Harrowing and rolling

Harrowing and rolling are traditionally carried out in the spring to prepare the ground for the forth-coming growing season.

Harrowing rakes the ground, drags out weak growth and dead matter which allows air and light to penetrate the grass cover encouraging healthy spring growth.  In addition to this harrowing levels out any unsightly poaching (damage caused by hooves) in gateways, corners and around feeding areas after the winter's grazing.

Rolling will also level out unevenness caused by poaching and will firm up the ground therefore reducing further hoof damage. Crushing the grass crowns also encourages the spreading of the plant and therefore maximises spring growth.