It is a natural component of turfgrass. When an excessive thatch accumulates, it means plant tissue is being produced more quickly than it is being decomposed. Thatch is decomposed by bacteria, fungi, earthworms and other organisms that naturally live in the soil. Excessive thatch often causes the mower to sink because the turfgrass is 'spongy'. This results in a lower cutting height than desired and potential scalping of St. Augustinegrass, which will result in stressed turf.
Physical removal is the best way to eliminate excessive thatch.
To prevent excessive thatch from occurring again, review your maintenance practices. Correct those practices that may be promoting excess thatch development. Soil physical and chemical status Compacted soils will prevent proper drainage resulting in areas that remain excessively wet. Turfgrass in these areas may have root systems that are deprived of oxygen, resulting in a weak plant. This is also an ideal situation for root rots to develop.