch, simply cutting and leaving long grass on a lawn may provide the conditions for thatch build-up however correct mulching reduces thatch by creating a much more healthy soil and root zone.

There are many causes of thatch build up such as:

Grass type

Some grass varieties are more prone to thatch than others.  Good quality lawn grass is important.

Soil compaction

Soil that is heavily compacted can result in thatch build-up.

Over watering

Do not over water as this also contributes towards the thatch environment.

Over fertilisation

This can contribute towards thatch build-up in as much as the grass will be growing abnormally vigorously and need aggressive cutting.  These ‘leggy’ grass plants are not actually robust and healthy and may cause thatch build-up.

What is “thatch”

Thatch is a spongy layer of stems, root stolons and partially decomposed organic matter that has accumulated on the surface of the soil.  If left untreated thatch forms a layer preventing healthy grass growth with the lawn dependent on artificial additives to survive.

Thatch is however extremely easy to remove with the aid of a garden machine called a scarifier.