Using electric scarifier

chloesdad

Hi all.
I had a new lawn laid last summer - all nicely bedded in now. I’ve given it a first cut this year recently and noticed quite a bit of thatch build up, although grass generally looks healthy. It’s quite a large lawn so I’d like to use an electric scarifier. However, I did use it on a previous lawn and ended up with no grass left! That lawn was in particularly bad shape (and was why we had it relaid). I suppose I’m looking for some comfort that I should be ok to use it on the new healthy lawn, and any tips?

twopenny

I've used one on a large lawn that could only get better. Nice solid well trodden and it worked really well.

I'd be reluctant to use one on a new lawn.

Are you sure it's thatch build up or just a bit of decomposing clippings?

What sort of lawnmower do you use?

chloesdad

I use an electric cordless mower - a Spear & Jackson.
I’m leaning towards not using the scarifier having done some further reading last night. I think a more vigorous rake with a spring tine on the worst affected areas may be the best bet!

twopenny

I think you could be right.

I did mine in bits last year and looked on it as calorie burning for the lockdown spread.

Put the raked moss out for the birds nesting.

greyteam1959

If the lawn is less than a year old you could really rip it to bits if you scarify it now.
You could quite possibly pull the turf up if you not very careful.
I would certainly not be using a scarifier on it for at least another year at the soonest.

donemedosh

I would agree with greyteam new lawns take time to really get thier roots down & would not scarify till next year. If the thatch build up is an issue use a hand rake. Plus if/when you scarify put the machine on the highest level to start then drop it down a bit at a time

greenbee

I have an electric scarifier (well it belongs to my brother but appears to live in my garage) which I use occasionally, but TBH I think I get a better job done with a spring-tine rake. 

[Deleted User]

..... and tone those muscles in the process !
I actually enjoy scarifying, it's very rewarding - i all ways !

[Deleted User]

Try using a lawn spiker, regularly to aerate the lawn - that's what we use and it keeps the moss down