Scarification What is Scarification? Scarification is the use of a professional petrol driven scarifier to remove surface thatch and dead organic refuse. Why get rid of thatch? 1. During the summer this thatch layer works like a thatched roof and keeps out most of the water it receives 2. Conversely, in the winter it holds the water like a sponge creating the environment moss loves to grow in! 3. This layer builds up as part of the normal life cycle of grass 4. Therefore Scarification is a vital part of your lawn care service