Scarification
is an essential part of lawn maintenance that involves the removal of thatch or
moss from the lawn, helping with air flow and keeping it health.
If
you do not scarify, debris will build up and lead to other problems. For
example, thatchy and mossy lawns will not be very wear or drought
tolerant.
It
is important to scarify at the right time of year, otherwise you will either
risk having an unsightly lawn just when you want to be enjoying it, or you will
open it up to more problems and damage. A light de-thatching or scarifying is
recommended in spring, just as the weather is heating up, and there is an
increase in the growth and recovery of the grass.
In
the autumn, however, is when a more intense, heavier scarification can take
place. At this time of year there are a number of jobs to do around the garden
to ensure that you leave in the best possible state over winter, and this is
one of them. Whilst intense scarification sounds like very hard work, there are
machines available to take the strain out of your lawn maintenance.
The
XC1 B40 from Cub Cadet, for example, steps up to the challenge with a powerful
35 H OHV Cub Cadet engine and a 1.7 litre fuel tank. The 34 verticutter blades,
each with a width of 163mm, scratch out the dead grass and moss with ease,
allowing in light and rain all the way down to the roots.
The
machine also has the added benefit being able to aerate the lawn if necessary.
To do this, simply use the higher position with a gentle touch of the blades
and springs on the surface of the soil. When scarifying use a deeper blade and
spring setting to allow for a more aggressive action on the lawn surface. A
central height adjuster knob enables infinite working depth adjustment.
Featuring a wide 35cm working width, the machine has folding
handles for easy storage or transport and an optional collection bag for
collecting the debris can be purchased if desired, although due to the volume
that is raked out of the lawn, most people will find it more effective to go
over with their mower to collect the debris.
