After verticutting, how should the lawn be cleaned?

• A. Thoroughly cleaning the lawn by raking or vacuuming
• B. Mow only
• C. Water deeply
• D. Apply fertilizer

Answer: (A)

Verticutting opens up the turf to remove dead material and thatch, leaving behind loosened debris and soil plugs. Cleaning with a rake or a lawn vacuum physically removes that material, which is crucial to prevent it from smothering the new growth and to reduce disease risk. A thorough cleanup also helps air, light, and moisture reach the crowns and encourages quicker recovery. Mowing alone won’t remove the loosened debris, watering deeply won’t clear it, and applying fertilizer won’t clean up the residue that can block recovery.