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Thatch is a layer of dead matter which is above the soil line but below the green blades of the grass. If thatch gets too thick, grass will take root in the thatch and not the soil.
To help decide whether your lawn requires dethatching, dig up a small piece with a sharp tool. If the dead grass layer is more than 1/2 inches high, you need to dethatch.
You can dethatch by using a rake or renting a dethatching machine. You can make dethatching an annual part of your lawn care program.