Dethatch
Thatch in lawns can be both beneficial and detrimental, depending on its thickness. A thin layer of thatch, 1/2 inch or less, insulates against temperature extremes and soil moisture fluctuations, promoting healthy turf. However, when thatch exceeds an inch, it can cause significant issues, such as increased pest problems and reduced effectiveness of pesticides. Thatch consists of organic debris, mainly stem nodes, crowns, and vascular tissue, and becomes problematic when its production outpaces microbial degradation.
Natural Dethatch Pro is designed to tackle excessive thatch by enhancing microbial populations that degrade all components of thatch: cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. It uses a blend of Bacillus, Cellulomonas, and Trichoderma to break down cellulose, while Bacillus and Cellvibrio target hemicellulose. For the more resistant lignin, the product includes Pseudomonas putida, Streptomyces griseus, Streptomyces coelicolor, and Penicillium bilaii, which produce enzymes that effectively degrade lignin. This comprehensive approach ensures thorough thatch degradation, promoting healthier lawns.
Excessive thatch harbors pathogenic fungi and insects, impeding the movement of air, water, and nutrients in the soil, which negatively affects plant and soil health. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and creeping red fescue are more prone to thatch buildup compared to warm-season grasses. Pesticides, especially fungicides and insecticides, exacerbate thatch problems by harming beneficial soil organisms like earthworms, which are crucial for breaking down thatch. Overuse of nitrogen fertilizers also accelerates thatch development by promoting rapid root and stem growth that microbes can’t keep up with.
Other Products
Aerification Blend
An Aerification Blend fertilizer is a specialized formulation designed to enhance soil aeration and improve root growth. It typically contains a balanced mix of nutrients and soil conditioners that help alleviate soil compaction, increase water infiltration, and promote healthier, more resilient turf. Ideal for use after aeration, this blend ensures optimal nutrient uptake and fosters a lush, green lawn.
Pond Pucks
Pond Pucks are a convenient solution for maintaining healthy pond and lake ecosystems. These biologically enhanced tablets help reduce excess nutrients, combat sludge and muck, and improve water clarity and quality. Ideal for regular use, Pond Pucks ensure a cleaner, more balanced aquatic environment.