10 minute read
Garden
Scarification. What is it and why does it matter?
A lot is said about the importance of lawn scarification as part of a regular lawncare regime. Let’s take a look at why this is so important and how to get it right.
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What is scarification?
In simple terms, it is raking the surface of the lawn, vigorously. If the lawn area is relatively small, this can be carried out with a spring-tine rake. However, it’s worth realising in advance that this can be hard work. If you are attempting it with a rake, take it slowly, one small area at a time. And be prepared for blisters!
For larger lawn areas, or lawns that are very mossy or thatched and need more intense work, a rake is simply not going to cut the mustard. In these cases, a powered scarifier is required. We meet many homeowners who have what they refer to as a scarifier. Usually what they have is an electric power-rake. The difference is really in the ability of the machine, and the way they rake the surface of the lawn. An electric power-rake usually has spring tines that spin. A professional scarifier will have either fixed or flexible blades which will cope with more challenging conditions.
Why does your lawn need to be scarified?
There are several reasons that a lawn needs this type of work. Firstly, it’s worth saying that even lawns in great condition will benefit from annual scarification.
Lawns can be made up of many different varieties of grass. Some grass types tend to shed more dead leaves. Some send out runners across the surface of the lawn, which over time can create a mat of organic matter that can create thatch issues. Surface lawn thatch can prevent moisture, nutrients, and air from reaching the roots of your lawn. In addition, thatch can harbour the pathogens that cause red-thread and fusarium patches. These common lawn diseases are unsightly and controlling thatch can reduce that problem. For this reason, annual scarification should make up part of your lawn management plan. If a lawn already has a thatch issue, then intensive scarification, along with work to boost the soil biology will break this down, and in doing so release organic nutrition into the soil. For lawns that have deteriorated to the point where they need renovation work, scarification is an integral part of that process. Many lawns will suffer from issues of moss build up. If not dealt with this moss can begin to take over the lawn, smothering out grass that struggles to compete. Moss may be soft to walk on and green in winter, but it soon dries out, leaving a brown lawn over the summer months. In addition, certain grass pests prefer mossy lawns. If left unaddressed, moss can be a serious lawn problem.
In these instances, a petrol-powered, professional lawn scarifier is needed to remove the moss. After the moss has been removed it is essential to treat the area to kill any remaining moss or spores. This is also an ideal time to over-seed the lawn. Newer grass varieties are greener, deeper rooted, harder wearing, more drought and disease tolerant and faster to establish. If your existing lawn is looking bare or tired, then seeding after scarification is the way to go.
Regular lawn treatments to provide the correct nutrition for your grass, feed soil microbial activity to break down organic matter and prevent the build-up of thatch and treat and kill moss over the winter will help create a lawn you can be proud of.
When to scarify a lawn
Typically, this type of work should be carried out in the early spring or autumn depending on the weather and soil conditions. Lawns that tend to become mossy over winter are better to scarify in the spring – removing that moss build-up and preparing the lawn to be at its best over the warmer months to follow. But be careful. Larger lawns, where there is no option to irrigate, scarified too late in the spring, as we move into warmer, drier weather, may take longer to recover.
Now is the time to be thinking about how you want your lawn to look this year. Maintaining a great lawn can be more complicated than many people appreciate. If you need the help of a professional, please get in touch
Ian Kenyon sits on the committee of the UK Lawn Care Association and owns Shrekfeet Professional Lawncare. He is always happy to offer friendly, professional advice and help: T: 01962 460146 www.shrekfeet.com
Build up of organic matter causing thatch During Scarification
Local Advice & Assistance
Winchester Citizens Advice
Lesley Rose, Advice Services Manager for Citizens Advice Winchester District gives advice on what to do when you’re looking to employ someone to make repairs to your home.
I’ve got loads of problems with my house that I’ve been putting off fixing - a faulty boiler, a window that won’t shut properly, broken light fittings. The list goes on! I want to sort it out but I’ve had bad experiences with dodgy builders in the past. How do I find someone I can trust?
Making home improvements can be stressful, but there are a few steps you can follow to help it go smoothly. First, find a Trading Standards ‘approved trader’. You can look for one in your area online or use the Government’s approved trader scheme TrustMark. It’s also worth checking if they’re a current member of a trade body. Trade bodies have codes of practice and can help resolve problems if things go wrong. Ask who they’re registered with and then check the trade body’s website.
For any gas and electric fixes, only use certified traders - it’s dangerous to use someone who doesn’t know what they’re doing. You can check the Gas Safe Register for a list of traders and use a registered electrician who can certify their own work.
It’s always helpful to get references or recommendations where possible. Ask your friends, family or neighbours if they know of anyone they’d recommend. You can also ask the person you hire for examples of work they’ve carried out in the past.
Try to avoid contractors who won’t give references - it’s a sign they could be dishonest. When you find someone, ask for a written quote - this is different to an estimate. A quote is legally binding and the tradesperson can’t change it without a good reason - for example, if you ask for extra work to be done. It’s worth comparing quotes from several contractors to make sure you’re getting a fair price.
Next, get a written contract. This should cover exactly what you’re paying for and everything you’ve agreed on, including timings, payments, who will pay for materials and any subcontractors if needed. When it comes to payment, it’s best to opt to pay in stages rather than upfront. Try to pay by card if you can - this can give you extra safeguards if something goes wrong.
Finally, make sure your trader is fully insured. Keep copies of receipts and your written contract. These will be important as evidence if things go wrong. It’s also helpful to take photos of any problems if they arise.
If you have a problem with a contractor and you’re not sure what to do, call the national Citizens Advice consumer helpline 0808 223 1133 or if you’d like to talk to a local adviser at Citizens Advice Winchester District, call 0808 278 7861.
Help make a difference to older people by volunteering in the Age UK Alresford shop
The Age UK charity shop in Alresford is in urgent need of volunteers and is appealing to the local community to join the team and help out. As well as undertaking a varied role with the opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people, volunteers also help make a real difference to Age UK’s work supporting older people across the UK. The appeal comes as part of Volunteers’ Week 2022, which runs from 1st – 7th June and celebrates the people who contribute their time and talents to help make a difference.
Age UK is dependent on the support and dedication of volunteers, who help Charity’s shops raise vital funds for its work and services for older people who have no one else to turn to. These include Age UK’s free, national Advice Line and Telephone Friendship Service, both of which were in huge demand during the pandemic and are continuing to support those older people who need it including those struggling with the cost of living crisis and rising energy bills.
“Volunteering in an Age UK shop is exciting, varied and rewarding,” says Volunteer at the Age UK Alresford shop. “No two days are ever the same – you meet so many people and are always kept busy. The shop team are supportive and has helped me to develop new skills and grow with my role. It’s great knowing that I am gaining experience and making new friends whilst helping Age UK support older people who don’t have anyone else to turn to. I would recommend volunteering in an Age UK shop to anyone!”
Shop Manager at the Age UK Alresford shop. “Volunteers play an important role at our shop. Not only do they help with the essential operations, but they also offer a friendly welcome and chat to many of the community members who stop in. Every hour they contribute makes a huge difference.
“Volunteering is open to everyone over the age of 18, with no previous experience required. You’ll gain valuable skills and experience while volunteering alongside a team of passionate and friendly people, as well as help make a real difference in what Age UK can achieve. So, if you’re looking for a new challenge, we’d love to hear from you! Please give the Age UK Alresford shop a call on 01962735242
Volunteers can support the shop in a range of activities, both behind the scenes and on the shop floor, including serving customers and creating displays, managing stock donations and assisting with shop administration. Age UK shops offer a range of roles and time slots to fit around busy lives.
To find out more about Age UK’s shops and how you can help, please visit www. ageuk.org.uk/shop-volunteer or get in touch with the Age UK Alresford shop on 01962 5735242.
Lawn Treatments from only £2.75 a week for lawns up to 50m2
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Offer limited to bookings made this month. Limited availability so call now to avoid disapointment. Impress your friends and create a garden your family can really enjoy. Moss, weeds, bare patches and unhealthy lawns can be improved with professional care & maintenance. This requires the right treatments, at the right time of year, applied in the right conditions. Off-the-shelf lawn care products can be OK, professional grade products provide professional results. Our Professional Service
We will visit at a time to suit you, assess the condition of your lawn, and provide a professional report worth £30. Enjoy your superb garden this season without all the hard work - life’s too busy to do everything yourself!
Offers are limited so contact us now to avoid disappointment Local and Independent 'Not a Franchise' Call 01962 460146
www.shrekfeet.com
email: lawnman@shrekfeet.com
