I bought a thatching rake, Packed dead grass had to go.

[Paper Roses]

I've Googled for the answer but can't find it. One side grips the thatch as you draw the rake to you. Fine. What is the other side for? Both sides do not seem to do the same thing.

It is like a lethal weapon but does a great job. I did not overdo it but still got a lot of the dead stuff out. Now when I water, it will sink in and help the live grass.

There are all kinds of instructions on-line about how to do the job but I cannot seem to find an explanation for the 2 sides.
Anyone know?

[amerikat]

1. Here's a video from this old house that explains your rake.

I was always curious about those rakes. Ya learn something everyday.

http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/video/0,,20052307,00.html

[Paper Roses]

2. Thanks for the link. Just what I needed to see.

The non-thatching side is for aerating the soil according to the video. I thought is was just a regular rake, and I suppose it could be. Today starts my job. I plan to do a small section at a time. Some of the dead or choked areas are about 10X10, others are smaller. One or 2 sections a day and I'll be done in no time. The rake itself looks like a lethal weapon. I never noticed if I could adjust mine.

Never thought to spread the dead grass on a tarp. I can then fold it up and off to the dump. No filling a bunch of barrels.