communication with both the home and away team managers usually ensures the pitch is protected from unnecessary wear and tear
Dean controls where teams are able to warm up. Good
rather than success, and was determined to beat that in the 2009 growing season. By understanding the feeding regimes, along with keeping moisture levels at an optimum to promote growth without encouraging any moss/algae attacks, the net result has seen root growth to 200mm. It’s a fantastic achievement and one that, he believes, will aid recovery after wear and help the sward through the winter months.
Dean has enlisted the services of Jonathan Smith, of Geo Turf Consulting Ltd., to help carry out independent testing of the pitch and give advice when needed. Jonathan carries out a number of tests to help monitor pitch performance, including traction, hardness and water infiltration rates. Aeration is a key maintenance task in these areas, but Dean has to ensure that he doesn’t overdo it and make the pitch too soft. Tests are performed several times a year, using a 2.25kg clegg hammer, to monitor pitch hardness. Tests carried out in October saw one
hundred hardness values taken across the pitch, with the lowest being recorded at 77gravities and the highest at 100 gravities, resulting in an average of 88 gravities. The preferred range of values for rugby is between 65-100 gravities, so Dean is pleased with the results. He has also recorded hardness values
before and after using the SISIS Aeraid, with results showing a 14% reduction in pitch hardness. Proof, he concludes, that effective aeration reduces compaction. Infiltration rates, measured with a double ring infiltrometer, resulted in readings of 128, 156, 164, 216 and 226 which were, on average, 30mm more than the specified 150mm per hour rate. Match preparation is focussed on
presentation, with the pitch being double cut using the G860s, usually the day before and on the morning of the match. The pitch is watered to maintain playability and stability, but weather conditions will dictate the use of the irrigation system. The pitch is overmarked using string lines.
WINTER SPORTS FIELDS
25
● Renovation or new pitch work ● Fast establishment and dense, hard wearing sward
● Good winter greenness ● High disease resistance ● Now contains Milan!
T
Camp Road, Witham St Hughs, Lincoln, LN6 9TW
Tel: 01522 861300
amenity@limagrain.co.uk www.limagrain.co.uk/mm
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