How to dethatch buffalo lawn

6 Minute(s) read

Your buffalo lawn might look lush on the surface, but lurking just beneath could be a hidden barrier preventing it from thriving: thatch. This thick layer of dead grass and debris can build up over time, choking your lawn’s ability to absorb vital nutrients, water, and sunlight. The solution? Dethatching.

If you're noticing spongy patches or a lawn that looks tired despite regular watering and fertilising, it’s time to learn how to dethatch buffalo grass. In this guide, we’ll show you how to revitalise your lawn by removing that stubborn layer of thatch. Whether you're dealing with Sir Walter buffalo or another variety, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from the best tools to use, to when and how to dethatch your lawn for maximum impact.

Plus, we’ve got a ‘lawn thatching explained’ video guide that shows you exactly what to do in order to dethatch your buffalo lawn properly. 

What is thatch, and why is it a problem for buffalo grass?

Thatch is a layer of organic matter that builds up between the grass blades and the soil surface. While a small amount of thatch can be beneficial as it protects the roots and retains moisture, too much thatch can suffocate the grass and lead to unhealthy growth. This is especially true for warm-season grasses, including Sir Walter buffalo, which are prone to thatch buildup.

Why dethatch?

There are many reasons why dethatching your lawn immediately is a good idea, including:

• Allows nutrients, air, and water to reach the soil more effectively.
• Encourages new growth and improves lawn appearance.
• Prevents lawn diseases and insect infestations that thrive in dense thatch.
• Allows you to remove any dead vegetative material that has been hindering your lawn. 

Without regular dethatching, your buffalo lawn may become patchy, discoloured, or slow-growing. Treat lawn thatching as a key step when maintaining healthy lawns. 

How to dethatch buffalo grass 

The process of dethatching buffalo grass isn’t complicated, but it does require the right tools and timing. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Tools you’ll need to dethatch buffalo lawn

1. Thatching rake – A specialised rake designed to lift and remove thatch.
2. Scarifier (optional) – A mechanical tool that can make the job quicker for larger lawns.
3. Lawn mower – To tidy up the lawn before and after dethatching.
4. Leaf rake – To clean up the debris once you’re done.

Step-by-step guide on dethatching buffalo grass

• Prepare the lawn: Before you start, mow the lawn to about half its usual height. This helps expose the thatch layer for easier removal.
• Use a thatching rake: If you’re dethatching manually, you’ll need to use a thatching rake.

• How to use a thatching rake on buffalo grass: Push the rake down firmly into the thatch layer and pull it toward you, lifting up the thatch. Repeat this process over the entire lawn, working in sections.
• A thatching rake is effective but can be physically demanding in larger areas.

• Using a scarifier (for larger lawns): For large buffalo lawns, you may want to invest in a scarifier.

• Dethatching Sir Walter buffalo lawn with a scarifier can be faster and more efficient. The scarifier works similarly to a rake but uses mechanical blades to cut through the thatch and lift it out.
• Clean up the lawn: After dethatching, use a leaf rake to collect all the dead grass and debris. You can also mow the lawn to clean up any leftover clippings and smooth out the surface.
• Water and fertilise: After dethatching, water your lawn thoroughly to help it recover. Fertilising your lawn will also help. Applying a light fertiliser can also encourage new growth, as the lawn will now have better access to nutrients.

Best time to dethatch buffalo lawn in Australia 

Timing is everything when it comes to lawn care, which is why thatch removal in warm-season months is a good idea. The best time to dethatch grass in Australia is during the growing season, which is typically late spring to early summer (late October to early December). This timing allows the grass to recover quickly and fill in any bare spots left behind after dethatching.

Avoid dethatching during winter or early autumn when the lawn is not actively growing, as this could damage the grass and delay recovery.

How often should you dethatch buffalo lawn?

Most buffalo lawns only need to be dethatched every 2–3 years, depending on how quickly thatch builds up. However, if your lawn feels spongy when you walk on it or the thatch layer is more than 1.5 cm thick, it’s time to dethatch.

Signs your buffalo lawn needs dethatching:

• The grass feels bouncy or spongy.
• Water runs off the surface instead of soaking into the soil.
• The grass looks patchy, thin, or yellow in certain areas.
• It looks like it’s time to remove dead leaf material. 

Dethatching vs aerating: what’s the difference?

It’s easy to confuse dethatching with aeration, but they are two distinct lawn care tasks. While dethatching removes the layer of dead organic material from the surface, aerating focuses on relieving soil compaction by punching small holes into the soil.

Both practices are important, but they serve different purposes. You may find that aerating your lawn after dethatching helps the soil breathe and speeds up recovery.

Post-dethatching lawn care: tips for recovery 

After you’ve dethatched your buffalo lawn, it’s important to take care of it to ensure it recovers quickly. Here are some tips:

• Water deeply: Give your lawn a deep watering right after dethatching to help it recover.
• Fertilise lightly: Apply a balanced fertiliser to encourage strong new growth.
• Mow carefully: Avoid mowing too soon after dethatching. Let the grass recover for a few weeks before cutting it, and stick to moderate-low mowing. 
• Monitor the lawn: Look for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing, and adjust your care routine accordingly.

Let our experts help with your buffalo lawn care needs 

Dethatching buffalo lawn is an important task for maintaining a healthy, green lawn. At Lilydale Instant Lawn, we specialise in buffalo lawns and offer expert advice and services to keep your lawn in top shape. Whether you need help with dethatching or any other lawn care needs, our team is here to help.

Contact Lilydale today to learn more about our turf varieties and find out how we can help you maintain a beautiful buffalo lawn all year long.