Georgia Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

Which of these statements about thatch is false?

1. Thatch should be at least 2 inches thick to keep soil cool

2. Thatch should be no more than 1/2 inches thick

3. Excess thatch prevents water and fertilizer from getting to the root

4. Thatch provides a good environment for pests

The correct answer is: Thatch should be at least 2 inches thick to keep soil cool

The statement that thatch should be at least 2 inches thick to keep soil cool is misleading because thatch, when too thick, can actually cause more problems than benefits. Thatch is a layer of dead and decaying plant material, such as grass clippings and roots, that accumulates on the soil surface. While a small amount of thatch can indeed help insulate the soil, a thickness of 2 inches is excessive and can lead to several issues. Excessive thatch can hinder the movement of water and nutrients, making it difficult for them to reach the roots of the grass. This lack of accessibility can result in stress on the grass and lead to poor health. Additionally, thick layers of thatch can create a favorable environment for pests and diseases, as they often thrive in such conditions. Therefore, it is important to maintain a balanced amount of thatch, ideally no thicker than 1/2 inch, to promote optimal grass health and prevent potential problems associated with excess thatch.