With spring upon us, it’s the perfect time to step outside and focus on the health of your lawn—whether at home or your business. Two essential components for a thriving turfgrass system are proper mowing and managing thatch buildup.
Mowing Matters
During peak growing season—typically from May through June—turfgrass will require more frequent mowing. Maintaining the correct mowing height is key to turf health, and the ideal height varies depending on the grass species, seasonal weather, and growing conditions.
Even more important than the height itself is following the “one-third rule”: never remove more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing. Cutting only the top portion helps preserve the plant’s ability to photosynthesize and supports a stronger, healthier root system below.
Understanding Thatch
As the season progresses and your lawn comes to life, we often focus on the vibrant green growth above ground. But between that lush top layer and the roots lies a vital zone: the thatch layer.
Thatch is a tightly woven mix of living and dead plant material between the green vegetation and the soil. While excessive thatch can be harmful, a moderate layer—about ½ to ¾ inch thick—can actually benefit your lawn. It cushions the soil, reduces compaction, retains moisture, improves nutrient absorption, insulates grass crowns, and helps turf withstand foot and mower traffic.
However, when thatch exceeds ¾ inch, it can prevent water, fertilizers, and pest or disease treatments from reaching the roots. It can also trap moisture near the blades, creating conditions ideal for fungal issues. Over time, excessive thatch can even lead to uneven ground and bumpy turf.
Skip the Roller—Try Aeration or Dethatching
Many homeowners believe rolling their lawn will fix uneven terrain, but we at Garpiel Group advise against it. Rolling compacts the soil and restricts healthy root development. Instead, consider dethatching or core aeration.
Aerating your lawn improves air and water movement, enhances root growth, and encourages the natural breakdown of thatch by boosting microbial activity. It’s a much healthier long-term solution than compaction through rolling.
A Healthy Lawn is More Than Just Green
A well-maintained lawn isn’t just visually appealing—it boosts property value, enhances recreational spaces, and contributes to a healthier environment. And for many, a beautiful landscape is a source of community pride.
Let Garpiel Group help your turf thrive this season.
Learn more from Michigan State University: https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/core_aeration_and_dethatching_of_lawns