1938-39

.1.
594
RECREATION GROUNDS
Basic slag, superphosphate, bone meal, and other phosphatic and
potassic fertilisers should not be used, as they are liable to force
a robust growth of clover. " Kainit " has a somewhat similar action.
Nitrate of soda, dry blood, " Guano," etc., have the disadvantage
of encouraging the growth of stronger grasses. They are better
suited for agricultural purposes, and should not be used on recreation
grounds unless under the direction of an expert.
Neutral sulphate of ammonia is sometimes used with good effect
when grass needs a quick-acting stimulant. .A dressing of compost,
to provide the grasses with" humus, is advisable after forcing
artificials have been used.
WORM CASTS
It is almost impossible to cultivate turf in a clean and healthy
manner if the surface is polluted with worm casts.
In the case of a large Recreation Ground, it becomes a very
big problem, as the eradication of worms over a large area
is
a
costly procedure if carried out by the ground staff. Many firms
.specialise in this class of work, and have the necessary machinery
and plant.
If it is impracticable to consider such a proposition, then before
the ground
.
is mowed or rolled it should be bush-harrowed in
various directions to break up and distribute the worm casts. This
work, of course, must be done when the worm casts have sufficiently
dried out to permit of harrowing operations being carried out
successfully.
On Cricket Tables, Tennis Courts, Bowling Greens, -and Golf
Greens the work can easily be carried out by the ground staff.
A reliable firm's worm-killer should be used according to direc-
tions accompanying same. The best results are achieved if the
ground is left unrolled for several days to allow the worms to
work actively. Select a mild day, when the earth is moist—muggy
weather is best.
All preparations of worm-killer should be washed in thoroughly.
Some bring the worms to the surface when they die, others bring
them to the surface alive, when they must be swept up and removed.
To prevent failure, try out a, small quantity on, say, a square
yard, to make sure that the worms are working near the surface.
If the preparation does not touch them, its purpose fails. The best
time to destroy worms is during the breeding season, August to
December, and then from March to May.
The constituents of most makes of worm killer are a valuable
plant food, so that its application really fulfils a two fold purpose.
WATERING RECREATION GROUNDS
It is not always practicable to water the whole area of Recreation
Grounds during prolonged droughts, but there are areas, such as
Cricket Tables, Tennis Courts, etc., which must be maintained in a
normal condition.
If the roots of grasses are allowed to dry out, the turf naturally
suffers, although it may not show immediate signs. If the turf is
il