Question

The phenomena that occurs when clumped clippings remain on the ground too long and cause stressed or dead turf underneath is called the _________ Effect.

Answer 1

The Thatch Effect is the phenomenon where clumped grass clippings cause stressed or dead turf due to impeding necessary elements like sunlight and water from reaching the ground, affecting nutrient recycling and soil health.

Step-by-step explanation:

The phenomenon that occurs when clumped clippings remain on the ground too long and cause stressed or dead turf underneath is called the Thatch Effect. This is a biological concern related to turf management and involves environmental conditions impacting plant health. When cut grass is left in clumps on a lawn, it can create a barrier that hinders sunlight, water, and nutrients from reaching the soil and roots below, which can prevent decomposition and result in stressed or dead patches of grass. Such conditions can also lead to the accumulation of organic material and low levels of nutrients within the soil, much like the formation of peat in certain environments. Additionally, this can interrupt processes such as nutrient recycling that are vital for the health and maintenance of turf and plants.