January
The soil will be too wet and unsuitable for working on the square. Maintain any perimeter fencing as required and keep off the square. Machinery maintenance can be undertaken during this cold, snowy period.
February
Most likely the square will be too wet to carry out much work, however, dragbrushing should be a priority, especially if earthworm activity is significant. A light topping of the sward may be required, especially following the recent mild spell which may have encouraged a perennial ryegrass sward to produce some leaf growth.
Maintain the perimeter fencing if this is erected. Towards the end of the month it might be possible to start rolling, however, this will depend upon soil moisture content. Try and plan wicket usage for the coming season and the sequence of use. This way the centre wickets will be available for use during high profile games if required.
March
Rolling and consolidation of the square should be the priority for this month. Start with a relatively light roller, say 5 cwt, and gradually move up to a medium-heavy, say 30 cwt or so, one by the end of the month. The square should be regularly drag brushed and the height of cut should be reduced to about 18mm or so.
A light scarification may be possible if growth is reasonable, but be careful not to overdo this operation too early in the month. Check for any small undulations in the outfield and top-dress them out. Make sure the square is correctly set out with the corners being at exact right angles.
Now for the real stuff .............