Casting chaos: The hidden relationship between worms and turf

Worm casting remains one of the most frustrating and persistent challenges in UK turf management.  With chemical control no longer an option, how can we better manage and reduce its impact?  Stuart Yarwood MG of DLF Seeds explores the relationship between grass species, soil conditions and worm activity, drawing on years of practical observation across a wide range of swards and environments.  Not all grasses create the same conditions for worm activity. Some swards consistently experience higher levels of casting, while others remain significantly less affected. So what is driving that difference?  We will examine the role of species and cultivar selection, alongside factors such as sward density, organic matter, moisture and plant breeding, to better understand what is happening below the surface.  By shifting the focus towards cultural and environmental management, this session demonstrates how grass selection and sward structure can be used as part of a long term strategy to discourage casting and improve playing quality.

Learning outcomes

• A clearer understanding of how grass choice and management influence worm activity
• The role of species and cultivar selection
• Develop a long term strategy to discourage casting and improve playing quality