214 FARM GRASSES OF THE UNITED STATES 



and killed. This is especially true on terraces and 

 banks where the earth is more easily disturbed, and 

 where the sun's heat falls more vertically at times. 

 It is better to water heavilj^ soaking the ground 

 to a depth of a foot or two, than to apply water in 

 small amounts and more frequently. On all but the 

 smallest plats a sprinkler of the fountain or revolving 

 type can be advantageously used. These save a great 

 deal of tinie and labor in applying the water, but care 

 must be taken that corners and other small spaces are 

 not left without water. 



ROLLING 



Next to the mower the roller is a most important 

 implement. It should be used in early spring to firm 

 the sward after the heaving of the soil due to freezing 

 and thawing in winter. After heavy rains during 

 summer and autumn, and on young swards as soon as 

 they can bear it, the roller should be used. Those 

 made in two or more sections are preferred, because 

 they turn with less injury to the soil and sward. The 

 most good will be done by the roller weighing at least 

 fifteen pounds to the inch of length. One is now for 

 sale which may be increased in weight at will by fill- 

 ing a hollow compartment with sand or water. 



FERTILIZING OR TOP-DRESSING 



No matter how thorough the preparation, the lawn 

 will eventually demand a new supply of food. This 

 must be given in the form of natural or artificial fer- 

 tilizer. Well-rotted barnyard manure is unexcelled 

 for this purpose. It may be applied in the fall and 



