Pro Landscaper January 2013

Concept to Delivery

January 2013

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

Water Gems (Alba) Ltd

NEW WAVE Quality natural local materials were used to create a stunning tranquil space

Let’s Hear it From...

Richard Gardiner, Managing Director of Norris & Gardiner Ltd

Portfolios See how three companies design and implement their projects

FutureScape Review Photos and feedback from the event of 2012

January 2013 | Volume 3, Issue 1

REGULARS

PORTFOLIOS

4 News Shed Round-up of news from the industry

7 European

Plant News

33

18 Business Tips

Horticon Ltd

More useful advice from our regular team of columnists

29 Let’s Hear it From…

Richard Gardiner, director of Norris & Gardiner Ltd

36

44 Plantsman’s Plot

40

Water Gems (Alba) Ltd

Popular plants and trees on the market

Grace Landscapes

55 Latest Products

FEATURES

Artificial Grass, Lighting and Wildflowers

62 Trending Pro Landscaper takes a look at what’s different

9 FutureScape A review of the inaugural FutureScape event

EDITORIAL editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk Director – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@pro-landscaper.co.uk Tel: 01903 234077 Editorial Assistant – Rose Hales rose@pro-landscaper.co.uk EDITORIAL ADVISORY PANEL Mark Gregory Chairman APL and Landform Consultants Sam Hassall LandPRO Ltd Russell Eales Lawn Care expert Karl Harrison Decking expert Keith Sacre Tree expert FUTURESCAPE CO-ORDINATOR Joe Wilkinson joe.wilkinson@pro-landscaper.co.uk joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 234077

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

60 Out & About Pro Landscaper attended the BALI awards in London

ADVERTISING Business Development Manager Jamie Wilkinson Jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 234077 Sales Executive – Luke Chaplin luke.chaplin@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 234077 Sales Executive – Sophie Abbott sophie@pro-landscaper.co.uk Tel: 01903 234077 Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@pro-landscaper.co.uk jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 234077 GENERAL ENQUIRIES Tel: 01903 234077

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63 People

Twitter Masterclass Ellie Parry gives tips on successful use of social media

Look out for...

Steven Ellis, Events Diary and The Little Interview

MANAGEMENT Managing Director Jim Wilkinson Director Lisa Wilkinson

PRODUCTION Design and reproduction: Kara Thomas

Business Development Manager Jamie Wilkinson

Printed by Pensord Press Ltd, Gwent, UK

Office Manager Joe Wilkinson CIRCULATION Subscription Enquiries: lisa.wilkinson@pro-landscaper.co.uk Tel: 01903 234077 Pro Landscaper is published 12 times per year by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2013 subscription price is £95.00. Subscription records are maintained at Eljays44 Ltd, County House, 3 Shelley Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1TT, 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.

Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd – Business Intelligence

Business intelligence

Eljays44 Ltd County House, 3 Shelley Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1TT Tel: 01903 234077

The Association of

Professional Landscapers

Pro Landscaper is proud to be an affiliate member of BALI

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

January 2013

3

News Shed

Happy New Year!

We hope you all had a really enjoyable and relaxing Christmas, and are now ready to face 2013 with renewed vigour.

2013 will, we’re sure, throw up many challenges. Two things that we believe should be high on the agenda in 2013 are: pricing work to make a profit – sounds obvious but it’s not always easy, especially in this tough climate; undervaluing your work will have a detrimental effect, not only on your business but the industry as a whole.

Let’s make Secondly, and just as important, let’s sure the whole make sure the whole industry sings and industry sings and shouts about its successes. The louder the voice, the wider its reach, the better shouts about its the benefit. 2012 saw some amazing successes projects and luckily a lot of them were in the public eye and reflected superbly on the industry, but not all.

Let’s make a pact to promote all the excellent work; contractors and designers: be proud of your work – record it, photograph it, enter it into competitions, send it to us – SHOUT ABOUT IT. We hope you enjoy reading your first issue of the year, Pro Landscaper is now entering into its third year and we thank you for your continued support. We hope you all have a successful and happy 2013…

Jim and Lisa Wilkinson editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk

BALI event and AGM BALI will be hosting an event, “The meaning of life” with Tom Hart-Dyke, on Wednesday 16th January 2013, at Merrist Wood Campus, Guildford.

An enjoyable evening is guaranteed as Tom reveals how, among other things, he survived being kidnapped while hunting for orchids. The evening is preceded

by the BALI AGM (AGM for members only).

To book your seat for the event, contact Dawn Baker – dawn.baker@bali.org.uk by Friday 11th January latest. Cost £24 members/£28.80 nonmembers to include supper in Woody’s restaurant. www.bali.org.uk

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Hardwood Decking

Ipe • Balau • Oak • Garapa • Larch Components • Fastenings

www.roundwood.com Tel: 01435 867 072 OAK & DECKING PRODUCTS | OAK FRAMED BUILDINGS | HOME & GARDEN FEATURES

Quadron Services’ new Consultancy Service

Quadron’s new Consultancy Service will provide expertise and practical assistance to local authorities, stakeholder groups and other organisations to deliver a wide range of green space projects, including compiling green space management plans, preparing and managing Green Flag entries, sourcing and maximising funding opportunities, and developing

and managing sustainable sponsorship schemes.

Andrew Kauffman, team leader, commented, “Many local authorities have been downsized in the current economic climate and may not have the in-house resources to carry out green space projects. We aim to bridge that gap.” www.quadronenvironment.com/ service

Landscaping bodies’ water efficiency programme supported by Waterwise The professional bodies that represent the garden, landscape, turf and sports industries (APL, BALI, HTA, IOG, RHS, SGD and TGA) are delighted to report support by the water industry of a project to develop an e-learning programme on water efficiency. This follows meetings between the two sectors after the implementation of Temporary Use

Bans by seven water companies in April 2012. The project aims to provide a robust and sustainable training model on water efficiency that is particularly suited to the landscape and sports sectors. The project will be managed by Waterwise, the organisation acknowledged as the leading UK authority on water efficiency.

News Shed

Glendale supports England’s Heritage As part of a new five year partnership between Glendale and English Heritage, Glendale will provide a Head Gardener and Assistant Head Gardener to deliver a comprehensive programme of specialist grounds maintenance and development services for Richmond Castle and Mount Grace Priory in North Yorkshire, and Barnard Castle in County Durham. “Glendale is delighted to have been given this unique opportunity. We look forward to

demonstrating our expertise in specialist horticultural and grounds management solutions,” comments David Fontana, Glendale’s Regional Support Manager in the North. www.glendale-services.co.uk

Willerby Landscapes thanks partners Willerby Landscapes has posted its appreciation to its partners on its website after becoming proud joint winner of the BALI 40th Anniversary Commemorative Award and joint Principal winner for Soft Landscaping Construction over £1.5 million for the Queen

Elizabeth Olympic Park, at the BALI National Landscape Awards 2012. Special mention was given to Skanka Infrastructure Service, Waterscapes Ltd, LDA Design with Hargreaves Associates, Professors James Hitchmough and Nigel Dunnett of the University of Sheffield, and landscape designer Sarah Price. Operations Director Rick Davies said, “Winning these prestigious awards could not have been achieved without the support and collaboration of many project teams.” www.willerby-landscapes.co.uk

Investors in People accreditation for Tony Benger Landscaping Tony Benger Landscaping is delighted to have been awarded the Investors in People accreditation by LANTRA. Business Manager Julian Stanley said, “we chose Investors in People because the standards and principles were closely aligned with our own development vision, and LANTRA because they understand our business sector.” Help was also received from Yvette Etcell, (Business Development & HR Director, Gavin Jones Ltd). Julian said, “we gained a huge amount of inspiration and advice from Yvette”. Yvette Etcell said, “we’re glad that Tony Benger Landscaping felt our discussions helped – we are delighted for the team.” www.tonybengerlandscaping.co.uk

NURSERY NEWS Provender Nurseries: The complete package – your garden design starts here...

With the merger of Wyevale East Horticulture and East Horticulture comes the new wholesale plant and landscape supply company the horticultural industry has been waiting for – Provender Nurseries.

After nine years of working side by side, the value of providing an improved service to our existing customers has been realised and as a result, Provender Nurseries is born. Working closely with designers, landscapers and all other sectors of the horticultural industry we can deliver all your needs in one drop, saving you time, expense and logistics. Already providing a great service and the finest plants, tools, soils and hard materials, the 17-acre site is well stocked with everything you could need to complete a job. We pride ourselves on the personal touch and an unparalleled understanding of the industry. Provender Nurseries looks forward to the trading year ahead, serving our existing customers even better and welcoming new customers over the threshold.

www.provendernurseries.co.uk

News Shed

NEWS IN BRIEF Grant Associates awards success for Singapore project

4th Annual Jacksons Garden Design Competition

Grant Associates wins two Design For Asia Awards 2012 for masterplanning the design of Gardens by the Bay, the 54 hectare leisure attraction in Singapore.

Job opportunities

This month there are some fantastic job opportunities on offer. Please see page 17 for further information.

Design students win opportunity to design Square

Two landscape architecture students from the University of Greenwich, Anna Sjeczak and Patricia Paegle, have won a nationwide competition to design a new square in Kirkby, Nottinghamshire.

Revised Vision for Glee

Glee reveals vision for 2013 and beyond, the main change is a return to the show’s Sunday to Tuesday format and a considered move to new halls in 2014.

Following the success of the show gardens project over the last three years, Jacksons is pleased to announce that the popular design competition aimed at garden designers and landscape architects will run for a fourth year. Winning designs are brought to life at the fencing company’s HQ in Kent, and with two previous years’ winners going on to achieve subsequent success as RHS Gold medal winners, this is a sign that

the Jacksons project is a ‘hotbed’ of burgeoning talent.To find out more info and see the previous year’s show gardens project log on to: www. jacksons-fencing.co.uk/show-gardens To register your interest, please email: louise.tomlin@jacksons-fencing. co.uk with your contact details and a brief outline of your credentials.

Please state if you are a student and where you are studying. www.jacksons-fencing.co.uk

Namgrass sets its sights on UK expansion The Belgian producer of quality artificial grass has increased its representation (Peter Van Praet), distribution and warehouse in the UK to capitalise on the ever increasing popularity of the product.

Namgrass is a totally vertically integrated company and there is no middle man involved in production,

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Oak Framed Buildings

Garages • Gazebos • Dining Areas Outbuildings • Smoking Shelters

www.roundwood.com Tel: 01435 867 072 OAK & DECKING PRODUCTS | OAK FRAMED BUILDINGS | HOME & GARDEN FEATURES

it positions itself at the quality end of the domestic market and offers a 10-year warranty. Currently Namgrass has 10 different products available in the UK and offers next-day delivery. Namgrass UK is owned by Tim and Rob Redcliffe. www.namgrass.co.uk

The Landscape Group awarded five-year contract The team is thrilled to have been chosen to provide grounds maintenance services to Stratfordupon-Avon District Council from 1st April 2013. The town is famed around the world as Shakespeare’s birthplace, welcoming millions of visitors each year. The majority of these visitors will pass the town’s floral displays and walk through the Bancroft Gardens during their exploration of the town, making it imperative that these spaces and the town always look their best.

The District Council asked all bidding firms to put together a variant bid with added-value proposals, in addition to providing a core bid. The Landscape Group’s proposals include an increased frequency of grass cutting to all high profile verges and additional training of staff to allow them to operate as Park Wardens, increasing security in the town centre. www.thelandscapegroup.co.uk

European Plant News

TENDERCARE

Mature & Formal Hardy Plants

Europe’s green flagship continues to boom The cream of the world’s nursery sector will again be present at IPM Essen 2013. Held from January 22 – 25, this key event will provide a comprehensive overview of the market.

From the complete diversity of plants and flowers via floristry highlights right up to the newest trends from technology, equipment and services – over 1,500 exhibitors from more than 40 countries will present themselves at the world’s premier fair in the green sector.

The leading position of IPM

Essen will once again be underpinned not only by constant growth in the international flavour amongst exhibitors but also by an even greater and more extensive plant range to inspect.

The sectoral meeting point at Messe Essen expects around 60,000 trade visitors who will want to establish business contacts and consolidate existing ones. The demand for information about innovations, market opportunities and future perspectives in the green sector shows little sign of abating.

Global players drawn to Essen, Germany

Unrivalled range of mature plants To provide instant effect in your planting schemes.

Plants in the 'Nurseryman's Art' exquisitely formed and pruned trees.

Maturity Matters - Semi-mature trees 'character', parkland and avenue specimens including graceful conifers.

Trees - 'Through the garden gate' ideal for the smaller garden.

Japanese maples and bamboos admired the World over.

Shrubs for the connoisseur larger than sold by your garden centre 10L to 1000L pots.

Fruit trees - perfect for the Potager! Mature trees, espalier, fan-trained and 'step-overs'.

Hedges-for privacy and structure prepared units to form'instant', clipped runs.

Plants of the Mediterranean - and 'Planthunter' exotics - olives, palms and spikey plants for the arid and tropical look.

Wall-trained shrubs and climbers grown and trained for immediate impact.

'Instant borders' - seasonal herbaceous plants, ferns and grasses - foliage and flowering plants, deciduous and evergreen, to add form, texture and colour for any location.

The truly global nature of this event is outlined further by the news that Korea will make their debut in the technology section.

They are joined by Sri Lanka as debutants at IPM Essen. The Baltic States (Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia) will also be partners of the International Horticultural Forum on Eastern Europe. In the specialist forum, experts will provide information about new market opportunities in the horticultural and plant industries in this region.

The Green City theme will continue its promotion in 2013, www.prolandscapermagazine.com

as will the best innovations within the plant breeding sector. For the landscape professional across both architecture and contracting, this is the one event not to be missed. The sheer volume and wide variety of plant material on show makes this an absolute ‘must visit’ for the new year.

IPM ESSEN 2013 will be open exclusively to trade visitors every day from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. on January 22 – 25, 2013. www.ipm-essen.de

Exotic specimen plants for interior landscaping -Flowering & evergreen specimen tropical and arid plants. Citrus trees to 2.5m Aloes, agaves to 160L grown in our 125m2 greenhouse. Extensive range of containers, sundries & expert advice.

We source and hand-select plants worldwide from over 150 specialist and unique growers Nationwide Delivery Planting Services Southlands Road, Denham, Middlesex UB9 4HD 01895 835544 sales@tendercare.co.uk www.tendercare.co.uk Open Monday - Saturday 8am - 5pm

FutureScape went well for us, it was good to meet so many new faces

We had a great day out at Kempton Park racecourse, thanks to the organisers and all who visited us at our stand at FutureScape 01590 683487 agrumi.co.uk info@agrumi.co.uk

Online Nursery - One Stop Shop Shrubs and Perennials from 1ltr Herbs and Alpines 9cm to 25cm Grasses and Ferns Traditional and Bespoke Topiary Box, Taxus, Citrus, Olive, Bay and Bamboo Specimen Trees & Shrubs 10 to 1,000 litres

Come to our Open Week 11th - 17th Feb at Agrumi Limited, Meadow Farm, Sway Road, Tiptoe, Lymington, Hampshire SO41 6FR

FutureScape Review

20th November 2012 Kempton Park Racecourse www.futurescapeevent.com

FutureScape, held in late November was well attended by contractors, designers and landscape architects who were there to see some of the industry’s leading products and services, as well as attending over 19 free business led seminars.

On the following pages you will get a flavour of the first ever FutureScape event, which included an excellent one to one interview with Mark Gregory of Landform Consultants, and four of the landscaping industry’s leading garden designers took questions from a packed audience in ‘The Detail is in the Design’. Finally, the day was rounded off by a robust and honest debate hosted by Noel Farrer of Farrer Huxley Associates landscape architects.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

January 2013

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FutureScape Review

More images at: www.prolandscapermagazine.com

A packed, fun-filled day of exhibitions and seminars at the first FutureScape event...

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January 2013

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

YOUR feedback...

Massive congratulations to team behind @FutureScapeUK @Lisaeljays @ProLandscaperJW Janine Pattison @janinepattison Had a thoroughly great day at @FutureScapeUK.Thanks to @Jimeljays and all at Pro Landscaper and all my fellow panelists. Good event.

John Wyer @WyerJohn Great presentation at @FutureScapeUK. @ProLandscaperJW put on a fantastic show.

Fabulous atmosphere.

Ana Mari Bull @AnaMariBull

Great day yesterday at the @FutureScapeUK event! Thanks to all at #ProLandscaper Garden House Design @GardenHouseDsgn

Had a great time at #FutureScape yesterday. #ProLandscaper did a fantastic job in organising the event BALI @BALI_News Big thanks to @Jimeljays, @Lisaeljays & all the #ProLandscaper team for a great day at @FutureScapeUK. Fantastic atmosphere, smiles all round Lindum @lindumturf

Congratulations to @ProLandscaperJW for a fantastic show @FutureScapeUK - the quality of enquiries was exceptional!

Gavin Jones Ltd @GavinJonesLtd

Next year’s FutureScape event will take place on 19th November 2013.

For more information, please contact Jamie Wilkinson: 01903 234077 - Jamie.Wilkinson@eljays44.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Bravo to Jim and the team at Eljays for creating a great event. Having exhibited we found the audience perfect for our products. Having spent all day following up and realising we have one order today and already specified for some substantial projects. A huge thank you from Exterior Decking and Exterpark.

Karl Harrison (via LinkedIn)

January 2013

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Association News – APL 1 The supreme winning garden by the Garden Builders, at the 2012 APL Awards

garden landscaping products.

Please either call 01335 372228 ensuring you quote the reference APLBA 1213 or visit: www.aggregate.com/bradstone/ installation-service/

The Association of

Professional Landscapers

Awards 2013 Details announced for next year’s ceremony, to be held at Roof Gardens

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he APL Awards 2013 presentation lunch, sponsored by Bradstone, will take place on Wednesday 13th March 2013. Each year since 1995 APL has been proud to recognise and reward the high standard of landscape contracting carried out

by APL registered members, and 2013 will be no exception.

Our exper t judging panel met in December to review the entries and pick the all-impor tant winner of the prestigious Supreme Award. The panel includes Mark Gregory, APL Chairman; Richard Barnhard, Hillier Landscapes; Adam Frost, Adam Frost Designs; Juliette Rober tson, Editor of Gardens Illustrated; and Sarah Eberle, landscape architect.

The ceremony will again be held at the stunning Roof Gardens, located one hundred feet above Kensington High Street in central London, they are truly spectacular with three themed gardens covering 1.5 acres, over 70 full size trees growing in just 1.5m of soil, a stream stocked with fish and wildlife and four resident flamingos.

The awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the best 12

January 2013

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in British landscaping and promote members’ commitment to quality landscaping. www.aplawards.co.uk APL Networking Seminar – Ethical & Sustainable Landscaping Following the success of the two previous networking seminars, the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) is delighted to invite you to a seminar and networking event for landscapers and garden designers at Classiflora, Essex on Wednesday 6th March 2013 from 4pm until 7.30pm.

The theme for the seminar is the important issue of Ethical and Sustainable Landscaping and will feature a topical and timely programme featuring presentations by experienced industry figures

Each presentation will provide advice and guidance on bio-diverse and sustainable landscaping solutions from industry professionals with experience of using these eco-friendly solutions.

There will also be time during the seminar for you to network with other landscapers and designers.

Places cost just £15 + VAT per person for APL and SGD members or £30 + VAT per person for non-members. For further details and to book your place, please contact the APL events team by emailing events@the-hta.org.uk or calling 0118 930 3132. www.landscaper.org.uk Exclusive offer from Bradstone Mark Gregory, the APL Chairman, is delighted to announce a special offer from Bradstone Assured, of

The awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the best in British Landscaping including Wayne Langford, Director of Sudscape Ltd and Tim Edwards from Boningale Nurseries, focusing on topics such as Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDs) and the regulations surrounding them, and green roof growing systems.

50% off the annual subscription which is usually £300. This great offer, which is exclusive to APL members, gives you the opportunity to link up with Bradstone – one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of 2

RHS/APL ‘Low Cost, High Impact’ Show Garden Competition... there’s still time to enter!

RHS and APL have teamed up for a second exciting year inviting APL members exclusively to design ‘Low Cost, High Impact’ gardens at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2013.

Why should you enter? The facts from RHS Hampton Court Flower Show 2011: ●G reat media exposure – press coverage reached 27 million people in 2012 and was worth approximately £402K ●T elevision coverage – reached 16 million people adio coverage – more than ●R 23 hours of coverage were broadcast across 24 of the BBC English Regions nline coverage – RHS Online ●O received 1.4 million page views romoting your business to the ●P consumer – a winning show garden is a lifetime of wowing potential clients

Considering all of the above it is definitely worth submitting an entry. Let your imagination flow!

How to enter To enter the competition go to: www.rhs.org.uk/ Hampton-2013/LCHIgarden-applications or email exhibitorapplications@rhs. org.uk Entry deadline 17 January 2013 www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Seats

Litter Bins

Bollards

Shelters

Studs

Cycle Stands

Signage

Best get in early to avoid disappointment!

Balustrades & Railings

s Lunch-time ircus dilly C are like Pica got these since they ches. nice new ben

Stainless Steel Poles

BenchMark. Off-the-shelf street furniture that doesn’t look it.

Now Gatic offers the best of both worlds. With StreetWise you can have project-specific street furniture to your own design or choose from our new BenchMark series.

Advertising Drums

The BenchMark range looks exactly like an expensive custom-built product but is in fact, readily available off-the-shelf. The new range features corrosion resistant 316 stainless steel, rugged machined Iroko hardwood and an attractive oval design motif and section.

More than just benches

Sculptures

As well as the benches, seats, bins and bollards, shown here, there is a list of more than 20 other, equally stylish stock items available, covering every conceivable street furniture requirement – from balustrades to bus shelters and from sculptures to tree protection.

If we don’t have what you need, just ask and we’ll make it for you.

Bespoke design service Bursting with your own ideas about the kind of street furniture best suited to your project? Why not talk to our design team? We can help you refine your ideas and bring them to production.

Bump Rails

To find out more or to discuss a project with one of our advisors, please visit www.gatic.com or call our StreetWise team on +44 (0)1304 203545

Door Barriers

Kerbing

Internal Bollards

Cladding

Rosettes

Skirting

Corner Guards

Specialised Engineering. Special Advice.

Wall Guards

Tree Protection

Benches

Association News – SGD

And the winners are...

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The inaugural SGD Awards took place in London. Read on to see who picked up the coveted new awards...

O

ver 250 people gathered in London’s Millennium Gloucester hotel last month to hear designer and broadcaster James Alexander-Sinclair reveal the winners in the inaugural SGD Awards. Described by Awards sponsor David Johnson of Barcham Trees as ‘the SGD Oscars night’, the sell-out ceremony saw the great and good of the horticultural world, from students and teachers to designers and nurserymen, come together for a night of celebration.

Over 80 entries were received for the 2012 Awards and the 20 shortlisted finalists were among the guests anxious to hear the judges’ verdict. The SGD Awards organiser, Helen Elks-Smith MSGD said, ‘It is fantastic that the Awards have attracted such a high quality and number of entries, particularly in the first year. The calibre of the work submitted underlies the importance of professional garden design and illustrates what can be achieved by great collaborations between client, designer and contractor.’

Her thoughts were echoed by SGD Chair Juliet Sargeant MSGD who, on addressing the audience at the start of the ceremony, said the Awards had been a natural development from thirty years of work on the part of the SGD to promote excellence in garden design.

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January 2013

One of the most successful entrants on the night was Ian Kitson FSGD whose sculptural design for a private garden in East Sussex swept the board with award wins in three of the 15 categories. Reflecting on his achievements he said, ‘the client was trusting and brave to let me design and deliver this garden. The garden design process is often a lonely place where the designer is both judge and jury of their own ideas so having your vision reaffirmed by, in this case, a particularly thoughtful and diverse judging panel, is very special.

These awards are also important for the SGD in promoting public perception of quality garden design beyond the show garden, so I urge any designer who has realised their vision to enter in 2013.’

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It is fantastic that the Awards have attracted such a high quality and number of entries, particularly in the first year 3

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Association News – SGD

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The most prestigious award of the night – The Grand Award – went to Dan Pearson MSGD for the 400-acre Tokachi Millennium Forest in Northern Japan. This recently opened ecological park was so named as the owner’s aim is to produce a sustainable vision for the land there for a thousand years. The judging panel called it ‘An internationally significant project’ adding that it ‘appeared completely effortless and natural’.

They praised it as ‘extraordinarily skillful’ and concluded that it was ‘more beautiful than any other entry submitted’. The project was also named joint winner in the International category with an ambitious project in the Rocky Mountains by Society Fellow John Wyer FSGD. One of the closing speeches was made by John Brookes MBE FSGD who announced the first winner of The John Brookes Award – a Lifetime Achievement Award – granted to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the landscape and garden design profession. The Award, which was gifted by the SGD Council, was given to the landscape architect, garden designer and author Charles Jencks. In his address to the audience Brookes confessed to being ‘somewhat in awe of this man’ saying that he found his round

1 Elizabeth Banks and Joe Swift MSGD 2 The 2012 SGD Awards finalists 3 Ian Kitson FSGD - winner of the Hard Landscape, Medium Residential and Judges Awards

4 Dan Pearson MSGD - Grand Award and International Award winner

5 Juliet Sargeant MSGD and John Brookes FSGD

6 Tom Hoblyn MSGD and Andy Sturgeon FSGD

7H uw Morgan of Dan Pearson’s Studio.

8 Helen Elks-Smith MSGD with John Wyer FSGD

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9 Andrew Wilson FSGD - Public and Communal Space Award

works quite amazing and concluding that Charles Jencks ‘could lead us in caring for our landscapes with a far deeper meaning’ and was therefore a worthy winner of the award. www.sgd.org.uk The SGD 2012 Awards winners 1. International Award (Landform Consultants) – Dan Pearson MSGD and John Wyer FSGD (joint winners) 2. Public or Communal Outdoor Space Award (Palmstead) – Andrew Wilson FSGD 3. Large Residential Garden Award (Gloster) – Ian Smith MSGD 4. Medium Residential Garden Award (Euro Plants) – Ian Kitson FSGD 5. Small Residential Garden Award (Stonemarket) – Pat Fox MSGD 6. Future Designers Award (Barcham) – Lynne Marcus (Pre-Registered Member) 7. Student Designer Award (Architectural Plants) – Jon Sims (Student Member) 8. Landscape Sustainability Award (Scotscape) – Juliet Sargeant MSGD 9. Planting Design Award (Instant Landscapes) – Amanda Patton MSGD 10. Hard Landscape Award (Stockscape) – Ian Kitson FSGD 11. Garden Lighting Award (John Cullen) – Charlotte Rowe MSGD 12.The Judges Award (David Harber) – Ian Kitson FSGD 13. The Grand Award (Lorenz von Ehren) – Dan Pearson MSGD 14. The People’s Choice Award (Homes & Gardens) – Andrew Wilson FSGD 15. The John Brookes Award (Alitex) – Charles Jencks

For details of all the 2012 award winners and images of the ceremony visit: www.sgdawards.com.

The closing date for the 2013 SGD Awards is 12 April 2013.

(Early bird discounts apply to designers who register interest and make payment before 8 March 2013.)

January 2013

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Association News – BALI

BALI briefing 2013 – Raising the BALI profile

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January 2013

1 The BALI National Landscape Awards 2 BALI members in the 2010 Three Peaks Challenge

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n December we celebrated BALI members’ expertise and professionalism at the glittering BALI National Landscape Awards in association with Horticulture Week. Over 730 people gathered at the Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London, for the networking event of the year!

Both of the two main awards – the Grand Award (won by P Casey (Land Reclamation) Ltd for the restoration of Lichfield’s historic city centre parks) and the unique 40th Anniversary Commemorative Award for Outstanding Excellence in British Landscaping (awarded to the BALI contractors responsible for the soft landscaping at the Olympic Park – Frosts Landscape Construction, Gavin Jones, White Horse Contractors and Willerby Landscapes) – went to public space schemes that have undoubtedly raised BALI’s profile - in the case of the Olympic Park, both nationally and globally.

The Olympic and Paralympic Games were unprecedented opportunities to trumpet British landscaping and BALI is very proud that those who delivered the Olympic Park landscape are

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BALI contractors. Congratulations to them all.

Commercial clients are largely aware of what BALI stands for and actively seek out our members to create and maintain their landscape schemes but we have a distance to go before the BALI brand is widely recognised by consumers. And so, 2013 will see BALI promoting the BALI logo at every opportunity. Members in the Yorkshire and North East Region will be designing and building a show garden at the Harrogate Spring Flower Show in April, and BALI will once again have a stand/ garden in the ‘Fresh’ area of the Chelsea Flower Show in May, designed by BALI Associate Designer Charlotte Murrell and built by BALI members in the South East. The response by members of the public to our ‘Fresh’ stand at Chelsea 2012 was such that we want to build on that result and promote the benefits of using BALI members i.e. ‘Quality, Expertise and Peace of Mind’, and combine that message with a practical demonstration of our members’ work. BALI will be at: ● The Garden & Home Press Event, Barbican, London,

on 14th February HS London Plant & ●R Design Show, RHS Horticultural Halls on 19th/20th February ● E cobuild, London’s ExCeL, 5th-7th March

3 Grand Award Winner P Casey (Land Reclamation) Ltd. A view of Lichfield’s historic city centre park.

Pillocks on the Hillocks, take two!

Back in 2010, a group of BALI members were joined by industry colleagues on a 24 hour ‘Three Peaks Challenge’ to raise money for the Greenfingers Charity. In the event

Both of the two main awards went to public space schemes that have undoubtedly raised BALI's profile Regional AGMs BALI’s Chief Operations Officer Wayne Grills, National Chairman Chris Carr and Vice Chairman Bob Field, will be attending the regional AGM’s to give members an update on future plans for the Association.

Dates as follows:

North Thames Tuesday 8 January South Thames Wednesday 16 January East Anglia Tuesday 22 January North West Thursday 24 January Yorkshire & North East Thursday 7 February Midlands Monday 25 February South West and Wales Wednesday 27 February Scotland Thursday 14 March

they climbed Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, all in 24 hours and in storm conditions and high winds.

Their efforts were not in vain though, they raised £15,000 and now some of the original team are planning to do it all again, but with a twist. Over six days in early September 2013, a much larger team of 24 volunteers will climb all three peaks AND cycle the 450 miles between them.The Three Peaks Extreme Challenge 2013 will raise money for one of BALI's two chosen charities Perennial, the wider horticultural industry's own benevolent fund. If you think you’ve got what it takes (or can get it!), Richard Gardiner of BALI contractor Norris & Gardiner (richard@norg.co.uk) or Brian Herbert of Outdoor Options (brian@outdooroptions.co.uk) would really like to hear from you, even if you’re not a BALI member. We like to spread the pain! www.bali.org.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

New Year Opportunities at Frosts Landscape Construction Frosts Landscape Construction has been established as an award winning renowned force in the landscaping market for more than sixty years with a Group turnover of £30 million. We are looking for enthusiastic team players available to start in February/early March 2013 to drive the domestic side of the business forward and realise potential from the associated client base of our prestigious garden centres.

Both positions will work from our Design Studio in Woburn Sands, Bucks, covering neighbouring counties and London.

GARDEN DESIGNER

GARDEN DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION MANAGER

You will design, estimate and manage the construction and planting of domestic garden projects, from the initial enquiry and site survey through to completion of the build within budget. You will be a creative and talented Designer, with the ability to fully understand and interpret client requirements, and manage through to build with excellent customer care skills.

We are looking for a strong manager with a landscape design background and extensive experience of seeing projects through to build. Reporting to the Managing Director, you will be challenged with growing the business in line with targets and budgets, and having overall responsibility for the Design and Site teams. Your prime objective will be to develop the business but you will also design and manage projects/clients of your own.

REQUIRED SKILLS • Ability to produce high quality hand drawn designs and planting plans • Competent in computer aided design systems such as Vectorworks/CAD/ Sketchup • Proficient in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint • Professional approach to both suppliers and clients • Sound experience of estimating and managing projects through to build

REQUIRED SKILLS As for the Garden Designer position, with additional proven management experience Please e mail your CV with indicative salary and examples of your design work to Lisa Houghton at: lhoughton@frostslandscapes.com

Frosts ad.indd 1

21/12/2012 08:19

Norris & Gardiner are seeking a proactive

Contracts Manager, based in Woking, Surrey

Job Purpose: To promote the services of Norris and Gardiner and ensure the smooth and profitable running of all designated contracts,whilst striving to exceed our clients’ expectations.

Responsibilities & Accountabilities include: • Client liaison • Pricing Jobs/Contracts • Compliance monitoring • Budget & Resource Management Salary c£30k plus vehicle Apply by email to richard@norg.co.uk

N&G.indd 1

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

21/12/2012 09:04

January 2013

17

Business Tips

Most people believe that the pitch is the most important part of the sales process; in my experience it is vitally important but just a tiny piece of the puzzle. By the time you deliver your presentation, your prospect should be 80% of the way towards making a buying decision.

They will typically have already decided “if ” they are going to buy from you – you are simply presenting “what” they are going to buy.

Selling is a transfer of enthusiasm, creating a ball of energy and passing it on to your prospect. Being enthusiastic talks straight to the subconscious mind and promotes enthusiasm in return, which itself is a catalyst to a buying decision.

In theory you should be able to present your products or services with no major props. If you can do that, you will then only add marketing material that supports your presentation and not hide behind your literature.

Every successful presentation follows a structure, and should include a beginning, middle and end. This sounds simple; but the number of presentations I see that are all middle is still in abundance.

Beginning The beginning is your chance to set the scene and educate your prospect that your meeting has moved on and they will soon have a decision to make. Make a powerful opening statement that sets the scene: “It’s great to talk with you today and demonstrate how we can help create your perfect…”

Then put your audience at ease by letting them know what to expect by sharing your agenda with them: “I will share with you a little about how we work and what makes us different, explain our range of services and give you three different options for your desired garden. I will then find out what questions you have before you make a decision on the way forward.”

By giving them a verbal or written agenda they understand what to expect and it helps you to keep control.

Middle The middle of a presentation is where the main responsibility is to give your audience enough information to make a buying decision. I would 18

January 2013

The Perfect Pitch

Preparing your perfect pitch is all about having a solid structure as Phil Jones advises

Selling is a transfer of enthusiasm, creating a ball of energy and passing it on to your prospect

always look to consider three main areas: ● Your history and credibility – let your listeners understand all about you and your company.

Share the type of companies that you work with and instil confidence that you are more than capable of delivering for them. Drop in names of existing customers and words that others have used to describe you. ● Product or service overview – always provide a shopping list of all your products and services.You never know what they may also be interested in buying from you. ● The one product/service for them – finally give them your recommendations for the solution that they make a decision on today; keep this as simple as possible.

You will need a powerful opening and close to your middle to keep attention. Keep questions to a minimum and if necessary they must be simple, closed and bring positive engaging answers so as not to lose control.

End Providing your presentation was interesting enough, at some point you will have lost the

full attention of those listening. This is because something you said had interested them and they started to think about applying your solutions and may have missed something. It is paramount that they feel they have all the information before they make a decision thus it is essential that you summarise what you have told them before closing.You must then close by asking for a decision.

I would encourage you to prepare a default presentation for each of your products and then tailor it each time you need to use it. That way you are always perfectly prepared.

ABOUT PHIL JONES Phil Jones has been in business since he was 14 years’ old and has been fine-tuning his sales process since. Published author of Toolbox and an award-winning business educator, Phil has been instrumental in turning around underperforming businesses and his expertise makes him an invaluable resource for organisations to tap into.

Email enquiries@philmjones.com, or telephone 01527 531 393. www.philmjones.com www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Business Tips

Getting the LISS/CSCS application right first time The Landbased Industry Skills Scheme /

Construction Skills Certification Scheme (LISS/CSCS) is a mandatory prerequisite for anyone carrying out works under National Highways Sector Scheme 18 (NHSS18) and are gaining popularity amongst the profession as a means of demonstrating that a certain level of competence has been achieved. Landscapers wishing to obtain a LISS/CSCS card via the industry accreditation route (thereby potentially saving thousands of pounds) have until 31st October 2013 to do so.

The scheme is administered by the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI).

As the closing date draws ever nearer, BALI is seeing an increase in the number of applicants. Several applications are rejected initially, so Jodie Read spent time talking to BALI’s Jessica Consolaro to find out how to improve the chances of getting the submission right first time.

The LISS/CSCS application form can be found on BALI’s website: www.bali.org.uk/ quality_assurance/liss_cscs. When filling in your application, ensure that it can be processed straight away by ensuring that you take on board the lessons from less successful applications.

Section A1 If you don’t know what your Registration Number is, leave it blank. As long as you provide the National Insurance Number and Date of Birth, BALI can access the CSCS database and ensure the correct details are recorded for you.

Section A2 More of a tip for employers than something that will cause the form to be rejected; before sending www.prolandscapermagazine.com

off the application forms, you may like to check that all staff have selected ‘the company address in section C’ as the option for where the card will be sent. After all, if you’ve paid for it, you will almost certainly want to satisfy yourself that the card has arrived correctly. You will probably also want to copy the details onto the employee’s training records.

Section A4 Sign the form!

Section B1 – Health & Safety Requirements Applicants are required to tick to confirm that they ‘meet current LISS/CSCS Health & Safety requirements.’ The requirements for the industry accreditation route are: ●A ttend a Register of Landbased Operatives (ROLO) Health, Safety and Environmental Awareness course. (Details of course providers can be found on BALI’s website: www.bali.org.uk/quality_assurance/rolo) ● Pass the Construction Skills Health and Safety touch screen test. (Note that this should be at the same level as the card being applied for; so a manager should have undertaken the test for managers etc.) To book a CSCS test call the information and booking line on 0344 994 4488.

Both the ROLO course and CSCS touch screen test should have been completed within the last two years.

Occupation Title The only occupations that BALI can accept are detailed on their Frequently Asked Questions page: www.bali.org.uk/quality_assurance/liss_cscs/ faq. For landscapers seeking approval via the industry accreditation route, the options are: Green – Basic Operative (a non-skilled worker who is part of the workforce) Blue – Skilled worker / skilled operative Gold – Supervisor Black – Manager By which route For those seeking approval via industry accreditation, it’s easy to tick the right box. Note that some trades (such as arboriculture and pesticides are not eligible for industry accreditation).

Section C Applicants cannot self certify. This form must be completed by someone else. For self employed applicants, it is acceptable to ask a client to act as the signatory.

ABOUT JODIE READ Jodie Read is the Managing Director of Penarth Management Limited; a company which helps to make businesses better, greener and safer through the provision of specialist compliance consultancy and training for quality, environmental, health and safety management. She and her colleagues assist companies to implement and maintain management systems, such as

ISO9001, NHSS18, ISO14001 and OHSAS18001.

Jodie is also one of only a few approved ROLO trainers in the country. The company is an affiliate member of BALI and one of the first ever winners of the prestigious BALI Affiliate Award for Exceptional Service. If readers have any queries regarding ROLO, LISS/CSCS or management systems, they are welcome to contact Jodie via email: jodie@ penarth.co.uk or by telephone on 029 2070 3328.

January 2013

19

Business Tips

The costs of building walls

Part 2: Brickwork

Scope In this section we begin examination of the operations and costs of constructing walls on a landscape site. The previous article dealt with the foundations. This second part will deal with the costs of brickwork..

Notes on the following tables ● All items are shown at cost (readers should allow for profit). ● The labour rate used is £19.50 per hour. ● Labour works a productive seven hour day

As can be seen by the above, the process of costing the wall consists of different elements which have to be added together to give a total for the whole wall from excavation to coping. The tables below and in the

BRICKS

1

The following items are addressed in the tables below. Readers can choose which option they wish to use and then build up prices for the planting operations.These will be addressed in the cost issues as shown:

● Carting of bricks ● Mixing of mortar ●B rickwork ● Brick copings

previous article should be combined to build a cost for these items.

We are assuming that as the wall are external walls that they are face work both sides.

The following tables shows the brick quantities and the costs for bricks for standard brick walls...

Price per 1000 £

½ brick 102.5 mm

1 brick 215mm

1½ brick 327.5 mm

2 brick 440 mm

Bricks /m2

59.3

118.5

177.8

237.00

400

23.70

47.41

71.11

94.81

500

29.63

59.26

88.89

118.52

600

35.56

71.11

106.67

142.22

700

41.48

82.96

124.44

165.93

800

47.41

94.81

142.22

189.63

900

53.33

106.67

160.00

213.33

1000

59.26

118.52

177.78

237.04

2

MORTAR

Add to this the costs of mortar...

3

Volume of mortar m3 / m2 of walling Wall type

No frogs

Single frogs

Double frogs

½ Brick

0.019

0.022

0.026

1 Brick

0.046

0.055

0.064

1.½ brick

0.063

0.074

0.088

2 Brick

0.092

0.110

0.128

Example based on the above two tables Mortar (1:3) required for 1 m2 of 1 brick thick wall with a single frog: Aggregates delivered in bulk bags.

Cost of mortar = 0.055 (m3/m2 of brickwork /m2 x £165.96/m3 = £9.12 /m2 20

January 2013

MORTAR MIXING RATES

Mortar mixing rates based on 0.75 man-hours /m3 mixed on site and delivered to the point of use. £/m3 Lime 25kg bags

Sand m3

Mix

Cement bags

1 tonne bags

10 t loads

1:3

21.6

1.1

165.96

125.66

1:4

16

1.2

155.13

111.18

1:1:6

10.8

5.2

1.1

183.38

143.08

1:2:9

8

6

1.2

189.73

145.78

0:1:3

0

10.8

1.1

95.76

164.54

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Business Tips 4

BRICKWORK COSTS

The costs of brickwork are simply calculated on how many bricks laid to the quality standard required can be laid by the brickwork team per day.

The following tables show the costs of laying bricks based on the team size and the type of wall being laid ● Readers should choose the laying rate of their team for the particular situation they are building the wall in ● The labour hours are based on a productive time of seven hours per day

All items shown at cost – allow for profit

Table showing rate per ms for brickwork labour Half brick walls Bricks laid

400

500

600

700

day

Area completed

6.75

8.44

10.13

11.81

m per day

2 man team

40.44

32.36

26.96

23.11

£/m2

3 man team

60.67

48.53

40.44

34.67

£/m2

Bricks laid

400

500

600

700

day

2

1 brick walls Area completed

3.38

4.22

5.06

5.91

m per day

2 man team

80.89

64.71

53.93

46.22

£/m2

3 man team

121.33

97.07

80.89

69.33

£/m2

2

EXAMPLES The following examples show how a calculation may be made using the data from this and the previous cost article on foundations

The analyses performed within this article are only examples – readers are therefore responsible for the accuracy of their final calculations

Wall of 5 lm; Set out proposed wall: Excavate trench 150 mm deeper than footing; Pour footing; Construct brickwork as shown; Mortar 1:3 heights measured overall Footing

Brickwork

Footing 400 x 150; Hand excavation; Half brick wall 1.20 m high; Brick PC 400/1000; no frog Sand in bulk bags Laying rate for 2 man team 500 per day;

49.56

385.00

Footing 600 x 250 mm; 3t machine excavation; 215 thick brick wall; 1.95 m high; Brick PC £500/1000 single frog; Mortar 1:3 sand in bulk bags Laying rate for 3 man team 600 per day

53.48

1,054.47

Total

£434.56

£1,107.96

ABOUT SAM HASSALL Sam Hassall is the UK’s only dedicated specialist landscape cost consultant. As the managing director of LandPro Ltd he provides cost and implementation information to landscape design professionals and landscape contractors. Sam also

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

compiles the Spon’s External Works and Landscape Price Book and he developed the market leading LiberRATE Estimating system which is available as a 90-day trial.

Call: 01252 795030 or visit www.landpro.co.uk.

January 2013

21

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Photo by Prof J Hitchmough

With proven success on many complex and prestigious planting projects and over 2000 species grown, Palmstead can make a real difference to your schemes. Visit us online and start benefiting from our award winning quality plants and excellent service.

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22

January 2013

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Business Tips

Architects: friendorfoe?

Clients often seek advice about garden design from their architect, but why do they do this? Architects and garden designers produce the best results when they collaborate, says Andrew Wilson

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

what they do, dealing with the spaces between buildings. Why then are architects so often the first port of call for master minding masterplanning?

So-called distraction I might posture that architects are obsessed with their buildings, want them to be seen without any visual obstruction and are, in general, disinterested in the context in which these buildings sit. If this is the case, and I think it is, why do politicians seek them out for advice in urban planning? When Zaha Hadid was asked by the competition panel for New York’s High Line why there were no trees in her scheme, she pronounced “Trees are something architects put in a plan when they don’t know what to do with the space”. I love her architecture but I do not love that sentiment.

The promotion of the architect as the “senior service” surely promotes the celebration of individual buildings as opposed to the spaces that these buildings leave behind. We, as the users of the spaces between buildings are in the majority; we are the ones who occupy, use and view these spaces most of the time. If we were to turn things round a little and ask that architecture be absorbed into the wider role of landscape design, landscape planning and urban masterplanning do you think we might get a better deal?

I’d like to think so. We would be less likely to be asked to fill a few badly designed and poorly conceived planters with shrubs that will never survive, be involved in the inception of

KARA THOMAS

When I talk business to my students and how they might go about sourcing work in the future, architects are high on my list as suitable targets.

For the garden designer, architects who specialise in domestic work provide a way in to clients who are already aware of design fees and who need a new garden, or reparations to their old garden once the building work is complete.

Most architects make poor garden designers. Their sense of outdoor scale is curiously questionable and most have no apparent understanding of levels. As for plant knowledge it is virtually non-existent and although they will tolerate planting close to their buildings for planning purposes this is often forgotten or dismissed as the build proceeds.

They are happy to design buildings, build them and then move on and in general I’m also happy with that situation.

Things get a little muddy when the client seeks advice about the garden design and will often defer to their architect. Why do they do this? What is more, architects respond with advice and a generous helping of superiority – sometimes advising on the best options for planting. Where does this knowledge come from, regardless of its efficacy? Few are the architects who enter into a genuinely shared design experience with other professionals without any sense of arrogance or superiority.

Stepping out of the garden and into the realm of landscape architecture and urban design, things often go downhill rapidly.

Landscape architects and urban designers are trained to masterplan expansive areas – that is

They are happy to design buildings, build them and then move on schemes rather than at the end, by which time all the money has run out, create more adventurous spaces in which good buildings can be accommodated, and as the Highline in New York and our own Olympic Park in London demonstrate, prove to be a catalyst for economic development and environmental change. It all seems to make sense to me.

Shall we see what our architectural colleagues think?

ABOUT ANDREW WILSON Andrew Wilson is a landscape and garden designer as well as Director of Wilson McWilliam Studio. He is also a Director of the London College of Garden Design, an author and an RHS judge of Show Gardens. www.wmstudio.co.uk

January 2013

23

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Business Tips

Purchasing for productivity For those who didn’t manage to attend the excellent ‘FutureScape’ event in November, you can’t escape that easily! I have summarised my presentation for all to enjoy; these are my views, which will no doubt conflict with others, but that’s what makes us all different.

When considering how to get the best value for your investment, where do you start, who do you listen to, where do you go for advice, and what are your key considerations? These are probably the same for most of us; price, value for money, specification, whole life costs, brand loyalty, dealer relationship, back-up when it all goes wrong, health and safety compliance, operator, manager, client input, longevity of product, residual value. These are all key considerations, but how do you prioritise?

A one trick pony

In a changing marketplace we need to look beyond the traditional way of purchasing and think laterally to improve our productivity by challenging old fashioned and out of date specifications and practices. Our employees and the machines they operate need to be more flexible if we are to keep costs down.

A one trick pony Where possible, look to move away from expensive ‘one trick ponies’. Are there any alternatives? Look to agriculture and the continent for inspiration and innovation. In agriculture, the combine harvester is probably the www.prolandscapermagazine.com

When investing in new products and services, being prepared to adapt and make substantial changes can really improve your output explains Angus Lindsay

most expensive machine a farmer will buy, but is there an alternative? In our industry we have a similar dilemma with the likes of a dedicated 5-gang ride-on cylinder mower or batwing rotary.

We need to look beyond the traditional way of purchasing and think laterally to improve our productivity Smarter working goes a long way to increasing productivity and efficiency, so we shouldn’t be afraid to try something new. Work with suppliers and manufacturers to develop new ideas and techniques in line with client, contract and economic demands. Don’t be afraid to challenge the norm. For instance, why do the tractors we buy have to have big wheels at the back and small wheels at the front? When did you last review your equipment replacement policy to reflect the changing environment?

If 2012 is anything to go by, the effects of climate change are here to stay, along with budget constraints, meaning that new operational approaches are necessary. Speak to your operators as their input is important in your replacement decisions, it is, after all, they who will make or break the machines you buy.

Involve all stakeholders in decision making, train for productivity and consider paying more

A versatile alternative

initially and keep things longer. In the search for increased productivity take care not to compromise safety. Low priced equipment may seem a bargain but consider vibration, noise and general compliance. Safety equipment should be specified standard and not as a cost saving option.

Where possible, always try to use the local supplier; national accounts are all well and good, but the local dealer is still a key part of the process – use them or lose them.

Think ahead It may suit some organisations to deal with a limited number of suppliers but increasingly we are seeing small dealers being taken over by larger organisations. I feel that this is not necessarily the way forward as local dealers have a lot to offer, but do appreciate that our economic climate is pushing towards more economy of scale.

Finally, don’t just specify equipment for today, think ahead and build flexibility and longevity into your purchasing decision; what versatility and flexibility do you get with your existing fleet? Have a look in your shed or depot at the machines with the layer of dust on them and the low hours. How much are they costing you?

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 l994 – 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

January 2013

25

Business Tips

I was thrilled to see every seat taken at the Twitter seminar that I led with Paul Baker at the FutureScape event in November.

I’d hoped there would be a similar level of interest in the landscaping sector as I’d found in sports turf, where groundsmen, greenkeepers, contractors and trade company representatives are busily exploring and enjoying the opportunities that social media offers.

When we’re helping clients with social media strategy, we ask them to start by thinking about the customer journey and the five stages of purchase behaviour. The first stage involves making a potential customer aware of your company, your brand, product or service. If it’s of interest, they may be receptive to finding out more. Once they have digested more detailed information, they may consider buying from you.

Other messages that they seek or receive, such as recommendations or endorsement, can lead them towards your company, and finally, they’re ready to take action and buy from you.

One of the advantages of social media is its accessibility Building relationships Social media is a tool you can use to lead potential customers through this journey. It has also helped create a powerful sixth stage: advocacy, giving loyal customers a platform to praise you and to encourage others to become your customers too.

One aspect of managing a business that often causes concern is business development. Often, our time is so taken up by meeting our customers’ needs on a daily basis, leaving us precious little time to focus on getting new business and anxious about where our next project might come from.

Building relationships sounds easy in principle, but it takes time developing relationships and establishing rapport. We all know we should be out networking more, but factor in family commitments, the pressure of work deadlines and children’s school holidays and it’s easy to see how we can convince ourselves that we simply don’t have the time.

One of the advantages of social media is its accessibility. The rise of the smartphone and the increasing popularity of tablet computers has put business development opportunities at our fingertips, whatever our location or time of day.

26

January 2013

Twitter masterclass Here are five easy ways you can start to use Twitter to develop your business: 1. Define yourself Take a little time to decide how you’re going to define yourself. What are your areas of expertise? What really interests you? What have you got to say, or show, that people will be interested in? Where could you add value to a conversation? Your business strategy should provide the answer to these questions.

2. Dress to impress If Twitter is the meeting room, your profile page is your business suit. Select a clear profile picture of you. Twitter’s about people, after all!

Write a succinct, engaging biog containing as many searchable keywords as you can. It helps to show a little of your personality too. Include your location and a URL (link) to your website or other portal where people can find out more about you. Creating a custom background makes your profile look more professional and can convey important information about you and your business than you’re able to include in your biog. Type ‘free Twitter backgrounds’ into a search engine and you’ll find numerous websites offering this service.

3. Find common ground Trade organisations unite businesses with a common purpose. They’re an outlet for news, information and guidance relevant to your industry and although you may not be able to attend local meetings or regional events, following them is a great place to start your

Twitter journey. (Association of Professional Landscapers – @The_APL, British Association of Landscape Industries – @BALI_News and @BALI_Wales, Horticultural Trades Association – @HTAnews, Turfgrass Growers Association – @TGATurfandWater, Landscape Institute – @talklandscape. As you’re taking the time to read this magazine, it’d be worth following @ProLandscaperJW too!)

4. Observe Social media gives us the opportunity to observe, in real time, what’s happening in the world around us, in our industry, our locality or our areas of interest. Identify active Twitter users and observe their feeds. Note how they construct their tweets, what tone of voice, content, links and images they use and how they engage with others. You’ll find yourself drawn to some users more than others. Ask yourself why this is.

5. Engage Relationships are built through regular interaction, so introduce yourself! If you find a tweet interesting, reply telling the user why. Has someone posted a great picture of a job they’ve just completed? Tell them why you like it. Retweeting is how information is shared on Twitter. It is also a compliment to the original poster of the information.

Once you’ve made your Twitter debut, look me up @groundsmaiden. It’d be great to connect!

ABOUT ELLIE PARRY Ellie is a turf industry marketer and writer. Her company, Forte Marketing & Public Relations, has provided specialist marketing support to a wide range of companies and associations in the sports turf and amenity sectors for more than a decade. She is an avid user of social media, managing the UK Turf Industry group on LinkedIn which has more than 500 members. If Twitter’s your platform of choice, you can follow her turf tweets @groundsmaiden. Ellie helps companies use social media to its full potential, through staff training, the creation of social media strategies and content management. www.fortemarketing.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Capel Manor College PLANNING EARN as you your next step?

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Apprenticeships are a different way of obtaining nationally recognised vocational qualifications, open to anyone 16 and above, who does not have a degree and is employed within the industry. We can help kick start your career with work placements available with leading employers in the land-based sector and success rates consistently above the national average.

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APPLY NOW FOR JANUARY 2013 Ring the apprenticeship team on 08456 122122 ext 1245 or email apprenticeships@capel.ac.uk or for further details visit www.capel.ac.uk/ courses/apprenticeships.html

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growing your potential in the NATURAL WORLD Centres across London in: ENFIELD, GUNNERSBURY PARK and CRYSTAL PALACE PARK

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Let’s Hear it From...

LET’S HEAR IT FROM...

Richard Gardiner

Managing Director of Norris & Gardiner Ltd tells of the family business that ‘does what it says on the tin’, resulting in strong lasting relationships with clients; their new tiered package scheme and taking part in the Three Peaks Extreme Challenge in 2013

How was the company formed?

It was formed by my father Colin Gardiner in 1964 with Cedric Norris. Sheet metal workers by trade, they wanted to get out of the factory, and back then you could fall out of one industry and into another. So that’s how it started.

Where was this?

It was set up in Aldershot. 10 years later, Cedric’s brother, John Norris, joined as part of the management team. Then in 1991, my father bought out the brothers, so there are no Norris’s in the business anymore. In 2004 we became a limited company and that is when Vivienne, my sister, and I became directors. We have been working in the business, Vivienne since 1987 and me, since 1985.

Was the company just doing maintenance work to start with?

Predominantly domestic maintenance, then it went into landscape development. We still call our line of work professional landscape development and maintenance. Most often, we do the maintenance and also develop the site. Because we are now predominantly commercial work, we might maintain a factory site or a business park, and when they develop we do the landscaping to go with the new development.

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Did you get your qualifications before joining the company, or did you do them whilst working?

I joined the company straight from school and I was mainly on the tools, doing the entire ride-on round and other grounds maintenance work too. I decided I wanted to learn what I was doing and by that stage the business had grown so I did a management diploma instead. My technical qualifications are from the University of Life! Although I don’t have a qualification in

We still call our line of work professional landscape development and maintenance

Is the business evenly split between the sectors in terms of turnover?

In terms of the turnover, we are about 55% grounds maintenance, 10% in trees and 30% in landscaping and EGGM, which is grounds maintenance type work but of a one off nature.

About 5% of our work is also in gritting and winter proofing etc. We grit mainly commercial clients’ sites and this is our third winter providing this service.

Is your maintenance work mainly commercial and local authority work?

horticulture my technical knowledge is pretty good and I’ve always attended training events so I’m learning all the time.

Yes. We do a lot of local authority work. We maintain about 30 schools for Hampshire County Council. We do a lot of parish and town council type work and targeted those a little bit more this year because we get such great feedback from them; we get great references from parishes and we have a good reputation with them. We also work for Borough Councils and County Councils, so pretty much every tier. In terms of turnover with local authorities, it equates to about 60%.

How do you structure the business now?

How many people do you employ?

My sister and I are 50/50 co-directors and we have three contract managers; one who specialises in the tree side, one with landscaping knowledge and the other specialises in sports turf.

We are at 35 now.

Are they all permanent staff?

Pretty much. We have got three people on temporary contracts but we are very keen to

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Let’s Hear it From...

keep them. We have just, in the last two or three years following from the redundancies in 2010, started to be a little bit more circumspect with our recruitment, using temporary contracts if we think the peak won’t last.

What sort of radius do you work in?

Our target really is to work within an hour of Woking, which in reality is quite a big area.

Within an hour you can be in central London, on the south coast and quite a way out towards Kent. We do have sites beyond that, on the Kent coast and a little bit further down into the New Forest, which is probably a little bit over the hour.

But our benchmark is working within an hour of our base.

So going forward, are you looking to expand or consolidate?

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We have grown about 20% this year. Our aim is to grow more next year.

By winning more contracts?

Yes. We are being more selective but we are trying harder on the ones that we are pricing.

Local Authority work is very challenging. We really look long and hard at it before we start pricing because it takes a lot of time, effort and resources.

Really, our target market is facilities management companies and property management companies, which is really where we see our opportunities.

Is there more profit in that type of contract?

To be honest, no. What there is, is growth potential. We started with one property management client 10 or 11 years ago, with four sites, and now we have over 60 with them. The reason we are targeting this business is because we want clients with potential. Once they experience our service, we think that they will use us more.

Would you assign one of your contract managers to each of your contracts? How does that work?

We have three contract managers, one who specialises in trees and the other two take the maintenance contracts between them. Essentially yes, each contract has a contract manager to look after it. I choose the best man to manage a specific contract depending on the discipline that it needs, so if it has a sports turf element, then we have got someone perfect for the job. If it has more of a landscaping type element, then we have someone for that too.

Winning contracts, is that your focus?

What is the service then? Is it about quality?

It’s not as easy as it used to be. The reason we grew so much with that particular client was that the residents and the company couldn’t believe that we turned up every fortnight because that is what we said on the contract. We do what we say on the tin. Our real goal is to make ourselves indispensable by arguably giving clients the tools to make their job so much easier.

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Yes. Our sales administrator, Gordon, does a lot of the leg work such as the cold calling or the tracking. He also prepares a lot of the proposals, although I might put some intelligence towards the local authority ones. Essentially, my role is new business but even that I’m finding I’m pushing more and more towards the contract managers because our growth on smaller sites such as business parks means they are quite easy to

1 Bed refurbishment, Fleet, Hampshire.

2 Courtyard, Frimley, Surrey.

3 Dave Norris (Cedric’s Son) who formed our tree section in the early 80’s. esidential grounds maintenance, 4 R Fleet, Hampshire.

5 New woodland path, School in Hampshire.

6 Grounds Maintenance, Redhill, Surrey.

7 Grounds Maintenance, Military HQ. 8 Instillation of carved oak marker posts on the Pilgrims Way, Guildford, Surrey.

9 Turf refurbishment, South London.

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Let’s Hear it From...

tender and price for. We have just introduced a new grounds maintenance service with a tiered approach to make it easier for clients to choose what they want from us.

Is that a set cost then?

Well, it’s not so much that, but what it does is enable us to speculate on a site so we can propose a Bronze, Silver or Gold package at a set price. The Platinum package is bespoke and made to measure.

We give prospective clients three or four choices to make it easy for them to decide what they want and for what price. We go to clients with a solution rather than just asking ‘can we provide something for you?’ We are saying we know the site and we are pretty sure we know what your requirements may be and what it will cost you. It also gives them the ability to apply that across their portfolio. If that is a 10% saving on what they are currently paying, alarm bells start ringing.

You are still pricing jobs to make profit rather than pricing jobs to win work?

Yes absolutely. We can’t afford not to.

It doesn’t always work but we are pricing to make profit.

Who are you up against when you price jobs?

Whether it is an inferiority complex or not, we feel that we are up against everybody.

With some contracts we compete against one man bands, and on others we compete against the big boys. With the Local Authority work we are up against the likes of ISS, Glendale and Gavin Jones.

We think that there is a net gain to the client by people taking pride in their work be proud of our business, and ‘Project Pride’ is our way of breathing life into that statement.

A lot of the big maintenance companies are on the acquisition trail. Have you had people knocking, asking to buy the business?

No, we have never been approached.

Would you consider it?

Viv and I have said what we would like is a business that is saleable and we are fairly confident that if we had a saleable business, we wouldn’t want to sell because we would be enjoying it too much. I honestly can’t imagine an offer would be the kind of figure that allows me to put my feet up in the Bahamas. Long term it is a pension policy so who knows, but it’s not a plan right now.

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So is the business likely to stay on in the family?

I have one daughter and I don’t see her coming into the business straight away but long term, who knows?

What is your turnover?

This year our turnover will be around £1.4 million, up from just under £1.2 million. We introduced something within the team called Project Pride a year ago which is all about having pride in what we do, and the way that we do it. We think that there is a net gain to the client by people taking pride in their work. As a family, we have always been very proud of the business and being part of the industry, and we just translate that into the work place. One of our mission statements is to

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In terms of purchasing equipment and vans, do you lease or buy?

Predominantly lease, but we also use Northgate Rental, which gives us the flexibility if we do lose a contract that we can drop the equipment without a penalty. We also have fixed term leases.

Do you brand everything?

We don’t brand the equipment, but the vehicles are all sign written.

Are you loyal to your suppliers or do you look around for different things?

We are pretty loyal. But you have to also shop around, particularly with vehicles and with larger plant and equipment.

Do you enter awards?

No we don’t. I never felt comfortable with it whilst I was on the board at BALI. But I have now started looking at entering the Green Flag and maybe the BALI awards now I’m not on the board.

What is your commitment to BALI now then?

Although I’m not on the board anymore, I promised I would carry on with the quality standards review. When people join BALI, they are vetted, and we are looking at those standards and processes at the moment. I’m also still on the committee for the South Thames region.

Outside of work, what do you like to do?

I’ve been renovating a house for the last six years so I tend to be doing that if I’m not at work! I do a bit of running now and I like cooking and socialising. The coming year will see me having to get into training for the Three Peaks Extreme challenge, I’ll be one of a great bunch of industry colleagues doing the UK Three Peaks as well as cycling the 450 miles between the peaks too.

Lots of training in 2013!

CONTACT Norris & Gardiner Ltd The Old Builders Yard Limecroft Rd, Woking Surrey, GU21 2TH Tel: 01483 289111 Email: office@norg.co.uk Web: www.norrisandgardiner.co.uk

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Portfolio Winner: Hard Landscaping Construction Cost between ÂŁ300k-ÂŁ1.5m Winner: Restoration and Regeneration Scheme

FORMAL INVITATION Horticon Ltd With the help of lottery funding, Grade 1 Listed Ordsall Hall was restored to its former glory, accompanied by an extensive formal garden, open for all to visit and enjoy

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rdsall Hall is the only Grade I listed building that exists within the City of Salford. The building has medieval origins and is reputed to have links with the Guy Fawkes plot. In 2008 Salford City Council was awarded Heritage Lottery funding to restore and regenerate Ordsall Hall as a visitor attraction.

Urban Vision Partnership Ltd worked closely with the Client and Project Team to develop an extensive redesign that was both sympathetic to the site's heritage and sufficiently robust to meet the demands of a modern day visitor attraction.

CONSIDERED APPROACH Through extensive consultation with the project team, key areas were identified including the underground drainage and street lighting infrastructure, car park extension, events area, formal knot and Dig for Victory gardens, orchard, timeline walkway, service access, and boundary fencing. External artists were commissioned to undertake bespoke elements within the grounds including stone carvings for the timeline walkway and causeway, and oak swans in the moat, which Horticon installed. Horticon Ltd undertook all three phases of the external works, with the majority of the works being undertaken during Phase 3, from Nov 2010 to June 2011.

The first month of the contract was undertaken working alongside the main building contractor, with the external construction works being programmed to naturally progress from

More images at: www.prolandscapermagazine.com

caused by the works on the building structure and fragile internal finishes. Strict guidelines were introduced, implementing 2m exclusion zones around the building for mechanical plant. This new challenge added unforeseen pressure on the programme which was overcome by adopting revised methods of work, re-sequencing operations and adding additional resources.

Ordsall Hall has a great deal of the inherent archaeological value both visible and subterranean, identified in early desktop studies. The installation of drainage servicing the building required Horticon to develop and administer a programme that accommodated an Archaeologist presence on site, undertaking excavations and archiving antiquities uncovered. Collaborative working ensured antiquities uncovered were archived without compromising the delivery of the works to the agreed programme. Additionally, unexpected items of archaeological interest were exposed during the works that required delicate handling in the excavation, storage, cleaning and relocation within the grounds.

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1 Stone carvings for the timeline walkway.

2 Building and surroundings before work started.

3 During construction.

4 The building and the completed formal garden.

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ARTISTIC ADDITIONS The client’s requirement to commission external artists added another level to the overall programming and delivery of the works.

Integration of bespoke features including carved stone seats, inscribed stone paving and

An extensive redesign that was both sympathetic to the site's heritage and sufficiently robust to meet the demands of a modern day visitor attraction 3

the completion of the building restoration.

Expertise and understanding of the complexities of the build was critical to its delivery on the agreed completion date, which was linked to special events and the opening of the hall to the public. Programming was key to the overall success and was achieved through collaborative working between Horticon, the design team and client team, both pre and post contract. This approach was illustrated during the construction stage when the client introduced restrictions on methods of work to reduce the vibration effect 34

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plinths, oak fencing and seating and oak swans each having their own construction detailing were successfully accommodated. Information was provided from multiple sources and required consideration and understanding, with additional liaison with the artists to deliver to the anticipated vision.

The planting scheme was designed and approved at an early stage, due in part to the specialist specification of some of the stock. The partnered approach to the contract allowed early correspondence with

ABOUT HORTICON LTD

Horticon Ltd has traded for over thirty five years and provides all aspects of hard & soft landscaping and associated works throughout the North West, North Midlands and Yorkshire areas.

Our customers include local councils, housing partnerships as well as private businesses.

www.horticon.co.uk

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REFERENCES Horticon and the nursery to source and procure plants twelve months in advance of the delivery date to ensure readiness for planting. Large Taxus baccata cones and columns, Buxus sempevirens spheres and hedges, pleached limes and rare plant stock specified for their heritage value formed part of the wider planting proposals. Horticon embraced the opportunity to work with the client and the local horticultural college to offer work experience opportunities during the planting operations.

Horticon have worked closely with the design team to deliver an organic planting scheme, continuing this approach through the maintenance of the soft landscaping. We continue to work closely with the Hall staff and Garden Organic, the national charity for organic growing, to develop organic management plans for the grounds now and in the future.

Throughout the construction phase all details and construction methods were scrutinised by the Heritage Lottery Fund specialist advisor to ensure high quality finishes and that traditional methods and materials were being employed as required. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Main Contractor Horticon Ltd Moor Lane Nursery, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 6DN Tel: 01565 872 151 Email: info@horticon. co.uk Web: www.horticon.co.uk Designer Urban Vision Partnership Ltd Emerson House, Albert Street, Eccles, M30 0TE Tel: 0161 779 6051 Email: dan.sterry@ urbanvison.org.uk Web: www.urbanvision. org.uk Turf Turfland 330 Southport Road, Scarisbrick, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 5LF Tel: 01704 888333 Email: enquiries@turfland. co.uk Web: www.turfland.co.uk Paving/Stone Hardscape Bolton, Ashworth House, Deakins Business Park,

Egerton, Bolton, BL7 9RP Tel: 0845 260 1748 Email: enq@hardscape. co.uk Web: www.hardscape. co.uk

Oak fencing H Lord & Son Moor Street, Oldham, Lancashire, OL1 3NL Tel: 0161 624 1969 Email: sales@ hlordandson.com Web: www.hlordandson. com Plants J A Jones 99 Bankfield Lane, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 7NT Tel: 01704 228 235 Email: sales@jajones.co.uk Web: www.jajones.co.uk

Gravel driveway Derbyshire Aggregates Arbor Low Works, Long Rake, Youlgrave, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1JS Tel: 01629 636 500 Web: www. derbyshireaggregates.com

Carved stone seats Lambert and Walker The Barn, Kenyons Farm, Gough Lane, Bamber Bridge, Preston, PR5 6AQ Tel: 01772 647 470 Email: enquiries@ lambertwalker.co.uk Web: www. lambertwalker.co.uk Mulch M & B Bark Supplies 90 Moorland Road, Burslem, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 1DY Tel: 01782 812 731 Email: info@playbark.com Web: www.playbark.com Oak swans Land Lab 98 Preston Road, Whittle-le-Woods, Chorley, Lancashire PR6 7HE Tel: 01387 739 744 Email: contact.us@ landlab.org Web: www.landlab.org

Telehandler Terex Telelift 2506 SLI See website for dealers: www.terex.co.uk Excavator (below) Volvo EC55B See website for dealers: www.volvoce.com

Hitachi ZX30 CLR See website for dealers: www.hcme.com

Dumper (below) Terex HD1000 See website for dealers: www.terex.co.uk

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Winner: Domestic Garden Construction - Cost between £30k-£60k 36

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Portfolio

NEW WAVE Water Gems (Alba) Ltd The clients requested the use of natural materials to create a stunning space in which to relax and enjoy the beautiful pond

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n this Fife garden, Water Gems was asked to construct a water feature with timber arbour, two split-level decks, ramps and paving, a cedar walkway, a sunken trampoline, an overhanging deck over the pond, a sedum roof to the arbour, new lawn areas, a wildflower meadow and planted borders. Before construction began, they worked very closely with the designer, Carolyn Grohmann, and the clients in order to ensure that the design worked on both a practical and aesthetic level.

ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS The client brief was for the garden to be built to a high specification using quality, natural and, where possible, local materials. As much waste as possible was to be recycled on site. Local suppliers were used for turf, larch for the arbour, stone for the dry stone wall, soil, and terrestrial and aquatic plants. The client's leftover sandstone setts were incorporated into the design, and other recycled materials used included the EPDM pond liner (composed of part-recycled materials), and reshredded mushroom compost.

Spoil from the pond was disposed of by spreading the subsoil over areas to be seeded with wildflowers and the top soil was used to resolve issues of levels which had been a problem in the garden since the house was built 15 years before.

Tarmac lifted from the driveway and 600mm of hardcore below the tarmac was taken off-site by a local farmer who used it as a base for paths.

ABOUT WATER GEMS (ALBA) LTD Water Gems (Alba) Ltd is an awardwinning landscape, design and water features company producing workmanship and service of an outstanding quality. Their portfolio includes full design and construction projects, natural swimming pools, specialist stonework, rebar sculptures and structures, aquatic and terrestrial planting, and wildflower meadows.

www.watergems.co.uk

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More images at: www.prolandscapermagazine.com

The brief was for the garden to be built to a high specification using quality, natural and, where possible, local materials.

Logistical problems which were encountered included the discovery that the telephone cable which ran underneath the proposed site for the pond had been installed at a depth of only 200mm below the surface. A new route had to be found but without disconnecting the telephone service as the clients work from home and constantly need broadband. Garden lighting was also to be installed.

However, the existing power supplies to the garden (which were numerous) had to be uncovered and then made safe. Water Gems worked with local electrician Gavin Foster to resolve these issues, to reconnect the hot tub and install the new lights.

ON THE EDGE The biggest challenge of the project related to the pond. The first difficulty was finding a suitable edging to create the desired ribbon effect. The initial request from the designer was to use cast metal with a toughened finish. However, the texture and colour were unsatisfactory and so Water Gems came up with an alternative using a perfectly cut sawn-sandstone which delighted both the designer and the client. The second difficulty was achieving and maintaining the correct water level in a pool which combines a formal ribbon-like edging, an overhanging deck and an informal edging with marginal planting. Success was finally achieved with the water held just millimeters below the formal sandstone edging and the marginal plants with their feet safely in water.

Overall, despite the various challenges presented by the site and the design, for Water Gems, this was a tremendously satisfying and enjoyable project. A close relationship with the designer meant there was the necessary flexibility to allow Water Gems to accommodate any unforeseen site issues. The client was both enthusiastic and understanding during the construction phase and, by the time the garden was completed, they were over the moon!

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1 View from the top of the garden, showing the pond's ribbon effect edging.

2 Overhanging deck and seating above the pond.

3 Wildflowers by the bespoke cedar arbour with sedum roof.

4 Laying foundations for the pond.

5 Pond lining and building the dry stone wall.

6 Laying the cedar walkway.

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7 Garden detail.

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REFERENCES Main contractor Water Gems (Alba) Ltd 2a East Craigie Farm Dalmeny Estate Edinburgh EH30 9TQ Tel: 0131 317 8585 Email: nick@watergems. co.uk Web: www.watergems. co.uk

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Designer Carolyn Grohmann Secret Gardens 24 Craiglockhart Crescent Edinburgh EH14 1EY Tel: 0131 443 5818 Email: cgrohmann@ yahoo.co.uk Web: www. secretgardensdesign.co.uk

Electrician Gavin Foster ACR Electrical Systems, 118 Brock Street, Inverkeithing, Fife, Scotland, KY11 1JD Tel: 01383 411 015 Dry stone dyker Jason Hoffman 56 Ambrose Rise, Livingston EH54 6JT Tel: 07880 761 487 Email: mail@ stoneinspired.com Web: www.stoneinspired. com

Grays, Essex RM20 3LU Tel: 01708 867 237 Email: sales@ced.ltd.uk Web: www.ced.ltd.uk

Cedar walkway Silva Timber Products Unit 4 Albright Road Widnes, Cheshire WA8 8FY Tel: 0151 495 3111 Email: enquiries@ silvatimber.co.uk Web: www.silvatimber. co.uk

Pond supplies inc.

Paving/Stone liner/pump etc CED Ltd Gordon Low 728 London Rd Products Ltd

Rookery Road, Wyboston, Beds MK44 3UG Tel: 01480 405 433 Email: info@ gordonlowproducts.co.uk Web: www. gordonlowproducts.co.uk

Plants Binny Plants Binny Estate, Ecclesmachan, West Lothian, EH52 6NL Tel: 01506 858 931 Email: contact@ binnyplants.com Web: www.binnyplants. com

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ART OF GLASS Grace Landscapes A recently restored property in York required a similarly stylish outdoor space, incorporating a contemporary design feel

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esigner Lizzie Tulip was commissioned to create a space which linked the recently renovated property, which includes a two story glass atrium, with the garden. The client also wanted to be able to display contemporary artwork which would look good when viewed from above and for the garden to have strong architectural interest. The solution uses innovative features and finishes, and has drawn inspiration from the clients’ passion for art, architecture and modern design.

THE MAIN OBJECTIVES The first challenge to the installation was the access – entrance to the space was only possible through the neighbouring garden at the rear of the property, by which all the existing features had to be removed and all new materials brought in. There was also existing drainage which needed to be modified and a lightning conductor which had to be lowered.

Once the overgrown planting had been removed (some saved to be replanted), the scale of the project could be realised. The timber decking by the house was removed and the area lowered to extend the existing tiled patio. This included upgrading the in situ slot drainage to an almost invisible fin-drain. Setting precise levels was vital, the top of the newly constructed block planters, which were clad in powder coated metal sheets and topped with hardwood coping, had to be flush with the higher patio of the main area.

The fence to the western boundary raised an interesting problem as the brief required that the 40

January 2013

existing party fence must be retained, making boundary modification a challenge. This was dealt with sympathetically by erecting the new bespoke hardwood timber fence just inside the existing one. This meant that part of the fence was required to be erected on top of a wall, and the rest below the ground foundations..

CLADDING CHALLENGE The raised brick planter clad with slate proved to be the next challenge – how to get a precise radius on not only the planter but the 1200 x 600mm ceramic tiles abutting it, which

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Winner: Domestic Garden Construction - Cost between £60k-£100k

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Portfolio

1 View of the finished garden.

2 The garden needed to complement the glass atrium of the house.

3 Block planter and step detailing.

4 The Iroko timber and glass panel 5B in store with bespoke hardwood door and stainless steel planter above.

The solution uses innovative features and finishes, and has drawn inspiration from the clients’ passion for art, architecture and modern design 2

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were too large to fit in a conventional tile cutter.

A local tile specialist was found who used a pressurised water jet to create a smooth flowing edge to tiles, from a template of the carefully built walls. A further challenge was ensuring that the slate coping matched the slate cladding; Island Stone didn’t stock such a product, and once sourced, it still had to be cut to mirror the curve of the planter.

A bin store was constructed to match the slate clad planter with bespoke hardwood door to the same design as the fence.

To add an air of mystery to the garden, the far area was partially screened with a single pane of frosted glass 2.4m x 1.2m encased in a slatted hardwood frame. This was difficult to not only construct, but to transport and erect in place undamaged as it weighed over 450kg.

Under the now finished porcelain tiling and planters there lies a myriad drainage, a new irrigation system and lighting cables. These were installed to keep the garden in pristine condition and to provide additional light to allow the garden to be viewed from the house and thus make it usable after dark. A simple brick wall closing off the garden again from the neighbours’

1

4

1 P revious tiling.

3

Tiles Reed Harris 27 Carnwath Road, Fulham,London.

SW6 3HR Tel: 0207 736 4511 Email: npw@reed-harris. co.uk Web: www.reedharris. co.uk

Designer Lizzie Tulip Garden Design 31 Wetherby Road York YO23 5BY Tel: 01904 780 292 Email: design@lizzietulip. com Web: www.lizzietulip.com

Slate Island Stone 78 York Road London W1H 1DP Tel: 0800 0839 351 Email: sales@islandstone. co.uk Web: www.islandstone. co.uk

Iroko timber Brooks Bros 1-3 Glebe Road Gillibrands, Skelmersdale Lancs WN8 9VP Tel: 01695 553 700 Email: Nick.bebbington@ brookstimber.co.uk Web: www.brookstimber. com

Marshalls PLC Landscape House Premier Way Lowfields Business Park Elland HX5 9HT Tel: 01924 490 584 Email: customeradvice@ marshalls.co.uk Web: www.marshalls. co.uk

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January 2013

3 Laying the

porcelain tiles. ew fence adjacent to 2N existing party fence. 4 Stainless steel planter.

car port presented a problem as the bricks had to match those existing on site. The brick matching service offered by Boroughbridge Brick and Tile Company proved invaluable as they found a reclaimed source of hand clamped bricks that fitted in perfectly. Underground concrete plinths were installed for others to

REFERENCES Main Contractor Grace Landscapes Nunbrook Farm, 7 Leeds Road, Mirfield, West Yorkshire WF14 0BY Tel: 01924 481 200 Email: info@ gracelandscapes.com Web: www. gracelandscapes.com

2

Brick matching and supply Boroughbridge Brick and Tile Company Blackmere House The Old Station Boroughbridge YO51 9BL Tel: 01423 324 626 Email: info@bbtbrick.com Web: www.bbtbrick.com

Lighting Lighting for Gardens Ltd 7 Dunhams Court, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire SG6 1WB Tel: 01462 486 777 Email: sales@ lightingforgardens.com Web: www. lightingforgardens.com Plants Johnsons of Whixley Whixley, York YO26 8AQ Tel: 01423 330 234 Email: sales@ nurserymen.co.uk Web: www.nurserymen. co.uk

erect the steel pergola and glass sculpture, with the same contractor undertaking the pergola, metal planter cladding and the handrail to the stairwell.

Some carefully selected new trees, shrubs and herbaceous planting were used to bulk up the saved plants to produce a scheme giving all year round interest and colour.

The overall effect of the garden is as an extension of the house, giving a sense of space Cement Mixer within the confines of a town centre terraced Belle Engineering Ltd Sheen, Nr Buxton house that can be enjoyed all year round with Derbyshire SK17 0EU minimum maintenance.

Tel: 01298 84606 Web: www.bellegroup. com

Mini excavator JCB J C Bamford Excavators Limited, Rocester Staffordshire ST14 5JP Tel: 0800 581761 Web: www.jcb.com

Timberwolf TW150DHB chipper Timberwolf Entec House Tomo Industrial Estate Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 5AY Tel: 01449 765 800 Web: www.timberwolf-uk. com

ABOUT GRACE LANDSCAPES Established in 1978, Grace Landscapes works alongside clients, landscape architects, developers, major contractors/retailers, local authorities and schools offering a comprehensive and professional service including construction and maintenance, along with design and build. They specialise in high quality schemes, some of which have achieved national recognition, including four Principal and 10 BALI awards. Employing 150 staff including regional offices at Durham, Warrington and Chesterfield, we are committed to training and professionalism.

www.gracelandscapes.com

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January 2013

43

Plantsman’s Plot

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 rose@pro-landscaper.co.uk The lovely whitebeam Sorbus aria Magnifica comes into its own mid-summer onwards, just when the better known Sorbus aria Lutescens is on the wane. Shiny green above and silver beneath, its leaves provide beautiful contrast and it is well suited to gardens and tougher urban areas alike. Introduced in the early 1920s it is well known but often overlooked for the more obvious spring show of ‘Lutescens’. We regularly recommend both types for a garden to get the best range of foliage throughout the spring to autumn. www.buythetreeyousee.com

Cotoneaster Cornubia comes into its own from autumn through into winter having spent the earlier part of spring and summer putting on sweetly scented small creamy white flowers that attract bees in profusion. Once pollinated, these flowers turn slowly into the most vivid red berries that cover the arching branches of this semi evergreen tree. Placed either mid border or towards the back of a border it will add a good canopy of colour for most parts of any season. www.nicholsons.gb.com

Relatively unknown and most definitely underused in winter gardens is the stunning Camellia sasanqua – the autumn flowering Camellia.

Earlier to flower than the better known Camellia japonica and x williamsii, Camellia sasanqua has the benefit of subtle, spicy, tea-scented flowers which are freely produced from late autumn to early spring. We first had Camellia sasanqua ‘Paradise Venessa’ in last year and they flew out of the door.

Evergreen, glossy leaves act as a perfect foil for the white flowers with a pink edge to the petals and prominent yellow stamens. www.provendernurseries.co.uk

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January 2013

Office workers see little of the weather... scraping frost from car windscreens on a gloomy morning, popping ‘out’ into a shopping centre at lunchtime and then returning home once more in the dark. Perhaps that’s why Chimonanthus praecox isn’t planted more often. The small yellow flowers open during mild spells in January and February and their delightful fragrance fulfils their common name of ‘Winter Sweet’. Hopefully, you may see it silhouetted against a pale blue sky rather than the unremitting grey of 2012. www.dingleydell.co.uk

In the depths of winter, the contrast between dark evergreens and bright stems of deciduous trees can look dramatic. One of the best candidates for this job are the dark smooth leaves of Ilex aquifolium J C van Thol, a self fertile form of the native holly with spectacular crops of red berries.

Set this against the striking white stems of Betula utilis jacquemontii ‘Doorenbos’ or the richly coloured stems of Betula albo sinensis septentrionalis. These plants are all available container grown in a range of sizes from Thornhayes Nursery of Cullompton. www.thornhayes-nursery.co.uk

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January 2013

45

Plantsman’s Plot

The architectural foliage of this evergreen means it has become a staple plant and deservedly so. Mahonia x media ‘Charity’ does deliver with great year round foliage and in winter, just when you need it – bright lemon scented yellow racemes. It’s hardy and tough and flowers for several weeks between December and February, with a little shelter from cold winds the flowers last longer too.

This large shrub is capable of reaching 3m tall, so it’s big enough to look after itself and the spines on the leaves help. www.palmstead.co.uk

There are plenty of shrubs to bring some cheer to the cold winter months. The colourful buds of Skimmia brighten up a shady spot as will the white flowers of Sarcococca which has the bonus of a beautiful scent. Mahonia ‘Winter Sun’ is aptly named for brightening up dull winter days and the bright stems of Cornus alba glow like fire on a sunny day. www.ladybrooknursery.com

Our Camellia sasanqua ‘Yuletide’, which flowered over Christmas, was a big hit and we were told they looked absolutely stunning.

We have over 10 different varieties of Camellia right now. They were grown outside so they are good and hardy and they also all have a fantastic amount of bud. They’re due to bloom between February and April. www.agrumi.co.uk

At this time of year there are a few trees which really stand out in the nursery and one of these is Calocedrus decurrens (Incense Cedar). This beautiful fastigate conifer is native to North America, but grows fabulously well on almost all soils in the UK. Its rich, glossy green foliage, exquisite flaking bark and columnar habit make it an unmistakable tree.

It is perfect grown either as a single specimen, or in an avenue. It can also be a great tree for providing dense, low maintenance, evergreen screening where space is limited. www.deepdale-trees.co.uk

Given a humus-rich, well-drained soil, Cyclamen coum will nonchalantly scatter itself under deciduous shrubs and trees, producing a wonderful silver-splashed, deep-green winter carpet that’s transformed between January and March by a dazzling floral display that shines, neonstyle, through the winter gloom.

Whether carmine-red, pink or white, the diminutive flowers have a magenta blotch at the base of each swept-back petal. Peerless and weatherproof, it’s a deserved recipient of the RHS Award of Garden Merit. www.hortusloci.co.uk

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January 2013

Taxus baccata or English Yew, the classic formal hedge. This plant adds sophistication to any planting scheme and provides a great backdrop to mixed borders as well as making beautiful hedges on its own. This is the perfect time of the year to plant them and Readyhedge can offer them in a range of sizes from 60–80cm high but the most popular is the 180–200cm wire rootball. Planted at two per metre and with a light trim after planting will form a Readyhedge of around 150–175cm tall. www.readyhedgeltd.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Business Decking Tips

Decked out Stuart Burns, director at Dura Composites, looks at the reasons why more and more people are choosing composite over timber when it comes to decking.

Wood decking suppliers and their timber composite cousins love a good debate about the relative merits of their products. Go online and you’ll find convincing arguments to support both sides’ claims that one is better than the other.

But while timber composite still commands less than 10% of the overall decking market, demand is growing at a rate far greater than the top-line statistics suggest.

Two factors are driving this trend – improved quality of product and an emerging willingness from key distributors to offer it alongside timber alternatives.

UK suppliers have made great strides in the quality of their products in recent years, learning much from mistakes made by some of the early American providers of the 1990s.

The result is a range of quality composite options which are being taken seriously by industry big players and professional landscapers alike.

So what is composite decking and why is it proving so popular?

All manufacturers have their own recipe when it comes to the specific mix, but broadly speaking a timber composite is made up of wood fibres and a plastic polymer. Additives stabilise the product and protect it from various threats including moisture and UV light.

How the product performs depends on the types of plastic and additives, the proportion of wood flour to plastic in the mix, how it is mixed and how it is installed. The important

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

thing to remember when choosing your supplier is that the best ones offer warranties of up to 25 years against their products – at least a decade longer than the life-cycle of the average hardwood alternative.

Quality composite decking is further characterised by the fact that it won’t crack, shrink, warp or rot. Its resistance to light degradation is also a big plus point, with the ability to add UV inhibitors at the point of manufacture allowing a product like Dura Deck to retain at least 90% of its original colour after the first 500 hours of exposure, and then remain colour stable throughout its entire life cycle.

A quality timber composite product can be just as green as traditional wood The eco-credentials of composite decking products are also worthy of attention. The best are made from recycled materials and can be recycled themselves – although their long life expectancy means this should rarely be necessary. The point here is that a quality timber composite product can be just as green as traditional wood. For example, we achieved a world first earlier this year when we became the first timber composite supplier to become FSC® 100% certified, guaranteeing the use of FSC® certified forests in our production chain when specified.

So what do the detractors say?

The historic suggestion is that composite doesn’t look as good as timber – a perspective that’s very hard to change when rooted so deeply in personal preference. However, such has been the advancement in composite technology in recent years that polyethylene-based products feature a high percentage of wood and provide a very natural look.

Others claim composite is more expensive than traditional timber decking. This can be true when looking at initial outlay only, but over the life of a deck it is often cheaper to use composite material because it lasts so much longer and doesn’t require any painting or staining.

By far the biggest misconception about composite decking is that it’s hard to install.

Every horror story I’ve ever heard involves a disregard for the manufacturer’s specific installation instructions. That’s why landscapers should always use the warranty-approved fixings and spacings between boards and bearers. Suppliers like us spend years developing the right fixings for their products so it makes no sense not to use them – especially when the sub-surface, barefootfriendly ones like ours prevent the kind of injuries caused by conventional nails.

December January 2013 2012

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Topsoil

Tiptop After an informative FutureScape seminar by Barry Browne, we discuss the pros and cons of the three main types of topsoil that are on sale There are three types of topsoil available on the market; natural, screened and manufactured; each type has distinct advantages and some have significant disadvantages. Contractors and designers need to consider each type carefully to ensure the right soil is being purchased for the correct usage.

Natural topsoil is derived from greenfield / agricultural land usually by a muck-away contractor, it’s inexpensive and usually delivered straight to site by the muck-away contractor. However, there are a number of drawbacks to using natural topsoil, the muck-away contractor can only supply what is available and may have to provide soils taken from unknown or untested sources from multiple locations to meet demand. Plants don’t respond

1

Alongside crops and weeds, it’s possible that more invasive species could find their way into a garden

2

well to being planted in mixed soil. Natural topsoil is often handled and stockpiled in poor conditions which damages the structure of the soil. Because it is agricultural soil it usually has a seed bank which may contain previous crops or weed seeds; alongside crops and weeds it’s possible that more invasive species such as Japanese knotweed could find their way into a garden – with costly repercussions.

Screened topsoil looks fantastic, and is very affordable, but is not a good

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January 2013

enough product for most landscapers’ needs.

Companies recycle skip soil by crushing and breaking down any bits such as concrete, grass and brick and blending it into the soil. This makes it impossible to know what the topsoil contains, and harmful substances such as arsenic and asbestos could be hidden within the soil.

The pH is high which makes it unsuitable for multi-purpose projects and as it has a low organic rating it has low fertility. Screened topsoil is not consistent in availability or quality, and rarely conforms to set standards.

Manufactured topsoil has been created precisely with the needs of landscapers and horticulturists in mind Here is a list of suggested questions that any good supplier will be happy to answer: ● E xactly what is in the topsoil? ●W ill my whole order come from the same source?

●D oes it meet safety standards? ●W hat can it be used for?

What will grow?

3

Manufactured topsoil has been created precisely with the needs of landscapers and horticulturists in mind. It is clean, typically has a neutral pH, is reliable in texture and structure and is highly fertile, natural, and organic so plants will survive and grow well when manufactured topsoil is used. Manufactured topsoil comes from a traceable source, and is manufactured to specification. The soil conforms to British standards and is regularly tested so its quality can be guaranteed. There are also soils available specifically for trees, and lightweight soil ideal for use on roof gardens.

In order to guarantee your topsoil supplier is providing a first-rate product which will adequately meet your and your client’s needs, there are questions that should be asked.

●D oes it meet British Standard BS 3882:2007? ●W hat testing has been done on the soil?

●C an I buy this soil all year round? ●H ow is it delivered, in bags or loose? ●D oes the site have a remediation plan?

This information is based on the seminar The Right Soil for the Right Application by Barry Browne at FutureScape. He spoke on behalf of the company. Green-tech who sell manufactured topsoil. www.green-tech.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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14:35

Paving

Pavinggrace

Chinese granite is cheap, but there are advantages to buying stone from much closer to home, Giles Heap, Director of CED Ltd explains A hundred and more years ago, when most of our city streets were first paved, the stones used were a commodity as concrete is today.

Few paid attention to their colour, it is just good fortune that the end product is attractive.

Initially by sea, the early materials came from coastal quarries, mostly in the British Isles but not exclusively so. Typically granite setts and kerbs would come from Aberdeen, Creetown and Dalbeattie in SW Scotland and also Cornwall. Inland quarries only became a realistic possibility with the advent of canals but more importantly by far, the railway.

In the early to mid twentieth century, cash became king and manmade materials were seen to be a more economical resource. The use of our home grown natural stone became less prevalent, but with the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989 this started to change.

Economical and relatively good quality Chinese granites started to become available to designers and architects (see photo 2). These tended to be silver grey, mid grey or black, with costs as little as a quarter that of Yorkstone or European granites, so they were hungrily bought up.

In time, other more interesting colours became available, (see photo 3) but the cheapest by far tended to be the Silver Grey.

(G603). The G603 comes from huge quarries in Southern China which produce a good quality product, extremely economically, so more and more schemes started to use it and the Silver Grey is still the biggest seller in the UK, which also means that we have an awful lot of very “grey” schemes here in the UK. However, times are changing. Supply costs in China are going up, shipping costs are going up, but more importantly to a lot of contractors, the timescales to produce these materials are often just too long. More and more schemes are being run on such tight 50

2

1

time-scales that waiting three months for some paving from China is not such a good option any more. So the wheel turns and we are starting to look a little closer to home again (see photo 4).

Although European stone is not normally as cheap as Chinese, production times and delivery times mean that materials can be ordered with first deliveries three or four weeks from placing an order. That is a two month saving in time compared to China and when you realise that European options are only two or three times the price of equivalent Chinese granites (instead of a historical four to five times), the time saved often makes up for the extra cost in the material.

But maybe we should look even closer to home? The British Isles still has an amazing range of natural stone to choose from. True, not all of it is technically suitable for a streetscape, but there are more and more useable options becoming readily available all the time (see photo 5).

Slates from Cumbria and Wales, granites from Cornwall and Scotland, Caithness stone, Pennant stone, Purbeck or Portland limestones and a huge range of Yorkstones are all there to be used and that is before even considering any of the multitude of building stones that we have.

The British Geological Survey’s HQ in Keyworth now has a geological path laid exclusively with British stone from every geological era, many of which either already are in production, or could be produced if the demand was there and actually, many are not as expensive as you might think (see photo 6).

Yes, Chinese stone is still cheap..ish, but don’t forget that we have a wealth of potential here in Britain and Europe and not a lot of it is grey!

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Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships: shaping a new landscape for

business growth Careers in landscaping and horticulture can prove engaging and exciting, with opportunities at all levels in a breadth of areas such as landscaping, groundsmanship, grounds maintenance and landscape architecture, in both the private and public sectors.

If the industry is to grow over the next 10 years, several challenges must be overcome. With 60% of the workforce in amenity horticulture aged over 40, and 41% in production horticulture aged over 50, the industry must draw upon a new generation of younger people in order to flourish.

Approximately 85% of horticultural businesses employ fewer than 10 people, so it’s critical that new employees entering the industry are equipped with the skills to support organisations to grow and remain profitable. The industry is seeking people who have the ability to develop further higher-level skills in key areas such as management and communication.

Furthermore, production horticulture is becoming increasingly technologically advanced, so it’s important that people in the industry not only have an understanding of science but are also comfortable working with IT systems.

One way that organisations can attract young people and provide them with valuable skills and experience, whilst simultaneously delivering business benefits, is through an apprenticeship. Lantra’s flexible work-based Horticulture Apprenticeship is designed to fit around employers’ business activities and work commitments, and delivers numerous benefits.

In addition to plugging skills gaps, the Horticulture Apprenticeship framework has been designed with industry to provide learners with the requisite knowledge and experience to support future progression.

Taking on an apprentice can lead to increased productivity, efficiency and employee motivation, and offers a cost-effective way of developing the business. Training apprentices can 52

January 2013

also prove less expensive than hiring skilled staff, leading to reduced training and recruitment costs. Lantra’s Horticulture Apprenticeship framework can support both large employers that already offer apprenticeship programmes and wish to take on additional staff, as well as small to medium sized employers who need to maintain a highly-skilled workforce during times of economic downturn.

According to figures released by the National Apprenticeship Service, a nationwide survey revealed that 76% of employers believe apprenticeships provide higher productivity, whilst 83% rely on their apprenticeship programme to develop the skilled workers that they need for the future. Furthermore, 88% believe that apprenticeships lead to a more motivated and satisfied workforce.

Jo-Anne Bryan, Lantra’s project manager for apprenticeships, said; “Lantra’s Horticulture Apprenticeship provides learners and employers alike with various progression opportunities. It provides on-the-job training so employees can contribute to the business whilst gaining the skills and experience that the employer needs.”

One business that has benefited from taking on apprentices is Hampshire-based garden

design and landscaping company Hambrooks, who employed ten apprentices during summer 2012. It had been an enduring ambition of managing director Norman Hambrook to develop an apprenticeship programme, which he believes is an invaluable tool in training the next generation of landscapers for the company.

The two-year apprenticeship will see learners developing their skills and knowledge whilst also providing the company with an important resource to support existing staff as the company continues to expand. At the end of the two-year period Norman hopes to be in a position to offer all successful candidates full time jobs. He says; “It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop raw talent and bring on a new team that we can home grow in the Hambrooks style, teaching them the value of excellent workmanship and customer care, which is a key part of our company ethos.”

For more information about Lantra’s Horticulture Apprenticeship and how your business can benefit, visit www.lantra.co.uk/standards-andqualifications, call 02476 696 996 or email sales@lantra.co.uk. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Artificial Grass

TOP OF THE GRASS Five manufacturers demonstrate the versatility of artificial grass...

Perfectly Green recently installed 700m2 of their Argyll artificial grass product in Europe’s first Hindu temple. It is located in North London and is popularly known as the ‘Neasden Temple’.

The artificial grass was installed in the courtyard area of the temple.

Perfectly Green were one of many artificial grass companies tendering for the contract and were honoured to become the chosen installer.

WWW.PERFECTLYGREEN.CO.UK

The Synthetic Turf Management team got creative with Tiger Turf and produced a sea carpet full of fish for Severndale Specialist School in Shrewsbury. Synthetic Turf Management, with Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors and Mike Russel Landscaping, planned, designed and delivered a special project to enhance the The Gloucestershire village of Bourton-on-the-Water has made headlines in recent months after the Parish Council installed artificial grass in some areas along the River Windrush. They chose Easigrass for its realistic look and the unique technology which can withstand high footfall without ruining the effect. The product is being trialled on a 30m² area which usually costs the council around £1,000 to re-seed each year. Councillor Richard Johnes said they need to ascertain whether artificial grass will be a “cheaper longer term solution”.

WWW.EASIGRASS.COM

Cardiff International White Water Centre (CIWW) is part of the International Sports Village in Cardiff Bay. The centre offers on-demand white water. Hi-Tech Turf Ltd was asked to turf the island that runs through the middle of the white water with blue turf, and was also asked to incorporate the CIWW logo and website address with white turf.

WWW.HITECHTURF.CO.UK www.prolandscapermagazine.com

life of children who don’t always have the same opportunities to play in mainstream play areas.

Severndale Specialist School caters for pupils aged two and a half years old to the age of 19. All the pupils have either profound, severe or moderate learning difficulties.

WWW.TIGERTURFWORLD.COM WWW.STMWORLD.CO.UK

Who would have thought it?

Robots competing in their own ‘Olympic’ games!

London may be host to the Olympics and Paralympics but Bristol is the place to be if you are a sporty robot.

26 teams from around the world have competed in the FIRA RoboWorld Cup. They took part in a range of games including football, basketball and weightlifting, and Verde Sports Ltd supplied the surface! It is the first time that the event has been hosted in the UK, and organisers say that they had a record number of entries. Let’s hope they didn’t fall over and get any carpet burns!

WWW.VERDESPORTS.COM

January 2013

53

Contact us for more information on our range or to request a trade sample pack.

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No matter how small the job The SE750 Trailer will take the weight of it With the SE750, a potential nightmare becomes nothing as you can now get the right gear to the task in hand.

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ARTIFICIAL GRASS

Just imagine a weed-free, maintenance-free carpet of green outside your home. It is not a pipe dream – it could be much easier to achieve than you think.

Fed up with mowing, watering, weeding and – thanks to our national rainfall rate – mud?

More and more homes and businesses are looking for a viable alternative to their patchy, tired-looking lawns. So, it’s hardly surprising that EverLawn® artificial grass, which is virtually indistinguishable from natural grass without any of its drawbacks, is in ever increasing demand from home-owners, schools and businesses too.

Pictured is EverLawn® Pearl WWW.EVERLAWN.CO.UK

Allow your imagination to run wild & inject some colour into your life with Verde’s new funky range of coloured artificial grasses. Installed around your home, in public areas or for promotional displays, Groovy Grass offers a whole new dimension to luxury and trendy indoor/outdoor living.

Launched at Grand Designs 2012 and available in an eye catching range of vibrant colours, this super soft Groovy Grass ensures a perfect match with your personal lifestyle!

Approaching our 25th year in business, Verde offers an established range of exclusive products, designed and manufactured here in the U.K. WWW.VERDESPORTS.COM

We are pleased to announce our latest product ‘Woodthorpe’ is now in stock. This grass is the most advanced design in the artificial grass market. With wow factor – this grass is created with shaped yarn that improves the pile restoration (i.e. the ability to spring back when walked on).

The pile height is 25mm and has

a realistic look of an English lawn.

Prices are from £8.99 per sqm.

Orders in January and February will receive a 10% discount when quoting Pro Landscaper Magazine.

For more information please call us on 0844 800 9660 or email: info@smart-direct.co.uk WWW.SMART-DIRECT.CO.UK

With its soft slim blade construction and rich green colour, Argyll is an artificial grass that stands out from the rest. Perfectly Green is proud to offer this versatile, hardwearing grass as one of the top selling products of its range. The thatched lower pile adds to the authentic look of the grass. When installed,

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Argyll has the appearance of a newly laid fertilised lawn.This is an artificial turf that has a proven track record of excellent customer feedback, being popular for patios, roof terraces, pool surrounds and decking areas, as well as traditional gardens and play areas.

WWW.PERFECTLYGREEN.CO.UK

January 2013

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Great trade prices on quality LuxR LED lights •

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Path Lighting Tel: 020 8925 8639 www.moonlightdesign.co.uk - info@moonlightdesign.co.uk

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e-mail: sales@lightingforgardens.com Tel 01462 486777

Trade accounts with online ordering, real-time stock availability, discount and next-day delivery

Quality garden lighting for creative lightscaping 56

January 2013

Lighting catalogue with style shots available on request 0208 123 7914 • www.modernlightingsolutions.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Latest Products

LIGHTING Two new compact LED products have been designed by John Cullen Lighting and added to their extensive collection of garden fittings. The Siena is an angled step light ideal to create a wash of light over steps, whilst the Lucca is an uplight. Both use 1w LEDs and are cool to the touch and IP65.

WWW.JOHNCULLENLIGHTING.CO.UK SqillÊ, classically designed with a modern contemporary approach, awakens a garden’s social area long after the sun has departed. The archetypal finishes of Iroko (African Teak) and Western Red Cedar are offered by virtue of their durability, colour, strength and sustainability. The integrated energy efficient LED lighting lasts around 12 hours and is quick and easily recharged in-situ.

WWW.CLAYDESIGNS.CO.UK

Superlight Compact Nano is the latest addition to the well-established floodlight range offering a product with exceptionally small dimensions.

It makes use of the new generation of high efficiency LEDs with a choice of different light distributions. An extremely compact floodlight for direct connection to the mains electricity supply.

WWW.COMMERCIAL-LIGHTING.CO.UK

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

LuxR LED lights designed and manufactured in New Zealand.

These quality LED fittings are unique and offer replaceable LEDs. Made from solid 316 stainless steel, copper and anodized aluminium they have a 10 year body warranty and a five year electronics warranty. Low energy, low maintenance and cool to touch.

WWW.MOONLIGHTDESIGN.CO.UK

The satin chrome Midas spreadlight provides a 4m pool of light next to steps, paths or seating areas.

Midas is constructed in solid copper and brass and finished in a satin chrome finish ideal for modern garden settings, it accepts the CAPLED G4 LED lamp which consumes 3.2 watts and provides a light output similar to a 20 halogen capsule lamp, which may also be fitted.

WWW.LIGHTINGFORGARDENS.COM

Tempt and tantalise by creating pools of light along a pathway to guide your client around the garden. Using the Hunza Twin Border Light in copper, Waterwell washes light down onto the pathway and back into the borders to create this striking effect.

WWW.LANDSCAPEPLUS.COM

January 2013

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Latest Products

WILD FLOWERS designed for impact in the first year after sowing, as well as longevity.

First year colour is from 10% bold cornfield annuals followed by 20% perennials which will begin to flower in the second year.

This mixture is also available as a 100% version with no grasses.

WWW.BOSTONSEEDS.COM

BSX: Dual Purpose Wildflower Mixture: Boston Seeds have experienced a huge demand for their new BSX Dual Purpose mixture due to its ease of establishment and fantastic results. It is a unique wildflower mixture containing 30% native wildflowers and 70% grasses,

Local authorities across the UK have discovered that Top Green Euroflor urban flower mixes are ideal for adding colour to low-maintenance areas including parks, gardens and roadside verges. Euroflor’s urban flower mixtures contain a wonderful colour balance, with species diversity and natural aspect.

The ranges are specifically designed for urban settings and offer a long flowering period from spring to autumn.

Used extensively in Europe for the last twelve years, trials were undertaken throughout the UK, enabling adjustments to be made to the Euroflor formulae to adapt them to the British climate, soils and growing conditions. Euroflor Urban Meadow mixes contain both garden flower cultivars and wild flower species.

WWW.RIGBYTAYLOR.COM

Olympic Meadows: Following the success of the wild flower meadows at the Olympic park, MAS Seeds Ltd has introduced a range of American style annual meadows to their existing wild flower seed range.

It includes the popular species Cosmos (see picture).

MAS Seeds has been

New from Phoenix Amenity Supplies Ltd – longer flowering wildflower mixtures

supplying wild flower seeds, plugs and bulbs for 25 years.

Tim Evans of MAS says that whilst we are an independent company supplying our own mixes we welcome the opportunity to quote businesses for mixes specified by other people.

WWW.MEADOWMANIA.CO.UK

for a high impact, low cost, ecologically advantageous alternative to summer bedding plants. High impact and ecological, the mixtures are based on an extended flowering period – for a long lasting source of pollen and nectar – encourages insects, birds, butterflies and moths. Low cost for local authority use, no weeding is

needed compared to bedding plants – no mowing compared to grass on road verges and traffic islands. Choose from: Purple Glade – Perennials, Golden Summer – Perennials, Golden Summer – Annuals, Contrasting Annuals, Cover – Annuals, Hardy Annuals, Red, White and Blue Jubilee Mix. WWW.PHOENIXAMENITY.CO.UK

ArtificiAl GrAss January 2013

News

BrEAKiNG NEWs: easigrass cotswolds installation New Zealand complete transform bar in fiJi ‘Fantastic’, ‘Incredible’ and ‘Is it real?’ are just some of the phrases being used by the villagers of Bourton-onthe-Water, otherwise known as ‘The Venice Of The Cotswolds’, following the installation of Artificial Grass along the side of the river Windrush.

With the story making its way into international media Easigrass, who completed the installation, have made history as the first Artificial Grass company to install within a communal area in the prestigious

Baka Blues Cafe is one of the most sought after eateries in Pacific Harbour on the island of FIJI. Easigrass New Zealand, who are New Zealand’s leading Artificial Grass supply and installation business, transformed the Baka Blues café in Fiji with the hard wearing and ultra-realistic Easigrass Mayfair product. With

an ever increasing number of customers eating at the Café, the Café owners required a solution that would not only look great all year round but would also be a low maintenance and low cost option for the long term.

easigrass are delighted to announce their 2013 strategic partnership with the Horticultural Trades Association.

Cotswolds area. Richard Johnes, Chairman of Bourton-on-the-Water Parish Council, said the patch had been looking ‘threadbare’ before the work. He said: ‘I think it’s a very good selection for a particularly problematic area’. ‘The feedback we’ve had so far has been very positive. The fact people have been walking past without noticing it is Artificial is excellent and I think it’s blended in remarkably well’.

Make Artificial Grass Your Business Maybe you are looking to expand?

Diversify? Or increase your business portfolio by utilising an already successful company infrastructure with the added value of a brand?

Well Easigrass, the UK’s leading Artificial Grass Company, currently have Franchise opportunities available. An Easigrass Franchise is an opportunity for you to have your very own fast tracked Artificial Grass business with the added value of the most recognised Artificial Grass Brand in the UK. Unlike a low risk and low return approved installer scheme, an Easigrass Franchise allows you to own and operate a successful and profitable business. Not only will you benefit from tried

Contact us today  T : +44 (0)845 094 8880  w : www.easigrass.com

Neil Hopkins from Easigrass Northern Ireland collecting his Franchise 2012 Outstanding Achiever Award from Phil Tremayne of the HTA

and tested marketing strategies, lead generation campaigns and established national corporate relationships, but you will have the back up of a worldwide community of like-minded Franchise holders, all with growth as the key objective.

For more information email franchise@easigrass.com.

Interested in what Easigrass has to offer? Email Matthew Spedding direct to arrange a meeting matt@easigrass.com

UT&AB UT

at The BALI National Landscape Awards 2012 in association with Horticulture Week

1

The annual BALI National Landscape Awards were held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London in early December. Hosted by BBC presenter and newsreader Huw Edwards, 730 guests saw The Grand Award go to Lancashire based BALI contractor P Casey (Land Reclamation) Ltd for the extensive refurbishment of two historic parks in the centre of Lichfield.The BALI 40th Anniversary Commemorative Award for Outstanding British Landscaping Excellence went jointly to BALI contractors Frosts Landscape 3

Construction, Gavin Jones, White Horse Contractors and Willerby Landscapes for their collaboration on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Denise Ewbank delivered a speech about BALI’s chosen charities – the BALI Chalk Fund, which supports education and training in the landscape industry, and Perennial which provides support and advice to those working in the industry, at times of crisis. After the awards presentation, the event was a great opportunity for BALI members and guests to network.

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4

5

6

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1 Andrew Richardson, Johnsons of Whixley with Huw Edwards

2 Martyn Mogford, Gavin Jones Ltd and Jim Wilkinson 3 Janine Pattison MSGD, MBALI with Lisa Wilkinson 4 Andrew Fisher Tomlin, Fisher Tomlin & Bowyer; Tom Hoblyn, Thomas Hoblyn Landscape & Garden Design and John Wyer, Bowles & Wyer

9

5 R ichard and Lynda Barnard of Hillier Landscapes with Lisa Wilkinson 6H uw Edwards 7 Gino Bracco, Natural Paving with Pro Landscaper’s Jamie Wilkinson

8 (l to r) Brian Herbert, Outdoor Options; Richard Gardiner, Norris & Gardiner; Andy Chapman, Fairwater Ltd; David Dodd,The Outdoor Room; Nick Coslett, Palmstead Nurseries; Lisa Wilkinson and Amanda Patton MSGD 9 Mark Gregory, Landform Consultants with Jim Wilkinson 10 Jodie Read, Penarth Management with Paul Cowell, PC Landscapes 10 60

January 2013

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Pro Landscaper looks at what’s different this month THE MAKING OF THE QUEEN ELIZABETH OLYMPIC PARK BY JOHN HOPKINS AND PETER NEAL The story of Britain’s newest and most famous park is told in this detailed new book, where readers can see the progression of the Olympic Park as it was planned, designed and constructed. Starting with the bid to host the Games more than six years ago, the book moves through each stage of the Park’s construction up until the opening ceremony, then through the Games and beyond to the Olympic Legacy and the transformation from an Olympic venue to a sustainable parkland in the heart of the capital.

It does this with honesty and doesn’t shy away from discussing controversial aspects of the Park’s construction.

The book features contributions from experts who helped forge the Park into completion, and provides the only authoritative and true account of how planners and designers built, landscaped, and planted the greenest Games in history. www.wiley.com

Steve Wheen is a guerrilla gardener whose tiny creations are changing the face of urban gardening. This delightful little book features the cream of his creations. Mostly in and around London, Steve creates THE LITTLE BOOK miniature gardens in the OF LITTLE GARDENS potholes, cracks and crevices

BY STEVE WHEEN of the capital’s neglected roads, pavements, and walls. The real joy of the tiny gardens is the feeling of surprise and intrigue that each garden creates, such as a little lush green lawn with washing hanging overhead that has been carefully constructed in the middle of a road. These small creations make passers-by stop to examine the little havens of green that have sprung up in the most unlikely places, causing a smile to appear on their faces. www.thepotholegardener.com

BAYER LAUNCH INTERACTIVE TURF DISEASE MOBILE APP Bayer has launched a free smartphone app ‘Bayer TurfXpert’ which has been specifically developed with turf professionals in mind to help identify turf weeds, diseases and insects whilst in the field. Users can describe particular symptoms, and the app suggests the best form of treatment as well as advising on ideal cultural practices to help prevent outbreaks in the future. The turf manager can also take a photograph of disease symptoms or a weed using the camera on their smartphone and send it directly to Bayer for diagnosis.

Currently available for Apple users, search ‘Bayer TurfXpert’. www.bayercropscience.co.uk

POLARIS MEETS THE BOSS The Boss snow ploughs are designed, built and tested in Iron Mountain, Michigan, where snow, ice and harsh winter conditions are a way of life. Polaris owners in the UK can now benefit from The Boss technology, with a specially engineered plough for Polaris UTVs and ATVs offering a tough, contractor grade solution to make snow removal fast, easy and efficient. Featuring a high performance wear plate the plough comes with optional curb guards and snow catcher, whilst a high performance hydraulics package is standard. The hydraulics are enclosed to protect against corrosion and freezing, with a chainless lifting system to reduce snowplough bounce during transportation.

A revolutionary hitch system makes the plough easy and incredibly fast to attach to a UTV. www.polaris-britain.com

During the winter, working outside can be a rather chilly task.

Winter Touch gardening gloves from Gold Leaf are the answer to your problem; a special WARM, DRY HANDS Thinsulate™ thermal WITH WINTER TOUCH lining, and a second FROM GOLD LEAF Ski-Dri™ waterproof lining ensure your hands stay warm and dry whatever the weather. They are designed specifically with gardeners in mind, and have reinforced palms making them ideal for use with rakes, spades, brushes and a host of other gardening tools. Fashioned from the highest quality deerskin leather, Gold Leaf gloves fit like a second skin, offering incredible dexterity. www.goldleaf-gloves.com

People

LOOK OUT FOR...

STEVEN ELLIS Winner of Young Builder of the Year 2012, and Gold at the WorldSkills UK competition – a young landscape gardener to keep your eye on

How did you get involved in the competitions?

My qualification assessor Carl Gerrard encouraged me to enter both competitions – and I am very glad he did!

My supervisor Glyn Jones has also been very encouraging and was with me each step of the way. He has been such an influence, not only on my working life, and I am grateful he was able to see me winning both competitions.

How did you get into the industry?

I left school in June 2009 and was unable to find either a job or a training position. Eventually I linked in with PM Training and joined their Entry to Employment programme. I joined the PM Homeworks team gaining work experience maintaining gardens for the elderly and vulnerable, I then moved on to my current team and supervisor where we specialise in offering both building and landscaping services.

The majority of our work is bespoke, personalised and is funded in part by the Aspire Group’s charity, the Realise Foundation. Our work is diverse and includes environmental improvement projects at sheltered housing schemes, schools and churches.These projects vary from sensory gardens, bespoke amphitheatres and castles, to soil sculptures!

My granddad was my inspiration, he wanted me to be a landscape gardener and I have fond memories of working with him on his allotment. I have also always wanted a job where I was able to work outside.

What is it you enjoy about landscape gardening?

No two projects are the same – each day is so different which means I am constantly learning and using new skills. As the work is project based I gain www.prolandscapermagazine.com

a huge sense of achievement seeing a project from start to finish. I also enjoy the weather – rain or shine!

Congratulations on winning Young Builder of the Year, and Gold at the WorldSkills UK competition.

What did these competitions entail?

They were both very different. The Young Builder of the Year competition was application based, recognising the success of young people who have overcome personal barriers to achieve qualifications and gain employment in the construction industry. The ceremony was held at the House of Commons and it was very overwhelming to be the national winner.

With the WorldSkills UK competition, I worked with my fellow team member Dave Wilcox. We got through the regional heats to get to the national final, these were similar processes but the final project was much bigger. With each stage we had to complete a garden project by reading through the plans and putting our skills into action; it was timed which made it a very intense and pressured situation.

I can’t believe that I am the national Young Builder of the Year and achieved Gold at WorldSkills UK – 2012 has been an amazing year!

Can you talk us through an average day?

Each day begins at around 8am on-site, we start by reviewing our work on the project from the day before then checking through what materials are needed for the next stage and starting that day’s schedule.

Our team consists of my supervisor Glyn, myself and a number of apprentices and learners from PM Training. More recently I have been given the responsibility of supervising some of the learners and managing parts of the project to the quality expected.

I have been in the shoes of learners, being prepared for the world of work, so am able to relate with them and share my experience on a daily basis.

What are your plans for the future?

I’d like to gain as much experience and as many skills as possible so that I have a long and successful career in landscape gardening.

To find out more about PM Training, please contact 01782 279121 January 2013

63

People

THE

LITTLE INTERVIEW Chris Harrington Harrington Porter Landscapes www.harringtonporter.com In business terms, do you expect 2013 to be better than 2012?

If it rains less then I’d say almost certainly!

A small insight into the world of other professionals from our wide and varied industry. If you’d like to appear in a future issue please email enquiries to lisa.wilkinson@pro-landscaper.co.uk that are similar to us – longevity, type of client, garden size, are still going strong. There’s plenty of work for all of us out there.

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

To design and build a garden EXACTLY how I want it built – irrespective of budget and client opinion!

What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment? iPad. On-site and for client presentations.

Your most inspirational garden?

Ferme de Saladin in Morocco – Luciano Giubbilei.

Name one thing unique about your business.

Our London showroom.

What’s your favourite meal?

Toad in the hole.

What do you think the trends/changes will be in 2013?

Another fencing solution must come soon – all clients love horizontal batons!

Your dream job?

Think I might be in it. If only it paid about 10 times as much.

Do you monitor your competitors’ progress?

It pleases me to see that the companies in the area

Jacquetta Menzies

Jacquetta Menzies Landscape and Garden Design www.jacquettamenzies.co.uk What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment?

6B pencil.

Name one thing unique about your business.

Challenging sites are my stock in trade.

How is sustainability embedded within your business?

At every stage, starting with the design brief and ending with the client’s long term involvement.

How important is social media as a means of communication with clients?

Very important, I use a blog, facebook and newsletters.

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January 2013

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I like rom-coms.

Best book you’ve ever read?

Flora Britannica – Richard Mabey.

Your most inspirational garden?

Little Sparta, the garden of Ian Hamilton Finlay.

Your dream job?

The perfect client with a bottomless purse and a neglected country estate.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I trained to be a model.

First album you ever bought?

The Incredible String Band: The Hangman’s Beautiful Daughter.

If you could be any Superhero – who would it be?

Japanese Knotweed Woman – I could both destroy or infest at will, be afraid.

Justin Paxman Paxman Landscapes UK Ltd www.paxman-landscapes.com What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment?

Blec tractor-mounted stone burier.

Name one thing unique about your business.

Our ability to offer commercial landscaping and ground maintenance services throughout the UK to the highest standard whilst still maintaining a personal touch due to operating as a family run business.

What is the busiest time of year for you?

November though to Christmas, due to the planting season.

How important is social media as a means of communication with clients?

We use Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn almost daily, posting updates on projects we are working on, communicating about the training of staff and contacting potential clients to advertise our services.

Do you monitor your competitors’ progress?

No, but I am aware that they are trying their hardest to find ways of winning work, which may have an effect on the overall quality.

Describe yourself in three words.

Self-actualising, confident, charitable.

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

To build a greater organisation.

Best book you’ve ever read?

Maslow on Management.

Your dream job?

To teach young people about horticulture.

First album you ever bought?

Jackson 5.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

People

Robert Heath

How is sustainability embedded within your business?

We’re currently working towards ISO 14001 and have been heavily involved in completing KPIs for our clients. We have had a resource efficiency audit carried out, outlining some specific targets.

Describe yourself in three words.

Ambitious, calm, approachable.

Name one thing unique about your business.

Our ability to react quickly to clients’ changing demands.

We monitor fuel usage and plan logistics, and also attend regular meetings with NISP (National Industrial Symbiosis Programme) for waste and want meetings.

Your dream job?

To own my own 2,000 acre farm and run my Sports Turf Construction Company from it at the same time.

What do you think the trends/changes will be in 2013?

Less big value jobs £300k + and more smaller value jobs £30-40k.

How do you find new clients?

Through tender websites, consultants, advertising and word of mouth. A good job speaks a thousand words.

Souters Sports Limited www.souterssports.co.uk What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment?

Rake and brush, a good job is always kept tidy.

Mark Dewick

Landmark The Quality Landscape Company www.GardenDesignNottingham.com In business terms, do you expect 2013 to be better than 2012?

Yes, there are signs that confidence is returning to the industry and the recession and difficult weather conditions have weeded out a lot of the competition.

What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment?

The angle grinder/still saw. The amount of paving and concrete we have to cut is phenomenal.

What is the busiest time of year for you?

From the 1st March to middle of June.

What do you think the trends/changes will be in 2013?

Artificial turf may be the thing as prices have fallen and the quality has improved.

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

To wholly own my own company, and drive Route 66 on a Harley.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

That I have arachnophobia.

If you could be any Superhero – who would it be?

The Thing.

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

I have always wanted to do a Hampton Court show garden and present a garden makeover show on TV. Best book you’ve ever read?

As a kid I loved the Secret Seven books.

Your imagination runs riot when you’re that age.

How do you find new clients?

Word of mouth is king but a great website backed up with a great portfolio works for us.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I lived in India when I was three years old.

Describe yourself in three words.

Lover of life.

First album you ever bought?

Billy Joel – Uptown Girl.

DIARY JANUARY 22-24 BTME Harrogate Week: Harrogate International Centre, HG1 5LA www.btme.org.uk 24 Surviving the Recession Seminar by Alan Sargent: Brinsbury College, Pulborough sargent396@btinternet.com

22–25 IPM: Essen, Germany www.ipm.messe-essen. de

FEBRUARY 06–07 Executive Hire Show: Ricoh Arena, Coventry www.executive hireshow.co.uk

19–20 RHS London Plant & Design Show: RHS Horticultural Halls, London www.rhs.org.uk/ShowsEvents MARCH 05–07 Ecobuild: ExCel London www.ecobuild.co.uk

13 APL Awards: Roof Garden, Kensington www.aplawards.co.uk 26-27 RHS Great London Plant Fair: RHS Horticultural Halls, London www.rhs.org.uk

YOUR EVENT If you have a diary event you wish to publicise, email details to the editor: lisa.wilkinson@pro-landscaper.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

January 2013

65

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Do you have a tractor / teleporter? We need you to clear snow as part of our winter maintenance programme.

Ideally Established 1948 and still going strong due to we would likequality you to work toconcern. your base and clear beinglocally our main snow from our clients’ sites. Competitive rates offered dependant on machinary type.

Pond Liners

Contact us at gritting@ground-control.co.uk

Buy from manufacturers and save £££!

Also big savings on pumps and filters!

Why not visit our website!

www.fawcettsliners.co.uk

www.ground-control.co.uk or telephone for a brochure and samples: The Stables, London Road, Billericay,Essex CM12 9HS

Call: 01772 612125 Fax: 01772 615360

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IRRIGATION

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Landscape Irrigation, Sportsturf and Golf Distributor: Arcadia Irrigation � ��� 01252 714986 s���s��r���i�irri�tio���o�u�

LANDMARK

www.prolandscapermagazine.com Timber Products

Metal Estate Tree Guards, electro galvanised & black powder coated. Easily assembled in 3 sections & with ground anchors.

6ft x 2ft £100.00 7ft x 3ft £160.00 All plus VAT & delivery

Tree and Nursery Supplies & all Planting Sundries

Mark Vigrass Ltd 01507 604201 / 07971 190345 www.markvigrass.co.uk 0808 129 3773 www.landmarktimber.co.uk 50 December 2012 www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Classified

0808 129 3773

Fawcetts Liners

LANDMARK Timber Products

Classifi ed www.landmarktimber.co.uk

www.landmarktimber.co.uk

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2/2/10

12:47:01

T: 01282 453900 E: sales@balmersgm.com Visit our new website: www.balmersgm.com John Deere 3036E, Ex Demo, 36hp, 4WD......................................................£14’880 John Deere 3036E / 305 loader, Ex Demo, 36hp, 4WD..................................£17’500 John Deere 3320, 33hp, 2 hrs, 4WD..............................................................£12’000 John Deere 3720, 45hp, 2 hrs, 4WD - choice of 2.........................................£13’000 John Deere 2520 / 200CX loader, 60” RD deck, 26hp, 783 hrs.....................£11’750 John Deere 2720 / 200CX loader, 31hp, 120 hrs...........................................£13’000 John Deere 4115, 24hp, 1927 hrs, roll bar, turf tyres....................................£7’000 John Deere X740 c/w: S/D deck + collector - choice of 3......................from £6’250 John Deere X748 c/w: deck + collector - choice of 12...................................£POA Iseki 330, 30hp, 1213 hrs, c/w: roll bar, turf tyres.........................................£6’500 Iseki TK546, 46hp, 1556 hrs, c/w: cab, turf tyres..........................................£8’495 Kioti DK551C, 54hp, 612 hrs, c/w: cab, turf tyres..........................................£15’500 SNOW CLEARANCE NEEDED ON A NATIONAL BASIS 3250, 40hp, 3873 hrs, c/w: cab, turf tyres.........................................£4’750 50 Kubota December 2012 December 2012 51 Kubota G26 c/w: deck and hi-top collector - choice of 11..............................£POA Do you have a tractor / teleporter? We need you to clear Kubota L3830D, 38hp, 306 hrs, c/w: roll bar, turf tyres.................................£11’000 snow as part of our winter maintenance programme. Ideally Massey Ferguson 1528, fitted Out locally front brush, 430 hrs...............£11’570 we would like you to with work to28hp, your base and clear New Holland TN75s, 72hp, 3353 hrs, c/w: cab, turf tyres..............................£12’500 snow from our clients’ sites.

Competitive rates offered For all your golf, sportsturf and irrigation needs.

Yanmar FE280H, 28hp, 96 hrs, 4WD, c/w: rolllandscape bar, turf tyres........................£9’500 dependant on machinary type.

Yanmar KE160at c/w: Lewis Loader, 16hp, 28 hrs............................................£8’500 Buy online www.lws.uk.com Contact at2011 gritting@ground-control.co.uk John Deere HPX 4X4 us Gator, model - low hrs, choice of 4.....................£7’500 Timberwolf 6” road towed chipper, 35hp, 195 hrs.........................................£9’750 Timberwolf 9” road towed chipper, 75hp - choice of 3..........................from £9’500 All machines (unless otherwise stated) are subject to VAT, come fully serviced and a 90 day warranty Nationwide delivery available.

Visit our website for more machines, photos and information www.ground-control.co.uk Over 500+ quality used commercial ground care machines IN STOCK NOW!!

The Stables, London Road, Billericay,Essex CM12 9HS

Tel 0345 230 9697 www.lws.uk.com Balmers GM,•Trafalgar Street, Burnley, Lancs, BB11 1TQ

www.prolandscapermagazine.com January 2013 67

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