When the window for scarifying opens in spring, constant rain often causes gardeners a headache. The question therefore arises as to whether the scarifier can be used after a downpour. Read the answer here with practical tips on how to properly comb out lawn weeds.
Can you scarify after rain?
Should you scarify after rain? No, scarifying requires dry soil, as wet soil inhibits the rotation of the blades and makes scarifying difficult for the device and user. Wait for the soil to dry before you start scarifying.
Wet soil makes scarifying hard work
The operation of a scarifier requires a dry surface. There are several sharp knives on a rotating roller. These comb out weeds, moss and thatch. Wet ground inhibits rotation. Even freshly sharpened knives get stuck and turn the lawn into a morass.
Wet lawns make scarifying hard work for the device and the operator. Since a scarifier is not self-propelled, you have to push noticeably harder than under normal conditions. Even a short break is enough for the blades to dig deeper into the mud and destroy the turf.
Scarify the lawn correctly – dry soil alone is not enough
After the rain, wait until wet ground has dried to properly scarify the lawn using these steps:
- Mow the lawn as short as possible
- Set the scarifier to a cutting depth of 3 to 5 mm
- Start the engine and push the device quickly across the green area
- First scarify lengthways, then crossways
After scarifying, the lawn is littered with combed out moss and weeds. Use a rake to sweep the green area thoroughly. In practice, it has proven useful to then drive the lawnmower over the area again to catch the last residue in the basket.
Bald spots larger than a DIN A5 sheet receive reseeding with fresh lawn seeds. Finally, sand lawns with heavy soil as a base with building sand. This measure prevents waterlogging and allows rainwater to seep away more quickly. Two to three weeks after scarifying, you can stimulate vital growth with lawn fertilizer.
Tip
Wet lawns are also unsuitable for scarifying by hand because the grass is mowed at the lowest setting beforehand. For a robust hand-held scarifier (€41.00 at Amazon), wet ground may still be manageable. Wet lawn will force your valuable petrol mower to its limits.
