Harrowing and Rolling

The harrow is used to drag out thatch (dead grass) and weak growth from the sward, agitate the soil surface, break up clods of earth and generally level out any unsightly poaching (damage caused by hooves).

It is important to harrow because it allows air and light to get to the base of the grass, which encourages healthy, dense grass growth. Harrowing in the Spring uproots seedling weeds and creates space for healthy grass to grow. It can also be used to promote grass seed contact with the ground after over-seeding.

Rolling also helps to level the ground and repair some of the damage caused by hooves (poaching). The crushing effect of the roller on the grass also helps encourage the spreading of the plant thus helping to promote spring growth.

Harrowing and rolling can help improve the sward density, reducing the opportunity for undesirable weeds to invade pasture.

However, rolling should not be overdone (especially on clay soils) as this can lead to soil compaction, inhibited drainage, increased surface run-off and reduced grass growth. The roller that we use is water ballast and as such the weight can be adjusted to suit the ground maximizing its effect while minimizing any potential damage.