Lawn thatch is a dense mat of dead grass, clippings, and dead insect matter accumulating on the lawn over time. Scarifying removes the thatch on lawn surfaces and ensures water, vital nutrients, and oxygen flow. It also encourages the growth of a healthier and thicker turf.
We evaluated the best scarifiers available in Australia and compiled a list of our top picks to help you find which suits your lawn and garden needs. Our list includes mechanical, gas-powered, battery-powered, and corded-electric scarifiers, many of which double as lawn aerators and dethatchers.
Our Top Picks
Are you pressed for time but in dire need of a high-quality and high-performing lawn scarifier? No problem. Here is a quick roundup of our top lawn scarifiers on the Australian market:
Makita UV3600 Scarifier
Best corded-electric lawn scarifier with a cutting width of 36 cm, four cutting height steps, and a collection bag capacity of 40 litres.
Greenworks 40V Scarifier
Best battery-powered lawn scarifier with a cutting width of 36 cm, five cutting height steps, and a 45-litre collection bag.
Hyundai HYSC210 Scarifier
Best petrol lawn scarifier with a 4-Stroke OHV Single Valve engine, 40 cm cutting width, 45 L collection bag, and a stepless cutting depth.
Top 9 Lawn Scarifiers for Australians
Our in-depth analysis and evaluation of the lawn scarifiers below consider each scarifier's use cases, product features, user experience, and feedback. The following is a complete assessment of our top picks.
1. Makita UV3600 Scarifier
Best Overall Lawn Scarifier
Cutting width: 36 cm
Cutting heights: 4 steps
Collection bag: 40 litres
The Makita UV3600 is an entry-level electric scarifier ideal for most Australian homeowners. With an 1800W motor, the scarifier is perfect for lawns up to 350 sqm. It packs a 36 cm working width and 10 mm working depth that helps it cover a good amount of ground with each pass. You can adjust the scarification depth with the central height adjustment lever in four cutting height positions.
Makita's UV3600 Scarifier includes a foldable handle, which is a thoughtful addition. It also has a fully foam-covered and adjustable push handle, adding to its overall comfort. While it generates some noise at 85.5 dB(A), it's expected. Likewise, the 5.0 m/s² vibration is manageable, and the overall performance outweighs any minor inconveniences.
Safety is a top priority, and this scarifier delivers with its double safety switch that prevents any sudden start-ups, providing peace of mind during operation. And its 40-litre collection box is a decent size for small to medium-sized lawns.
Pros
- Electrically powered
- Provides precise depth adjustment
- Powerful motor for high blade spinning speeds
- Easy to operate
- Large wheels for stability and easy movement
Cons
- Noisy during operation
- Slight vibrating in operation
2. Greenworks 40V Dethatcher & Scarifier
Best Battery-Powered Lawn Scarifier
Cutting width: 36 cm
Cutting height: 5 steps
Collection bag: 45 litres
The Greenworks dethatcher tool is a battery-powered scarifier; you can start scarifying instantly, free, and without cables. The scarifier features rechargeable 40V batteries that do not come with the product. You must purchase them separately or use batteries from other Greenworks products since they are compatible.
The scarifier tool has two cylinders that aerate and scarify to ensure a beautiful and healthy lawn. It ensures new growth for the lawn with the assistance of the 36 cm wide aerator for removing leaves, dead moss, and grass, thereby ensuring good absorption of light, water, and nutrients. The tool has a speed of 3900 rpm and a central working height, which homeowners can adjust in five steps between -12 mm and +5 mm.
Greenwork's dethatcher also features twenty steel blades that scarify the soil, operating deeply and vertically to improve oxygenation, nutrient uptake, and drainage. Its four wheels offer safe support and great manoeuvrability even on irregular terrains during use.
Pros
- Portable and manoeuvrable
- 5 levels of adjustment
- Easy to switch the dethatching and scarifying
- Brushless motor for low noise
- Large collection bag
Cons
- Battery is not included
3. LawnMaster GV1212B Scarifier & Dethatcher
Best Lawn Scarifier and Dethatcher Combo
Cutting width: 30.48 cm
Cutting height: 19 positions
Collection bag: 28 litres
The LawnMaster GV1212B is a budget-friendly dethatcher and scarifier that is excellent for small and medium-sized lawns. As a detacher and scarifier, its 12-inch cylinders are removable and can be swapped out per task. The tool is powered by a 12-amp motor with a speed of up to 3400rpm for efficient scarification or dethatching work.
The scarifier has 19 different settings for cutting grass. It can cut between -10 and 5 mm for the scarifier cylinder and -5 and 10 mm for the dethatcher cylinder. This means it can work on several kinds of lawns or grounds. Starting the scarifier is easy, and it has a lever that lets you adjust the height with just one touch. Since it's an electric scarifier that uses a cord, it's easy to take care of. You don't need gas or oil, just plug it in, and you're ready to go.
LawnMaster's scarifier and dethatcher weigh 11.2 kg. Adding to its foldable handles, the tool is easily transported and stored. It also has 170 mm front and 100 mm rear wheels, improving its manoeuvrability during operations.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- Lawn scarifier and dethatcher combo
- Strong motor for tough thatches
- 19 depth adjustments for versatility
- Foldable handlebar allows for easy storage
- Wide cutting width improves coverage
Cons
- 28-litre collection bag is small
4. Hyundai HYSC210 Scarifier & Aerator
Best Petrol Lawn Scarifier
Engine: 4-Stroke OHV Single Valve
Cutting width: 40 cm
Collection bag: 45 L
The Hyundai HYSC210 is a petrol-powered machine with a 4-stroke OHV petrol engine that delivers superior scarifying and aerating performance. It offers better fuel efficiency and less pollution as it consumes fuel once every four strokes. Still doesn't compare to electric and battery-powered models, which have zero emissions.
On the brighter side, you don't need extra oil to operate the engine. Only lubrication is necessary for the moving parts. The cylinder on the Hyundai HYSC210 has eighteen hardened steel blades. So, you can expect it to penetrate the toughest soils and thatches easily. Likewise, its stepless cutting depth is easy to adjust from -1.5 to +1.5 cm for work on different lawns and yard conditions.
For ease of use and ergonomics, Hyundai’s HYSC210 handle is ergonomically designed, and the controls are conveniently positioned on the right side of the handle for easy operation. The convenient transport position also makes movement over paving and decking easier.
Pros
- Large catcher bag
- Freedom of movement without power cords
- Powerful 4-stroke engine for large lawns
- Deeper penetration for tough thatches and weeds
- Easy to use and operate
Cons
- Heavy tool
- Petrol engine is noisy
5. Sun Joe AJ801E Electric Scarifier
Best Scarifier for Small Yards
Cutting width: 32 cm
Cutting height: 5 positions
Collection bag: 30 litres
The Sun Joe lawn scarifier is perfect for revitalising mid to small-sized lawns. The tool is powered by a robust 12amp motor and a 32 cm cutting path to get the job done in a single move. It has Air boost technology that maximizes thatch pickup and spring steel tines, which stay sharp longer enough to ensure reliable performance.
Sun Joe's lawn scarifier features a 5-position depth control knob to tailor the raking depth from 10mm below the earth to 10mm above the soil, depending on the lawn's scarifying/aerating needs. The model also has a 30-litre thatch collection bag to ensure easy disposal.
Being an electric scarifier, you can start the device instantly by pushing a button. Similarly, it comes with a safety switch that prevents accidental starting. On the downside, it's corded, which limits movement during operation. It weighs 12.25 kg and is built with alloy steel for enhanced durability.
Pros:
- Efficient 32cm cutting path
- Air Boost for thatch pickup
- Durable spring steel tines
- Instant start with safety switch
- Sturdy alloy steel construction
Cons:
- Corded limitation
- Average 30L collection bag
6. Makita UV3200 Lawn Scarifier
Best Scarifier for Limited Space
Cutting width: 32 cm
Cutting height: 5 positions
Collection bag: 30 litres
The Makita UV3200 is a more expensive model than the LawnMaster GV1212B lawn scarifier. However, it offers more depth during scarifying than the LawnMaster GV1212B. The device is powered by a 1,300W motor that can run up to 3500rpm. This scarifier features a 32 cm working width and 5 height settings between -10 and 10 mm.
Makita's lawn scarifier has a 30L nylon collection bag to collect the thatch raked out during operation. 30L can be too small, depending on the size of your lawn. If you have to empty the collection bag by the minute, it might be more productive to do without it. At 14 kg, we consider it a lightweight model. Combining this with its foldable and adjustable handlebars, the Makita UV3200 lawn scarifier is ideal for small storage spaces and is easy to transport.
Pros
- Robust housing features
- Easy to adjust the working height
- Ergonomic handle is easy to use
- Large wheels for stability and easy movement
Cons
- Average collection bag capacity
7. Ryobi 2x18V ONE+ Brushless Scarifier
Best Scarifier With Large Collection Bag
Cutting width: 35 cm
Cutting height: 4 positions
Collection bag: 55 litres
The Ryobi 2x18V ONE+ Brushless Scarifier helps remove debris that can be devastating, leaving your lawn looking dull and soggy. Its 16 stainless steel blades help reduce the layers of thatch in the lawn, which prevents water and fertiliser from penetrating the roots of the grass.
The lawn scarifier is also tough enough to deal with challenging soil types. It features a 35cm-wide scarifying path and four depth settings to help achieve your dream lawn without all the effort of raking or the expense of bigger machines.
To drive the Ryobi ONE+ brushless scarifier powerful and get maximum results from the device, you will need 2 X 18V ONE+ batteries. This unit comes with foldable/collapsible handles that make it easy to store. It also includes a 55-litre debris catcher (the largest on our list) that collects dead grass, debris, and thatch, removing the need to rake up after use manually.
Pros
- Effective debris removal
- 35 cm-wide scarifying path
- Powerful brushless operation
- Foldable/collapsible handles for storage
- 55-litre debris catcher
Cons
- Battery purchase required
8. Costway Rolling Scarifier
Best Manual Lawn Scarifier
Height: 21 cm
Width: 45 cm
Weight: 3.5 kg
The Costway Rolling Scarifier is the best manual lawn scarifying tool available in Australia. It’s easy to use and a resourceful way to keep your yard scarified and healthy. Note that being a manual scarifier, it lacks the advanced features of powered scarifier models.
The rolling scarifier is made of good quality materials. Its PP plastic wheels are durable and easy-rolling, reducing the effort you need to scarify thick thatches. Likewise, the galvanised steel pipe and heavy-duty nails hardly collapse when working on the toughest lawns.
The manual scarifier from Costway is fitted with a spiral non-slip handle that increases friction and ensures your hands don’t slip when operating the machine. We appreciate how easy it is to assemble. It has a simple instruction manual with easy-to-follow step-by-step guidelines.
Pros
- Made of durable and sturdy materials
- Metallic parts are rust-resistant
- Designed with high deformation resistance
- Heavy-duty wheels are easy to roll
- Includes quick and easy assembling guide
Cons
- Not ideal for all scarification tasks
- Spikes are not long enough for some lawns
9. vidaXL Scarifier for Ride-on Mower
Best Pull Behind Lawn Scarifier
Tine: 3/16 heat-treated steel tine
No. of teeth: 20
Weight: 14 kg
Do you have a ride-on lawn mower? Then you may not need a full-fledged lawn scarifyer. The 100cm Scarifier for Ride-on Mower is simple, effective, and can easily break up dirt and remove the top layer of lawn debris. It has 20 sharp tines for grabbing and digging out dead grass. The 3/16 sharpness-retaining steel tines are completely rustproof and spring-loaded.
Per the manufacturer, vidaXL, the tines on the ride-on scarifier undergo serious heat treatment to ensure they perform their best. This also improves performance and adds to the durability of the teeth. Even so, you can replace the blades in case of any damage. The detaching and attaching process is easy, even for a first-timer.
To help you with the carrying task, the scarifier is attached to heavy-duty wheels, providing smooth transportation for the dethatcher. You can also set the depth of dig-in of the teeth with the help of the included cantilever, which allows you to raise or lower the teeth according to your needs.
Pros
- Digs out thatches and debris with precision
- Tines are heat-treated for added durability
- Strong wheels for smooth transportation
- Can be weighed down for dense moss growth
Cons
- Hitch not universally compatible with all ride-on mowers
Is a Lawn Scarifier Worth It?
A lawn scarifier is worth buying and using for regular turf maintenance. They help improve your lawn's health by allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots better and more easily. Scarifiers also promote new grass growth by removing the layer of thatch that can build up over time.
If you have a lawn looking tired and you suspect it has a lot of thatch buildup, then using a lawn scarifier can be a good way to rejuvenate it and improve your lawn's overall health and appearance.
However, if you have a relatively new lawn that has yet to have time to build up a significant layer of thatch, then a scarifier may not be necessary. Additionally, purchasing a scarifier may not be worth purchasing if you have a small lawn, as you may achieve similar results by manually raking the lawn.
Ultimately, whether a lawn scarifier is worth it will depend on your specific situation, the size of your lawn, and your preferences. If you're unsure whether a scarifier is the right choice for your lawn, you may want to consult a lawn care professional or a gardening expert for their opinion.
Scarifier vs. Aerator: What Does Each Do?
Scarifiers and aerators have similar functions but are not the same. A lawn aerator is a gardening instrument used to make holes in the ground to encourage lawn grass growth, whereas a scarifier is a tool with spikes that helps loosen and remove debris from the lawn surface, keeping the lawn looking green and tidy.
Aeration plays a crucial role in improving soil drainage in compacted lawns and fostering an environment for worms, microfauna, and microflora that rely on oxygen. Lawn scarification is critical to enhancing the overall health of the lawn by removing thatch, moss, and other organic debris, allowing for better nutrient absorption, water penetration, and air circulation in the soil.
Mark Thompson
Types of Lawn Scarifiers
Lawn scarifiers are classified mostly by their power source. The common types of scarifiers in Australia include:
- Electric Scarifiers: Powered by electricity, these corded scarifiers are efficient and suitable for medium-sized lawns. They often come with adjustable settings for depth and can be more convenient than manual options.
- Battery-Powered Scarifiers: Battery-powered scarifiers have rechargeable batteries, usually lithium-ion, which provide power for the scarifying operation. The batteries eliminate the need for electrical cords or fuel, offering greater mobility and ease of use.
- Petrol/Diesel Scarifiers: Ideal for larger lawns, these scarifiers are powered by petrol or diesel engines, offering increased mobility and power. They are suitable for heavy-duty scarifying tasks and are commonly used by professional landscapers.
- Manual Scarifiers: Manual scarifiers are perfect for use on smaller lawns. They are hand-operated tools that feature blades or tines for cutting into the soil and removing debris.
Cylinder scarifiers use a cylindrical housing for blades or tines, making them effective for cutting into the soil and removing debris, contributing to overall lawn health.
Drum scarifiers feature a rotating drum with blades or tines and are particularly efficient in tackling thatch and moss removal. To decide between the two, consider your lawn size, the extent of thatch or moss, and your preferred operation method.
How to Choose the Best Scarifier
When choosing a lawn scarifier, you must consider some factors to ensure that you get the right tool for your needs. Here are a few factors to remember:
- Type of Scarifier: The three main types of scarifiers are electric, petrol, and hand scarifiers. Hand (manual) scarifiers are typically less expensive and require more physical effort, while electric and petrol (powered) scarifiers are more expensive but easier to use. A powered scarifier may be a better choice if you have a large lawn or limited physical ability.
- Blade Type: The blade type is also an important consideration. There are two main types of blades - fixed and floating. Fixed blades are more aggressive and better suited for heavily thatched lawns while floating blades are gentler and better suited for lawns with a light thatch layer. Some scarifiers have adjustable blade height, allowing you to choose the right setting for your lawn.
- Collection Bag: If you want to collect the thatch as you scarify, look for a model with a collection bag. This can make cleanup easier and prevent thatch from being spread around your lawn.
- Power Source: If you choose a powered scarifier, consider the power source. Gas or petrol-powered scarifiers are generally more powerful but require more maintenance and emit exhaust fumes. Electric scarifiers are quieter, cleaner, and easier to maintain but may be less powerful.
- Brand and Reviews: Finally, consider the brand and read reviews that come from other customers who have purchased the same model. Look for a brand with a good reputation for quality and customer service, and read their reviews to understand how well the scarifier performs in real-world use.
Considering these factors, you can choose a scarifier that meets your needs and helps you maintain a healthy, beautiful lawn.
How to Prepare a Lawn for Scarifying
Before using a scarifier, preparing your lawn properly is important to ensure the best results. Here are the steps to follow:
- Mow the lawn: Start by mowing the lawn to a shorter length than usual to make it easier to see and remove any present debris or thatch.
- Clear the lawn: After mowing, remove any debris, leaves, or rocks on the lawn to prevent damage to the scarifier and ensure that it works effectively.
- Water the lawn: Water the lawn thoroughly a day or two before using the scarifier to soften the soil and make it easier for the scarifier to penetrate the ground.
- Mark any hazards: If there are any hazards in your lawn, such as sprinkler heads or rocks, mark them clearly so you can avoid them while using the scarifier.
- Adjust the scarifier blades: Before using the scarifier, adjust the blades to the appropriate height. A depth of around 3 to 5 mm is ideal for most scarifiers.
- Begin scarifying: Having now completed the preparations, start the scarifier and work across the lawn in parallel rows. Be sure to overlap each pass slightly to ensure complete coverage.
- Clear up: Once done, rake up the debris and thatch removed from the lawn to prevent thatch buildup in the future and allow the lawn to breathe better.
Following the steps above can help ensure that your lawn is properly prepared for scarification and that you get the best possible results.
Mark Thompson
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions on Australia's best types, uses, and maintenance of scarifiers.
What is the best time to scarifier a lawn?
Late spring to early autumn is the best season to start scarifying your lawns. This is usually also when the grass is in the full growing season. Scarify your turf once or twice a year, depending on your turf's condition and the desired outcome.
During the growing season, grass can recover to a better state than before. Always scarify when the weather conditions are not too cold, hot, and dry. Scarifying leaves your soil exposed and vulnerable to all kinds of growing weeds and other unwanted seeds, so you must time your treatment accordingly.
Does scarifying cut dead grass?
Lawn scarification removes thatch, the layer of dead grass, moss, and other organic matter that accumulates between the grass blades and the soil. However, it is not specifically designed to cut it.
If your lawn has a significant amount of dead grass or other debris, it may be necessary to mow it before scarifying. This can help remove some dead grass and improve the scarification process. Also, mowing the lawn removes loose debris and promotes healthy grass regrowth after scarifying.
Should the scarifier be wet or dry?
It is always ideal to scarify a lawn that is dry. A too-wet soil will risk the scarifier tearing out healthy plant growth. Check that your lawn is not moist before scarifying the turf. And if you must, water your lawn a few days before scarification to avoid scarifying wet lawns.
Is scarifying better than raking?
Lawn scarification and raking are effective methods for removing thatch and other debris from a lawn, but scarification is typically more efficient and effective than raking. Scarification is much faster and more thorough than raking, which can be time-consuming and labour-intensive.
Likewise, scarification removes thatch more deeply than raking, which helps to promote healthier grass growth by allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the roots more easily. Plus, unlike raking, scarification can also help to aerate the soil.
Mark
Does the scarifier damage the lawn?
When used properly, a lawn scarifier should not damage the lawn. However, if used incorrectly or on an unsuitable lawn, a scarifier can potentially cause damage.
For example, if the blades are too low, they can cut into the healthy grass and damage the roots, leading to bare patches and weakened grass growth. Similarly, if you scarify at the wrong time of the year when your grass is not growing as fast as it should, you risk damaging your lawn to a good extent.
Another potential cause of damage is using a scarifier on a wet lawn. Scarifying a wet lawn can be difficult and may cause the machine to clog or damage the grass. Plus, wet grass is likely to tear, creating an uneven surface and making it more difficult for the grass to recover.
How often should you scarifier a lawn?
For hot-season grasses such as Bermuda grass, zoysia grass, and St. Augustine grass, it is best to scarify during the spring when they are actively growing. For cool-season grasses such as fescue and Kentucky bluegrass, scarifying in the fall or early spring when the grass is in its growing season is recommended.
Does a scarifier on a lawn make it look better?
Using a scarifier improves the overall health and appearance of your lawn. It helps prevent issues such as lawn diseases and pests by allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more easily.
When you first scarify your lawn, it may look a little rough and patchy due to removing thatch and dead grass. However, the lawn will recover and grow stronger over time, resulting in a thicker, lusher, and healthier lawn.
From Blades to Blooms
Selecting the right lawn scarifier makes a significant difference in the health and appearance of your lawn. Thus, we recommend considering important factors such as lawn size, terrain, cutting width, and scarifying cylinder depth to choose a model that is best suited to your needs.
Combined with our list of the top lawn scarifiers on the market, you can now take the first step towards achieving a beautiful, well-manicured lawn. So, don't hesitate; explore your options and invest in a quality lawn scarifier that will help you achieve the lush, green lawn you've always wanted.
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