When it comes to looking after an area of grass, the machines you use really do matter. Grassland can mean a 10ft by 10ft lawn space of acres of land, the principle is the same, to level the space, encourage grass growth and having all-round, better looking, healthier grass sward. There are 3 key points when improving an area of grassland, not all are done in this order and that is dependent on the need of the land.

Usually you would use a set of chain harrows for collecting and removing dead grass from the surface, and the levelling bar flattens mole hills and spreads out manure. It allows better air flow around the topsoil as well as better drainage and also helps reduce fungi and bacteria with better sunlight.

You would want to harrow in spring, where the ground is not frozen but is also not too wet, therefore not churning up the ground. If the ground is too dry it will not be effective.
You can then chose to use an Aerator, the Aerator punctures holes into the top 100mm of the soil, allowing oxygen to get to grass roots and any additional moisture to filter back into the soil. The process also slices through the root carpet to encourage new grass growth. Aerating should be done when the ground is still relatively soft and before new grass starts growing.

Some farmers may choose to Roll before Aerating as rolling can compact the soil back down, though the reason for Rolling is the same. Rolling helps leave smoother soil, and can be more visually appealing as well as safer to walk/run/ride over, depending on the use. It also helps with rock distribution and repairs water damage. The ideal time to roll is when the tractor wheels should just leave a mark which will then be removed by the roller.
Harrowing, Rolling and Aerating do not need to be done immediately after the other, though if the conditions are right, it is possible.

We stock a range of Chain Harrows, Aerators and Rollers here, for all range of grassland management. Here are a selection of our stock.

Ritchie Chain Harrows, available in 2m, 4m (manual or hydraulic folding) & 6m hydraulic folding, galvanised frame & levelling bar.

Ritchie 3m Aerator, Boron steel blades 12mm x 360mm long, low maintenance / low horse power required. Incorporated weight tray fitted.

Fleming 12ft End Tow Roller, pin locked into position, swap between transport and work with swing draw bar, add water for extra weight.

Fleming 8ft Lifting Roller, performance of up to 12-14 acres per hour, Scraper blade fitted as standard, hydraulic lift from the cab.

Watson 12ft Rotating End Tow Roller, rotate the roller from inside the cab, auto locking mechanism 36” diameter barrel.

Watson 8ft Tandem Roller, heavy duty front & rear tandem, easy change over from transport, single roller position, 30” diameter barrel.

SMALL HOLDER/SMALLER AERATORS AND HARROWS ALSO AVAILABLE FROM STOCK