scarify

(horticulture) To remove thatch (build-up of organic matter on the soil) from a lawn, to dethatch.

(horticulture) To damage the testa (seed coat) of a seed by cutting, scraping, chemicals, hot water, or fire to allow permeation of water and faster germination.

To break up, loosen, or roughen the surface of a field or road or a hard surface.

To scratch, etch, burn, or cut designs into one's skin as a form of body modification.

To harrow the feelings.

(obsolete or nonstandard) To scar.

(obsolete or nonstandard) Denude, or lay waste to.