64 THE COMPLETE GARDEN 



stoloniferous growth. The harrow should be permitted to cut this 

 ground to a considerable depth, so as to encourage new root growth as 

 well as a deeper root growth. Probably the average depth which the 

 harrow cuts approximates from two to four inches. The ideal harrow 

 for this purpose is known as the alfalfa renovator which is used for 

 the purpose of cutting a deep furrow into the soil rather than 

 disturbing the soil. 



If the lawn area is composed of a combination of Bermuda grass 

 and Italian rye, or of a southern mixture of northern grass seed, it 

 should be thoroughly soaked with water as often as once every two days. 

 Superficial watering under conditions of hot sun and dry climate is 

 more injurious to the southern lawn than a similar watering would be 

 to a northern lawn. Where an excellent lawn turf is desired from 

 November to April, it is much preferable to top dress the Bermuda 

 grass foundation with a thin coating of muck, or rich soil, and to seed 

 each fall with Italian rye as a filler. If a lawn of northern grasses is to be 

 maintained from November to April, experience to date has taught us 

 that the most practical method is that of reseeding the entire lawn 

 area during the middle or latter part of October, or early November, 

 rather than to expend the labour necessary to maintain a turf during 

 the hot summer months when it is not used. 



