Abstract
In many intensively cultured turfs, thatch, an organic layer of leaves, stems, and roots, that develops above the soil surface, is recognized as a potentially serious problem. This study evaluated the constituents of turfgrass thatch in terms of organic matter (OM), cellulose, and lignin content. Ten samples were analyzed containing two or three layers of 2‐cm thick for a total of 30 layers. As thatch layers may often include mineral matter, a technique was developed to separate the OM from any mineral particles in the samples. An important loss of OM was observed during the separation process. Despite problems encountered during the constituent analyses due to the heterogeneity of the samples and the presence of mineral matter, results showed a significant increase in lignin content with depth.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
