To scarify means to aggressively scratch or cut into a surface. In turf management, it involves using metal blades to rip out thatch and moss from a lawn, allowing air and water to reach the soil. In seed propagation, it refers to physically or chemically nicking the hard, impermeable outer coat of a seed so moisture can enter and trigger germination. Both processes intentionally inflict controlled damage to stimulate healthy growth.
Heard on the job
We need to scarify the pasture this afternoon to break up that crust and get the overseeding to take.