What defines thatch in the context of turfgrass?

Thatch is defined as a layer of intermingled living and dead grass components that accumulates on the soil surface in turfgrass environments. This organic matter includes decaying grass stems, roots, and other plant materials that can impact the health of grass by affecting water infiltration, nutrient availability, and even creating an environment conducive to pests and diseases. Thatch can inhibit the establishment of new grass seedlings and create a barrier to proper mowing or maintenance practices.

Understanding thatch is crucial for maintaining healthy turfgrass because it requires regular management through practices such as core aeration, dethatching, and proper mowing to ensure that it does not build up excessively. In contrast, other options, such as grass clippings or types of weed growth, do not accurately describe thatch, as they represent different aspects of turf management.