Ground Tips - October

If the end of season work was carried out in September, by the middle of October there should be a good showing of new grasses.

If there are some weak areas on the square, overseed these areas to ensure good grass cover for next year.

When the new grass has attained the height of approximately 1½ inches, tip the grass with preferably a rotary mower with a collection box and reduce the height to 1 inch. If possible, retain this height throughout the Winter.

If deep aeration has not been completed, carry it out by the end of this month or the beginning of November, when there is sufficient moisture in the soil to ensure maximum penetration. Remember that the aeration should be carried out with vertical action spiker with 4-inch long pencil tines at 2-inch centres.

If there is excessive worm activity on the square, treat immediately, otherwise the casts will create a muddy mess which are breeding grounds for disease and weeds. This operation should be carried out by a qualified person.

Throughout the winter months, the square should be brushed as often as possible to disperse any worm casts and fungal spores if present. If there is sign of disease at any time then this should be treated by a qualified operator immediately.

Now is a good time to ensure that the sightscreens are securely put away to avoid damage form the winter winds, and start looking at the machinery for routine maintenance.