De-thatching a lawn helps it grow more resilient and thick. The goal of dethatching is to remove moss and matted grass clippings that accumulate over the years, suffocating and replacing the lawn itself.
This also reduces the spread of diseases, and ensures that the lawn remains green and thriving all year round.
Follow our tips and you will have a lawn that looks and feels brand new, guaranteed to boost your self-esteem!
How to choose your de-thatcher
This depends on the surface area that must be de-thatched:
Match the machine to the area being de-thatched
Rake: for tiny patches of grass
Manual: for surface areas not exceeding 120 sq yd (100 m²)
Electrical: for surface areas up to 600 sq yd (under 500 m²)
Gas-powered: for surface areas exceeding 600 sq yd (over 500 m²)
Some product models are fitted with a collection system which makes the work much easier.
Which de-thatcher for which lawn?
The tool you need is decided almost entirely by the size of the lawn you have to work over. The table below sets out the four options described here, from a simple rake to a gas-powered machine.
Which de-thatcher for which lawn?
De-thatcher
Lawn area it suits
Power source
Rake
Tiny patches of grass
None – worked by hand
Manual de-thatcher
Up to 120 sq yd (100 m²)
None – pushed by hand
Electrical de-thatcher
Up to 600 sq yd (under 500 m²)
Mains electricity
Gas-powered de-thatcher
Over 600 sq yd (over 500 m²)
Petrol engine
Whichever size you settle on, a model fitted with a collection system will save you a great deal of tidying up afterwards.
Best season to de-thatch
Twice a year: in the spring after having mowed a couple times and in the fall to remove matted grasses (dried cuttings) and strengthen the lawn before winter.
Before renovating your lawn in any substantial manner.
The right technique for a well de-thatched lawn
De-thatching a lawn must be performed on slightly damp ground, neither drenched nor too dry.
If necessary, water the lawn beforehand.
De-thatching requires following a cross-hatch pattern to avoid leaving any particular area out.
De-thatching depth must be kept shallow at between 1/16th and 1/8th in (2 to 4 mm), since going too deep would tear roots apart.
Any waste produced must be completely and carefully picked up, either with the de-thatcher’s collection hamper or by running the lawn mower across the lawn.
Written by Gaspard Lorthiois | Loves helping out, especially when it comes to growing things. Worked in herbal medicine, runs a farm, and dabbles in tech. Master's degree and engineer.
