The reasons why we Graden! Thatch is that tightly intermingled layer of dead and living parts (roots, shoots, stems, stolon’s, leaf tissue, etc) that develops between the green vegetation and soil surface” Leaf clippings contribute very little to thatch build-up. Roots, rhizomes and stolons are major contributors to thatch as they have a high lignin concentration and resist decomposition. How much is too much?
A thatch layer of up to ½”/13mm can be beneficial as it can improve wear tolerance and insulates the soil from extremes in air temperature. When thatch levels accumulate beyond this the disadvantages far outweigh the advantages. Some of the many problems that can occur. These problems will be exaggerated when excessive thatch layers are present.
Thatch production is inevitable and is, without doubt, one of the most common problems encountered on golf courses and sports surfaces throughout the world. There are many different factors which contribute to excessive thatch accumulation. Some of these factors include grass species, climate, acidic conditions, poor aeration, high nitrogen nutritional levels and over wetting. Problems caused by excessive thatch - Reduction in air exchange.
- Reduced water infiltration.
- Poor seed germination.
- Severe dry patch Inability to cope with drought and high temperatures Increased disease and insect problems.
- Soft spongy playing surfaces.
- Shallow rooting system.
In order to promote a stronger and healthier plant and try to reduce the risk of disease and poor playing surfaces, the priority must be to reduce the thatch levels. This will increase soil oxygen levels and improve water penetration. This may be essential for the turf but unfortunately, it is not seen the same way in the eyes of most golfers. The range of pedestrian and tractor mounted Gradens has been of huge benefit to clubs since there is minimal disruption to play whilst hitting large areas of the surface. With different blade widths each cutting an exceptionally clean, continuous groove in the turf, this can impact up to 250% more surface area for material removal and aeration compared with conventional coring.
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