ThatchZyme FAQ
Phil Dwyer, VP Sales & Marketing • June 17, 2025
  • How is ThatchZyme different from all the other products claiming to reduce thatch?

    ThatchZyme is the first enzyme-based spray proven in the field to actively break down thatch and organic matter. Unlike microbial products, which rely on live organisms to survive and perform in unpredictable soil conditions, ThatchZyme delivers a reliable, measurable dose of active enzyme every time you spray.

  • What’s in ThatchZyme?

    ThatchZyme is powered by Laccase, a specialized enzyme that breaks down lignin. the tough, decay-resistant material that binds thatch together. Laccase works by opening up the thatch structure, making it easier for natural microbial activity to complete the decomposition cycle. The result: less mechanical disruption, improved playing conditions, and a more efficient thatch management program.

  • Is there any academic research on ThatchZyme?

    Yes. Laccase has been the subject of over a decade of academic and applied research confirming its role in lignin and thatch degradation.

  • Has ThatchZyme been field tested?

    Extensively. It has been tested across a variety of turfgrass systems to confirm both safety and effectiveness for turf managers. See our data here.

  • Is ThatchZyme a live biological product?

    No. ThatchZyme is not a live organism. Microbes are used during production to create and concentrate the Laccase enzyme. By formulating only the active enzyme, ThatchZyme delivers precise, predictable results without the variability of live biology.

  • What if ThatchZyme dries on the leaf surface? Do I need to water it in immediately?

    No problem, drying will not affect ThatchZyme after it’s been sprayed, just water it into the thatch zone when you can before the next mowing. 

  • How often should I apply ThatchZyme?

    ThatchZyme works in a monthly program and you will want to apply it for three months, it can be applied more frequently (bi-weekly) and rates/intervals can vary based on whether one is managing thatch ongoing or trying to correct a large thatch layer issue. 

  • Can I tank mix ThatchZyme with other products?

    Yes. ThatchZyme is compatible with most fertilizers, surfactants, and pesticides commonly used in turf management. As with any tank mix, we recommend performing a standard jar test to confirm compatibility before full-scale application.

  • Is there any phytotoxicity risk?

    None that we’ve seen up to 4x our 1qt/A rate.

  • Are there seasonal limitations to using ThatchZyme?

    The laccase enzyme will be active at any temperature above freezing and its activity increases with higher temperatures, as does the surrounding microbial activity.

  • How can I tell if ThatchZyme is working?

    Monitor changes in thatch thickness over time using core samples or profile measurements. Regular organic matter (OM%) soil testing is a key tool for tracking progress and should be used alongside visual assessments of the soil profile.

By Phil Dwyer, VP Sales & Marketing July 15, 2025
As a company born from and dedicated to scientific product research, ZymeCo has embarked upon our 2025 field season again working with top University Turfgrass Research programs.
By 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.
Combat Algal Crust with AlgaeZyme
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing May 28, 2025
If you're managing turfgrass, you know how algal crusts aren't just unsightly—they are a real barrier to healthy turf.
TillZyme
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing May 11, 2025
By facilitating faster residue breakdown, TillZyme aids in the rapid release of nutrients back into the soil, supporting the formation of stable organic matter and enhancing overall soil fertility.​
By Golf Course Industry May 8, 2025
Dr. Phil Dwyer joins Superintendent Radio Network to discuss a less invasive way of handling an issue that might be impacting your course’s playing surfaces.
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing May 7, 2025
ThatchZyme is an innovative, enzyme-based turf management product designed to address the persistent issue of thatch accumulation on golf courses and other high-maintenance turf areas.
By Jenny Phillips, Director of Marketing April 25, 2025
ZymeCO™ is pleased to offer a new sustainable and highly bio-available plant derived fulvic acid: FulviZyme.
By Jennifer Phillips, Director of Marketing April 17, 2025
We’re excited to announce a new chapter in our journey: Colorado Biofactory is now ZymeCO. This change isn’t just about a name—it marks the evolution of our vision and our commitment to redefining what’s possible through enzyme technology.
By Phil Dwyer, VP of Sales and Marketing April 8, 2025
ThatchZyme delivers the only sprayable active enzyme proven to manage turfgrass thatch. It works for you by targeting the hard to degrade parts of thatch and accelerating its breakdown.
By Golf Course Industry March 17, 2025
Miss the GCI Spring Solution Madness? Phil Dwyer discusses how ThatchZyme simplifies thatch management with an easy, sprayable solution. Powered by our proven laccase technology, it revolutionizes organic matter management with less labor and minimal disruption. Learn more here.