Control De-Thatcher, a rich organic solution with 15% slow release nitrogen, contains enzyme-producing microbes that assist in the breakdown of thatch. This product works by establishing the correct balance of naturally occurring soil microbes and select enzymes. It also helps keep the proper carbon to nitrogen ratio.

When applied to the soil, the microbes in Control De-Thatcher produce significant quantities of protease and cellulase that will digest proteins contained in thatch and other organic compounds in the soil. The beneficial bacteria in De-Thatcher also produce amylases, lipases, xylanases, and pectinases, which break down organic matter into valuable nutrients.

Control De-Thatcher is an important tool to assist in banishing the condition most commonly referred to as "Black Layer" or Pythium root rot. The first visible symptom of Black Layer is a yellowing of the grass. Another symptom of Black Layer is a "rotten egg" odor. If left untreated, the turf will become weak and thin. This can lead to die-off in the late summer.

Black Layer typically develops in water-logged or anaerobic soils, where sulfur-reducing bacteria predominate. These bacteria reduce sulfur to sulfides, which then combine with iron and manganese, which are black in color, thus creating a darkened layer of soil. (In soils with adequate oxygen, sulfur is oxidized to sulfates, and the problem does not occur.)

Sulfides can be toxic to the roots, and some experts surmise that the turf's roots actually die sometime before the Black Layer becomes visible in the soil.

While the jury is still out regarding the ultimate cause of Black Layer, the incidence of this soil condition can be greatly reduced by making sure your soil has both plenty of organic matter, plenty of microbial diversity, and a reduced thatch layer. Control De-Thatcher (15-0-0) can help on all of these fronts.