ThatchZyme in action: early results show healthier turf and cleaner profiles
Persistent thatch buildup has long been a challenge for turf managers, particularly due to the resilience of lignin – the most stubborn component of plant cell walls. ThatchZyme is designed to change that, and early trials are proving its potential.
While cellulose and hemicellulose decomposition are relatively straightforward, lignin – the toughest component of plant cell walls – has always posed a significant hurdle. Now, we are starting to see benefits as ThatchZyme works to break down lignin into humus, creating a more balanced and biologically active soil environment.
This process is more than just decomposition; its supporting plant health.
“Since introducing ThatchZyme into our program at Darwin Golf Club, the difference has been obvious. Within weeks we started to see the thatch layer soften and break down, and water infiltration improved noticeably across the profile. Dry patch areas became far easier to manage, and our fertiliser applications have been more efficient.
Root development has been stronger, overall turf health has lifted, and we’ve seen a visible improvement in colour and density. [..] Members have appreciated less downtime due to the reduction in heavy mechanical dethatching.
It’s been a genuinely valuable addition to our turf management program, and the results have exceeded expectations.”
Tod Lillicrap, Darwin Golf Club
“The results we are seeing after 4 applications (every 3 weeks at 2.6L/ha) are:
– better root structure / depth
– slight increase in firmness
– good health without issues in some troublesome greens
– saw quick improvement on tees in spring to root depth and density.”
Rob Sain, Monash Country Club
Longer, stronger root systems
By breaking lignin down into humus, ThatchZyme isn’t just clearing out thatch — it’s transforming soil biology.
The results? Longer, stronger root systems that anchor plants more effectively and enhance overall turf resilience.
Bentgrass golf green site in Sydney
Untreated control
Treated with Thatchzyme
Cromer Golf Club, New South Wales
Untreated control
Treated with Thatchzyme
“I am extremely interested in managing thatch / organic matter with minimal disruption to the playing surface. We have applied 6 applications of ThatchZyme, every two weeks, @ 1.3 Lt/Ha.
Two sections of the nursery haven’t been treated. The non treated had none of the regular program products applied.
Turf plugs were sampled after the 4th application. Longer roots and white haired roots were observed in the areas were ThatchZyme was applied, compared to non-treated areas.”
Leon Hennessy, Course Superintendent, Cromer Golf Club
Cleaner Soil Profiles
Following 2-3 applications of ThatchZyme we see the emergence of cleaner soil profiles with less layering.
Traditionally, organic matter accumulation can create distinct layers that restrict water and air movement that compromises root penetration. With this new approach, those barriers are breaking down, leading to a more uniform soil structure. This improvement enhances drainage, reduces compaction, and promotes healthier microbial activity throughout the root zone.
The results aren’t theoretical – customers are noticing the difference. Lynwood Golf Club in Sydney, which has endured eleven floods in five years, faced significant challenges with putting surfaces being resown into mat and thatch after each event, creating distinct layering. Recently, after using ThatchZyme, plugs were pulled for inspection, and the findings were impressive: consistent and clean profile with an improved root system.
Lynwood Golf & Country Club, Pitt Town, New South Wales, Australia
Untreated control
“Following 11 flood events since 2020, substantial profile layering had developed in profiles. After just three applications, we are already observing significant improvement, with the layering breaking down and the profile visibly more consistent. Seeing this level of progress so quickly is very encouraging.“
Matthew Bailey, Lynwood Golf & Country Club
As more turf managers put ThatchZyme to the test, the early signs are clear: improved soil structure, deeper rooting, and healthier, more resilient turf. Backed by real-world success and measurable outcomes, Thatchzyme is fast becoming a key tool in modern turf management — offering a smarter, more sustainable way to manage organic matter and elevate surface performance.