Grass Me Up

Thatch - what is it? Causes? And the pros and cons of different solutions!

Grass Me Up

Show Notes

Dr Russell Sharp explains what thatch is, how it builds up, and why it harms turf. He covers causes like rapid growth, drought and the harmful effects of overusing iron and copper products. The episode reviews control methods — scarifying, raking, microbial and enzyme treatments — and the limitations of some commercial products. Russ outlines Eutrema’s Thatch Degrader, how it stimulates native microbes to break down thatch, practical results, and pricing for lawn and sports-turf use. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/thatch-degrader/

More from Grass Me Up

Oct 19, 2026

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explains earthworm biology and why castings surge after wet weather, how they can help or harm lawns and sports turf, and the role of predators and invasive species. He outlines practical castings control options; wetting agents, saponins, sulphur-based treatments, salicylic acid, and pH adjustment. Russell shares Eutrema product recommendations, timing for treatments, and where to get more information. For more tips, see the blog on the topic: https://eutrema.co.uk/controlling-worms-on-golf-courses/

Oct 12, 2026

Dr. Russell Sharp explains Eutrema’s Periodic Table of Turf Health, walking through macronutrients, secondary nutrients, micronutrients, non‑mineral and non‑essential elements, common deficiency symptoms, and practical fertilizer guidance for lawns and sports turf. He also outlines how to get the poster and free swag from Eutrema, shares product recommendations and timing notes, and invites listeners to request further advice or samples. https://eutrema.co.uk/turf-health-periodic-table-poster/

Oct 9, 2026

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explains what hydroseeding is, how it works, and where it’s most useful. He covers the essential materials (seed, gums like xanthan or guar, fibres, liquid feeds and dyes), the machinery involved, common problems such as clumping and pump blockages, and the importance of proper ground preparation and water quality. Dr. Sharp also discusses cost comparisons with turf, environmental benefits, business opportunities, and how Eutrema can help source better, more reliable materials to improve results.Dr Russell Sharp, Founder of Eutrema Ltd. October 2026

Oct 8, 2026

Dr. Russell Sharp shares practical autumn care for cricket pitches: aeration and slitting (his "tickler"), treating fairy rings with wetting agents, and boosting resilience with silicon, iron and targeted nitrogen applications. He also covers product selection, tank-mixing tips, worm castings, compaction, and simple sprayer and maintenance advice for volunteer groundsmen and clubs. https://eutrema.co.uk/lawn-care/

Oct 6, 2026

Dr Russell Sharp of Eutrema takes a clear, practical deep dive into chafer grubs: their life cycle, how to identify the damage they cause to lawns and turf, and why they attract wildlife that further damages turf. The episode explains treatment timing and options — nematodes, wetting agents and lime Sulphur — plus soil considerations.

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