Liquid Thatch Treatment for Renovations with Terralift T-Thatch

Introduction

Thatch is a layer of organic material that accumulates between the soil surface and the green foliage of turfgrass. It consists of both living and dead plant parts, including roots, stems, and decomposed leaves. The accumulation of excessive thatch in a turf surface can result in several issues, including:

• Surface Softness

An increased thatch layer creates a spongy surface that can affect ball roll, green speed and overall playability.

• Constant Dampness

Thatch retains moisture, which can create a persistently damp playing surface. This excess moisture can negatively affect playability and turf health.

• Nutrient Trapping

The organic matter in thatch can trap nutrients, leading to uneven distribution and potential nutrient imbalances. This can affect turfgrass health, resulting in poor growth and increased susceptibility to stress.

• Horizontal Root Growth

Excessive thatch encourages turfgrass roots to grow horizontally rather than downward. This shallow root system can weaken the turf, making it more susceptible to drought stress and disease.

• Disease Harbour

Thatch provides an ideal environment for various turfgrass diseases. As it retains moisture it can create a microclimate conducive to pathogen development. This can lead to increased disease incidence and severity.

Terralift T-Thatch is a scientifically formulated combination of:

• Concentrated decomposing enzyme solution (Part A) to rapidly breakdown thatch/OM into its cellulose, silicate and humate parts.

• Digestion Microbes (Part B) To convert the decomposed thatch/OM into plant available nutrition and clear soil pore spaces for better aeration.

Trial Results

T-Thatch Excess Organic Material Removal Trial 1

Sand/soil push-up green.

Method

• T-Thatch was applied to half the green at 48L/Ha.

• The entire green was scarified 15 days after the treatment. 

Results

38% more material was removed from the T-Thatch half of the green compared to the untreated half.

Growing Medium

USGA Spec Green

Method

• T-Thatch was applied to half of the trial area at 48L/Ha.

• The trial area was scarified 21 days after the treatment.

Results

The T-Thatch treated area removed an extra 30% of thatch material compared to the untreated plot. 

Sand/soil push-up green.

• Week 1, half the green was treated with T-Thatch at 48L/Ha.
• 23 days after the treatment, the entire green was scarified.
• T-Thatch was then applied to the same half of the green monthly, for 3 months at 48L/Ha.
• 3 fertiliser applications were also applied to the entire green.

Application Information