Module 6:

6.2 Turf problems and controls

1   Secondary Pests

The secondary pests will typically be birds, mammals and nematodes.

2   Birds

These are a pest primarily due to the pecking action of the birds either in search of food, in the form of grubs of leatherjackets or chafer grubs; or in disturbing a sward surface where thatch is present, using this as a source of lining for their nests.

So, a significant reduction in surface evenness and presentation can arise from bird damage.

Birds will also peck for grass seed at renovation time and can often literally clean up a surface of the grass seed. However, sward damage is often minimal because seeds will only be buried to a shallow depth, often being covered by just a few millimetres of top-dressing, as well as being present on the surface as well.

3   Mammals

These might typically be badgers in search of grubs, rabbits making small surface holes in the ground, or moles burrowing through the soil creating channels.

Severe damage can occur, with turf being ripped up by badgers, mole channels cause significant surface unevenness, and significant shallow, exposed, holes or scrapes, being dug by rabbits can arise where these pests are persistent.

The risk of twisted ankles can be significant where rabbit scrapes, and especially mole runs, are present on a pitch. Getting approved mole or rabbit control specialists will often be required where damage is excessive.

4   Nematodes

These will generally only be a problem on higher sand profile pitches, where the enemies (or antagonists) of the nematodes are scarce within the rootzone.

This allows the nematodes to more freely attack grass plants, nibbling away at roots and basal parts of plants making them easier to be kicked out, along with sward thinning and yellowing. These pests are very small (microscopic in size), also being called eelworms or similar, are transparent and are present throughout all soil types.

The likelihood of extensive pest damage over an entire pitch is low, however, the likelihood of damage being more localised or being more of a nuisance factor could be quite high. Quite often the seriousness of pest attack is overplayed, leading to unnecessary worry and expense. Routine repairs or adjustments to maintenance programmes can usually quite readily rectify the problem and any subsequent damage that has been caused. Obviously if an extensive attack is encountered then this can be most concerning and more intensive controls and restoration work will be needed to return the pitch to a desirable condition.