Ground Tips - August

Continue to repair pitches as described in July program. Be mindful that, this time of the year, your cricket square will require copious watering, to avoid grass plant stress, which occurs when water loss from the leaves exceeds the rate of water intake through the roots. During pitch preparation ensure that the moisture penetrates well into the soil prior to any rolling.

It is important to prepare and organiseg in advance of the Autumn renovation programme. The correct Loam must be ordered bearing in mind that for Club standard pitches, a minimum of 25-30% of clay is required, ask your supplier about this. Seed needs to be ordered, preferably a 100% dwarf ryegrass mixture and the amount you will require is approx 3-4 kilos per pitch or even 5 if the grass coverage this season was poor. At the same time order a supply of Autumn/Winter fertiliser - at least one bag for autumn renovation and perhaps two more for applications during the winter months.

If the Club doesn't own a scarifying machine or vertical action spiker, make enquiries now from Hire companies, other Cricket Clubs or Golf Clubs as to their availability, as these machines are required to do the job properly and they will be in great demand.