Gardeners should scarify their lawns before August ends to ensure healthier, lusher grass in the coming months, according to lawn care specialist Jonathan Davis at Lawnsmith.
Late summer is the ideal time
While scarifying is commonly associated with spring, Davis says late summer presents an ideal opportunity. "The soil is still warm, which helps the lawn recover more quickly," he explained. "You've also got enough growing weeks left in the season to encourage new grass to fill in any bare patches created by the process."
Scarifying involves removing dead thatch, the brown material beneath the green grass blades, using a rake or scarifying machine. Experts at Gardeners' World caution that the lawn may appear unsightly initially, but it will soon be rewarded with a fresh, vibrant green lawn.
Benefits for autumn and winter
Davis said: "Scarifying opens up the surface, improving airflow and drainage. That reduces the risk of moss buildup over winter and creates better conditions for healthy root development."
For those considering overseeding this autumn, scarifying beforehand can make a considerable difference. Davis explained that the loosened surface encourages seed-to-soil contact, which is crucial for successful germination. Without this contact, seeds simply rest on the surface and struggle to take hold.
While results may not be immediately apparent, the long-term advantages are undeniable. Davis added: "It's not just about what your lawn looks like in a week or two. It's about building a lawn that's thick, healthy, and resistant to disease, weeds, and moss going forward."
