DeThatching?

[Buck]

I'll atempt an opinion. Earthworms eat thatch in good soil. You need earthworms.

How can you get earthworms? IMHO, by making your soil organically rich.

I'll shut up for a while...

 

[DannyD]

Here is the front yard.........goes down the line to the cedar on the left side and the last pole on the right. Since I would be doubling the size of the yard, should I not be able to double the tractor size, or at least implements.

The 'drive" is well over 300' and was installed by the county (it is what is left of a trail), but they do NOT do the snow removal. Guess one of those blades for the front of the bota would be needed.......... /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

 

[DannyD]

Now that would be good. I know that we have lots of birds eating something. What would make a core aerator perfect is about 3 days of rain, nice slow and constant. Then it would be perfect, and probably would be done as soon as the tractor could get on the ground.

 

[Buck]

My view is that you might be suprised. Those spikes can penetrate!

I would talk to a nurseryman in your area about your clay situation. Not a lawn maintenence guy 'cause I am sure he'll have you dependent on chemicals.

There are a lot of very good books on agronomy that I would be glad to recommend if you send me a private message.

 

[Ledgemere Farm]

Another option is a rotary broom - does a great job of dethatching

I agree, but they are super expensive. I looked at a Sweepster, but it was more than $3,000. Of course, you can always rent one...

 

[Ledgemere Farm]

I got a John Deere core aerator. It looks like little dog turds all over your yard after you run over it. Agri-Fab has a couple of less expensive aerators too. I just prefer the fit and finish of the JD.

 

[bigpete]

Attached is a pic of my "custom" front dethatcher. Simply bolted to the frame of my 54" front blade. The blade frame "quick-tatches" to the front hydraulics:

 

[bigpete]

A little more detail in case you are interested in the attachment hitch setup:

 

[bigpete]

My Turfco TM42 Aerator:

 

[DannyD]

You werent the lucky lotto winner where you? I know where you can put that aerator to work for a day or two..........hey free seat time, cant beat that!