A stolon is an above-ground stem, while a rhizome is a modified stem that runs underground horizontally. Lawn thatch, which can affect the condition of your lawn, is comprised mostly of rhizomes and stolons. Thatch is the layer of yellow blades at the base of grasses and gives your lawn a bit of bounce making it feel a bit spongy when you stand on it. It is basically the base of old grass stems which start to die and decay when grass grows new shoots. One the layer of thatch becomes thicker than 2-3cm, it can cause the quality of your lawn to deteriorate due to nutrient deficiency, potential drought issues and lawn diseases. If thatch does start to build up over two or three centimetres thick, then it is a good idea to scarify your lawn in the autumn or spring. Use a scarification rake or for larger lawns, a mechanical lawn scarifier to remove the excess thatch so that the water and air can reach the soil again. Aerating your lawn encourages grass to grow strong, deep roots and helps to reduce the build-up of thatch.

If removing thatch has left some areas bare, overseed the areas to build up a healthy lawn.