What is the difference between a lawn raker and scarifier?

A lawn rake has a plastic cylinder which is lined with metal tines. This has the capability to comb the lawn, removing the moss and debris effectively. A scarifier, on the other hand, has knife-like steel blades attached to its cylinder.

Is dethatching the same as scarifying?

Both scarifying and dethatching involve dethatching. To keep them separate in your head just remember that scarifying is a deeper, more aggressive process, while dethatching is a fairly shallow, gentle process. There are many different makes and models of dethatchers.

Is scarifying better than raking?

Raking is also much gentler than heavy scarification so recovery is much quicker. This means you can use a rake to mechanically control and slow down the build-up of thatch. As a result, you won’t have to de-thatch your lawn as often.

Is dethatching the same as raking?

Power raking is a more aggressive process of removing thatch and dead matter in the lawn while dethatching is a light process that removes just a thin layer of debris that makes fertilizer absorption poor.

How often should you use a lawn raker?

Instead, lawn expert David Hedges-Gower recommends scarifying domestic (and established) lawns once a year. Some lawn owners, however, prefer to do the job once every two or three years.

Should I cut grass before scarifying?

You should mow before and after scarifying to get the most out of dethatching the lawn. Mowing the lawn before scarifying will let the dethatcher dig deep and remove excess dead grass, whereas mowing it after scarifying lets you scoop the leftover clippings that made it through the dethatcher.

What rake to use for scarifying?

If you are feeling energetic and strong, a spring tine rake will do the job admirably. Be careful not to remove all the thatch as it’s there to protect the delicate growing parts of the plant. On the other hand – too much thatch will slow down drainage and restrict air flow.

How do I revive my lawn after scarifying?

If you have scarified your lawn in the spring, then a spring time fertiliser is probably best to help encourage rapid grass growth. When doing this, ensure that the lawn has plenty of water. Also continue to water your lawn regularly for the next few weeks if it has not been raining.