Thatch is the dead grass and root tissue that lies between the grass and the soil surface. In layers of more than 1 inch it prevents water, air and nutrients from reaching the roots.

A soil full of the right levels of micro organisms, which you will find in a natural environment, will help prevent thatch from building up in the first place.

To check to see whether you have thatch, cut a plug with a knife several inches deep into your lawn. If you have more than a 1 inch of spongy vegetation between the crown of the plant and the soil then you will need to scarify your lawn.

Excessive thatch can be removed by scarifying your lawn using a rake or a Lawns Alive Consultant using modern equipment can carry it out for you.