Days of work go into preparing the green for winter. First the green is cut several different ways and then verti cut and deep scarified at least 6 times different ways across the green from corner to corner. After all the grass cuttings have been removed it is time to spike the green all over( see picture). Using a Sisis Dart aerator, the green keeper is slit tining the green to a depth of approximately 4 inches using flat type tines with knife like edges. Using this type of tine will, improve drainage, reduce compaction and thatch build up, it will also encourage strong grass roots by pruning them. Slit tining the green will take the best part of a day, after which the green will be allowed to settle for a day or 2 before going over the green with another type of aerator. This aerator is used to place thousands of tiny insertions to a depth of approximately 10mm which will aid the germination of the grass seed when over seeding the green. Finally, those areas showing signs of greater stress, mainly around the green edges will be top dressed to further assist seed germination. All this work, together with a warm Autumn will help the green to recover from the rigours and pressures of the extreme summer weather and an extensive bowling season. Carrying out this essential maintenance now will pay dividends next spring. Even though the green has now been decommissioned, work to maintain the green will go on through the winter. Sweeping the green every day to reduce disease, mowing once a month, spiking the green monthly with the Sisis aerator fitted with pencil tines and spraying when necessary to eradicate moss build up.

Bunny Warwick, Shanklin Bowling Club’s green keeper carrying out essential autumn green maintenance.