The rate at which thatch accumulates is determined by the type and vigor of the grass in the lawn. A thatch-prone bluegrass sod, that is given lots of water and fertilizer, forms thatch more rapidly than other grasses given less care. When thatch becomes excessive, the lawn may root into the thatch rather than the soil. Thatch does not hold moisture so lawns rooted into thatch will not tolerate dry weather or cold temperatures. In fact, a very thatchy lawn can be rolled up just like a rug when it dies out.
Thatch management can take several forms.
The easiest management technique is available to homeowners with underground sprinklers. A 20 minute watering at mid-day, every day, helps control thatch by keeping it wet. Such a watering also is adequate for watering the lawn. Three other options are open to homeowners without underground sprinklers. They are power rakes, coring and topdressing.