The scarifier test 2017

So that you can enjoy your lawn from its most beautiful side, the scarifier must not be forgotten during lawn care. In the trade you find different models, which differ clearly in the price, the achievement and the functionality. To make your purchase decision easier, we have collected important information for you.

The scarifier – comprehensibly described

A scarifier is required to ventilate a lawn. The name of the device was derived from the English language – vertical to cut. The purpose of scarifying is to remove mulch, moss and weeds, leaves and grass clippings between the lawns. Vertical spring steel knives penetrate approx. two to three millimetres deep into the uppermost soil layer. The rotation scrapes out the soil surface without damaging the deeper roots of the lawn. Weeds, on the other hand, are usually pulled out with roots and therefore no longer grow back. The lawn is also freed from moss and clover, which is difficult to do with other methods.

Tip:

The lawn should not have grown too high for the scarifier to reach the felted soil surface. If the lawn is too high (over 4 mm), the lawn must be mowed before the scarifier is used. A stem length between 2-4 mm is ideal for scarifying.

Functionality of the different scarifiers

The simplest and cheapest scarifiers are the manual scarifiers. The blades are on a long handle. Similar to a rake, these garden tools do the lawn justice manually. There are also models which have 2 wheels like hand mowers. Felts and weeds are pulled out. To do this work with a hand scarifier is not as easy as for example foliage to work it out together. The depth of entry and the resistance of grasses and weeds to the manual scarifier can make the use on larger lawns long and painful. The handling of the rake and the application of light pressure at the same time is another challenge to achieve an optimal result. If too little pressure is applied, not all weeds with roots will be affected. If too much pressure is applied, the lawn will also be pulled out, or the roots will be damaged. It is therefore particularly suitable for smaller lawns which are not covered with stubborn weeds. Frequently, matted lawn areas are left behind which require reuse.

For larger areas or to facilitate laborious work, scarifiers with motors are available in the trade. These facilitate the work enormously and also deliver better, more even results. In the case of motor-driven devices, there is a choice between electric and petrol engines, both of which have their advantages and disadvantages. Similar to a lawn mower, a motor-driven scarifier is pushed over the lawn. A motor drives the roller with the spring knives, which rake the ground by the rotation. The force required is reduced to pushing the device, although models with additional wheel drive are also available. These offer advantages especially for lawns on slopes. The working depth can usually be adjusted. Some models also have interchangeable rollers with different knives. This allows the devices to be better adapted to the requirements. The working width is usually between 30 and 50 cm. Some models have a catching bag or basket which catches the green waste immediately and does not simply leave it on the lawn. This means that there is no need to join forces afterwards. The purpose of scarifying is to To get green waste out of the lawn, so the green waste should not just lie on the lawn afterwards.

Making the right choice

The following aspects are important when choosing between electric and petrol engines. An electric scarifier is lighter than a petrol scarifier. It is therefore easier to push and, of course, easier to carry when it has to be transported, for example, or lifted into a shed for storage. In addition, the working noise is significantly quieter, which also benefits the neighbours. On the other hand, scarifying is not frequent during the year, so that the working noise is mostly negligible. Normal electric models naturally require a power connection and an extension cable adapted to the work surface at their place of use. Not every allotment garden, for example, has an electricity connection. Some users find it difficult to pull a cable behind them, especially when numerous shrubs and flowers are in the way. It has to be constantly redesigned in order not to get caught or to break off flowers. Running over the cable with the scarifier is an additional danger as the cable would be damaged and must be replaced.

Devices with battery operation dispense with the disadvantages of the power cable. However, the batteries have only a limited capacity and must then be recharged, this via a mains supply. Here it can be advantageous to buy several batteries at the same time, so that a smooth change can take place. This way the work does not have to be interrupted. The weight of battery-powered scarifiers is higher than that of electric scarifiers because the weight of the battery is added. Free of power connections and Recharge times of batteries are the gasoline scarifiers. Once filled with gasoline, which of course should be ready to hand, this device does its job everywhere. The weight of a gasoline-powered scarifier is higher than that of the electric version, which makes it suitable for operation on hard soils. They are also adjustable in height and usually have the possibility to change the rollers. On slopes a model with wheel drive should be preferred because of the weight. The noise level and the exhaust gases have a negative effect. They also do not function at the push of a button but, if no electric starter is installed, must be started with a pull-wire starter. Petrol engines are also more powerful, which favours them for more difficult tasks.

Info:

The ideal time for scarifying is between mid-April and mid-May. Before that, fertilize and mow at all costs!

Use scarifier accessories sensibly

Knives

If the scarifier is used regularly, the knives will show signs of wear over time. The knives become duller and no longer do what is necessary at work. Especially when there are many stones and roots on the grass, the knives are confronted with a real hard work, which cannot remain without traces. Plan a stock of knives so that you don’t have to worry about it for the time being. Blunt knives are clearly noticeable. The work is no longer easy and the result of scarifying is no longer sufficient. If you have bought a replacement knife, you no longer have to interrupt your work in anger. Changing knives isn’t difficult.

The catching bag

So that your lawn can finally “breathe freely” again, scarifying is not sufficient as a sole measure. What’s important is that after that. Green waste lying loosely on the surface to be removed. Not removed, keep oxygen and sunlight away from the lawn! Fatal, because the lack of oxygen and light promote the rebuilding of moss. A catching bag, also called a grass catching bag, is very helpful here. It is a great relief if the green waste ends up directly in the catching bag. Especially on large areas, manual raking becomes a very tedious activity. Directly from the catching bag, the waste is disposed of on the compost or in the organic bin. This saves a lot of time for other things. The collecting bag must be selected to match the scarifier.

The rake

If a scarifier does not have a grass bag, the remains of grass, moss and other organic remains remain on the lawn. Just leaving everything on the lawn does not work of course. Therefore, you need a calculation for an important work step. All green waste can be easily removed with a practical rake. However, this is only problemfree if the lawn is small. If, on the other hand, the area is large, this work quickly turns into tedious gardening. When buying the scarifier, the rake should be packed into the shopping cart so that you can get started right away. In the end, all you have to do is dispose of the green waste in an environmentally friendly manner.

Easily avoid mistakes

In principle, when used correctly, no gross errors occur when scarifying with a high-quality device. Nevertheless, there is one or the other source of error which would not provide a better lawn quality. However, if you are completely inexperienced, tips will help to avoid mistakes. These are important because damage cannot always be repaired quickly. With our tips, scarifying will not have a negative effect.

– Too high lawn does not allow the scarifier blades to penetrate deep enough into the to invade the earth.
– Areas that are too often scarified suffer – a maximum of twice a year is recommended.
– Do not use the scarifier too excessively in the same place, as this would result in bare surfaces. Lawn growth also suffers as a result.
– Always scarify in one direction so that there are no untreated areas.
– Clean the unit after use.

The right lawn care afterwards

For the lawn, scarifying is an enormous strain. That’s why he’s asking for special care. At first glance, the green looks bad, but that’s perfectly normal. After this exhausting treatment, you must not walk over the lawn at first. Allow him a period of rest. Strong temperatures and strong solar radiation have a negative effect in this phase. In both cases the garden hose must now be used. It is now ideal to spread new grass seeds. Don’t forget to thoroughly water the lawn afterwards.

Care and cleaning of equipment

Even a hand scarifier should not simply be put away uncleaned after work is done. They would like to enjoy their equipment and tools for a long time and be able to rely on their operational readiness. Therefore soil and mud as well as root remains should be completely removed from the blades. Cleaning is best when the soil has already dried. Then it will simply flake off during processing with a coarse root brush. A cloth removes the other dirt particles. Do not forget the handles or the handle. Dust combined with hand perspiration can quickly form a dirty crust. The storage location of all garden tools should be dry. This applies especially to electrical appliances of any kind.

In the case of motor-driven scarifiers, the knives, the ventilation slots and the catch container must be cleaned, or to empty it. Petrol engines require further maintenance over time. The oil level must be checked before each use to avoid engine damage. Even with low oil consumption, engine oil can leak due to leaks or incorrect storage of the unit. The fuel lines and the air filter must be checked once a year. They may need to be cleaned or replaced.

Some models have spark plugs, which can get dirty and wear out. Most of the time they attract attention due to starting difficulties. The smell of petrol from the exhaust or discoloured exhaust gases can also be caused by defective spark plugs or poorly adjusted carburettors. In an emergency, please always go to a gardening equipment workshop. Gasoline that gets onto the paint surfaces of the gasoline scarifier must be wiped off directly with a cloth. Petrol attacks paintwork and destroys rust protection. Petrol-powered devices must always be stored in a leak-proof manner. The same applies, of course, to the petrol supply in canisters. The risk of explosion and fire must also be taken into account. For storage it is recommended to use well ventilated and lockable rooms.

Info:

Electric garden tools, if they do not have water protection, may only be used in dry weather.

Rent or buy?

It is possible to buy or rent a scarifier. If it is perhaps a one-time use, you can think about renting. However, if you need the gardening tool several times, it is certainly worth buying it. We’ll help you decide more easily.

The purchase advantages
If the scarifier is needed several times a year, a purchase will certainly be the right decision. In principle, the size of the surface to be machined plays a role in the decision. The purchase is recommended especially for larger areas. Not always the weather plays as requested. Being able to scarify on beautiful days is not a matter of course with a borrowed device. Often on these days all devices are already rented, which is of course annoying. It is very practical when your own scarifier is waiting in the garage only for its use. Your own device definitely makes you more independent.

You can buy your own device in a specialist shop or online at a dealer. Very good offers can be found on the Internet in particular. There is a very large selection here, as well as important information on each model. It’s worth comparing, because you benefit from special prices. Evaluations by other buyers also make the decision easier. When buying on the Internet, you can save time, travel costs and money. In contrast to the specialist trade, you will always find the latest models on the Internet. So you won’t fall for a so-called shopkeeper, who a salesman might like to sell.

The purchasing disadvantages
With your own scarifying, it is usually financially impossible to constantly buy the latest models. Who attaches great importance to always be on the newest conditions, will perhaps consider the purchase somewhat longer. It’s annoying when the new models know how to beat their own model by lengths. Purchased devices have to be maintained and repaired on their own, which of course entails costs.

The rental advantages
The fees are to be called mostly small, which saves the own purse. Rents are often made in DIY stores. An ideal way for manufacturers to advertise. This is why the latest equipment is often available. You don’t even have to pay for maintenance and repair, which is of course very practical. Storage space for the scarifier may also be dispensed with.

The rental disadvantages
The Disadvantages clearly outweigh the advantages. Just the effort of booking, picking up and returning is annoying. You do not always receive a device on time, because the rush of other tenants is large. Every garden owner wants to use the scarifier in autumn and spring. Long waiting times must be expected quickly, which can sometimes be very annoying. If a device is borrowed several times over the years, the price can often not justify a rent compared to the purchase. And then there’s the weather! Heavy rain quickly puts a stop to the bill, so the rental date can be completely inappropriate.

The scarifier trends

The manufacturers of gardening tools are trying to meet the growing demands of customers. Thus existing properties can be improved. Completely new ideas enrich the market.

For example, the silencers in petrol scarifiers are becoming increasingly sophisticated in order to reduce noise pollution. This is not only more pleasant for the user, but also extends the application possibilities and operating times when the neighbour or the surroundings no longer feel disturbed. By eliminating noise nuisance with particularly quiet devices, it is theoretically possible to work with them at all times.

A further topic for progress are the batteries of the battery-operated devices. New technologies significantly reduce charging time, so less time is lost in gardening. At the same time, weight and capacity are improved, making the equipment lighter and longer lasting. The service life and number of charge cycles have also been significantly increased. Quiet electrical appliances often allowed the use too early or late hours. However, then it is mostly still not bright. Some manufacturers take this problem into account by extending the working range of the Knife lights. Energy-saving and bright light-emitting diodes make this possible. Thus, even in poor lighting conditions, you can see exactly where you are going with the device. The flower beds thank it. Felted areas can now no longer be overlooked, which saves having to edit the lawn again.

The range of applications of modern scarifiers has also been extended. So there are lawn mowers, which can also scarify. This means that only the purchase of a device is required, which also saves space during storage. These combination units are available in different sizes – with electric and petrol engines.

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