The scarifier has the task of removing moss from the lawn and aerating it thoroughly. To ensure that valuable lawn grass does not fall victim to the sharp blades, the correct working depth is important. This guide explains how to set up a scarifier correctly.
How do you set up a scarifier correctly?
To set up a scarifier correctly, mow the lawn deeply, set the scarifier to transport height and regulate the blade shaft to a working height of 2 mm. Check the result and adjust the working depth if necessary (3-5 mm). Continue lengthwise and crosswise until a checkerboard pattern is created.
Setting the scarifier – step-by-step instructions
Choose a date for scarifying in April or May when the weather is dry and overcast. No rain should have fallen in the previous 2 days. Get the lawnmower (€99.00 at Amazon) and the scarifier out of the shed and check that both devices are working properly. How to proceed:
- Mow the lawn as deeply as possible in advance
- Set the scarifier to transport height and push it onto the lawn
- Regulate the knife shaft with the lever to a working height of 2 mm
- Start the scarifier and walk along a path
After the first test run, turn off the device and check the result. The selected setting of 2 mm is correct if all thatch has been combed out and he althy lawn grass remains intact. If there is only a little moss and weeds on the green area, set the working depth lower. Experience has shown that a setting of 3 to 4 mm is sufficient. The blades should only be set to a maximum of 5 mm on a heavily mossy lawn.
Once you have determined the ideal setting for the scarifier, first walk along the green area lengthways slowly and without breaks. Then move the device crosswise across the lawn, ultimately creating a checkerboard pattern.
Reseeding shortens regeneration
Sweep the scarified lawn with a rake. With the lawnmower at the lowest cutting height, you can remove the last remnants of the combed-out clippings. A disheveled green area emerges, which is often covered with numerous bare spots. This is no cause for alarm. With reseeding you can repair the stressed lawn so that it regenerates in no time.
Tip
You can scarify a small lawn area by hand. There are no adjustment options for a manual device version of the scarifier. Rather, you regulate the working depth with your muscle strength. The more pressure you apply to a hand scarifier, the more moss and thatch you will comb out.
