How to Dethatch a Zoysia Lawn

Lawns sometimes accumulate a layer of thatch, which consists of decaying buildup from leaves, roots, stems and stolons. Lawns that produce rhizomes and stolons, like zoysia lawns, have more thatch than lawns without rhizomes and stolons. Too much thatch can make it difficult for lawns to withstand droughts, very hot temperatures or very cold temperatures. Therefore, homeowners with zoysia lawns should occasionally dethatch to keep the lawn healthy.

Rake

High nitrogen fertilizer

Lawn mower

vertical mower

Remove thatch with a rake or vertical mower. Dethatch at a time when the lawn has plenty of time to recover from damage before cold weather sets in. Dethatching during late spring at the earliest and making sure to dethatch with at least 45 days of warm growing season left before the weather cools for fall. Dethatch in two directions, and remove the thatch debris.

Fertilize the lawn after dethatching to help it recover from any damage the raking caused using a balanced or high-nitrogen N-P-K fertilizer and applying 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn.

Fertilize the lawn three times during each growing season to help keep it healthy. Excessive nitrogen can lead to thatch buildup.

To help prevent thatch buildup, mow frequently enough so that no more than one third of growth is cut at one time. Mow a zoysia lawn to a height between 1 and 2 inches at least once per week.

Avoid using pesticides, because they harm the earthworms that help break down thatch.