What appearance does a lawn with significant thatch typically exhibit?

A lawn with significant thatch typically exhibits a dark and patchy appearance. Thatch is a layer of dead grass, roots, and organic matter that accumulates on the soil surface. When thatch builds up excessively, it leads to uneven water and nutrient distribution in the soil. This can cause specific areas of the lawn to become stressed or unhealthy, resulting in dark patches where the grass may be struggling to thrive. The patches indicate that the lawn is likely suffering from insufficient aeration and poor drainage, which prevents the grassroots from accessing essential resources.

In contrast, other lawn appearances mentioned would not accurately describe the condition created by high thatch levels. A thin and sparse lawn generally suggests other issues, such as poor soil quality or inadequate sunlight. A soft and lush lawn would indicate a healthy grass cover that is receiving sufficient nutrients and water, which is typically not the case with excessive thatch. Finally, a wet and muddy lawn may point to drainage problems or overwatering rather than directly to thatch. Therefore, the dark and patchy look is a telltale sign of too much thatch, showcasing the stress that can occur to the grass in those conditions.