Thatch Cancel The title field is required!

1. Mowrey Mark S

   
   7/30/2014 7:07 PM

   I need to reduce the thatch layer on a 9 hole bent. greens course. Don't have time or manpower to do adequate topdressing and verticutting. Need some suggestions of the better chemical apps. out there for thatch reduction. Thanks for any suggestions.
   Mark.

   
   
   
   
2. Brandon Coulter

   

   0 posts
   
   8/4/2014 9:08 PM

   I've used Floratine THATCH BUSTER in the past with good results! Here's some verbiage from their webpage:
   
   Thatch Buster is a concentrated cellulase enzyme product that duplicates those in nature, breaking down the major component of dead plant tissue.
   Maintenance of dormant enzymes in solution requires special measures, as does initiation of their activity. When activated, precautions must be taken to avoid mixing with harsh chemicals. The enzymes in Thatch Buster are more active at higher temperatures. Do not apply when soil temperatures are at 60ºF (15ºC) or lower. Treated areas should be kept moist to ensure enzymatic activity.
   
   APPLICATION:
   Best results will be realized when ambient air temperatures are greater than 70°F (21°C). Material should be watered in to the interface of soil and thatch. Where thatch is very dense, Pervade can be added to the tank mix to accelerate penetration.
   
   RATE OF APPLICATION:
   Apply 3 fl oz / 1000 sq ft (10 L/ha). Apply every 3-4 weeks for maintenance applications.
   
   COMPATIBILITY:
   Do not mix with non-Floratine adjuvants as they may damage the enzymes.
   
   B. Coulter
   GCS

   
   
   
   
3. Craig Moore

   

   0 posts
   
   8/5/2014 7:08 AM

   Don't waste your time or money on any kind of spray application to alleviate a thatch issue. The only way to get thatch under control is aerification and vertical mowing followed by a consistent sand topdressing program. The topdressing needs to match the plant growth rate to keep the organic matter accumulation diluted. The time it takes to get that thatch layer under control depends on how thick the thatch level is, it can take years.
   There is no 'one and done' product, it takes hard work and dedication to maintain a proper playing surface.

   
   
   
   
4. Mowrey Mark S

   
   8/5/2014 10:08 AM

   Thank you Mr. Coulter and Mr. Moore for your replies. I have used the Florantine with some pretty good results in the past, just wanted to know if there was something else out there that could help with my cultural program. You are right of course Mr. Moore, the way to keep thatch under control is with sound cultural practices and dedication to the program. We have been so shafted in personnel that it is almost impossible to do it this yr. Thank you both for replying. I was beginning to think that no one had any experience with this or cared to respond, even if it was pertaining to correct cultural procedures. Sincerely, Mark.