Our "From the GROUNDS" series brings you the latest updates, expert tips and behind-the-scenes insigths from our incredible Shiplake grounds and maintenance team. Whether it's advice on garden upkeep, sustainability projects, or seasonal maintenance, this series keeps you CONNECTED with the team dedicated to making the college a safe, green, and beautiful place to learn!

Today we hear from Head of Gardens, Reiss Phillips, who teaches us all about lawn scarifying, a process that keeps the lawns at the college - and your lawns at home - in top condition!

What is scarifying?

If your lawn has developed lots of bare patches or moss, you probably need to scarify it. Scarifying a lawn is simply the process of removing dead thatch (the brown material found beneath the green grass blades). A small amount of thatch is a good thing in lawns, but in large quantities it can inhibit growth of new grass, prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots, and encourage moss to form. To scarify a lawn you will need a rake or scarifying machine. You, in effect, scratch the grass to remove the thatch – it can look unsightly initially but if you trust the process you'll have a lush, green lawn in no time. Aim to keep the amount of thatch in a lawn less than 1cm deep. Any more than that will result in a patchy lawn with lots of moss, but less than 1cm could damage the lawn.

When should you scarify a lawn?

Scarify your lawn in spring or early autumn (well ahead of the first frosts), ideally once a year, to keep the lawn in good shape. On new lawns, wait at least a year before scarifying, otherwise you can damage the turf. Do not scarify if it is too wet, Ideally you want the ground to have a little moisture. Too wet and the lawn will become messy and the scarifying method will not be as effective. The rains is are best after the process is complete. 

How do you scarify a lawn?

Using a spring-tined rake, gently rake the thatch out of the lawn – you'll soon notice brown, grassy material and moss piling up. Be careful not to be too rough, as you could cause damage, and make sure you leave some thatch – a small amount helps to protect the lawn. Work in different directions to ensure the thatch comes out evenly, at least 2 directions.

What to do after scarifying a lawn

After scarifying, pick up the spent thatch and add it to the compost heap. Then, it's a good idea to aerate the lawn, which reduces compaction and creates a healthier root system. Simply use a garden fork and push it into the ground at regular intervals, moving it back and forth.

After scarifying and aerating your lawn, it will look worse than it did when you started. You may want to apply an autumn fertiliser to boost lawn growth or leave it to recover on its own, but it will definitely be healthier for a good annual scarifying.

Wow - the more you know! We hope you found Reiss's lawn scarifying guide helpful. With his expert tips, we're sure your lawn will be looking luscious in no time!

 Written by Reiss Phillips, Head of Gardens