What Is Lawn Thatch?
Lawn thatch is a layer of dead and living organic matter — like roots, stems, and debris — that builds up between the grass and the soil. A thin layer of thatch (under 1 cm) can actually be beneficial, helping insulate the soil and retain moisture. But when it gets too thick, it starts to choke your lawn.
Signs of excessive thatch include:
- A spongy feel underfoot
- Poor water absorption
- Increased pest and disease activity
- Patchy or thinning grass
Why Thatch Is a Problem for Aussie Lawns
In Australia, warm-season grasses like couch, buffalo, and kikuyu are especially prone to thatch buildup. Our climate encourages fast growth, which means more organic material — and more potential for thatch.
Too much thatch:
- Blocks water, nutrients, and air from reaching the soil
- Creates a breeding ground for pests and fungi
- Makes lawns more vulnerable to drought and stress
Traditional Methods of Thatch Removal
Manual Dethatching (Raking)
Using a thatch rake or stiff garden rake, you can manually pull up the top layer of thatch. This is best for small lawns or light thatch.
Pros: Cheap, simple
Cons: Labour-intensive, not ideal for large areas
Cons: Labour-intensive, not ideal for large areas
Mechanical Dethatching (Scarifying/Coring)
Scarifiers or corers, slice or core through the turf to remove thatch. These are effective but can be harsh on your lawn.
Pros: Fast, thorough, high removal of thatch
Cons: Can damage grass, requires recovery time, costly
Cons: Can damage grass, requires recovery time, costly
Biological Dethatching: A Natural Alternative
If you’re looking for a gentler, more sustainable approach, biological dethatching is the way to go. Products like ThatchZyme use natural enzymes to break down thatch without tearing up your lawn.
How ThatchZyme Works
ThatchZyme contains a blend of enzymes that digest the organic matter in the thatch layer. It:
- Breaks down dead roots and stems
- Improves soil health
- Boosts microbial activity
- Reduces the need for mechanical intervention
It’s safe for pets, kids, and the environment — and it works over time to restore balance to your lawn.
When to Dethatch Your Lawn in Australia
The best time to dethatch depends on your grass type and region:
- Spring: Ideal for warm-season grasses like couch and buffalo
- Early autumn: Good for cool-season grasses in southern regions
Avoid dethatching during extreme heat or drought. If using ThatchZyme, it can be applied during active growth periods when soil temperatures are above 15°C.
How to Use ThatchZyme for Best Results
- Mow your lawn short before application
- Apply ThatchZyme evenly using a sprayer or watering can
- Water in lightly to activate the enzymes
- Repeat monthly
FAQs About Lawn Thatch and ThatchZyme
Can I use ThatchZyme with other lawn products?
Yes — it’s compatible with most fertilisers and soil conditioners.
Yes — it’s compatible with most fertilisers and soil conditioners.
Is ThatchZyme safe for pets and kids?
Absolutely. It’s a biological product with no harsh chemicals.
Absolutely. It’s a biological product with no harsh chemicals.
Is ThatchZyme all I need for thatch management?
Thatch builds up fast, Thatchzyme is designed to be used to support other renovation processes, not as a stand alone solution.
Thatch builds up fast, Thatchzyme is designed to be used to support other renovation processes, not as a stand alone solution.
Final Thoughts
Thatch is a silent killer in many Aussie lawns — but it doesn’t have to be. Combining manual, mechanical, and biological you can win the war against lawn thatch.
ThatchZyme offers a smart, sustainable solution that works with nature, not against it.
