Pro Landscaper August 2014

Concept to Delivery

August 2014

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

LET’S HEAR IT FROM

PATRICIA FOX

RESIN BOUND

SURFACING

IMPROVE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

LIFE/STYLE

ANN-MARIE POWELL

ROBERT CHARLES LANDSCAPES

SPIRA-LIGHT COVER FINAL.indd 1

16/07/2014 14:25

ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 256

20/05/2014 16:33

WELCOME

Concept to Delivery DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

August 2014 | Volume 4, Issue 8

HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

August 2014

LET’S HEAR IT FROM

PATRICIA FOX

RESIN BOUND

SURFACING

Welcome to August 2014

IMPROVE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

LIFE/STYLE

ANN-MARIE POWELL

ROBERT CHARLES LAN DSCAPES

SPIRA-LIGHT COVER FINAL.indd

1

16/07/2014 14:25

Welcome to the height of summer – August. July was an eventful month, of course RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show and RHS Tatton Flower Show were very successful events; we are very proud of all the designers and landscapers who delivered yet again with some amazing show gardens and trade stands, well done to you all.

We attend many industry events and awards,

ALL ENQUIRIES Tel: 01903 777 570 Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA EDITORIAL editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk Director – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 579 Deputy Editor – Rose Hales rose.hales@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 578

and in July we were invited to the PPA Awards, which awards excellence in publishing and digital media. We didn’t enter for any awards on offer, but attending such events keeps us in the loop of what is going on in publishing and how to keep up to date (and hopefully even get ahead) of the game.

The most popular news story on our website this month was about the £34.5m Lottery investment in 13 of the UK’s public parks. The funding followed the publication of the HLF’s report in June which revealed the UK’s public parks are at serious risk of decline unless innovative new ways of funding and maintaining them are found. Public parks and how we use them is also featured in two of our regular columns this month, Phil Jones and Andrew Wilson each take a look at what can be done to make the best use of them.

ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 588 Account Manager – Luke Chaplin luke.chaplin@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 584 Sales Executive – Laura Harris laura.harris@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 589 Horticulture Careers – Ellie Downes ellie.downes@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 587

Equipment Editor – Joe Wilkinson joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 577

Accounts Assistant – Lisa Woollard accounts@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570

Reporter – Alex Farnham alex.farnham@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 573

Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 589

EDITORIAL ADVISORY PANEL Mark Gregory Chairman of APL and Landform Consultants Sam Hassall LandPRO Ltd Russell Eales Lawn care expert Karl Harrison Decking expert David Dodd Hard landscaping expert

MARKETING AND CIRCULATION Tel:01903 777571

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Leader.indd 3

Our parent company, Eljays44 Ltd, also took part in National Plants at Work Week in July and designed and implemented a pop-up office to educate and inform local businesses about the benefits of plants in the workplace. See our news report on page six.

If you didn’t get to Hampton Court, you can see our ‘Out and About’ pages from the show, and also Alex Noble, designer of The One Show garden talks about her experience at Hampton.

We also got the chance to visit Pat Fox at her design studio in Hertfordshire, where she told us about her journey into garden design and her hopes and plans for the future of the business. All this plus lots more should give you a good read until September…

@jimeljays

Design – Kara Thomas Olivia White

Pro Landscaper is proud to be an affiliate member of BALI

Printed by Pensord Press Ltd, Gwent, UK Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd – Connecting Horticulture Pro Landscaper’s content is available for licensing overseas. Contact jamie.wilkinson@ eljays44.com The Association of

Pro Landscaper is published 12 times per year by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2014 subscription price is £95.00.

Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA, UK. Articles and information contained in this publication are the copyright of Eljays44 Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publishers. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss of, or damage to, uncommissioned photographs or manuscripts.

@lisaeljays

Professional Landscapers

Pro Landscaper is proud to be an associate member of The APL

MANAGEMENT Managing Director Jim Wilkinson Director Lisa Wilkinson Business Development Manager Jamie Wilkinson

Subscription enquiries lewis.dan@eljays44.com

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

3

17/07/2014 09:25

CONTENTS

August 2014 6

News Shed Round up of industry news

10 News Extra An update from the Ethical Trading Initiative and its work in the landscaping sector

12 Out & About

12

Pictures from this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

15 Association News The SGD reveal the shortlist of their Product of the Year; efig disclose the winning Office Plant of the Year; the RHS look into events happening at their gardens over the next few months; BALI’s National AGM and Pavilion at Ecobuild; and the APL celebrate a strong Hampton Court show for members

Concept to Delivery

August 2014

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

LET’S HEAR IT FROM

PATRICIA FOX

RESIN BOUND

SURFACING

IMPROVE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY

LIFE/STYLE

TECHNICAL

ANN-MARIE POWELL

19 A Meeting Of Minds

SPIRA-LIGHT COVER FINAL.indd 1

Make sure you maximise opportunities offered by your industry body membership, says Angus Lindsay

20 View From The Top Are restriction on public parks getting ridiculous?

Surely we could be putting their facilities to better use says Phil Jones

22 A Very Public Affair Andrew Wilson considers the role of our public parks both now and in the future

4

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Contents August.indd 4

24 Designing Roof Gardens

ROBERT CHARLES LANDSCAPES

OPINION

16/07/2014 14:25

Liz Ackerley explains design processes and considerations as well as suitable hard landscaping materials

27 The Real Cost of Decking Karl Harrison explores further cost considerations when installing new decking

29 Let’s Hear It From Patricia Fox of Aralia Garden Design

33 The One Show Garden Alex Noble, winner of The One Show competition to design a Hampton Court garden, explains the competition process and her design www.prolandscapermagazine.com

16/07/2014 16:35

CONTENTS

NURSERY

49 Nursery News News bites and information from around the country, including Nursery Notes from Palmstead

50 Plantsman’s Plot and Hedging Summer plant and tree inspiration from nurseries around the country

52 Nursery Factfile A nursery factfile with Hedges Direct

54 Photography Tips Specialist horticultural photographer Jonathan Ward provides tips and a few basic rules

57 Latest Products Traditional style planters

59 Resin Bound Surfacing Clearstone explain what is meant by resin bound surfacing, plus latest products

CONTRIBUTORS Angus Lindsay Head of Fleet at The Landscape Group Phil Jones MD of ISS Facility Services Landscaping Andrew Wilson Garden designer and lecturer Liz Acklerley Garden designer and landscape architect Karl Harrison Director of Exterior Solutions Ltd Jonathan Ward Photographer and garden writer at Ginger Horticulture

60 Tumbling Bay The Olympic Park’s new play space, like no other

33

EQUIPMENT

EQUIPMENT

63 Equipment News PORTFOLIO

37 Moustows Manor A redesign of a small garden to complement a large Georgian property

by Garden Art Designs

40 Purple Haze Landscaping Solutions created a multi-use space for clients with a variety of different needs

44 Spira-Light Robert Charles Landscapes renovated a garden to make it safer for young grandchildren www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Contents August.indd 5

65 General Latest Kit 67 New Releases at SALTEX 69 Trading With Ransomes Jacobsen PEOPLE

70 Life/Style with

Ann-Marie Powell We talked to the awardwinning garden designer, writer, journalist, and TV presenter about her travel, work and personal inspirations

ARE YOU GOING? AUGUST 14-17 Southport Flower Show www.southportflowershow.co.uk SEPTEMBER 2-4 IOG SALTEX www.iog-saltex.com 2-3 Four Oaks Trade Show www.fouroaks-tradeshow.com 17 Palmstead Soft Landscape Workshop www.palmstead.co.uk OCTOBER 7 Landscape Live Yorkshire County Cricket Ground, Headingley www.landscapelive.co.uk NOVEMBER 18 FutureScape Sandown Park Racecourse www.futurescapeevent.com

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

5

18/07/2014 09:24

NEWS

NEWS SHED Eljays44 Ltd raises awareness of benefits of plants in the workplace Monday 14 July saw the start of National Plants at Work Week.

Eljays44 Ltd (publishers of Pro Landscaper magazine) created a pop-up office in Rustington to coincide with the start of the week in order to raise awareness of the benefits of plants in an office environment.

Eljays44 invited local businesses to come by and find out about the benefits themselves, and to also view the large variety of plants on display. Haskins Garden Centre kindly provided a wide selection of indoor plants showing the versatility and ease of care, plus ways of brightening up the workplace. There was also a fact sheet on the attributes of each plant to take away.

All photos will also be posted on the Pro Landscaper Facebook page. www.eljays44.com

6

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

News Shed.indd 6

A select group of clients, industry contacts, suppliers and special guests enjoyed and afternoon in the sun at their Knaphill base on 3 July to celebrate Norris & Gardiner’s 50 years of trading.

In 1964 Colin Gardiner joined forces with Cedric Norris and Norris & Gardiner was born. Who knows if they thought it would turn into a 50 year journey but as they march through 2014, not only has it survived but it has developed an enviable reputation for quality, service and value. There have been many changes over the years and 2014 sees yet another significant move forwards as Norris & Gardiner becomes part of the

Gavin Jones Group.

Director Richard Gardiner said “It was great to mark the occasion with some those people that have made it happen over the 50 years, of course my father couldn’t be with us but his co-founder Cedric Norris joined us as well as his Brother John who is also a former partner. I would like to thank my team and the suppliers who all put so much effort into the day making it a great success”. www.norrisandgardiner.co.uk

Oak View Landscapes’ 10th anniversary Oak View Landscapes is celebrating its 10th anniversary on the back of new contracts secured to the value of £700,000 during May and June 2014. Oak View Landscapes was founded in May 2004 by Paul Downer, who saw an opportunity to provide a bespoke service to landscape architects and garden designers in both the commercial and domestic fields.

After 24 months of trading Oak View was delighted to receive an award as well as the coveted ‘Best

Alitex raises money for The William Wates Memorial Trust A group of intrepid souls from Alitex signed up to the Tour de Force to fundraise for The William Wates Memorial Trust. The Tour de Force follows the same route as the Tour de France but started and completed seven days before. The Alitex Peloton went through some

50 Years of Norris & Gardiner

gruelling training sessions in the months leading up to the challenge which took place on 2 and 3 July from Ypres to Reims – aptly called Cobbles to Champagne – a whopping 350km (217 miles). Their aim was to raise £15,000 for The William Wates Memorial Trust whose mission is to help the most

Newcomer’ award at the 2006 BALI Awards. A year later the Oak View Landscapes team had grown to 15 locally employed staff and received further recognition by winning the ‘Best Growing Business’ award at the 2007 Essex Business Awards. Since 2009 Oak View has grown from strength to strength and now works for many national and smaller local house builders and construction companies. www.oakviewlandscapes.co.uk

disadvantaged young people keep away from a life of crime and violence and fulfil their potential. The team is justifiably proud of their achievement and so far they have raised £15,610 and are still counting. www.alitex.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

17/07/2014 09:19

NEWS

Easigrass moves to bigger premises £34.5m Lottery

Easigrass, a leading supplier of artificial grass, has recently moved to larger premises to keep up with demand. The new warehouse and office based in London will give them the opportunity to hold more than double the stock than previously.

As a company Easigrass now has 33 franchisees across the UK, 10 teams installing within London and has increased the number of international licensed partners. It also has more than 50 Easibugs (branded artificial grass covered

cars) on the road.

Antony Gallagher, MD of Easigrass puts this continual success down to the quality of the products they offer, the customer lead service, speed of delivery and the branding of the business. Antony also commented that being able to supply only, offer a first class installation service and an excellent range of products keeps them one step ahead of the competition. He also revealed that the company is working on additional developments that will keep Easigrass at the forefront of the ever-expanding artificial grass market. www.easigrass.com

Work underway on hospice garden Greenfingers, the charity dedicated to creating magical gardens at children’s hospices around the UK, has started work on its 44th garden at Little Havens Hospice in Thundersley, Essex. The charity is creating a fully accessible and interactive ‘grow your own’ garden where seriously ill children and families can enjoy growing and harvesting their own food, as well as using the new space for therapy, play and relaxation.

News Shed.indd 7

The garden will transform a currently vacant patch of land into a lush and abundant fruit and vegetable garden where all children can be involved in planting, cultivating and harvesting crops. The garden has been designed and built by Chelmsford based Eden Horticulture, with Matthew Eden working alongside Greenfingers’ Garden Project Manager Emma Hanford. www.greenfingerscharity.org.uk

investment in UK’s public parks The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and Big Lottery Fund announced in July £34.5 million of investment in 13 parks across the UK. This new funding follows the publication of the HLF’s recent report which revealed the UK’s public parks are at serious risk of decline unless innovative new ways of funding and maintaining them are found.

Alongside restoration of important historic features, and the installation of new community facilities, this funding will also deliver a range of activities designed to help these parks to be more sustainable. Projects receiving funding today include new cafes and skills training for volunteers and friends groups.

Minister for Communities Stephen Williams said: “It’s great to see the Heritage Lottery Fund supporting local communities in this way and injecting £34.5m into 13 parks to help transform them. Parks bring people together and help breathe life into communities, providing opportunities and space for both reflection and physical activity. They are particularly important to people in town and city centres where many residents don’t have their own gardens for relaxation and for their children to play.” www.hlf.org.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF Office plant of the year named

Echeveria – which beat Devil’s Ivy and Anthurium to the winning spot

Marshalls opens garden to celebrate Tour de France

Marshalls has unveiled its cycle landscape products range and a dedicated garden at its headquarters in Elland to celebrate the Tour de France coming to Yorkshire.

Civic Trees plants trees for Mayor’s RE:LEAF scheme Civic Trees, part of Glendale, has completed the planting of over 350 trees for the RE:LEAF scheme, led by the Mayor of London

Herb garden to spice things up at Battersea Park A renovated herb garden was opened in Battersea Park in July, Boursin carried out the work supported by gardening charity Thrive

17/07/2014 11:43

NEWS

DIARY OF A

SHOW MANAGER Dave Green Show Manager, RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show The RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower show is the world’s largest annual flower show and at the start of July the 34 acre site was alive for six days with music, entertainment and some of the best gardens and horticultural exhibits anywhere in the world. This year the top Gold medal winning gardens really had an international design flavour with several of the winning designers coming from all over the world.

Despite the designers’ international backgrounds, however, many of

News Shed.indd 8

the gardens were built

by UK landscapers and it was great to see so many skills on display with exceptional finishes and attention to detail across the showground.

With an average of around 145,000 visitors this year, the show provided a great engagement opportunity for sponsors. Each garden handed out on average approximately 10,000 leaflets over the six days, proving the show really was a great platform for improving brand recognition. The 2.5 hours of dedicated BBC coverage, together with broadcast coverage on BBC Breakfast News, The One Show and ITV’s Good Morning Britain, meant that the show had one of its best ever years for broadcast coverage.

During the show designers and landscapers reported lots of positive leads throughout the week with several confirming contracts for further work. A show garden charity sponsors also mentioned that their preview evening legacy event was one of their best ever, resulting in one of their largest ever legacy donations.

G Burley & Sons wins Harrier 56 Pro James Ball of G Burley & Sons, grounds maintenance and landscaping contractors in Dorking, was the winner of the Hayter Harrier 56 Pro in the competition run in Pro Landscaper in the spring. The company, which holds the Royal Warrant, works for numerous local authorities, historic properties, housing associations and other organisations in the South East and James said he is very pleased with the new mower. www.gburley.co.uk

As we move into August and the team arrive back at the RHS head office the focus will move to 2015 and thinking about the 25th anniversary year. We are already excited and have lots of ideas about how to celebrate and many designers have also mentioned their own special garden plans to mark the event. Deadlines for garden design submissions are in December, before we know it, it will be show time again!

16/07/2014 16:52

Why Compromise?

the artificial grass brand

Green Eclipse

...a product like no other

No. 1 for… • Product Innovation • Quality • Service For trade pricing and information on the full rage of products Call 01425 627832 or email info@namgrass.co.uk www.namgrass.co.uk Namgrass UK, Redcliffe, Bashley Road, Bashley, New Milton, Hampshire BH25 5RY

ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 268

14/07/2014 11:37

NEWS EXTRA

ETI update We have previously highlighted an important project that aims to improve conditions for workers in the sandstone sector of Rajasthan, India. This project is led by the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) a UK-based alliance that promotes respect for workers’ rights in international supply chains.

We speak with Hannah Bruce, ETI’s Category Leader for Hard Goods and Household, to hear about its work in this sector.

Is this issue relevant for UK landscape gardeners?

Customers are increasingly interested in finding out about the conditions in which products are produced, whether it’s clothes, food or building and landscaping materials. Rajasthan sandstone is a popular product in the UK – it is used domestically and commercially in driveways, patios and pavements. So this issue is relevant to anyone that deals with Rajasthan sandstone including architects, builders and professional landscapers.

What are the workers’ rights issues in Rajasthan?

Workers in Rajasthan face a number of challenges. We know that health and safety can be a major issue, particularly for workers involved in sandstone quarrying, where there is a real risk of silicosis. We have a local

TXE 606 & TXE 323

Awaiting pic(s)

project team that is speaking with workers and managers to hear what they need. Workers tell us there are issues around wages, paid leave, safety gear and medical benefits.

What does your programme seek to achieve?

Our project aims to build capacity within the Rajasthan sandstone sector, so that it is well positioned to identify and address these labour rights challenges. It involves nine ETI company members that import sandstone from Rajasthan, and we are using their commercial leverage to drive positive change in the supply chain. Our work is also supported by ETI trade union and NGO members that have specific knowledge of the labour rights environment in India and have connected us with local stakeholders.

How do you plan to do this?

On the one hand we’re taking a very practical approach. We want the Rajasthan sandstone industry to be well armed with tools, guidance and resources that promote positive business and human rights practices.

We are currently developing a training video that can be used in worker inductions in stone processing sites. We are also developing industry-specific guidance that our member companies will be piloting within their sandstone supply chains. But we’re also working at state level, engaging influential players such as the State Human Rights Commission.

How has the UK industry responded to this work?

We’ve received a positive response.

We’d had some engagement with the building sector before our UK industry launch in November last year. Interest is growing – major building and construction firms are starting to look at how they can work with companies and suppliers that are committed to ethically sourcing stone products. We are also seeing increased interest from the likes of UK builders’ merchants.

So what’s your advice for the UK landscaping sector?

If you’d like to know more about this issue and our work, I’d suggest visiting the ETI website. I’ve just written a blog about my recent field visit to Rajasthan, which shares a bit more about our work there. I’d also suggest you get in touch with our stone supplier member companies that are engaged in our programme.

These companies have committed to implementing the ETI Base Code of labour practice within their supply chains. They can also talk you through the steps they are taking to drive positive change for sandstone workers in Rajasthan.

More information For more information on ETI’s work in the Rajasthan sandstone sector, visit: www.ethicaltrade.org/stone Hannah’s blog ‘Labour rights in Rajasthan - what does good look like?’ can be found in ETI’s blog section: www.ethicaltrade. org/news-and-events/blog

The world’s most popular line marking machine just got better

New for 2014

Updated design for even easier use and greater functionality Call 01530 510060 or visit www.supaturf.co.uk

News Extra.indd 10

Supaturf Line Marking Liquids

Create the ideal lines in any venue

16/07/2014 11:35

Join the UK's leading artifical grass company Become a part of our network! Be the chosen supplier and installer for Easigrass in your area! Whether you want to join us or you want us to install on your behalf, contact us today.

• Great existing network • Full support from HQ • The best marketing within the industry • Vast range of products • Exclusive deals for partners & trade

Easigrass Distribution Ltd, The Old Grass Depot, Park Avenue, London, UB1 3AJ.  T: +44 (0)845 094 8880  e : sales@easigrass.com  w : www.easigrass.com ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 274

17/07/2014 09:01

OUT & ABOUT

Al Fresco Category: Summer Gardens Design: Peter Reader Construction: Living Landscapes Medal: Silver-gilt Flora

Garden of Solitude Category: Your Garden, Your Budget Design: Alexandra Froggatt Construction: Landform Consultants Medal: Silver-gilt Flora & Best Your Garden, Your Budget Garden

Essence of Australia Category: Show Gardens Design: Jim Fogarty Construction: Landform Consultants Medal: Gold and Best Show Garden

The Just Retirement Garden Category: Show Gardens Design: Jack Dunckley Construction: Jack Dunckley’s Landscape Design Medal: Silver-Gilt Flora

RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW PRO LANDSCAPER TAKES A LOOK AT GARDENS FROM THE 2014 SHOW

Sloth – Quarry of Silences

Bacchus Garden Category: Your Garden, Your Budget Design: Wardrop Designs Construction: RDC Landscape Design & Construction Medal: Silver Flora

12

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Hampton Court.indd 12

Category: Conceptual Gardens Design: Sheena Seeks Construction: Eden Landscape Projects Medal: Gold & Best Conceptual Garden

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

17/07/2014 09:41

OUT & ABOUT

Vestra Wealth’s Vista Category: Show Gardens Design: Paul Martin Construction: Beautiful Horizons Landscapes Medal: Gold

Wrath – Eruption of Unhealed Anger

The World Vision Garden Category: Show Gardens Design: John Warland Construction: Indoor Garden Design Medal: Silver Flora

Category: Conceptual Gardens Design: Nilufer Danis Construction: Landform Consultants Medal: Gold

Hedgehog Street Category: Summer Gardens Design: Tracy Foster Construction: Conway Landscapes Medal: Gold

The Bounce Back Foundation Garden: Untying the Knot Category: Summer Gardens Design: Frederic Whyte Construction: Cube1994 Medal: Silver Flora

A Space to Connect & Grow Category: Summer Gardens Design: Jeni Cairns and Sophie Antonelli Construction: Juniper House Garden Design Medal: Gold and Best Summer Garden

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Hampton Court.indd 13

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 13

16/07/2014 09:58

Call our sales team for more information on 0845 1771664

Landscapers... apers ape r ... rs Join our networkk of Artificial Grass Direct dealers.

QUALITY ARTIFICIAL GRASS DELIVERED DIRECT TO SITE ✔ Exceptional quality products oduct cs ct ✔ Highly competitive prices ✔ Free technical service o si sit te te ✔ National delivery direct to site ✔ Huge stocks available

ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 250

EASY FIT IT

17/02/2014 12:16

Association

ASSOCIATION NEWS

NEWS

SGD Product of the Year Over 300 votes were cast

by SGD members to help determine the shortlist for the first SGD Product of the Year award. Products ranged from wildflower lawns to decorative drain covers. Congratulations to the 10 manufacturers whose products have reached the shortlist they include: ● Brickworks Vande Moortel for the 70mm SeptimA Nuance clay paver

SGD bulletin ● CED Natural Stone for the

Super CEDEC natural organic footpath gravel ● Gaze Burvill for the sculptural Jubilee Spiral bench ● GroundsCare Products for the ZipLevel Pro-2000 surveying tool ● Joanna Wallis for the Stone Globe Light which lights up at night from it stone ball appearance by day (1)

efig outline Office Plant of the Year This year’s Office Plant of the Year can finally be disclosed.

After members, INSCAPE visitors and website visitors voted we had a shortlist of three plants: Anthurium; Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum) and Echeveria.

At the beginning of July our panel of judges chose the winner. Lisa and Jim Wilkinson revered editors of this magazine, Matthew Appleby of Horticulture Week, Claudia de Yong, award winning Garden Designer and www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Association News.indd 15

Rona Wheeldon author of the Flowerona blog, all met at Indoor Garden Design headquarters and efig’s chairman Ian Drummond was on hand to answer any questions.

And the winner is... Echeveria.

Yes this pretty succulent went

● Lateral Design Studio for

the Designer Landscape Drain Cover (2) ● Q Lawns for the Meadowmat for Birds and Bees ● Stonemarket for the Cordara sandstone range that has the appearance of wood (3) ● Urbis Design for the Poppy Bowl planter or water bowl (4) ● Wildflower Turf Ltd for

the soil-less Wild Flower Landscape Turf with 34 wildflower and grass varieties (5) All of the products will be displayed in London on September 23-24. If you haven’t yet cast your vote and you are a practicing garden designer please visit the SGD Product of the Year website to find out how you can take part: www.sgdproductoftheyear.com.

The winner will be announced on 24 September 2014.

National Plants at Work Week 2014 This special week in efig’s calendar rolled out for the second year on 14 July and aimed to make people aware straight to the top spot in a of the positive affect of plants in unanimous vote. Devil’s Ivy, a the workplace. One of the most popular office plant came in noticeable awareness raising second and Anthurium third. actions of the week was Echeveria was an easy choice a number of pop-up offices. according to the judging criteria Pro Landscaper created their – ease of care in a commercial own pop-up office to match environment; best for relieving those created by Indoor Garden stress and cleaning the air. Jim Design at Kings Cross and commented that he’d made his Primrose Hill; and Enterprise choice before the judging. Lisa Plants offices sprung up in commented, “Its versatility is great, Harbour Exchange, Associated it can be used on its own in a pot, Newspapers and Canon Street in a terrarium and within a living Station. Plant Designs also joined wall, a unanimous winner this year.” in outside their office near Fleet While Matthew felt, “Its subtle Street while Urban Planters charm, great to green offices” caused a stir in the centre made it the perfect choice. of Nottingham.

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 15

15/07/2014 15:42

ASSOCIATION NEWS

RHS report During August the four RHS gardens will be holding a series of events and masterclasses to showcase the wide variety of plants and planting schemes that define the individual gardens.

The events have been developed to spark the imagination and inspire gardeners, and garden designers, to work with greater confidence and to think bigger and bolder. With Pro Landscaper readers in mind, here are just some of the events taking place at the gardens this month: RHS Garden Wisely, Surrey ● Plant Pests and Diseases, 6 August: Learn about the pests and diseases most likely to attack your plants, how to spot

them and what to do about them. This session will cover the identification and control of a variety of common garden enemies. There will also be a walk around Wisley to show pests and diseases in context and the controls used. ● Designing with Water, 9 August: One of the biggest challenges in garden design is understanding how water works and how we can bring this key element into our gardens. This one day course will look out solutions for different types of water, from natural and formal ponds, contemporary water features to natural bog gardens and wetland planting. ● Formative Tree and Shrub Pruning, 21 August:

16

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Association News.indd 16

RHS Hyde Hall, Essex RHS Hyde Hall Flower Show, ● 31 July - 3 August: This annual event is an inspiring day that features specialist nurseries and trade stands, gardening sundries, talks and advice, as well as the chance to explore the garden in glorious full bloom.

RHS Garden Rosemoor, North Devon ● Gardening with Grasses, 17 August: With such a variety of species available this demonstration will offer advice and inspiration on how grass can be used in garden

have already been sent to all full BALI members; the Annual Report and Accounts will be

BALI briefing SALTEX and the BALI National AGM Unbelievably another BALI year has come and gone and the National AGM approaches.

Once again this will be held

Ensure young trees develop a good shape to avoid poor branch unions and shapes in later life. This half day session with Garden Manager Matthew Pottage will also cover the correct pruning cuts and systems of pruning to avoid damaging plants by pruning with incorrect technique or timing.

during SALTEX in the main Grandstand at Windsor Racecourse on Wednesday 3 September, 11.30am.

Calling papers and Board Directors’ Nomination form

BALI members at the 2013 National AGM

with you imminently. Do take this opportunity to meet other BALI colleagues from across

design to add architecture, movement, structure and drama. ● Seasonal Planting and Propagation, 19 August: A guided walk through the garden looking at exotic planting, plant combinations, leaf shape, size and colour.

Particular attention will be paid to the vast range of tender perennials, dahlias and annuals used throughout the garden and the propagation methods.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr, North Yorkshire ● Garden Tour, every Wednesday throughout July, August and September: A guided tour of the garden looking at how Harlow Carr has evolved over time, from a Victorian Spa to an award winning RHS Garden.

To find out more information about events at all four RHS gardens visit: www.rhs.org. uk/gardens

the country and hear what your association has planned for the next 12 months. BALI will be exhibiting at SALTEX (stand number H83) so if you are visiting the exhibition but not attending on the day of the AGM, do come and see us.

BALI Pavilion at Ecobuild 2015 If you think the cost of exhibiting at Ecobuild is prohibitively expensive, think again! The organisers of the

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 15:44

ASSOCIATION NEWS

APL update Strong show for APL members at RHS Hampton 2014 Members of the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) are celebrating their success once again at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show which took place from 8-13 July.

The APL’s success at Hampton Court continued with an impressive accolade of Best in Show, Best in Category, two Gold medals, four Silver-gilt medals and three Silver Flora medals, taking their tally to 26 medals in the past three years of the show.

Landform Consultants, headed by APL chairman Mark Gregory won Best in Show and Gold for its build of the Essence of Australia garden

biggest and most successful sustainable construction exhibition in the UK are offering BALI members the opportunity to exhibit within the BALI Pavilion, situated in the Future Cities area of the exhibition and adjacent to the main seminar area. Many of our larger BALI Affiliate members already exhibit individually on an annual basis but the BALI Pavilion gives growing companies the opportunity to have a presence

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Association News.indd 17

which was designed by Jim Fogarty for the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Landform also scooped Gold for Eruption of Unhealed Anger designed by Nilufer Danis.

Best in Show: The Essence of Australia garden

and reach the quality visitors that Ecobuild attracts each year. For more information email ross.hutchinson@bali. org.uk.

An autumn of unmissable regional events Your BALI Regions are busy organising some great autumn events, open to members and guests. Full details are on the BALI website at www.bali. org.uk but just to whet your appetite, here’s a selection:

The Your Garden, Your Budget gardens, all built by APL members proved to be popular with the judges yet again. Landform continued their medal run by winning Gold and Best in Category with Garden of Solitude, designed

by Alexandra Frogatt and built on a budget of £15,000.

In the same category, Chew Valley Trees won Silvergilt for Green is the Colour, designed by Elinor Scarth and Etienne Haller on a budget of £7,000. Hambrooks also won a Silver-gilt for its garden Halo, which was designed by Stuart Charles Towner on a budget of £13,000. RDC Landscape Design and Construction completed the Your Garden, Your Budget medals with a Silver Flora for the Bacchus Garden designed by Jean Wardrop on a budget of £10,000.

There was good news for Living Landscapes which won a Silver-gilt for the Al Fresco garden designed by Peter Reader. Scotscape

Midlands Region ● 11 September: BALI Trout Fishing Competition, Eyebrook Reservoir ● 20 November: ‘From Captivity to a Castle’ with Tom Hart Dyke, Droitwich Spa

won Silver-gilt for the Jordans Wildlife Garden designed by Selina Botham, whilst Big Fish Landscapes added to the the medal tally by winning a Silver Flora for the Macmillan Legacy Garden.

Garden House Design was also highly recommended after winning a Four Star Trade Stand award featuring a Renson Camargue louvered terrace cover and a Jamie Oliver wood fired oven as well as composite decking and an impressive selection of planters.

APL Chairman, Mark Gregory said: “This once again demonstrates the landscaping excellence from the APL and its members. Every year the APL showcases the very best in garden design, landscaping and plant production and I would like to congratulate all on their success at Hampton Court. It is always an honour to receive accolades for your work, but it is particularly satisfying to receive them at this level.”

Yorkshire & North East Region ● 23 October: Annual Networking Dinner with Noel Kingsbury, Harrogate North Thames Region ● 9 September: ‘Gardens in the Sky’ with John Wyer ● 14 October: ‘A Park on the Rock’ with Mark Gregory, Hatfield

BALI Yorkshire and North East Networking Event 2013

www.bali.org.uk

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 17

15/07/2014 15:45

COMING SOON

The exclusive premier of the new Ransomes MP Series.

Years in the making, and ready to redefine the municipal mowing industry.

PL/MP Teaser/08/2014

PC MP Tease1 A4.indd 1 ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 269

15/07/2014 15/07/2014 11:14 14:53

OPINION

A MEETING OF MINDS topics from Health and Safety to whole life costs.

Whilst IPU did an excellent job of getting competitors together using a format in which all were comfortable to discuss the topics of the day, it ran the risk of becoming a talking shop from which nothing further is achieved – a There may be an air of familiarity about this article concern that was raised in the summing up. as I have referred to the IPU Contractors Forum It’s easy to be impressed by the AEA’s previously, but please don’t stop reading – this support of agriculture and related industries, but article takes a slightly different route. June saw the we mustn’t overlook our own industry body in the IPU Group hold form of BALI. their fourth BALI works hard I MAY BE WRONG, BUT WITHIN Contractors to support the GROUNDS MAINTENANCE I THINK WE Forum, hosted by needs of the ARE ALL TOO WARY OF EACH OTHER TO the Agricultural amenity and Engineering landscaping COMMUNICATE CONSTRUCTIVELY, Association (AEA) industry but it POTENTIALLY AFFECTING THE FUTURE in Peterborough. needs more input DIRECTION OF THE INDUSTRY What has now from those it become an annual represents to event was attended by a strong cross section of make its voice heard. It is all too easy to complain machinery-based managers from grounds about tendering processes, suspect awards, maintenance contractors. Attendees came from skills shortages, legislation changes – the list organisations ranging from the large corporates goes on – but realistically, when do we all get such as Sodexo and specialists such as Grasstex together and use our industry body to address and Bear Scotland, through to the support these? I may be wrong, but within grounds services of Assist maintenance I think Academy and Acacia we are all too wary of Hire. It was a good each other to turnout and formed the communicate basis for some lively constructively, discussion. potentially affecting With Roger the future direction of Lane-Nott (outgoing the industry.

Director General of the There’s a lot AEA) hosting the event more to BALI than you cannot help but just the awards. I Impressive, but how about an award for best admire his passion and recently attended an maintained housing estate? enthusiasm for his job. excellent day at Roger has worked hard in Europe to make Stoneleigh which brought several manufacturers Britain’s voice heard and inject some common and the HSE together to cover workplace risks sense into the quagmire of EU driven bureaucracy. associated with noise, vibration and dust. This Throughout the day the forum covered many was a well-attended event but I was surprised by

Make sure you maximise opportunities offered by your industry body membership by attending events and forums. It can only add to the future development of the grounds maintenance sector says Angus Lindsay

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Angus Lindsay.indd 19

BALI training on noise, vibration and dust should be more widely attended

the amount of members that didn’t take up this offer. In October there will be another event in the Midlands reviewing safe practice around banks mowing; once again this will be supported by manufacturers. It is hoped the day will lead to a recognised industry standard we can all work to.

I have mentioned the BALI Awards, and in reviewing the categories I feel that they should broaden their scope and freshen things up to encompass more aspects of our industry. What about complete grounds maintenance or housing association contracts assessed, looking at every stage from tender to delivery and involving all stakeholders? What about celebrating innovation within the industry, not just landscaping, Health and Safety and environmental good practice?

I am not in any way criticising the excellent work BALI does, I’m trying to raise its profile.

I urge all members to look at how much they use and support this organisation and ask yourself if you could do more. This may mean that we have to get off our backsides and talk more with our competitors – but you never know – you might learn something!

ABOUT ANGUS LINDSAY As an agriculturist, Angus spent several years working on arable farms in Scotland before joining VSO in Egypt, implementing a mechanisation programme, managing field operations for a commercial cotton plantation in Nigeria and as a contract instructor for Massey Ferguson in Yemen. During this time he also spent a year at Silsoe, gaining an MSc in Agricultural Engineering and Mechanisation Management.

Returning to the UK he joined Glendale as machinery manager in 1994 – going on to become Company Engineer – before joining The Landscape Group in 2009 as Group Head of Assets and Fleet. Contact:

alindsay@thelandscapegroup.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 19

15/07/2014 15:03

OPINION

VIEW FROM THE TOP Are restrictions on public parks getting ridiculous? Surely we could be putting their facilities to better use therefore gaining more value from them says Phil Jones

I read with interest the recent publicity of Nottinghamshire County Council’s intentions to introduce new park by-laws which include the banning of singing, ball games, picnics and the flying of kites.Yes, you read correctly – flying of kites! Whilst I am sure there is some measure of sensationalism in the headlines, it appears that this particular local authority is largely serious in trying to curb the enjoyment and recreational activities of some of its parks users.

Some have defended these steps as being in the interests of public safety – to protect our park users from risks that could lead to injury or even worse, whilst others have argued that they are as a result of the growing blame culture and these new by-laws will merely mitigate risk.

One local councillor believes the change will “discourage nuisance behaviours and minor anti-social behaviour”. The term ‘one man’s meat is another man’s poison’ springs to mind. How can it be said that those who outlaw singing and picnics should be in the majority and that their opinion should prevail?

Is this apparent ramping up of the local by-laws a huge step back to the Victorian era? Is it a reversion to the days when numerous notices were posted in prominent positions in parks and open spaces to remind patrons of park regulations?

Whilst much praise should be poured upon the Victorians for the establishment and protection of our public parks, I have always thought that the most draconian and misplaced notice of all, one which goes against all of my feelings for the use of public open space, whether formal gardens, sports grounds or other amenity areas, is that dreaded sign that says 20

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

View From The Top.indd 20

IS THIS APPARENT RAMPING UP OF THE LOCAL BY-LAWS A HUGE STEP BACK TO THE VICTORIAN ERA? ‘KEEP OFF THE GRASS’. This instruction, which I see rarely adhered to when it is displayed, goes against all of the reasons why we have parks for people.

Why would anyone want to curb activity in parks when most local authorities are struggling to afford their upkeep? Would it not be more economically sensible to draw as many interested parties and individuals into these great outdoor facilities, increase use and gain from that higher footfall?

It was only two years ago that Edinburgh City Council lifted many park restrictions which had been in place since the 19th century, stating that “issues of the day may not be issues of the past” and that a more common sense approach was needed for the management of our public parks. Outdated measures which had been in place were rescinded, including the right to fly kites, play dominoes and swim in the ponds in the city’s public parks.

The Edwardians, at the point when the number of public parks had begun to grow, began to relax their parks rules, showing a willingness to tolerate a wide variety of behaviour. Even driving a motor car through a public park was permitted (it still is in Hyde Park, London).

Where does real anti-social behaviour end and normal behaviour begin? Are we in jeopardy of losing certain sectors of our park users for fear of offending the sensibilities of other sectors? Balance is difficult to achieve in these circumstances, but it may be the key target.

Those who seek to implement seemingly draconian measures in order to preserve parks use based on a need that existed a number of years ago would do well to remember that these are our parks and the most effective way to manage them is to determine how best we can ensure inclusiveness of as many sections of society through efficient use and careful consultation. Otherwise I would be tempted to suggest that the law makers ‘go fly their kite’ somewhere else!

ABOUT PHIL JONES Phil Jones is Managing Director of ISS Facility Services Landscaping and is based at the company’s head office in Woking, Surrey. He gained an HND in landscape construction and moved into grounds maintenance early on in his career, further gaining an MBA. He has been with the company since 1987 and as well as running the landscaping business he also sits on the UK operational management board of ISS Facility Services.

Follow Phil Jones: @philjonesISS Follow ISS Landscaping: @ISSLandscaping

www.isslandscaping.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 14:57

THE TORO GROUNDSMASTER 360 QUAD-STEER MOWER Grounds mowers from Toro – brought to you by Lely, award-winning UK distributors of Toro for 30 years.

Meet the Groundsmaster 360 Quad-Steer from Toro – a highly versatile and tough workhorse that offers groundscare professionals class-leading agility With its revolutionary Quad-Steer all-wheel steering, the Groundsmaster 360 is in a class of its own for cutting around obstacles such as trees, benches and litter bins. A doddle to drive, it turns on a sixpence for fast, tight turns – without leaving a mark on turf. Not only that, the tough, durable GM360 is a tool built to work. Climb steep kerbs, mow banks and slopes, all with excellent stability and high levels of comfort. The GM360 from Toro.

You really have to drive it to appreciate it.

ASK FOR FREE DEMA O

CALL 01480 226 800 TODAY

Full product details at www.toro.com/360 Experience the GM360 for yourself, with a free onsite demonstration. Call Lely on 01480 226800

GM7200 ZERO-TURN

LT3340 HEAVY-DUTY

CT SERIES COMPACT TRIPLE

GM3400 OUT-FRONT ROTARY

TM7490 TRAILED

Lely. Your partners in turfcare. Call 01480 226800.

Lely not only brings you Toro. Talk to us, too, about TYM compact tractors and Otterbine water management systems.

Toro Grounds Products are distributed by Lely (UK) Limited, St. Neots, Cambridgeshire PE19 1QH. Tel: 01480 226800 | Email: turfcare.sales.uk@lely.com | www.lely.com | www.toro.com

ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 271

16/07/2014 16:06

OPINION

A VERY PUBLIC AFFAIR The recent transfer of presidency at the Landscape Institute from Sue Illman to Noel Farrer was celebrated with a reception at the Barbican Centre in London. As well as the obligatory speeches by both incoming and outgoing presidents, the occasion also gave a platform to Dame Jenny Abramsky, Chair of the Heritage Lottery Fund (HFL). Andrew Wilson considers the role of our public parks both now and in the future.

Abramsky was celebrating the publication of a of the municipal parks movement as a British report from HLF entitled the State of UK Public invention of which we should be fiercely proud, Parks, the first of what is hoped to be a regular for it established a worldwide movement. For its series over the next decades. After funding many time this was an innovative and bold move of public park schemes across the UK the HLF has not inconsiderable foresight but I can’t help but expressed an interest in the way in which parks think that we need a similar injection of foresight have developed or perhaps even been rescued in right now. some cases.

Our parks, or at least the vast majority, were The report itself bears both good and bad created principally in the Victorian era as our news for although it was found that people value cities expanded and urban density spectacularly their local green spaces the funding for the upkeep increased. This process has never really slowed of these parks has fallen by 20 per cent and in and now the pressure is on our private gardens some hard pressed local authorities by 25 which are diminishing in size at an alarming per cent. Not all local authorities rate. In many new developments responded which leaves me they are virtually non-existent wondering if in fact only with only the bare those proud of their minimum of green parks actually space allowed. answered the call.

The bigger This could suggest question is what do that the figures for we want from our funding cuts are parks now? Is it possibly much enough to renovate worse. and restore these The pressure landscapes or do THE PRESSURE FROM CENTRAL from central we need something GOVERNMENT ON LOCAL AUTHORITIES different. Are we government on local authorities to TO MAKE FINANCIAL CUTS HAS PLACED happy with Victorian make financial cuts bedding produced REAL PRESSURE ON OUR PARKS has placed real by skilled staff in BUT ALSO ON THE TEAMS RESPONSIBLE pressure on our the name of civic FOR THEIR UPKEEP parks but also on pride or would we the teams like to re-direct responsible for their upkeep. Whilst some retain those skills to providing alternative landscape or their in-house and experienced teams, many have design tropes? How do we want our taxes to wielded the knife in favour of private contractors be spent? who will often carry out only the basic tasks.

If our gardens are disappearing could we not The whole report opens with the proclamation take some vicarious pleasure in our parks by 22

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Andrew Wilson.indd 22

seeing them as part of a community garden movement? Perhaps they could be our local ecological habitats, emphasising and supporting greater bio-diversity within our urban centres. We need areas of close mown lawn in order to retain a flexibility of use for larger events or sports but acres of lawn and dense monotonous shrubberies are perhaps a now outdated park template and at least should be worthy of review.

The report outlines five calls to action, one of which is the seeking of new finance models and rethinking delivery, possibly the most important challenge for the future. What is the point in increasing expenditure or investing in and renewing old parks if in fact the basic model needs to be refreshed or at least updated? Perhaps the next step is to ask the question: “What should our public parks be and for whom?”

ABOUT ANDREW WILSON Andrew Wilson is a landscape and garden designer and a Director of Wilson McWilliam Studio. He is also a Director of the London College of Garden Design, an author, writer and lecturer. www.wmstudio.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 15:05

The Finest Decking for Beautiful Projects by

Exterior Decking supply the finest decking materials to commercial and domestic projects across the UK and Europe.

With the largest range of decking materials in the UK, Exterior is the first choice by Architects and Designers for specifying projects where their clients demand the best.

Exterpark Hardwood decking is available in 10 timber species, 3 thicknesses and is the only timber decking to have a patented invisible stainless fixing system providing a beautiful screw-less decking project.

TEAK • IPE • KEBONY • ELONDO • DOUSSIE KURUPAY • MERBAU • LAPACHO CUMARU • MASSARANDUBA

Exterior Decking exclusively uses and recommends Owatrol decking oil

+44 (0)1494 711800 office@exteriordecking.co.uk

Exterior Solutions Ltd Unit 8, Penn Street Works Penn Street, Amersham Buckinghamshire HP7 0PX

www.exteriordecking.co.uk

IPE AND KURUPAY UK STOCK NOW AVAILABLE, NEXT DAY DELIVERY FOR LONDON AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Millboard is a resin-mineral composite (RMC) decking board, manufactured in the UK as a high quality alternative to wood plastic composite (WPC) and hardwood decking. It is the UK’s only wood free composite that far exceeds anti slip rating to BS 79.76., with the added benefit of being stain and fade resistant as well as being maintenance free.

• • • • • •

Maintenance free – no sanding or staining ever needed.

Algae resistant – non porous material therefore resists algae growth.

Anti slip to BS79.76 and low maintenance.

No wood fibres or rice husks to support mould or algae growth.

Made in the UK 25 Year Residential Limited Warranty

www.millboard.co.uk

ADVERTS.indd 161

16/07/2014 16:15

TECHNICAL

Early considerations when designing a roof terrace include the style and big idea for the space required, its fit with the style of the property and key functional requirements. These elements, as with a garden, contribute to the design layout and the materials used and these sit alongside the considerations discussed in my first article.

Often, of particular importance when considering roof terrace layout design, are the views from the property out to the terrace (a client will often report that a large percentage of their enjoyment is looking out at the terrace), the views from the terrace to the surroundings as well as areas for seating, shelter/microclimate creation, and other client-specific requirements. The design and construction of a roof terrace tends to be a much more precise and constrained process than creating a garden on the ground with every

THE HARD STUFF element being strictly considered and often used without compromise to achieve a particular effect. On a roof, it is critical to consider the longevity and sustainability of the materials to be used because of the practical logistics of replacing materials in the long term. This means that as far as is possible, premium materials need to be selected at the outset to ensure longevity and to minimise long-term maintenance issues and repair costs. It is this, alongside the specific situations on a roof that make roof terraces particularly exciting and challenging to create!

I believe that it’s critical to show the client 3D models of the proposed space as well as key views and angles. Indeed, these visuals are a valuable tool for seeking and obtaining approval to implement the scheme from the management company when retrofitting.

It is important to be aware of the increased costs of implementing a roof terrace design compared to a garden on the ground. On average they are at least a third more expensive, but this varies considerably © Paul Butler

PREMIUM MATERIALS NEED TO BE SELECTED AT THE OUTSET TO ENSURE LONGEVITY AND TO MINIMISE LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE ISSUES

DESIGNING ROOF GARDENS

24

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Liz Ackerley.indd 24

©John Wilkes

Liz Ackerley continues her series on designing a roof terrace. Here she explains design processes and considerations when creating an architectural framework for roof terraces as well as some of the most suitable hard landscaping materials

depending upon the elements required. The additional cost is driven by the greater need for hard materials and their durability requirements due to the harsher climatic conditions, with wind and UV being major factors as well as the implementation logistics.

Boundary materials From a safety point of view, the first consideration must be the boundaries, and local building regulations determine the minimum height allowable. The materials will be determined by design considerations and accommodating the environmental elements.

When retrofitting a roof terrace, a boundary will already be in existence and it is worth noting that changes to the existing boundary may constitute a change to the external fabric of the property and perhaps require planning consent. Solid forms of fencing are not suitable for roof terraces because of the wind turbulence they cause, so slatted fencing or boundaries with apertures for filtering the wind are preferred.

This can be done in wood, glass or other durable material. Glass/transparent material is great for enabling views to be preserved whilst minimising the force of the wind. Planting (to be discussed in detail in a separate article) can also be used to create a very effective and attractive windbreak at the boundary. I have www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 15:16

TECHNICAL

used Hedera helix screens to good effect to create privacy and a visual demarcation in a couple of recent schemes.

Surfaces The next consideration is the type(s) of surface required to deliver against the required practicalities of weight and durability, aesthetics and budget. There are a vast range of surfaces from timber, natural stone, tiles and newer products such as composite decking and rubber. Any timber decking to be used is likely to weather considerably on a roof therefore not all woods are suitable. Hardwoods from sustainable sources can be used that age back to a silvery grey colour if left without staining and protecting. Materials that must be treated should be avoided unless the required maintenance programme is in place. A variety of suppliers are now offering composite deck as an alternative to wooden deck each with slightly differing constituents, often including recycled wood fibres and recycled plastics. They also require installation onto a frame and are stated to be free of some of the issues associated with wood such as warping, rotting and the requirement for staining. I have recently used composite for its claimed maintenance and durability properties as well as its aesthetic fit with an urban roof terrace and modern interiors.

Remember that with all surface materials you need to ensure that you do not raise the floor so much that you compromise the overall height of the boundary.

With any paving used, it is essential to ensure it is frost hardy and to ensure good water run-off. Pedestal systems are often the favoured installation method on roof terraces with adjustable supports to allow correction of levels

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Liz Ackerley.indd 25

I BELIEVE THAT IT’S CRITICAL TO SHOW THE CLIENT 3D MODELS OF THE PROPOSED SPACE AS WELL AS KEY VIEWS AND ANGLES

and gradients, water can easily flow between the paving gaps to the roof membrane and away. The system allows utilities to run underneath (and also the insetting of lights if required). I have recently used light coloured 20mm thick porcelain tiles for their durability and aesthetics using this installation method. Note that glare is another consideration for roof terraces when using light materials. In my situation I used the stone under an overhead balcony to bring light into the area.

Structures Having determined the boundaries and floor, the terrace now needs focus, definition and vertical impact. These elements lead the eye to the terrace, as well as giving shade from the sun and providing decorative focal points. The light is often much harsher on the roof and a covered area can provide protection from the sun. This type of protection could be achieved with a retractable awning made of canvas or synthetic fabric. This is a major investment but would also bring elegance and comfort to the terrace. Note that materials (as for any soft furnishings on the furniture) need to be highly UV-stable. As with other elements, the weight of the proposed structure must be calculated and included in the list of items for which the weights are

determined and shared with the structural engineer or management company for approval.

Other structures may be primarily designed to be adorned with climbing plants and include wooden trelliswork, arbours and arguably the most impactful of plant structures: a pergola.

A current design that I am implementing includes a wire and timber pergola (always ensure that the appropriate technical advice is sought for stability of these structures on a roof). The beams will support climbing plants and act to contain the seating area as well as providing a focal point from the apartment; the pergola could also lead towards a focal point or good view.

In future articles in this series I will be talking about planting including planters and planting medium. I will also be talking about finishing touches e.g. water features as well as considering future maintenance needs.

ABOUT LIZ ACKERLEY Liz Ackerley CMLI is an award-winning garden designer and landscape architect who trained at Capel Manor and Birmingham City University with experience in landscape management as well as landscape design. A chartered landscape architect, she owns and runs Poppyhead Consultancy, a landscape design practice based in the North West.

www.poppyheadconsultancy.com

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 25

15/07/2014 15:18

1244 SAiGE Pro Landscaper Aug 2014 HR.pdf

1

11/07/2014

16:56

Decking Longlife Decking

PROVIDERS OF PREMIUM, ENVIRONMENTALLY SOURCED, COMPOSITE DECKING.

LIGHT GREY

REDWOOD

CHARCOAL

OAK

visit us online at

WWW.SAIGEDECKING.COM or call 01789 721 576

SAiGE Longlife Decking Ltd. | info@saigedecking.com

The only limitation is your imagination

Creating beautiful hardwood street furniture, for some of the UK’s most vibrant public spaces, for over 30 years.

ADVERTS.indd 157

Find out more at www.woodscape.co.uk

Call us on 01254 685185

16/07/2014 09:04

TECHNICAL

THE REAL COST OF DECKING

In his second installment, Karl Harrison explores further cost considerations when installing new decking

Designing the design The designer (or perhaps client) has provided a plan design of the proposed decking. It’s up to you, the installer, to understand this and convert it into a correctly designed timber structure. Even with the correct spans for the main structure it does pay to consider the lengths of the decking boards so every element works in harmony and the waste is managed efficiently.

If your deck is at 400mm intervals per length then it is best to work your design to this, e.g. if you create a deck that is 3.8m then you will have 200mm waste per length. If your deck is 10m wide that’s equivalent to (assuming 140 width boards) 69.44 x 200mm thus 13.88 linear metres which is 1.99m2 or £140 in waste materials.

The answer to save money here is to ask what lengths are available before designing the job or be prepared to allow for shorter lengths to be used or indeed accept the amount of waste as it is.

Different shapes create different amounts of waste The obvious choice for the deck that creates the least amount of waste is simple rectangles or squares that have been designed to match the exact length of the timber or composite that is available. If we consider shapes that deviate from this then one can assume the waste will mount up. The most costly shapes to deck are circles or indeed oval shapes, the waste generated is north of 15 per cent in most cases.

The circle shape can be designed with the boards (timber only) to be radially cut, this means the waste would be negligible as the boards then fit exactly to the radius of the circle with practically zero waste. Of course this looks the best but does add to the cost which in this case would be much more than a conventional www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Karl Harrison.indd 27

IT DOES PAY TO CONSIDER THE LENGTHS OF THE DECKING BOARDS SO THAT EVERY ELEMENT WORKS IN HARMONY AND THE WASTE IS MANAGED EFFICIENTLY deck to include a large amount of waste... oh dear, choices, choices.

Timber will always be timber Irrespective of where you make your timber purchase, I would also allow for fully sanding the deck upon completion. It is very difficult to manufacture a perfect timber finish on every single board, this is what I call the nature of the beast. Quite often you can see where the blade has bounced during manufacture showing on the boards as rough patches; these are then often rejected by the contractor and inevitably delay the project, ultimately costing more and reducing profit.

If the deck is small then allow for hand sanders, belt sanders are usually quicker. Larger deck areas can be sanded with an industrial upright floor sander which flies around a deck in no time. By using this approach, most of the issues will be sanded away thus resulting in a beautiful deck.

Surface or side fixing compared There is a discernible difference between side

fixing and general surface fixing, both in cost and aesthetics. Let’s ignore the look and consider the costs. For surface fixed you have to add on the consumables for the drill bits and countersink tools, plus you have to use substantial screws, this adds to your labour and material costs. Compare this to a side fixed deck (it doesn’t matter for this argument which one you use) where few additional tools or consumables are required, no pre-drilling and the side fix clips are much quicker to install.

The finish Now we have allowed for a fully sanded finish, this prepares the decking for a soaking in oil... happy decking.

ABOUT KARL HARRISON Karl Harrison runs Exterior Solutions Ltd based in Buckinghamshire, with his wife Lana. The company offers expert decking advice and is the sole UK distributor for high-end timber decking manufactured by Exterpark.

www.exteriordecking.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 27

15/07/2014 15:10

RW_91x240_Heaveatech_04_07_14:Layout 1 10/07/2014 08:59 Page 1

HEVEATECH ENGINEERED DECKING

We are now exclusively distributing eco friendly Heveatech engineered decking in the UK FSC Certified Cut from decommissioned rubber trees 15 year warranty Stable engineered board Reversible profile: smooth or danish Choice of widths: 145mm & 195mm Available in lengths of 3m, 4m & 4.9m

www.roundwood.com Tel: 01435 867 072 Round Wood | Newick Lane | Mayfield | East Sussex | TN20 6RG

ADVERTS.indd 177

15/07/2014 10:27

INTERVIEW

Let’s Hear it From

PATRICIA FOX For this month’s big interview, we visit Patricia Fox who heads up Aralia, a Hertfordshire based practice with a team of four designers and a Practice Manager Patricia welcomes us into the practice and we start by asking her how she became involved in the world of garden design. “It was probably a mid-life crisis.

I originally trained as a fashion designer and I also attended art school so there was always a creative side to me. I went into cosmetics and skincare, designing products and managing clients. I set up my own company and had trouble with a massive order we had taken. Our client cancelled the order and then reordered, but in the meantime I had to make someone redundant. It suddenly felt like I had no control over my life and destiny and I decided to take two years out.”

“That first summer I bought myself a greenhouse and started to propagate plants. A mum at the school gates recommended that I sign up for a course at Writtle College. So, around 12 years ago I signed up for a module on the Garden Design degree course and became obsessed. I completed two modules in the first year. When my children’s school organised an Auction of Promises to raise money, a friend and I offered a garden makeover by begging and borrowing from local nurseries! The lady who won the auction was so pleased she asked us to complete the rest of her garden. It was then I started to think about going into garden design professionally. I booked onto

I NEVER HAVE THE WHITE PAPER PROBLEM – MY PROBLEM IS TRYING NOT TO BE A SCATTER GUN! more courses and offered garden design in my spare time; I got really lucky and was helped by joining a networking referral group (BNI). Soon, one of the members had commissioned me to do his garden. Then in 2009 three members of the group sponsored me to do my first Chelsea garden ‘Freshly Prepped’. It would have all been so much harder had I not had their support and I would strongly recommend it to those new to the industry trying to find new clients.

“One of my early projects was a 13 acre site called St Clouds which I picked up through a local architect. It involved producing 80 construction drawings. To help I took on a student part time, www.prolandscapermagazine.com prolandscapermagazine.com

Let's Hear it From.indd 29

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 29

15/07/2014 14:45

INTERVIEW

Tristen Knight, who was finishing his diploma at Writtle. I subsequently took on an administrative person and we have now grown to a team of four designers and a practice manager. We are looking to grow the business and are keen to move into public realm projects now that we have two landscape architects on board.”

We talk about the structure of the business.

“We design and build, using regular subcontractors, but we order most of the materials and plants ourselves as we feel this affords us greater control. Commercial projects, however, tend to be design only, such as the commission for a series of 11 rooftop gardens at Chelsea Creek for St George (part of the Berkeley Homes Group) that we are currently involved with, which is, of course, terribly exciting.”

How does Patricia find working with dedicated contractors? “We develop good long-term relationships with our contractor base, but are looking for more contractors to work with us at the moment because we have so many projects going on. We work nationally and currently have projects in progress around the country. We have many projects on the go at one time in various stages and of different sizes: 30

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Let's Hear it From.indd 30

travels abroad where things are often approached differently. I also gain inspiration from other industries such as fashion, product design and interior design. A designer is like a sponge, continuously absorbing new ideas.”

We ask about sourcing new products and Patricia says “we’re probably in quite an enviable position getting inundated with catalogues and samples. Events such as FutureScape are key, particularly to introduce new materials in hard landscaping. We search constantly on websites and in magazines. We have been working with an artist for a few years on glass art panels for use in gardens. We now have a commission for these glass panels in the Chelsea Creek gardens. I can’t wait to see them installed! strong management is critical.”

Talk inevitably turns to her pricing and costs.

Where does the practice get its “As far as pricing is concerned, the focus is to be commissions from? “We don’t generally have innovative and coming up with great ideas. Our problems picking up new work. We had lots of residential gardens start from around £30-40k and enquiries which led to work after the Chelsea can go up to in excess of £200k. Great design 2012 garden, our website generates lots of doesn’t have to be expensive, and as a practice interest along with enquiries from the BALI and whilst we prefer using the best quality materials, SGD websites. Word of mouth and client there are always alternatives if costs need to be referrals are also key. contained. We always make sure the client is fully “We promote ourselves as creating informed about what is worthwhile in terms of the innovative design solutions for a wide range of materials we use.” projects both commercially and for private Is the client always clear about what charge is residential, from small urban projects to large for design work and what are build costs? “Yes. We country estates: each presenting their own recently had an interesting situation with a client – inherent challenges. We pride ourselves on we quoted for a £50k project including the design adapting to the uniqueness of the space and fees along with two or three other designers and the ability to overcome site limitations through everything went quiet. We later found out they good design. We are, as a thought our fees were too high practice, good at spatial and had commissioned another design, which is an area designer, paying £500 for an I LIKE TO that Writtle College excel at outline plan which they WORRY ABOUT teaching. We also embrace subsequently thought was THE DETAIL OF large projects where we absolute rubbish. They then could be working with came back and commissioned us THE DESIGN RATHER anything from half to to do the plan! We are confident THAN THE DETAIL OF 60 acres.” We ask about about our charges for design – MAINTENANCE maintenance here and but I do think colleges don’t teach Patricia explains this is students enough about this and something they don’t get certainly when I left Writtle I didn’t involved in but pass on to reliable contractors charge for initial consultations. I rarely have clients who are specialists in this area. object to charges related to the design We ask where Patricia gets her creativity consultation. There could be four or five hours of from. “Everywhere! I go to lots of art shows but work going into a fee proposal and preliminary often spot something whilst I’m driving and just design brief, so the nominal fee we do charge is stop the car to snap it. I get inspiration from my extremely good value for money. Turning that on its www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 14:45

INTERVIEW

head, many people will respect and value you more if you do charge a fee for consultations.”

So looking toward the future, what are the plans for the practice? “We’re trying hard to find a sponsor so that we can design a garden for Chelsea 2015.

We would have loved to have been there this year but a sponsor wasn’t forthcoming. I want to do something different and we do now have a potential sponsor for 2015 so I’m really hoping it comes to fruition. We’re also keen to move into public spaces and Edward Flaxman, our landscape architect who joined us last August is very experienced in this sector. We have also been appointed by the National Trust to redesign the Frame Yard at Mottisfont Abbey, alongside Tristen Knight, which is very exciting. It will be the first time in over 100 years that the National Trust have commissioned an external design team to overhaul one of their flagship gardens. Design work has commenced and the National Trust are in the throes of fund raising to secure the final for the work. It is envisaged that the gardens will be built autumn 2015/2016. (Further

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Let's Hear it From.indd 31

information can be found on the NT website).

“We’re also keen to work with more high-end property developers as we feel we can offer a fresh and innovative approach coupled with a solid and professional background. Commercial clients are pleasantly surprised by the level of our detailing. We will continue with our highly rewarding domestic projects and some international work too: another benefit of being seen at the Chelsea. 2012/13 saw our business doubling in size so we are also strengthening our systems to enable us to continue raising our industry profile.”

We ask Patricia who she admires within the industry, “Andy Sturgeon has always been someone to follow and try to catch up with! He’s done so much for the industry too which is great.

I love Martha Schwartz and Diarmuid Gavin who are rather way out but have pushed the industry forward. Steve Martino inspires me to work on landscapes in different climates and with different planting palettes and I adore Luciano Giubbilei for his spatial design and finishing touches.”

What are Patricia’s views on associations?

“Overall, I have a very positive view on associations. Designers such as Helen Elks-Smith and Amanda Patton did great things when they were at the SGD but my strong belief is that there should be a salaried person steering the association to carry things through. I’d like to see proper chartership for garden designers as I don’t think the public knows enough about what we do and it would help to raise standards”.

Finally, we talk about what Patricia likes to do when she’s not working. Her overall passion is

sailing: she and her husband own a boat which they moor in Spain. She sailed the boat from the UK over to Spain last year and enjoys harnessing the elements and appreciating the seascape. “We had one horrifically hairy night when I thought I was going to die in a six metre swell, I was terribly seasick and with only three of us on board I had to continue with my three hour watch, but it’s an amazing feeling when you accomplish something like that. I love my own garden and while it’s an unfinished project it has got my 2009 Chelsea garden installed in it. When I get the chance I can be out there for a 12 hour stint. I also have two wonderful daughters and enjoy running and skiing – I just love the outdoors really...”

1 The Chelsea 2012 garden ‘Rooftop Workplace of Tomorrow’ Photograph ©Ben Wetherall.

2W ednesday House, large countryside property in Hertfordshire.

3 Bowden Project, town house in Cheshire.

4 Maltese Road, town house in Essex. Winner of the SGD Award for best Small Residential Garden in 2012 and a BALI Landscape Design Excellence Award in 2010.

5A nother view of Wednesday House, large Countryside property in Hertfordshire.

ABOUT ARALIA GARDEN DESIGN Studio 2, New House Farm, Lower Sheering Road, Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire CM21 9LE

Tel: 01279 721461 Email: info@aralia.org.uk Web: www.aralia.org.uk

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 31

15/07/2014 14:46

Prac Brown V4 91mm x height 240mm._Layout 1 11/06/2013 13:12 Page 1

Elveden Instant Hedge

TM

The only true Instant Hedge

1.7 - 1.8m1high Portuguese Laurel at the nursery – 1.2m high Beech at the Nursery

We have 40,000 metres of certified UK provenance stock, across 15 species, available all year round that is now offered to the trade at a discounted rate.

Practicality Brown are the sole suppliers of the Elveden Instant Hedge TM

PRACTICALITY BROWN LTD Iver Stud, Swan Road, Iver, Bucks. SL0 9LA.

Tel: 01753 652022 E-mail: hedge@pracbrown.co.uk Web: www.pracbrown.co.uk

ADVERTS.indd 179

15/07/2014 10:57

SHOW GARDEN

THE ONE SHOW GARDEN Alexandra Noble, winner of The One Show competition to design a garden to be built at the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show, talks to us about her experience of the competition, her ideas behind the design inspired by the city of Bath, and the organisation and build of the garden itself

I

came across the competition on Twitter a couple of weeks before the deadline. As I had visited just one flower show before (Chelsea in 2012), I began to research past show gardens online using sites such as Pinterest to get an idea for how to best utilise the small space and which materials and plants would work within a £45,000 budget.

I decided to enter The One Show competition as garden design has always been an interest of mine.

For my final year dissertation I focused on the garden of Vaux-le-Vicomte by André Le Nôtre, principal gardener to Louis XIV. My research was concerned with the numerous perspective techniques and application of optical illusion in this garden and whether a contemporary designer may relate to these theories, centuries after their initial application. At university, many of my design projects have had a landscape architecture bias but I have never had the opportunity to design outdoor space at a more domestic scale. This 12m x 12m design proved equally as challenging as larger, urban-scale projects I have worked on.

The brief stipulated that the garden should reflect where we live and initially I began by considering Bath as a city of façades. Numerous iconic street fronts throughout the city such as the Royal Crescent and The Circus were designed by the architect John Wood, the Younger. Interestingly, once the frontage had been designed the public were able to purchase a length

www.prolandscapermagazine.com .com

Show Portfolio.indd 33

of the façade and then employ their own architect to build a house behind to their own specifications.

While the streets appear uniform and symmetrical, the rears are often a mixture of differing roof heights, juxtapositions and fenestration. These initial musings translated into the first design I produced which proposed a large square pool in the centre of the garden with tall grasses immediately surrounding it and naturalistic planting around the garden’s edges.

I resisted submitting this for my entry as I thought the garden would be far better enjoyed from within rather than from the edges.

Final design My final design is influenced by the hypocaust at the Roman baths; an innovative under floor heating system that the Romans devised which involved the floor being raised above the ground by regularly spaced columns so hot air from an adjacent furnace could circulate.

The nine pools of my Hampton Court Palace Flower Show garden suggest the regularity of the hypocaust columns and serve as a reminder of the city’s relationship with water. Bordering two edges of the site, the walkway allows one to appreciate the garden from a raised perspective as well as representing the hypocaust floor as if it had been cut away to reveal the system underneath.

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 33

15/07/2014 15:33

SHOW GARDEN

Stainless Steel, Agapanthus Albidus and Phlox paniculata ‘Dusterlohe’.

The concept for the planting is ‘a modern meadow’; the mix of forms and colours is intentionally unusual. Immediately surrounding each pool there are a series of tall grasses which represent the renowned facades of Bath stone.

Well defined flower heads and shrubs in the foreground contrast against a hazy ‘fluffy’ backdrop evocative of steam rising from the hot spring water.

Shortlist and build-up I got the call from Christine Walkden a couple of weeks after the deadline letting me know I was shortlisted to the final three. I was over the moon at the news! The next stage of the competition was to present our schemes to a judging panel made up of Christine Walkden, Adam Frost and Dave Green.

The day took place at the Cardiff Flower Show back in April.

Later that month, the shortlisted entrants were invited to appear live on The One Show where the winners were announced. I was ridiculously nervous at the time and my heart must have been beating at double speed in the run up to announcing the winner. I was in a state of shock when I heard my name. I could barely speak for about half an hour afterwards and speechlessness is not something that happens often with me I can assure you!

In addition to The One Show coverage, I was also featured on the BBC2 Hampton Court programme. I was interviewed by Matt Keightley, People’s Choice Award and Silver-gilt medal winner at Chelsea Flower Show 2014 and it was great to pick his brains for industry advice.

My mentor, Adam Frost helped me with planting composition and layout. It was interesting to see how plants placed at excavated level appeared very dense when viewed from the ground level above. Adam emphasised the importance of placing continuation plants evenly throughout the space to provide a coherent canvas ready for the highlight plants such as Aconitum 34

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Show Portfolio.indd 34

Meetings and organisation The main meeting in the run up to the show took place at the Chelsea Flower Show ground in May. During this meeting, practical adjustments to the design were made such as sinking the garden down in order that the planting and pool in the centre of the plot become more visible.

In addition, a copper beech hedge backdrop was decided upon to ensure the garden retains scale and is not dwarfed by the palace behind (also so the whimsical planting doesn’t get lost).

In order to meet budget constraints, the planting area has been reduced via the introduction of scree paths overlaid as a grid between the nine square pools. These paths also ensure the planting may be maintained for the duration of the show. As well as the meeting at Chelsea, constant emails were sent back and forth between David Dodd whose company The Outdoor Room constructed the garden, Adam Frost, and Dave Green, Hampton Court Show Manager, as well as suppliers.

Materials David Dodd was in charge of the budget and the sourcing of materials. Hortus Loci, Dingley Dell and Jacksons supplied the plants, Lovell Stone Group supplied chicksgrove spangle stone for the walkway, Majestic Trees for the hedge backdrop, CED Limited for Breedon gravel, Rolawn for turf, and Toby Clayton at Hot Metal Engineering supplied the pools.

I thoroughly enjoyed my Hampton Court experience and would relish the opportunity to design further gardens! Now I’ve had a taste for garden design, I don’t think there is any going back.

ABOUT ALEXANDRA NOBLE Alex has just finished a six year stint at Bath University where she studied Architecture. Whilst studying, she gained valuable industry experience working at firms such as Grant Associates and Stride Treglown. Prior to her degree she undertook an Art Foundation course at Brighton University specialising in three-dimensional design.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 15:36

INTRODUCING...

luxury on top pROVEN SCIENCE UNDERNEATH

The only lawn seed range gardens will ever need 01359 272000 | barenbrug.co.uk | info@baruk.co.uk

pro landscaper - June 14 _Layout 1 15/05/2014 15:55 Page 1 GV_ProLandscaper_186x118.indd 1

16/07/2014 11:08:22

Jacksons guarantees all its timber products for 25 years.

So when you see this badge, you are guaranteed a seamless installation by our team of specialists, top quality, great British design, and most of all, peace of mind.

We call it our badge of quality...

Call 0800 41 43 43 for a copy of our FREE brochures or to buy online visit jacksons-fencing.co.uk Jacksons Fencing Head Office 547 Stowting Common Ashford Kent TN25 6BN Tel 01233 750 393

ADVERTS.indd 159

Jacksons

Guaranteed Quality since 1947

16/07/2014 14:07

suppliers to the 2012 london olympic games and 2013–2014 transformation works

When you want wildflower spaces – we deliver

WW1 Centenary Poppies, Witney

As the UK’s leading dedicated wildflower specialist, we work with landscapers and specifiers to deliver guaranteed, dynamic wildflower environments, bringing your ideas to life.

Wildflower Turf Ltd offers you: • a low maintenance landscaping solution • a versatile product with a wide range of applications • biodiversity enhancement • unrivalled industry knowledge and support

Find out more

Interested in becoming an Accredited Installer?

Our next training days are 2nd, 16th and 23rd October.

t: 01256 771222 e: toby@wildflowerturf.co.uk www.wildflowerturf.co.uk

ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 275

17/07/2014 09:04

PORTFOLIO

MOUSTOWS MANOR Garden Art Designs A redesign of a small garden which needed to complement the large Georgian property and have an instantly established look

T

he clients, Mr and Mrs Peacock, requested a full redesign of their one acre garden to beautifully complement their Georgian High Street house, Moustows Manor. The house had recently been renovated to an exceptionally high standard and they wanted this to follow through into the garden. The garden needed to use mature planting and reclaimed materials in order to give the feel of an established garden.

paver seating area that was not in keeping with the property. It was on two levels with irregular boarders and rockery, along with diseased fruit

Design solution The original garden had a drive past the main rear entrance to an ugly modern garage and concrete

trees and overgrown conifers. This was to be completely removed leaving only the original garden walls, an espalier apple tree, yew tree and

ARTWORK AND LOCAL CRAFTSMANSHIP WERE TO BE INCORPORATED THROUGH SCULPTURE AND IRON WORK

hedging, and a beautiful old mulberry tree.

The new design had to use reclaimed traditional materials and building techniques along with high maintenance abundant planting.

Artwork and local craftsmanship were to be incorporated through sculpture and iron work.

The design solution therefore was to use reclaimed Yorkstone and clay pavers for the hard landscaping including recycled clay tiles from a recently demolished old greenhouse. Tile creasing, herringbone paver patterns and edging details all enabled the garden to have a highly crafted feel without being overly fussy.

The garden, having been partly sold off in

HIGHLY COMMENDED

Overall Design & Build www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Portfolio 1.indd 37

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 37

15/07/2014 16:11

PORTFOLIO

recent years, was relatively small for the style of the house and it was important to make the garden feel larger and to utilise all the available space both for entertaining and walking around.

The planting was required to be full with year round interest. The effect was to be of traditional herbaceous boarders with a large variety of plants ABOUT GARDEN ART DESIGNS Sue McLaughlin is a BALI accredited, degree qualified garden designer with 10 years’ experience designing and building contemporary and traditional gardens.

Garden Art Designs, an APL registered company, has established excellent relationships with suppliers and sub-contractors. “Through attention to detail and by understanding and managing our client’s expectations we are able to respond sensitively to our clients’ needs by harmoniously combining structure and form with a decorative use of colour and texture. We are able to manage the build of a new garden from start to finish, including design, tendering, sourcing bespoke features, sculpture, planting and maintenance”.

www.suemclaughlin.co.uk

38

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Portfolio 1.indd 38

for every season. As the boarders were relatively small in some areas this effect has been challenging to maintain, and required the use of seasonal bulbs and bedding plants.

As the house was on the village High Street privacy was an issue. This was resolved by using pleached hedging to screen upstairs neighbouring windows and new railings with climbers to obscure the view. The clients were less concerned about privacy and requested new iron gates and railings to replace the existing wooden fences and drive gates.

The garden is in a conservation area and the building is listed so planning permission was required for all building and tree work. The borders and lawns have steel edging and the garden has extensive lighting, drainage and irrigation systems. An existing bore hole was connected to the irrigation tank.

“A HIGHLY CRAFTED PIECE OF WORK WITH AN ABUNDANCE OF BEAUTIFUL PLANTING AND HARD LANDSCAPING. THE USE OF RECLAIMED MATERIALS GIVE THE FEEL OF AN ESTABLISHED GARDEN AND THE CONSTRUCTION STYLE IS SYMPATHETIC TO THE ORIGINAL FEATURES OF THE GEORGIAN HOUSE.” APL Awards judges The final design encircles the house with reclaimed Yorkstone and clay pavers leading through formal clipped box and pleached Pyrus ‘Chanticleer’ to colour themed borders, from white through to pastels leading up steps to a hot border and summer house. There is an attractive water feature, gazebo, sculptures and sunken seating area. Storage for bins and a log store are hidden from view by attractive ironwork and traditional cedar trellis. A new drive was created obscured by planting at the rear entrance to the house with parking for a number of cars. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 16:12

PORTFOLIO

1 Panoramic shots looking back into the garden. Campanula Medium Rose, Rosa Bonica and Philadelphus ‘Virginal’ have been planted. ining area off the kitchen 2D with bespoke iron work pergola planted with Clematis and Nepita.

3 Lawn edging detail. order between the lawn and 4B the drive with box hedging and pleached Pyrus ‘Chanticleer’.

5R eclaimed brick and yorkstone paving low steps.

Video footage of the garden under construction in March and June 2013: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYhcP5OOYro

6R eclaimed brick and yorkstone paving.

7T he Road Sweeper, one of four original sculptures from Architectural Heritage.

8D ining area with formal water trough and fountain where an ugly garage had once been.

9V iew of the house before work began on the landscaping.

REFERENCES Soft landscaping and maintenance

Stainless steel trellis

Susan McLaughlin Garden Art Designs

S3i Group

Fircroft, Barrow Hill, Henfield, BN5 9DN Tel: 01273 493 996 Email: sue@suemclaughlin.co.uk Web: www.suemclaughlin.co.uk

Web: www.s3i.co.uk Lighting Eclipse Lighting

(now working with Cloudburst)

Sub-contractors: Ground workers

Plants: large shrubs

Maguire Contractors

Web: www.griffinnurseries.co.uk

Horsham Tel: 01403 258 894

Provender

Griffin Nurseries

Web: www.provendernurseries.co.uk Hard landscaping Arun Landscapes

Birchfield Nursery

Tel: 01798 831045 Web: www.arunlandscapes.co.uk

Web: www.birchfieldnursery.com

Iron work

Trees, pleached pear and box hedging

T Miles & Son

Instant Landscapes

Henfield Tel: 01273 492 921

Plants: herbaceous Provender

Sculptures

www.provendernurseries.co.uk

Architectural Heritage

Web: www.architectural-heritage.co.uk

Birchfield Nursery

www.birchfieldnursery.com Irrigation

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Portfolio 1.indd 39

Cloudburst Irrigation

Prenplants

Web: www.cloudburstirrigation.co.uk

www.prenplants.co.uk

Metal edging

Summerhouse

Borderline by Kinley Systems

Scotts of Thrapston

Web: www.kinleysystems.com

www.scottsofthrapston.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 39

15/07/2014 16:16

PORTFOLIO

PURPLE HAZE Landscaping Solutions

An irregularly shaped rear garden was built for clients who wanted to use the space for gatherings, relaxation, dining, and barbecuing, as well as a children’s play area with plenty of storage

40

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Portfolio 2a.indd 40

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 16:23

PORTFOLIO

L

andscaping Solutions were approached during summer 2012 to design and build the rear garden, and subsequently the front garden, of a private property in Barnes, south-west London.

The rear garden necessitated a thoughtful approach to solving the problem of a long, irregular space. The clients love to be outdoors and wanted to use the space for family gatherings, relaxing, dining and barbecuing. They expressed a desire to incorporate a children’s play area, garden storage, and also a consideration of their passion for plants. The design of the garden was outsourced to Justin Greer Garden Design with everything else carried out in-house.

The brief The clients wanted the existing overgrown border, lawn and a dilapidated deck removed, and in their place we were instructed to create a neat, formal garden with entertaining and dining spaces close to the house; the design also had to include storage space for tools and children’s playthings towards the rear of the garden but these were not to have a negative aesthetic impact on the garden itself. Furthermore the clients wanted increased privacy from surrounding houses and gardens, and wanted to increase interest through the use of different levels and a water feature of some description.

A barbecue area was also requested.

The clients wanted space for the children to play but also a calm and tranquil garden area

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Portfolio 2a.indd 41

PROJECT DETAILS Project value Rear garden £50,000 Front garden £20,000 Build time Rear garden: 6 weeks Front garden: 3 weeks Size of project 10m x 20m

with multiple plants. So a play area screened from the main garden was suggested, with the planting themed in subdued and calming colours – the client expressed an interest in plants and the ongoing general maintenance of the planting.

Finally we had to design something to deal with the rain water running off the rear extension.

The solution After removing the lawn and deck a hardwood deck was installed at the same level as the interior floor, providing a comfortable transition between house and garden. No shoes or socks are required to be able to comfortably use the barbecue or to sit out and enjoy the weather. To provide a neat transition between the deck and the dining area sawn Yorkstone topped benches were installed, these also provided comfortable seating for the clients. Paths also help to link the garden together as a whole, they consist of sawn York flags set amongst polished pebbles, which provide contrasting texture.

The dining area contains a sawn Yorkstone terrace, raised brick planters and water feature, a further sawn Yorkstone topped bench and sumptuous planting. The stone bench tops are set on rendered and painted block work. Bench tops, raised beds, water feature and hedging all finish at the same height bringing a sense of calm formality to this area. The water feature’s sump is hidden beneath polished pebbles and is reinforced to allow foot traffic. The formal feel is accentuated by Box hedging and pleached Hornbeams, although the restraint is lifted by the flowers and foliage of various herbaceous plants in season. To create the sense of calm tranquillity that the clients requested the planting palette

was quite limited, in the main to green/silver foliage and white or purple flowers.

A shed and large trampoline for the children are screened away from the main living areas by means of hardwood lateral screens. These functional items do no, therefore, detract from the overall ambience of the garden. Synthetic turf was installed beneath the trampoline to provide a neat and safe surface. Hardwood screens were installed along boundaries to provide height and privacy.

Hard landscaping areas drain to the borders and path aggregates to solve the problem of the rainwater runoff. Finally additional lighting makes the space functional during hours of darkness and provides drama in winter.

The resulting garden has a timeless appeal.

The overall feel is one of elegance and understatement, and there is strong geometry.

Buxus topiary and hedging bring a calming structure to the space and this is enhanced with generous uplifting herbaceous planting relying on a limited palette of colours. A central Amelanchier with an open form allows views through from the house. Height and privacy is brought to the garden by means of pleached Carpinus, tall, thin Quercus ilex and hardwood screening.

The strong geometry is also reflected in the hard landscaping which highlights

1 An early summer view to the house.

2 The trampoline, which is screened from the main living area by hardwood lateral screens.

3 The finished garden bathed in a soft evening light.

4 Looking across the dining area.

5 Sawn York flag paths amongst polished pebbles.

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 41

15/07/2014 16:24

PORTFOLIO

quality British materials in the form of reclaimed London stock bricks and sawn Yorkstone paving and bench seats.

Polished pebbles flanking the paths add further texture.

The interior floor level is continued into the garden through the use of decking which extends to form an informal seating and dining area next to the house. A further sawn York terraced dining area features a brickwork water feature with a sawn York spill. There is a unity of material and an awareness of the local vernacular throughout. At night the garden is brought to life and into extended use by the inclusion of an outdoor lighting system.

The success of the project led us to be invited to design and build the front garden which was completed in August 2013.

Difficulties encountered on site ● The space was difficult to deal with being an asymmetric

triangular arrangement. ● The access was lengthy and tight along passages and

through gates. ● Builders were on site carrying out work on the house

whilst the landscaping was taking place. There was a cellar being dug out simultaneously with our work and as such we had to build the deck prior to the light well going in next to the house. This involved lots of discussion, collaboration and forward planning. ● The east boundary wall was spent and needed to be replaced prior to us starting any of the garden works. We recycled the bricks from this to build the raised beds and water feature. ● The house roof drains, via hidden pipe-work, along the east boundary and into a soak-away unit positioned in the ground beneath the trampoline. This involved careful planning and accurate installation. We were concerned that we should not have the unit too close to the boundary wall to avoid undermining the footing of this old and potentially unstable wall.

ABOUT LANDSCAPING SOLUTIONS Landscaping Solutions is a Surrey based landscape design and build company dedicated to creating and maintaining first class private gardens throughout London, Surrey and the South East. The company has a particular emphasis on helping designers and their client’s to plan, manage and realise projects with minimum fuss and maximum attention to detail. Managing Director Ben West is a Capel Manor trained garden designer and horticulturalist with lengthy experience working in both the horticultural and construction sectors. The company’s most recent honour is a 2013 BALI Award to go alongside its 2012 RHS Gold medal and 2011 BALI Principle Award.

www.landscapingsolutionsltd.co.uk

42

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Portfolio 2a.indd 42

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 16:26

PORTFOLIO

1 The barbecue area.

2 Candlesticks in the garden.

3 The water feature.

4 The garden in late summer.

5 View to the house before.

6P rior to furniture being added to the new garden.

7A look out across the older layout of the garden.

REFERENCES Landscape contractor

Structural plants

Reclaimed bricks

Water feature equipment

Landscaping Solutions Limited

Evergreen Exterior Services

London Reclaim Brick Merchants

Landscapeplus

Hill Park Rose and Plant Centre, Woodstock Lane North, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 5NH Tel: 02082 412 402 Email: info@landscapingsolutionsltd.co.uk Web: www.landscapingsolutionsltd.co.uk

21 Croydon Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3BW Tel: 02087 709 200 Email: info@evergereenext.co.uk Web: www.evergreenext.co.uk

Coombe Works, Coombe Road, Neasden, London NW10 0EB Tel: 020 8452 1111 Email: sales@lrbm.com Web: www.lrbm.com

Unit 1-2, Kemble Business Park, Malmesbury, Crudwell, SN16 9SH Tel: 01666 577 577 Web: www.landscapeplus.com General building materials and supplies

Herbaceous plants

Timber

Garden design

W. Godfrey and Sons

Champion

Justin Greer

40 Cowper Rd, SW19 1AB Tel: 02082 863 376 Email: info@justingreer.co.uk Web: www.justingreer.co.uk

Hook Mill Nursery, Hook Mill Lane, Lightwater, Surrey GU18 5UD Tel: 01276 471 757 Email: sales@wgodfrey.co.uk Web: www.wgodfrey.co.uk

Champion House, 205-209 Burlington Road, New Malden, Surrey KT3 4NB Tel: 020 8949 1621 Email: marketing@championtimber.com Web: www.championtimber.com

Paving and bench tops

Pebbles

London Stone

CED Stone Thames Valley Branch

Shed

Trout Road, West Drayton, Middlesex UB7 7RS Tel: 01895 422 411 Email: sales@cedltd.co.uk Web: www.cedltd.co.uk

196-200 London Road, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 3LD Tel: 020 8640 3339 Email: enquiries@the-shed-centre.co.uk Web: www.the-shed-centre.co.uk

Vermeulens Garden Centre, Horton Road, Stanwell Moor, TW19 6AE Tel: 01784 455 433 Email: info@londonstone.com Web: www.londonstone.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Portfolio 2a.indd 43

Travis Perkins Trading Co

Lodge Way House, Lodge Way, Harlestone Road, Northampton NN5 7UG Web: www.travisperkins.co.uk

Shed Centre

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 43

15/07/2014 16:27

PORTFOLIO

SPIRA-LIGHT Robert Charles Landscapes An existing garden was renovated to make it safer for small grandchildren, and the terrace was extended to allow for more year-round use

COMMENDED

Project Value £25,000 - £50,000

44

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Portfolio 3.indd 44

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 16:00

PORTFOLIO

ABOUT ROBERT CHARLES LANDSCAPES Robert Charles Landscapes is a design and build company based in the South East that has earned a reputation for creating stylish, modern landscapes that are a fusion of contemporary design, natural materials and innovative planting. They built a Gold medal garden at the RHS London Plant & Design Show 2012 and had two gardens commended at this year’s APL Awards.

www.robertcharleslandscapes.co.uk

T

he clients were a middle aged marking the new features out, we had to extend couple who wanted to make the the boundary wall so that the new seat could garden a safer place for their wrap into it. grandchildren by removing the We set out the footings for the seat/feature existing pond. They wanted to extend the size of wall/planter configuration, we could only get the terrace and in doing so, the a micro digger in amount of time they could through the A GREAT SCHEME spend in the garden. pedestrian door to SHOWCASING A GOOD We suggested a larger hard the back of the TRANSFORMATION OF standing, incorporating built-in garage but this SPACE – THE CURVED seats and an exterior fireplace. In was enough to save replacement of the pond, we us hours of STEP AND EXPERTLY suggested a bespoke water backbreaking work, LAID PAVING CREATE feature at waist height. We felt once the walls were A PLEASING FLOW TO the need to soften the large up to a certain height THE SCHEME amount of hard landscaping we paved and with some flora and included pockets of planting across 1 Sawn sandstone terrace with bespoke water feature, made from polished marble pebbles. the different levels.

2 Lit at night.

Once the design had 3 Pockets of planting to soften the hard been okayed we landscaping. removed the existing 4 A more child friendly garden now that the pond and set pond has gone. about 5 A view back to the house.

6 An aerial view from the top of the sloping wall.

7 The water feature in all its glory.

PROJECT DETAILS Project value £40,000 Build time 12 weeks Size of project 300m²

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Portfolio 3.indd 45

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 45

15/07/2014 15:59

PORTFOLIO

REFERENCES Design & build

Plants

Robert Charles Landscapes

The Secret Garden

203, Long Riding, Basildon Essex SS14 1QT Tel: 01268 272 101 Email: info@robertcharleslandscapes.co.uk Web: www.robertcharleslandscapes.co.uk

Tel: 01268 272101

Water feature pebbles CED

728, London Rd, Grays RM20 3LU Tel: 01708 867 237 Email: sales@ced.ltd.uk Web: www.ced.ltd.uk Paving and fireplace Lower Barn Farm

London Rd, Rayleigh, Essex SS6 9ET Tel: 01268 780 991 Email: sales@lowerbarnfarm.co.uk Web: www.lowerbarnfarm.co.uk Turf Rolawn – Supreme Turf & Soils Ltd

Greenleas Farm, London Road, Billericay, Essex CM12 9HP Tel: 0845 604 6056 Web: www.stsessex.co.uk

Plant hire Rhino Plant Hire

Place Farm, Place Farm Lane, Doddinghurst, Essex CM15 0JA Tel: 01277 372 626 Email: info@rhinosplanthire.co.uk Web: www.rhinosplanthire.co.uk Light QVS Electrical Wholesale Ltd

Unit 28, Yardley Business Park, Miles Gray Road, Basildon, Essex SS14 3GL Tel: 01268 282 800 Web: www.qvsdirect.com Render High Definition Renders

55 Vangehill Drive, Basildon, SS16 4DB Tel: 07565 969 541 Email: hd_renders_ltd@hotmial.com Web: www.hdrendersltd.co.uk

incorporated drainage. from our nursery were planted and mulched using Once the walls and block the same pebbles as the water feature. work were up we started to The build of the garden took place between cut all of the radial February and May coping stones/ 2013, during this period WE SUGGESTED A steps and seat we had some terrible LARGER HARD tops, these were laid weather, including STANDING, and then the render torrential rain and snow.

INCORPORATING could be applied.

We worked through The water feature these conditions in BUILT-IN SEATS AND was made from scratch order to have the AN EXTERIOR using polished black garden completed on FIREPLACE marble pebbles stuck schedule. with tile adhesive to two APL Judges fibre-glassed polystyrene hemispheres, commented “A great scheme showcasing a once they were set and grouted we good transformation of space – the curved step stuck the two together and grouted the and expertly laid paving create a pleasing flow to joint using a few extra pebbles to lose the the scheme”. join line. The interior of the reservoir was also fibre-glassed and the lighting installed 1 The garden before, showing the existing pond and at this stage. drab planting.

A gas engineer commissioned the fire, the 2 Footings dug for the sloped seat, on a cold winters day. paving was sealed and pointed using wide joint 3 Curved brickwork walls finished, ready to be cut flexible tile grout. and rendered.

The garden lights were then installed and plants 4 The finished product.

46

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Portfolio 3.indd 46

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 16:00

READY-SPACED, READY TO PLANT, READY WHEN YOU ARE.

.

READYHEDGE

RH 'Production Dept' Pro Landscaper:RH Pro Landscaper landscape

13/11/13

Our production department.

18:02

Page 1

The Readyhedge range of instant hedging is unrivalled in the UK, produced to the highest standards and can be delivered just about anywhere to order.

For more information, call today on 01386 750585 Email lindsay@readyhedgeltd.com or visit www.readyhedgeltd.com

Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance Soft Landscape Workshop - 17 September 2014

“Designing for the ease of maintenance” and “Using maintenance for the sustainability of your design” are topics being discussed at Palmstead’s 2014 Workshop. Join in this perennially popular event attracting some 300 Landscape and Design Professionals: Landscape Architects, Garden Designers, Contractors and Green-space Managers.

Speakers include: Dr Noel Kingsbury (author and plant researcher); Richard Sneesby (Landscape Architect); Colin Crosbie (RHS Curator Wisley); Noel Farrar (Landscape Institute President); Dr Phil Askew (Olympic Park Sponsor) with supporting cast Nick Coslett from Palmstead and Andrew Kauffman (Quadron, the grounds maintenance specialists). Plus info bursts on Carbon Offsetting and recent plant health research along with our showcase exhibition.

Tickets cost £30 (including VAT and buffet lunch). Approximate running time 09:00 to 16:00. There will be a coach shuttle from Ashford International Station to the Ashford International Hotel, Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford, Kent, TN24 8UX. For more details and to book your place visit www.palmstead.co.uk

Events 2014

ADVERTS.indd 153

15/07/2014 11:48

ADVERTS.indd 155

17/07/2014 09:06

NURSERY

NURSERY NEWS Olé Olé Olé – the olives have arrived!

The Plantation Nursery has recently taken a delivery of a whole lorry load of beautiful olives – all shapes and sizes to suit all garden and budgets.

Keen to hunt down the largest variety, the best specimens and the best deal for their customers, Alison Durnford went on a buying trip to an area in southern Spain which specialises in olives. The smaller plants are grown from cuttings and

grafting while the larger older specimens are extracted under special license from land in development areas. To ensure the best stock for their customers they individually tag the plants on nurseries all over Europe.

In the south of the UK olives have proven their hardiness – both small and large sizes have thrived despite the cold winters of a few

Wyevale Nurseries re-brands for a ‘customer driven era’ Wyevale Nurseries unveiled its new branding, logo and website last month to capitalise on its rich heritage and to appeal to the modern buyer. The company says it is bringing its image very much into the 21st century while also building on the knowledge and expertise developed during the past 86 years.

Sales and Marketing Director, Adam Dunnett said: “This year we have seen some significant changes to the company, we have re-structured www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Nursery News.indd 49

from three separate businesses into one, with our container plant, tree and transplant (hedging) companies now all trading as Wyevale Nurseries.

“In celebration of this we are launching a new logo, which encompasses all the strengths of Wyevale Nurseries. We have also developed a new brand for our point

years back. In warm summers they may flower and fruit – but customers are always warned not to expect to be able to make olive oil! Olive trees can bring a touch of the Mediterranean to almost any garden scheme and thrive in well-drained soil in both containers and in the ground. And yes, they did have tapas for lunch! www.theplantationnursery.co.uk

of sale, with a fresh, contemporary look – where the plant image is king.”

“Our new logo gives us a modern contemporary look, representing all the aspects of Wyevale Nurseries, trees, fields of transplants and colourful container plants, and highlights our long and illustrious heritage too.

“This signals the start of an exciting new chapter for our business. We are a successful company and as such we can never stand still. Our new brand is part of our drive to lead the industry into a fast moving, flexible, customer driven era.” www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

NURSERY NOTES

Finally the clouds delivered as nothing beats steady gentle rainfall to irrigate our plants, and really penetrate the pots.

Although we have plenty of irrigation water in the reservoirs, now we harvest 60-70 per cent of the rain falling on the beds.

There is lots of good colour on the nursery especially in the perennials areas, as Hemerocallis start to flower with a new bloom each day.

The later summer flowering plants are more appealing – they tend to be taller in stature and impact. With their origins in the prairies; Echinacea and Rudbeckia are in bud and the Heleniums have been blooming for a week and with continued moisture they will flower for many weeks.

As long as it gets sufficient water, the plant will enjoy dry spells and warm sunshine too.

Woody plants need help in their first growing season, especially trees. A good soak once a week is often better than a few drips daily. These plants are still growing and in their period of peak water demand, this will only ease as we get to September.

Our Workshop on 17 September is aiming to help designers keep their schemes in tip top condition by discussing maintenance and management issues. See our website for full details and the many leading speakers who will be presenting. www.palmstead.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 49

15/07/2014 14:35

NURSERY

PLANTSMAN’S PLOT A round-up of trees and plants available at some of the country’s best nurseries To appear in Plantsman’s Plot, please send your plant of the month, details and image to editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk

Have you ever noticed how some things just sound better in French and some things just shine through no matter what the mother tongue? Hydrangea paniculata ‘Vanille Fraise’ (Vanilla Strawberry to you and me) manages to do both with great aplomb.

Conical flowers arranged like a posh cauliflower emerge white in colour and change to pink / red along the flowerhead – giving a bicolour effect to the flowers. Reliable in flowering and happy in a north facing situation – this happy Hydrangea will cheer up a shady corner. Match the cheery blooms with excellent autumn colour on a well branched plant and ‘Voila’ – Hydrangea paniculata ‘Vanille Fraise’. www.provendernurseries.co.uk

Introduced in 1734, magnolia grandiflora Southern Magnolia is a wellknown native of the USA, naturally ranging from North Carolina to Florida, Arkansas and Texas. From being associated with south facing wall plantings, this wonderful evergreen has crept into the wider landscape in southern England in recent years with the advent of warmer summers and not so punishing winters. Capable of becoming a medium to large tree if given full sun and a sheltered position, it is a magnificent, round headed specimen. The large, cream flowers, which are delicately scented, are borne through summer and into autumn, set against dark green, almost leathery leaves. It does best in rich, fertile soil and, given this, will tolerate lime. www.barcham.co.uk The Golden Catalpa, or Catalpa bignonioides ‘Aurea’, is a truly magnificent tree. Smaller and wider than the species, ‘Aurea’ bears striking, greenish-yellow foliage unfolding red in spring. In early summer the large leaves filter the sunlight, bathing everything below in golden light. Come mid-summer the crown is then covered by panicles of white flowers followed by attractive, pendulous, green bean pods. Catalpas are tolerant of a wide range of soils but perform best in moist, fertile loams.

They also cope well with pollution, making them a great city tree, but avoid planting them on windy sites as the leaves easily tear. www.majestictrees.co.uk

50

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Plantsmans Plot.indd 50

A group of compact, bushy shrubs, Escallonia are superb for adding a bit of colour to the garden, and are particularly useful in coastal locations thanks to their high tolerance of salt-laden winds. Being medium to fast growing, these evergreen plants are fantastic for use as hedging. Dense growth gives excellent screening and privacy all year round, with the dark green leaves creating a fantastic backdrop for any setting. Small, bright flowers ranging from white to red are produced prolifically from June through to late August, often emitting a honey like fragrance. Best grown in moist, well-drained soil in full sun. www.colesnurseries.co.uk

One of the biggest and one of the best, Agapanthus umbellatus ‘Ovatus’, commonly known as the giant African blue lily, adds a touch of the exotic to any garden with its tall architectural stunning blue flowers held aloft above strappy blue foliage. Flowering in late summer this herbaceous perennial requires well-drained soil in a sunny spot.

Although thriving outside in the south it will require some protection in winter in colder areas. On my mother’s recommendation I feed mine in the spring with tomato feed – although not mentioned in the text books, this high potassium feed definitely does the job! www.theplantationnursery.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 14:12

NURSERY

Ligustrum ovalifolium Privet hedging has fallen out of fashion in recent years, yet for many customers it is the first option that springs to mind when they say that they want a hedge. Easy to maintain and tolerant of a wide range of conditions, including the salt winds of coastal sites, Privet is in option which should never be overlooked. At Wykeham Mature Plants we grow individual Privet plants in 36ltr containers at a height of four foot and above. www.wykehammatureplants.co.uk

HEDGING Osmanthus burkwoodii This is a severely underrated hedging plant. The dense, dark green, evergreen foliage can be trimmed up into a really strong formal shape or left to make a looser but still dense hedge.

This variety also has small white very highly scented flowers on the early spring which gives added interest. It can be used to make a good hedge anywhere between 60cm high and 150cm tall. www.readyhedge.com

175/200 C10 @ C45 6/8 stock

Carpinus betulus Looking for an instant hedge up to 2.0m in height?

Then check out Coles’ Carpinus betulus 175/200 C10 trees. It has attractive fluted grey bark, the yellow autumn leaves dry and are held through the winter, providing a screening element all year round. Supplied caned and tied with a strong central leader, they are heavily feathered and ready to plant all year round. These can be planted from two to four plants per metre (linear) dependent on budget and the desired density and effect you require. For a greater impact we also offer a C45 option up to 3.0m in height. www.colesnurseries.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Plantsmans Plot.indd 51

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 51

15/07/2014 14:14

NURSERY

NURSERY FACTFILE MEET THE TEAM

Ja m ie

Nig el

07423 433 929

07436 039 277

“

“

We are one of the UK’s leading suppliers of hedging plants, in sizes from 10cm to 4m - delivered from our Lancashire nursery direct to your site.

ABOUT Originally established for the domestic online retail market, now almost 20 per cent of turnover is from the landscape trade. The company offers landscapers immediate quotes, extended opening hours, committed delivery dates with morning delivery if required, superior quality plants, excellent quality service, nationwide. All popular species and sizes kept in stock at all times.

Prunus rotundifolia

HEDGES DIRECT J9

(cherry laurel)

TOP 5 BESTSELLERS Evergreen

J29

er

Best sell

J1

Leyland

Prunus rotundifolia (cherry laurel)

2

Taxus baccata (yew)

3

Prunus lusitanica (Portugese laurel)

4

Buxus sempervirens (common Box)

5

Our typical client buys hedging plants online though often calls for experienced advice from Nigel and Jamie as to the appropriate options for particular planting situations. On many occasions the client is looking for a one-stop package that includes, trees, shrubs, herbaceous perennials, turf and topsoil, all of which we are able to help with.

“I’ve been delighted with Hedges Direct, they’re reliable in both their delivery arrangements and the quality of their stock. Deliveries on the day and at the time that I need them.”

Helen Voisey, MSGD & BALI Registered Designer, Helen Voisey Garden Design, Leeds “All of the plants were of a great standard. Customer service and delivery were spot on too.”

Swansea City Football Club

52

A6

M61

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Nursery Factfile FINAL.indd 52

Euxton

A581 A581

Deciduous

Chorley

Fagus sylvatica (green beech)

Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’

CLIENTS

J2

2

Crataegus monogyna (hawthorn)

3

Carpinus betulus (hornbeam)

4

Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’ (purple beech)

5

Ligustrum ovalifolim (privet) (semi-evergreen)

Species rich, mixed native instant hedging in 1m preformed lengths.

Under-planted with wildflowers ensuring a minimum of 12 species in every 6m of hedging – great for BREEAM scores!

LOCATION Our nursery is situated on the outskirts of Euxton, with the nearby M6 and M61 offering easy access. Nursery visits should be arranged by appointment only.

CONTACT

Most un

Five Acres Nursery, Dawbers Lane, Euxton, PR7 6EE Web: www.hedgesdirect.co.uk Email: jamie@hedgesdirect.co.uk nigel@hedgesdirect.co.uk (Nursery visits by appointment only)

usual www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 14:06

FINDWILLOW

PLANTS LIMITED Landscapers’ “Take Away”

Fine quality landscape & building

© Harpur Garden Images

Established since 1989

“Take Away” comprises over 5 Acres of Quality Trees and Shrubs for immediate collection.

3L Shrubs to Large Specimens Architectural Plants Topiary Mature trees Evergreen and native hedging Quick checkout- take away today Showhouse Service available

Contact Us Today tel: 01276 855855 fax: 01276 855055

Award winning landscape construction throughout the South of England

Sales@plants.co.uk www.plants.co.uk

w w w. f i n d w i l l o w. c o . u k Walnut Hill Nurseries • Walnut Hill Road Gravesend • Kent DA13 9HL Tel: 01474 708 106 Email: office@findwillow.co.uk

the familiar ... and the

PRODUCTS

PROVENDER

Woodcock Lane, Chobham, Woking, Surrey GU24 8TS

diverse

The Landscape Centre, Leydenhatch Lane, Swanley, Kent BR8 7PS Tel: 01322 662315/662130 Web: www.provendernurseries.co.uk

ADVERTS.indd 169

15/07/2014 11:30

NURSERY

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS Getting a good picture is not about having the latest camera, it’s about following a few basic rules.

It’s said that your first 100,000 pictures will be your worst, so practice. Jonathan Ward offers some tips

Three is a magic number – the rule of thirds The most pleasing images are those in which the subjects are aligned on the thirds in each picture.

Position horizons one third up or down the height of the image, and people one third in from the left or right. Likewise, if you’re snapping a head shot, position the eyes so they’re one third down from the top of the frame. Some cameras give you the option of displaying an overlaid grid on the rear LCD to help you line up your subjects along these lines.

If yours does, go one step further and put key elements on the points where the horizontal and vertical lines intersect.

Look at the eyes, not around the eyes, look into the eyes Ever wondered why so many magazines have faces on the cover? Human nature is to connect with the person through the eyes, it’s the same with a picture.

Get up early, stay out late In simple terms photography is about painting with light. Light is what gives your pictures shadows, shape and texture, and often the best light is that which appears at either end of the day when the sun is lower in the sky. At these times of day it casts longer shadows, which in turn pick out the small details.

By shooting early in the morning and late in the afternoon, you’ll achieve far more interesting results than you would at high noon when you’ll spend more time controlling the light coming into your lens than you will manipulating your subjects to best exploit the shadows.

Direct the picture Become a picture director, not just a passive picture-taker. A picture director takes charge, by picking the location: “Everybody go outside to the garden.” A picture director adds props: “Girls, can you pick up your spades.” A picture director arranges people: “Now move in close, and lean toward the camera.” Most pictures won’t be that involved, but you get the idea: take charge of your pictures and win your own best picture awards.

Embrace the grey day Never be put off by an overcast day, the softer light you get is perfect for shooting plants, flowers and foliage as it dampens the contrasts we were championing in our previous step. This allows the camera to achieve a more balanced exposure and really bring out the colours in petals.

54

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Ginger.indd 54

Move in close If your subject is smaller than a car, take a step or two closer before taking the picture and zoom in on your subject. The aim is to fill the picture area with the subject you are photographing. Up close you can reveal telling details, like perfect pointing of the detail in a flower.

Don’t get too close or your pictures will be blurry.

The closest focusing distance for most cameras is about three feet, or about one step away from your camera. If you get closer than the closest focusing distance of your camera (see your manual to be sure), your pictures will be blurry.

The megapixel myth With many high-end cameras now sporting relatively modest pixel counts, there are some manufacturers who continue to cram 16 megapixels or more on tiny sensors that can’t cope with high levels of incoming light. Pay for quality, not quantity, remembering that as few as 10 megapixels is plenty for printing at A3. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

15/07/2014 14:00

Pro-Landscaper SBPG.qxp_Pro-Landscaper 15/07/2014 14:54 Page 1

FREE Sample Service FULL DETAILS ON OUR WEBSITE

UK DELIVERY NATIONWIDE • CALL FOR DETAILS

Old York & Indian Paving Garden Walling & Rockery Chippings, Setts & Cobbles

...in Hampshire.

We g u a r a n t e e r e a l q u a l i t y, great value, and tremendous choice. With over 40 years experience we can help you create your perfect garden.

Building Stone & Flint Fireplace & Hearth Stones Bark Mulch & Playground Bark New & Reclaimed Railway Sleepers

TO COMPLEMENT, WHY NOT USE OUR...

LT D .

023 8061 3178

Quarry Yard, Woodside Avenue, Boyatt Wood Ind Est, Eastleigh, Hants SO50 9ES

ADVERTS.indd 171

Smiths’ 8mm Self Binding Path Gravel is perfect for:• Garden paths and driveways • Countryside walks • Parking areas • Cycle paths • Lovely Cotswold colours • It is easy to lay • Attractive yet inexpensive CALL NOW FOR FULL DETAILS

COTSWOLD DRY STONE WALLING • DECORATIVE AGGREGATES OTHER PRODUCTS AND SERVICES • RECYCLED AGGREGATES SANDS & GRAVELS • CRUSHED & GRADED LIMESTONE SITE EXCAVATION & GROUND WORKS • HAULAGE & PLANT Full product details are on our website or please phone our Sales department.

Delivery

www.smithsbletchington.co.uk

LOOSE • BULK BAGS • PALLETS

01869 331281

Delivery throughout the UK Please contact us for details

Smiths & Sons (Bletchington) Limited, Enslow, Kidlington, Oxfordshire OX5 3AY

16/07/2014 11:22

STONE

STEEL

COMPOSITES

www.oxfordplanters.co.uk • Specialist manufacturers of British handcrafted internal and external.

• Planters and Furniture.

• Available in: Oak, Iroko or Accoya; painted in your choice of colour.

THE PLANTER SPECIALIST We offer a wide range of stocked designs, plus a trusted bespoke manufacturing service for projects large and small.

T. 01934 522617 W. WWW.IOTAGARDEN.COM

• We also offer a bespoke design and build service

For more information, email info@oxfordplanters.co.uk or call 01608 683022 All products manufactured in the Cotswolds using sustainable timber

Star Rubber Environmental Ltd The UK’s only manufacturer of TigerMulch Rubber Chippings.

Made of 100% recycled rubber.

An ideal landscaping product that is permeable for tree surrounds, paths, slopes, erosion control etc.; Safety surface for playgrounds within schools/nurseries, public parks, skate parks, care homes, hospitals.

Surfacing specialists for the installation of: - TigerMulch Resin Bound - Wet pour - Graphic designs - Star Kerb

- Cap Kerb - Argi-Flex - New product - Safety Tiles/Matts (For Swing etc: wear areas)

Star Rubber are proud to announce their new product Argi-Flex. A permeable product that has been developed to resemble resin stone but is made out of 100% Recycled Rubber an ideal product for pathways and erosion.

This product will compliment our TigerMulch Product, you then need to decide would you prefer a Bark look or Stone look both giving an all year weather permitting safety surface.

Surfaces are BSEN1177 & 7188 Tested and support a 5 year Warranty.

Please contact us for more details: Belmont House, Aller, Langport, Somerset, TA10 0QN T: 01458 253 377 E: tigermulch@aol.com W: www.star-rubber.com

ADVERTS.indd 175

16/07/2014 09:27

LATEST PRODUCTS

TRADITIONAL STYLE PLANTERS The Somerville This chic continental style planter would suit any rural country setting. This gracefully scooped planter topped with lead can be made in oak, iroko and left to weather to beautiful silver grey or for a more modern feel made in AccoyaTM and painted any colour. Available in three sizes 60cm, 75cm, and 90cm.

WWW.OXFORDPLANTERS.CO.UK Flagstone Tall Taper Planter Flagstone planters recreate the texture and appearance of well-worn and weathered old stone in a lightweight material. Each planter is subtly different as the pattern of surface pitting and colour variation is unique. These containers look particularly well on natural stone paving and gravel, and suit all but the most contemporary gardens. Cubes and low taper shapes also available.

• Material: Resin based composite • Surface: Smooth, but indented with striations and pitting • Suitability: Residential and light commercial • Comes with drainage hole (can be sealed on request) • Frostproof guarantee WWW.IOTAGARDEN.COM

The Poppy Bowl Shown here in rusty finish, 118cm (D) x 58cm (H), also available in hammered slate finish. Urbis create pure, sculptural forms with integral colours and finely textured surfaces that will stand in their own right as beautiful objects, yet complement the planting and harmonise with the surrounding architecture. The stunning Poppy Bowl has been shortlisted for the SGD Product of the Year 2014.

WWW.URBISDESIGN.CO.UK

Corten Steel ‘Atlas Cylinder’ Planter These high quality corten steel planters are a beautiful feature in any garden and can transform an ordinary setting into something really special. Corten steel naturally weathers to develop a protective, striking, rust appearance which blends in well to a country garden setting. All of the corten steel planters are made of 2mm thick corten steel and this product is available in three sizes: 60cm, 80cm and 100cm.

WWW.THEPOTCO.COM

Traditional Planters Arthur Jack’s steel planters are the result of a great deal of research by a couple of keen gardeners, who were unable to find exactly what they wanted for their own garden. Each planter is hand-crafted in England from heavy gauge galvanised steel for long life. They are set on feet to keep them clear of the ground and have a drilled base to aid drainage. All planters are then treated after manufacture to give them a delightful aged patina. Available in three sizes of planter (65cm, 50cm, and 40cm) and a trough.

WWW.ARTHURJACK.COM

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Planters.indd 57

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 57

15/07/2014 16:55

SUDScrete PERMEABLE PAVING SYSTEM

Ultrascape SUDScrete is a porous sub-base to be used under a decorative resin surface.

Its unique formulation contains recycled glass providing an eco-friendly layer.

The product is ideal for problem areas such as tree pits, footways and driveways.

For more information, please call 01827 871871.

www.ultrascape.co.uk ultrascape@instarmac.co.uk

ADVERTS.indd 163

e ke th a t t ’ n ns ca

rain!

Drai

17/07/2014 09:32

LATEST PRODUCTS

RESIN BOUND SURFACING Clearstone, specialists in resin bound surfacing, explain what is meant by resin bound Resin bound (or ‘trowelled’) surfacing is made from a blend of shingle, quartz or crushed granite coated with a clear UV-stable polyurethane resin. To ensure that each aggregate particle is completely coated in resin, the two elements are combined in a force-action mix process to form a cold-pour mixture. The mixture is then poured and hand-trowelled to form a smooth, accurate surface with no loose stones, which is ideal for wheelchair access and tough enough to withstand pressure washing. The resin bound mixture has open voids across the surface, allowing air to flow freely and surface water to filter through the structure, an ideal permeable system for driveways, paths, tree pits and areas prone to standing water. It is recommended that a resin bound surface should be laid to a depth of 15mm for a pool surround, footpath or terrace and 18mm for a driveway or car park.

BOUND = permeable, smooth surface Compliant with SuDS regulations

This is not to be confused with resin bonded (or ‘scattercoat’) surfacing. Resin bonded surfacing is made by sprinkling loose aggregate onto resin. It’s a great, low-cost option for redevelopment projects or for giving a project an instant facelift.

BONDED = non-permeable, rough surface Non-compliant with SuDS regulations ‘Resin bonded’ is sometimes used as a generic term for both systems. This can be misleading, since the systems produce different results.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Resin Bound paving.indd 59

The Clearstone system uses a bespoke resin formulation and unique blends of naturally sourced stone to produce a versatile and hardwearing permeable hard-landscaping surfacing product. Clearstone can create colour mixes to enhance any site: heritage or modern. They also offer an extensive palette of RAL Design Colours for decorative paved areas, bringing to life the creative designs of landscape architects and garden designers. With extensive technical expertise, their friendly in-house installation team offer a prompt, professional service, producing beautiful bespoke resin bound surfaces at competitive rates. www.clearstonepaving.co.uk

Fusion™ is a revolutionary permeable paving product developed

by SureSet’s in-house research and development team, to give you the design freedom to create fully bespoke colour blends.

Equally suitable for whole landscape areas or features within a landscape design, Fusion™ delivers a stunning, durable and low-maintenance surface, guaranteed to maintain its colour. Talk to SureSet’s development team about your perfect colour blend, and they will produce the right combination of materials to suit your aesthetic and durability needs, and provide samples to view. Fusion™ is SuDS compliant and comes with a 15 year guarantee. www.sureset.co.uk/paving-ideas/

Terrabound, Addagrip’s latest addition to the range is a commercial grade resin bound porous surfacing system, introduced to provide a more cost effective surfacing solution for large and small projects. Available in a select range of natural aggregates Terrabound provides a seamless, porous, hard wearing, low maintenance and decorative surface suitable for a range of projects including car parks, access roads, driveways, footpaths, cycle paths, heritage schemes, pedestrian precincts, educational facilities, footbridges, housing/commercial developments and landscaping schemes. www.addagrip.co.uk

Long Rake Spar work closely with the UK’s major resin manufacturers and suppliers to promote and develop systems which are applied via accredited contractors nationwide. The extensive range of aggregates, sands and powders are displayed in a comprehensive brochure – The Grantex Range, providing a diverse and unique range of products which facilitate both functional and aesthetic qualities, within a variety of resin systems. Recognising the importance of the correct product selection Long Rake Spar have become industry firsts in addressing this demand, providing full industry recognised data, where available, for all their products. Long Rake has compiled a performance index for their products, providing an indication on the durability and performance of each aggregate within resin systems. www.longrakespar.co.uk Pro Landscaper / August 2014 59

16/07/2014 10:04

Photographs ©LUC

PLAY EQUIPMENT

TUMBLING BAY AT THE OLYMPIC PARK

As part of the legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games, it was important that the Queen Elizabeth II Olympic Park was impressive, and the Tumbling Bay play area certainly achieves this with inspirational landscaping to create a play space like no other. The southern part of the events lawn and hazel copse play area has just been completed and the road bridge opened, and the plaudits continue to roll in, with the play space selected as one of the projects featured for the 2014 London Festival of Architecture.

A key ambition of the legacy projects was to create two new community hubs which together with new housing would help attract new residents and visitors to the Park. A number of design firms entered the international competition, and LUC working with erect architecture were successful in winning the North Park Hub, with James Corner Field Operations the South Hub. Lead landscape architect, Jennette Emery-Wallis comments on what the ambitions were for the development:“We wanted a focus for new and emerging community life within the North Park, a place to meet friends, hang out and play. The play space, together with the Timber Lodge café with its multi-use rentable space act as a natural draw for new residents to use as a base and to 60

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Timberplay.indd 60

explore the North Park in its wider context.”

The concept behind the development of the café and play area is based upon themes of succession and lifecycles. The Tumbling Bay play area includes extensive sand and water play, which has a wide appeal and nurtures communication between children, as they work together to move the sand or pump and transport the water.

The sand and water play area is inspired by the history of the River Lea and its industrial past. It allows children to become water engineers, encouraging them to work in groups, pumping water to dam and divert through the natural rock pools, rivulets, and industrial channels, creating splash pools and sand traps along the way. These are fed from several water pumps with locks and gates throughout the system, all supplied by Timberplay from their Richter Spielgeräte play range.

Jennette Emery-Wallis and LUC have a strong reputation for delivering innovative and challenging play areas, they were responsible for, amongst others, the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground, Brockwell Park and Heartlands.

“Risk and challenge is always key in the play areas we develop,” said Jennette, “this ensures we deliver a flexible space that appeals to a wide age range, providing graduated challenge so that children play alongside one another. We carefully assessed risk benefit to ensure high play value.

Fortunately we had a very supportive client who understood the need to build in challenge and this helped enormously in the design of the scheme.”

A large bespoke climbing feature known as the Scots Pine Play Area inspires play, where every element of the area is used to great effect, with slopes to run down, suspended swings, sculptural elements to add visual interest and hide behind.

The fluid landform and swathes of planting blend the space seamlessly into the wider parkland and permeable boundaries on three sides encourage children to play beyond the designated play space. There are also several ‘germinating’ willow pods, with plans to create a willow store so that children can create their own dens.

Timberplay provided a number of pieces of equipment for the Tumbling Bay play area, including water elements, platform huts, climbing ropes, tunnel slide, balance blocks and jumping discs.

The play areas also include two Atlántida drinking fountains to ensure that playing children have refreshment on tap. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

16/07/2014 10:17

For more information contact 01279 638700 technical@ronacrete.co.uk www.ronacrete.co.uk

RonaDeck Resin Bound Surfacing

 SuDS compliant  UV stable  Manufacturer with 45 years’ experience

addagrip

TM

Manufacturers and suppliers of quality resin surfacing systems

Resin Bound Porous Surfacing Attractive • Hard wearing • Seamless Contemporary • Low maintenance SuDs compliant Perfect for Car Parks, Access Roads, Driveways, Swimming Pool Surrounds, Courtyards, Paths and Patios.

For more information visit our website www.addagrip.co.uk or contact us on Tel: 01825 761333 email: sales@addagrip.co.uk

www.addagrip.co.uk

ADVERTS.indd 167

A member of the

Group

15/07/2014 10:16

SALTEX EVERY BRAND UNDER THE SUN

The in p UK’s b itch i es, ggest par tra ks, d gro e ev un ent ds f an o r a d l ll i an nv ds olv cap ed es

X ITION

4 rse

s .iog w w w

om c . x alte

200+ exhibitors - outdoor demonstrations - free to visit - free parking

S A LT E X

2 – 4 September 2014 Royal Windsor Racecourse

SPORTS AMENITIES LANDSC APING TRADE EXHIBITION

AS Motors lapu 02:Layout 1

22/2/12

15:13

Page 2

CLEANER CHOICES

Heavy duty and innovative, the family of AS pedestrian mowers with 2 stroke engines deliver increased power whilst reducing emissions and fuel consumption – saving an amazing 30% over traditional two stroke mowers. More power, All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and mulching means better results in wet or longer grass, reducing the number of cuts required and turning today’s grass into tomorrow’s fertilizer.

AS Motor. A cleaner finish in any environment

Pedestrian mowers

CLEANER CHOICES

Brushcutters

CLEANER POWER

For more product information, your nearest dealer or a machine demonstration contact PSD on +44 (0) 8450 773 773, Email: sales@psdgroundscare.com or visit www.psdgroundscare.com

ADVERTS.indd 165

Disc & flail

CLEANER RESULTS

Ride on mowers

CLEANER RIDE

Weed control

CLEANER SURFACE

www.as-motor.com

15/07/2014 09:20

EQUIPMENT

EQUIPMENT NEWS Rochford GM announces UK launch of B3C

CS100 wood chipper

Rochford Garden Machinery is pleased to announce the launch of the B3C Fuel Solutions range in the UK. B3C Fuel Solutions LLC is a manufacturer of environmentally friendly products and solutions for ethanol and bio-fuel related problems.

Rochfords will operate as the exclusive UK distributor of B3C Fuel Solutions’ core suite of products including Mechanic In A Bottle, Ethanol Shield and Diesel Mechanic In A Bottle.

Increasingly, outdoor power equipment and machinery dealers have been experiencing problems related to the levels of ethanol in petrol. Most people fill petrol cans for their power equipment at the fuel pump, at the same time as

they are filling their cars. The ethanol level in fuel sold in the UK is 5 per cent (E5) but this could soon increase to 10 per cent.

Ethanol can have a devastating effect on power equipment, particularly in older engines not designed to tolerate it.

Corrosive by nature and hygroscopic (attracts water) it can damage plastic and rubber fuel systems. The high amounts of oxygen in ethanol blended fuels cause petrol to decay faster, leaving varnish and sludge deposits. www.rochfordgm.co.uk

Chews

Welcome to the equipment pages of Pro Landscaper, where we will be looking at new products and developments in the market.

If you have any stories, please email them to joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com or tweet me @ProLanKit

Hitachi Power Tools launches PureFire chainsaw Hitachi Power Tools has launched its latest chainsaw, the CS33EDP, with new PureFire engine, designed to tackle the big jobs with minimum effort and strain for the operator.

Using kit all day long can take its toll, but the great advantage of the new CS33EDP is its anti-fatigue features. It has increased cutting speed and requires approximately 50 per cent less pulling force to start than previous models. It is extremely low in weight, coming in at just 3.7kg (excluding bar and chain).

But while it’s low on grams, it’s high on power – running at 1.3kW on maximum, it can tackle even the biggest jobs.

readjusting the chain is quick and simple, saving time and effort.

The sprocket nose guide bar is available at lengths of 350mm or 400mm. www.hitachi-powertools.co.uk

it up and spits it out Wood chipping is not only environmentally friendly, but eye pleasing too! l 16hp or 18hp B&S Vanguard V-Twin petrol engine l 100mm chipping capacity l Twin reversible chipping blades l Adjustable discharge chute l Optional dedicated trailer l 760mm width enables access to tight spaces l Easy to maintain and simple to operate l From 195kg weight

Powerful, effective

and value for money

Equipment News.indd 63

The chainsaw houses a spring type anti-vibration system that reduces strain on the hands. It also has a primer pump and an S-Start recoil system, which means less effort is needed to start the engine.

Furthermore, the saw comes with an auto-return choke with half throttle function for problem free starting. The new PureFire engine meets European standards for low emissions, meaning the chainsaw is suitable for prolonged use.

The CS33EDP has a side access chain tensioner so

See us at Saltex 2014 on stand No. A18

Tel: 01789 400044

www.greenmech.co.uk

16/07/2014 15:35

EQUIPMENT

SCAG Cheetahs show their cost-saving benefits As the result of an on-site groundcare machinery demonstration by Dominic Mason and Mike Chater of Simon Tullett Machinery, Dave Whincup of Sportsground Maintenance and Supplies in Frocester, Gloucestershire made the decision that the purchase of two SCAG Cheetah zero-turn ride-on mowers would make direct and indirect

economic sense for his team and the catalogue of work they carry out.

Certain areas of grass were proving to be costly in terms of time and manpower using their bat-wing rotary. Dave was convinced that, despite the 61in Cheetah having less than half the cut width of the bat-wing, the machine is so manoeuvrable and so fast when

SnowEx spreads even wider

SnowEx salt and grit spreaders have spread as the professional choice across the UK and through Europe. Winter may seem a while off, especially with the bouts of

Amenity

EvenSprey 300 30 litre capacity

warm weather we’re experiencing, but it is the wise that are planning their winter maintenance systems now so they don’t get caught out by even the earliest of harsh

cutting that the areas would be cut more quickly.

Dave has also been very pleased with the cut performance of the

Cheetahs. His range of machinery includes bat-wing cylinder mowers, and though they can’t match the finish of a cylinder he has found that certain areas can be just as favourably cut with the fast and agile rotary-cut Cheetahs. To enhance the finished appearance he also has one of the units kitted out with the SCAG striper kit. www.st-mach.com

conditions the British weather can throw at us. Efficient snow and ice control begins with having the right equipment to cover all eventualities.

Designed and built to perform in North American winter conditions there is a complete SnowEx range to choose from to meet Health and Safety legislation.

Towed spreaders for ATVs, mounted units for UTVs, 4x4s, pick-ups, trucks, tractors and trailers, there is a SnowEx spreader to meet your requirements from 47 litre to 4,500 litre capacity.

Many have in-cab control units for precise operation of spinners and augers, preventing overspreading and material wastage, while offering greater comfort and safety for operators. SnowEx vehicle

spreaders have a 12V DC direct drive motor which is mounted in a weather-tight enclosure, ensuring reliable power in all situations.

The drives comprise a revolutionary maximum torque transmission with hardened steel worm and bronze gear. A steel auger feed system gives a positive and accurate supply, while the UV protected hoppers are constructed in high density polyethylene for zero corrosion and reduced weight. SnowEx spreaders come in one colour: bright yellow, so you’ll be safely seen coming and going. Take your first steps towards winter maintenance now and you will be in good shape by the time the icy tentacles of winter are upon us. www.wessexintl.co.uk

EASY, EFFICIENT, ECONOMIC

EvenSprey 250

Sprayers and Spreaders

SSR 100 DL Deluxe Spreader 45 litre capacity

Designed specifically to deliver liquid or dry fertilisers and other treatments to fine turf, our ranges of sprayers and spreaders combine simple operation with accuracy and economic.

25 litre capacity

Visit www.vitax.co.uk for details of the full range or call 01530 510060 Equipment News.indd 64

SSR 50 25 litre capacity

16/07/2014 10:27

EQUIPMENT

GENERAL LATEST KIT The Toro Dingo is an industryleading compact loader because of its unique combination of power and versatility in a machine small enough to fit through a gate. Dingo operators can carry out dozens of jobs efficiently with just one innovative machine. With more than 35 attachments available, operators can lift, carry, dig, trench, cultivate, The Little Billy LB352 outdoor vacuum from Billy Goat weighs just 25.85kg/57lbs, making it light and incredibly easy to manoeuvre. The LB352 features a Briggs & Stratton 158cc engine to guarantee long life and reliability. The push model with a 20in wide nozzle is ideal for vacuuming leaves, grass and debris and, with its superior suction, is a favourite for smaller gardens.

It also has a 105 litre grassbox collection capacity, and an adjustable wheel for changing surfaces allowing the LB352 to function on both hard surfaces and turf.

An optional hose kit is also available.

WWW.BILLYGOAT.CO.UK

If you are after a professional brush cutter, then look no further than the Maruyama BCV5020

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

General LK.indd 65

till, grade, level, mix, demolish, fill, auger, rake, sweep and more – and quick-change dripless flush-face couplers mean it is easy to change attachments without any heavy lifting. Narrow track, wide track or wheeled base-unit models are offered with a choice of petrol or diesel engines.

WWW.TORO.CO.UK

The new STIHL HS45 cuts fuel consumption and emissions as well as all types of hedge. Excellent balance and careful handle positioning promotes comfortable and manoeuvrable control, whilst a throttle trigger interlock means the user can relax their right hand on the controls setting the speed of the cutters to a consistent ‘go’. The HS45 features a curved rear handle which means the blades are clear of grass or dirt when the hedge trimmer is on the ground. The double-sided blades allow two-directional cutting and the laser-cut, diamond ground and case-hardened blades retain an impressive edge.

WWW.STIHL.CO.UK

which features an anti-vibration driveshaft with oversized volumetric dampers, to ensure a low vibration. The engine has an industry-busting five year warranty, while the drive shaft

and ignition module carry a life-time warranty. The BCV5020 is very fuel efficient and the large fuel tank means fewer fill ups.

The Maruyama BCV5020 also has a very competitive purchase price.

WWW.DMMP.CO.UK

Great performance and versatility are helping the Grasshopper range of zero-turn mowers to become one of the most popular in the UK. With easy maintenance, longer service intervals and lower running costs these machines offer a reliable service that can perform for private users as well as heavy commercial contractors. Three styles of deck with varying widths, dependent upon the drive unit are available.

However for mid mount models the

high performance 4X deck has been specifically designed for rear discharge and its unique four-spindle design evenly distributes clippings by channelling debris out the back of the deck for a cleaner operation.

WWW.RECO.CO.UK

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 65

16/07/2014 10:31

EQUIPMENT

GENERAL LATEST KIT

Anyone looking for a first class finish on regularly mown areas might like to start with the Wessex ProLine CR mowers. These well-built machines run on their own wheels in combination with fully floating linkage points, which means ground contours can be accurately followed to leave a premium finish. The blade system has swinging blade tips for maximum resistance to stone damage and the three rotors are staggered to give 100 per cent blade coverage. The cutting height is easily altered with a simple index pin mechanism and the drive belts are tensioned simultaneously by one sliding action of the gearbox.

WWW.WESSEXINTL.CO.UK

The Cobra BC450 handheld brushcutter helps clear gardens with complete ease. With a 45cc Kawasaki TJ453E engine, giving a maximum power of 1.42kW, the Cobra brushcutter provides robust and reliable power with added torque and increased fuel efficiency. The single shaft brushcutter features a tap ‘n’ go double line cutting head for mowing and thinning along with ergonomic controls and a double shoulder harness. The Cobra BC450 is available with

either a bike handle, with ergonomic and easily adjustable handlebars, or with a loop handle

for increased ease of manoeuvring.

WWW.COBRAGARDEN.CO.UK

Multihog launches its latest range of innovative multipurpose machines – the new MX series. More compact, powerful and efficient than the original

MH90 model, these slim line models 360° visibility, multifunctional joystick and finger-tip control. The MX chassis widths start from 1280mm with a low

height profile beginning at 1990mm. These units are ideal in narrow urban environments, when working on pavements and pedestrianised areas. Each model in the MX range can be made your own with the choice of an environmentally friendly 75HP, 100HP or 120HP fuel efficient Deutz 3.6 litre engine.

WWW.MULTIHOG.CO.UK

The SCAG V-Ride pedestrian/stand-on rotary mower from Simon Tullett Machinery justifies its ‘V for Versatility’ tag by being a rotary mower that can be both ride-on and walkbehind. The machine has an operator platform at the back that allows the operator to ride with the

66

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

General LK.indd 66

machine for larger areas; however, as the OPC sytem is based on the handlebar controls, it means that more intricate areas can be mowed with the operator just lifting the footplate out of the way and operating as a pedestrian.

WWW.ST-MACH.COM

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

16/07/2014 10:34

EQUIPMENT Tracmaster’s highly successful CAMON brand continues to go from strength to strength with the introduction of two new products, a powerful compact chipper and a domestic scarifier, both of which were designed and manufactured by Tracmaster in the UK. Tracmaster will be showcasing these new products at SALTEX 2014, alongside its entire BCS and CAMON range, including CAMON log splitters and turf cutters, BCS salt spreaders and snow-clearing machinery, BCS Commanders and two wheel tractors plus attachments. SALTEX visitors will be able to try out all Tracmaster’s equipment within Tracmaster’s demo area. www.tracmaster.co.uk

NEW RELEASES AT

SALTEX If you’re planning a visit to IOG SALTEX from 2-4 September, here’s a taster of the new products you can expect to see

Wiedenmann UK’s ever growing product list offers some of the most innovative and efficient machinery for mowing, collecting, surface conditioning, brushing and blowing. Saltex highlights include the 270° Mega Twister, a powerful swivelling blower; the Terra Clean 160, a sweeper collector aimed at the high performance sector which offers world first cyclone technology and stands apart in the artificial market; the Super 600, a 4500 litre capacity, high dump multi-purpose flail, verti-cut and collect machine and the revolutionary eco-focused Core-Recycler, which recycles up to 80 per cent of the cores’ indigenous material back to the surface. www.wiedenmann.co.uk

BOMAG (GB) Limited, a supplier of compaction equipment, has confirmed that the innovative compact reversible vibrating plate will be at SALTEX in September on stand L49. Powered by a reliable 3.6kW Honda petrol engine the 205kg machine has a working width of 600mm. The single lever control and excellent inherent balance allows the operator to compact in tight urban spaces safely and with a minimum of fuss. The machine is a superb performer with a BOMAG designed and built exciter system that generates 35kN of centrifugal force at an amplitude of 1.5mm and a frequency of 80Hz. www.bomag.com

The brand new Gritex SHPE 1000 compact gritter can be mounted on a range of donor vehicles or trailer mounted. It has a low unit weight of 155kg and a capacity of 750kg making a total gross weight of 905kg fully loaded. The SHPE 1000 gritter is electrically powered from the vehicle and has an in-cab controller, which allows the operator to control the auger speed and spinner speed. It is constructed from heavy duty double walled polymer for great strength without a heavy unit weight, along with stainless steel. www.gritex.co.uk

The CHPD78 Model from Easy Petrol Post Driver replaces the CHPD73 model, with the major change being the size of the striker hammer increasing from 50mm to 70mm. This is a vast increase in surface area providing more force upon the post to knock it in quicker and with more ease. The machine comes with a standard capacity of 78mm, and there are a couple of adaptors available for certain uses. This adaptor is removable and interchangeable – it does not affect the original machine. www.petrolpostdriver.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Go and see at Saltex.indd 67

Kersten UK has developed a two inch receiver hitch mount for Meyer’s PathPro snowplough making it transferrable between different models of UTV. Meyer’s Path Pro is perfect for clearing snow with your UTV. With its unique flared wings and scoop and funnel design it will clear the snow faster and throw it farther than competitive blades. 65° attack angle scrapes the surface more cleanly than straight edges and allows compacted snow and ice to be moved easily. www.kersten-machines.com

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 67

16/07/2014 10:40

E CKSLABL O T I S A OD AV GO NTLY RE CUR

THE DEEP MOUNTED GRASS CARE SYSTEM (WORKING WIDTH 1.5 METERS)

Fencing Materials for Landscapers Direct to Site Deliveries - Helpful Expert Advice

• Fencing Products, Sleepers & Decking • 8 Branches across UK

Only £1,441.00 plus VAT

• UC4 Quality Fence Posts • Full Product Guarantees

Slitter (shown) with individually replaceable tines.

Aerator and hollow tine corer also available.

AVS Fencing Supplies

01473 328272 • www.schsupplies.co.uk email: sales@schsupplies.co.uk

SEE US AT

SALTEX

0800 288 8324 www.avsfencing.co.uk AVSAD.indd 1

06/05/2014 14:08

STAND C30

BUILT FOR EVERY SEASON. Accu-way™ Controlled spread pattern Spyker Dial Adjustment Eliminates waste and saves time Large Pneumatic Tyres Improved manoeuvrability

Super 600

Metal Gears Professional models Lifetime warranty

Super 600 3-in1 collector, flail mower, scarifier and sweeper. 4500 litre, 2.1m high dump and in cab remote control.

Ingenious wheel locking system.

Mega Twister Unique 230° swivelling blower with whisper turbine. Blows continuously in one direction without the need to turn around or back up.

For more info call 0141 814 3366 www.wiedenmann.co.uk

Positive On/Off System No trailing cables

Mega Twister

European Distributor

Central Spares Ltd Tel 01202 882000 www.centralspares.co.uk

889_CS Spyker Ad 91x118.indd 1 ADVERTS.indd 173

SEE US AT EX SALT N A ST D H30 N IO IT IB H EX

04/07/2014 18:15 17/07/2014 08:59

EQUIPMENT

TRADING WITH

RANSOMES JACOBSEN Alan Prickett, Managing Director of Ransomes Jacobsen, tells us about the business and his pride in its British roots

Give us a brief outline of your role.

As Managing Director I am responsible for the business in a territory that covers most of the globe with the exception of North America, Canada, Mexico and Central America. That’s a huge area to manage, so we have sales and service teams based in strategic locations around the world. My fundamental role is to run a safe and reputable business for our staff to work in, and to ensure that we meet our growth and commercial commitments to our parent company Textron Inc., and its shareholders.

What is the structure of the company?

We are the UK based subsidiary company of Jacobsen, the turf maintenance equipment manufacturer based in Charlotte, NC, USA. The two companies were competitors until 1998, when Textron purchased Ransomes and Sims & Jefferies and merged the businesses. We report to our owners, Textron, through Jacobsen. We have a local board of directors, all responsible for various elements of the business and employ around 300 people, split more or less 50/50 between the manufacturing plant and the support services – sales, marketing, customer care and finance.

What is your route to market? Do you have a dealer network?

Yes, our route to market is through a network of dealers in the UK. The dealers and distributors are our interface with the end-user, so it is vitally important that they are top class businesses in their own right. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Trading With Ransomes.indd 69

How important is the landscape contractor to your business?

Landscape contractors, large or small, are an integral part of our business.

The local authority and landscape contractor sectors make up a significant proportion of our revenue.

Are your products made in Britain?

All of our Ransomes products are made in our Ipswich factory and it’s something of which we are extremely proud. We have over 1,000 customers or potential customers visit our manufacturing facilities here in Ipswich every year.

Because of the nature of our business, with many options available for almost every machine, each mower is virtually hand-built by teams of skilled engineers. We make all of our cutting cylinders and rotary decks on site and at the time of manufacture we are unaware whether they will be fitted to a mower or be shipped as spare parts. All of our cutting units are manufactured to exactly the same specification, so a genuine spare part is exactly what we say it is.

Why do contractors choose your brand over competitors?

We believe we are innovators and are always looking to develop new products. We have a significant R&D budget and aim to bring something new to market each year to assist with our growth objectives and to keep the innovation flowing.

LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS, LARGE OR SMALL, ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF OUR BUSINESS

What health and safety precautions do you take to ensure the safety of the contractor using your products?

We design safety into our products and we provide education to end-users. In the first instance for example, we know that every contract manager has an issue with the operation of machinery on slopes. We have designed a system for our ride on mowers that we call Tilt Stability Technology, which emits audible warnings as the mower begins to exceed its slope rating and eventually stops the machine mowing if the operator ignores the warning.

Are you introducing any new products in the next few months?

Yes we are but I’m not at liberty to say more at present! However, keep your eye on the equipment pages of the Pro Landscaper over the next few months for information on our new launches...

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 69

16/07/2014 10:44

PEOPLE

WORK I was once told that if I chose a career I loved then I’d never

maternal guilt. It’s great to see more women

work a day of my life; I’m so thankful I took that advice. I still have

coming into the industry these days, but I wish we’d

to pinch myself that I’ve been working in garden design for

see more of them given the top gigs. I’ve been lucky to

nearly 20 years – there are so many highlights: leading the landscape team in the historical

be trusted enough to be let loose in dozens of client’s gardens, have appeared on television, written three books,

restoration of eight gardens in the TV

and countless newspaper and magazine articles. My one

series of Lost Gardens, winning a Gold

overriding ambition is to have a 10 x 22 metre show garden at

medal at Chelsea and most recently

Chelsea. Through my work in the media, if I’ve inspired another

designing the woodland walk at Chestnut

woman to step up to the drawing board and get designing,

Tree House Children’s Hospice. I’m part of the garden experts group that advises the

I’d be delighted.

Life’s too short not to enjoy it – at work I surround myself

Greenfingers charity on design and I’m very

with talented people with passion, enthusiasm and

proud to be involved.

professionalism, that I love being around.

I think the thing I’m most proud of is that I’ve stuck to my guns and kept on going. Opting to be the main earner in our household running my own business with two young children was, and still can be

As I get older, I feel more confident in my own design style and to be true to my instinct. In all walks of life, I think it’s true to say that I enjoy bending the rules a little.

tough. Before I had the boys, I had no idea how strong the maternal tie would be – some days I ached to be with them, still do, but the bills need to be paid, so on I go. I don’t think I could keep walking out the door if I was doing anything else, but still there’s

INSPIRATION Art and architecture are perhaps my greatest inspirations – Andy Goldsworthy, David Nash, Gaudi, Zaha Hadid, Norman Foster.

Lately I’ve developed a slight obsession with Thomas Heatherwick, admiring not only his work, but also his work processes. When I lived in London, one of my favourite places to be was the Rothko room at Tate Modern. The extraordinary depth and warmth of the paintings were a calm visual blanket amongst the business of life there. I used to live in London, and urban life inspired me then and continues to inspire my designs now I live rurally – I enjoy exploring the juxtaposition of these two opposite ideals within the garden environment. These days I live in Sussex, and I am completely inspired by the natural landscape all around me. In the last two years I’ve taken up running, and seeing the seasonal change in the routes I pound are one of my greatest pleasures.

70

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

Life Style.indd 70

LIFE/STYLE Ann-Marie Powell Award-winning garden designer, writer, journalist and TV presenter, Ann-Marie is a truly inspiring advocate for the industry, her passions include music, feminism, adventure, art, and architecture

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

16/07/2014 10:53

IN ALL WALKS OF LIFE, I THINK IT’S TRUE TO SAY THAT I ENJOY BENDING THE RULES A LITTLE

PEOPLE

PERSONAL I suppose I try to wring as much as I can from every moment of my life. It’s a joy to be alive and we should make the most of it – not everyone gets the opportunity to enjoy that privilege. If I’m lucky enough

to reach old age I would like to be crowded with happy memories of friends and joyful experiences, oh, and plants of course. Besides my family, the thing I value above all else are my friendships.

Music is another great passion of mine. As a girl my father’s love of classic rock and heavy metal, and my mother’s love of classical music were all around me – both seemed to seep into my soul. I studied music at secondary school, however, when I left, I developed a rather wild side to my character and discovered raves and dance music.

If I wasn’t a garden designer I would love to be involved in music, a late night DJ slot on 6 Music would be a dream job. Favourite bands? It’s got to be Led Zeppelin, Super Furry Animals and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs all played full tilt.

Fashion is another great love, be it a local jumble sale, charity shop or my favourite department store Selfridges. I think it’s safe to say that I’d hate to ever blend in.

Books are another of life’s great delights, I have so many favourites, but I confess I must have read Wuthering Heights at least a dozen times.

I have two mottos, which my sons now repeat in the most deadpan ‘not-again’ singsong voices you’ve ever heard – ‘positivity breeds content’ and ‘burn out, not fade away’.

E

TRAVEL Being outside has always been my greatest joy; I got a taste for the great outdoors when I was at boarding school in Derbyshire doing the Duke of Edinburgh award. The camping has stayed with me. In my early twenties, I’d chug up to the Grizedale Forest in the Lake District to camp alone in the wilds. These days camping is still such a wonderful way to step off the world and slow down with friends and family.

Many moons ago when I was (mostly!) single and my business was in its fledgling stages I would take off backpacking to far flung climes, India, Nepal, Costa Rica, New Zealand and so on. Since we now have children a little more forward planning is required, if I’m honest, I crave the day our children will be old enough for the family to take off, flight only, for a few more adventures. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Life Style.indd 71

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 71

16/07/2014 10:53

JOBS OUTLET MANAGER

GODFREYS SEVENOAKS LTD Location: Wokingham

For full details on all jobs, please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

Responsible for the achievement of the outlet business plan objectives and fulfilling the expectations of all stakeholders (owners, customers, and employees). Provides leadership in evaluating, allocating, and managing human, physical and financial resources for the location. Optimises the profitable growth of the business, the personal growth of employees, and the satisfaction of customers. Might also be assigned to other functional responsibilities within the dealership.

Call 01903 777 587 or email ellie.downes@eljays44.com with your vacancy.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

EXPERIENCED HARD AND SOFT LANDSCAPERS THE OUTDOOR ROOM Location: Cowfold

Based in West Sussex, we work on exciting high end projects throughout the Southeast and London. Experienced hard landscapers should have experience in brickwork and stonework, all aspects of paving, and decking. They should capable of reading plans and using surveying equipment to set out work on site. Tickets for machinery operation and CSCS will be an advantage. Experienced soft landscapers should have excellent horticultural knowledge with a good understanding of soil and have flair for plant design and setting out. Knowledge and ability of lawn preparation and care are also required.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

LANDSCAPER

NEW EDEN LANDSCAPES LTD Location: Chelmsford We are looking for a motivated, enthusiastic landscaper who can lead a small team transforming private gardens, to include hard and soft landscaping, overseeing and working with our specialist trades and liaising with our customers, the site, suppliers, our project manager and our designers.You will have three or four years’ experience building gardens from scratch, be self-motivated with a positive, can-do attitude, show practical common sense coupled to a high attention to detail, have reasonable plant knowledge, be a great leader but a great team player too.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

LANDSCAPE SUPERVISOR/TEAM LEADER

LANDSCAPE CONTRACT MANAGER

Working as part of a team of landscape gardeners, managing the team, dealing with plans, adhering to Health & Safety, administration of time sheets, written instructions and procedures. Care and maintenance of tools, equipment and vehicles. Experience and skills: landscaping expertise, with responsibility, and the ability to lead others and deliver work to the customer’s satisfaction. Must have excellent customer service skills, be punctual, hardworking and have a keen interest in garden construction and maintenance. Full driving licence essential.

We looking to appoint a dynamic, driven, experienced and committed Contract Manager to work within our landscaping division reporting directly to our Operations Director.You will be primarily responsible for the day to day organising of labour, materials, plant and transport, liaising with clients, working with others to ensuring health and safety risk assessments and method statements remain current, developing and working to financial budgets, producing valuations, and where possible obtaining extra work on existing contracts.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

AMENITY HORTICULTURAL APPRENTICESHIP

MAINTENANCE MANAGER

John O’Conner are pleased to offer 18 month Amenity Horticulture Apprenticeships based in our depots in Dunstable, Wycombe, Hitchin, Radlett, St Albans and Buntingford. It’s an ideal way to begin a career in horticulture and open space management. As an Amenity Horticulture Apprentice, you will work on the contract and get paid while you complete your education. The programme is run in conjunction with KEITS, where Apprentices will undertake Level 2 Diploma in Work-Based Horticulture, key skills and one legislative or occupational test.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

Belderbos Landscapes is currently looking for a Maintenance Manager. If you have a positive can-do approach, possess excellent communication and organisational skills and have a background in horticulture, please contact us. The Maintenance Manager will be responsible for looking after existing clients, developing new business and managing the maintenance teams. This is a fantastic opportunity for the right person to be part of a growing business. The ideal candidate will be experienced and/or qualified in garden maintenance / horticulture. They will also be honest, self-motivated, reliable, and have a friendly yet professional approach with clients.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

HORTICULTURAL / LANDSCAPE TECHNICIAN

EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPER/GARDENER

Do you have a passion for flowers? Can You Drive a Tractor? Become part of a team leading the way in urban meadow establishment across the country. This is a new and exciting opportunity for an ambitious new qualified horticulturalist or someone with a sound understanding of soil science. The successful applicant will be involved in the establishment and maintenance of extensive urban flower meadows across the UK, as well as other commercial soft landscape contracts. Candidates must have strong interest in practical ecology and horticulture, hold a clean driving license and be prepared to travel.

Culverhouse Gardens are a family business that offers quality landscaping and garden maintenance services to both domestic and commercial clients. We are currently seeking a full time experienced landscaper/gardener to join our expanding team. The ideal candidate will have exceptional skills and experience in fencing, paving, brick laying, turf laying, planting, pressure washing and general garden maintenance. They will have the ability to work on their own and as part of a team to carry out work to a specified standard and within a specified time frame.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

CREATIVE LANDSCAPES Location: Nottingham

JOHN O’CONNER Location: Welwyn

GREEN ESTATE LTD Location: Sheffield

72

Jobs.indd 72

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

FGS GROUP Location: East Sussex, Kent, Greater London, and Surrey

BELDERBOS LANDSCAPES Location: London

CULVERHOUSE GARDENS LTD Location: Hertfordshire

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

16/07/2014 14:55

CLASSIFIED SKILLED LANDSCAPER

CONTRACTS MANAGERS/ GENERAL MANAGERS

ARBWORX LTD Location: Brighton

Multi skilled Landscaper / Supervisor required for award winning company in the Brighton area. We are looking for talented individuals with a ‘can do’ attitude to join our team. Ideal applicants will be over 25 with a CCDL and used to delivering quality works on schedule and on budget.You will be responsible for a small team of staff and tasked with carrying out most aspects of our core business. Knowledge of building regulations, span tables, site specifications for hard surfacing a real advantage.

TAYLOR2RECRUITMENT LTD Location: Nationwide

Landscape and grounds maintenance. Working for some of the largest and specialist companies in the country, excellent opportunities.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

LANDSCAPER

DESIGNER

HARRINGTON PORTER LANDSCAPES LTD Location: Fulham

BOWLES & WYER Location: Pitstone, Near Tring

Skilled landscapers required for a leading garden design and build company based in SW6.

Weekly pay, salary dependant on experience, permanent roles available. Applicants must have experience in paving, bricklaying, timberwork, small rendering works, cutting and power tools. Driving license valid for the UK, fluent spoken English preferred. Site / building experience essential.

We are currently looking for qualified design staff. If you are motivated and talented designer, with skills including AutoCAD, PhotoShop and SketchUp please contact us.

Degree qualification in Garden Design and/or Landscape Architecture a necessity.

Part-time or full time. Bowles & Wyer is an award-winning landscape practice based in Hertfordshire, but working across the south of England and beyond doing landscape architecture, garden design and contracting. We run a collaborative office with a great atmosphere. Salary according to ability and experience.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

QUALITY GRASS SEED THAT PERFORMS. The Green Velvet Lawn Seed range from Barenbrug has been specially designed for landscapers looking to achieve the best possible results on lawns.

A quality simple range at sensible prices.

www.oxfordplanters.co.uk Providers of English Handcrafted Planters and Outdoor Furniture in Oak, Iroko or Accoya.

Other services include a bespoke joinery service for all interior & exterior design.

For more information email info@oxfordplanters.co.uk or call 01608 683022

01359 272000 | info@baruk.co.uk

www.greenvelvetlawnseed.co.uk

For all horticultural and Garden design enquiries please contact Martin on 07765 188725 or email info@martincadams.co.uk All products manufactured in the Cotswolds using sustainable timber.

Unwanted grounds maintenance equipment?

Don’t scrap it - SELL it at Tamlyns Outdoor Auctions QP 11:13:39 advert templates.indd GV_ProLandscaper_59x91mm_Classifieds.indd 1 15/05/2013 Next Sale Days: Saturday 2nd August: The Oak Tree Arena, Edithmead, M5 J22, Somerset, TA9 4HA Saturday 4th October: The Sale Field, Blakes Road, Wembdon, Bridgwater, TA6 7RS Enquiries to Tamlyns, 56 High Street, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 3BN T 01278 454500 E ross.whitcombe@tamlyns.co.uk W www.tamlyns.co.uk

18/07/2013 15:43

In whatever trade, tendering accurately for contrac ts LiberRATE no wonder that most of the award winning contractors use LiberRATE to secure and manage their Landscape and Garden contracts.

FREE 90 DAY TRIAL

Download from www.landpro.co.uk or call: Sam Hassall -01252 795 030

PROFESSIONAL

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 73

www.prolandscapermagazine.com LIBERATECLASS.indd 1

CLASS.indd 73

24

16/07/2014 16:56

17/07/2014 08:54

CLASSIFIED

8 129 3773

www.landmarktimber.co.uk

0808 129 3773

SPRING BUL D&R SIMMONS LTD FLOWERING SPRING FLOWERING BUL Wholesale suppliers of all types of flower bulbs and hedging plants

SPRING BULBS D&RFLOWERING SIMMONS LTD

Au Au

D&R SIMMONS LTD

(Established 1951)

www.drsimmons.co.uk (Established 1951)

45 Market Way, Pinchbeck, Spalding, 45 Market Way, Lincolnshire PE11 3PE Pinchbeck, Spalding, SPRING FLOWERING BULBS (Established 1951) Lincolnshire PE11 3PE Tel: 01775 723320 / 766028 Autumn 2013 D&R SIMMONS LTD Fax: 01775 723320 760451 // 766028 714970 45 Market Way, Tel: 01775 Price List Fax: 01775 760451 / 714970 Pinchbeck, Spalding, www.drsimmons.co.uk Suppliers of Bulbs Nursery Stock sales@drsimmons.co.uk Lincolnshire PE11 3PE e-mail: www.drsimmons.co.uk and Christmas Trees e-mail: sales@drsimmons.co.uk Tel: 01775 723320 / 766028

D&R SIMMONS LTD

(Established 1951)

45 Market Way, Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 3PE Tel: 01775 723320 / 766028 Fax: 01775 760451 / 714970 www.drsimmons.co.uk e-mail: sales@drsimmons.co.uk

Autumn 2013 Sup Sup Price List

and C Suppliers of Bulbs and C SPRING FLOWERING BULBS Fax: 01775 760451 / 714970 Nursery Stock www.drsimmons.co.uk and Christmas Trees e-mail: sales@drsimmons.co.uk QP advert templates.indd 1 14/02/2014 09:48 Autumn 2013 D&R SIMMONS LTD Price List 45 Market Way,

8 129 3773

(Established 1951)

For all your golf, sportsturf and landscape irrigation needs.

For all you

Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 3PE Tel: 01775 723320 / 766028 Fax: 01775 760451 / 714970 www.drsimmons.co.uk e-mail: sales@drsimmons.co.uk

Buy online at www.lws.uk.com

Suppliers of Bulbs Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

Tel 0345 230 9697 • www.lws.uk.com National Trust Landscape Collection

For all

Tel 0345 2

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

The National Trust together with established reproduction paving company Westminster Cotswold Manor havesportsturf created ranges and landscape yourStone golf, of paving and landscaping products of unrivaled quality and character influenced by National Trust properties and gardens throughout the UK. The Collection offers an authentic ambiance and instant maturity and charm to any setting.

Kitchen Garden

50

December 2012

nursery of distinction

QUALITY, PROFESSIONALISM, SERVICE • Suppliers of top quality container grown shrubs, grasses, herbaceous, climbers & specimens • Good range in 3 and 10 litre pots • Cash and carry service

Roman Villa

Paving | Decorative Shingle Garden Artefacts

For further information visit www.nationaltrustpaving.com or call 0844 815 6442 for quotations www.lws.uk.com or to place an order|Nationwide Delivery

www.prolandscapermagazine.com Westminster stone advert classified.indd 1

Jacksons of Chobham Since 1936

Country House irrigation needs.

Buy online at www.lws.uk.com

Tel 0345 230 9697 •

Buy onlin

18/07/2013 09:06

Chobham, Woking, Surrey GU24 8SX

tel: 01276 858 028

web: www.jacksonsnursery.co.uk email: sales@jacksonsnursery.co.uk

W. Godfrey & Sons Ltd Wholesale Herbaceous Growers We have grown and supplied herbaceous plants to the landscape trade for the past 93 years!

CALL (01276) 47 17 57 Sales@wgodfrey.co.uk www.wgodfrey.co.uk

74

Pro Landscaper / August 2014

www.prolandscapermagazine.com QP advert templates.indd 33

CLASS.indd 74

19/12/2013 10:39

15/07/2014 10:51

CLASSIFIED

ALL MATERIALS The New Prof 5 Shredder • • • •

TURF CARE MACHINERY SPECIALISTS

Makes easy work of branches, wet green waste and mixed leafage 4 Season shredder is effective in all conditions Smooth and easy suction feed system Produces easily compostable BioTech™ chips

Call: 08450 773 773

Classifi ed www.psdgroundscare.co.uk

Specialists in Turf Care Machinery

ALL YEAR

Classified

Fawcetts Liners

LANDMARK Timber Products

Established 1948 and still going strong due to quality being our main concern.

Pond Liners

Buy from manufacturers and save £££!

Also

big savings on pumps and filters!

Why not visit our website!

www.fawcettsliners.co.uk

01473 328272 • www.schsupplies.co.uk or telephone for a brochure and samples:

British built, robust equipment Call: 01772 612125 Fax: 615360 Bespoke orders taken – we can build01772 to your specifications www.landmarktimber.co.uk 0808 129 3773

����� �� FawcettsLiners_B182919_1LB

TION

1

2/2/10

���o�

12:47:01

Compact Tractors / Tractor Mowers John Deere 6430 Premium specification, 125hp - 1161hrs John Deere 3720 (Ex Demo) 45hp, cab, turf tyres – low hours John Deere 3320, 33hp, roll bar, turf tyres – 1230hrs John Deere 4115, 24hp, roll bar, turf tyres – 1976hrs John Deere 1026R (Ex Demo) 26hp, 54” mid deck – low hours John Deere X748, 48” SD deck, Hi-Tip Collector, 4WD – 1188 hrs John Deere X740, 54” SD deck, Low-Tip Collector, 2WD – 1826hrs John Deere X740, 54” SD deck, Low-Tip Collector – choice of 2 John Deere X495, 24hp diesel, 2WD, HST, 48” SD deck – 2057hrs Kioti DK551C, 54hp, cab, turf tyres – 612hrs Kubota L3830D, 38hp, gearbox, roll bar, turf tyres – 319hrs Massey Ferguson 1528 c/w front brush, 28hp – 430hrs New Holland T5060, 105hp, full cab, turf tyres – 1208hrs New Holland TN55D, 55hp, cab, turf tyres – 1751hrs Yanmar FE280H, 28hp, roll bar, turf tyres – 234hrs

£ POA £ 19’200 £ 9’000 £ 5’000 £ POA £ 15’750 £ 8’750 £ 6’250 £ 5’500 £ 15’500 £ 11’000 £ 9’000 £ 26’500 £ 12’500 £ 9’500

Ride-On Rotary Mowers Etesia Attila 88 Bank Mower (Ex Demo) – low hours Etesia H124DS (Ex Demo) 48” RD deck, Hi-Tip Coll. – low hours Etesia H124DS, 48” RD deck, Hi-Tip Coll. & 2ft scarifying heads Ferris IS1500Z, 19hp, 2WD, HST drive, 44” RD deck – choice of 3 Grillo Climber Bank Mower (Ex Demo) 34” deck – low hours Jacobsen AR250, 38hp diesel, 4WD, mulch decks c/w rollers John Deere 1445, 31hp, 4WD, 62” rear discharge deck – 287 hrs John Deere 1445, 31hp, 4WD, 62” rear discharge deck – 1710 hrs John Deere 1445, 31hp, 4WD, 60” S.D deck, full cab – 2126 hrs John Deere 1445, 31hp, 4WD, 62” rear discharge deck – 936 hrs John Deere 1445, 31hp, 4WD, 62” rear discharge deck – 3142 hrs John Deere 1445, 31hp, 4WD, 62” rear discharge deck – 3721 hrs John Deere 1445 (Power Unit Only) – choice of 2 John Deere F1145, 28hp, 60” Trimax flail deck – 1744hrs John Deere 1565, 38hp, 4WD, 62” R.D deck, full cab – 1044hrs John Deere 1600T Wide Area Mower, 58hp, canopy – 3396hrs John Deere 1600T Wide Area Mower, 64hp, canopy – 1878 hrs John Deere 1600T Wide Area Mower, 58hp – 128” cutting width John Deere 997 Zero Turn Mower, 30hp, 60” cut – 243 hrs Ransome HR6010 Batwing mower – choice of 2

£ POA £ POA £ 6’500 £ 3’250 £ 4’750 £ 5’500 £12’000 £10’500 £ 9’750 £ 8’750 £ 7’000 £ 7’000 £ 4’500 £ 4’500 £10’500 £ 8’500 £ 9’500 £13’500 £11’000 £ POA

Ride-On Cylinder Mowers Jacobsen G Plex Mower – Serviced John Deere 2653B (Ex Demo) 8 blade units, grass boxes - low hrs JD 2653A, 26” 8 blade units, spiral rollers, rear scrapers - 1491hrs JD 2653A, 26” 8 blade units, spiral rollers, rear scarpers – 2534hrs JD 2500B, 22” 11 blade units, new cyl. & bot.blades fitted – 2163hrs JD 2500, 22” 11 blade units, smooth tyres – 2881hrs JD 2500, 22” 11 blade units, groomers, brushers, grassboxes JD 2500A, 22” 11 blade units c/w: brushes, grass boxes – 3144hrs JD 3235B, 38hp, 4WD, 5 x 8 blade ESP units – 2691hrs JD 3235B, 35hp, 4WD, 22” 8 blade units, full cab – 2708 hrs JD 8400 Triple, 37hp, 30” units, various hours – choice of 2 JD 900 Triple, 28hp, 30” fixed units – choice of 2 Roberine 900 Triple, 28hp, 30” fixed units – choice of 2 Hayter LT324 Triple, 35hp, 6 blade units, 10” fixed heads Hayter T424, 5 gang, 6 blade, 30” units – choice of 2 Hayter TM539 trailed gang mower Hayter 749 trailed gang mower Ransome Highway 3, 33hp Kubota diesel engine – 1308 hours Commercial Pedestrian Mowers Huge choice of Ferris and Scag mowers – 36”, 48” 52” Zero Turn mowers.

Visit our new website: www.balmersgm.com

nd Golf

T: 01282 453900 E: sales@balmersgm.com

714986

Balmers GM, Trafalgar Street, Burnley, Lancs, BB11 1TQ SNOW CLEARANCE NEEDED ON A NATIONAL BASIS www.prolandscapermagazine.com

galvanised

£ 5’500 £ POA £ 6’750 £ 5’500 £ 8’500 £ 6’000 £ 5’750 £ 5’000 £ 7’500 £ 6’500 £ 12’750 £ 5’500 from £ 6’500 £ 6’900 from £ 9’000 £ 5’000 £ 3’000 £ 9’950

Do you have a tractor / teleporter? We need you to clear BalmersJune.indd 1 snow as part of our winter maintenance programme. Ideally we would like you to work locally to your base and clear CLASS.indd 75 snow from our clients’ sites. Competitive rates offered For all dependant on machinary type.

Pro Landscaper / August 2014 75 11/07/2014 11:02 16/07/2014 your golf, sportsturf and landscape irrigation needs.

15:20

The best choice on the block.

Quality concrete block paving for driveways.

Driveflair

StoneMaster 速

Woburn Rumbled

Monksbridge

Panache

For more information about Bradstone products or to find your nearest Bradstone stockist please call: 01335 372222 or visit www.bradstone.com For information on Bradstone Assured, our nationwide installer scheme, call: 01335 372228 or visit www.bradstone.com/assured

2014 Bradstone brochure and trade directory now available.

247XX Bradstone Prolandscaper August 265x210 AW.indd 1 ADVERTS TEMPLATES.indd 267

10/07/2014 11:29 16:22 14/07/2014