Thatch (lawn)
Layer of organic matter that accumulates on a lawn around the base of grasses / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In lawn care, thatch is a layer of organic matter that accumulates on a lawn around the base of the grass plants. Thatch is a combination of living and dead plant matter including crowns, stolons, rhizomes, and roots.
This article relies largely or entirely on a single source. (October 2021) |
Grass clippings do not generally contribute to thatch buildup as they can be easily broken down by soil microorganisms. Thatch is composed of about 25% lignin, a complex organic polymer that is highly resistant to decomposition. Thatch buildup can be caused by several factors:
- Certain grass species are especially prone to thatch production
- Acidic soils may not be able to support sufficient populations of decomposing microorganisms
- Certain fungicides can stimulate excessive root and rhizome growth
- Application of insecticides may reduce earthworm activity, leading to decreased bioturbation
- Over-application of nitrogen fertilizers can stimulate excess growth as well as contribute to soil acidity
A small amount of thatch may provide a beneficial insulating effect against fluctuations in temperature and moisture. However, excessive thatch can cause root problems and lawn mower difficulties. A dethatcher may be used to remove thatch from a lawn.