When moss and weeds spoil the lawn, simply overseeding will not solve the problem. The magic word for an even, lush green lawn is scarifying. If the gardener is dealing with this special care measure for the first time, the question of the right time arises. This guide explains when and how to properly scarify.

Spring is the ideal time for scarifying

What is behind the term scarifying?

The term scarifying was coined in England, the motherland of immaculate lawns. Included in the designation are the English words "vertical" and "to cut". However, the process was developed in 1955 in the USA by Thomas Mascaro, whose inventions can still be admired at Penn State University.

With this care measure, the turf is scored with the help of a rotating blade roller. Scarifiers (€84.00) are available with an electric or petrol motor and as a hand-held device. The aim of scarifying is primarily to remove moss and lawn thatch in order to better supply the noble grasses with air and light. Furthermore, the lawn becomes more permeable, which effectively prevents harmful waterlogging and soil compaction.

When is the best time?

The ideal time window is open from April to May. In this phase, growth begins so that the lawn can then regenerate quickly. This aspect is of the utmost relevance for choosing the right date, because scarifying is an extreme strain on every lawn. Anyone who uses the scarifier in the warm, dry summer time struggles for many weeks with a plucked green area that only hesitantly turns into a green carpet closes. How to determine the optimal time:

  • The ground temperature is continuously above 10 degrees Celsius
  • Delayed ground frosts are no longer to be expected
  • It didn't rain at the lecture
  • The lawn is not completely dry

Another time window opens in autumn to free a moss-covered lawn from thatch. Between the beginning of September and mid-October, there is nothing wrong with scarifying the green space for the first time or a second time. The work should be completed by the end of October at the latest, otherwise there will not be enough time for regeneration.

Should the lawn be prepared?

With careful preparation in advance, you can ensure that your lawn recovers quickly after scarifying. The following procedure has proven to be excellent in professional care:

  • Mow the lawn twice after the winter break
  • Fertilize the lawn 10 to 14 days before scarifying
  • Irrigate the turf repeatedly to ensure the fertilizer is fully absorbed

The previous nutrient supply stimulates the growth of the lawn grasses so that they are well prepared for the subsequent procedure.

Scarify correctly - how does it work?

Scarifiers are so rarely used in the home garden that the purchase does not pay for itself. Garden centers and hardware stores rent out the machines at a reasonable daily price and often provide a trailer for transport. The following instructions summarize the correct procedure for scarifying work:

  • Mow the lawn first at the lowest level
  • Set the scarifier to a cutting depth of 2 to a maximum of 5 mm
  • Pace the green area quickly with the running device
  • Scarify first lengthwise, then crosswise

After the first lane, please check whether you have set the scarifier correctly. Moss and weeds should be combed out without ripping healthy lawn grasses out of the ground. In the end, there is a thick layer of clippings on the lawn. Use a rake to thoroughly sweep away the combed out lawn thatch. Remove the last residue with the lawnmower.

Overseeding - fine-tuning for the scarified lawn

Properly thatched lawn gives off a disheveled appearance. Areas heavily infested with moss and weeds can be completely bare. This is no reason for discontent, but the best opportunity for reseeding. You can either use the remaining lawn seeds from the original sowing or you can use seed mixtures for lawn repairs. How to do it right:

  • The best time is immediately after scarifying
  • Pour lawn seed into a spreader and mix by hand
  • Sow the seed without overlapping
  • Roll the surface for good ground contact

Alternatively, you can spread lawn seed by hand. Please eject the seed by first walking the lawn lengthwise and then crosswise. After the lawn roller has grounded the seeds, sprinkle the fresh seedbed thoroughly.

For the next 2 to 3 weeks, water the overseeded lawn daily unless it rains. When the seedlings and remaining lawn grass have reached a growth height of 8 to 10 cm, they are mowed for the first time.

tips

Scarifying should not be confused with aerating. While the lawn is only scratched a few millimeters when scarifying, the aerator works the soil up to a depth of 10 cm. The aim of this measure is primarily to deeply loosen and aerate compacted soil.

Category:

Garden design