Jarrett Kramer, Superintendent of Congressional Country Club, speaks about his success with using ThatchZyme

Phil Dwyer, VP Sales & Marketing • June 3, 2025

Jarrett Kramer, Blue Course Superintendent (formerly Gold Course Super.) at the prestigious Congressional Country Club located in Bethesda, MD has firsthand experience with ThatchZyme trials. His insights highlight practical, results-driven use of the product in real-world conditions.

How did you first trial ThatchZyme?

“Our first trial was like any other trial, unsure of what to expect. We applied it to tee boxes on two holes that sit right next to each other, that way we had the same environment for the trial and the control. We have been working on reducing organic matter in our tee boxes as much has built up over the years. We did the trial starting in early spring of 2023 and continued it through the summer. Our goal was to reduce organic content in the profile.”

How did you measure thatch/OM changes, were there any other related turfgrass responses observed?

“We measured the organic content through the OM 246 testing method. That way we had hard data that would confirm or deny our observations. We also would take photos of the profile every two weeks side by side of each hole to confirm. We did observe more uniformity when the tees would dry down throughout the season. We would see inconsistent patterns before using the product. We also felt the tees we used the product on held up better to foot traffic.”

Overall, how did the product perform per your goals/expectations?

“The product met our expectations, our goal was to reduce organic content in the profile for better performing tee boxes. We achieved that with observations and data to support that.”

What other insights or recommendations would you share with fellow turfgrass managers considering using ThatchZyme?

“Just try the product, there will be no negative result from utilizing this tool. Set a reasonable objective to maintain in managing your organic matter and what you desire. At the end of the day it is what you desire as the Superintendent, this will supplement your practices in achieving your objective when higher organic levels are present. You will have healthier and stronger playing surfaces.”

The results of the Congressional Country Club trial information can be viewed on pages 6-10 here.

For more information on ThatchZyme, visit: www.zymecompany.com/thatchzyme.com

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