Pro Landscaper July 2013

Concept to Delivery

July 2013

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

LET’S HEAR IT FROM DAVID STEVENS

STONE ON SHOW SLOPE MOWERS

ARUN LANDSCAPES

DUE SOUTH

Transformation of a tired garden with wooden structures and herbaceous planting

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Widest range

Quality assured

Natural stone paving, Hand crafted moulds and reconstituted paving, all products ‘personally’ walling, block paving, edging passed by our experts. and decorative aggregates.

No-one offers more.

Installer support

Expertise

Bradstone Assured, our own We’ve been doing this for installer scheme to help drive 50 years. No-one knows your business forward. landscaping better.

Design ideas

Garden designs from the professionals and practical DIY toolkits.

As seen on TV

It’s not just TV where you will see our name.

We support our brand through press, internet and social media too.

It’s not just the product, it’s what you get on top.

When it comes to garden and driveway products, one name has dominated the landscape for more than fifty years.

Bradstone.

Today, we’re more committed than ever to pushing back the boundaries and providing installers with the most innovative and inspirational products available. Combining the broadest choice with the best quality and approachable expertise with unrivalled experience, to keep Bradstone on top.

To find out more, visit www.bradstone.com or call us on 01335 372222.

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July 2013 | Volume 3, Issue 7

Welcome to July 2013 Welcome to the July issue of Pro Landscaper, we hope that the early summer has been good for you and your business.

As usual, the Pro Landscaper team has been out and about, meeting landscapers, designers, suppliers and architects and we’re pleased to report that there certainly seems to be an up-lift in mood, business is picking up and the majority believe that 2013 will be better than last year, which is great news for the industry.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue, we met up with David Stevens, landscape architect and garden designer, who gave us an insight into some of the many changes in the industry over the five decades he has been involved. Check out Andrew Wilson’s opinion on RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Janine Pattison’s fifth

ALL ENQUIRIES Tel: 01903 234 077 Eljays44 Ltd County House, 3 Shelley Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 1TT Tel: 01903 234 077 EDITORIAL editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk Director – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com Assistant Editor – Rose Hales rose.hales@eljays44.com Equipment Editor – Joe Wilkinson joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com EDITORIAL ADVISORY PANEL Mark Gregory Chairman of APL and Landform Consultants Sam Hassall LandPRO Ltd Russell Eales Lawn care expert Karl Harrison Decking expert

ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com

in the series of articles on sustainability within the landscaping sector and an in-depth costing article about wildflower meadows plus lots more.

We are delighted to announce the seminar programme (see pages 52-53) for this year’s FutureScape event (Tuesday 19 November 2013); the day will be packed full of informative seminars, interesting debates and entertaining sessions. Last year was an amazing day and this year promises to be even better, please go to www.futurescapeevent.com and register.

The Pro Landscaper team will be running its own café at the event and we hope you will drop by and say hello.

Have a great month,

@jimeljays

P.S. Check out page 77 to see how a group of brave industry people are progressing with their training to conquer the Three Peaks Extreme Challenge – all in aid of Perennial, the industry charity.

PRODUCTION Design – Kara Thomas Printed by Pensord Press Ltd, Gwent, UK

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The Association of

Professional Landscapers

Pro Landscaper is proud to be an affiliate member of BALI

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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.

AND THERE’S MORE... www.prolandscapermagazine.com Read everything from up-to-date news to the digital version of the magazine Download the Pro Landscaper App Available FREE from the App Store CONTRACTORS A RCHITECTS Landscape Hub ARCHITECTS GARDENERS LANDSCAPERS ARCHITECTS www.landscapehub.co.uk CONTRACTORS GARDENERS HUB CONTRACTORS ARCHITECTS Visit, join and debate within the LANDSCAPERS DESIGNERS A landscape community Landscape

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

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Contents

July 2013 6 News Shed Round up of industry news

10 Association News The SGD and APL on their RHS show garden successes, and the BALI-NFC Steering Group

The ‘rules’ of good communication apply to all people in the same way Margaret McNeil OPINION

13 View From The Top Phil Jones of ISS Facility Services Landscaping asks what makes a good customer experience

14 Positive Feedback Andrew Wilson shines some light on the RHS show garden judging and feedback processes

16 Right Van Man

BUSINESS TIPS

Angus Lindsay looks at the new focus on LGVs

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20 Wildflower Meadow Costings James Hewetson-Brown calculates a long term cost comparison between seed and turf

22 Communication Margaret McNeil on ensuring misunderstandings are avoided TECHNICAL

24 Sustainable Landscaping Janine Pattison on making a lawn more sustainable

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26 Garden Irrigation Simon Sales offers tips on guaranteeing irrigation success

27 More Than Just Timber Karl Harrison continues his series on high end decking, focusing on making a project unique

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Contents

54 Artificial Grass Companies explain the benefits of partnering with them, plus latest products

62 Stone On Show Examples of natural stone used at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

67 Equipment -75 The latest news,

information of Kioti’s new tractor models, slope mowers, and more…

PEOPLE

77 Three Peaks Extreme Challenge Find out how the team are coping with their demanding training schedule

78 The Little Interview A small insight into the world of five industry professionals

CONTRIBUTORS Phil Jones MD of ISS Facility Services Landscaping Andrew Wilson Garden designer and lecturer

Angus Lindsay Head of Fleet at The Landscape Group James Hewetson-Brown Managing partner of Wildflower Turf Ltd Margaret McNeil Owner of Onsite Training UK

Janine Pattison Garden designer

This is not a race but an endurance test Darren Skidmore on the Three Peaks

29 Let’s Hear It From David Stevens, designer and managing director of David Stevens International

JULY 04 Q Lawns’ Sustainable Landscaping Event www.qlawns.co.uk

33 Due South Arun Landscapes transformed a tired garden into a lush and green space

09-14 RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show www.rhs.org.uk

37 Classic Rock Wildroof Landscapes designed a harmonising garden for a clients’ 300-year-old farmhouse

10 Green Infrastructure: Interdisciplinary Design and Practical Delivery Conference www.landscapeinstitute.co.uk

44 Plantsman’s Plot

18-22 RHS Flower Show Tatton Park www.rhs.org.uk

Plants recommended for July by some of the country’s top nurseries

Q Lawns, growers of amenity turfgrass, Enviromat and Meadowmat

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Karl Harrison Director of Exterior Solutions Ltd

ARE YOU GOING?

PORTFOLIOS

49 Trading With

Simon Sales Director of Landscapeplus

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AUGUST 15-18 Southport Flower Show www.southportflowershow.co.uk

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News

NEWS SHED

Frosts offer garden design service from Woburn Sands Garden Centre

Jubilee Gardens get a summer makeover with a new floral extravaganza The planting of new evergreen shrubs and flowering plants was completed in the South Bank’s Jubilee Gardens in preparation for the first anniversary of the opening of the gardens on May 31 2013.

A spectacular floral extravaganza of new floral species gives the gardens a new summery look and feel.

Over thirty new varieties of shrubs and flower plants have been introduced in time for the summer

season, including: Acanthus, Arkansas blue star, Bear’s Breeches, Helianthemum Golden Queen, Cytisus Praecox, Gladioli, Daylilies, Iris, Paeonias and Alliums.

The original re-landscaping of Jubilee Gardens, along with the latest spring upgrades, was carried out by main contractor Frosts Landscape Construction and Applied Landscape Design Ltd. www.frostslandscapes.co.uk

© Sarah Byrne

Following a recent staff restructure, Frosts Garden Design and Construction has a new department head, Dan Blumson, and garden designer, David West-Beale, who are both based at the Garden Design Studio within the Frosts Garden Centre at Woburn Sands. Dan has a BA Hons degree in Landscape Architecture, and studied horticulture at Capel Manor College. He has previously been involved in projects ranging from a sensory garden in a school to the restoration of a 19th century walled garden. Dan has a keen eye for detail and a passion for exceeding standards in design, construction and customer service.

David has been designing unique and beautiful gardens for more than a decade and has been involved in

horticulture and land management for more than twenty years.

He holds a Diploma in Garden Design awarded by The English Gardening School. David’s portfolio includes a diverse range of projects – from courtyard gardens to country estates. The Design Studio provides garden centre visitors with a drop-in garden design service, in addition to the company’s considerable involvement in design and maintenance of large private estates and domestic projects in London and the South of England.

The Garden Design Studio will provide the design for projects and the landscape construction arm of the company will build them, however, it is also able to provide a stand-alone design service. Dan and David are currently both going through the process to become full SGD members. www.frostsgardencentres.co.uk/ Garden_Design

Garden Planters & Urns Giant Boxes, Troughs & Cylinders available

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

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News

Avondale Park’s innovative new floral lawn

Quadron Services has been working with the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea in a pioneering project to create a floral lawn in Avondale Park.The lawn is the first of its kind in an amenity space and is the brainchild of Lionel Smith, a PhD researcher based at the University of Reading,

whose project and research was launched at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The concept is based on covering an area with a mix of both British and other wild flowers from around the world. Once established, the floral lawn will provide a highly biodiverse sward that is attractive to parks users while also providing a vital habitat for nectar gathering insects such as butterflies and bees. Many thousands

Chris Beardshaw’s head turning garden at Hampton Court Fresh from winning a Gold medal and The People’s Choice Award at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, garden designer Chris Beardshaw is creating a show garden for McCarthy & Stone at RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.

Chris aims to promote the key messages of McCarthy & Stone, which believes that later life should be rich, rewarding and hugely fulfilling. Visitors will be able to walk through the garden and engage with the planting and the audio clips specially captured for the show. As the visitors walk along the pathways they will be able to listen to a

variety of audio clips from retirees sharing their knowledge, experiences, hopes and ambitions for the future.

Commenting on the garden Chris said: “The audio element in the design is important as we wanted visitors to be able to learn from the wisdom of the older population.” www.chrisbeardshaw.com

of carefully selected native and non-native wildflowers have been propagated from plugs and seeds. In May, once the plants were sufficiently mature, Quadron and the Royal Borough staff then laid them in the beautiful mosaic style that forms the stunning lawn.

The area will be cut back on a regular basis to promote flowering which will be colourful from March to November. Once it has settled, visitors will be able to walk on it for a closer look at the flowers and plants used. www.quadronenvironment.com

Ian Drummond named as new Chairman of eFig Ian Drummond, Creative Director of Indoor Garden Design has been announced as eFIG’s new Chairman as Graham Pattison of G4 Consulting stands down. Carole Pluckaard of Koberg BV takes over as Vice Chair.

Ian commented, “I am honoured to be taking over the chairmanship of eFIG. I look forward to working with the committee and my colleagues to promote this wonderful industry and widen the understanding.” www.efig.eu.com

NURSERY NEWS Supporting the industry into the future

There has been much reporting lately in the horticultural press about perceived skills shortages and horticulture not being ‘trendy’ enough to interest the younger bracket.

Although garden design courses seem to still pull in decent figures at colleges and universities – many nurseries are crying out for skilled horticulturists. All I can say is that we seem to buck the trend here at Provender Nurseries. In the last two years alone we have taken on four students of various different academic levels for work experience. Each of our trainees has shown an enthusiasm that has known no bounds – as a result we have taken one student on full-time and the other three on a part-time basis. All started off by knocking on our door and asking for work – you never know what skills are behind that young fresh-faced youth – why not give them a chance as they are the future of our horticultural industry?

www.provendernurseries.co.uk

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

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News

NEWS IN BRIEF Majestic Trees Event in September

Majestic Trees will be holding an event on Thursday 19 September at their tree nursery near St Albans.

See page 48 of this issue for further details.

London Garden Bridge

A pedestrian garden bridge spanning the River Thames from Temple to the Southbank has been designed by the London Olympics cauldron architect, Thomas Heatherwick.

Jo Thompson to speak in Canada

International garden designer and Royal Horticultural Society Gold medal winner Jo Thompson will be a key note speaker at the 32nd CanWest Show, in Vancouver on 18 & 19 September 2013.

New North West BALI Regional Chairman

Matthew Spedding, Easigrass National Account Manager has become the North West Regional Chairman at the British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI).

Noel Farrer to be next president of the Landscape Institute The Landscape Institute has selected Noel Farrer to be its next president.He will take over the two-year elected presidency from Sue Illman on 1 July 2014.

Landscape architect Farrer has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. He has run Farrer Huxley Associates, an award-winning urban and landscape design company, for over 18 years.

All of his work is founded on the belief that landscapes make an

essential contribution to the generation of sociable and sustainable communities.

He will, he says, be working hard to ‘increase the desirability’ of the LI to current and future members and to raise its profile within the wider industry. ‘ My vision is that the output of the LI will be unrivalled in quality and relevance, making it a charity that every member is proud to belong to.’ www.landscapeinstitute.org

Gavin Jones employees ‘put something back into the community’ During June, 250 Gavin Jones employees met at Frank Muir Memorial Field in Thorpe for a team building challenge to construct and install a new footpath through the field.

The former mayor of Runnymede, Cllr Linda Gillham formed a relationship with Gavin Jones throughout the ‘Plan Bee for Runnymede’ campaign where the company helped with their knowledge and experience in this area. As a consequence, Cllr

Good month for...

The Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park – re-opening and shortlisted in the New London Awards and European Garden Awards.

Ian Drummond from Indoor Garden Design who is elected new Chairman of eFig. Apprenticeships – a 26% rise in applications from the agriculture, horticulture and animal-care sector.

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Gillham and Runnymede BC Leisure Services team initiated this project idea.

Will Clark, Managing Director, Gavin Jones Ltd said ‘The footpath project will greatly help access to the park. Gavin Jones met labour and plant costs and the Trust purchased the materials. The Trust and the Borough were extremely helpful in coordinating the project’. www.gavinjones.co.uk

Anyone not booked in to exhibit at FutureScape – stand space is now sold out!

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Melbourne Botanic Garden – 80% of cacti and succulents destroyed by vandalism.

David Austin Roses – bad weather causes redundancy talks with staff.

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

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News Extra

Palmstead seminar

The Palmstead Soft Landscape Workshop has become an annual event in the landscape calendar since it started in 2008; this year’s event is on Wednesday 25 September 2013 at the Ashford International Hotel, Ashford, Kent

Nick Coslett, Marketing and Sales Manager at Palmstead Nurseries came up with the initial concept as a way to engage with customers and offer a platform to air appropriate topics.

Independent experts in their own fields discuss a topic relevant to the planted landscape. Plants and plant use are always central to the day, and underlying that is “right plant, right place”.

This year’s theme is Native or Non-Native.

In part this comes from a comment made by last year’s speaker, landscape architect Eelco Hooftman of Gross Max; who made an aside to the “Ecological Taliban” who impose restrictions on planting designs in favour of purely native plants. This emanates from Biodiversity Action Plans and developers keen to achieve five star status in the league table for sustainable homes and BREEAM points. “I’m all in favour of native plants but their display period can often be short and biased toward the spring,” said Nick, “the woody natives are in my opinion unsuitable for prescriptive planting in urban gardens as they generally grow too large.

It seems under these prescriptions, native plants are good and non-natives are bad – or have to be strenuously justified. Some say planners and

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ecologists have taken control of the planting choice away from the designers. Well designed mixed plantings can offer enhanced display periods, and longer nectar/food reservoirs for wildlife.”

Speaking this year: ● Tony Kirkham, Head of Arboretum at Kew will discuss his choice of trees for future planting with climate change in mind, and also the issue of native provenance and origin, and when it is relevant to use these in planting designs. ● Professor Chris Baines is a lifelong ambassador for bringing wildlife into the planted landscape.He’s also a regular government advisor and is keen to tackle this issue. ● Professor Nigel Dunnett from the University of Sheffield will speak about his Olympic meadows of native and nonnatives and what is happening to them in the legacy phase of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

The event will appeal to professionals involved in the planted landscape – landscape architects, garden designers, green space managers, and landscape contractors. There is also an exhibition alongside the workshop with over 20 selected companies supplying to the landscape market.

Discussions are also underway to include other wildlife experts and a representative from BREEAM. Nick Coslett also hopes to be able to give guidance to delegates on what to plant for fostering our dwindling moths and other wildlife.

Registration can be completed online via www.palmstead.co.uk, click on the workshop icon. It’s simple to register and pay, it only costs £22.50. If organisations want to be invoiced they can email workshop@palmstead.co.uk with details. Delegates will receive more information closer to the day.

Registration starts at 8.45 with presentations starting at 9.30. After the workshop, there will be tours of the tree fields and production areas at the nursery which is only five minutes away from the Ashford International Hotel where Palmstead’s production experts will be on hand to help delegates. Transport back to Ashford and the train station is also provided.

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Association Association News

NEWS

BALI briefing BALI-NCF Pooling Experience

severe financial pressures on local Following the partnership government, the threat of our public agreement last year that brought spaces falling derelict or being lost together BALI and the National forever is real; contractors faced Contractors Forum (NCF), the with dwindling budgets must share BALI-NCF Steering Group their knowledge and experience. has identified key issues on BALI-NCF will use its which members representation on the newly will focus in the convened Parks Alliance coming months. to ensure that parks are First, one properly funded, including of the main investment in training, and aims of the that the benefits they deliver Forum will be to John O’Conner are widely communicated. contribute to the (GM) Ltd Secondly, at the next Open higher level discussions Forum for BALI-NCF, which on park and green space issues, will take place at SALTEX on particularly from the perspective Wednesday 4 September following of grounds maintenance and the BALI National AGM, the Safe landscape contractors working for Use of Pesticides Regulations and local authority clients. With the

ISS at Home Park Windsor

the Landfill Directive (biodegradable waste) will be covered by expert speakers who will explain the facts and the implications for contractors.

A subsequent Open Forum will take place at FutureScape on Tuesday 19 November when the topics of Groundwater Protection Zones, the Digital Tachograph Regulations and Hand-Arm Vibration will be covered.

And finally, a seminar on Specification and Pre-Qualification Questionnaires is planned for spring 2014, details to follow.

BALI-NCF is a group of larger grounds maintenance and landscape contractors who have come together to use their influence for the benefit of the wider industry.

Whilst the majority of Forum members are also BALI Registered members, you don’t have to be a member of BALI to be part of the Forum. If you would like to contribute to influencing the future of the grounds maintenance and estate management sector, contact BALI-NCF Chairman, Bob Ivison, by emailing bob@ivisonconsulting. co.uk. If you are a BALI member and are interested in joining the Forum but would like to speak to a Forum member, contact either of the BALI Board directors with responsibility for BALI-NCF – Clive Ivil of Quadron Services or Matt O’Conner of John O’Conner (Grounds Maintenance) Ltd by emailing ncf@bali.org.uk.

APL update APL to showcase at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park It’s a busy month for APL members involved with RHS shows including RHS Hampton Court Palace and RHS Flower Show Tatton Park.

These events are a perfect platform for APL to showcase the breathtakingly beautiful and creative gardens they have completed.

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Sponsored by Bradstone, this year’s garden at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park which takes place later this month (25-28 July) is designed

by Paul Hervey-Brookes and built by a collaboration of the founder members of the APL North West Cluster Group – Andy Kirman of

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Kirman Design, Steve Foxcroft and Simon Ford of Foxcroft Landscapes, Stephen Hargreaves of Seasonal Landscapes and Mick Topp of

Vision Landscapes.

Entitled Precious Resources, the garden uses modern materials to create a contemporary urban oasis

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Association News

SGD bulletin Show time for SGD members

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With the arrival of summer, SGD members have been out in force exhibiting at garden shows up and down the country, and securing prestigious accolades and prizes along way.

Congratulations to James Basson MSGD who took the award for Best Fresh Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show alongside a Gold medal for his After the Fire garden (pictured), which showed the beauty

that puts how we use water at its heart. The striking design uses a wealth of plants that are both decorative and have culinary uses; combined with beautifully cast paving it creates the perfect outdoor living space.

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that exists in burnt-out landscapes and nature’s incredible ability to regenerate after fire. Other Chelsea Gold medals went to Robert Myers MSGD for his simple geometric garden for Brewin Dolphin, MarieLouise Aguis MSGD for the East Village Garden inspired by the 2012 Olympic Park, and to pre-registered member Ruth Willmott for The Nine Billion Conversation Garden.

Andrew Wilson FSGD and

The build team are no strangers to winning RHS medals. Andy Kirman landed his first ‘job’ designing a show garden. The fruit of his labour was an RHS Gold medal and Kirman Design have gone on since to win various medals for their creative work.

Vision Landscapes, run by Mick Topp are also award winning, having won Silver at Tatton last year for their construction of the Urban Escapism garden. Foxcroft Landscapes have also had the privilege to have constructed award winning gardens at both RHS Chelsea and RHS Tatton Park flower

Gavin McWilliam’s simple and elegant garden for Cloudy Bay in the Fresh Gardens category (pictured) received a Silver-Gilt medal as did gardens designed by Jamie Dunston and Darren Hawkes, while Jo Thompson received a Silver medal.

Further afield, Lizzie Tulip MSGD whose garden of textures and forms aptly named The Rough with the Smooth (pictured) received the Premier Gold medal at the Harrogate Spring Flower Show and Victoria Wade was awarded a Gold medal at the RHS Flower Show in Cardiff.

Finally, pre-registered member Christine Wilkie was named Garden Designer of the Year 2013 at the recent Grand Designs Live show for her small city garden Glow described as a garden to warm the soul.

If you are visiting the Hampton Court or Tatton Park flower shows this month, look out for gardens

by Dan Bowyer MSGD and Louise Hamilton-Holland MSGD among many others.

There is still time to get entries in for the ‘Student’ and ‘Designing for Community Space’ categories in the

shows.They are experienced in design and construction, from small urban spaces, to rooftop gardens and retirement villages.

Stephen Hargreaves of Seasonal Landscapes has experience which includes maintaining the Belgravia and Mayfair estates for the Duke of Westminster and designing and building a scheme for a garden in Eaton Square, he completes the line up for the garden team aiming for Gold.

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SGD Awards. Discounted entry fees apply until 8 July and entries need to be submitted before 12 August 2013. www.sgdawards.org.uk 1 The Rough with the Smooth

by Lizzie Tulip MSGD. 2 After The Fire by James Basson MSGD. 3 The Cloudy Bay Discovery Garden by Andrew Wilson FSGD and Gavin McWilliam.

APL Chairman Mark Gregory said: “We are delighted to be building a garden with Paul Hervey-Brookes and Bradstone at Tatton Park this year, and the APL garden will show that having a professional, landscaped garden need not cost you the earth.”

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1 APL Bradstone Precious Resources perspective drawing.

2 Mick Topp, Andy Kirman, Paul Hervey-Brookes, Steve Foxcroft.

3 Mark Gregory.

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Opinion

View from the Top What is a good customer experience really about, and how do we ensure we’re achieving it, asks Phil Jones

What kind of experience do we offer our customers? The experience we want them to have, or the experience that fits with their organisation’s aspirations and goals? To make that judgement, we should ask ourselves what customer experience actually is. Not many companies used to think about the experience they provided for their clients. It was natural to focus on simply delivering the service or product for the price being paid. In general, many years ago, it was sufficient for a potential customer to have a choice of supplier and to expect that organisation to ‘deliver the goods’.

It is my belief that today, customer experience is the sum of all the experiences a customer has with a supplier of goods and/or services, over the duration of their relationship with that supplier – including awareness, discovery, attraction, interaction, purchase, use, cultivation and advocacy. It can also be used to mean an individual experience over one transaction; the distinction is usually clear in context.

I recently listened to a senior facility manager within a large well-known global organisation describe the process he goes through in the initial stages of engaging a supply chain partner. The emphasis for him is very much on the partner element. He likened this selection process to a personal relationship, where the market consultation was like speed dating, the pre-tender interaction was like the first and subsequent ‘dates’ and (to cut a long courtship short!) the eventual selection of a partner (the award of the contract) was the marriage. We all know of course that this is only the beginning of things; it is then that the two parties begin to get to know each other! www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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If we agree with these definitions and acknowledge the importance of the customer’s experience, we need to test the level of satisfaction. What is the best way of doing this? Well, in ISS we send regular surveys to each customer, the results of which tell us to what extent a particular customer is a promoter of ours.

Customer experience is the sum of all the experiences a customer has with a supplier

to move. Certainly at local level, indeed at all levels, it is, or should be, standard good contract management to follow these disciplines.

One further element of best practice, as well as understanding what our customer’s strategy is, should be to share that of our own business. This means that both organisations can then move along the same strategic lines. This is all about collaboration, which is far removed from a two way relationship; the dynamics of collaboration provide for a combined approach.

So, it is not really about focusing on the end result that makes the difference to the customer experience. It is by paying attention to all aspects of a true partnership, operating with a customer focused environment throughout all levels of our organisations, that the end result will be a great customer experience.

In other words, a great customer experience is when all those involved in providing and/or receiving a service will feel good about it.

ABOUT PHIL JONES Of course, we recognise that this is nowhere near enough and is only a very small part of the process. We must engage in a multi-pronged approach if we are to really gauge the level of customer satisfaction. To achieve this we must constantly engage at local level, have regular contact at senior operational level, and frequent dialogue at senior strategic level.

From the various stages of this process we stand to gain knowledge of how our customer views us, and also (and extremely importantly) how their organisation is changing and along which strategic lines it is moving or intending

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

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Opinion

Positive feedback Andrew Wilson, an RHS Chelsea Flower Show judge, comments on the importance of feedback to provide clarity for the designers, and the controversial Best in Show award

Judging at Chelsea is a very interesting process.

Assessment allows a small group of judges to consider the gardens in detail, producing a report which is then delivered for judging debate and discussion, in turn leading to the medal. After the award is announced comes the feedback, and the opportunity to discuss the judges’ findings with exhibitors.

If an exhibitor has achieved Gold there is little to discuss, although Sarah Eberle famously asked for feedback when she received her first Gold medal so that she could better understand how it had come about. At Silver-Gilt most exhibitors want to know why not Gold, and so it cascades down the system.The main issue here is one of clarity – why exactly were points conferred or taken away? The art of good feedback, I believe, is to be concise but also to open a dialogue. Good exhibitors are able to analyse for themselves how a garden has performed and how a specific medal has been achieved.

By allowing exhibitors time to speak, one is also encouraging an airing of grievance, an honesty of delivery that needs to be heard. I use this technique with my students, allowing them to analyse openly, but I must in turn listen – really listen – in order to address their concerns.

Feedback hit the papers at Chelsea this year as it gave Christopher Bradley-Hole the opportunity to criticise the RHS.The main issue here was not the Gold medal that had been awarded for his Telegraph Garden, but the award of Best in Show.

That award was given to Flemings for their billabong garden designed by Phillip Johnson.The sense that Christopher was disappointed not to win the Best in Show award was palpable, but his argument was directed at the title itself and what it might mean.

Most people assume that it means the best garden in the whole show when in fact it simply 14

July 2013

Andrew Wilson 2.indd 14

Trailfinders Australian Garden presented by Flemings, designed by Phillip Johnson

The art of good feedback, I believe, is to be concise but also to open a dialogue

The Daily Telegraph Garden designed by Christopher Bradley-Hole

refers to the best garden in the category of Show Gardens.There is a best in Fresh and in Artisan too. Christopher’s point is that best means exactly that; in winning the award the garden is seen to be better than all other show gardens.The title has always been used and in the past Christopher has been a recipient but perhaps it is time to take the sting out of this a little.

For me there were two contenders for Best in Show this year – The Telegraph and Flemings – each represented two very different forms of garden expression. A decision had to be made and judges went unanimously with Flemings.That is not to say that The Telegraph Garden was not a great garden – it was for me profound and beguiling – but, I still support the judges’ decision.

Regarding the ‘best’ as a concept however, we enter a realm of subjectivity. In show garden assessment there is a clear process of acquiring points through criteria on which we are asked to focus. The delivery of feedback is based upon this process and any adjustments made during judging. This is a head decision.

The Best in Show vote is currently a heart decision, a feeling or gut reaction to the garden most favoured. Is this fair? Perhaps if the RHS is to persist with Best in Show we need a clear way of calculating it. If alternatively, as Christopher suggests, we rename the award the Judges’ Award, this takes away the sense of best in favour of preference. It may also take away the hyperbole that surrounds this award each year and, in the process, calm the ambitions of those designers who assume that they might win the award – a growing trend recorded in feedback in recent years and a very dangerous assumption to make.

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

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 13:40

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18/06/2013 08:59

Opinion

Right van man I recently attended a conference organised by the Freight Transport Association aimed at operators of light goods vehicles (LGVs) – a group into which, it is safe to assume, the majority of those reading this article will belong.

Of the several presentations making up the day, two delivered by VOSA’s enforcement team raised questions as to the future of this type of vehicle operations in the UK and the pressure coming from Europe to fall in line with their operations. A few points to consider: ● LGVs outnumber HGVs on Britain’s roads by seven to one. ● At the moment LGVs are subject to a lower burden of regulation; no operator licencing, no tachographs; in fact most drivers don’t even need to keep a record of their hours under domestic rules. ● The haulage industry’s perception of LGVs is of lower standards of operation and poor driver behaviour, hence the badge “white van man”. ● LGVs currently attract a lower burden of enforcement action from VOSA being subjected to only 8 per cent of roadside checks and 34 per cent of weigh checks despite having a significantly higher prohibition rate.

As a result of these issues, VOSA is now turning its attention to LGVs and their operation in an effort to educate operators and avoid any EU derived future legislation introduction by the government, similar to that used for heavy goods vehicle operations. As part of this programme, VOSA will target 20 major towns and cities across the UK where they will randomly inspect vehicles up to 3.5t at roadside check points. At these check points VOSA officers will be looking at general vehicle condition, evidence of daily checks, driver licencing in relation to the vehicle being operated and general good practice. If they feel the vehicle is not being operated correctly they may decide to visit the depot where the vehicle is based and further inspect paperwork 16

July 2013

Angus Lindsay.indd 16

The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) are turning their attention to LGVs, Angus Lindsay looks at what the programme will entail

and procedures. It’s worth remembering that VOSA has the power to impound any vehicle(s) which they feel are unroadworthy or not being operated in accordance with the Highway Code.

Getting stopped at a VOSA checkpoint is an occupational hazard especially if you run a significant number of LGVs across a large area, so all the more reason to ensure your drivers know what they are doing and your vehicles are operated safely and professionally. I’m sure we all get fired up when we see a transit tipper loaded to the

LGVs outnumber HGVs on Britain’s roads by seven to one gunnels and wonder if they ever get stopped – or the pick-up struggling to tow a heavy excavator on an unsuitable trailer and wonder if once they get up to speed, will they be able to stop safely!

VOSA’s primary aim is road safety, so by enforcing legislation and general good practice amongst operators this should come naturally.

Unfortunately a stagnant economic climate can lead to cutting corners and bending rules to make ends meet, but at what cost?

If LGVs come under such scrutiny that the government is forced to adopt European-wide legislation, it could see: ● Tachographs in all commercial vehicles over 2.8t (this is now law in Germany where it is strictly enforced). ● LGVs coming under the scope of operator licencing (as they now do when used as part of an existing HGV fleet for hire and reward operations). ● Trailers becoming subject to annual MOTs (though this does seem unlikely). ● One final point to consider – in France and Germany the driver of a light goods vehicle who cannot prove they have carried out their daily checks can face an on the spot fine of €100 by the enforcing authorities!

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

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 13:48

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18/06/2013 09:01 12/02/2013 16:31

Business Tips

Wildflower meadows

Seed vs turf: a long term cost comparison There’s no doubt that the initial cost of purchasing wildflower seed is far cheaper than purchasing ready-made wildflower turf. But are those initial cost savings really worth it in the long term? Is the end result of a lush, colourful wildflower meadow the same three years down the line? Or does the extra work (and man hours) required for planting and regular maintenance actually cost more over time and mean a high percentage of seeded meadows end up failing?

SEED The initial cost is lower, but the time between seeding and achieving a meadow is long and requires a great deal of work. Seeding is also less reliable, therefore the risk of failure is high

turf

V

The initial cost of turf is higher than for seeding but with wildflower turf you are guaranteed an instant meadow with no mix guesswork, or the need for time intensive and costly maintenance

Leaving the initial cost aside for the moment, let’s look at what is involved in creating a wildflower meadow from seed vs ready-made wildflower turf...

preparation

1

That old farming adage – “One year’s seeding makes seven years’ weeding” is very apt when considering sowing a wildflower meadow.

The soil will inevitably be full of weed seeds that will establish at the same time as the seed is sown. Therefore, you need to create as many false seed beds as possible and keep spraying these off before sowing the wildflower seed. Otherwise, whether you are laying turf or planting seed, general preparation is similar. The area will need spraying off first before creating a good tilth to allow the roots to establish.

However, when the area is to be seeded, greater attention (and time) needs to be paid to raking and stone removal to give a better finish, since this will be on view to the client for the time it takes the seed to establish into mature plants.

2

installation

Getting the seed rate right is a vital element of establishing a wildflower meadow, but it can be very difficult. Seed rates need to be down to 2-4g/m² (a lawn is 35g/m²) so there is very little room for error. If the rate is exceeded, species development, and ultimately biodiversity, is severely compromised. Ready-made wildflower turf already has the correct rate for a meadow to thrive, so once laid, it’s good to go.

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July 2013

Wildflowers Costings.indd 18

3

Establishment

Care needs to be taken to get the correct balance of seeds in the mix.

When seeding, the aim is to establish the area quickly for aesthetic and soil stability reasons. To achieve this you need competitive plants, but these species can take over very easily. However, if you leave competitive species out of the mix altogether or include too few in order to encourage less competitive flowers, weed seeds in the prepared soil can quickly take over too. Achieving the right balance is not easy.

Competition from weeds in the soil or too high a seed rate will impact on the diversity of species and the aesthetics of the area. This results in an area that is visually disappointing and requires a lot of management for several years before the area can be used for the purpose it was created – to be an attractive and tranquil biodiverse meadow which is beneficial to a large range of animals, bees and butterflies.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 13:27

Business Tips

4

MANAGEMENT AND AFTERCARE

After seeding, the recommended management technique is to mow the area every three or four weeks for up to three years and remove the cuttings. In addition any pernicious or prevalent weeds should be pulled or spot sprayed at regular intervals throughout the growing season. Once wildflower turf is laid the resulting meadow should only need to be cut down once in the autumn and the arisings removed. Some sites require a spring cut too. Weeding is rarely required due to the weed blanket effect of the turf.

5

CASE STUDY

Bovis Lend Lease oversaw the landscaping of the Athletes Village and turfed areas at the London 2012 Olympic Games. For architect Darren Pilbeam, this project brought home the significant benefits of using ready-made wildflower turf over wildflower seeds.

Wildflower turf was specified in the areas that needed to look instantly lush and mature on installation but, to save costs, on some of the areas where an immediate effect was not as important, wildflower seed was used. This was found to be a false economy.

Pilbeam said: “Despite being seeded twice, we were still only seeing around 10 flowers in every 30m² area, so we had to make the decision

to replace these failed seeded areas with wildflower turf.”

The table below highlights the main cost differences between the preparation, installation and maintenance of wildflower turf vs wildflower seed over a three year period.

Year 1 costs are naturally higher for wildflower turf, but taking into account the intense maintenance required in subsequent years, the cost of creating a wildflower meadow from seed vs using ready-made wildflower turf is 40 per cent higher at the end of the three years. Plus, anecdotally, 50 per cent of all wildflower meadows sown with seeds generally fail in Year 1, 70 per cent by Year 2, and 90 per cent by Year 3.

Action

Wildflower Turf

Preparation

Spray x 1

20p/m2

Spray x 4

80p/m2

Preparation

Rotovate etc.

£4/m

Rotovate etc.

£1.50/m2

Installation

Lay the turf

£8.50/m2 £1.00/m2

Seed, sow, rake, roll

£1.00/m2 £0.50/m2

Maintenance

1 cut and remove

80p/m2

6 cuts and remove

£4.80/m2

Maintenance

Spray for weed control

0p/m2

Spray x 2

£1.00/m2

Year 1

Cost

£13.50/m2

Cost

£9.60/m2

50% fail

Year 2

Cost

80p/m2

Cost

£5.80/m2

70% fail

Year 3

Cost

80p/m

Cost

£5.80/m

90% fail

£15.10/m2

3 YEAR TOTAL COST

£21.20/m2

3 YEAR TOTAL COST

Wildflower Seed

2

2

2

ABOUT JAMES HEWETSON-BROWN Wildflower Turf Ltd was founded in 2003 by James Hewetson-Brown. With 20 years expertise in the lawn turf market, he wanted to find a solution to the problems faced when growing a meadow from seed. He went on to create the UK’s first, soil-less growing system for wildflowers and grasses to meet the demand for

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Wildflowers Costings.indd 19

superior quality, ready-made wildflower meadows without the establishment problems associated with traditional seeding methods. Over the past 10 years, Wildflower Turf Ltd has continued to fine tune its seed mixes and techniques to produce a unique and high quality product for a number of uses from landscapes to green roofs. www.wildflowerturf.co.uk

July 2013

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18/06/2013 09:06

Business Tips

Communication It is important to communicate clearly to avoid costly misunderstandings, says Margaret McNeil, of OnSite Training UK

At work we have to communicate with a variety of people, all requiring a slightly different approach:

● Our team ● Our managers ● Customers

● Suppliers ● Industry bodies ● The public

Generally speaking, the ‘rules’ of good communication apply to them all in the same way. Communication at work is usually about getting people to do something or telling them how to do something. It is important that you, the supervisor, communicate effectively to avoid misunderstandings that can be costly.

Good foundations ● If you have arranged to meet with someone, be on time and be prepared – have the full information to hand. ● Start with a positive attitude. Try to forget about past conflicts and don’t ‘second guess’ the response. If you think the information will be taken badly, you will deliver it incorrectly. If you are delivering bad news, deliver the facts, do not get emotional or angry and try to have some positive things to say too. So: “this is the situation... it’s not good, but what can we do about it? How can we make things better?”

about new starts with your firm and new people to the industry? Just as important, don’t use long complicated words to try and impress – it will just hinder understanding and make you look pompous. ● Speak slowly and clearly. ● If you have a strong accent, be aware ● Do you speak in a lively, interesting way? If that some words you say might be difficult you speak all at one tone, you will not for others to understand. This is not engage your audience for long. Practice using ‘regionalism’ – it’s fact. more intonation or emphasis on some of your words. Additionally, if you speak too ● Take care with jargon – most of your team will softly, people won’t hear properly and the know what you are talking about, but what On a personal note: as a giver of information you must improve your skills, both verbal and written:

ABOUT MARGARET MCNEIL Margaret McNeil is from OnSite Training UK. Whilst lecturing at a horticultural college, she spotted an opportunity to offer flexible learning to horticulturalists and started OnSite Training UK with Roger Clarke. Since then over 1,000 landscapers have qualified through them. Their Lamport Gardening Academy launched on 2 February 2013. www.onsitetraininguk.co.uk

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July 2013

Onsite training 2.indd 22

● Listen carefully to responses to ensure that the recipient has understood. If they have an objection, work out exactly what they are objecting to – it will probably be one small part of the job, not the whole of it. Repeat their objection as you see it, to ensure you understand what they mean and to show that you are listening. ● Be open to what is being replied – it might be a good idea! ● Never promise anything that you may not be able to deliver – it will undermine your position and you will have difficulty getting people to trust you again. ● Stick to the point – remember the purpose of the meeting and don’t get side-tracked.

instructions may be misunderstood. ● Do you really understand the message you are delivering? If you don’t grasp the meaning or you have a lack of knowledge you must research more before passing it on. ● In written communication, even emails, you are expected to make sense to the reader.

A colleague might excuse poor spelling and grammar, but take care when writing to clients – have someone read through what you are sending just in case.

In short, it’s worth taking an extra bit of time to make sure that you have got your message across. Check that everyone understands at each step before proceeding to the next. If someone has got the wrong end of the stick, you were the one that handed it to them!

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

20/06/2013 08:46

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18/06/2013 09:09

Technical

Sustainable lawns

Modern lawns are a post Second World War phenomenon with most of the changes happening in the 1960s fuelled by the baby boom: large-scale development, economic growth, increased personal wealth and developments in technology regarding equipment, fertilisers and pest control. A good quality lawn has become a status symbol for domestic and public gardens as well as corporate headquarters and other establishments.The creation and maintenance of these high quality areas has become a booming industry in its own right with a strict seasonal timetable of mowing, fertilising, pest control, irrigation, top dressing, spraying and other activities.

During the 1960s there was also a huge push for the development of new varieties of grasses for lawns.This development has continued to this day with new varieties and hybrids being bred all the time to be more compact, finer-textured, denser growing and more resistant to pests and diseases to meet the demand for a uniform, dark green lawn.

The question we need to ask ourselves is, how sustainable is this relentless pursuit of a ‘perfect’ lawn? The huge amount of resources that need to be committed to a lawn to achieve this standard are difficult to justify when one factors in the time and the resources of water, chemicals, fertilisers, and fossil fuels that are consumed. It may be that we need to be working to change the public’s perception of what a lawn should look like. Not every lawn needs to be a perfect weed-free monoculture of a single species of fine grass. Granted, in 24

Janine.indd 24

July 2013

Janine Pattison offers guidelines, including species selection and maintenance

certain areas this may be a requisite but we should consider how sustainable this is and whether there are other areas where a more appropriate ‘lower input’ mix of grass species would be acceptable.

Sustainable lawns need to be created around site-suitable species which have the ability to persist over time, to manage with low or zero inputs of additional water and fertiliser, be able to survive periods of drought and excess water, as well as resist insect and disease problems. Lower rates of growth will reduce mowing frequency as well as reduce the amount of green waste created each time.Time spent selecting the seed mix for a particular project will be well spent.

The primary maintenance of lawns revolves around mowing; strategies to reduce mowing will have benefits for the sustainability of the areas.

The primary way to reduce mowing is to reduce the vigour of the grass; reduce the amount of irrigation it receives and it will grow more slowly.

The same applies to reducing the amount of nitrogen-rich fertiliser that is applied in the growing season.

The mowing height that is used will also have an impact on sustainability. Where possible increase the height of the blades.This will reduce the number of cuts required annually and will reduce stress on the grass making it more tolerant of drought and better able to resist pests and diseases.The continual removal of clippings will create sizable amounts of waste and make the application of fertiliser necessary.

Consider a mulching mower where the clippings are chopped finely and then returned to the lawn to breakdown naturally.This may not be an option for the high profile areas but could be ideal for less significant parts of the site.

Lawns are a major consumer of resources: requiring regular applications of water, herbicide and fertiliser to remain attractive as well as needing labour and fossil fuels to mow them.

To increase the sustainability of these areas we need to reconsider how they are managed and I hope the above points are useful food for thought.

ABOUT JANINE PATTISON

Janine Pattison MSGD is a multi award-winning garden designer and horticulturalist who trained with English Heritage at Eltham Palace in London and at Kingston Maurward College in Dorchester.

A registered member of the Society of Garden Designers, the British Association of Landscape Industries and the Garden Media Guild, Janine is also a highly qualified RHS horticulturalist. www.janinepattison.com www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 10:15

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20/06/2013 11:38

Technical

Garden irrigation Putting design and taste to one side, good gardens start with good horticulture and good horticulture begins with a very simple recipe: use well-chosen, healthy plants in properly prepared soil and apply water as required and you’ll have a successful garden. It sounds simple doesn’t it?

Well just remember that all three ingredients are essential to achieve success.

There are numerous reasons why gardens benefit from regular watering; you’ll see better establishment of new plants, increased growth in the first year and thereafter, reduced plant losses and, because your gardens will be thriving, you’ll have happier customers, more referrals and better images for your website.

So, don’t think of irrigation as an added expense, think of it as an insurance policy for your customers’ investment in plants and trees.

So, what do you need to know?

Simon Sales of Landscapeplus on guaranteeing success

What do you want to water?

Gardens and budgets vary enormously and it’s your job to ensure your customers get the best value for money by balancing the available budget between design, construction and planting. For your watering, initially focus your budget on two things: establishing the most expensive plants e.g. trees, hedges and shrubs, and looking after the most vulnerable plants e.g. containers and window boxes.Then, if there is more money available, you can upgrade to a system that waters the lawns but don’t forget, for an underground system you’ll need a tank and pump.

Micro and mini sprinklers Adjustable, convenient and quick to install, plus you can adjust the application rates to ensure plants get just what they need.

Water supply Most irrigation systems run from mains water which when used responsibly, is a cheap and renewable resource. Boreholes and harvested rainwater can also be used but grey water (bathwater) should be avoided unless it is properly treated for pathogens.

Maintenance Lastly, don’t forget that gardens are dynamic and your irrigation system needs to evolve as the plants develop so make sure you set the system up in the spring, drain it down in the autumn and if you can, find the time to make minor adjustments to the run-time during the summer.

Controls For a simple, tap-based system, there are two good reasons why you should always use an Irrigation Control Pack (timer and filter) to manage your irrigation system: ● An irrigation timer is essential because it allows you to apply just the right amount of water, where and when it is required, no more, no less, and it can be applied over night when evaporation is at its lowest. ● Fitting a wall-mounted filter gives you a fixed point to connect the hose to and screens the water to ensure dirt and limescale are not washed through the system.

So in conclusion, if the budget is limited then irrigate the plants that matter most, and in bigger gardens perhaps consider several tap-based systems running locally from standpipes. Don’t be tempted to think, “it always rains in the UK, we won’t need an irrigation system”, it’s a false economy and your customer won’t thank you when you have to replant.

Applying the water Adjustable drippers Used to water pots, containers and window boxes but also to water key plants and trees especially if you need to know exactly how many litres per day/week are being applied.

26

July 2013

July Landscapeplus.indd 26

In-line drip pipe Not to be confused with Leakypipe or Soakerhose, in-line drip, when used as a network pegged to the soil surface, is a very reliable and efficient method for accurately applying water. To be effective, finish with a generous covering of mulch to minimise evaporation, encourage lateral movement of the water and to improve the aesthetics.

Landscapeplus hosts a series of FREE to attend, Skills Workshops throughout the year at which you can develop the practical skills to design and install lighting, irrigation and pond products in your gardens. For more information call 01666 577577 or email help@landscapeplus.com.

Unit 1 Kemble Business Park, Crudwell, Nr Malmesbury, Wiltshire SN16 9SH Tel: 01666 577577 Web: www.landscapeplus.com Email: help@landscapeplus.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 13:11

Technical

More than just timber Your fence, cladding, decking, or pergola is a living breathing part of your design.

For high-end, move away from merely using the standards off the shelf, there are far more timbers to choose from and so many techniques to use, Karl Harrison explains

Changing the colour, scrape, bleach or sandblast are just some of the methods you could consider to make your timber stand out as a unique and special feature of your project. Some of these techniques will enhance the longevity and also durability, although I would advise taking them on purely for vanity’s sake.

Be different, set the bar By considering the many techniques one can apply to timber, the simple and perhaps overlooked can bring an edge to the design, wow the client and change the whole dynamic of the finish. The surface texture or grain of your timber and how you can change it is such a diverse and exciting proposition to any designer. Techniques include: • Brushed • Bleached timber • Polished • Reclaimed and • Sandblasted refurbished timber • Burnt • Scraped Your choice of timber Don’t simply choose the ‘best timber’; in fact, what even is the best timber? As we are now considering an artisan approach to the finish of the timber you can use pretty much anything available, the art is being able to select exactly what is required. Quite often your material gets delivered to site and when you come to use it there are problems: it’s bent, twisted or warped. How about you get yourself to the supplier and select exactly what you want. You can then choose the timber, quarter cut for straight grain or flat sawn for that decorative and immediate impact. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Karl Harrison.indd 27

Beautiful structure Is it? So your timber is expensive and it’s part of an elaborate design or maybe there is a lot of it?

No, it’s different because you’ve thought well about how to enhance the grain or texture.

Think: have I designed something achievable? Do I have to steam the laminations into a mould and when it’s dry use a steel brush, get a sweat on for hours? The reward will soon be the grain, look at it jump out. Finally soak it with quality timber oil.

For a fence or a panel consider burnt timber – scraped and devoid of that crusty burnt carbon texture – instead presenting a well scraped and polished smooth finish, tactile at every angle and looking like the ripples on a sandy beach with the tide out.

Sandblasting is perfect for your reclaimed timber, scaffold planks are wide, strong and a great length. Remove the steel strips from each end, ignore the years of grime and site dirt. Get them sandblasted and soaked in Textrol. This is probably one of the most beautiful finishes out there.

Hide your fixings Either hide them or enhance them, I don’t want to see cheap screws no matter how straight, or how perfectly they have been fixed. Secret fix,

rebated and plugged; reverse fixed to completely hide the fixing; or perhaps better than that use oversize screws or fixings, perhaps a huge old oak style dowel – without dressing it of course and leave it sticking out. It needs to be different and work with the design you are working to.

Let’s design then As far as design goes, as contractors we have to do as we are told. If we can push the information out there we can add these attractive and exciting finishes to our timber and evoke a new dimension to what has been a simple standard for so many projects. So let’s get caustic, start scrubbing and get the oil flowing – let your work stand out.

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

July 2013 27

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18/06/2013 18/06/2013 08:56 08:54

Let’s Hear it From...

LET’S HEAR IT FROM...

David Stevens

Author of 22 books, and winner of a staggering 11 Chelsea Gold medals, David Stevens of David Stevens International talks about his history at Chelsea, his media career, his international work and how the industry has changed since the start of his career in the sixties How did you start in horticulture?

When I left school in 1962 no one talked about gardening, it just wasn’t known about. I started out in the city of London working as a marine underwriter, had a short spell in the police force, followed by a commission to join the marines, which I didn’t take up. I also worked for a firm selling gold leaf and stamping foils as a technical rep which taught me how to talk to people.

My squash partner was a landscape gardener, I was able to join his business and my career in the industry was launched! Once interested

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in horticulture, I read a book by John Brookes called ‘Room Outside’ and wrote asking him if he needed an assistant. Luckily he said yes so I joined him at Syon Park as a landscape designer.

I then studied landscape architecture at Thames Polytechnic, got my qualifications, and went into a private practice in the early seventies. I was lucky, I did well.

Homes & Gardens magazine was my first big customer; we ran a garden planning service for them which cost £3.25 per garden, which was actually quite good money then! I could design 10 small gardens a day. Readers would fill in a form in the magazine, send us all the info – likes and dislikes etc. You would get a big parcel sent and inside would be four or five bits of string which were the measurements of the garden. It was a lot of work, but it was a laugh.

And your last?

When did you do your first Chelsea garden?

That’s not too difficult. I’ve always been good with plants and I have got a good memory. I have

In 1972; we won the Banksian Silver-Gilt medal.

The last one was with Terence Conran about six years ago and was for the Imperial War Museum to commemorate 60 years since the end of the Second World War. The garden won a Bronze medal.

Did you get leads through the show to go elsewhere?

We did. The first one was an organisation called Chelsea America, which set up flower shows in the States to emulate what Chelsea was doing over here. I had won a Gold medal that year and was asked to help. One thing lead to another and now I’ve worked on every continent except Antarctica!

How do you get to know what plants work where?

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19/06/2013 10:44

Let’s Hear it From... a knack for remembering plant names. I’ve also been doing it for a while now – I’m 70 this year! I’ve got a partner in Japan, a partner in South Africa and a partner in America, who are all plants and nursery people. That obviously makes it much easier.

about anything at all to put them at ease. A lot of it is psychology and homing in on what they want, how they are and what they like – all of those things. Usually, once I have left, I’m 99 per cent sure of the kind of garden that they want.

How have you seen design change over the years?

How do you work out your fees?

It has changed a lot. One of the points I’d make is that Chelsea has become quite samey. It has become a lot of steel and glass, very clean surfaces and the gardens tend to look a bit the same. You kind of go through phases. In the eighties and nineties people went quite romantic – lots of lush planting and not too much hard landscaping.

In the seventies there was lots of hard landscaping. All sorts of trends are followed. The fun of it is being able to design anything.

Have you managed to do that?

By hourly or daily rate. I don’t charge percentages and I honestly don’t get involved in contracting. Twenty years ago I ran a big design and build company called Individual Gardens, and all I was becoming was an office manager.

So we made the decision to shut that down and I started David Stevens International which is much more fun and more profitable.

What do you do about choosing the contractor?

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I always recommend contractors. After a while you tend to know who are good.

I think I’ve managed it. I don’t do typecast.

How do you select the ones you recommend, through the quality of their work?

It’s difficult to make money in garden design alone, you need to try and cast the net wider Do you have a signature style or type of plant you use?

Not really. People choose me because I’ve written 22 books now and they read them and like the kind of philosophy that goes on behind it. Gardens are for people and as the designer I am purely a facilitator to get clients from point A to point B by taking all their ideas and coming up with a scheme.

How do you get to that point?

It’s almost selling, in a very positive way. The first thing on nearing the house is to take in the locality – upland, downland, town etc., the style of the area – suburban, modern, is it by the sea, even the colour of the house. All of these things will have an effect on the design. Colours tell you a lot about a client. Bright colours quite often mean zingy people. Cool pastel colours usually mean more laid back reserved people. That is who they are and they will want a garden to embrace their philosophy. A lot of people are very adept at planning the rooms inside the house but they panic when they move outside. Firstly, I sit down with clients and chat

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Yes and because I have known most of them for a long time. They are usually a BALI or APL member. There are also some really good local firms about. You get to know them and trust that they will look after the clients.

How often do you go and visit one of your gardens during the building process?

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During the build it is entirely up to the client. If you have a good contractor, you shouldn’t have to be there too often.

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Do you let the landscapers do the planting?

It depends on the scheme. With the more detailed planting schemes, I’ll usually lay out with the landscaper.

Who did you learn from?

John Brookes taught me design. My first good contractor, Jack Sexton, was the best landscaper I’ve ever known. He still works now and he’s in his eighties!

He built all of my Gold medal Chelsea gardens and Best in Show gardens. He always advised me to listen to my contractor, too many young designers take a course and come out and think they know everything, but you can’t.

You never stop learning about plants and it’s the same with materials and the way you use them.

What do you think about the design courses available?

I still think that landscape architecture is the best training you can get. Having said that, if you want to be a garden designer, the architecture course doesn’t

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Let’s Hear it From... teach you everything about plants and gardens but it’s an in-depth study where you will learn a huge amount about environment, how to look at the landscape and how that allows you to look at gardens in a different way.

They pay air fares etc. and I just charge them the time it takes, take the photos, chat to them and come back to start on the design. The Japanese love English gardens, I did a beautiful English rose garden in Japan for the Japanese Rose Society.

I was on the garden selection panel, and then a gardens judge for three or four years. Then the assessors came in. Originally it was just council members, who knew little about garden design and cared even less, but design started to almost force its way in. The RHS had to start taking notice of garden design because it brought people into the show, they wanted to see built gardens. People, through television largely, were becoming aware of garden design in particular. Chelsea has come a long way and is still the greatest flower show on earth.

When are you going to slow down?

So Chelsea gave you your platform?

I already have (a bit); I can now pick and choose my work. Back when we were doing well I started a private pension, which I would advise all garden designers to do.

Chelsea does that. It gives you exposure and so have the TV and books I’ve done. It’s difficult to make money in garden design alone, you need to try and cast the net wider.

So did the big money come when you got into TV?

What about the writing David, have you got 7 ideas for more books?

That’s what happened for me. I did Gardens By Design which was the first TV garden design series on the BBC in 1989.

Oh yes, I have always got ideas for more books.

How do you charge when working with international clients?

I have always got ideas for new books 1

How did that all come about?

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I did radio to start with, my first broadcast was in 1981, and then I did a lot for Gardeners’ World with Geoff Hamilton who was a real pal of mine.

That is where I met Adam Frost. Geoff sent Adam on my garden design course which was quite a compliment because he never trusted designers, always thinking we spent too much money – he thought the job could be done with a sheet of glass and a couple of bamboo canes! He was a smashing bloke. We had run-ins in the press, I would say that gardens on the BBC had become bland and he would moan about designers spending too much money, but it was all done tongue in cheek.

In terms of designers now, who stands out for you?

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I think Adam Frost is going to be one of the stars of the future because he understands how gardens work from when he was a top class contractor and that makes a heck of a difference.

He designs gardens that can be built elegantly and with good materials. Cleve West is a first class designer who stands out and Dan Pearson was always going to be a good plantsman.

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Have you ever been involved in the judging process at Chelsea?

Are you close to having any published?

I have one at the moment which is about suburban gardens.

What do you do outside of work?

We have a home in France which we bought in 2007, we like to spend as much time as we can there, and we are also renovating a house in the UK too, so I’m kept very busy.

1 A private garden in Essex where the client wanted simplicity and beauty.

2 A contemporary front garden in Cape Town.

3 Artemesia and Dahlia stand out in sharp relief against the red rock.

4 David’s 1990 Chelsea garden, which won a Gold medal and his third Best in Show.

5 Acrylic water pyramid planted with 35,000 tulips.

6 The proposed Lady Diana Garden which was to have been built at the Royal National Rose Society’s garden.

CONTACT David Stevens International Well House, 60, Well Street, Buckingham, MK18 1EN Tel: +44 (0)7860 716 699 Email: gardens@david-stevens.co.uk Web: www.david-stevens.co.uk

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19/06/2013 10:48

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18/06/2013 09:54

Portfolio

DUE SOUTH Arun Landscapes The clients’ existing garden was tired, lacking in both practical and aesthetic interest – Arun Landscapes transformed the space using wooden structures, and scented, colourful planting

Commended: Overall Design and Build

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Portfolio

More images at: www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Project details Cost: up to £60k Size of project: approx. 40m x 20m including house Timeline of development: three months

T

he clients were doing some major renovations to their home and wanted to upgrade their garden to suit the changes. We worked with the architects throughout the design process and build.

Whilst most of the existing planting was up for grabs, the clients were keen to keep an area of perennials and the vegetable garden as is, so the design had to incorporate this.The existing garden was pretty tired – with old conifers and lawn, and a very open feel with no surprises. An old brick seating area had no shade and was open to the neighbour’s garden.The views were great once you looked beyond the existing garden.

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CONSIDERATIONS ● To create a summer garden that blends into the countryside at the bottom of the garden. ● Provide a level lawn area big enough for a game of badminton. ● Use materials suited to the house and reclaim materials from existing garden where possible.

● Provide a shaded seating area – the garden faces south and gets hot. ● Make use of the whole garden. At present there is nothing at the bottom of the garden to go to. ● Planting should suit a dry and sunny south-facing sloped garden. ● Retain some areas of the planting and keep the vegetable garden. ● Design a beautiful shed that suits its situation. ● Design a log store that is easily accessible from the house. ● Provide support for climbing roses.

THE PLAN Reusing the existing brick paving and Sussex saddlebacks near the house suited the character of the property.

The tall oak pergola gave much needed shade and the added detail of the chamfered posts and beam ends also suited the property. The pergola was designed to frame the views over the garden www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 10:57

PortfolioPortfolio

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and countryside and to support our clients’ love of climbing roses. We used reclaimed Yorkstone here as it was felt the cost was acceptable given the importance of the area.

For the other paved areas we used irregular Yorkstone which will age and suit perfectly at a much reduced cost.

The shed was designed to sit within view of the pergola so we used oak with cedar shingle roofing. The chunky sawn posts also link visually to the pergola whilst the wany edged cladding will age to a lovely silver. A bench here also gives great views down the length of the garden.

A seating area at the bottom of the garden provides the reason that the clients needed to walk down there. It is surrounded by scented colourful planting and grasses that catch the evening light.

All the plants have been chosen to suit the existing conditions in order to reduce watering and maintenance. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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1 Secluded seating area.

7 Brick path detail.

2 Pergola during construction.

8 Bespoke oak workshop.

3 Soft planting of grasses and poppies.

9 Soft planting under pergola.

4 Reclaimed Yorkstone paving.

10 View across main lawn to workshop.

5 Steps to dining terrace.

11 Workshop under construction.

6 Herbaceous border.

12 The completed garden.

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19/06/2013 10:58

Portfolio REFERENCES Design and build arun landscapes 267 Dairy Cottage, Northstoke, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LS Tel: 01798 831 045 Email: info@arunlandscapes.co.uk Web: www.arunlandscapes.co.uk Oak and reclaimed clay pavers Round Wood of Mayfield Newick Lane, Mayfield, East Sussex, TN20 6RG Tel: 01435 860 888 Email: neil@gardenbuilders.co.uk Web: www.roundwood.com Reclaimed York flags Woodlands Farm Nursery & Reclamation The Green, Wood St. Village, Wood Street, Surrey, GU3 3DU Tel: 01483 235 536 Aggregates Travis Perkins Station approach, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1AQ Tel: 01798 873 811 Web: www.travisperkins.co.uk

Lawn Sovereign Turf via Town & Country Turf Ltd Howards Nursery, Handcross Road, Lower Beeding, Horsham West Sussex RH13 6NX Tel: 01403 892634 Email: sales@tcturf.com Web: www.tcturf.com Plants Evergreen Exterior Services Ltd 21 Croydon Lane, Banstead, Surrey SM7 3BW Tel: 0208 770 9200 Email: info@evergreenext.co.uk Web: www.evergreenext.co.uk Bespoke shed and log store arun landscapes 267 Dairy Cottage, Northstoke, Arundel, West Sussex BN18 9LS Tel: 01798 831 045 Email: info@arunlandscapes.co.uk Web: www.arunlandscapes.co.uk

DESIGN PLAN Oak shed and log store Small brick edged irregular yorkstone seating area with bench/garden views Magnolia grandiflora helps to screen the neighbouring farmyard Existing silver birch

Brick paving using bricks reclaimed from garden Herb garden with birdbath New lawn for badminton

Existing well

Brick step and lawn edging

ABOUT ARUN LANDSCAPES Arun Landscapes has been designing and building gardens for over 20 years. Headed by James SteeleSargent – former chair for the APL – they have built a reputation for quality and excellence in the industry. They undertake projects all over Sussex, Surrey, Kent, London and the South East of England, including contemporary, formal, Mediterranean, small town and large country gardens. Arun Landscapes are regularly contracted by other designers to construct their designs, be it private gardens or show gardens and have a great record at RHS shows.

www.arunlandscapes.co.uk

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Oak pergola and reclaimed yorkstone seating area New flint wall capped with reclaimed sussex saddlebacks (from site) Cedar trellis replaces the existing closeboard fence

Existing brick path through planting Existing Viburnum Bodatense down Existing greenhouse and veg garden

Oak post and wire support for fruit espallier Gravel path to access fruit espallier

Existing small paved area by pond Existing oval pond Cercis canadenses forest pansy

Brick edged, irregular yorkstone, circular seating area Rustic post and rail fence allows views over countryside

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 11:04

Portfolio

CLASSIC ROCK Wildroof Landscapes Wildroof Landscapes was asked to design a garden that would perfectly complement the original features of the clients’ recently restored 300-year-old farmhouse

L

ocated in the heart of the Lake District National Park, the property was an old farm set in several acres of farm land. It enjoys a prominent position overlooking the river Cocker. The area is dominated by the vast natural landscape, traditional stone buildings and dry stone walls.

The owners of this property had spent two years renovating the 300+ year old grade two listed farmhouse to a very high standard. Throughout the renovation they were keen to remain faithful to old building technologies and

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had restored many original features.

When turning their attention to the curtilage, they maintained their focus and wanted a garden that would create the perfect setting for the farmhouse as well as being both attractive and a productive vegetable garden too.

The initial landscaping contract was to create a new front garden and some paving at the rear of the property.

Staff on site varied from two to seven during the project. Since then, Wildroof Landscapes has undertaken other landscaping projects for the owners.

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Portfolio

More images at: www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Project details Cost: £50,000 to £60,000 Size of project: approx. 40m x 20m including house Timeline of development: between June and September 2009

Shortlisted: £40,000-£100,000 Category

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ABOUT WILDROOF LANDSCAPES Wildroof was established in 2005, bringing together over 60 years of experience from complementary backgrounds, to meet the growing demand for imaginative and innovative garden makeovers in Cumbria and the Lake District. They are a small team of designers, gardeners, builders and engineers with a cross section of skills that can provide a complete package of design, hard landscaping and planting solutions. They are all passionate about creating beautiful gardens.

www.wildroof.co.uk

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DETAILS TO CONSIDER ● To create a garden that would integrate harmoniously with its surroundings, giving the impression that it had been established for many years. ● To use building materials salvaged from site and leftover from the house renovation wherever possible. ● The centrepiece of the garden was to be a system of raised vegetable beds for the growing of organic fruit and vegetables during the owner’s retirement.The beds were to be constructed from locally sourced green oak. ● The garden was to be walled and have rabbit proof gates to all entrances. ● The garden would have to incorporate seating

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and entertaining areas and must have sufficient interest so as not to make the long sections of wall look too dominant.

SITE CLEARANCE During the clearance and excavation stage of the project, a considerable quantity of rough walling stone was recovered.The stone was thought to be from old walls and buildings cleared from the site over the years. Approximately 95 metres of stone walling in the new garden was created from the stone found on site.

In addition to the walling stone, a number of stone lintels and broken stone and earthenware troughs were found. All of these were incorporated into the garden walls to create seats and wall features. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 11:18

strips on edge - 3 strips wide

DRYING AREA

Washing line post

Cobble threshold Client: Stewart & Hilary Sawers

Planting pocket Address:

Portfolio

High Hollins Lorton Cockermouth

HOUSE

Cumbria CA13 9UU

DESIGN PLAN

Job Description: Job Description 103.72

DRIVE

Recycled stone trough

Stone seat

Rockery banking to salvaged slate 'informal' steps

Architect:

Cobble border with granite sett edging to drive and planting pocket

Oak gate

Application Number:

Honister slate crazy paving

Stone bench Scale: Perrenial planting bed with boulder edging to path

Drawing Title:

Step stones Cordon trained fruit trees to wall

BANK BARN

1:100

(All dimensions must be checked on site and not scaled from the drawings)

Initial concepts

File: Oak gate

Lorton2008 PIG PEN & EARTH CLOSET

Revisions: Version 3a 16th April 2010

Oak gate Stone wall curved sunken seating area - Rustic capstone tops

Notes: Walled productive garden

Rockery bank

Recycled and local materials only Sheltered seating area Bog garden

Mosaic -'Leaf and bud' paving feature

Cobble border with granite sett edging

Rockery bank

Oak gate closing securely against stone threshold

Stone wall with flat capstone tops

Liz Newport

99.77

Stone bench seat built into wall Honister slate crazy paving Stone wall with rustic capstone tops around entire front garden

Raised planting bed for herbs with coping for seating -450mm finished height

High Dyke House Catterlen Penrith Cumbria CA11 0BE

Gravel path Green oak timber raised vegetable beds (8 total)

Bog garden with boulder edging

Oak gate closing securely against stone threshold

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w. buzylizzie.co.uk e. liz@buzylizzie.co.uk t. 01768 868007 m. 077921 55507

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What delights us is the way it blends with the traditional design of the farmstead and the craggy splendour of the surrounding mountains

1 Looking towards the bank barn before starting clearance.

2 The overgrown rockery.

3 The site as the builders left.

4 Stone salvage and clearance.

5 Cobble edging.

6 Skiddaw slate paving.

7 Building the raised vegetable beds.

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Portfolio

What the owners say The property has changed hands since the project was completed. Here’s what the current owners say about the garden: “The garden was a wonderful surprise hidden within the dip of the hill. What delights us is the way it blends with the traditional design of the farmstead and the craggy splendour of the surrounding mountains. It is actually difficult to believe that it’s not always been there. We also love the idea that, asides from its beauty, a wonderfully practical potager garden has been created by Liz and Phil for a Lakeland setting.”

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1 The sheltered seating area.

2 Recycled troughs were built into the walls.

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General building materials Penrith Building Supplies 41 Stalker Road, Gilwilly Ind Est, Penrith, CA11 9BG Tel: 01768 899 999 Email: james@penrithbuildingsupplies.co.uk Web: www.penrith-building-supplies.co.uk Limestone paving Dalston Aggregates Barras Lane Industrial Estate, Barras Lane, Dalston, Carlisle CA5 7LX Tel: 01228 711 950 Web: www.dalston-aggregates.co.uk Top soil and aggregates W K Stalker & Son Fair Bank, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0BJ Tel: 01768 866 184

4 The bog garden.

5 The ‘King and Queen’ seat backs.

references Garden design and landscaping Wildroof Landscapes High Dyke House, Catterlen, Penrith, Cumbria CA11 0BE Tel: 01768 868 007 Email: info@wildroof.co.uk Web: www.wildroof.co.uk

3 Sedums and Sempervivums were planted in the walls.

6 Aerial view before planting.

Crazy paving Honister Slate Mine Honister Pass, Borrowdale, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5XN Tel: 01768 777 230 Web: www.honister.com Flowpoint Instarmac Danny Morson Way, Birch Coppice Business Park, Dordon, Tamworth B78 1SE Tel: 01827 872 244 Web: www.instarmac.co.uk

7 ‘Leaf’ mosaic paving from above.

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Green Oak K & A Thompson Crosscroft Industrial Estate, Appleby in Westmorland, Cumbria CA16 6HX Tel: 01768 352 884 Plant hire Alan Tuer Ltd North View, Blackford, Carlisle, Cumbria CA6 4EA Tel: 01228 674 717 Walling stone all salvaged from site 7

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www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 11:39

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D E SS I EM B TO T NO

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

Fabulous atmosphere.

Visitor feedback

@FutureScapeUK Thanks for a well thought out and enjoyable event with good stands and interesting seminars!

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@FutureScapeUK Amazing day. Will book again for sure. If you didn’t make it you missed out.

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Big thanks to all the #ProLandscaper team for a great day at @FutureScapeUK. Fantastic atmosphere, smiles all round.

Really easy to get to, good range of exhibits, quality exhibitors, interesting and innovative.

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@ProLandscaperJW @FutureScapeUK Thanks to all team, speakers and attendees for making the event a really great success, sign me up for 2013

Had a great time at #FutureScape yesterday. #ProLandscaper did a fantastic job in organising the event.

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Confirmed Exhibitors and Sponsors 2013

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19/06/2013 10:23

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 editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk To add a splash of colour to any scheme look no further than the magnificent Acer platanoides Royal Red. This American selection of Acer platanoides is a fast growing, medium-large tree which develops a wide conical crown and makes a beautiful standalone specimen. Large clusters of lemon yellow flowers emerge in early spring before the leaves; these are followed by large, dark purple leaves which turn bright red in autumn. Good wind resistance, a tolerance of most soils and urban pollution means that this tree will thrive almost anywhere. www.deepdale-trees.co.uk

The King of the Magnolias, Magnolia grandiflora ‘Gallissonniere’, is a beautiful evergreen large shrub or tree.

The glossy green leaves with their rusty gold underside and the stunning, large, scented creamy-white flowers in summer contribute to the striking nature of this regal plant. Particularly suited to growing against sunny walls or in slightly sheltered positions, Magnolia grandiflora ‘Gallissonniere’, given time, may grow higher than 12m. Unlike some other Magnolias, this particular variety thrives in acid or alkaline soils and flowers at a relatively early age, so making an all-round good choice. www.theplantationnursery.co.uk

Berkheya purpurea really was the star of last year’s RHS Hampton Court Flower Show, proving so popular it featured in the top 10 plants of the show. The rosettes of leaves are grey/green in colour and spiny to the touch with smaller leaves produced along the flower stems forming spiny wings.

Warning – this is not a plant to be caressed lovingly. The silvery blue/ pale purple flowers, almost like small sunflowers in appearance are held above the foliage on strong stems at a height of 60cm.The flower spike can be multi-headed, allowing the plants to be viewed from all angles.

Needs full sun and well-drained soil. www.provendernurseries.co.uk 44

July 2013

Plantsmans Plot 2.indd 44

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 11:49

A passion for excellence in all we do!

“The customer focus at Majestic Trees is very impressive, there is a genuine team enthusiasm for the client’s needs and love of their trees is very evident. The nursery runs with an air of confident efficiency, care and attention to detail that is conveyed right until the trees are delivered to site.

It is easy to do business with Majestic Trees.”

Mark Gregory, Landform Design and Construction, winner of 20 Gold Medals at The Chelsea Flower Show

• DELIVERED • PLANTED • GUARANTEED •

01582 843881 www.majestictrees.co.uk

Majestic Trees is open Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm* *5pm close on Saturdays March 1st to October 31st

LONDON LUTON AIRPORT

M1

JUNCTION 9

STARTS AT 2.30PM Including...

Chequers Hill, Flamstead, Nr St.Albans, Herts, AL3 8ET Tel: 01582 843881 Fax: 01582 843882 e-mail: info@majesticgroup.co.uk

Mark Gregory

OPEN DAY

THURSDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER 2013

Adam Frost

Majestic Trees Chequers Meadow, Chequers Hill Flamstead, Nr. St. Albans Hertfordshire AL3 8ET

• Demonstrations of off-loading trees • Placement and planting • Using the right equipment • Masters of Ceremony: Mark Gregory and Adam Frost • Hog roast/BBQ to conclude

Places are limited so please email ellie.downes@eljays44.com to reserve your place Jims event.indd 5

ADVERTS.indd 199

18/06/2013 10:00

18/06/2013 10:04

“Native or non-native, which one’s best?”

Soft Landscape Workshop - 25 September 2013 Some may say that planners and ecologists have taken control of the choice of plants we use in our planting schemes. Palmstead’s 2013 soft landscape workshop for landscape and garden professionals aims to address this perception and leave you better equipped to negotiate with BREEAM points. Throughout the day our key speakers will discuss and encourage lively debate on the use of native and non-native plants to satisfy planning and environmental requirements.

Tony Kirkham from Kew is an expert on trees, Prof. Nigel Dunnett is a green roof and meadow expert and Prof. Chris Baines is a long time promoter of wildlife in gardens and listed as one of the top 40 most influential people in his field. Plus further speakers to be announced and our showcase exhibition; all taking place at Ashford International Hotel, Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford, Kent, TN24 8UX.

DEEPDALE TREES LTD

Deepdale July.indd 3

ADVERTS.indd 201

T: 01767 262636 • F: 01767 262288 mail@deepdale-trees.co.uk

www.deepdale-trees.co.uk

Find further details and book your tickets (£22.50 inc. VAT) online @

18/06/2013 10:12

18/06/2013 10:17

Plantsman’s Plot Our nursery this month has been overshadowed by the looming presence of this ferocious looking Velociraptor. Thankfully it is just another piece of bespoke Ligustrum delavayanum topiary.

We have many topiary shapes on site and are always taking on new commissions, most recently a piece inspired by Rodin’s ‘The Thinker’ and a giant cobra. www.agrumi.co.uk

Simple to grow and hardy in a range of colours, shrub or patio roses are a very cost effective way to add months of colour and scent to your garden. Come in a range of colours, many mixed and repeat flowering through the late spring and summer. Ideal for slopes, banks and the front of the border. The larger rugosa forms are quick growing and easy to establish. They also make a great hedge with large scented flowers followed by the large red hips. www.colesnurseries.co.uk

Yes, that’s right, we are recommending a magnolia for July. Unlike the vast majority of its relatives, Magnolia sieboldii flowers intermittently from May to August, producing floppy, fragrant, gardenia-like creamy white flowers with startling crimson and yellow centres. Its large-leaved foliage has a lush, summery feel and provides an ideal canvas for the blooms. Curious crimson fruit clusters in late summer adding further interest. This is a fairly small, usually multi-stem tree with spreading branches, potentially attaining a height and spread of 8m by 12m after many years. Will tolerate moist alkaline soil. www.majestictrees.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Plantsmans Plot 2.indd 47

The Cistus or Rock Rose shrubs are very useful and widely used in landscape plantings. They are evergreen, have good flowers, manageable growth, are moderately hardy and come from the Mediterranean. We grow six or more types here, Cistus x pulverulentus Sunset in the picture is more prostrate, growing to 60cm tall by 90cm, but few grow above a metre tall.

We also have the white flowered hybridus/corbariensis and light pink – Silver Pink and darker pink – purpureus. They need good drainage in full sun and are best given a light trim after flowering but don’t prune into old wood. This keeps them compact, floriferous and longer lived. www.palmstead.co.uk

You have to look harder than usual to find interest in trees in July; all spring flowerers have finished and summer flowerers have yet to put on their display. So forget flowers; July is the time for foliage!

Acer platanoides Fairview is a stunning cultivar of Norway maple that has brilliant red new growth throughout the summer that hardens off to green. In July the contrast is fascinating, brilliant red at the tips through to burgundy and green. Of medium size at maturity, this compact tree is useful for urban environments and areas where space is limited. www.barcham.co.uk

July 2013 47

19/06/2013 11:48

Trees

Handling trees on site Many of us routinely plant extra heavy and even semi-mature trees but shy away from planting anything bigger. Sometimes this may be driven by the cost of the tree but more often than not it is due to: ● The liability involved should the tree not survive ● The risk of significant financial loss should the specimen get damaged during installation ● The lack of appropriate available equipment to handle the tree ● A lack of necessary experience ● An access issue

In this modern age, large specimen trees have become fairly common and there is no doubt that mature trees can transform a garden, give it structure, screen out unsightly views, and dramatically increasing property value. We all agree that no garden designer would ever build a

show garden at Chelsea with immature trees, as they know the power of specimen trees, and to obtain that prestigious Gold medal everything must be perfect. Furthermore, those grown in AirPots produce a fantastic fibrous root system and are the ones that have the lovely full lush crowns that so dramatically transform these gardens!

Majestic Trees is a specialist nursery that not only produces high-quality mature trees up to 5,000 litres and 12m tall, but also embraces all the logistical aspects of handling mature specimens enabling it to offer delivery and a range of optional fully guaranteed planting services.

“Handling the most mature specimens is not for the faint hearted”, owner Steve McCurdy readily admits, “there have been plenty of challenges and growing pains to

overcome as we’ve developed our expertise on passion excellence howA to both move andfor successfully plant these inlike allaswe do! trees. It is nothing difficult to move these trees in the winter months when they are dormant; the real challenge comes in the spring and summer when the tree is rapidly growing. One mistake will potentially destroy an expensive specimen.”

To that end, Majestic Trees has invested heavily in the best equipment and have developed unique methods on how to handle these trees. Years of training constantly “The customer focus at and Majestic Trees is verypushing impressive, there is a genuine team enthusiasm for the client’s needs boundaries have enabled to and love of their trees is very evident.

The nurserythem runs with an air of confident efficiency, care and attention to detail that stay the edge ofto how is conveyed righton until thecutting trees are delivered site. to It is easy to do business with Majestic Trees.” successfully move and plant these Mark Gregory, Landform Design and Construction, winner of 20 Gold Medals at The Chelsea Flower large specimens.

Majestic’s fleetShow of trucks are second-to-none, having been custom built to deliver mature trees with rear-wheel steer artic trailers, and lifting and sliding roofs to serve you better.

• DELIVERED • PLANTED • GUARANTEED •

OPEN DAY

Mark Gregory

Adam Frost

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Majestic Trees will be hosting demonstrations of mature tree handling and planting techniques at their upcoming Open Day to be held on Thursday 19 September from 2:30.

Both Mark Gregory and Adam Frost, who between them have won many Chelsea Gold medals, will be acting as Masters of Ceremony. Even if you are a garden designer who normally subcontracts the planting work, this session will be an invaluable opportunity, opening up the realms of possibility for future projects and

01582 843881 www.majestictrees.co.uk

enabling you to confidently explain the process to your clients.

For those already at the sharp end of the tree planting process, you may be interested in learning more about the spectrum of services Majestic Trees can provide, from simple delivery, delivery with off-load, delivery into planting pits, underground anchorage installation, and more.

The company is accustomed to working alongside the landscape contractor onsite.

The demonstration session will LONDON LUTON AIRPORT conclude with dinner, including a hog M1 roast, and a chance to socialiseJUNCTION with 9 *5pm close on Saturdays March 1st to October 31st other members of the industry, finishing just as the rush hour subsides for an Chequers Hill, Flamstead, easy drive home havingHerts, hadAL3 an 8ET Nr St.Albans, Tel: 01582 843881 Fax: 01582 843882 invaluable ande-mail: fun afternoon. info@majesticgroup.co.uk

Majestic Trees is open Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5pm and Saturday 10am - 4pm*

Pro Landscaper are the media partners, and the event is sponsored by Platipus Tree Anchoring Systems. More information can be found on the website at www.majestictrees.co.uk.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 11:42

Trading with...

Q Lawns Give us a brief outline of Q Lawns.

We are a Norfolk based company with agricultural roots who have been growing amenity turfgrass for 20 years and more recently introduced Enviromat sedum matting and Meadowmat wild flower matting into the market place.

How important is the landscape contractor to your business?

Landscapers account for a high proportion of our income so they’re very important. They drive a hard bargain but understand the products and are therefore brilliant at giving us the feedback that makes the supplier-customer relationship so enjoyable.

What additional support do you offer the landscape contractor?

The policy is to offer the best value for money, and we endeavour to tailor our services to the individual as much as we possibly can.

What is the ethos of the company?

We want to produce quality, affordable landscaping products as sustainably as possible. Everything is grown here on our farm, we do our utmost to be water-wise, we’re also pretty careful about using chemical fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides, reducing fuel usage is another of our concerns.

What is the structure of the company?

Trading with Q Lawns.indd 49

Why do landscapers choose you over your competitors?

I’d like to think that it’s because of our quality, service and prices. Also we’ve got a great team and we look after our customers, that’s what keeps them coming back and it’s why, after 20 years of turf growing, we’re more successful than ever.

Do you think landscape contractors will be spending more or less with you this year?

We’re halfway through the year and already beating our sales targets. This is because landscapers are buying more turf, because we have more customers, and because folks like what we do and are happy to stick with Q Lawns.

Do you expect business turnover to increase, decrease or stay the same?

We’re privately owned I’m very optimistic, especially given the by a family run company from demand for our wildflower matting; Northamptonshire, with four I have no doubt that turnover directors taking a keen interest will increase. in the business. I oversee Colin Brown, director running of the farm, with day to Are you planning to increase your rates? day decisions being made by No, not at present. If diesel prices remain stable, so departmental managers. We have a very low staff will the price of delivery. turnover which means that we have a wealth of experience and expertise at our fingertips.

Have you got any new products planned?

We do have a new product under development at the moment. There will be a preview of it at our What is your route to market? Do you Sustainable Landscaping Event on 4 July. have a network of dealers?

Q Lawns aim to make it as easy and as costeffective as possible for landscapers to be using How do you market your company? our turf. Trade users can buy direct from us, We have someone who looks after advertising, or for small orders we’ll help them find their website and blog content, Facebook pages and nearest stockist so that they can save on the Twitter, as well as giving talks to colleges and delivery charges. organisations on the broader aspects of our www.prolandscapermagazine.com

products. We also have our Sustainable Landscaping Event in July, anyone from the industry can attend for free and find out more about what we do.

What exhibitions will you be attending this year?

We’ve already been to the Homebuilding & Renovating Show at the NEC where our Enviromat and Meadowmat were very well received. We’ll be at the Palmstead Nurseries workshop in September as well as The Landscape Show, and then of course, after the success of last year’s FutureScape event, we’ll be there too.

Q Lawns Corkway Drove, Hockwold, Thetford, Norfolk IP26 4JR Tel: 01842 828 266 Web: www.qlawns.co.uk Email: sales@qlawns.co.uk

July 2013 49

19/06/2013 12:17

The Finest Decking for Beautiful Projects by

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

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Exterior Decking exclusively uses and recommends Owatrol decking oil

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+44 (0)1494 722204 office@exteriordecking.co.uk

find your way...

VISIT ONSITE. VISIT ONLINE. BUT VISIT.

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

ADVERTS.indd 213

20/06/2013 11:58

FutureScape Preview REGISTER NOW AT WWW.FUTURESCAPEEVENT.COM

WELCOME TO FUTURESCAPE 2013!

W

e are delighted to announce that the registration for FutureScape 2013 is now open. Building on the fantastic launch event last year, 2013 is shaping up to be even BIGGER and BETTER. We understand how important time is for you, therefore the whole FutureScape event has been geared around making every minute worthwhile. It’s also really important that the event adds real value to you and your business – again, we have worked tirelessly to achieve this.The seminars are packed full of useful and relevant content delivered by experts within their field and were tremendous crowd pleasers last year.

The lineup of exhibitors this year is amazing.

Not only is FutureScape double the size of last year, we also have an array of different products, leading companies and a fantastic nursery zone; all with staff on their stands to advise, explain and answer any questions you may have. Many of the companies have chosen FutureScape as their only event to exhibit at this year.

Please go to www.futurescapeevent.com and register, pick the events and seminars

you wish to attend (please pre-register for the seminars as last year some were over subscribed and pre-registration will guarantee you a seat).

The venue, Kempton Park, is ideally located, with ample free onsite parking, and direct trains from London (Kempton Park Train Station is adjacent to the venue). There will also be a wide variety of refreshments and Pro Landscaper will be sponsoring its own café.

We really hope you can join us at this excellent industry event. For more information please visit the FutureScape website – www.futurescapeevent.com.

@jimeljays

Jim and Lisa Wilkinson Directors, Eljays44 Ltd 01903 234077 www.futurecapeevent.com

ONE DAY. ONE INDUSTRY. ONE EVENT. WWW.FUTURESCAPEEVENT.COM www.prolandscapermagazine.com FutureScape 4 pages NEW.indd 35

@lisaeljays

Tuesday 19 November 2013

at Kempton Park Racecourse, Sunbury on Thames TW16 5AQ

For more information please contact Jamie Wilkinson on 01903 234 077 July 2013 35

19/06/2013 15:34

the from the

REGISTER FutureScape Preview from the

the

NOW AT WWW.FUTURESCAPEEVENT.COM

Seminar and Events:

the the

Seminar topics:

● “Less is More” When Lighting a Garden... ● Teaching the World to Sell ● The Use and Specification of Green Compost within the Landscape the Industry the ● Rainwater Harvesting: Benefits, Limitations and the Future. the the ● Stop Being So Nice! ● Establishing a Wildflower Meadow: the the the Seed or Turf? the ● Creating Sustainable Landscapes – the Building the Future the the ● The Best Hardwood Decking the ● Finishing Touches for Stylish Gardens the the ● Creative Hot Spots ● The Benefits of Sealing: Dispelling the Myths ● Plants, Plants and More Plantsthe ● Water in the Garden

Check out the website for more information on the seminars including times and how to register www.futurescapeevent.com

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July 2013

FutureScape seminar programme is sponsored by GreenTech

FutureScape 4 pages NEW.indd 36

the

the A panel of leading designers the discuss audience questions the

the the from A debate thebetween four principal UK landscapers, including questions from the audience

from the from the Our version of Newsnight, landscape experts answer industry related questions

Let’s Hear it

LIVE

Jim Wilkinson conducts a live interview with a high-profile industry individual

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

20/06/2013 08:56

REGISTER NOW AT WWW.FUTURESCAPEEVENT.COM FutureScape Preview

Speakers include:

Jo Thompson

Kate Gould

David Dodd

Ken White

Ian Drummond

Mark Gregory

David Atkinson

Janine Pattison

Karl Harrison

Patricia Fox

Ellie Parry

James Hewetson-Brown

Frank Newberry

Steve Walley

Gary Timpson

Andrew Fisher Tomlin

Tracy McQue

Phil Jones

Adam Frost

Ann-Marie Powell

Tom Bradley

David Harber

Tim O’Hare

Dan Flynn

Anne Wareham

Further details to be announced next month

ONE DAY. ONE INDUSTRY. ONE EVENT. WWW.FUTURESCAPEEVENT.COM www.prolandscapermagazine.com FutureScape 4 pages NEW.indd 37

Tuesday 19 November 2013

at Kempton Park Racecourse, Sunbury on Thames TW16 5AQ

For more information please contact Jamie Wilkinson on 01903 234 077 July 2013 37

19/06/2013 15:51

Artificial Grass

Thinking about installing artificial grass as a service?

Six suppliers explain the benefits of partnering with them EASIGRASS Easigrass offers a unique turnkey business solution unlike any other in the artificial grass marketplace.

The Easigrass National Partnership

Programme is a unique opportunity for medium to large sized landscaping, paving and home improvement companies to dominate their local marketplace with the brand everyone is talking about.

Unlike an ‘Approved Partner’ scheme the Easigrass Partnership gives you an exclusive

territory to grow your business with a guaranteed lead supply and marketing package.

Pictured is Jonathan Jacques the co-owner of Jacques Landscapes Ltd who are the holders of Easigrass North West.

Jacques Landscapes Ltd has been established for over 40 years and are one of the founder members of BALI. Jonathan is pictured with June Cassidy who is the Manager of the Chester

Branch of John Lewis of which Easigrass have a National Partnership with.

Easigrass currently have Partnership opportunities in Scotland and the East Midlands so if you feel you would be suitable and are looking to grow your business you can contact Easigrass National Account Manager Matthew Spedding on matt@easigrass.com.

WWW.EASIGRASS.COM

HI-TECH TURF As an installer of Hi-Tech Turf’s products you can rest assured that you are supplying your customers with the very latest, top quality artificial grasses. There is no need for you to hold stock as we are able to deliver turf on a next day service and can cut to size for those smaller installations so that you are not left with any waste. If you

choose to install Hi-Tech Turf you will also have the benefit of a dedicated account manager who is at the end of the phone should you have a query.

Our competitive trade prices ensure that you are able to compete in a growing market. We have a wide variety of products available which include domestic

lawn turfs, trade only turfs, coloured grasses for play areas, corporate or event installations. By choosing Hi-Tech Turf you can easily create beautiful, low maintenance, hard wearing landscapes with the best artificial grasses. To find out more about the products we offer and for contact information visit WWW.HITECHTURF.CO.UK

social media activity and web interaction in order to crosspromote our brands; we also provide dual-branded printed collateral where possible. Our committed Business Development

Managers offer a one-to-one account management service to ensure their orders are delivered on time every time.

TigerTurf has taken the time to set up a professional growing network of Approved Installers™; all companies in this network have received training, advice and had their work inspected by a Business Development Manager, ensuring that TigerTurf’s high

TIGERTURF

At TigerTurf our carefully selected partners and installers are supported in many ways through our marketing, PR and sales departments. We encourage our associates to engage in regular

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quality professional practice is passed on through the installer to the customer, as well as guaranteeing their installers’ credentials.

With TigerTurf you can be sure that all the materials are non-toxic and responsibly sourced; our parent company, TenCate, guarantees that quality runs throughout the whole chain.

WWW.TIGERTURFLANDSCAPE.CO.UK

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 13:01

EXPRESS NATIONAL DELIVERY G SU P E R

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To see our full range of products or place your order go to: www.artificialgrass-direct.com or for more information please contact our sales team on:0845 177 1664

Adhesive Systems for Artificial Lawn Installation

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When it comes to installing artificial grass, Envirostik are undisputedly the expert in the field of innovative and trusted products formulated to last a lifetime.

• Systems for installing any area of artificial grass • Choice of seam tapes in a variety of lengths and widths • Specific for outdoor use • High bond strength and easy to apply

Envirostik Limited, Airfield Industrial Estate, Hixon, Stafford, ST18 0PF, U.K. Tel: + 44 (0) 1889 271751 E-mail: enquiries@envirostik.com

ADVERTS.indd 211

18/06/2013 11:28

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

www.hitechturf.co.uk | 01244 289 182 | info@hitechturf.co.uk

HSP GARDEN BUILDINGS LTD 30a Hampstead Avenue, Mildenhall, Suffolk, IP28 7AS, UK t: +44 (0) 1638 583814

Summerhouses, Gazebos, Arbours and Bespoke Structures

w: www.hspgardenbuildings.com e: info@hspgardenbuildings.com

ADVERTS.indd 223

19/06/2013 15:20

Artificial Grass

NAMGRASS The Namgrass business model is very different to any other artificial grass company in the UK, not only in the way we operate our growing UK network, but also in our ‘behind the scenes’ business set-up. We have our own factory in Belgium, which boasts over 30 years’ manufacturing experience, and over 60 million m² of grass sales.

There are no fees at all to become part of the network; rather than deciding to go down the franchise or licenced route, Namgrass’ approach to building a successful network and business relationship is a more relaxed constructive approach. Director Rob Redcliffe explains: “we prefer to build a business relationship with like-minded people, we don’t want

people to feel that they are tied to us, as from experience I know this can cause issues – especially when it comes to fees, or unexpected costs. We are motivated by offering the very best products in the market place, thus attracting the installers/landscapers in the first place.”

The benefits of being ‘vertically integrated’ (having control of all

processes) are obvious, Namgrass has the ability to be incredibly adaptable to market conditions/ demands, thus allowing them to always stay one step ahead. Visit WWW.NAMGRASS.CO.UK for more information and free samples (new website coming soon!)

SMART DIRECT Smart Direct are looking for dealers or installers to promote our quality product range. We offer: no start-up costs; no cast outlay; full product support; and delivery direct to your customers by courier in 2-5 days. Display stands are available, as are ring bound 12” by 15” artificial grass swatches showing the full range – which are good selling tools. Grass is available in 2m and 4m widths (and can be cut to your required length), we have over 100,000m² of grass in stock.

We encourage our customers to

re-brand the grass with their own product names and prices.

All of our products are fully UV stabilised to comply with quality standard, flame retardant to BS 4790, certified to BS EN 1177 – Critical Fall Height, have a 20 year life span and are non-toxic, and carry up to a 10 year guarantee against fading.

WWW.SMART-DIRECT.CO.UK

EVERGREENS UK Evergreens UK has launched a new range of pioneering products exclusively for professional landscapers, designers and architects. iGrass synthetic turf is easy to work with and of the highest quality, with high grade yarns specifically designed to deliver excellent durability levels and pioneering technology that gives the yarn the ability to bounce back. The iGrass portfolio

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includes five products – Insignia, Icon, Style, Architect and Image – offering different shades, pile heights and appearances to suit all applications, including gardens, roof terraces, play areas and pool sides.

Landscapers choosing these high quality products can also expect first class service, with 24/7 technical support, training courses and a dedicated account

manager. Installation web videos and straight talking experienced advice also ensure landscapers can take advantage of the very best support. iGrass has an impressive stock holding within the UK’s largest dedicated artificial turf warehouse, and offers a free next day delivery service, so all orders can be processed quickly.

Call 08000 844 339 or visit WWW.IGRASS.CO.UK

July 2013

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19/06/2013 13:04

Artificial Grass

latest products

Namgrass’s Green Meadow – ultra soft, yet incredibly resilient.

Featuring a 32mm, multi toned, unique diamond shaped ‘finer’ fibre and low down, ultra dense, curled fibre, forming a supportive ‘thatch zone’ – Green Meadow is unrivalled in terms of realism, quality and price. Green meadow is perfect for almost any application where artificial grass is required, Namgrass products feature their own unique diamond shaped fibres offering extreme resilience, without

Easigrass Mayfair V Yarn is a specially developed artificial grass surface that is designed by nature to ensure a resilient and hard wearing product. Showcased in prestigious locations such as Wimbledon and most recently Europe’s tallest building The Shard in central London, Easigrass Mayfair V Yarn is the go-to product for events, high footfall areas and family garden applications. www.easigrass.com

Evergreens UK has launched an exclusive range of products for landscapers, featuring its pioneering ‘intelligence yarn’ technology. iGrass is an industry innovation, ensuring the next generation of artificial grass yarns have resilience, durability and most importantly memory. The ability to recover its shape, plus its soft, realistic appearance, sets iGrass apart from its rivals and means the products can be used in an unlimited variety of applications. www.igrass.co.uk

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compromising on the feel. Namgrass have 30+ years of artificial grass development and manufacturing experience, and products are backed up by a 10 year product guarantee. www.namgrass.co.uk

TigerTurf’s landscape range replicates the varied tones, shapes and soft feel of grass, making it the most realistic on the market. Their newest product added to the range in 2013, Finesse Lite, provides customers with a luxurious and aesthetically pleasing lawn, ideal for light traffic gardens. The 24mm height artificial grass incorporates a two-tone brown thatch layer and a mix of texturised and straight yarns. All products are tested to the highest standards and come with extended guarantees. www.tigerturflandscape.co.uk

Envirostik offers high strength adhesives and tapes for bonding synthetic grass. Envirostik Aqua Bond Adhesive is a single-component, moisturecuring adhesive ideal for smaller areas. Envirostik Lawn-Fix tape is a self-adhesive tape for bonding artificial grass seams, and is ideal for lighter traffic areas.

Envirostik Multi Purpose Wet-Fix Adhesive is perfect for larger areas.

It’s a two-component PU system, and like Aqua Bond, it’s ideal for use with Envirostik Seaming Tape LMP, a strong geo-textile fabric tape with an impervious backing, perfect for bonding artificial grass carpets. www.envirostik.com

Artificial Grass Direct’s finest quality grass has a host of classy features which make it stand out from the crowd. Luxury Club is a luscious 36mm piled grass with multiple coloured memory pile to reduce flattening. The complex chocolate brown curly thatch structure adds to the exceptionally realistic look of this product. All products are specially created to give an individual finish, and are exclusive to Artificial Grass Direct. www.ArtificialGrass-Direct.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 13:07

Latest Products

wood products

A trellis in the garden has many functions: it provides year-round interest, gives climbers something to cling to as they put on their spring growth, and increases privacy in the garden, to name but three. Anthony de Grey’s made-to-measure trellises and structures provide the ideal backdrop for plants and create elegant living areas in all shapes and sizes of gardens and terraces. Everything is made to order to fit the garden, and painted in the colour of your choice, so all layouts are totally unique. www.trellises.co.uk

If you’re looking for an effective way to hide air conditioning units, bins, walls or other unsightly areas then these distinctive jointed, flush-faced square trellis panels are the ideal solution. With unrivalled methods of construction, these strong, rigid panels are ideal for cutting down when a bespoke size or shape is required. Available in a range of sizes and a choice of 25 attractive and varied colours, to really transform those difficult or unattractive areas. www.trellisdirect.co.uk

These timber fence and gate posts have been made from pressure treated, kiln dried, UK sourced pine, and continue to be a popular product for both retail and trade customers. AVS are so confident on the quality of the posts, that they have backed them with the AVS 15 year guarantee against rot. Available in a variety of sizes and light brown or brown finishes, these posts can be morticed on request. www.avsfencing.co.uk

A well-designed and carefully built slatted screen can provide a wonderful focal point for an outdoor space, so choosing the correct material is paramount. No other material compares to Western Red Cedar in terms of appearance; with a tight grain and beautiful warm colours, it provides a stunning natural look. Built with horizontal boards, the aesthetic appeal of this style of screen lies in its simple clean lines and attractive proportions. www.silvatimber.co.uk WoodBlocX is a revolutionary new product for garden landscaping. Chunky wooden BlocX fit together using large plastic dowels to create strong raised beds, planters, retaining walls, ponds, kerbing or special garden features like seats – almost any structure you want to build in the garden. www.woodblocx.co.uk

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Latest Products

WOOD PROTECTION Cuprinol Exterior Wood Preserver (BP) is an exterior pigmented wood preservative for rough sawn and smooth garden timbers, such as cladding, fencing, sheds, greenhouses and summerhouses. It contains active ingredients that penetrate into the timber to prevent rot, decay and blue stain. It is a water-based product that can be used near plants and is available in five natural colours. Harmless to plants when dry. Water repellent.

WWW.CUPRINOL.TRADE-DECORATING.CO.UK

Solid Colour Stain is an all-in-one wood treatment and opaque matt finish with long lasting performance. As SCS is a wood treatment and not a conventional paint, it will never peel or flake, it will also last longer than standard exterior paints – with a 15 year guarantee on vertical surfaces and five year on horizontal surfaces, such as decking. SCS is available in 52 different shades and makes an excellence finish for decking, cladding, masonry, outdoor furniture, fencing and sheds.

WWW.OWATROLDIRECT.CO.UK

Protek’s Royal range is a high quality, decorative wood finish. Royal has been specifically designed to give long-lasting protection with a soft lustre that allows the wood grain to show through. The range of colours are classic, contemporary and fit perfectly with modern design. Royal Superior Exterior wood finish provides a water-resistant finish, and is perfect for use on all wood products such as windows, doors, conservatories, gates, summerhouses, cladding and garden furniture. Royal Exterior Wood Finish is low in odour and with low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds). The unique formulation is a water-based micro-porous acrylic and alkyd hybrid that incorporates a polyurethane dispersion based on linseed oil – a natural renewable resource.

WWW.PROTEKWOODSTAIN.CO.UK

Osmo UK’s Anti-Slip Decking Oil provides a slip resistant finish for wooden decking. Anti-Slip Decking Oil is an oil based finish which increases the durability of the surface, protects it against mould, algae and fungal attack, and reduces the risk of slipping. The clear, satin finish also offers a small amount of UV protection which will help protect against greying. Penetrating deeply into the wood pores and fibres, it provides a long lasting level of protection from within the wood.

WWW.OSMOUK.COM

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The Professional’s Choice

Solid Colour Stain All-in-one wood treatment that lasts for years, no peeling, no flaking!

Ideal Solution for...

Decking, Cladding, Sheds, Garden Furniture, Fencing and more!

15 YEAR Guarantee

*

Available in

52 Colours www.owatroldirect.co.uk

*15 years on sidings and 5 years on decks.

01923 219122

Anthony de Grey Trellises

Architectural Trellises made to order, in a wide range of panel designs and lattice options Arbour seats, Gazebos, Pergolas, Pavilions, Planters and Decking

020-7738 8866

www.trellises.co.uk

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20/06/2013 12:12

Natural Stone

Stone on show

With natural stone being an ever popular element of garden design, we took a closer look at how this versatile landscape material was used at the 2013 Chelsea Flower Show to maximum effect

Stockton Drilling’s “As Nature Intended” Garden Designer: Jamie Dunstan Contractor: Morgan & Neal Garden Construction “Burlington Stone produces and supplies British natural stone products from all its quarries based in the heart of the English Lake District.The stone used in the paving for Jamie Dunstan’s garden came from the Broughton Moor quarry and is over 350 million years old.

The stone had a waterjet finish, to ensure greater slip resistance, whilst maintaining the aesthetic appearance of the natural markings in the stone.”

The Wasteland Designer: Kate Gould Contractor: The Team Landscapers “As with all the reclaimed materials we looked at what was available as a re-used item. Donegal Quartzite also happens to be very attractive and lends itself to crazy paving well. CED, where the stone came from has an area of Donegal Quartzite just outside their offices and it’s been laid for about 20 years and still looks great.”

The SeeAbility Garden Designer: Darren Hawkes Contractor: The Garden Builders with Wheelbarrow “All of the slate for the garden came in the form of 20 inch roofing slates, half was reclaimed from Cornwall and the other half sourced from Portugal.

Each slate was individually cut to size with a guillotine, and then laid in a pattern to mimic an iris. I took inspiration from a local parish church, which had a woven pattern made from slate on the floor of the porch.”

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www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 16:46

NEW & EXCLUSIVE

FOR 2013

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Pro-Landscaper CotS_Pro-Landscaper 05/06/2013 10:21 Page 1

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Oxford shingles is a mixture of natural beiges and Cotswold colours - and are available in sizes 10mm, 20mm or 40mm shingle Call now for our Decorative Shingle leaflet...

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National Trust Landscape Collection The National Trust together with established reproduction paving company Westminster Stone have created ranges of paving and landscaping products of unrivaled quality and character influenced by National Trust properties and gardens throughout the UK. The Collection offers an authentic ambiance and instant maturity and charm to any setting.

Paving | Decorative Shingle | Garden Artefacts Visit Westminster Paving Collection sites at Westminster Paving Collection, Burford Garden Company, Shilton Road, OX18 4PA Call: 01993 822877 WS Paving & Landscaping Centre, Shaws Estate, Sodylt, Ellesmere, Shropshire SY12 9EL Call: 0844 248 9262

Cotswold Manor Hidcote Flagstone | Snowshill Shingle | Cotswold Trough

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Our Oxford range of shingles have both aesthetic and practical uses; they look great when used on driveways, paths and landscape projects but also work well if using for land drainage and pipe bedding.

18/06/2013 12:58

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8

Natural Stone The Arthritis Research UK Garden Designer: Chris Beardshaw Contractor: Keith Chapman Landscapes

The Fera Garden: Stop the Spread Designer: Jo Thompson Contractor: The Outdoor Room

“We used natural stone paving, it was a sandstone product chosen for its colour, because the supplier was also supplying our drystone walling too at the back of the garden, and also because they could cut to the specific sizes we wanted.”

“I used oriental blue black slate from London Stone, slightly thicker at 25mm, and sparingly for the steps and accent points of the garden. Even used sparingly it gives a very sleek, natural contemporary look. It sat well with Tom Stogdon’s sculpture and the acid, pale and lime greens of my planting scheme. It’s a look that’s popular for interiors too which shows how versatile it is.”

Cloudy Bay Discovery Garden Designers: Andrew Wilson and Gavin McWilliam Contractor: Garden Link “We used two stones in the garden: the local rock to the Cloudy Bay vineyard in the Marlborough region is called Greywacke – although this rock does occur in the UK, where we tried to source it the stone is only available as a shale.

Scottish gabbro boulders were the most similar to the stone and we sourced these through CED, carefully selecting the forms that most suited the garden.The gravel used in the garden is sold by CED as Black & Tan, descriptive of its colour.The garden was designed as a gravel garden mainly to reflect the clear shallow waters of the river that flows through the vineyard.

We also used the gravel in the rammed earth walls to echo the soil profile of the vineyard, echoing the second concept that ordinary things could be made extraordinary.”

B&Q Sentebale ‘Forget Me Not’ Garden Designer: Jinny Blom Contractor: Steve Swatton “The steps were made from Pietra Serena, an Italian sandstone sourced from a quarry in a mountainous region of Italy between Bolognia and Florence. Jinny chose the stone because she wanted something which was plain and even in terms of colour and texture.

This sandstone is incredibly consistent and flat which made the contours and geometry, and therefore the message of the garden more powerful – as Jinny’s garden was highly conceptual, too many colours and textures could have confused the message.The grey also worked as a perfect contrast to the planting, which had a wilder look to it.”

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COMPETITIVE PRICES

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The addition of these new machines ensures that our CAMON range now includes everything you, the professional, could need for landscape and groundcare maintenance. From rotavators and chippers to hedgetrimmers and mowers. Why buy anywhere else?

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Versatility at work

For demanding daily use, Kubota offers a powerful and versatile choice.

The Kubota range of groundcare machinery delivers outstanding performance, simple operation and legendary reliability.

From powerful and versatile tractors to high performance mowers, find out why Kubota is the practical choice for professionals.

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Equipment

EQUIPMENT NEWS

Welcome to the equipment pages of Pro Landscaper, where we will be looking at new products and developments in the market. If you have any stories, please email them to joe.wilkinson@eljays44.com or tweet me @ProLanKit

Rural crime prevention initiative uses new Cushman 1600XD-R A Cushman 1600XD-R utility vehicle in full police livery including blue flashing beacons will be

featured in Suffolk Constabulary’s rural crime prevention initiative across the county this summer.

The vehicle will help raise awareness of issues around metal, diesel and equipment thefts as well as burglaries, by providing an opportunity to engage with residents to make

sure everything possible is being done to reduce rural crime and lower the chances of individuals and landowners becoming victims of offences. Speaking recently at the handover of the vehicle, Paul Marshall, Deputy Chief Constable for Suffolk said, “Officers cannot tackle rural crime without the cooperation and support of communities and businesses.

Policing in rural areas brings some very specific and unique challenges.” www.ransomesjacobsen.com/ cushman

Gavin Jones invests in John Deere machinery Jones made a £1.8m investment into the contract through new John Deere machinery, chosen for its exceptional quality this fleet reflects the high quality nature of the Gavin Jones company.

The Aspire contract maintains four Army garrisons across seven sites at Aldershot and Salisbury Plain, employing 70 men to cover the requirements. www.deere.co.uk

Aspire Defence

Following the successful five year grounds maintenance contract with Aspire Defence Services Ltd, Gavin Jones Ltd recently renewed this to a Partnership status and a 29 year Evergreen Contract. Gavin

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Cub Cadet launch new UK website

Lawn tractor and petrol lawnmower manufacturer Cub Cadet has launched a brand new UK website – www.cubcadet.co.uk.

Yvonne Weaving who handles marketing for the brand in the UK said: “The Cub Cadet brand is a market leader in the USA, a success we aim to mirror here. In the past it had no strong online branding, which this website aims to address. I want to ensure that we have a stage to showcase the wide range of petrol powered walk-behind and ride-on machines to UK customers to form the basis of marketing activity including social media and offline events in dealerships.” www.cubcadet.co.uk July 2013

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Parts

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Service

18/06/2013 10:59

Equipment

Kioti launches eight new tractor models customers have told us that they Tractor manufacturer Kioti is want a more powerful, but more in the process of launching compact model, and that is what eight new models and they are getting.”

19 new variants of The CK2810 has been tractors into the developed due to customer groundscare market. demand for a higher Starting from May horsepower model, but in a 2013 the range has been more compact package. The subject to some exciting new model features a 28hp changes. The first to clean burn diesel engine and be launched was the The CK2810 has is available with a choice Kioti CK2810 compact been developed due of transmissions – either a tractor, brought in to replace the CK22 and to customer demand 6F/2R manual transmission CK27 products, which for a higher horsepower or an easy to use two range HST. It also has a new easy have been discontinued. model but in a more to view dash panel which John Walls, Managing provides the operator with compact package Director of Reco, all the must-have information importer of the Kioti at a glance. Options and accessories products into the UK told Joe Wilkinson, available for the Kioti CK2810 Equipment Editor of Pro Landscaper, “We include the KL2510 front loader, needed these new models now because the a mid PTO, front-weight kit CK22 and CK27s aren’t being made anymore and a 60 inch mid mounted and we have run out of stock models. Our

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mowing kit. A deluxe cabin is also currently under development.

After an 18 month break, Kioti are offering finance options on a couple of their ranges again as of May 2013.

Three of the new models, the CK2810, a new NX series of tractors and a new range of RX products will all be available at SALTEX, the Sports Amenity & Landscape Trade Exhibition in September.

A new website, purely for Kioti products in the UK, will be ready in time for the exhibition. Development of this is currently underway.

For more information, visit www.reco.co.uk or call 01480 401 501

July 2013

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Equipment

SLOPE MOWERS The maintenance of steeply sloping grassed areas up to 30 degrees is easier, safer and more costeffective with the Shibaura SG280 ride-on slope mower, through UK importer FGM Claymore Ltd. Where operator safety is the issue, UK authorities and professional

RECO Grasshopper Slopeoffers mowers are becoming zero-turn mowers.

Models increasingly common for are available with aconsidering choice of sizes, landscapers a cutting decks safer way to (including complete out-front) cuts on and mulching kit options. slopes and banks.

With Hydraulic the drive systems with highand more stringent health performance filtrationspecialist are a safety legislations, particular feature.are Other slope mowers nowfeatures the include cooling fansitfor best option when comes to transmission motors, keeping banks and hills interchangeable blade ensuring sets and looking good, whilst effective lower bearing protection. the safety of the operators.

Accessories asgradient leaf/debris Dependingsuch on the of blower, aerator, and the slope that collector you will be sweepers available for most mowing,are there are a number models, to increase the versatility of factors – other than price – of the Compared to to tomachines. consider when it comes steering wheeled the purchasing.

Are machines you likely to zero-turn easier and be usingmower it on a is roadside quicker manoeuvre, bank?to Then maybe aresulting remote in higher work unit rate isalong controlled bestwith due to increased comfort and wellbeing safety concerns.

Are you ofgoing the operator. to be using it on gentle WWW.RECO.CO.UK hillsides covering the grounds This willmanor see the of season a country orintroduction rural of area? the new Ransomes Meteor Then a specialist slope from Ransomes Jacobsen. ride-on is probably best. It uses a flail rotor within Magna Whatever option youa think is cutting frame, providing the right,unit remember to take the robustness and versatility a rotary correct precautions andofkeep mower while giving a more your mowers in the best acceptable finish.The new cutting possible condition. heads can cope with longer grass

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contractors benefit from the SG280’s high power, low centre of gravity, low noise and vibration levels, fully adjustable horizontal rolling seat, to compensate for working angle and 26 litre fuel tank for more efficient working. The 20.6hp Shibaura N843 Diesel

The four wheel driven IRUS QUATRAK operates through remote control, with a range of up to 300m. This is the ideal distance to work with, as the machine always needs to be within a good visibility of the operator. A specialist

engine delivers stability of power output and is fully compliant with UK emission regulations.

WWW.FGMCLAYMORE.CO.UK

slope mower, the IRUS QUATRAK comfortably tackles tough mowing tasks on flat and difficult to access areas.

WWW.IPU.CO.UK

Ransomes Spider remote controlled slope mowers are ideal for maintaining steep banks and inclines. As the operator has no physical contact with machine, they can control the mower in complete safety.

All machines in the range have four wheel drive and steering, enabling banks to be mown in any direction. Unlike some

competitors’ tracked versions that use skid steering, Spider mowers have cleated tyres that significantly reduce ground disturbance.

The recently upgraded Spider Mini is ideal for the smaller landscaper, while the Spider 1 and Spider 2 offer greater productivity with

cutting widths of 0.8m and 1.23m respectively.

WWW.RANSOMESJACOBSEN.COM

Available through Simon Richard Ltd, Reform produces tractors

from 44hp-70hp in their Metrac G series and 46hp-79hp in their Metrac H (hydrostatic) series.

This range covers all eventualities for a range of users including amenity, utility, contractor and golf.

Optional implements, and Metrac’s light footprint and ‘crab-steer’ mode, for working on sloping

terrain at angles of up 45 degrees, means a multitude of possible uses from one machine and a solution to operator health and safety issues. Simon Richard comments “the Metrac with a Muthing flail delivers safe efficient working on larger and banked areas.”

WWW.SLOPEMOWER.CO.UK

www.prolandscapermagazine www. www.prolandscapermagazine.com prolandscapermagazine.com prolandscapermagazine .com

19/06/2013 12:10

Pro landscaper ad:Layout 1 13/06/2013 14:06 Page 1

REMOTE CONTROL TECHNOLOGY BOOK YOUR DEMONSTRATION 01584 873131

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Works on slopes up to 55 degrees 150m remote control range Ultimate all-terrain performance Wide range of attachments Fuel-efficient Isuzu diesel engine

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20/06/2013 12:20

INJECTISYSTEMS N

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18/06/2013 12:48

Equipment

LATEST KIT The Kanga TD825 has greater power, performance and lifting abilities of all the Kanga range.

The TD825 is a high performance tracked machine which has four wheel drive, a two speed transmission, increased horsepower, and a more expansive array of attachments. Recently redesigned and engineered from the ground up, the TD825 has phenomenal time and labour saving multi-tasking abilities and provides more than enough horsepower to get the toughest jobs done quickly, safely and easily.

WWW.KANGALOADER.CO.UK

Spaldings have announced that the Viking MB 4 RTP self-propelled mulching mower has been added to their extensive range.

This mower is perfect for the professional looking for that perfect mulch, even in densely planted areas with numerous obstacles. The ergonomically designed mulching mower is robust and ideal for the professionals. Its soft-grip handlebar and anti-vibration elements making it comfortable to use as well as practical. When used professionally, all Viking R series mowers are covered by a one year warranty.

WWW.SPALDINGS.CO.UK

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The new Kubota W821-PRO walk behind mower is the perfect tool for ensuring a professional looking cut each and every time. Featuring a heavy-duty aluminium die cast construction, the W821-PRO’s Heavy Duty Deck ensures the mower is built to last, yet agile enough around the lawn. The powerhouse mower has also been

Tracmaster has introduced a new Honda iGX440 engine for the BCS 630WS Bank Commander. Providing improved power and engine control, this new Honda engine has been customised by Tracmaster specifically to cope with the gruelling demands of bank maintenance and will be fitted on all new BCS 630WS Bank Commanders.

The new iGX440 engine has an electronic governor which reacts to control the rpm of

With its 125cm cutting width, the Amazone Profihopper 4WDi can cut, collect, scarify, mulch and roll.

reinforced with replaceable deck wear, all made from highly durable

materials – allowing the mower to be a lawn care companion for years to come, thanks to ease of maintenance. In addition, the mower’s Blade Brake Clutch stops the blade quickly for added safety, allowing the user to empty the 75L grass bag safely without stopping the engine.

WWW.KUBOTA.CO.UK

the engine and subsequently the control of the attachment it is operating, allowing it to adjust automatically to the vegetation and terrain it is working on.

WWW.TRACMASTER.CO.UK

The 1.2m Wessex AFC-120 flail mower has been developed to meet the needs of contractors, farmers, and estate owners and is well suited to controlling dense vegetation such as brambles, bracken, long grass and the maintenance of forestry and woodland areas. The AFC series feature a centrally mounted engine as opposed to the AF side mounted engine, designed to help balance the machine on steep bank work.

WWW.BROADWOODINTL.CO.UK

The out-front PowerCompactor cutting deck includes the Exact-cut rotor with a new, reinforced auger collection system consisting of one longitudinal and one cross auger.

The longitudinal auger, which now has a diameter of double that of the outgoing 04 model, clears the Exact-cut rotor quicker and packs

the cuttings so tightly into the 730L hopper that over 1000L of mown material can be collected in one go.

The result is that the Profihopper 4WDi PowerCompactor, even in tall grass situations, offers a much higher mowing speed than was previously possible.

WWW.AMAZONE.CO.UK

July 2013

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19/06/2013 11:58

Outdoor expertise at every turn...

SALTEX is the UK’s largest event for groundscare, sports, amenities and landscaping – including leisure and play, arboriculture and horticulture • Hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest machinery, tools, vehicles and turfcare products • Live demonstrations - all outdoor • FREE expert advice, seminars and workshops • FREE skills updates and training

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Equipment

LATEST KIT The Bobcat 3400D utility vehicle is the latest multi-purpose dieselpowered utility vehicle added to the Bobcat line of compact equipment.

This third generation Bobcat utility vehicle is the most rugged, fastest and best performing off-road utility vehicle the company has ever produced. Thanks to a choice of drive modes and dealer-installed

The RG25HD is Rayco’s premier Mini Work Force stump grinder. It features a reliable Kohler 25hp petrol engine with dual element air cleaner and electric start. A powerful hydrostatic transmission, large wheels and tyres navigate over obstacles and difficult terrain. It is made to fit through a 30 inch gate, so the RG25HD can get to just about any stump. Adjustable handlebars, parking brake, operator presence bar handle and an electric clutch are standard features on the RG25HD. WWW.WESTCONUK.COM

Lightweight and compact, the Toro CT2140 triple mower distributed by Lely UK is ideal for landscape contractors looking for an efficient and cost-effective machine that’s also easy to manoeuvre and transport. Thanks to its narrow transport width of 130cm – the narrowest in its class – the CT2140

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Latest Kit Machinery.indd 75

accessories, the Bobcat 3400D Utility Vehicle is designed to accommodate the needs of the widest variety of applications. If you need to do more in a day, the Bobcat 3400D utility vehicle delivers the power, traction and versatility you need to take on a wider variety of jobs.

WWW.BOBCAT.EU

A great day was had by all who attended GreenMech’s recent Open House events on Thursday 16 and Friday 17 May with enthusiastic feedback received from all who came along. GreenMech are proud to be the only UK supplier of wood chippers that complete the entire process of designing and manufacturing a wood chipper from start to finish in-house. The visitors saw this for themselves when they took part in a

comprehensive factory tour to see how the sheet steel that arrives at one end of the factory comes out the other end as a brand new machine.

WWW.GREENMECH.CO.UK

is nimble enough to navigate restrictive access and areas.

This compact size, together with

the CT2140’s light weight of 1200kg, allow it to be easily transported on a Ford Transit-type vehicle, on a beavertail/flatbed van or inside some panel-van models.

This means those transporting the mower can do so under a standard Category B driving licence.

WWW.TORO.COM

The Hayter Harrier 56 Pro is robust, vigorous and flexible and it easily tackles a variety of grassed areas. Maximum power is obtained from one of the new Briggs & Stratton EcoPlus™ engines which offer reduced exhaust emissions that are at least 25 per cent lower than current European exhaust standards.

In addition the evaporative emissions performance is improved by up to 51 per cent compared to engines which do not feature the EcoPlus™. The Hayter friction disc system provides a lifetime guarantee against engine crankshaft bending.

WWW.HAYTER.CO.UK

The purpose of the KUHN Amenity Pro sprayer’s dosing system is to minimise chemical mixing and disposal whilst remaining accurate and easy to use. It is designed to keep clear water in the main tank, only mixing the chemical at the point of exit. Two systems are available: ControlSpot (lance only) and ControlMix, which are specific to KUHN Amneity Pro range of sprayers. ControlMix can be specified on the Actis and Optis tractor mounted ranges or alternatively use a standard incorporator and rinsing tank system.

WWW.KUHN.CO.UK

July 2013

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19/06/2013 11:59

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To see our plant portfolio visit www.greenlineplants.co.uk

Nationwide delivery or Cash and Carry from Agrumi Limited Meadow Farm, Sway Road, Tiptoe, Lymington, Hampshire SO41 6FR For competitive quotes contact Stanley Jackson on 0778 606 4018

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18/06/2013 12:23

Three Peaks Extreme Challenge

Three Peaks Extreme Challenge

As the challenge draws nearer, we thought we’d find out how the training is coming along.

Also, Perennial has given us an insight into how it has helped in a real life situation. Read on to find out about the dedication of those taking part and how your donation could help

Myself and Matt O’Conner completed our first 100 miler in June. We rode out with the Herts wheelers cycling club.The first 50 miles were quite gruelling, as the route (Ware through to Dunstable Downs) had some challenging hills and the pace was quite fast, an average of 18-25mph.The ride taught me that this is not a race but an endurance test, and if you manage your fluid/food levels correctly, you can rack up the miles albeit at a slower pace. Plenty of water and a huge bag of jelly babies goes down well. We managed 102 miles in 7 hours 50 minutes, which isn’t too bad.

Darren Skidmore – Skidmores of Hertford

I recently rode 40 miles over five days and my gluteus maximus is hurting like never before!

I have been running over 20 miles a week most of the year so I hope I can transfer my aerobic fitness levels to the bike once I have developed the required muscles. My training is now bike, bike, bike – I have been biking three days a week as per our training schedule to reach 80 miles a week by the end of the month. Motivation isn’t a problem as all I have to do is read other participants’ progress, this certainly brings on adrenaline.

Nigel Bowcock – Acre Landscapes

I did the Evans Ride It event, it was good to see what the distance was like. It was achievable but it’s not going to be easy several days in a row. One observation was that you can’t eat or drink too much during the cycle.There were three drink/food stops at 25, 50 and 90 miles which seemed to work well. By the time I’d reached the drinks stops I’d finished both water bottles I’d been carrying. Ideally stopping for 15mins a time is good, much longer than that and you could start to cramp up and lose momentum.

Ed Belderbos – Belderbos Landscapes

Training on the bike is going well (140-250 miles per week), I’m losing weight, and I plan to start hill-running after a cycling holiday in the Pyrenees in July. Having worked with/in the trade for so many years, and seen (and been part of) the hardships that can quickly turn into disasters, it’s good to know there is a port of call. I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the crew and I know it will be tough, but just think of all the endorphins!

Grant Beerling – Bartholomews

What your donation could provide... £25

Ensure a horticulturist’s child has shoes for school.

£50

Pays for a life line to be installed in the home of an elderly or disabled horticulturist.

£75

Purchases a computer screen magnifier for a client with sight loss.

£100

Pays for one day’s respite care for a disabled child of a horticulturist.

£150

Pays for a professional occupational therapist to assess a client’s needs.

£200

Pays for 10 counselling sessions for a client following a traumatic bereavement.

£500

Pays for the ashes of a client with no family to be interned and suitably marked.

£750

Pays removal fees for a client fleeing domestic violence.

£1000

Would buy a new boiler for a family without hot water and heating.

If you’re interested in taking part please email 3peaksextreme@gmail.com for more information.

If you would like to pledge your support to the team please either email editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk, or alternatively you can text NUTS67 and £5 to 70070 to make a donation. Keep up to date via Twitter @ peaksextreme and Facebook 3PE. Good luck to all involved! www.prolandscapermagazine.com

3 Peaks.indd 77

Case Study John was in his late twenties, a trained plantsman who loved his job, when he was diagnosed with a degenerative neurological disorder. This left him unable to work, and his extensive care needs meant he had to move back in with his parents.This sudden regression led to depression.

Thankfully, John knew about Perennial and contacted them. A case worker ascertained that as well as difficulties with regard to mobility around the home, the family also had financial difficulties. John’s mother had reduced her hours at work to provide care for him which meant a reduction in the household’s income, also their home was not suitable for John’s condition.

Perennial bought John a rise and recliner chair, and also fundraised for a rise and recliner bed to allow him to get out of bed unaided, giving him more independence and dignity.They referred him to social services for adaptations to the property which resulted in a stair lift being fitted, a refurbished bathroom, grab rails and ramps fitted throughout the property.They also applied for carer’s allowance for his mother which increased the household income.

Finally, knowing that John was only really happy when he was outside caring for plants, Perennial paid for raised beds and specialist gardening tools so he could continue his passion for horticulture.

July 2013

77

19/06/2013 12:14

People

THE

LITTLE INTERVIEW Kevin Barnett Kevin Barnett Garden Design www.gardencoaching.blogspot.co.uk What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment?

My imagination, spatial awareness and ability to ‘see’ designs and planting in my mind’s eye.

Also my Stihl combi system and trailer.

Name one thing unique about your business.

My grounding in horticulture and good plant knowledge.

How do you find new clients?

This year I am building a show garden/trade stand at the New Forest & Hampshire Show. It’s where I live and where my target market is.

What is the busiest time of year for you?

February to December, so holiday in January!

Keith Lando Vernon TLC Environmental www.thelandscapecompanyuk.com In business terms, do you expect 2013 to be better than 2012?

Potentially better as the need is getting greater to work both smarter and harder.

What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment?

Laptop.

Name one thing unique about your business.

My range of skills in horticulture, arboriculture, landscape architecture and environmental management systems, and their integration.

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

Achieve an MHort.

78

July 2013

Little Interview.indd 78

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 editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk How important is social media as a means of communication with clients?

It’s more important than ever.

Best book you’ve ever read?

Anything by John Grisham.

Your most inspirational garden?

Hestercombe Gardens in Somerset for the stunning Edwardian garden design by Sir Edwin Lutyens and Gertrude Jekyll. The Gardens of Appelturn in the Netherlands have also inspired me.

Your dream job?

An unlimited budget, engaged and enthusiastic clients with the trust to let me get on with it.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

Career changing five years ago from the police service.

Gaynor Witchard Gaynor Witchard Garden Design www.witchardgardens.com What is your most important piece of equipment?

Without a doubt it’s my computer. Since learning how to use CAD, my business has become more efficient, and my designs much more interesting although I can still hand draw.

What is the busiest time of year for you?

Between February and November; I receive anything between one and three design enquiries each month.

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

Social media in our sector is really taking off.

I’ve been commissioned via Facebook a few times.

First album you ever bought?

Waterloo by ABBA.

Do you monitor your competitors’ progress?

I am interested to see other designers’ work and which areas of Cardiff have the most demand for designs.

How do you find new clients?

Through social media, and repeat and recommend business.

How do you find new clients?

Having a presence at RHS shows helps make new contacts and draws in new clients. There’s always a lot of interest in my show gardens.

Best book you’ve ever read?

Design With Nature by Ian L. McHarg.

Describe yourself in three words.

Talkative, enthusiastic, mad.

Your most inspirational garden?

Charles Jencks’ The Garden of Cosmic Speculation.

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

None as yet – never look back and say ‘I wish’.

Your dream job?

Freelance landscape architect for the Royal Parks.

Best book you’ve ever read?

It’s always the last book. At the moment I’m reading Landprints –The Landscape Designs of Bernard Trainor by Susan Heeger.

First album you ever bought?

The Original Soundtrack by 10cc.

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

Kick-Ass.

Your dream job?

The one I’m doing – designing other people’s gardens!

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I didn’t formally study garden design – I am self-taught.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/06/2013 10:33

People

John Pugh Grass Roots Swansea www.grassrootshomeandgarden.co.uk What is your most important piece of machinery/equipment?

My hands and business brain are the main tools of my trade, but let’s not forget my Stihl blower.

Name one thing unique about your business.

My one-to-one personal relationships with my customers – going that extra mile.

Do you monitor your competitors’ progress?

We only grunt and wave at each other at traffic lights.

We compete on quality work and a personal service.

Michelle Wake Greenwave Design www.greenwavedesign.co.uk Name one thing unique about your business.

I am working to mainstream approaches such as permaculture and forest gardening so they are not perceived as alternative or marginal.

What is the busiest time of year for you?

May always seems to be extremely busy.

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

The public are becoming increasingly aware of the fragility of the ecosystem and want their gardens to

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Little Interview.indd 79

What is the busiest time of year for you?

March to October – when it’s sunny!

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

Getting a grasp of Twitter and Facebook is key. Customers are increasingly contacting me using these methods. Gone are the days where they will give you a call – text is the way forward.

Describe yourself in three words.

Funny, hardworking, patriotic (Welshman).

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

I would have loved to be a film director and direct a big budget horror film full of zombies.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I used to play the violin.

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

Ironman – that guy has it all.

Best book you’ve ever read?

The Battle for Bond by Robert Sellers.

be part of the solution. People will become more thoughtful about how their gardens will impact wildlife and the wider environment.

How is sustainability embedded within your business?

I recycle on-site materials and planting, which is not only sustainable but helps the client’s budget stretch further. Working with the soil is important and planting is chosen to replicate a natural ecosystem.

How do you find new clients?

I find most clients come through my website. Even if I have been recommended they visit the website before contacting me.

What are your unfulfilled career ambitions?

I would like to do a garden at Chaumont garden festival.

Best book you’ve ever read?

Wildwood: A Journey Through Trees by Roger Deakin.

Your most inspirational garden?

Hannah Peschar Sculpture Garden.

What’s your favourite meal?

Most Ottolenghi recipes.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I have four nationalities: British; Canadian;

July 2013

79

19/06/2013 10:34

Jobs ESTIMATOR AND TECHNICAL ADVISOR TUFFBAU LTD Location: Grays, Essex

JOBS For full details on all jobs, please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

Call 01903 234 077 or email jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com with your vacancy.

Civil Engineering, Hard Landscaping & Groundwork Products Estimator and Technical Advisor. The offices are located near Grays in Essex. The position is primarily but not exclusively office based. The company is seeking a person with extensive experience of hard landscaping/groundworks to perform a range of duties including technical advice. tuffbau management have an open mind on the correct person to fill this interesting and varied role. For further information please contact Steven Burton by email at steven.burton@tuffbau.com with a telephone number and suitable times for us to call you.

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

HARD LANDSCAPE SUPERVISOR

ESTIMATOR

Candidates must be proficient in a wide range of hard and soft landscaping and be able to demonstrate good leadership skills. In addition it is also important that you have good communication skills and are able to organise and motivate your team in order to produce work of high quality, completed on time and within budget. If this position is of interest please contact Julia Gowlett on 01233 732 767.

The role of Estimator is to manage the whole tender process to include preparation of accurate and competitive costs for submission to potential clients. The role requires a self-motivated individual who is capable of using their own initiative to prioritise a busy workload and with the ability to contribute as part of a team. Previous experience in horticulture operations is essential and estimating experience is preferable. To apply, send your CV and details to jo.hardingham@gracelandscapes.com.

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

TEAM LEADER, LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPE QUANTITY SURVEYOR

ARBWORX Location: Brighton, Sussex Salary: £17,680 - £20,995, depending on experience

MORE PEOPLE Location: Norfolk Salary: £20,000 - £30,000

We are currently looking for a team leader to join our growing company. Previous management experience is essential as you will be required to look after a small team of staff and oversee the delivery of quality projects to our clients.You must possess a sound knowledge of all aspects of the landscape industry as you will be responsible for the quality of the works on site. Please forward a CV and covering letter to info@arbworx.com.

Norfolk and Cambridgeshire based landscaping and grounds maintenance business are looking for an experienced landscape estimator / quantity surveyor who can accurately price and produce bills of qualities for a wide variety of projects, turfing, hard and soft landscaping works as well as maintenance works. Candidates must have a good understanding of material as well as labour costs and should be able to produce examples of their work at interview.

To apply, send CV and details to info@morepeople.co.uk.

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

LANDSCAPE TEAM LEADER

Grounds Maintenance Contracts Manager

HORTICRUITMENT Location: West Midlands Salary: £18/20k

CREATIVE LANDSCAPES Location: Hartlebury, Kidderminster, Worcestershire £18k to £20k depending on skills We are looking for a competent and motivated hands-on team leader, with at least three years skills in brickwork, stone work, patios, fencing etc. Must have driving licence.This position is permanent to the right candidate. Please send CV to keith.southall@creativelandscapes.co.uk or call 01299 250 720.

GRACE LANDSCAPES Location: West Yorkshire

Andersplus Location: London & SE Salary: IRO £25-30k

Grounds Maintenance Contracts Manager sought for a young, growing company who are based in London with contracts across the south east. Vacancy ID: 18698

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

REGIONAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE

LANDSCAPE FOREMAN

LBS HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES Location: Wales and West Midlands Salary: £25k to £30k per annum plus bonus, depending upon experience Due to rapid growth, we are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced field sales representative to develop relationships with our existing customers and to win new business in the West Midlands/Wales region. Experience of horticultural products and an understanding of ornamental plant production as well as BASIS/FACTS would be an advantage, although not essential.You may be required to stay away from home occasionally with all expenses being paid. Please e-mail your CV to: nigel.carr@lbs-group.co.uk.

For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

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Jobs.indd 80

July 2013

landscaping solutions Location: South West London

South West London based landscaping company require skilled and experienced hard landscaping foreman to oversee the running of domestic garden design and build projects in the South/West London area. Successful applicant must be skilled and experienced in exterior cement rendering, brick and block laying, paving on solid mortar beds.The successful applicant will also have spent at least the last three years in a comparable foreman type position. Please apply via e-mail to info@landscapingsolutionsltd.co.uk, sending covering letter and CV. For more details please go to www.prolandscapermagazine.com and click on the ‘Jobs’ section.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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ft £160.00

nting Sundries

green waste and mixed leafage at gritting@ground-control.co.uk 4 SeasonContact shredder isus effective in all conditions Smooth and easy suction feed system Produces easily compostable BioTech™ chips

A quality simple range at sensible prices.

01359 272000 | info@baruk.co.uk

ALL YEAR

Call: 08450 www.ground-control.co.uk 773 773 The Stables, London Road, Billericay,Essex CM12 9HS www.psdgroundscare.co.uk

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

www.greenvelvetlawnseed.co.uk

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SPRING BULB D&R SIMMONS LTD FLOWERING SPRING FLOWERING BULB

Paddock Fencing is an established business specialising in traditional style steel products.

Many large estates and country parks use both the tree guards and estate fencing. The tree guards come in four different sizes for both pedestrian and livestock needs. The estate fencing is made in either two metre panels or the continuous type, which will accommodate undulating land and curves. Bow top Hand and field gates compliment the fencing, which can be made to order.

Paddock fencing now produce Residential Fencing, Bow Top and Vertical Bar.

Paddock Fencing

Tel: 01733 270580 Fax: 01733 270891 Email: ben@paddockfencing.com Website: www.paddockfencing.com

Wholesale suppliers of all types of flower bulbs, nursery stock and Christmas trees

SPRING BULBS D&RFLOWERING SIMMONS LTD

D&R SIMMONS LTD

(Established 1951) www.drsimmons.co.uk (Established 1951) 45 Market Way,

D&R SIMMONS LTD

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December 2012

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Fax: 01775 760451 / 714970 www.drsimmons.co.uk e-mail: sales@drsimmons.co.uk

D&R SIMMONS LTD

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(Established 1951)

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and ChN Suppliers of Bulbs and Ch

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

SPRING FLOWERING BULBS

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Autumn 2013 Supp SuppN Price List

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

45 Market Way, Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 3PE

Aut Aut

Nursery Stock 83 and Christmas Trees 18/06/2013 15:02 Autumn 2013 Price List 19/06/2013 15:24 July 2013

CLIMB EVERY MOUNTAIN...

Ransomes Spider remote controlled slope mowers are ideal for maintaining steep banks and inclines. With 4-wheel drive and 4-wheel steering manoeuvrability is excellent and the absence of tracks significantly reduce ground disturbance.

And as the operator has no physical contact with machine, it can be operated in complete safety.

With three models, capable of tackling slopes from 30 degrees to 55 degrees with winch assistance, Ransomes Spiders can climb every mountain ... well almost!

For a no obligation demonstration call 01473 270000 or for more information visit www.ransomesjacobsen.com FOR LEGENDARY PERFORMANCE

CALL 01473 270000 www.ransomesjacobsen.com PL/SPIDER/06/2013

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