What is thatch?

Thatch refers to a layer of organic material that develops on the soil surface, primarily consisting of dead grass, roots, and other plant materials. It plays a significant role in lawn health and maintenance. A certain amount of thatch can be beneficial as it helps retain moisture and nutrients in the soil. However, excessive thatch can create problems such as impeded water and nutrient absorption by the soil, leading to a poorly performing lawn.

The other options, while related to soil and grass, do not accurately describe thatch. The layer of soil is fundamental to plant growth but does not capture the specific organic material that thatch represents. Inorganic substances are materials that do not contain carbon and are not organic in nature, which is contrary to the definition of thatch. A type of grass encompasses the different species of grass that can exist in a lawn but does not specifically pertain to the organic layer above the soil. Understanding the concept of thatch is critical for effective lawn care, since managing its thickness can impact overall grass health.