Its odds for winter kill will soar. The thatch will become a welcoming environment for diseases and insect pests. Research and Extension Certain grass species and environmental factors tend to raise the chances for thatch. Among the common Kansas turf grasses, for example, the most likely to produce thatch are zoysia, bluegrass and bermuda. Ryegrass, fescue and buffalograss may produce little, Keeley said.
Popular opinion holds that grass clippings cause thatch.
Mowing too infrequently. Unfortunately, taking care of excess thatch is much more difficult. Keeley explained that it may involve hiring a profession lawn care service. Use a heavy duty cultivator, disk or plow to till the thatch into the soil. Or, remove the thatch with a sodcutter or with a tractor and blade.