The slit approach, typically for vigorous winter games such as rugby and soccer

Winter use of natural turf for sports requires the surface to remain tractively efficient throughout the time of year when, in Britain, weather conditions are far from favourable. Because temperatures are low the grass growth is minimal, and because rainfall much exceeds evaporation the shear strength of the turf is threatened by physical damage to the grass and excessive wetness in the soil. To withstand the severe wear that vigorous play with studded footwear can cause, the sward must enter the playing season thick at the base and deeply rooted. Damage to the grass will tend to accumulate until repair by regrowth becomes possible the following spring. When conditions are not ideal therefore, the need for damage limitation may require discretion in use. Of the things we can do to help, efficient soil drainage should be regarded as the top priority.