Pro Landscaper July 2016

Concept to Delivery

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

July 2016

Seven-page special

RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

What’s cooking?

SIX HOT OUTDOOR OVENS

SGD’S PAPER LANDSCAPES

HOW THE WEST WAS WON BRISTOL’S UNIQUE PARKS STRATEGY

COVER .indd 6

With this issue

LONDON SUPPLEMENT

PAUL DOWNER Oak View Landscapes

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Creative garden lighting

by Mike Shackleton, Ornamental Garden Lighting, using

the professionals’ choice

lightingforgardens.com sales@lightingforgardens.com

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WELCOME

Concept to Delivery DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

July 2016

Seven-page special

July 2016 | Volume 6, Issue 7

RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

Welcome to July 2016

What’s cooking?

SIX HOT OUTDOOR

OVENS

SGD’S PAP ER LANDSCAPES

Welcome to the July issue of Pro Landscaper.

With RHS Chelsea done and dusted for another year, the excitement is now building for the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show.

I’m particularly looking forward to getting my hands dirty by lending a hand to Rae Wilkinson on her show garden ‘A Breath of Fresh Air’, and will hopefully be on my knees planting by the time you read this.

Before going any further, you will notice that this month’s offering includes a brand new London supplement. With a different design and feel, we hope this will be of interest to readers, whether or not you currently work in the capital. We’ve also included content and interviews with the wider industry, such as property developers and construction

Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA Tel: 01903 777 570 EDITORIAL editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk Editorial Director – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 579 Deputy Editor – Iszara Morgan iszara.morgan@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 574 Editorial Assistant – Nina Mason nina.mason@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 583 Production Editor – Susie Duff susie.du el ays .com Tel: 01903 777 578 Subeditor – Charlotte Cook charlotte.cook@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570

companies. We focus on some of the big landscape schemes such as Crossrail and Elephant & Castle, offering an insight into the thinking behind the projects.

In the main issue we are delighted to launch the 2016 Pro Landscaper’s 30 Under 30: The Next Generation. This initiative, launched last year, was a huge success and we look forward to an increased number of entries this year. Candidates can nominate themselves or be put forward by a manager. The entry process is simple; read more on page 24 and please do get involved.

As part of the Inspire section this month, we have highlighted three of the SGD Awards’ Paper Landscapes entries – these are projects that haven’t yet been, or may never be, brought to life, and you can find these on page 63 of this issue.

ADVERTISING Business Development Manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 588 Sales Manager – Luke Chaplin luke.chaplin@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 584 Sales Executive – Laura Harris laura.harris@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 580 Sales Executive – Maggie Wright maggie.wright@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 586 Horticulture Careers – Amber Bernabe amber.bernabe@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 581 Managing Director – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 589 MARKETING AND CIRCULATION Tel: 01903 777 570 Subscription enquiries emily.maltby@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Leader.indd 3

HOW THE WEST WAS WON

BRISTOL’S UNIQUE PARKS STRATEGY

With this issue

LONDON SUPPLEMENT

PAUL DOWNER Oak View Landsca

pes

COVER .indd 6

23/06/2016 16:18

The 2016 Three Peakers Ride Again team are currently in full swing with their training programmes, and the event leaders recently carried out a dummy run of both routes which you can read about on page 110. If you haven’t already done so, we urge you to support the team by donating via their JustGiving pages.

It’s an incredible feat and a way to give back to the industry – if you’re not taking part in the challenge, it’s the least you can do!

There’s so much more we’d love to mention about this jam-packed issue, but rather than whittle on we’ll let you open the pages and get on with it!

Have a great month,

@jimeljays

Design – Kara Thomas Amy Downes Printed by Pensord Press Ltd, Gwent, UK Published by ©Eljays44 Ltd – Connecting Horticulture Pro Landscaper’s content is available for licensing overseas. Contact jamie.wilkinson@ eljays44.com

@lisaeljays

Pro Landscaper is proud to be an affiliate member of BALI

The Association of

Professional Landscapers

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

Pro Landscaper is published 12 times per year by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2016 subscription price is £95.00.

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

Whilst every e ort has been made to maintain the integrity of our advertisers, we accept no responsibility for any problem, complaints, or subsequent litigation arising from readers’ responses to advertisements in the magazine. We also wish to emphasise that views expressed by editorial contributors are not necessarily those of the publishers. Reproduction of any part of this magazine is strictly forbidden.

MANAGEMENT Managing Director Jim Wilkinson Director Lisa Wilkinson Business Development Manager Jamie Wilkinson Managing Editor Joe Wilkinson Cover image:Artist illustration courtesy of Rendered Image LTD

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

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CONTENTS

July 2016 INFORM

8 Agenda How do we improve the perceived value of landscaping in society?

10

19

News Our monthly roundup of industry news including the latest updates from the Parks Alliance, SGD, APL, BALI, RHS and efig

19

RHS Chelsea A pictorial review of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2016

24

27

30 Under 30 The launch of 30 Under 30 2016

27

Let’s Hear it From COVER STORY

Concept to Delivery

July 2016

DESIGN, BUILD, AND MAINTAIN

Seven-page special

Paul Downer from Oakview Landscapes

34

RHS HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW

How The West Was Won COVER STORY Why Bristol’s green spaces helped to make it European Green Capital 2015

39

View From The Top Phil Jones fears low standards will get the better of horticulture

40

Changing Chelsea The Best Construction Award at RHS Chelsea is a step in the right direction, says David Dodd

43

Good Is Not Enough Andrew Wilson considers the PR hype around RHS Chelsea

44

A Bridge Too Far Lesley Malone on why the Garden Bridge is reason to despair

47

48

Growing Pains Your business requires constant maintenance, advises Pete Jones

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

Contents 1.indd 4

With this issue

SGD’S PAPER LANDSCAPES

HOW THE WEST WAS WON BRISTOL’S UNIQUE PARKS STRATEGY

LONDON SUPPLEMENT

PAUL DOWNER Oak View Landscapes

COVER .indd 6

23/06/2016 16:18

64

INSPIRE

53

Cutting Edge

63

56

Just Add Water David Keegan gives a Cheshire retreat the wow factor with an outdoor aquarium and oak-enclosed hot tub

60

Green Park Quality & Service Ltd maintains Green Park in Reading

Paper Landscapes COVER STORY Entries for the SGD Awards by Helen Elks-Smith, Jo Midwinter and Andrew Wilson and Gavin McWilliam

Regenerative works on the cliffs and seafront at Lyme Regis by Tony Benger Landscaping

Grass Roots Angus Lindsay asks: can we do better by our public sports grounds?

4

What’s cooking?

SIX HOT OUTDOOR OVENS

66

Outdoor Cooking COVER STORY

The latest in outdoor ovens and grills

67

RHS Hampton Court COVER STORY Flower Show A selection of gardens, our interview with show garden designer Rae Wilkinson and contractor Brian Herbert, and Tom Massey and John Ward talk us through the inspiration behind their conceptual show garden

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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CONTENTS

EDUCATE

92

Night Life Robert Webber on how to avoid disruption to wildlife through our garden lighting

93

Shades Of Grey Choosing the right products and materials is key to any project, says Sean Butler

95

Communication Adam Corrie advises how best to communicate positively to clients and the public

97

Action Plan The key to social media success is planning – Ross Hewitt explains why

99

How Does Your Garden Glow?

Director of Lighting Ltd, Lorraine Calcott considers how best to light up outdoor spaces

101 What I’m Reading Amanda Patton’s review of Italian Gardens of the Renaissance

103 Latest Products

56 NURTURE

79

Nursery News

84

80

Designer Plants Chris Deakin shares his planting scheme for a new build in Essex

82

Super Marimo Ways to show off the charm and beauty of moss from Ian Drummond

83

Home and Dry Andy McIndoe on his favourite drought-resistant plants

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Contents 1.indd 5

Just Beachy The plants that Noel Kingsbury believes are best for coastal conditions

A roundup of news from the UK’s leading nurseries

87

Factfile Ladybrook Nursery

88

Living Walls Providers of living walls offer their top plants for the job

Artificial grass

105 Latest Kit PPE, footwear

107 Introducing Woodbörd How the founders of Woodbörd are hoping to better the composite decking industry

108 Trading With Louise Kirk, general manager of Artificial Grass Direct

110 The Three Peakers Ride Again

Event details revealed

114 The Little Interview Quick-fire questions to the people that make up our industry

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

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16/04/2016 13:07 12:56 20/06/2016

INFORM

SPOTLIGHT ON

CONTRIBUTORS

Phil Jones

Andy McIndoe

Ross Hewitt

Sean Butler

Managing director, ISS Facility Services Landscaping

Leading horticulturist

Managing director, Secret Pie

Director, Cube 1994

Saving our green spaces is top of the agenda for Phil Jones this month as he discusses how we are fighting a losing battle against blandness and lower standards in the industry, using the RHS Chelsea Flower Show as an example. Find out more on page 39. Based in Woking, Surrey, Phil is also chairman of BALI-NCF.

With over 30 years’ experience in ornamental horticulture, Andy McIndoe talks us through how drought-resistant plants can be a better alternative than irrigation systems this month on page 83. Andy is a practical horticulturist and has designed and advised on numerous award-winning exhibits.

Author of ‘Savvy Social Media’, Ross Hewitt uses his in-depth knowledge of digital marketing to give advice on planning ahead when posting from the business’s social media accounts. Turn to page 97 to find out more and start preparing your next five tweets.

Sean Butler tells us why choosing the right products and materials is crucial for any project on page 93, using a recent example of an extension to a family home in Essex built by his own company Cube 1994.

www.isslandscaping.co.uk @ISSLandscaping

www.andymcindoe.com @AndyMcIndoe

www.secretpie.co.uk @Secret_Pie

www.cube1994.com @cube1994

Other contributors David Dodd Landscaper and lecturer Andrew Wilson Garden designer and lecturer Lesley Malone Freelance writer and photographer

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Contributor page.indd 7

Angus Lindsay Head of fleet at The Landscape Group Ian Drummond Creative director of Indoor Garden Design Andy McIndoe Leading horticulturist

Noel Kingsbury Garden designer and writer Robert Webber Founder of Scenic Lighting Lorraine Calcott Director of Lighting Ltd

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

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23/06/2016 16:07

INFORM

AGENDA

HOW DO WE IMPROVE THE PERCEIVED VALUE OF LANDSCAPING IN SOCIETY? The value of outstanding architecture is obvious to anyone, financially and visually; however, the value of a great piece of landscaping can be missed by those outside of the industry. Poorly carried out projects can also give landscaping a bad name. We ask how we can improve the public’s perception of landscaping…

drainage, helps prevent flooding, has a cooling effect in towns and cities and improves air quality.

So, having first determined that our industry is worth investing in, perhaps we will have unity and credibility when promoting the value of landscaping to influence perceptions of society at large.

Richard McKenna Managing director, Provender Nurseries

Yvette Etcell, LLB Director, Gavin Jones Ltd

The perceived value of landscaping in society must surely begin with those involved in its planning, design and presentation. Utilising poor, cheap materials, shoddy construction or under-resourcing will result in an under-valuation of the services provided on a financial level, and also reduce the intrinsic value of the space itself. If it is not used it becomes derelict – literally, a waste of space.

The positive value of landscaping is proven to enhance fiscal value, the environment and health and wellbeing. A recent study concluded that the impact of a good landscape on a domestic property could increase its value by 5-11%. A business park client recently told us that the landscape was one of the top two reasons for companies choosing the park as an office location. The impact of soft landscaping on the environment is well reported – it enhances 8

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Pro Landscaper / July 2016

The only way to get people to think differently about landscaping is by getting those working within the industry to change the way we speak about it. We must recognise that the skills, knowledge and expertise of our craft are priceless to those who don’t have the ability to create a natural, living place in which to relax.

A green environment, whether a flat with a balcony, a house with a garden or a park in the community, brings life and colour to an otherwise bleak and barren space. Landscaped environments connect people to the place in which they live and engender a sense of peace and tranquillity; in an increasingly busy world, people are crying out for this.

The landscaping industry needs to take control, stop devaluing our product, and be unapologetically proud to be horticulturists, designers or landscape architects. Our industry makes people feel good – how can you put a price on that?

Richard Gardiner Proprietor, NAG Solutions

The question somewhat implies that the industry itself feels that society values landscaping, but does it? The UK has just hosted the largest celebration of landscaping in the world, and Chelsea has had many hours of TV devoted to it.

If the question was ‘why do some people still expect to pay a landscaper £10 per hour?’ the answer is simple – because some landscapers will work for £10 per hour. I dare say those operating at RHS Chelsea were charging a bit more.

We are a diverse industry that serves a wide range of clients and we reap what we sow; we can accept a job for £10 per hour, but we don’t have to.

It’s a commercial decision to operate in that sector of the market; likewise, you can work for a more discerning client who is willing to pay a professional rate but for this you have to kiss a lot more frogs between each Prince.

Paul Cowell Managing director, P.C. Landscapes

I believe we have already started to improve perceptions, however it will take a greater collaborative effort to create that ‘desire’ that will lead to an increase in how we value landscaping. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 14:17

INFORM

1 Southwark Park, Quadron Services 2 Qinglongshan cultural plaza, Atelier DYJG 3 Senri-Sentei Garage Garden, RHS Chelsea 2016 4 Littlehampton Seafront, LDA Design and CH2M

The ‘value’ needs to be a clear combination of the aesthetic and the financial in order for society to realise the multi-level range of benefits their external spaces have on their day to day lives. As an industry, having academic research supporting current and innovative landscape projects that are marketed with a focus on long term sustainability strategies would help improve perception by others.

Creating greater links with the construction industry and architects would assist in making this cultural change. Academic articles are a great start and should be improved upon with a greater range of exemplar projects of all sizes, both commercial and domestic.

James Scott MSGD Managing director, The Garden Company Ltd.

The worth that landscaping services has in people’s minds clearly influences the price that they are willing to pay for them. However, this is not just about financial value for money. The perceived value also depends on how well the services satisfy peoples’ needs.

By promoting the qualitative benefits of landscaping, we can improve the perceived value to cost ratio. This means focusing our marketing efforts on demonstrating how landscaping delivers all or most of the following benefits: functionality, providing practical solutions to landscaping problems and www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Agenda.indd 9

opportunities; social benefits, enabling people to connect with others such as in children’s play areas or outdoor eating areas at work, rooftop gardens in urban areas, and wellbeing, helping people to feel better psychologically such as by relaxing in quiet outdoor spaces.

As professionals, we need to champion the full value of what we do, without allowing landscaping to become a cost-driven commodity.

Darryl Moore Director, Cityscapes The landscape that surrounds us is often taken for granted by the public. This is due in part to the attitude of architects who consider landscaping as the spaces between buildings, rather than buildings as objects in the landscape.

For a long time landscape has been neglected unless it has had a perceived value. The public realm has been treated in a functional way, and with diminishing municipal resources, the quality of landscaping has suffered. In the domestic realm, commodity fetishism has championed the interior of the home rather than the exterior.

Landscaping needs to offer something new creatively. Our Cityscapes Remix Garden project showed how one site can be interpreted in four different ways, giving the public an opportunity to appreciate how design, materials and plants can transform a space. Providing the public with opportunities to experience and enjoy new forms of quality landscaping is essential.

Leigh Morris CEO, National Land Based College (UK) For me the solution lies in communication and education. I believe the environment, horticulture and design sectors must work together to develop a coordinated and focused public engagement campaign. This should aim to better communicate the positive benefits of plants and the green environment for our health and wellbeing, biodiversity conservation and sustainable development.

We must be clear on our messages and the behaviour we are aiming to change and then evolve the key public-facing elements of our industry to support this. We also need to harness the power of digital communications, such as social media. What would Saatchi & Saatchi do to increase the perceived value of landscaping? It would produce a marketing campaign focused on changing values and behaviour. I believe it would succeed and we should do the same.

NEXT MONTH

IS THE CURRICULUM COVERED

BY LANDSCAPE COURSES AT COLLEGES PRODUCING A HIGH ENOUGH QUALITY OF LANDSCAPE WORKER? Have your say: editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk Pro Landscaper / July 2016

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INFORM

NEWS Indoor Garden Design commemorates Queen’s 90th

To celebrate HM The Queen’s 90th birthday, Indoor Garden Design has created a display at the Connaught Hotel, London. Reminiscent of a typically British garden, the display featured roses, hydrangeas and ivy, along with bright red geraniums for a spectacular bank of regal red.

The London-based company was asked to build the display for the hotel as it already holds the contract for its exterior planting.

This display was part of the Chelsea Fringe, which took place from 21 May to 12 June. indoorgardendesign.com

Campaign for National Parks launches Park Protector Awards

To celebrate and support the work being done in national parks, the Campaign for National Parks has launched its Park Protector Awards, supported by Ramblers Holidays Charitable Trust.

Entries should either conserve or contribute to the biodiversity of an area, restore the natural or built heritage, or successfully protect a region. A £2,000 bursary could be secured as well as recognition for the work if entrants are delivering successful projects, campaigns or activities in the national parks in England and Wales.

Fiona Howie, chief executive of Campaign for National Parks, said: “Throughout our national parks there is fantastic work being done by people who love the parks. This is a great opportunity for organisations to promote and showcase the projects that make our national parks so special.”

Entry is open until Sunday 3 July 2016. cnp.org.uk

University of Sheffield looking for guest speakers

Etesia celebrates 25 years in UK

Joshua Noakes, one of Pro Landscaper’s inaugural 30 Under 30s, has recently been elected as president of Landmark, the University of Sheffield’s landscape architecture society.

Landmark, comprising of over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate students, is now looking for garden designers, landscapers and landscape architects to be guest speakers for lectures on a variety of subjects including current issues to the landscape staff and students.

June marked 25 years of Etesia operating in the UK, and now being one of the most innovative manufacturers in the groundscare industry.

What started as an unknown company with just one product (the ride-on mower Hydro 100) Etesia now has a presence in 40 countries with over 40 products in its range. The UK is now Etesia’s third largest market behind its homeland France and Germany, with all of the UK operations being run in North Oxfordshire by a team of seven.

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Pro Landscaper / July 2016

It could be a great sales opportunity as students, staff, landscape architects and past students will all be present.

If you are interested in this opportunity, please email Joshua at joshua.noakes1@gmail.com. sheffield.ac.uk

President of Etesia Patrick Vives said: “The UK market is essential to Etesia, not only because it is our third largest, but also because succeeding in this country is essential in continuing to build a reputation in the gardening sector.

“Etesia’s intention is to continue its growth in the UK market, with additional products like the robotic mowers and Pellenc range of battery-powered tools. All the new technologies are under the Etesia Green Technology banner, which is where I think the future lies.” etesia.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 16:29

INFORM

The Hive arrives at Kew

Garden Bridge Trust publishes public funding details

©Jeff Eden, RBG Kew

A new installation at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew has arrived. The Hive was originally designed for the 2015 Milan Expo as the centrepiece of the UK Pavilion, but now towers 17m high at the prestigious gardens in Richmond, allowing visitors to explore the world of bees in a unique environment.

The metal structure symbolises the relevance and importance of bees to humans, and is formed of 169,300 aluminium bars. Designer Wolfgang Buttress shaped it in a way that visitors would represent bees returning to the hive, surrounded by a

NEWS IN BRIEF

wildflower meadow. One thousand modulated LED lights flicker and orchestral music plays inside, both triggered by the nearby beehive,

with the changing energy levels of the bees making each visit to The Hive a truly unique experience. kew.org

People’s Choice Award winners for Gardening Scotland Gardening Scotland, which ran from 3 to 5 June at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh, saw the ‘I Dig It’ Award for Best Show Garden, being awarded to the Scottish Prison Service.

The show garden ‘Within these walls – a journey inside’ was designed and created by men from Glenochil prison in Alloa and women from Cornton Vale prison in Stirling. It showcased the

horticultural knowledge and skills of more than 40 people from both prisons, taking visitors on a journey through the life of a prisoner.

The Sunday Post’s People’s

Choice Award went to the Dalgety Bay Horticultural Society for its exhibit in the Floral Hall called ‘Green from the Rubble’, and winners for the Pallet Garden Competition, organised for Gardening Scotland by the Scottish Gardeners’ Forum, were also announced. gardeningscotland.com

The Garden Bridge Trust has published further details of its funding. A maximum of £60m of public funding has been committed to the project, with £20m repayable as a loan to Transport for London. gardenbridge.london

ResPublica launches We Back Beauty campaign

The Backing Beauty Commission has launched the ‘We Back Beauty’ campaign to give local communities greater power to decide how their neighbourhood should look, following a report by independent think tank ResPublica. webackbeauty.org.uk

Kingston Garden Services celebrates 30th anniversary

The 30th anniversary of Kingston Garden Services was on 1 June 2016, and to mark the occasion, the landscape contractor officially changed its name to the Kingston Landscape Group. kingstongardenservices.co.uk

Q&S announces accreditation

Commercial landscape company Quality & Service Ltd (Q&S), has been accredited to OHSAS 18001. qslimited.com

- Treat Your Turf • 25L capacity covers 625m2 • 1 meter spray width • Suitable for most chemicals • Non drip nozzle valves • Optional boom cover

echneat News.indd 11

23/06/2016 16:29

INFORM

Holland Landscapes introduces Tapestry Design Studios

Chris and Paul Baker, owners of award-winning garden construction business Holland Landscapes, have created sister company Tapestry Design Studios, having decided to develop the design side of the business further.

The new landscaping design company is based near Colchester, Essex, with the ethos being to give every plant, structure and space aesthetic appeal and purpose.

Leading the team is senior designer Kate Marshall MSGD, who has been designing gardens for over 15 years.

Alongside Kate, the team has taken on additional

expertise from rising garden designer Katie Moves DipGD, a graduate of Writtle School of Design.

Katie commented: “I’m really excited to have joined the team at Tapestry at this pivotal time. It’s a privilege to be able to design beautiful landscapes for clients, knowing we are backed by the superb construction capability of Holland Landscapes.”

Tapestry Design Studios will work closely with Holland Landscapes, and the designers will also be collaborating with other landscapers and designers on new projects. tapestrydesignstudios.com

Frosts goes green with electric vehicles Frosts Landscape Construction Ltd has decided to go green with electric vehicles. The company has said that the image portrayed in service delivery, as well as caring for the environment are both important to its ethos, and it is now in the process of upgrading its fleet, starting with the London area.

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Success for show gardens on APL Avenue at BBC Gardeners’ World Live All five of the gardens built on APL Avenue at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, which took place on 16 to 19 June, received awards. The APL gardens competing, along with their awards, were: • Eat and Shelter Landscaper, MJM Landscapes.

Designer, Michael John McGarr.

Gold and Best Construction Award.

• An Urban Retreat Landscaper, Big Fish Landscapes. Designer, Olivia Kirk. Silver merit.

• The Urban Nature Garden Landscaper, The Gardenmakers.

Designer, Claudia de Yong.

Silver merit.

• The Green Connection Landscaper, Genesis Landscapes. Designers, Jean Wardrop and Alexandra Stevenson. Silver merit.

• The Man Garden Landscaper, Stone and Leaf.

Designer, Robert Grimstead.

Silver.

The coveted People’s Choice Award went to The Gardenmakers and Claudia de Yong with a landslide victory.

Other show garden awards at the show were: • Health for Life Community Garden Landscaper, Big Fish Landscapes. Designer, Owen Morgan. Gold and Best Show Garden.

• Capability Brown’s Enchanted Tea Party by Wyevale Garden Centres Landscaper, Home Ground, Equator Developments and GK Wilson. Designer, Alexandra Froggatt. Silver.

• Legacy Landscaper, Halcyon Days Garden Design. Designer, Andy Tudbury. Bronze.

Phil Tremayne, national business manager at APL, said: “The APL was honoured to support River Street Events with this year’s BBC GWL and the opportunity to build the APL Avenue. The five winners were able to build gardens that were aspirational, inspirational and most of all attainable. They highlight exactly why the APL is the primary place to go for all that is excellent in domestic landscape.” bbcgardenersworldlive.com

ARE YOU GOING?

As well as being environmentally friendly, electric vehicles will also benefit Frosts economically, with no annual licensing fee, congestion charges or fuel costs. The company has decided to lease them due to new developments being likely, and has wrapped them with images to catch market attention. frostslandscapes.co.uk

JULY 5-10 RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show rhs.org.uk 20-24 RHS Flower Show Tatton Park rhs.org.uk

AUGUST 18-21 Southport Flower Show southportflowershow.co.uk DATE FOR THE DIARY TUES 15 NOVEMBER

Sandown Park Racecourse, Surrey

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 16:31

INFORM

Pro Landscaper’s Nina Mason attended the launch of Betafence UK’s new residential range to find out what new products the company will be offering and why it has chosen to explore this market Betafence has nine production sites in eight different countries. The UK subsidiary was founded over 100 years ago in Sheffield and has appeared under various guises, including Tinsley Wire, before becoming part of the Belgian owned company.

To coincide with the launch of its new residential range in the UK, Betafence hosted an Innovations Open Day at its factory in Sheffield on Thursday 12 May, displaying an array of new fencing products that included composite fencing, a gabion wall system, and decorative metal fencing.

Simon explains that the new Durofor Classic Managing director Christopher Morris Fencing is made of WPC, consisting of 60% (below right) welcomed visitors and introduced recycled timber and 30% HDPE, with the final the new range: “This is a new market sector for 10% being bonding agent and colouring. us as a business. When we first started talking Available in seven colours, this fencing comes about this range, the perceived wisdom was with a 10 year guarantee and is designed to be that you can’t have a residential range in the UK virtually maintenance free. because the market is More in line with the company’s dominated by wooden traditional offering is the new panels. I think we’ve decorative steel fencing designed demonstrated a range that for the front of the house that will not only be competitive includes single and double gates, but also offers a number of which uniquely all have keys. This benefits over and above Decofor fencing (right), also with a traditional timber fencing.”

10 year guarantee, is available in Prior to launching its two designs, curved or flat panels, new residential products, as well as different heights.

Betafence UK mainly Looking for something to link focused on security and with its existing wire fencing, agricultural fencing.

Betafence UK has launched However, a third of its WE STARTED TO the Zenturo Super gabion wall market in other parts of system, (right) which can be Europe is in the RESEARCH WHAT MADE filled with a variety of natural residential sector, TIMBER SO POPULAR materials to make the fencing prompting the UK aesthetically pleasing, including filling it with subsidiary to explore this market as well – Sedums to create a living wall. but with a twist.

Simon points out: “This is sort of mid-range “In Europe, it is standard practice to put pricing, it all depends on what you put inside it, chain link fencing between their houses,” says but it’s very strong and secure, maintenance Simon Tucker, area sales manager. “In the UK free, and you can put whatever you want in it.” we use timber. So we researched what made Following a tour of the factory, which revealed timber so popular, along with its negatives, the size of the company’s operation on a grand such as short life span and the treatment it scale particularly on the commercial side, requires, and came across a product called Christopher explained that in terms of the new WPC, a wood composite.” residential range, Betafence UK is being modest: Whilst browsing the display of products,

BETAFENCE INNOVATIONS OPEN DAY

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

News Extra Betafencev2.indd 13

“To start with, it’s going to be on a smaller scale.

We’ve chosen to sell it through a small network of distributors aimed at installers primarily, with no plans at the moment to go direct to the retail market.”

Judging by the quality and variety of the products, this will not take long to change.

CONTACT Betafence Ltd, PO Box 119, Shepcote Lane, Sheffield S9 1 Telephone 0114 256 7800 Email residential betafence.com Twitter Betafence

www.betafence.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 13

23/06/2016 14:25

INFORM

ASSOCIATION

NEWS

APL update space. To ensure top quality design and construction, each garden received a £10,000 contribution towards the build.

Marshalls supplied all of the paving for the projects.

APL Avenue at Gardeners’ World Live The APL Avenue at Gardeners’ World Live took place from 16 to 19 June.

Check out Pro Landscaper’s news pages (p10) for the full list of winners, including the People’s Choice award. he e ardens eat red in the APL Avenue gave the public the opportunity to see what can be achieved in a small

WorldSkills semi-finalists announced Future garden landscapers have demonstrated their skills over the past month at Myerscough College, Landform Consultants, Gardening Scotland, Edinburgh, and Greenmount Campus, Northern Ireland, in regional heats for the WorldSkills UK Landscaping competition.

We are pleased to announce the 10 competitors that have ali ed thro h to the se i nal at RHS Flower Show Tatton Park: ● Jake Abell, Gardenscapes ● Jacob Botting, Myerscough College ● Aaron Byrne, Reaseheath College ● Ross Conquest, Conquest Hard Landscaping ● Josh Dow, SRUC Oatridge ● Ben Eaton, CAFRE ● Jon Latter, Conquest Hard Landscaping ● Jonathan Long, CAFRE ● Shea McFerren, CAFRE ● Craig Wilton, Dundee and Angus College.

APL looks forward to welcoming you to Hampton Court this year The APL will be at stand HC/640, in conjunction with Renson. Existing and perspective members can come down and meet the team.

A goodbye...

Donna Hanlon, business development manager, is leaving the APL at the end of June. The APL would not be what it is today without her hard work and commitment, and we send her all the best wishes for the future. www.landscaper.org.uk

efig outline

Nature and wellbeing By the time you read this, we will have had our AGM and a new chairman and committee will be in place. But we want to focus on what will be happening in just a few days’ time.

This month will be the fourth National Plants at Work

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Week social media campaign.

Our concentration will focus on the any ene ts o plants in the workplace. A vast body of research has found that plants not only keep us less stressed, but also help us to concentrate and make us more productive.

We also know that surrounding ourselves with nature helps our wellbeing. This hypothesis, known as biophilia, shows that we have a deep need to connect

with nature. Whether this means natural daylight and great views onto green landscapes, taking a lunchtime walk in the park or bringing plants into working spaces the e ect is noticea le Thames Clipper enjoying a planted make-over

What’s on during National Plants at Work Week?

From 11 to 15 July, our members will be promoting these facts around the country.

Look out for another mode o ondon ransport sho in o a hi h yin reen co ter space pop p offices plant

giveaways and more. We will also be highlighting some online se inars all a o t the ene ts o plants free for all to watch online. eep an eye on e s e site Facebook page and Twitter using #plantswork. www.efig.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 16:00

INFORM

Parks Alliance matters

© Paul Todd

assist in making the case and amplifying our message.

These will also be helpful in enabling us to leverage media requests following publication of the report.

Please send your case studies to businessmanager@ theparksalliance.org.

The alliance is looking to refresh the membership of our board. We will be publishing adverts soon with the intention of appointing new directors before the end of the year.

This will provide us with an opportunity to bring in directors with experience and skills beyond those traditionally found in the parks sector. If

you are interested, please feel free to contact us.

Finally, due to other commitments, our round-table led by Dr William Bird on the p lic health ene ts o par s has been postponed until autumn. www.theparksalliance.org Twitter @ParksAllianceUK

The RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2016 The grounds of Hampton Court Palace will once again host the a o s o er sho from 5 to 10 July this year. olo r l oral displays ill feature alongside stunning show gardens showcasing the work of the country’s leading designers and nurseries.

Visitors can buy plants partic larly at the nal day sale on the Sunday) and the latest garden products. A special family day with activities such as seed sowing, trails across the grounds, storytelling and cookery classes will provide gardening inspiration for children and engagement for the whole family.

Share your best gardening pictures to win great prizes The RHS is calling for submissions from amateur and professional photographers around the world for its prestigious garden photography competition, which is now open for entries until February 2017. This year there are two additional categories for children under 18 and a social media category, using the hashtag #RHSPhotoComp. www.rhs.org.uk

© Paul Todd

Call for case studies The Parks Alliance has a meeting planned with the minister with responsibility for parks, Marcus Jones MP, next month.

The timing is ideal, as it will allow us to brief the minister on our concerns prior to the publication of the Heritage Lottery Fund’s second State of UK Public Parks report, which is expected this summer. Whilst we all recognise the value of parks and the funding crisis facing them, we need hard evidence to convince ministers and decision makers.

Therefore, we would welcome suitable case studies (positive and negative) that would

RHS report

Evening events and open air cinemas across RHS gardens This summer season, the RHS gardens will host a range of evening activities including live music performances, romantic summer walks and open air cinema screenings.

Visitors are invited to enjoy the o tdoor l screenin s o pop lar l s incl din The Martian and Dirty Dancing during a relaxing summer evening in the garden, and are advised to bring a picnic and blanket.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Association News.indd 15

Visitors can wander around the gardens and listen to live music events at RHS Garden Rosemoor on 1, 14 and 21 July and RHS Harlow Carr on selected Fridays in July. Performers at the gardens will include harpist Susan Sherratt, guitarist David Jaggs and saxophonist Jim Prior.

RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show

Wildlife – 3rd – Water vole by Julian Cox

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 15

23/06/2016 16:00

INFORM

BALI briefing

ELCA Trend Award 2016 The schemes of four BALI contractors have been shortlisted for the prestigious biennial European Landscape Contractors Association (ELCA) Trend Award, presented to the winning contractor at GaLaBau in Nuremberg on 14 September.

As the UK’s representative body within ELCA, BALI is hosting the award, which is focusing on UK domestic landscaping.

ho

atton ar ro to ly ill o co rse be exhibiting at the show and we hope BALI members will come along and support the competitors as they build their show gardens, and come and see us on the BALI stand.

The shortlisted contractors are Bartholomew Landscaping, Graduate Gardeners, James Bird Landscapes and Linden Landscapes. Seven European judges will visit each sche e o er and 7 July, and the winner will be announced shortly afterwards.

Chelsea success BALI members excelled at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show by winning a total o edals si old nine sil er ilt e silver and one bronze. Many congratulations to all BALI medal winners.

esi ner ee estall s a ard winning Chelsea garden

RHS Young Landscape Contractor Excitement is building for the BALI-supported RHS Young andscape ontractor competition, which will take place at this year’s RHS Flower

40th BALI National Landscape Awards Judging is now underway and tickets for the awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London on ece er ill e on sale from 1 September. Visit www.baliawards.co.uk and make sure you’re there for this landmark event. www.bali.org.uk

SGD bulletin Submit your entries for the SGD Student Awards o in its th year the Student Awards are the perfect springboard into a career in garden design. With categories covering commercial and domestic student projects, the i oro sly contested Student Awards are open to all st dent e ers ello ndy t r eon oins the d in panel, which includes Arabella St. John Parker from Awards media partner Homes & Gardens magazine.

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Association News.indd 16

t dent esi n

o

ercial

o

assey

Last year, student member Tom Massey scooped both the Student o estic and the t dent Commercial Awards at the ere ony e said innin t o Awards has opened up multiple opportunities for e ha e had o o ers

he assel ospital cotherapy arden

requests to talk at trade shows and various interview requests from the press. It has really helped to get my

name out there. Clients have also been really impressed. I don’t yet have an extensive portfolio, but having my work singled out by the really helps to inspire tr st and con dence Tom has since teamed up ith e er ohn ard to design a conceptual garden for the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show in July.

The deadline for entry forms and ees or the t dent ards is st ith actual submissions due by 4 September. Students who enter e ore ly are eli i le or discounted ‘early bird’ fees. For further information, please visit the ards e site www.sgdawards.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 16:01

WIN A PICK-UP WHEN YOU PICK UP BRADSTONE PAVING WIN AN ISUZU UTAH PICK-UP TRUCK!

ONE DRAW IN JUNE, ONE DRAW IN AUGUST

To celebrate Bradstone’s 60th anniversary, we are giving UK landscapers the chance to win one of two Isuzu Utah pick-up trucks!

To qualify, just spend £600 or more on Bradstone products in one transaction between now and August 4th 2016.*

ENTER VIA THE BRADSTONE 60TH COMPETITION APP TODAY† OR VISIT

www.bradstone.com/60comp

*Terms and conditions apply. Multiple entries permitted with separate transactions. Please visit www.bradstone.com/60comp for full details. Closing date for entries 04/08/2016.

Image of truck is for illustrative purposes only. † If you do not have a smart phone, you can also enter at www.bradstone.com/60comp

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23/06/2016 16:37

PH E G A P 4

OTO

S

IA C E P

L INFORM

The

BUILD-UP RHS Chelsea Flower Show is built upon, and by, the landscapers who tackle tight schedules and English weather to bring show gardens to life

1 David Dodd and Jim Wilkinson 2 The Harrods British Eccentrics Garden 3 Matthew Wilson - God’s Own County – A Garden for Yorkshire 4 St John’s Hospice – A Modern Apothecary 5 Hugo Bugg’s Royal Bank of Canada Garden 6 The Watahan East & West Garden 7 Ann-Marie Powell with Joe Perkins, The Outdoor Room 8 Birmingham City Council’s Floral Marquee 9 The LG Smart Garden 10 Our editor Lisa, with Sean Butler 11 Rosy Hardy plants her Brewin Dolphin Forever Freefolk garden

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Pro Landscaper / July 2016 19

23/06/2016 16:44

INFORM

MAIN

AVENUE

The Chelsea Barracks Garden

The L’Occitane Garden

The Telegraph Garden

This year’s

GOLD MEDAL WINNERS The gardens that claimed the top honours at the show after charming the judges with their superb design, exquisite planting and faultless execution

Vestra Wealth – The Garden of Mindful Living

The M&G Garden

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Pro Landscaper / July 2016

Chelsea.indd 20

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 16:45

INFORM

The Modern Slavery Garden Campaign

FRESH

The Morgan Stanley Garden for Great Ormond Street Hospital

The Marble and Granite Centre – Antithesis of Sarcophagi

Garage Garden

ARTISAN

The Garden Bed

Viking Cruises

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Chelsea.indd 21

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 21

23/06/2016 16:46

INFORM

BEST of the REST Silver-Gilt and Silver medalists that captivated in all their beauty and artistry

1 The Harrods British Eccentrics Garden 2 The Winton Beauty of Mathematics Garden 3 Cloudy Bay Garden 4 The AkzoNobel Honeysuckle Blue(s) Garden 5 St John’s Hospice – A Modern Apothecary 6 The Brewin Dolphin Garden – Forever Freefolk 7 The Sir Simon Milton Foundation Urban Connections Garden 8 The Imperial Garden – Revive 9 The World Vision Garden 22

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

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www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 16:47

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20/06/2016 13:23

INFORM

BRAND NEW

30 UNDER 30 Following a successful launch last year, Pro Landscaper has begun the search for this year’s 30 Under 30: The Next Generation. To mark the launch, we caught up with Eljays44’s managing director Jim Wilkinson and director Jamie Wilkinson to find out why it was set up, what they look for in an applicant, and how you can apply.

How and why was this initiative set up?

Jim: It came out of a debate at our FutureScape event. People in the audience were saying that if you look around, everyone was 40 or older and where was the next generation? How can we encourage young people to come on board? So we decided to take on the challenge. It was a combination of us wanting to highlight the fantastic work being carried out in the sector by those at that young age, and promoting them in a way which would enhance young people’s careers within the sector.

How successful was the inaugural launch?

Jim: It was amazing, even better than we expected. We had around 130 responses from every sector in the industry.

Jamie: It was refreshing to see so many young faces in the audience last year. I’m sure they all enjoyed their evening as well.

What do you hope the winners will gain from being a 30 Under 30?

Jim: It will look great on their CV when applying for jobs – I know two or three people who have already advanced or gained new jobs from being featured in it, but that wasn’t the reason we launched it.

We wanted to highlight some of the excellent work being done, to give people a platform to talk about themselves and what they’re doing.

What do you look for in an applicant?

Jamie: The guidelines for entering are that they have to have worked within the industry for at least one year and be under

24

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

30 under 30.indd 24

the age of 30 on 1 January 2016. It’s open across the whole of the industry, to landscape architects, garden designers, landscapers, arborists and suppliers.

When is it officially launched this year?

Jamie: It will be launched on 30 June 2016. As well as in Pro Landscaper, it will be on our websites and covered in Pro Arb magazine, and you’ll also pick it up on the Friday Wrap email bulletin.

How can you apply?

Jamie: It’s very simple. All we need is for you to drop us an email and we will send you across the details for entry. It will be an easy questionnaire either for yourself or for you to fill out on behalf of a colleague.

When will applicants know if they have been successful?

Jim: The closing date will be 30 September. This will give us time to consider all applications in October, and following this we will inform those that have been successful.

When will the winners be announced?

Jim: The 30 will be published in the November issue of Pro Landscaper, which will be with readers at the end of October, and then we’re really keen on having the gala evening celebration at FutureScape which this year is on Tuesday 15 November – so put that date in your diary now.

To find out more about applying for Pro Landscaper’s 30 Under 30, and to watch the interview in full, visit our website: www.prolandscapermagazine.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 16:04

INFORM

What last year’s winners say...

ASHLEY GREEN

MATT BEESLEY

Contract manager, John O’Conner GM Ltd

Sole proprietor, Beesley’s Landscapes

To receive a commendation from an industry publication is very encouraging and it was an honour to have my achievements recognised. The event itself was a good opportunity to meet key people in the industry – a most enjoyable evening.

KAYLEIGH RHODES Sales and technical support, Boningale It was great to be included last year.

It gave me the opportunity to tell others in the industry how I feel the green roof industry is progressing and the challenges we come up against.

SAM COX Sales manager, Landscapeplus 30 Under 30 has provided a platform for shining a light on the new generation. It’s also created a good buzz and plenty of debate about encouraging young people into the industry and, from a personal perspective, it’s given me office bragging rights!

JOSHUA NOAKES Landscape operative, IPM Facilities I was extremely honoured to be selected in 2015. The 30 Under 30 program has helped me to make more connections within the industry, both in and outside of landscape architecture. It’s a brilliant opportunity and certainly worth applying for.

HUGO BUGG Director, Hugo Bugg Landscapes I was very honoured to be included in the 30 Under 30 for 2015. It is a rewarding feeling knowing that the industry recognises your achievements and hard work. It is also great to hear about other successful professionals at a similar age.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

30 under 30.indd 25

It’s nice to be recognised and good to be seen in the public eye. You raise not only your own personal profile, but also the profile of the progression we are achieving in this industry.

TOM MASSEY Owner, Tom Massey Landscape and Garden Design Being selected was an honour and a great boost to my early career. Gaining recognition from a respected industry magazine inspired trust from clients and sponsors even though my portfolio was limited.

TAMARA BRIDGE Garden designer, Tamara Bridge Garden Designs I had a great experience being included in last year’s 30 Under 30; it was a great way to see FutureScape and a really useful networking event. Lovely to see a mix of people across the industry, particularly the plant growers.

RICHARD FORROW Tree care supervisor, Gavin Jones Being nominated was a highlight of 2015 for me. To be recognised for the hard work I have put into my career is hugely motivating and the opportunity to meet other dedicated, like-minded horticultural professionals was extremely inspiring.

CRAIG HUNTER Regional operations manager, ISS Facilities Services Landscaping It was an absolute privilege to be recognised as one of the 2015 winners; to say I was delighted and proud would be an understatement. Securing the future of our industry is crucial.

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 25

23/06/2016 16:05

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Our platform Tripod ladder has a much deeper 175mm top working step than standard Tripod ladders. This, along with a hand rail to lean into or hold onto, makes it perfect for more cautious gardeners who have more or less fi xed height work. It retains all the features of the standard Tripod ladder, making it stable on uneven ground, providing easy access to many work situations both inside and outside the home. All the features of this Platform Tripod ladder make it particularly useful to those who are cautious about working with their feet off the ground.

Manufactured from welded aluminium alloy extrusions, this ladder is lightweight yet strong and has a Safe Working Load of 100kg (220lb).

Essentially for trimming hedges, topiary, bushes and trees, this ladder is perfect for use when working on lawns or uneven ground. The 3rd leg is telescopic and depending on the task, you can work face-on with the 3rd leg planted into a hedge, or sideways with one side of the base parallel to the hedge giving the perfect work position. These ladders are safe and don’t wobble because of their 3 legs. They are stable due to the wide base.

Manufactured from welded aluminium alloy extrusions, this ladder is lightweight yet strong and has a Safe Working Load of 100kg (220lb).

This ladder will perform all of the same tasks as the standard Tripod ladder, but all 3 legs are adjustable making it the most universal Tripod ladder in our range. The rear 3rd leg is telescopic and adjustable in 150mm stages. The two front legs can be independently adjusted in 50mm steps with spring loaded locking pins.

This allows the ladder to be used on steps and stairs, and at virtually any angle on quite steep slopes, yet providing a stable, safe work position. Inaccessible places such as beside ditches become accessible. Manufactured from welded aluminium alloy extrusions, this ladder is lightweight yet strong and has a Safe Working Load of 100kg (220lb).

FIND YOUR CLOSEST DEALER AT

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Workware.indd 2

18/05/2016 11:57

INFORM

Let’s Hear it From

PAUL DOWNER

This year Oak View Landscapes celebrates 12 years in business, although MD and owner Paul Downer has been in the landscape industry for many more. Pro Landscaper visited his stunning newly built premises in Colchester to find out about the history, the business and his future plans Paul, tell us how and why you first got into landscaping?

I was brought up on a farm in Berkshire.

From an early age I had an interest in gardening and horticulture. I got my first job as a 14-year-old working on a market garden, and this led to a job at a local garden centre where I got involved with the landscape side and realised my love of landscape installation.

From there I decided I’d better get some qualifications. I won places on BSc Horticulture degrees at universities but when I studied the course structure and realised that the whole of the first year was dedicated to plant physiology I wondered, “Do I see myself in labs looking at bits of plants?” I wanted to get my hands dirty.

I chose an HND in Amenity Horticulture which www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Let's Hear it From 2.indd 27

was the highest level course at colleges like Askham Bryan and Writtle at that time. The HND was a year’s pre-entry and then a three-year course with one of those years spent in industry.

Initially the choice of college was hard – my heart said Askham Bryan because of my allegiance to Yorkshire but my brain said Writtle because they really sold the college to me at the interview. The two people that interviewed me were a great influence and are still good friends today.

I loved every minute of my time at Writtle, the three years flew by and during that time I worked every vacation for contractors to get more practical experience and some beer and football money! I agree with working hard and playing hard. I’ve always been motivated by grafting and that’s what I did.

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 27

22/06/2016 14:23

INFORM

What was your first job out of college?

One of the companies that I worked at during vacation – Hillcrest Landscapes based in Margaretting, near Chelmsford – had set up a maintenance arm. The first summer of my HND I worked for them cutting grass and maintaining various sites around London. They then developed into landscape installation and construction which was my real interest. They offered me a full-time position in the March before I graduated in the summer of ’89. After four years the time was right to move on and I resigned in August 1993 and set up a new company with another colleague from Hillcrest where I stayed for 11 years. I was a director and shareholder.

How did things progress at the new company?

I oversaw the sales and contracting side but sadly most of it became about sales targets and growth figures. The one thing I believe in is getting the right price for the job. I’m more motivated by profit than I am by turnover. All I could see were overheads going through the roof, we weren’t winning enough work at the right margin to make it viable and the performance of the company dipped. I felt I was failing but in reality I was not. It was clear it wasn’t working so I resigned. The divorce from the company wasn’t part of my career plan but something I felt I had to do.

I made the decision to work with someone I knew previously, who was looking for a retirement plan and an exit strategy from his business – this meant a move back nearer home to Hampshire.

Hampshire? That’s quite a move from Colchester?

Yes – I’d been in Essex for 18 years, it was now February 2004 and although I had some very early contacts in Berkshire, that was prior to going to Writtle College in 1986. I agreed to work for the existing business on a trial basis for a few 28

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

Let's Hear it From 2.indd 28

months to carry out due diligence. I was leaving home in Colchester at five in the morning on Monday, staying with my parents and coming back on Friday afternoon. I became a part-time

THE ONE THING I BELIEVE IN IS GETTING THE RIGHT PRICE FOR THE JOB. I’M MORE MOTIVATED

BY PROFIT THAN I AM

BY TURNOVER dad and I had a real problem adjusting to that with two young children back in Essex.

As time progressed I thought, if this doesn’t work out, I’ve moved here, I’ve sold my house, I have a wife and two young children to support with the whole onus on me. I could see that it wasn’t going to work out financially and I took the right decision to move onto ‘Plan B’.

And what was Plan B? In May 2004 I formed Oak View Landscapes, inspired by the view of a magnificent oak tree in a field behind my house. I already had an office set up at home in the back of my garage, happily referred to as ‘the shed’ by one consultant that visited. I explained to him that in 2007 we won the Essex Best Growing Business Award and one of the things they commended us upon was our control of overheads from start up, and the bank thought we were fantastic. There’s nothing wrong with setting up a business in your front room or the garage!

What work were you doing?

Similar to what I was doing before but we started off slowly. When I resigned from my old company I had to sign a compromise agreement which stopped me from contacting their top 30 clients for six months. Looking back this did me a big favour as it gave me six months’ planning and set-up time, so when the compromise agreement ended www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 14:23

INFORM Oak View Landscapes was fully operational and we hit the ground running. It also made me focus on contacting new clients and building a bigger client base to start the company with.

Things went a bit pear-shaped in 2006 with the results of the ‘divorce’ from my previous company finally catching up with me and I became ill with depression and a stomach ulcer. When you’ve got depression, you’re in the gutter.

I had two big demanding contracts on the go and the pressure to deliver was on. I’d gone from working with a big company to sitting in an office on my own all day and I found that difficult. But with good support I came out the other side and every black cloud has a silver lining. We won our first BALI award for Capital Square in 2006 and also Best Newcomer, which was a little ironic because I wasn’t really a newcomer, just re-branded and clearly in much better form.

Gradually I went from two staff to four staff and today we’ve got 25.

What’s the company structure like now?

I’m MD, I have a strong senior management team in Jakki and Matthew and assistant manager William, our most recent recruit to the management team.

How do you split your work load?

The guys generally work in teams of two or three. So on any given day we’re usually working in ten locations. On bigger projects we may have two or three teams on a site.

And in terms of business splitting, how much of it’s commercial, domestic, etc?

Five per cent maintenance, 15 per cent domestic and the balance commercial.

Is your domestic work purely building on behalf of designers?

Yes, we don’t have an in-house designer. I like to keep the design separate and work in partnership with high quality award-winning designers who share our business ethos.

And your geographical area?

We cover Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, North London, North Kent and Cambridgeshire, 50 to 60 miles radius from here. We run a mobile team as all supervisors take a van home and often go straight to site rather than coming to the yard every day. We keep it flexible to cut down wasted travel time and fuel costs. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Let's Hear it From 2.indd 29

How easy do you find it to get staff here?

We don’t have a problem with it. There is a skills shortage but part of our success in recruiting staff is our reputation. I have a good history in the industry and the majority of the staff who work with me now have worked with me in previous companies. We have great standing as an employer and outstanding staff retention and that helps drive our recruitment.

How do you source new leads and work?

From day one we grew year-on-year on contacts and reputation. Then the recession came and hit us like a bus. We had a few big contracts coming to an end. We had several maintenance jobs where clients were looking at costs and decided they didn’t need so much maintenance. That’s when we started trying to promote the company,

WE HAVE GREAT STANDING AS AN EMPLOYER AND OUTSTANDING STAFF RETENTION AND THAT HELPS DRIVE OUR RECRUITMENT as well as trying to do more work with our existing clients in a shrinking market. I’ve been fortunate that I’ve always had reserves and I haven’t been in a position where I needed to earn an exorbitant salary. To this day, I still pay myself a low salary and being the majority shareholder, I take dividends. It’s the most tax efficient way to do it.Because I’ve reinvested, this year our shareholder funds will be over £1m and that’s in 12 years of trading. My advice would be to look after your business, and it will look after you.

And when you came out of those lean times?

Everything came down to price. People wanted us, there was still the work but you saw your margin drop. When the company got to about a £1.4m turnover three years ago, I felt we’d got 1 Future, current and past BALI chairmen (L-R): Paul Downer, Bob Field and Chris Carr 2 Oak View’s Capital Square project in Chelmsford won BALI’s prestigious National Award in 2006 3 Oak View’s new purpose-built HQ in Essex 4 The Galleries, Brentwood, won Oak View a BALI Principal Award in 2008 5 A joint collaboration with Deakinlock, winning another BALI Principal Award in 2015 6 Paul riding as part of the Three Peaks Extreme team in aid of Perennial in 2015 Pro Landscaper / July 2016 29

22/06/2016 14:25

INFORM

to a crossroads. We were growing, the country was coming out of a recession, and we knew it was going to take off.

I’d been looking for a business mentor/ consultant for about 18 months when by chance I met a business coach who helped to teach me about building the right team. His whole ethos is to work towards taking the owner away from the business so it can either be sold or operate without you. It gets you to work on it rather than in it. I don’t want to sell or retire so I’m still going to be involved, but it frees up more time to look strategically at other business opportunities.

So, what are the plans for the next few years for Oak View, to carry on growing?

Yes, there will be a ceiling on it, but I don’t think in any business you can say it’ll stop growing or stand still, and even if I said to you now I don’t want to grow anymore, we would grow organically. In the past three years we’ve grown by over 60% and we plan similar growth over the next three years.

Is that going to grow organically from this area or are you going to be taking competitors’ work?

We’re in a high growth area with development so we’re in the right market segment. We’re not far from London, a lot of people get drawn into the London market but it doesn’t excite me and can be more hassle than it’s worth.

The most important thing is the control of overheads and net margin because then we’ve got capital that we can reinvest and use to look at other opportunities.

In terms of size and length of jobs, can you give me an idea of what you cover?

Our main core contracts are anything between the £30,000 and £100,000 range, but we do smaller ones. Our biggest single domestic job was over £250,000. It varies, if somebody wants 100m of patio and it’s priced accordingly, then it might be a £9,000 job. We’ll do that as well.

Growth would be in the commercial areas and although there’s still austerity, there’s an awful lot of money being spent on the public sector.

We’ve just done a big project for the NHS Trust in Colchester, landscaping around the new A&E department and car park.

30

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Let's Hear it From 2.indd 30

What’s life like outside of work?

I got back into cycling for the last Three Peaks Extreme challenge. I hadn’t cycled up until the last three years, but I cycled everywhere until I passed my driving test at 17. The training was a challenge. I’m a home and away season ticket holder, long-suffering Leeds United fan, and I’m also a fan of Leeds Rhinos rugby league.

In terms of the future for the business, do you think your children will come into it?

I’m lucky that I’ve got two wonderful children.

My son is a lot brighter and sharper than I was at his age and is going to do a degree in construction project management, but I know from speaking to him over the last 12-18 months there’s a natural assumption that he’s going to come to the family business. Maybe he will go somewhere else first, then set up something that I could have an interest in.

I don’t see us not working together in some capacity in the future.

My daughter’s a bit more undecided but it’s early days as she is only 16. I’ve got a very strong bond with my children and they’re the most important thing to me so I would hope I could support and help in her chosen career path.

1 Paul at his brand new offices in Colchester, Essex 2 Team track day 2014 to celebrate Oak View’s tenth anniversary Oak View were winners in the prestigious Employer of the Year category at the BALI Awards 2015

CONTACT Oak View Landscapes Pattens Yard, Nayland Road, West Bergholt, Colchester CO6 3DQ Email: info@oakviewlandscapes.co.uk Web: www.oakviewlandscapes.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 14:26

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23/06/2016 12:26

INFORM

How the

WEST WAS WON

Bristol City Council’s parks strategy combines solid maintenance and a clear focus on the ever-changing needs of the city’s residents.

Pro Landscaper spoke to Gillian Douglas, the council’s service director Bristol is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in south west England, with a population of over 400,000 people spread out over an area of around 40 square miles. It is also a centre for arts and commerce for the region, with recent years seeing it blossom into one of the most fashionable places to live and work – not just in Avon and Somerset, but the whole country.

One reason for this is how well Bristol City Council uses and maintains its green spaces, with the city boasting over 400 parks and open areas. These range from the larger ‘destinations’

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BRISTOL’S IDENTITY IS TIED UP IN ITS PARKS AND RECREATIONAL SPACES, A FACT THAT WAS RECOGNISED WHEN THE TOWN WAS ANNOUNCED AS THE 2015 EUROPEAN GREEN CAPITAL to smaller pieces of recreational land where you might find one of numerous children’s play areas, sports pitches and so on.

It would be reasonable to say that Bristol’s identity is tied up in its parks and recreational spaces, a fact that was recognised when the town was announced as the 2015 European Green Capital. This was due, according to the award organisers, to its ‘commitment to ongoing

and ambitious goals for further environmental improvement and sustainable development.’

High standard of living Bristol is a unitary authority, which since 2012 has spent over £4.5m each year on the maintenance and landscaping of its parks and green spaces.

At a time of tight public sector budgets, this is no small amount. The council meanwhile recently made the bold – and in the current local government climate, unusual – decision to bring its parks maintenance back in house after years of outsourcing it to private contractors.

We asked Gillian Douglas, the council’s service director in charge of parks, to give us an overview of what Bristol’s green spaces mean to its residents, and why they’re such an integral part of the council’s strategy to keep people happy and healthy.

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INFORM

She said: “Our parks are obviously a huge asset, as well as a massive benefit for our citizens. They really contribute to a high standard of living, as well as to the health and sustainability agenda. We nurture that in every way we can – for instance, during our year as European Green Capital 2015, we committed to planting one tree for every primary school aged child in the city.

“Our key aim is to make sure that the parks are kept to a high standard in terms of maintenance. It varies across the city, but on average the satisfaction level is at about 81%.

We’re very proud of that.”

The team We asked Gillian why the decision was made to bring maintenance work back in house. “There were two reasons, really,” she said. “Firstly, the council wanted to devolve more influence on its grounds services to its local neighbourhood partnerships. To do that successfully, we felt we needed a flexible, responsive method of maintenance service delivery, which meant doing it ourselves, at least in the interim.

“Secondly – frankly – we needed to plan for cost savings. We calculated that delivering the service directly would offer an opportunity for less of a service impact. Obviously, crewing is a massive part of the budget. We currently employ a maintenance team of 95 people on permanent contracts, with another 40 seasonals who work for us for six months of the year.”

Bristol is split into three broad city-wide operational areas, with each of which being overseen by a manager looking after a dedicated workforce. Maintenance staff are, according to Gillian, versatile and multi-skilled, something which the council ensures by employing a range of training models.

“Grounds supervisors are equipped to deliver training on commonly-used machinery and equipment, as well as covering general health and safety, vehicle checks and risk assessments,” she said. “For more technical equipment, such as ride-on mowers and working safely at heights, we use external trainers.” In keeping with the reason for bringing the work back in house in the first place, the whole system is designed primarily to be flexible. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Showpiece spaces Given the number of green spaces in and around Bristol, the range of uses that they’re put to is no surprise. As mentioned, the smaller pieces of neighbourhood recreational land are a

MAINTENANCE STAFF ARE VERSATILE AND MULTISKILLED, SOMETHING WHICH THE COUNCIL ENSURES BY EMPLOYING A RANGE OF TRAINING MODELS central part of how members of the community live their lives day to day, whether it’s walking the dog or opting to take a green ‘diversion’ on their commute to work.

It’s in the showpiece spaces or larger city centre parks, however, that the city arguably comes into its own – as well as reflecting the increased diversity and service user expectation that the council now has to take into account.

These include the popular Victoria Park which is situated south of the River Avon, just over from Bristol Temple Meads train station, and The Downs, which is a large managed green space on the edge of town.

Perhaps the most eye-catching however is Ashton Court, a large estate located to the west of the city, dating back to before the 11th century. It consists of 850 acres of (Humphry Repton designed) woods and grass lands,

alongside a deer park, two pitch and putt golf courses, a miniature railway and a mansion.

Once the home of Bristol’s Smyth family, Ashton Court now hosts a range of visitors, including families on days out, ramblers, mountain bikers and fitness class attendees. It’s also the location for the city’s hot air balloon fiesta, a huge annual public event which sees teams from all over the world participating in ‘mass ascents’ of up to 100 balloons at a time.

Speaking of how important parks are to the increasingly diverse life of the city, Gillian added: “We want to ensure high levels of usage and participation of the parks on the part of those who pay for them. That means that we have to give people exactly what they want in terms of their opportunities to interact with those spaces.”

This is something which is reflected in the council’s parks strategy, with its emphasis on the creation of new types of areas and facilities for people to use. These include ‘natural play spaces’, a ‘network of 16 local nature reserves’ and ‘improved facilities for young people’.

It’s also imperative in reference to the city’s population, which in the last ten years has seen such growth that new wards (Central, Hotwells and Harbourside) had to be created for the 2016 local elections.

1 Victoria Park, Bedminster, Bristol 2 Eastville Park, Bristol 3 Greville Smyth Park, Bristol Pro Landscaper / July 2016 35

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INFORM

Interestingly, that customer-orientated approach also extends to landscaping itself, as well as the different types of plants chosen for particular locations. (The tender for plant provision is currently owned by the local Blaise Nursery, which also supplies around 40 other local authorities across the country.) We asked Gillian about the council’s strategy when it comes to this area of management and planning.

“We’re actually doing a lot less planting up at the moment,” she said, “at least when it comes to flowers. This is partly due to budget constraints, but also because things have changed in terms of the public’s appetite for what they want and expect out of a park.

“Nowadays, there’s a lot more residents who want to see wild flowers and wildlife given the opportunity to thrive, situated in wood and parkland areas.

“Many people would actually rather experience that environment than just be walking around a well-preened area. Again, that’s a matter of changing tastes and lifestyles.”

One example of this is Dundry Slopes, which is an area in the south of the city hugely popular with ramblers. The council’s strategy in relation to Dundry has been simply to help nurture a space in which wildlife and wild flowers (wild garlic in particular is thriving) are allowed to grow freely.

The big society Bristol City Council devotes a huge amount of effort and resources to the upkeep of its parks.

However, that’s only one side of the story, with much of the responsibility simultaneously being shouldered by numerous community-based 36

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friends groups situated around the city.

These groups’ continuing and committed involvement further demonstrates just how important green spaces are to city life, not just in terms of how the parks are used but as a point of civic pride.

What’s more, they also show how beneficial co-ordinated working is in times of shrinking budgets, as demonstrated by their relationship to neighbourhood partnerships, and even the police. The ‘big society’ may no longer be the political buzzword that it once was, but its spirit is alive and well in the Bristol parks community.

Fraser Bridgeford is on the committee of the community group umbrella organisation, the Bristol Parks Forum. He described just how

WE WANT TO ENSURE HIGH LEVELS OF USAGE AND PARTICIPATION OF THE PARKS ON THE PART OF THOSE WHO PAY FOR THEM important it is that people continue to give their time to help look after green spaces.

“There are about 100 groups around the city, all of which are very active and taken notice of by the council,” he said. The work generally involves regular volunteering sessions where people will go along and help with horticultural activities, for example planting or weeding.

“We have a direct link to the council’s presence on each site – in my local park, Rocco’s the man. It’s a very easy relationship in that I’ll just

text him and say I’ve got some volunteers coming, and he’ll leave a bit for them to do.”

The lungs of the city How much of an impact do the volunteer groups have in terms of broader political decisions being made? “There’s a lobbying element to what we do, certainly,” said Fraser. “For instance, we helped put together the parks and green spaces strategy, and were also heavily involved in the public consultation process that followed it. That’s informed a lot of the work that’s happened since.”

As well as maintenance work and input into policy, the Bristol Parks Forum also has a major role to play in the co-ordination of more strategic volunteering initiatives. These include ‘Park Work’, which helps unemployed people back to work through furnishing them with horticultural skills, and has provided around 1,000 hours of help so far. Fraser is currently involved in the organisation of a ‘corporate social responsibility’ volunteering scheme, this time involving people that have been let out of their day job to give something back to the community.

Bristol is an extraordinary and vibrant place, and this is particularly true when it comes to its green spaces, which tie the whole thing together and offer a focus for community action, as well as providing the city’s ‘lungs’.

If, as John Ruskin maintained, the measure of a city’s greatness really is to be found in its ‘public spaces, parks and squares,’ other authorities could do worse than look at Bristol. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 14:31

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VIEW FROM THE TOP PHIL JONES

Phil Jones says we are losing the battle against blandness and lower standards I have come to the conclusion that we are all fighting a losing battle when it comes to the survival of the industry as we know it.

Grounds maintenance (or landscape maintenance as some would pedantically have it) as we know it, particularly, but not exclusively, in a public sector environment, has a limited life.

It cannot be sustained in its current form and there are no solutions that are sufficiently innovative, comprehensive and cost effective that can save our green spaces. This theme is nothing new, it’s just that few if any have been prepared to accept, or further still voice the fact, that we are on such a downward spiral.

In reality green spaces will always survive where there is a will of local people who use them and look after them as a community.

Whilst a number of people try to bring some type of guardianship to the management and promotion of outdoor recreational spaces, the whole industry is actually moving, slowly in most cases, faster in others, downhill. It’s not just public open spaces and gardens either; this applies to all outdoor spaces, including private gardens.

In most walks of life, where there is excellence there follows good practice in

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associated processes. An example of this is the way that the RHS Chelsea Flower Show (nowadays ‘supported by whoever’) used to lead the way in displaying excellence which couldn’t be directly replicated, but did provide leadership to those who, professionally and domestically, wanted to be inspired.

This year’s ‘show’ appeared to be just that – a show. The whole event has been dumbed

THERE ARE NO SOLUTIONS THAT ARE SUFFICIENTLY INNOVATIVE, COMPREHENSIVE AND COST EFFECTIVE THAT CAN SAVE OUR GREEN SPACES down over the last few years, so that it appeals to the many and provides little guidance or inspiration for those championing the cause of professionally constructed and maintained outdoor spaces.

In trying to put the RHS Chelsea Flower Show into context, I have come to the conclusion that, where it was once the ultimate extreme, the epitome at one end of the spectrum versus, say, the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show towards the other end, the two have moved closer together and Chelsea and the wider public is the poorer for it. Chelsea has become a reality show, driven by sponsors and television coverage. It could be that, as with many things in society these days, the mediocrity brigade has dragged elitism down to its common level.

This happens, with less severe extremes in some cases, right across our industry. As soon as something that has been top quality is allowed to

decline, it becomes the accepted norm and the level it sinks to is then taken as the benchmark for future perceptions. This promotes further decline, sometimes in the name of austerity, and we arrive somewhere near to where we are at present.

In a recent Lloyd’s survey of two thousand homeowners, people said that the state of the gardens let neighbourhoods down the most.

Thirty four per cent of those people said that untidy gardens and outdoor spaces were the most common affliction.

This is because people generally don’t care about gardens and green spaces as much as they used to. It’s also because, as with my example of elitism to blandness through decline, people are led by example and where there is less importance placed on the quality of public spaces, so the public will follow with their own plot of land.

We are losing the fight against blandness and lower standards, across life as a whole, but certainly in the areas of horticulture that I care about.

Things change, and this is one issue that is changing and will continue to. It’s negative, frustrating and very sad, but I fear it is very true.

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

www.isslandscaping.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 39

23/06/2016 13:56

INFORM

CHANGING CHELSEA DAVID DODD

Recognition for the role landscape contractors play in the realisation of an RHS Chelsea show garden has been a long time coming. David Dodd says the inaugural Best Construction Award is a step in the right direction Firstly, I’d like to congratulate Steve Swatton and his team for winning the first Best Construction Award at RHS Chelsea this year. The positioning of the rocks and real understanding of stone in all of its forms was exquisitely executed on Cleve West’s M&G Garden and Swatton Landscape was a very worthy winner.

I was delighted to hear the RHS director general Sue Biggs say landscape contractors are always the unsung heroes of Chelsea and it is time for them to be recognised. The criteria was set and it was the gardens judged as ‘excellent’ in the construction category that were shortlisted.

This meant that hypothetically even an averagely designed garden could still win if the construction was of the highest standard.

I also think the award is important in the sense that it shows the new guard at the RHS

IT’S AMAZING THE NUMBER OF VISITORS WHO ARE BEMUSED AS TO WHY THE LANDSCAPERS AREN’T MENTIONED MORE are beginning to respond not only to the contractors’ views of recognition, but also the public’s. It’s amazing the number of visitors who are bemused as to why the landscapers aren’t mentioned more and it would be fantastic in helping to raise the profile of landscaping to the wider public if the BBC engages with it and promotes it to the television audience.

A few contractors I spoke to about the award moaned, “Oh about time too”, but come on everyone, this is progress! It’s a good thing and far more positive (and far less patronising) than the 40

Pro Landscaper / July 2016

David Dodd.indd 40

Best Construction Award 2016 The M&G Garden designed by Cleve West, built by Swatton Landscape

‘who can keep the cleanest track-way’ competition.

I’d like to see more details on the criteria that dictates the best construction. After all, the gardens are supposed to be built as temporary installations, so has this been taken into account? Is stone more technically difficult to work with than timber? Is a naturalised gravel path more difficult than paving? Water features vary dramatically from one garden to the next, but does this mean the more complex it is, the better it is? I think it’s vital that the judges are looking at the quality of finish rather than full technical construction and endeavour.

Maybe at some point it would be good to create a broader award for the best contractor.

This would encompass site set up, project management, tree planting and care, cooperation on site, health and safety and more general all-round excellence in every aspect of the build.

So is this award important to the landscape industry as a whole? What about all those contractors who aren’t involved with show gardens? Chelsea’s always being accused of being elitist and not taking into account ‘real’ gardens and horticulture. I’ve got mixed views on this because The Outdoor Room builds at

Chelsea, but believe it or not, just like all the other contractors there, we also build real gardens. This isn’t about elitism, it’s about the recognition and promotion of excellent landscaping and this can only be of benefit to contractors. If the materials are of an outstanding quality this will increase suppliers’ enquiries and hopefully sales. Excellent construction is usually the finished product of excellent design so this award should be seen as a benefit to all as long as it’s promoted in the right way.

Again, BALI had its stand at Chelsea promoting its members and talking to the general public about the importance of using a professional landscaper.

This, along with the new Best Construction Award, are both positive moves towards raising the profiles of excellence within our industry.

ABOUT DAVID DODD David Dodd has been in the landscape industry since the age of 17. Having studied and then taught at Merrist Wood College, he set up The Outdoor Room in 1995. In 2013, he went into business with landscape architect Joe Perkins to form Longview Design Ltd. David has also lectured in design and construction for over 20 years.

www.theoutdoorroom.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 13:36

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Jacksons Fencing I am just back from the BBC Gardeners’ World Live show at the NEC in Birmingham.

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Jacksons Fencing were involved in two of the show gardens that were supported by the APL, Association of Professional Landscapers. Both the show gardens were stunning, in different ways and strangely similar in their theme – helping to raise awareness of and encourage nature and wildlife in urban settings, and both received Silver Merit awards, which is just a few points off a Gold award.

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21/06/2016 10:58

INFORM

GOOD IS NOT ENOUGH ANDREW WILSON Andrew Wilson considers the world of PR, spin and hype and asks what sort of a world do we want to live in?

This year, for the first time in 23 years, I visited the Chelsea Flower Show as a mere visitor rather than as a judge or an exhibitor. The RHS treats its committee members to press day tickets and also to tea while everyone else without an ‘after 3.30 badge’ (love that name) is asked to leave the showground.

I was reflecting on the experience, free of judging and the worry of producing the right results; free of exhibiting and stressing over which medal. But, I also pondered the inflated hype that is involved these days in simply trying to be noticed.

I was somewhat galled by a piece published the week before Chelsea about black designers never being in with a chance at Chelsea – something about world domination (in garden design terms anyway) by posh white people with double barrelled names who seem to take all the glory. Names like Eberle, Pearson, Thompson, Wilson, West, Sturgeon, McWilliam, Keightley, Dunnett perhaps? Well, certainly not many posh double barrels in that lot and I’m not sure that everyone is whiter than white, eh Mr West?

Could this have been a veiled attempt at capturing the media spotlight? I’d rather it was captured purely on the basis of design talent regardless of skin colour, lineage or whether a double barrel was the main route to success.

I’m slightly concerned that as a white, middle-aged, middle-class, balding, grey-haired, well-educated guy my ship has finally sailed without me. Gavin, at just over 40, is displaying several of these traits too! What are we to do if we want to do another garden at Chelsea?

We can’t claim to be an all-women team, could we win more votes and wider awareness if we were an all-men team? Could we employ the youngest ever horticulturist (avoiding child labour legislation, of course) and grab a few www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Andrew Wilson.indd 43

I PONDERED THE INFLATED HYPE THAT IS INVOLVED THESE DAYS IN SIMPLY TRYING TO BE NOTICED headlines there? Or do we simply sit down in the office and design a fab garden, detail the construction and planting beautifully and organise a crack team of landscapers, nurserymen and planters to deliver to the deadline? Let me think – I’ve often wondered what all that training and education was about!

A rather over-sized Kenny Everett finger has to point at the media in this sorry tale who have to create some kind of narrative in order to gain viewers or sell magazines. But we are often complicit in this process of sometimes missing or papering over the craft, ingenuity and attention to detail that actually makes us successful and is the nub of inspirational design.

If as a designer, as a judge, or as a teacher, I look at a piece of good design – garden, construction, planting, product or graphics, I don’t think was this produced by a woman,

a man, a black or a white designer, a middleclass or a working-class designer (actually, can we just get rid of class in society once and for all?), a young or an old designer? I just think, thank God for some good design and can we have more of it please?

That is not to say that I don’t encourage people from diverse backgrounds to excel in this field – I teach, mentor, support and inspire a wide range of people who are interested in and wish to enter this fantastic career. There are no glass ceilings in our profession, no limitations or barriers. Can we all just get on with focusing on quality please and cut the crap?

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

www.wmstudio.co.uk

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22/06/2016 13:31

INFORM

A BRIDGE TOO FAR LESLEY MALONE

Greenwash, nepotism, misuse of public funds, loss of iconic views and privatisation of public space – yes, the Garden Bridge is now going ahead, barring a miracle, after London’s new mayor Sadiq Khan failed to seize the final opportunity to consign this monstrous vanity project to the dustbin of history where it belongs and instead has now given it his formal approval.

Outside the capital, there’s a certain amount of bemusement as to why this project has provoked such fierce opposition. After all, it looks nice in the promotional images, doesn’t it? A new bridge with trees and shrubberies and no traffic – what’s not to love? Actually, there’s plenty.

Even Mayor Khan expressed concern about the highly dubious procurement process.

Thomas Heatherwick was suggested as the designer by Joanna Lumley, the driving force behind the bridge, back in 2004. The former London mayor met with Heatherwick several

times to discuss a bridge before tendering had begun, and vastly experienced bridge engineers were then rejected in favour of a trendy young design studio.

The project has seen a dizzying escalation in costs, currently at £175m, including £60m capital and £3.5m annual maintenance from the public purse. How many real parks could this pay for? Notably, the maintenance charge will mainly cover security, rather than upkeep.

Adding insult to injury, the entrances will have card readers ready to accept visitors’ donations.

Still, it’s a new park – that’s good, isn’t it?

Well, not exactly. It will be privately owned, and although open to the public (except at night) it’s not a public space. The draconian

GREENWASH, NEPOTISM, MISUSE OF PUBLIC FUNDS, LOSS OF ICONIC VIEWS AND PRIVATISATION OF PUBLIC SPACE – YES, THE GARDEN BRIDGE IS NOW GOING AHEAD

What will be lost: trees, green space and views along the Thames walk

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©Will Jaennings/afollyforlondon.co.uk

Lesley Malone laments the last chance to halt the Garden Bridge project over the River Thames in London slipping away

rules governing permitted activities on the bridge include no games, no cycling, no exercise except jogging, no gatherings and no music. Visitors will be monitored by CCTV, their mobile phone signals will be tracked, and security staff can search bags and confiscate anything they feel is unsuitable. Not quite a normal park, then.

And it’s not really a bridge, either. There will be queues to enter during peak times, estimated to be thousands. As a route from one side of the river to the other, it will be useless – too crowded to walk across easily, and off limits to cyclists. In any case, this stretch of the Thames is well served by river crossings already: four within a mile, the nearest just 500 metres away. Essential transport infrastructure, it is not.

So neither use nor ornament, not needed or wanted; a tourist attraction at best, greenwashed to conceal the local environmental destruction it demands. Just 2,700 square metres of the bridge will be planted: less than half the size of a football pitch. For this, a beautiful avenue of 32 mature London planes will be felled, and existing planted borders concreted over to create a commercial area at the southside entrance where visitors can buy snacks and souvenirs while they queue to get in. For anyone who wants to stroll by the water, or sit and enjoy the wonderful river view surrounded by trees and plants, all the things the Garden Bridge is supposed to provide – well, you can already, day or night, without queues or intrusive security. But not for much longer.

ABOUT LESLEY MALONE Lesley Malone is a freelance writer, editor and photographer, with a focus on public space and regeneration. She is online at lesleymalone.com and tweets at @tangentials

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 13:40

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21/06/2016 10:41

INFORM

GRASS ROOTS ANGUS LINDSAY

Do we get the best from our public sports grounds? Angus Lindsay asks if managing our local pitches differently could yield greater use and income Landscaping is all about improving the aesthetic appearance of an area or facility by changing its contours, adding features, or planting trees and shrubs, but I think there is more to it than that.

In my opinion it should encompass all aspects of the green spaces we live and work in – parks, housing, open spaces and sports facilities. This last area is of particular interest as I believe we don’t manage and maintain our public sports grounds to get the best from them. Not just for the local authority that owns them, but more importantly developing the next generation of home grown football and rugby players.

The UK produces some of the world’s best groundsmen and greenkeepers. It is also true that we have some amazing sports venues in this country, and the technical support from the likes of the STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute) is world class. However, we also have thousands of hectares of local authority-owned sports pitches for public use, which in many cases are no better than maintained fields from which councils look to generate income. To get the best from these facilities we need to do more than just cut the grass and occasionally punch holes through the surface – they should be managed as sports surfaces, not just fields with white lines.

Budget cuts continue to burden our local authorities and I sympathise with their task of making the numbers add up whilst trying to

Initial investment may be costly but the long term ene ts a e sense

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There is the potential with these pitches (if maintained correctly) of 650 hours use per season = 430 games @ £60 per game = £25,800. If the local authority has 60 pitches x £25,800 = £1,548,000! It is easy to juggle figures to show how money could be generated and there is a cost to get the pitches to the standard where they will be more intensively used, but currently there seems no appetite from those who manage these facilities to even consider doing something new.

With the correct input you can create a top During April and May one of quality playing surface in a matter of weeks the industry’s leaders in the supply of sports turf equipment, Campey Turfcare, IT IS MY OPINION THAT embarked on the UK-wide Pitch Renovation tour, WE DON’T MANAGE AND showing just what a difference good practice can MAINTAIN OUR PUBLIC make. Supported by seed producers and SPORTS GROUNDS TO GET machinery suppliers, events were enthusiastically attended by sports clubs and groundsmen but THE BEST FROM THEM very few representing the biggest sector managing maintain services, but let’s think for a minute. the grass roots facilities we all grew up with.

Rather than continually cutting services, why not Why have these natural playing surfaces if invest in some of the facilities with a view to we’re not going to look after them? Sometimes generating income? Take the example of football the solution to a problem is within our grasp, pitches: lack of fertilising, inappropriate reseeding we just need to think differently. If you want and outdated pitch renovation practices can lead something you’ve never had, then you’ve got to to matches being cancelled due to muddy or do something you’ve never done. waterlogged playing surfaces. If games do get ABOUT ANGUS LINDSAY played there can be significant long term damage.

For example: the average Sunday league team playing 10 home games per season on a local authority pitch costs £600 per season for the use of one pitch = £60 per game, a total usage at 90 minutes per game of 15 hours per season per pitch. For one pitch the actual usage is probably 100 hours per season = 66 games @ £60 per game = £3,960 x 60 = £237,600 of income to the authority.

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 working as a contract instructor for Massey Ferguson in Yemen.

He gained an MSc in agricultural engineering and mechanisation management at Silsoe, joining Glendale as machinery manager in 1994 and then in 2009, The Landscape Group as group head of assets and fleet.

Contact: alindsay@thelandscapegroup.co.uk

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INFORM

GROWING PAINS PETE JONES

Constantly maintaining and re-assessing a landscape is exactly how you should treat your business, but many expect the initial build to last forever, says Pete Jones Whilst enjoying the view from my office window, the recently pruned tree in my garden is about to push its buds open in the sunshine and the first leaves are starting to emerge.

I think I have done a satisfactory job as a horticulturist, although some of the arborists among you may disagree. My intention was to reduce the crown slightly, curtail some wayward growth and redirect the tree into an improved shape to create a more manageable condition.

It occurred to me that this process is almost identical to that of restructuring a business. It’s the realisation that something has to change or that something is not reaching its potential, deciding upon a course of action and then implementing the changes.

I wonder, however, how many organisations have failed this process. They continue with a

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shortsighted view, under the assumption that they have made the correct strategic decisions, that the job is done and that constant evaluation is not essential for continued success.

I am under no illusion that my humble Sorbus will require further attention in years to come. Having tried to force upon it my preferred way of growth, I’m sure it will do its

WITHOUT CONSTANT MONITORING AND EVALUATION OF THE CHANGES YOU HAVE MADE, HOW CAN YOU EXPECT A BUSINESS TO DEVELOP FOLLOWING THE INCEPTION OF CHANGE? best to continue in its previous discordant ways. It knows no different. I didn’t engage with it in the decision making process or discuss the need for change or the reasons behind it. I simply turned up and made drastic changes without consultation – a common and usually fatal approach in business.

I had researched the most suitable way in which to provide the tree with the maximum chance of prosperity, taking into account the best practice and its specific requirements.

This was my consultation, appreciating and taking into account its specific needs while considering what could be changed.

It is no surprise that some landscapes fail given the poor treatment and mismanagement they receive from ‘professionals’. I have seen some awful examples of tree and woodland management practices that have resulted in the failures of a large number of trees. These are aligned with and have a similar impact as some reprehensible decisions I have witnessed over the years within organisations considering or implementing change.

Ongoing strategic management in all landscapes is a real consideration and one that is essential for them to reach their full potential.

This is something that needs thought and direction from the initial concept and is crucial for any tree or landscape space to thrive. In the same way, without constant monitoring and evaluation of the changes you have made, how can you expect a business to develop following the inception of change? The thought of progressing without this in mind is foolhardy. More often than not, implementing change to rectify a business issue, without the necessary ongoing considerations, will lead to a greater obstacle than the initial situation you are trying to address.

Those of us who build landscapes are fully aware that they are nothing without a suitable maintenance regime in place. We cannot simply walk away from the schemes we create; they continue to grow and mature and provide essential spaces for years to come.

Following a considered approach through consultation and with an appreciation for the ongoing need for appraisal, it is worth embarking on any necessary ‘formative pruning’ of your business. In the same way that the tree increases through the viable buds that break and produce new growth, the changes within your business should motivate more individuals to strive to make the organisation successful.

This will come with growth in the right direction, a more refined shape and continuing development and success.

ABOUT PETE JONES After 20 years in the landscape industry working across many sectors, Pete Jones is now creating and maintaining award-winning landscape solutions with LDP Ltd. He is a BALI NCF and BALI South Thames committee member investing time and e ort to improve our industry wherever possible.

Twitter: @LandDesignPete

www.ldp.uk.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 13:42

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TONY BENGER LANDSCAPING

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Regenerative work on the Lyme Regis cliffs and seafront

JUST ADD WATER DAVID KEEGAN

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Giving a Cheshire country retreat the wow factor

GREEN PARK

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PORTFOLIO

PROJECT DETAILS Project value £900k Build time 12 months Size of project 15,500m2

CUTTING EDGE

Tony Benger Landscaping carried out major regeneration works on the cliffs and seafront of Dorset town Lyme Regis

T

he landscape works took place on the Jurassic Coast cliffs of this World Heritage Site. The main road into the town of Lyme Regis, along with 480 properties and major utility pipes and cables, needed to be protected from coastal erosion – 300ft of land had been lost to the sea over the previous 300 years. In 2003 a major slip left Church Cliff Flats just 75ft from the receding cliff face. One house owner stated: ‘‘We used to go to bed with our life jackets on and even started to inflate them. My garden shed became a beach hut overnight.’’ On completion of the works this resident kindly hung a large banner for all to see. It simply said ‘THANKYOU’ and reflected the gratitude of the residents to all who had worked on the project. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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WINNER Restoration and Regeneration Scheme

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PORTFOLIO

The brief As a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Lyme Regis’s coastal erosion forms unique habitats for flora and fauna. This meant the project was a huge balancing act between the protection of property and nature conservation. The works involved: • Sensitive, timely clearance of all vegetation • Re-establishment of valuable woodland and grassland scrub habitats • Management of active landslide habitat • The creation of an access path and viewing area across the cliff acting as a link between the main car park, sea wall and town • Building a new sea wall including steel steps, piling, nailing and netting (carried out by others) • The reinstatement of 14 gardens demolished by erosion and engineering works • The re-establishment of 17 allotments.

The build The work was made all the more challenging by the extreme gradient of the site. Much of it had to be done using rope access, meaning staff had to be IRATA (Industrial Rope Access Trade Association) trained. There was Japanese knotweed present which caused further operational constraints and, due to ecological considerations, even the bramble had to be removed from site, propagated in a nursery and returned upon completion. The engineering works of piling, nailing and netting posed further challenges as structures were built on top of this to reinstate gardens.

Prior to the installation of the soil retaining net, planting pockets had to be created with compost and each and every one marked via GPS. Later, once the net was in place, the holes

were relocated to be planted through to re-establish vegetation. Much of the 1,600t of imported topsoil had to be laid over the net and on considerable slopes without causing any damage to the mesh. Fencing also had to be designed and erected as boundaries to gardens, with the same constraints.

Very close liaison was required between Tony Benger Landscaping, the main contractor and the client, the District Council. They more than met expectations through the need to design, adapt and build landscape elements that had not been used in these circumstances before. They also worked very closely with each one of the owners of the rebuilt gardens and reinstated allotments to best deliver projects which they were all delighted with.

1 Reinstated clifftop garden 2 Path from car park to beach 3 Replanted stabilised cliff 4 Oak railed pathway 5 New access to East Beach 6 Careful management of SSSI 7 Line of reinstated gardens 8 Viewing area 9 Native planting and protection 10 Productive clifftop garden 11 Views from the new path

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PORTFOLIO

REFERENCES Landscaper Tony Benger Landscaping

Web www.tonybenger.com

ABOUT TONY BENGER LANDSCAPING Tony Benger Landscaping is experienced in carrying out large commercial landscape projects, winning a BALI award for this Lyme Regis scheme and consistently delivering an outstanding service to customers.

Tony Benger Landscaping’s domestic department designs and builds beautiful gardens from the contemporary to the classical, winning them three BALI awards in the Domestic Garden category.

www.tonybenger.com

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Main contractor Dean & Dyball Civil Engineering Ltd

Landscape architect URS Infrastructure and Environment UK Ltd

Green Oak for path, steps, hand rails Smart Build

Web www.smartbuildsupplies.co.uk Plants Boningale Nurseries

Web www.boningale.co.uk

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PORTFOLIO

WATER DAVID KEEGAN Giving this Cheshire country retreat the wow factor by way of an outdoor aquarium and oak-enclosed hot tub 56

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PORTFOLIO

The brief On the first visit to the project site the clients were halfway through building a new extension to the rear of the house. The initial brief was to create a set of designs for the rear garden area that afforded more privacy, provided a safe space for their dog (Teddy), accommodated and potentially rehoused their fish and large aquarium (at that time located to the far boundary of the property, near the garage side wall and doorway to a home office), and last but not least to install a hot tub. Following successful plans for the rear garden, the clients extended the brief to redesign the front garden to complement and harmonise with the design for the back.

The location The cottage is a detached property located towards the end of a cul-de-sac in Cheshire East. The rear faces open countryside of agricultural fields and views to the Mow Cop hills in the distance. It is in the fortunate enough position not to be overlooked.

PROJECT DETAILS Project value ÂŁ50k Build time Five months Size of project 388 sq m

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Front garden Upon arrival the front roadside entrance and gate did nothing to enhance the kerb appeal of either the gardens or the house, and the existing gate was in poor condition. Equally, the sloped concrete slabs from the road to the path were dangerous. The solution to this was to design a stepped entrance and bespoke oak gate that added a quirky twist to the traditional country gate by matching the curved side rail on both sides. New piers were constructed using reclaimed brick topped with York stone caps.

The entrance path and steps were also rebuilt and moved to align with the door of the house, which was further framed with planting of Acer Grisuem to both sides, thus adding year round interest. Small reclaimed brick walls were constructed to frame the path. Copper wall lights were chosen from the Hunza range to complement both the bark of the Acers and the house brick.

Existing Indian stone paving to the front, side and rear gardens was removed and replaced with genuine diamond sawn York stone sourced in Huddersfield which, although expensive, added a quality of finish and ambiance to the gardens. Existing cobble stone edging was Pro Landscaper / July 2016 57

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PORTFOLIO

reused as it worked well with the York stone paving, and is in keeping with a design ethos of recycling where possible, along with making use of locally sourced UK products.

A new planting scheme was devised for the front beds to edge and soften the lawns, re-laid on completion of the groundworks, with low-level split-faced hazel hurdle fence installed to the perimeter, for both the aesthetic and the practical purpose of keeping Teddy safely within the bounds of the garden. A dwarf pear tree was moved from the planting bed next to an electrical pylon and replanted into the new lawn area opposite. This area was redesigned using a combination of evergreen screening and a variety of Hydrangeas, a client favourite in all its guises. Inter-planting to the lawn area formed part of the plan for a layered approach to tree planting to create a more dynamic sense of space, colour, screening, privacy and connection to the back garden areas.

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Rear garden A number of restrictions were faced in terms of what could be achieved with the rear gardens given the location of a large underground gas tank in the lawn area, located next to what would be the main dining terrace. The location of the cesspit to the field boundary also had to be contended with. Upon inspection it transpired that a mature silver birch tree to the side of the pit area was dead and needed removal. This was replaced with autumn flowering cherry (Prunus Ă— subhirtella 'Autumnalis Rosea'), a personal favourite. The solution to the cesspit was a raised platform constructed in locally sourced green oak, large enough to accommodate a table and chairs and creating a dynamic space from which to admire and immerse oneself within the surrounding countryside.

Aquarium A new living room with French doors to what would form an adjoining terrace area provided the ideal location for the fish tank, bringing it closer to the house. As most fish tanks/ponds are only really of interactive usage when you are either standing over the pond or sitting on the pond wall, the idea of an outdoor aquarium with viewing portals was suggested. By comparing internal finished floor levels with potential external viewing portals, it became clear that this could have the added benefit of being visible from sitting positions within the new house extension. Although the clients reacted very positively, it wasn’t certain how, or if, successful construction would be achievable.

Following a conversation with the housebuilder, he was sure it could be achieved. As a

longstanding friend of the clients, the builder also agreed to take on construction of the gardens. Making the aquarium work in reality was a fantastic feat of engineering.

Hot tub Meanwhile the hot tub and an oak enclosure with sedum roof was located to the end of the garden, adjacent to the garage and home office, this being the least overlooked and most sheltered area of the gardens. It also added value as a focal point from the dining aquarium terrace, and gave rise to the boardwalk connecting the main areas of the gardens. A large oak platform was built to hide the gas tank and interplanted with Acer Griseum, providing another area of recreation as well as an area to house and hide the various filters, pumps and accessories required to power the water features, all now concealed in an underground chamber. Each Acer is spotlit at night, adding a sense of drama and depth.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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PORTFOLIO

REFERENCES Garden design and planting David Keegan Garden Design & Landscape Consultancy

Web www.davidkeegangardendesign andlandscapingconsultancy.co.uk Main contractor Charles Carnall & Sons

BEFORE THE BUILD

Cliffe House, St Johns Road, Matlock, Bath DE4 3PQ Electrics Gavin Harrison

Web www.ghelec.co.uk Lighting Hunza at Peter Reid Lighting

Web www.engineeringwithlight.com Western red cedar hot tub enclosure Mike Holding at Terete Hot Tubs

Web www.teretehottubs.co.uk

1 Western red cedar hot tub oak enclosure 2 Koi carp in the aquarium as seen from above 3 Oslo Chain OS8 Copper Light, by Norlys, Norway 4 Oak boardwalk from terrace to hot tub enclosure 5 Echinacea ‘White Swan’ 6 Aquarium viewing portals 7 Original Indian stone path from house to garage 8 Steps replaced with York stone threads 9 Original garden gate 10 Original front of house path to gate www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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ABOUT DAVID KEEGAN

Turf

David Keegan is an award-winning garden and landscape designer and writer currently working on garden design projects in Cheshire, Manchester, Derbyshire, Lancashire, Wales and France. He has won several awards, including: Residential Landscape Designer of The Year 2013, Northern Design Awards; International Landscape Design 2012, APLD USA; Garden Designer of the Year 2010 and 2011, Northern Design Awards.

Web www.allturf.co.uk

All Turf Ltd

Hazel hurdles Primrose

Web www.primrose.co.uk York stone paving Johnsons Wellfield

Web www.johnsons-wellfield.co.uk

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PORTFOLIO

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www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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PORTFOLIO

PARK QUALITY & SERVICE LTD

Maintained by Quality & Service Ltd, Green Park in Reading, Berkshire, is one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious business parks

G

reen Park is 195 acres of stunning parkland that was created over 15 years ago by transforming poor quality agricultural land on a low-lying flood plain into one of Europe’s largest and most prestigious business parks. It is home to an abundance of fish and invertebrates and includes a range of existing and new woodland, as well as tree groups and trees with protected orders. The landscape infrastructure is critical in creating a unique setting for the buildings, with a topography of natural contrasts that encourages biodiversity. Quality & Service Ltd (Q&S) has been sensitively maintaining the landscape since January 2013.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Awards In 2015, with the assistance of the Q&S landscaping team working alongside Broadgate Estates, Green Park received the Wildlife Trust’s Biodiversity Award. It is the first and only business park in the UK to hold such an accolade and to date less than 20 companies have attained the award.

Green Park has also received a Gold Award in the commercial landscape category and the Jessica Cecil Award for Outstanding Contribution to Reading’s Environment in the RHS Britain in Bloom (Reading), and was awarded a BALI National Landscape Award in the Limited Public Access Grounds Maintenance category. The park was awarded the Regional Award for Best Business Park in Thames and Chilterns in Bloom.

The brief Q&S’ team of ten landscaping operatives, under the supervision of an on-site landscape manager, was given a basic brief to ensure that the integrity of the Green Park landscape was sustained and enhanced.

The brief also stipulated that they improve the standard of the external environment to the satisfaction of the owner, park occupiers and users, and to make the park inviting, comfortable and safe for use and enjoyment.

Q&S has shown its ongoing commitment to enhancing the biodiversity at Green Park by proactively and independently ensuring all landscaping personnel have received tailored training via both formal courses and in-house courses.

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PORTFOLIO The landscape maintenance is divided into four broad groups: • Road related maintenance: comprises of the central reservation and verges either side of the access roads, Longwater Avenue, Brook Drive, South Oak Way and roundabouts on the A33 access roads.

• Water related: making sure the central area accommodates changes in water level as the site is part of the River Kennet flood attenuation system. High levels of maintenance are required for elements in the valley such as hoggin footpaths, bins, benches and life buoys.

The soft landscape is maintained to create the image of a water meadow environment and river’s edge.

• Developed plots: maintaining to the agreed standards to meet occupiers’ requirements.

• Undeveloped plots: keeping sites which have been levelled and filled ready for future development tidy and managed, rough seeding to prevent wind blow and maintaining to prevent colonisation.

Q&S has also designed, built, stocked and maintained herb gardens at 100 Longwater Avenue and 250 South Oak Way which are both maintained and replanted each year. The company also turfed the summer footpaths that submerge during the winter months and are maintained from spring to autumn.

Challenges Within the park there are a number of different challenges ranging from the lake to high end business properties and a major network of roads. Q&S maintains the park to different standards and works closely with the client to achieve the best results for each area.

The areas around each building and the road are maintained to a high presentation level whilst the area around the lakeside and summer paths is maintained with biodiversity in mind. The park also sits above the natural flood plain, and Q&S has to improve the landscaping year after year.

THE AWARD FROM THE WILDLIFE TRUST IS TRULY WELCOMED AND PROVIDES INSPIRATION TO OUR LANDSCAPING TEAM - Sue Payne, managing director, Q&S

1 Longwater Lake 2 Lakeside bird hide constructed by Q&S 3 Seasonal colour at 100 Longwater Avenue 4 Longwater Lake, autumn view 5 South Oak Way, newly laid lawn by Q&S 6 Longwater Lake, view from 100 Longwater Avenue 7 Q&S holds masterclass in bee-keeping for Green Park personnel 8 Biodiversity in action – nesting swans at Green Park in May 2016

ABOUT QUALITY & SERVICE LTD

REFERENCES Tree work R W Green Ltd

Web www.rwgreenlimited.co.uk Biodiversity Peter Brett Associates

Web www.peterbrett.com

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Q&S is an independent company which prides itself on o ering a horticultural service tailored to suit the needs of every client S seeks to continuously improve service to surpass client e pectations and has successfully tendered, won and entered into ma or long-term partnerships with numerous blue chip clients.

www.qslimited.com

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PORTFOLIO

PAPER LANDSCAPES

The SGD Awards’ Paper Landscapes category allows for the communication of a designer’s ideas which have yet to find a client or an opportunity for expression. Here we highlight some of the 2015 Awards entries

CRITERIA FOR ENTERING Project statement, maximum 100 words Outline or presentation plan at an appropriate scale Up to six additional drawings which may include section, perspective, isometrics or other 3D views and design detailing Site context

PROJECT 1 Helen Elks-Smith

A

show garden inspired by the landscape of the New Forest. Helen has taken the essentials of the New Forest and used these elements to create an atmospheric, contemporary representation of the landscape.

The timber arch represents the enclosures whose wood has been an important source of timber production throughout history, with the woodland arching to form a closed canopy.

The raised walkway represents the drainage of the land to give access and allow the productive

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1 Garden mood board 2 Visualisation of the garden 3 Alternative garden view

use of the land, while the rammed earth seat refers to the cob cottages and heathland tracks.

The grassed area represents the important wetland meadows leading on to the heathland.

The New Forest is part of our heritage and consists of important lowland habitat including valley bogs, wet heaths, dry heaths and deciduous woodland. Cattle, ponies and donkeys roam throughout the open heath and much of the woodland, and it is largely their grazing that maintains the open character of the forest.

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PORTFOLIO

PROJECT 2 Jo Midwinter

1 The terrace, a large sociable space 2 Outdoor kitchen and dining area 3 Design plan: a challenging, steep site 4 Lower garden retreat

T

he brief is to provide a simple and peaceful environment from which to enjoy a unique coastal location allowing all areas of the garden to be used and enjoyed, providing pleasure and stress relief for busy clients.

The site is located on a steeply sloping site overlooking the Gannel Estuary, Newquay. The garden is south facing and is open to strong coastal winds particularly from the west.

The clients are a young couple who lead active lives and have two dogs. They have a preference for materials such as wood and concrete and a dislike of render. They view the top terrace as a multi-functional space and request artificial turf to provide a lawn surface and an outdoor activity area. The planting is a mix of robust shrubs, sub-shrubs and naturalistic wildflower-rich meadow reflecting the surrounding coast. A mown grass bowl and a wooden retreat overlooking the Gannel are both restorative places to spend time.

On the eastern side of the terrace is a fully equipped outdoor kitchen providing space for ten people to dine. The existing summerhouse becomes a useful addition to store food, drinks Riverside and a music system.

House long border summer house

group seating

outdoor kitchen

astro turf

cosy seating for two to lower garden retaining walls

apple trees pinus radiata

the bowl retreat firepit

scrub to the beach

sycamore copse

The Gannel

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Jo Midwinter Garden & Landscape Design

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PORTFOLIO

PROJECT 3

Andrew Wilson and Gavin McWilliam 1 Bird’s eye perspective looking over the new garden towards the hospice building 2 Panoramic view from the hospice towards Grove End Road 3 Entry to the garden from main hospital 4 Panoramic view of change of level on site

S

t John’s Hospice is an independent charity located within the Hospital of St John and St Elizabeth in St John’s Wood. The hospice provides specialised palliative care to more than 2,000 terminally ill patients and their families every year. Hospice care is provided free of charge to those living in and around central and north west London.

The brief required a new approach to the landscape design of the hospice grounds to give a more intimate and relaxing environment for the hospice patients, whilst also integrating the needs of the wider hospital staff, patients and visitors.

The space also had to be able to accommodate a large marquee for fundraising events.

The hospice garden is enclosed on three sides by the hospital buildings and a neighbouring dwelling, with the west boundary open to Grove End Road.

The existing site has significant level changes Existing site throughout which greatly restrict the use of the space. In addition, the garden feels very exposed, with pedestrians able to look directly into the hospice from the pavement.

The majority of the garden is laid to lawn with a selection of mature trees; as such it offers little in the way of seasonal interest.

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23/06/2016 15:28

INSPIRE

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OU TDOOR COOKING

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Cedar Nursery

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The Alfresco Chef

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Gaze Burvill

A LA CARTE GRILL STATION Size (H) 92cm x (W) 177cm x (D) 86cm Most suitable for town garden without space for full outdoor kitchen Price from £17,640 www.gazeburvill.com

NAPOLEON PRO 825 Size (H) 131cm x (W) 239cm x (D) 65cm Most suitable for larger gardens for social people or large families Price £3,780 www.landscaping.co.uk

ALFA PIZZA – FORNO DUETTO Size (H) 253cm x (W) 91.2cm x (D) 92.1cm Most suitable for medium to large gardens Price £3,895 www.thealfrescochef.co.uk

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6

Fire Magic

ECHELON DIAMOND SERIES 790I BUILT-IN Size (H) 31cm x (W) 94cm X (D) 60cm Most suitable for an outdoor kitchen Price £5,899 www.fire-magic.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 14:02

Seven-page special

INSPIRE

RHS HAMPTON

COURT PALACE

FLOWER SHOW

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SHOW DETAILS WHEN

SHOW PREVIEW

The gardens we’ll be visiting

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

TOM MASSEY & JOHN WARD

Rae Wilkinson and Brian Herbert’s show garden The Abbeyfield Society: A Breath Of Fresh Air

Tom Massey and John Ward’s Border Control garden

Tuesday to Saturday (5 to 9 July) 10am-7:30pm Sunday (10 July) 10am-5:30pm

WHERE The show grounds at Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey, KT8 9AU

TICKETS

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www.rhs.org.uk/showsevents/rhs-hampton-courtpalace-flower-show

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INSPIRE

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Designer Rae Wilkinson and contractor Brian Herbert talk to Pro Landscaper about their RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show garden, The Abbeyfield Society: A Breath Of Fresh Air

2016 marks the 60th anniversary of The Abbeyfield Society, the housing and care charity that aims to alleviate social isolation for older people. This garden has been designed for a care home to provide an inviting outdoor space.

Visitors are drawn in by the central Mobius sculpture, can wander the circular path safely and sit on the wall seats to rest and reflect amongst sensory planting. A brimming water bowl in the centre is both diverting and soothing, whilst willow trees and blocks of grasses further enrich sounds and movement. Rae has designed a sculptural handrail which flows through the central space, and other materials have been chosen for familiarity, textural quality and colour.

What made you apply to build a show garden at HCPFS in 2016?

I really enjoyed creating a show garden at HCPFS in 2015 and was asked by The Abbeyfield Society to create a show garden this year.

Rae Wilkinson

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Tell us about how you found your sponsor. Did they have any input with the design?

I had been working on some sensory gardens for a new dementia care home being built by The Abbeyfield Society. I was invited to be involved by their head of dementia innovation, and she was keen to launch their ‘Breath of Fresh Air’ project through a

show garden. My brief was to create an example of a dementia-friendly, calm and welcoming garden space.

Do you think that creating show gardens is a way of marketing yourself as a designer, and have you secured work from it in the past?

Creating show gardens provides fantastic exposure. Though I didn’t expect to secure work through the show last year, I did in fact gain a residential project.

Why did you choose Outdoor Options to build the garden?

I have worked with Brian for many

years and watched him build fantastic award-winning gardens.

His quality of work and standard of finish are outstanding. We have collaborated on a number of projects lately and a show garden was something we had discussed doing.

What’s the most nerve-wracking part of the whole process for you?

Judging, of course, although I also get nervous about everything running to schedule – and budget.

What are the main advantages of being involved in a show garden?

Creating a show garden involves every

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INSPIRE

Brian Herbert You have worked with Rae on several gardens projects but this is your first show garden together. Do you think this experience will be different?

Yes – very much so. Every project needs a fresh approach, especially show work. That comes with heightened expectation and making sure familiarity lets nothing slip through the net.

As a regular builder of show gardens, what do you think will be the main challenge of this particular project?

Most likely our lovely English summers. Last time I built a garden at Hampton Court was in 2000, so I know it and am really looking forward to the luxury of space and its stunning setting.

element of the design process from concept to completion in an intensified and magnified form, which is a fantastic experience for any designer. HCPFS is a big and friendly show with a wide visitor demographic, which makes for an enjoyable build and an enjoyable show for everyone.

What will be your favourite part of the show?

Installing the planting and seeing it all come together as a fully realised garden. That, and a glass of bubbly at the preview evening when it’s all completed.

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Is the garden or any part of it going to be recycled after the show?

The entire garden has been designed for relocation at The Abbeyfield’s Kew care home after the show, where it will provide an essential space for the care home’s residents, their families and the staff.

What is the most common question asked by visitors regarding your show gardens?

Most people ask about specific plant names, and it’s not always the ones you think it will be!

What sort of plan do you put together to make sure all goes smoothly with the build?

We always like to produce a timeline to make sure a critical path of dates for information and procurements is adhered to, in order to limit as many last minute reactive decisions as possible.

How big is the team you’re taking to work on the build of this garden, and will you personally be overseeing things?

We have produced steel work and pre-manufactured most of our bench wall off site to accelerate site progress and allow Rae and the planting team as much program space as possible. Hence crew will

only need to be two people, plus yours truly, for the first build stage.

How long will you allow for building the garden at the show?

Build is 10 days total but most of our part will happen over the first six days, after which our role is more to support the all-important planting crew.

What are your thoughts about contractor recognition with regards to show gardens?

I always think that as a route to market, show gardens work far better for designers, despite there being an equal proportion of commitment and knowledge from both, and contractors bearing far more financial risk. This does seem more openly recognised as of late, and the importance of the team bond is shining through.

How different is building a show garden at RHS Hampton Court to RHS Chelsea?

They’re completely different theatres, with one being the right side of Wandsworth.

What will be your favourite part of being involved in this particular project?

6am, hose fresh on judging morning.

Is building show gardens profitable for your business?

Profitability varies, but all of our show garden projects are most certainly healthy for the business.

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INSPIRE

BORDER CONTROL IDEAS Tom Massey, one of Pro Landscaper’s inaugural 30 under 30s, and John Ward have designed a show garden for the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show taking place from 5 to 10 July. Tom and John fill us in on the inspiration behind the conceptual show garden and how they achieved sponsorship

T

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he United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) ‘Border Control’ Garden is a conceptual show garden that highlights the plight of refugees and the desperate risks many take to find shelter. The garden is designed to raise awareness of the current crisis and encourage visitors to stop and consider their personal views.

UNHCR: ‘Border Control’ Garden

Planning and sponsorship We had our garden accepted into Hampton Court before actually having a confirmed sponsor. We were keen to work with a sponsor that really bought into the garden’s message and contacted a number of charities and organisations that we hoped might be interested. We were delighted when UNHCR wanted to be involved; they had thought of doing a Chelsea garden some years back but it didn’t work out. The UNHCR has been protecting the rights and wellbeing of asylum seekers, refugees and stateless people all over the world for more than 65 years and brought a wealth of experience and advice.

We have also been lucky to work with Landform Consultants who are building the garden. Mark Gregory is one of the directors at the London College of Garden Design so we knew him from our time there. He has an incredible wealth of show garden experience and his input and advice has been invaluable.

A number of suppliers have also been keen to get involved and bought into the garden’s message – London Stone, Crown Pavilions and Security Solutions have helped us source materials and are providing their time free of charge. This has ensured we will not have to compromise on quality whilst keeping the tight budget under control.

Designers Tom Massey and John Ward Contractor Landform Consultants Sponsor UNHCR

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INSPIRE

Design inspiration We were both very moved by the accounts of refugees fleeing conflict, violence and persecution and it was the stories of these families and what they were going through that inspired the design of the garden. Over 1m people were so desperate that they put themselves at the mercy of smugglers and attempted to cross the Mediterranean, huge numbers in unsafe vessels. Half of them were Syrian refugee families fleeing the most brutal and destructive conflict in decades – many thousands didn’t make it. But this isn’t just a European crisis, as there are accounts from all over the world of refugees in need of protection.

While many of the stories have been harrowing it is great to see such a groundswell of support for refugees and a willingness from so many people across the UK to help in some way. It was important that the garden reflected this and had elements of strength and hope for a better future.

We’re very excited about exhibiting at Hampton Court. This will be our first show garden and it’s great to have the opportunity to do something thought-provoking. The conceptual garden category provides the opportunity to challenge the idea of what constitutes a ‘garden’. It’s an interesting challenge trying to instil a conceptual idea into a 1 Visualisation of the protected inner area 2 John Ward (left) and Tom Massey 3 Visualisation of the outer area with turnstile entrance and barbed wire fence

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show garden setting – we liked the horticultural metaphor using native and non-native plants to represent residents and refugees.

People may be surprised by the concept as it’s a long way from a traditional garden but hopefully that’s what will make people take notice.

IT WAS IMPORTANT THAT THE GARDEN SIGNIFIED ELEMENTS OF STRENGTH AND HOPE FOR A BETTER FUTURE The garden A beautiful, fertile and tranquil island sits across a moat bordered by razor wire fencing. Outside the fence, struggling amongst rubble, starved of nutrients and water, non-native plants fight to survive, desperate to reach the protected island.

As visitors approach, their view is from the non-native refugees’ perspective, a land full of danger, despair and suffering with only glimpses of the sanctuary beyond. However, dispersed amongst the rubble, surviving against the odds, a number of beautiful non-native plants shine, colourful displays of strength and hope in the face of adversity.

At first glance the central island planting appears to be a traditional British wildflower meadow, but on closer inspection, many of the plants from the outer zone have made it across, integrated amongst the native wildflowers, blending in, harmonising and adding to the overall beauty of the fertile sanctuary.

Inside the garden the visitor is enveloped in a lush and beautiful oasis. But how much can this beauty truly be appreciated when surrounded by the suffering beyond?

ABOUT

Tom Massey and John Ward are graduates of the London College of Garden Design. Both designers completed the diploma course in the summer of 2015, graduating with distinction. Tom and John run their separate practices, Tom Massey Landscape and Garden Design and John Ward Garden and Landscape Design from bases in London.

CONTACT Tom Massey Web: www.tommassey.co.uk Twitter: @tommasseyuk John Ward Web: www.johnwardgardendesign.co.uk Twitter: @johnward_design

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23/06/2016 14:39

INSPIRE

THE GARDENS AT

HAMPTON COURT 2016 The RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show 2016 is set to be another phenomenal week with over 30 show gardens to be revealed.

These will be divided into seven categories, of which two are brand new for this year’s show: Capability Brown gardens, to celebrate the 300th anniversary since the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, and City Gardens to show how small urban spaces can still be incredible gardens. Pro Landscaper showcases the main eight show gardens, along with our top picks from the other categories.

CRABTREE & EVELYN THE BOTANICAL STUDIO

CANCER RESEARCH UK’S LIFE GARDEN

DESIGNER

Antonia Young his arden ill see the herita e o the co pany s odern day ision middle housing a botanical studio.

DESIGNER

Jade Goto

CONTRACTOR

Garden House Design

ra tree elyn co ined ith ith a conte porary pa ilion in the

DID YOU KNOW? The garden has been planted in tiers to represent the layers captured in the creation of a classical perfume.

PMS: OUTSIDE INSIDE FOR NAPS

CONTRACTOR e

osen latt

his ill e the rst e er irt al reality garden with a headset at its centre to allo the isitor to e perience the irt al arden where they can be alone to re ect oth ardens ill ha e the sa e plants tho h the irt al arden ill li e past the physical one.

DID YOU KNOW? Planting of the physical garden ill re ect scenes ro the irt al reality irrors ill i e the sense of the landscape stretching a ay into in nity echoin o er o ers in the irt al arden one or e ery person who has left a gift in their Will to Cancer Research UK.

A DOG’S LIFE

DESIGNER

a annister and en Donadel of EMJ architects

CONTRACTOR Landscape Associates idden ehind a c r in illo screen the arden is rad ally re ealed as isitors ent re rther alon the c r ed path leading to a large window that re eals a contorted ha el as the central feature.

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DID YOU KNOW? illo is al ed or its e i ility and it is said that this has a great symbolism in many c lt res ay a ey ho has ade the illo str ct res h rdles rnit re and rope perimeter border for the garden nds this e i ility allo s reat originality in what he creates.

DESIGNER a l er ey

roo es

CONTRACTOR

G K Wilson Landscapes

DID YOU KNOW? The garden is inspired by the sensory space at the charity's West London rehoming centre.

oincidin ith o s r st th year this arden is a space that can be shared by both dogs and their owners with the aim of inspiring people to support the charity.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 14:53

INSPIRE

THE SQUIRE’S GARDEN

THE WORLD VISION GARDEN

DESIGNER

Catherine Macdonald

CONTRACTOR

Landform Consultants lon side cele ratin ire s th irthday this arden ai s to provide suburban visitors ith desi n inspiration or their linear rectan lar ardens

DID YOU KNOW? Squire’s has exhibited at every RHS Hampton Court Palace lo er ho since it rst e an in 1990.

ZOFLORA: OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

DESIGNER

DESIGNER

John Warland

CONTRACTOR

G K Wilson Landscapes Waves of turf represent indi id al li es as the arden seeks to symbolise the unpredictable journeys of life, inspired by the lives of children, particularly in the third world.

DESIGNER

Jane Bailey

CONTRACTOR

CONTRACTOR

ycli e andscapes td

elen l s ith ot the inspiration for the weathered etal tree roots that o thro h the or shire stone a ter once seein a di er re o in a lar e old tree ro the ro nd

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he arden ollo s on ro the sho arden at helsea t is increasin in si e ro 36sqm to 150sqm. Over 1000 ox-eye daisies (Leucanthemum l are ill e planted

WITAN INVESTMENT TRUST PLC GLOBAL GROWTH GARDEN

Helen Elks-Smith

DID YOU KNOW?

DID YOU KNOW?

rnha

or shire s nat ral landscape is re ected in the aryin ro nd le els as the hills and dales steel and stone seatin area can be found at the end o the o rney thro h the arden connected y ater to a meadow.

andscapin

his arden ai s to demonstrate the variety of edible plants that can be ro n in the and is inspired by the new Witan Investment Trust PLC Global Growth Garden project that ill e openin ne t year at RHS Garden Hyde Hall.

DID YOU KNOW? There will be 2,000 plants in the 3 arden and soil will be used to construct the mound.

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23/06/2016 14:54

OUR TOP PICKS

FINAL5 – RETREAT GARDEN DESIGNER

Martin Royer

WATER

SUMMER

INSPIRE

VIKING CRUISES SCANDINAVIAN GARDEN DESIGNER

CONTRACTOR

Stephen Hall

Final5

CONTRACTOR

JDC Gardens Ltd

Final5 is using this year’s show to promote its new brand name.

GREENHOUSE EFFECT

Nature is ever present in this garden, with sedges, ferns and grasses. Boulders reminiscent of a retreating glacier are placed around a rowing boat, re ectin the nat ral ea ty of Scandinavia.

DID YOU KNOW? There is nearly 1,000 gallons of water, over 6,000 plants, and 8t of stone in the garden.

MIND THE GAP DESIGNER

Benedetta Pecorari and Elisa Varetti Five greenhouses form this garden. Three represent the basic needs for plants air ater and soil he o rth is lled ith n le li e plantin and the th represents the o tco e o the r na ay reenho se e ect

DESIGNER

Sheena Seeks

CONTRACTOR

Eden Landscape Projects Ltd

DID YOU KNOW? he rst recorded se o a greenhouse in 30AD was to grow cucumbers for the Emperor Tiberius so that he could eat a cucumber a day for his health.

CONTRACTOR

Burnham Landscaping Ltd Celebrating the 300th anniversary of the birth of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown, this garden is designed as a contemporary interpretation of his in a o s a a syste

DID YOU KNOW? The title ‘Mind The Gap’ highlights the gap between the contemporary interpretation of the garden and Brown’s own creative vision.

JOURNEY LATIN AMERICA’S INCA GARDEN

YOUTH WORKZ GARDEN

DESIGNER

DESIGNER

CONTRACTOR

CONTRACTOR

Jennifer Jones

ony

Surrey Hills Landscaping three tiered terrace hidden behind tropical plants, intricate dry stone walling, and the so nd o allin ater re ect the garden’s inspiration of the ancient Inca civilisation of Peru, who were pioneers in horticulture.

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ony

DID YOU KNOW? The garden will have some traditional Inca crops along its terraces including quinoa, corn and potato, as the Incas would have grown along the terraces at Machu Picchu.

CITY

WORLD

DID YOU KNOW?

CAPABILITY BROWN

CONCEPTUAL

Stemming from Final5 clients referring to their gardens as a retreat, this design is based on a small urban garden of a modern terraced house, occupied by a young couple working long hours.

a sta a sta

This garden is designed for young people as a space to relax in between lectures, featuring street art mixed in with plants that would thrive in a coastal environment.

DID YOU KNOW? Most of the materials used have been recycled, such as pallets for the walls, and have been made by young people who have committed crimes in the community.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 14:56

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NURTURE

NURSERY NEWS Johnsons of Whixley launches horticulture course for landscape architects Johnsons of Whixley is offering landscape architects the opportunity to gain practical skills in horticulture. The course is open to all levels, from graduates and junior architects to directors and partners working across the UK. The in-depth full training day will be led

by Johnsons’ production manager Ian Nelson who has 40 years’ experience in the industry.

He said: “After receiving feedback from clients we decided to set up training days that cater for landscape architects’ specific needs, and to drive up their skill levels in horticulture. The course, which is taught in a class of around ten people, presents a great opportunity to learn about the processes behind growing plants and the best fit for projects.”

There will be three sessions on 23 June, 14 July and 28 July from 10am to 4pm at the head office in North Yorkshire. To book, please contact Tony Coles on tonyc@ nurserymen.co.uk or call 01423 332 312. www.nurserymen.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Nursery News.indd 79

Hillier Nurseries awarded Gold for 71st consecutive year with Sarah Eberle Hillier Nurseries has secured its status as RHS Chelsea’s most successful exhibitor after receiving its 71st Gold Medal at the flower show this year.

Jim Hillier, account manager at Hillier Nurseries, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that it’s a Gold. Everyone at Hillier has worked so hard for this result over months and months, and we could not be any prouder or more delighted.”

Sarah Eberle designed Hillier’s exhibit and has officially won Gold Medals in more categories than any other designer in the history of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

She said: “I am absolutely over the moon – relieved and elated – to have won Gold with my first Chelsea design for Hillier.

“Hillier has been such a huge part of my life and career that it is totally fitting that I have reached the full set of Chelsea Golds through working with them.” www.hilliernurseries.co.uk

Palmstead announces soft landscape workshop Palmstead’s annual soft landscape workshop will be held on 21 September and will focus on the health benefits of plants, and how certain plants can enhance human health while others cause sickness.

Nick Coslett, marketing manager at Palmstead, said: “We are excited about our soft landscape workshop in September – health and plants are high on everybody’s agenda this year.

“Designers such as Jekka McVicar and the ‘Greening Grey Britain’ campaign championed the topic at RHS Chelsea and really stimulated a good debate on garden design and harnessing plants for health. We want to examine this debate fully and champion smart horticulture which can make urban life better for all.” www.palmstead.co.uk

Gavin Jones Ltd acquires Clifton Nurseries (Holdings) Ltd

Gavin Jones, the award-winning landscape, garden design, construction and maintenance company, is delighted to announce that it has acquired Clifton Nurseries.

Will Clark, managing director of Gavin Jones said: “The acquisition of Clifton Nurseries provides us with an extraordinary opportunity to invest in a unique horticultural business with a remarkable heritage. It has a distinctive offering and we are thrilled to add it to the Gavin Jones portfolio, and we believe that there is great synergy between the two companies.”

Clifton Nurseries has an extensive and loyal client base, and has occupied the same site in Little Venice since 1851. Prior to the sale, Clifton Nurseries was owned by the Rothschild family. www.gavinjones.co.uk

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NURSERY NEWS! editor@pro-landscaper.co.uk

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Pro Landscaper / July 2016 79

23/06/2016 14:21

NURTURE

Designer PLANTS Plant list • Lavandula angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ • Buxus sempervirens • Astrantia major ‘Ruby Wedding’ • Deschampsia ‘Northern Lights’ • Prunus laurocerasus ‘Otto Luyken’ • Stipa gigantea and Stipa tenuissima • Miscanthus sinensis ‘Gracillimus’ • Echinacea purpurea • Verbena bonariensis • Heuchera ‘Marmalade’ • Dryopteris affinis

Christopher Deakin, one half of Deakinlock Garden Design, describes the planting scheme for a contemporary new build in Essex that posed a series of challenges

One of the briefs for this barn garden in Essex was to create a sense of separation and differentiation between its terraced areas, without total enclosure so that panoramic views of the garden and arable landscape beyond were maintained. The planting should be light and textural, but the main terrace faces south and therefore plants in this area would need to be tolerant to receiving a lot of direct sunlight.

The core group of plants throughout the main terrace scheme were grasses, as they 80

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Designer plants.indd 80

provide quick growth and height without being ‘solid’. Grasses such as Deschampsia and Miscanthus would move in the breeze and help filter the wind, creating a gentle sound. Plants such as Cirsium and Verbena were drifted through the planting so that flowers could provide strong colour just above the grasses. At a lower level, Astrantia did the same with its lovely star-shaped flowers seeming to float above the lower planting, providing threads and drifts of seasonal colour. Taller plants such as Stipa gigantea were also positioned to act as pivot points within the planting. An umbrella pruned Acer was positioned just off centre at the front edge of the main terrace to provide a striking architectural focus.

The idea with the planting scheme was to have the maintenance focused on two main

points in the year: the spring cut down and the autumn tidy. Grasses like Miscanthus are cut down in March ready for their new growth and plants such as Verbena are cut back to tidy in autumn. A slow release fertiliser is applied each year in autumn and spring.

ABOUT DEAKINLOCK Deakinlock is located just outside of Bungay in Su olk. It was founded by Christopher Deakin and Jason Lock who create beautiful gardens for clients across Norfolk, Su olk, Cambridgeshire and sse . he company has won several awards including the BALI National Landscape Award Winner in 1 , and several gold medals at the HS Chelsea Flower Show.

01986 893480; info@deakinlock.co.uk www.deakinlock.co.uk

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22/06/2016 13:37

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23/06/2016 13:07

NURTURE

Ian Drummond discusses why the Marimo Moss Ball and the Japanese trend of spherical plants can be used to show off the charm and beauty of moss

M

arimo Moss Balls are a rare form of algae – actually, they’re not even moss at all. There’s no central stone within the algae and no starting point, yet the algae radiates from the centre, slowly building up over time – only 5mm per year, but they live for up to 100 years.

They originate from fresh water lakes in Japan, Australia, Iceland and Scotland. Water is essential for them, they can’t survive without it, but placed within a ‘plant aquarium’, they have a very mysterious, other-worldly quality.

Folklore says it originated from two lovers who wanted nothing more than to be together.

THE ALGAE RADIATES FROM THE CENTRE, SLOWLY BUILDING UP OVER TIME When this love was forbidden to them, they fell into the water, and their hearts became Marimo balls. Because of this, Marimo are said to bring your heart’s desire to both giver and receiver.

Care is surprisingly straightforward, just be careful to keep them where they will receive low to medium indirect light – also remember that glass intensifies direct sunlight, so err on the side of caution here.

SUPER MARIMO Ian Drummond

Change water once every two weeks using regular tap water. If you’re thinking of adding Marimo to an aquarium containing fish, go ahead – they co-exist very well with fish and naturally absorb toxic nitrates, so they keep the water clean.

The spherical mode exists outside water with Kokedama, a Japanese trend derived from Bonsai that first spread to the Netherlands, before moving to the US and then arriving here.

Kokedama literally means ‘moss ball’ and is the

practice of removing the root system from its container, encasing it within a spherical mudcake before wrapping in moss and securing with twine or cord.

Once the plant has had the Kokedama treatment, they are at their most beautiful when displayed, suspended in the air from fine wires, although they perch beautifully on

shelves with just a little support to keep them perfectly straight.

Any number of plants are suitable for this treatment: ferns, orchids and succulents are particularly ideal, but I think they are utterly beautiful with small scale architectural plants, just to add to the theatre.

Like the Marimo, keep direct light to a minimum, otherwise the moss surrounding the root ball will start to brown, and ideally water by submerging in a bucket of water for five to ten minutes.

Moss is an object of beauty in itself and can be so much more than just a functional planting accompaniment – with the right treatment and in the right context, it can even be the main event.

ABOUT IAN DRUMMOND Ian Drummond is the creative director of Indoor Garden Design, Europe’s leading interior landscape design company. Based in Highgate, north London, IGD has been bringing nature into offices for over 40 years.

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22/06/2016 13:39

NURTURE

Parched or sun-baked, these heat-lovers still come up smiling. Andy McIndoe picks his favourite drought-resistant plants

E

ven if winter is wet and summer is unsettled, drought conditions prevail at some point. Extremes of weather seem to have become a feature of recent years and we need to plant accordingly.

This is particularly important on shallow and free draining soils and areas where rainfall is lower. Of course in garden situations it may be possible to install a simple irrigation system; many garden owners seem to think it is an essential. Even on commercial projects it may be realistic to install porous pipe or a temporary system while plants get established. Ideally the plants fend for themselves in the long term; without irrigation roots go deep in search of water.

Soil preparation and mulching Even if choosing drought resistant plants, good soil preparation ensures that roots grow down easily in search of water. Incorporating organic matter naturally helps with moisture and nutrient retention. Digging in recycled green waste or well-rotted manure is essential to improve the water holding capacity down at the roots.

Mulching the soil surface with chipped bark helps to keep the soil cool and retain moisture.

It must only be applied when the soil is moist, on level ground, and to sufficient depth; thin coatings are totally ineffective. It may impede plant growth around more fragile subjects.

Sedum ‘Herbstfreude’

Cistus x hybridus

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HOME AND DRY

Andy McIndoe

Salvia x jamensis ‘Hot Lips’

Santolina rosmarinifolia ‘Primrose Gem’

OFTEN OVERLOOKED, ABELIA X GRANDIFLORA IS ONE OF THE MOST DROUGHT RESISTANT SHRUBS Planting for dry conditions There is no shortage of plants that thrive in drought conditions. Silver foliage subjects such as Santolina chamaecyparissus and Brachyglottis ‘Sunshine’ are obvious choices. They are tolerant of exposed conditions, including salt laden winds.

Santolina rosmarinifolia ‘Primrose Gem’ is worth seeking out for its soft sulphur button flowers. It looks great against pebbles and gravel.

The woody herbs, thyme, rosemary and sage are perfect in dry situations and are tough, undemanding plants. Closely related, woody salvias have small aromatic leaves and a long succession of brightly coloured flowers through summer and autumn. They can be very brittle as young plants and show little signs of life in winter.

However, they are real survivors in mild regions and love dry soil. Salvia x jamensis ‘Hot Lips’, with its small scarlet and white flowers, is deservedly one of the most popular.

Cistus, the sun roses, are well adapted to drought with their leathery or sticky dark green foliage and a long succession of white or pink flowers in early summer. Cistus x hybridus is the

Abelia x grandiflora ‘Francis Mason’

hardiest and most successful in commercial landscape schemes. In mid-summer this mounded shrub is smothered in shimmering white, golden centred blooms. Unlike other cistus this one responds well to clipping after flowering.

Often overlooked, Abelia x grandiflora is regarded as one of the most drought resistant shrubs. Its arching stems and small, shining leaves form a large rounded shrub with clusters of pink, trumpet-shaped flowers in autumn. The pink calyces behind the flowers persist after the flowers have faded.

Many perennials also tolerate drought surprisingly well. The soft foliage and delicate blooms of herbaceous geraniums combine well with the lime green frothy flowers of Alchemilla mollis, both are a wonderful contrast to the spiky foliage and flowers of eryngiums.

ABOUT ANDY MCINDOE Andy McIndoe is a practical horticulturist with more than 30 years’ experience in ornamental horticulture.

He has designed and advised on gardens of all sizes and has been responsible for 25 Gold Medal winning exhibits at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

www.andymcindoe.com Follow @AndyMcIndoe on twitter

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NURTURE

Howling gales, salty winds and the poorest of soils – Noel Kingsbury advises on the best plants for conditions on the coast

W

e do like to be beside the seaside, but what do we see when we get there? A lot of interesting architecture for sure – indeed Britain’s heritage of late 19th century seaside architecture includes some of our very finest flights of constructional fancy.

Whilst larger scale landscape design never really matched the buildings for bold experimentation, there has always been a tradition of growing exotic plants in coastal parks and gardens.

More recent public coastal planting has tended to be rather formulaic, with a limited range of wind and salt proof species being used again and again, often as a backdrop for traditional summer bedding. Oddly, given how exotic coastal planting can be, many private gardeners almost go into denial about coastal locations. The British view of themselves as ‘an island race’ and ‘a nation of gardeners’ tends to be a schizophrenic one – most private gardens hide behind shelter belts and try to carry on as if they were in a location ten miles inland.

The coast can be a challenging environment but there is in fact a very wide range of plants which can cope with wind and salt exposure, and many of them have the forms and textures which look very good alongside contemporary

infamously short-lived, a factor which can severely limit their use.

Cistus, Hebe, Lavandula, Santolina etc – all immensely useful plants for landscape and garden use, especially for sites exposed to wind. Coastal environments may be blustery and desiccating but they are not cold – Mediterranean plants can be seen flourishing in the north of Scotland. In coastal

JUST

BEACHY

Noel Kingsbury

THE COAST CAN BE A CHALLENGING ENVIRONMENT BUT THERE IS IN FACT A VERY WIDE RANGE OF PLANTS WHICH CAN COPE WITH WIND AND SALT EXPOSURE situations the fact that they can be grown in such a way that they mesh together, holding each other up in the wind and protecting more vulnerable perennials, can be a real boon. Their potential Achilles heel however is the tendency to get sparse and leggy with age and often at about ten years, start to die. This is clearly a major problem where they form the bulk of the planting.

The truth is that we have very little systematic data about the long-term performance of these plants, even though in most cases they have been in cultivation for over a century. Anecdotal and piecemeal evidence suggests that poor soils promote longevity – many Ceanothus for example, notorious for suddenly giving up the ghost, can live for decades in the wild. Domestic gardeners traditionally prune Lavandula every year – a luxury rarely feasible in the public sphere; but are there similar plants which can make do without? In an ideal world there would be someone researching into these questions.

architecture or hard landscape features. Two forms predominate: grasses and low, bushy shrubs and sub-shrubs. The grasses are still a novelty, but in most cases have very good wind tolerance, and the future for them here looks rosy. The latter include many plants of southern European origin, a region which away from the coasts we all troop to as tourists, can have some very cold winter weather, as well as many New Zealanders. Whilst the grasses are relatively predictable, the sub-shrubs are

Left: The Promenade at Bexhill-on-Sea, East Sussex, a project completed in 2011, by HTA, where the author contributed to the planting design, with a focus on exposure tolerant plants

© www.mariannemajerus.com

ABOUT NOEL KINGSBURY

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Noel Kingsbury has been involved in the horticulture industry since the mid Eighties, as a nurseryman, garden designer and writer, with features appearing in The Garden, The Daily Telegraph and Gardens Illustrated. He has played a major role in introducing the British gardening public and the horticulture profession to naturalistic planting with a series of books since the mid Nineties, four of which he has written with Dutch designer Piet Oudolf.

www.noelkingsbury.com

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22/06/2016 14:00

   

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 

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NURTURE

NURSERY FACTFILE

“

“

Ladybrook Nursery is the premier source of specimen nursery stock in the north of England

BESTSELLERS

Grasses

Ladybrook Nursery is committed to serving clients with quality, choice and friendliness to help them deliver on their promises to customers. Its range includes semi-mature trees and shrubs, conifers, topiary, herbaceous plants and grasses and ferns. The nursery also specialises in Japanese maples and native yew trees.

MEET THE TEAM

Paul Anderson, managing partner

ABOUT

Bob Anderson, managing partner

to Stockport, Manchester

A6 A5143 Lady Brook

Herbaceous

A523

Bramhall

Poynton

to Macclesfield

Ferns

LOCATION TESTIMONIALS Topiary

“As usual, your service is best bar none!”

Liz Newport, director at Wildroof Landscapes “It’s the quality of plants and the attention to detail that sets you above everyone else. Whenever we have a job that requires this type of planting, I will always come to you for it. Your service level to us as a customer is far above anyone else and always has been.”

Eric Grabham

Japanese maples

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Nursery Factfile.indd 87

“Thanks Joyce! You are by far the best and most organised nursery I deal with. Have got two more lists to send through!”

Clare McEnery, garden designer

Ladybrook Nursery, Lytham Drive, Bramhall, Cheshire, SK7 2LD

CONTACT Tel 0161 440 8060 Email sales@ladybrooknursery.com Web www.ladybrooknursery.com

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 87

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NURTURE

Living walls Pro Landscaper asked six leading providers of living walls for their top five vertical garden plants

Scotscape Urban Planters Blue Star is a hardy fern that provides great contrast with its blue/ green foliage. Syngonium has good upright coverage, while Chlorophytum rapidly propagates itself. Epipremnum aureum is a versatile trailing plant, and Peperomia adds interest when the flower spikes come out. WWW.URBANPLANTERS.CO.UK Heuchera is grown for foliage and is probably the best plant for colours.

Asplenium Scolopendrium prefers light shade. An excellent grass to use is Luzula Nivea, which produces white flowers in early summer. Acorus Ogon is easy to grow and Sarcococca produces scented flowers in spring followed by black berries if warm enough. WWW.SCOTSCAPE.NET

TOP 5

TOP 5

Polypodium aureum ‘Blue Star’

Heuchera

Syngonium podophyllum ‘White Butterfly’

Luziela Nivea

Chlorophytum comosum ‘Ocean’

Acorus Organ

Epipremnum aureum

Asplenium Scolopendrium

Peperomia caperata ‘Schumi Red’

Sarcococca

TOP 5 Asplenium scolopendium Polystichum setiferum Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’ Sarcococca ruscifolia Carex elata ‘Aurea’

images: Johnsons of Whixley

Treebox

Asplenium scolopendium is an evergreen fern that gives fantastic architecture and movement, while Polystichum setiferum provides instant coverage. Heuchera ‘Plum Pudding’ grows well in any light situation.

Sarcococca ruscifolia has simple, leathery leaves. Aurea provides a compact burst of colour year through. WWW.TREEBOX.CO.UK

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NURTURE

Mobilane

Heuchera ‘Midnight Rose’ with its dark burgundy foliage can be nicely complemented by Saponaria ocymoides with its delicate pink flowers. For a vibrant south, west or east elevation, Heuchera Fire Chief produces a stunning result.

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ROBERT WEBBER

92

Why artificial lighting in our gardens can be detrimental to wildlife

SHADES OF GREY SEAN BUTLER

93

Make sure the materials you choose are suitable for each project you undertake

GARDEN GLOW LORRAINE CALCOTT

99

How to make any outdoor space light up once the sun goes down

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EDUCATE

NIGHT LIFE

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EDUCATE

ROB’S TOP TIPS

1

UV light attracts wildlife. LEDs emit hardly any UV light, so always specify and fit LED lamps. There are some great retro fit LED lamps available now that can be fitted in existing external fittings. This keeps external light colour the same.

2

When lighting trees from the ground, think about using effects that leave certain areas of the tree canopy dark. This will facilitate nesting birds.

Remember – don’t light every tree you see.

Have one or two key features and then the contrasts between night and day will help create the magic.

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CONSIDERATE LIGHTING TO ENCOURAGE WILDLIFE carrying out an installation, I always try to remember who is going to use the garden the most. Often it’s not my client, or the designer, but the wildlife hidden within the garden. I know this is more prevalent in rural areas, but cities have the same challenges, even if it’s just limiting light pollution from your garden to neighbouring properties.

Tree lighting tends to be the main culprit for wildlife disturbances. It’s an area I love – highlighting trees in different ways from the ground as well as moonlighting or silhouette lighting from above. I’ve covered these effects in previous articles. But when shining light up into a canopy we need to be considerate to

nesting birds. It’s a known fact that migrating birds navigate by moonlight and the stars. Artificial light can cause them to wander off course and towards dangerous night-time city landscapes, or to migrate too early and miss critical conditions at their destinations for nesting and foraging.

SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE SUGGESTS THAT ARTIFICIAL LIGHT CAN HAVE A NEGATIVE EFFECT ON ANIMALS

3

If budget allows then use a lighting system that can change light levels.

You can set scenes that allow for some areas to be darker at different times. Then when you are in the garden they can adjust to light the areas you require.

4

Specify brighter or feature lighting on different circuits. That way rather than have everything on after dark, you have options of functional, aesthetic and feature lighting, dependent upon how the garden is used.

5

Always employ the services of a specialist lighting company. We have been lighting landscapes for nearly 20 years, so we understand the careful balances of both client enjoyment and natural influences.

© Kris Dekeijser

As I write I’ve just returned from my daily routine of walking my two dogs at first light. I’m fortunate enough to live in a beautiful part of West Berkshire, just near the Lambourn Valley. It’s particularly stunning at this time of year, with the sights and sounds of wildlife at every turn.

Often this wildlife can be a pest when it comes to gardens. Eating plants, disturbing newly turned soil, and specifically when it comes to our lighting cables. It’s a weekly battle to keep the cables safe and the lighting intact.

Scientific evidence suggests that artificial light can have a negative effect on animals, especially nocturnal ones.

Introducing badly designed garden lighting can radically alter their environment by turning night into day. So what can we do to limit these effects? In many ways we are just custodians of their outside spaces. We enjoying using them, making them pretty, lighting them, planting them and changing them. Whereas their habitat is essential for the continuation of the cyclical nature of procreation and hunting.

When I am offering a lighting design, or

NIGHT LIFE

I’m not your typical veggie eco warrior, but like most of us in the landscaping industry, I do care about the environments we seek to create, both for our clients and the wildlife that surrounds us.

A considerate lighting design should always take these elements into account.

ABOUT ROBERT WEBBER Robert Webber is the founder of Scenic Lighting, a specialist exterior lighting company based in Berkshire.

He designs and installs garden lighting throughout the UK and internationally. Robert can be contacted on rob@ sceniclighting.com or via his mobile on 07766 051000.

www.sceniclighting.com

Owl photograph © Christopher Martin

Robert Webber advises on mitigating the effects of the ‘eternal summer’ that artificial lighting can create in our gardens

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 13:54

EDUCATE

SHADES OF GREY Choosing the right products and materials is key to any project. This recently completed multipurpose seating area is a perfect example, says Sean Butler Selecting the right products and materials for a project is essential to meet several requirements: The budget The aesthetic The essential or desirable Many gardens that are designed and built follow on from a recent renovation or extension project. This opens up new opportunities to create something bespoke, to meet the new aesthetic.

The photo above shows a new contemporary extension to a family home in Essex. Note the use of wraparound bifold doors that elevate into the upstairs window and balcony. This has accentuated the projection of the new extension and rather than be overbearing it becomes a feature.

The client’s brief in this project was to design and build a multipurpose seating area that correlates to the new extension. This had to include the option to sit in shade as well as the sun. The raised level of the existing patio at plus 900mm meant that the space had to be large enough and to the correct scale to balance out the extension.

The new design was to create three separate areas: 1. A sun lounge area 2. A seated partial sun/ shaded area 3. A cosy sofa seating area.

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pergola with slatted cedar cross-sections. ‘I’ beams were used for the uprights to match the width of the stanchions on the corners of the extension.

Spatially the uprights may have seemed too large used on their own. But when lined up with the stanchions it became well balanced and to scale.

Due to impurities in ‘I’ beams, the pitting is easily seen when painted so these were sent for sandblasting and then powder coating. (A point to note, not all powder coating companies can handle large section steel, so before you start designing always consider the feasibility of a product’s proposed finish.)

THE CLIENT’S BRIEF IN THIS PROJECT WAS TO DESIGN AND BUILD A MULTIPURPOSE SEATING AREA THAT CORRELATES TO THE NEW EXTENSION The materials chosen blended sympathetically with the grey of the extension. The steel frame was powder coated in RAL 7015 with a satin finish. This was an exact match to the steel frame extension.

Using ‘I’ beams also allowed the floor recessed lights to fit nicely into the ‘I’ beam recess. Cedar was chosen for the cross beams on a profile of 100mm x 100mm. Spaced at 200mm centres this gives a dappled shade effect which changes angle as the sun moves around the garden. The cedar complements the tone of

the brickwork but will also age gracefully to a soft grey patina in time.

The paving was chosen from London Stone’s range of natural stone. We used grey riven sandstone and had bespoke bull nosing made for the steps. Using a riven instead of a sawn paving helped bring the transition of a traditionally built house and contemporary extension together.

ABOUT SEAN BUTLER Sean Butler is the landscape designer and director of Cube 1994. With a background in civil engineering, Sean has an in-depth understanding of the design, construction and maintenance of the physical and naturally built landscape. www.cube1994.com

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EDUCATE

COMMUNICATION HOW TO ACHIEVE THE BEST OUTCOME Adam Corrie advises on the importance of communication and how it can positively affect you and your business Enhancing your communication skills is a key area in business development and problem solving, and it can lead to achieving the right outcome in all situations.

VERBAL DIALOGUE LEADS TO QUICKER SOLUTIONS, AS YOU ARE ABLE TO GAUGE WITH MORE CERTAINTY THE OTHER PERSON’S POSITION ON A MATTER Whether negotiating a tender or settling a contractual dispute, how you communicate and conduct yourself is absolutely key to a successful result.

We all know how quickly a situation can gather momentum and it is important to remain in control of the direction a matter is going.

In a world of perpetual emails, many of us have stopped communicating as much as we used to by telephone. Although it’s easy to think we’re too busy to spend time on the

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phone, this still remains – and always will remain – the very best form of communication.

Emails can often be misinterpreted both in tone and content. Verbal dialogue leads to quicker solutions, as you are able to gauge with more certainty the other person’s position on a matter.

Once someone has stated a point in writing, they will rarely withdraw from that position. A telephone call, or alternatively a face to face meeting, will always produce a better outcome.

Emails are here to stay, so let’s get it right. If you want to achieve the best result, a strategy on all matters is important. Never rush even a simple outgoing email – always remember what you are trying to achieve: • If you receive an email that you do not agree with or that angers you, never reply immediately. Reflect and respond is always the best advice. A quick response to this type of email can often do more harm than good.

• Always read what you have written before pressing the send button. This may sound very basic, but it can and will save your life.

• Often communication can come too late.

It becomes forced rather than proactive, and the difference is huge.

• Always try and predict what may be coming your way and act accordingly with a ‘one step ahead’ approach.

Social media, such as Twitter and Facebook, has really developed over the last five years and many companies are now choosing this path as a positive form of communication. It is important that potential clients are aware of your presence in the

WHETHER NEGOTIATING A TENDER OR SETTLING A CONTRACTUAL DISPUTE, HOW YOU COMMUNICATE AND CONDUCT YOURSELF IS ABSOLUTELY KEY TO A SUCCESSFUL RESULT

market, and social media is a very powerful way of achieving this and making you as easy to find as possible.

The message is that positive communication is something you can learn; it can significantly help to avoid the unexpected, and lead to much more worthwhile engagement with your clients and the public.

Developing these skills will undoubtedly be beneficial for your business.

ABOUT SYNERGY 3 LTD Synergy 3 Ltd is a design company based in central Manchester. hey o er graphic design, website design, professional photography and related services to the landscaping and construction industry. www.synergy3ltd.com

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EDUCATE

LIKE GARDENS, SOCIAL MEDIA NEEDS PLANNING The key to success on social media? Planning.

Ross Hewitt advises on making the most of your time and resources online

“Better to remain silent and thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt” Those were the wise words of Abraham Lincoln and I am yet to find a more fitting historical quote that can be applied to social media.

Have a look at your last five posts or tweets.

What sort of response would you get if you stood outside and shouted them or stopped a group of your customers and said them?

Telling people how nice that soup was, or who you are rooting for in Strictly Celebrity Baking On Ice probably won’t have them following you around for the rest of the day hoping to hear more.

So what are your next five posts or tweets going to be about?

If you can answer that then you probably have some sort of plan in operation, and to you I tip my hat. If you are not sure then take your foot off the gas and put some time aside to start a content plan as it really will be time well spent.

You need to drive your social media activity in a way that moves your business on by attracting new customers and helping to retain the existing ones.

You will drive it off a cliff if you do not operate to a plan. This risk is also compounded if you try to take on too much activity across too many different platforms. Having links on your website to six different social media accounts does not work if only Facebook gets updated.

Be brutally honest and assess your time and resources. What can you definitely commit time www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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to do, and enough time to do really well?

If you only have time to manage a Twitter account really well then just plan to do that. If you can manage a fortnightly blog article and a Facebook page really well then just do those.

Planning activity does not need to be an arduous task. A couple of hours each month to keep the plan up to date is all that is required and it will save you time. You will approach your accounts on any given day with an idea about what you will be posting and why you are doing it. You might even have days where you have nothing to say… and that is okay, you don’t need to do it every day but you do need some consistency and regularity.

I recommend pulling together a three-month rolling plan. Based on client experience I have found that this time period remains manageable and most businesses can plan content based around events or initiatives that are occurring over a 12 week period.

Give it a whirl; block out a couple of hours, grab a diary or open a spreadsheet and start

listing the things that are happening soon. It might be attendance at a gardening show, or the start of a new season, or a great time to start planting perennials… just list it all down and then think about the images or posts or tweets that can bring each one to life and add the content to the plan.

Soon, like Hannibal from The A-Team, you will be loving it when a plan comes together and your audience will thank you for it.

ABOUT ROSS HEWITT Ross Hewitt is managing director of digital marketing consultancy Secret Pie and author of ‘Savvy Social Media’. Ross began his digital marketing career in 1998 when social networking was ‘something you only did in a pub’. He set up Secret Pie in 2010 and has been helping clients get discovered and loved online ever since. www.secretpie.co.uk Twitter: @Secret_Pie

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23/06/2016 12:16 17:35 17/02/2014

EDUCATE

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN

GLOW? Lighting consultancy director Lorraine Calcott advises on making any outdoor space light up once the sun goes down

With limits on space and time, what is the best way for your outdoor space to really come alive after dark? The first rule is subtlety; too much of a good thing can overpower the beauty of the plants and landscape design, so keep it simple.

Colour temperature Think about colour temperature of your light sources. Lamps tend to range from 2000 Kelvin (K) to 6000K for most commercial LED or lamps.

2000K is a warm colour close to the red end of the visible light spectrum, while 6000K is cool and close to the blue end. Use those differences rather than bright colours to emphasise texture and size.

Consider lamps or LEDs with a warmer colour temperature for plants with an orangey red hue to their foliage and perhaps cooler ones for those with lots of green or variegation, as this will bring out their unique characteristics.

Inset lighting Strong architectural plants can benefit from close inset lighting which highlights the larger leaf structure or sheer size of the foliage, giving www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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dramatic shadows. Small trees might look more dramatic with lighting which catches the branches rather than just the leaves. This also works well when the trees are free of leaves and at that time colour could be introduced to replace the softness that leaves bring. Lighting should not compete with the plants or trees but enhance them.

THE FIRST RULE IS SUBTLETY; TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING CAN OVERPOWER THE BEAUTY OF THE PLANTS AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN, SO KEEP IT SIMPLE Colour rendition Colour rendition (CRI/RA) will determine how true your colours are when viewed under artificial light.

Daylight, for instance, has a colour rendition of 100 (the highest achievable) where as low pressure sodium lighting, which was once used in streets and has a distinctive orange colour, has a colour rendition of zero. For outdoor environments where foliage and flowers are integral to your design then a high CRI or RA is preferable. Try to ensure your lamps or LEDs are rated at 85 or above. Also try to make sure they have sufficient R9, which for LEDs can be missing, and will mean your reds won’t be well represented.

Times they are a changin’ With any design there will be elements which will change over time, and all of a sudden you realise your light is now under the bush instead of lighting it. Other problems can be grass cutting over in-ground luminaires and vandalism. Always think about the longer term implications of placement of your lights and how you will maintain them.

Finally, try to remember that the light is there to encourage people into the space after dark and to make them feel comfortable. Lighting the outer edges of the space can make people feel safer as it improves their depth of visual field. Lighting vertical surfaces also works so that people or animals can be seen against a lit surface. Think about ambient lighting to gently wash the area so that faces can be seen and to create a homogenous space for all to enjoy.

ABOUT LORRAINE CALCOTT Lorraine Calcott is the founder and managing director of It Does Lighting Ltd – bringing ideas to light. www.itdoes.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 99

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EDUCATE

WHAT I’M READING Title Italian Gardens of the Renaissance Author JC Shepherd & GA Jellicoe Publisher Princeton Architectural Press RRP $85 (approx £66) Though I didn’t realise it at the time, my first experience of being moved by a garden was down to the genius of Geoffrey Jellicoe.

Living in Guildford, my childhood treat was tea at Harvey’s Roof Garden where I’d play on the round stepping stones that crossed the fish pond. I didn’t understand that the garden was inspired by Sputnik, nor that its designer, Sir Geoffrey Jellicoe, was the foremost landscape designer of the 20th century. I just knew that it felt good and I loved it.

Many years later, the book I refer to most is Jellicoe’s survey of Italian Renaissance gardens, undertaken in 1923/4 with fellow architectural student John Shepherd and first published in 1925. This year-long study had such an impact on Jellicoe that it led to him changing tack from architecture to landscape.

This is a large book, a coffee table tome before such things were invented, and the size allows Shepherd’s exquisitely rendered plans and elevations to be studied in depth. It is only by drawing things that we understand them, and I am absolutely convinced that this early grounding

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Amanda Patton, founder of Amanda Patton Landscape & Garden Design

through an in-depth study of these gardens had a direct impact on Jellicoe’s future design work.

While in Italy, Jellicoe was also exposed to the work of a little known English designer, Cecil Pinsent, who worked in Tuscany around the turn of the 20th century, creating modern interpretations of Renaissance gardens for the super-rich expat Anglo-American community. In a continuation of inspiration, some of Jellicoe’s best work, notably the water gardens at Shute, have clear references to gardens created by Pinsent.

The villas featured in the book are arranged in chronological order, which helps to understand the development of the Italian garden from the earliest Villa Medici in Fiesole (later adapted by Pinsent) to the abandonment of the Renaissance ideals in the 18th century. Each brief description is accompanied by exquisitely rendered plans and elevations which are works of art in themselves, and there are also photographs taken by Shepherd and Jellicoe which are fascinating to compare with the gardens now.

FAVOURITE CHAPTER The first chapter of the book offers the best assessment of the development of the Italian garden that I’ve read – I think because it’s written by a designer, not a historian. Three essays expand on ‘Historical Sketch’, ‘Formality and Design’ and ‘The Effect’, each illustrated with further beautiful drawings. About formality, Jellicoe states: “The general term ‘formality’ as applied to the garden is often misread as being cold and stiff. The informality of nature can be a

beautiful serene thing in itself. So, too, can be the formality of a home; but when the two are brought into immediate contact without compromise, the charm of both may be lost in abrupt contrast.”

DESIGN INFLUENCE I first sought out this book when I started visiting Italian gardens and I’ve been lucky enough to have visited most of those that are included – most recently, in April, I visited the garden on the cover, at Valsanzibio in the Veneto. While some may think that Renaissance gardens hold little relevance for today’s world, even in ‘deconstructed’ and natural gardens the principles of proportion, scale, vistas, clarity of vision and atmosphere remain the same whatever you’re designing.

Jellicoe’s book reminds me of where we are, and where we have come from. It helps me keep my own work firmly in the context of time and place, which I’d like to think helps ground it. Most of all, it’s beautiful. It combines art, maths, geometry and a sense of place and when I’m needing inspiration, this is where I turn.

ABOUT THE BOOK Italian Gardens of the Renaissance traces the development of Italian garden design from the early Renaissance work of Michelozzi, Bramante and Rossellino to its culmination in the villas Madama, Medici and Papa Giulio. The study by John C. Shepherd and Geoffrey A. Jellicoe remains the classic work on the subject and is renowned for its exquisite India-ink wash plans perspectives and elevations.

Photograph of Amanda © Gary Rogers

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KIT

Expert view

FOCUS ON PPE L PPE CONTRO GROUND ORDSAFETY.CO.UK SF LM WWW.CHE

RUSSELL BONE

HEAD OF QHSE, SPECIALIST SERVICES, MITIE

RACHEL TUCKER

MITIE STAFF

Ground Control works within current health and safety legislation to supply and maintain the most suitable PPE for its colleagues. Ground Control aims to replace all PPE due to change of role, new equipment being installed, following an incident or accident, or at colleagues’ request. We supply all of our teams and managers all variations of PPE, from safety gloves to hi-vis waterproof trousers. The job role has a big influence on the type of PPE requirement that the operative has, whether they are a grounds maintenance operative or an arborist.

At Mitie Landscapes, PPE is the final consideration when ensuring our staff’s work-related safety. Firstly, we would follow the risk hierarchy to remove or reduce associated risks from an activity. If after this there is still a need for PPE, we work with our preferred manufacturers to choose PPE proportionate to the work-related risk and ensure it is comfortable to wear. Our staff are taught how to wear, store, protect and replace their PPE. The final consideration is to ensure that old PPE is safely disposed of to avoid third parties using it and putting themselves in danger.

WWW.GROUND-CONTROL.CO.UK

WWW.MITIE.COM

SIMON FOLEY

QUALITY, HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS MANAGER, THE LANDSCAPE GROUP PPE can cover a huge breadth of equipment ranging from disposable gloves through to full respiratory protection equipment. The selection of correct PPE is vital; it should be specific to the hazards identified during the risk assessment. The effective life of PPE also varies – some have a known lifespan such as single use disposable gloves or dust masks, whereas some equipment can last a lot longer. Through regular checks by trained operatives, PPE can be replaced before it wears out. Our PPE supplier is SMI Group.

WWW.THELANDSCAPEGROUP.CO.UK WWW.SMIGROUPUK.COM

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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PURCHASING ASSISTANT, GROUND CONTROL

A HUSQVARN work g sleeve Technical lon . VAT t-shirt £34 inc e work ort sleev Technical sh . VAT t-shirt £28 inc M/UK RNA.CO WWW.HUSQVA

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BEN STILLING

CONTRACT MANAGER, JOHN O’CONNER (GROUNDS MAINTENANCE) LTD At John O’Conner we provide our operatives with a range of high quality PPE to cover all grounds maintenance tasks to ensure high safety standards. Operatives both male and female are given choices where possible to ensure the best fit, and items are replaced regularly to ensure optimum performance. Standard issue includes safety boots, safety glasses, ear defenders/ear plugs, ear protection for strimming and hedge cutting, safety gloves and hi-vis jacket to be worn at all times.

Our supplier is SMI Group.

WWW.JOHNOCONNER.CO.UK WWW.SMIGROUPUK.COM

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EDUCATE

FOOTWEAR

Expert view

DAVID HIRST

DEWALT ork Boot Apprentice W 99 4.

Eva RRP £6 UK T.CO. WWW.DEWAL

CONTRACTS MANAGER, GRACE LANDSCAPES LTD

SCRUFFS SRC Rated Assault SBP P £54.95 RR Safety Hiker T) (zero rated VA M S.CO WWW.SCRUFF

SIMON HARRISON

DIRECTOR, GARDEN BOX LANDSCAPES

In terms of safety, they meet the EN ISO 20345 safety standard for use on construction sites, as well as the standard that we adhere to in-house. They are lightweight yet durable and suit all aspects of my role, a combination of in the office, out on site, in the yard and driving and I wear them in all weathers. They last over 12 months and are comfortable from day one, no wearing in. They are mid-range in terms of pricing and are often on offer.

Both myself and my labourer Luke wear Scruffs work boots.

I have found over the years that Scruffs have been a good compromise of cost and longevity, but also comfort. I have quite an exacting list of requirements from the safety boots we use, due to the varied nature of landscaping work. It must have a steel toe, and midsole, but also a rubber cap over the toe to prevent the leather wearing through and the steel toe insert falling out.

WWW.GRACELANDSCAPES.COM WWW.STERLINGSAFETYWEAR.CO.UK

WWW.GARDENBOXLANDSCAPES.CO.UK WWW.SCRUFFS.COM

SCOTT CREELMAN

BRENT WHITE

REDBACK Escape’ UBOK ‘Easy RRP £99.95 AR.CO.UK WWW.BUSHGE

DIRECTOR, SANCTUARY LANDSCAPES

I always wear an Australian brand, Redback. Not just because I’m true to my Aussie heritage but because Redbacks are superbly comfortable, resilient to all conditions – rain, shine, mud, cement, the whole lot – yet with a bit of buffing, still presentable to wear for client meetings.

WWW.SANCTUARYLANDSCAPES.CO.UK WWW.BUSHGEAR.CO.UK 106 Pro Landscaper / July 2016

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SENIOR GARDENER, RAMSCAPES

ER RUFFLAND £93.95 ot RRP 79X Safety Bo delivery including UK .CO.UK AR WWW.BUSHGE

Having worn numerous work boots over the years, my company has found these made in the UK. They are a Rufflander 79X Safety Boot with a midsole insert. These are the best work boots I have worn, they are very comfortable and of a high quality material. They are waterproof and even in heavy rain remain dry inside. They are handmade in the UK and an optional mid-section plate can be added to provide S3 rating.

WWW.RAMSCAPES.CO.UK WWW.RUFFLANDER.CO.UK

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

23/06/2016 14:04

PEOPLE

Woodbörd was conceived out of founder Nick Negus’ dissatisfaction with standards in the composite decking industry. Pro Landscaper spoke to Nick and director Darren Field on their desire to better the sector through Woodbörd Nick Negus went from installing composite decking to supplying it following a few bad personal experiences with the quality and delivery of the product from other companies.

He founded Woodbörd with the main aim of improving the standard of customer service.

The main complaint Nick had with other companies was the state of the materials when they arrived on site, along with the delivery process as a whole. With Woodbörd, he aimed to improve this: “We deliver our decking in our Decking available • Dimensions (W) 140mm ± 1mm x (H) 25mm ± 1mm x (L) 1,000mm ± 2mm • Colours ash, chestnut, silver birch • Composition 87.5% recycled material

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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INTRODUCING

own vans with our own staff, with real people at the end of the phone if there are any queries. We aim to be courteous, to deliver quickly and efficiently with good presentation of the product itself on arrival.”

Managing director Darren Field summed it up by saying: “Our aim is that the customer journey, from start to finish, is one to be remembered for all the right reasons.”

So why composite decking? Nick tells us: “We chose it because we wanted to create a decking material that looked and behaved like wood but didn’t have the same drawbacks.

We wanted it to last longer than wood without risking splinters or slipping.”

Woodbörd’s composite decking is made from recycled materials, using recycled wood powder and high density polyethylene created from plastic bags, bottles, and other similar items. Nick explains that some companies print woodgrain onto composite decking, whereas Woodbörd ingrains the woodprint, increasing its non-slip ability.

In terms of pricing, Nick says the decking is mid-range, though a 20% discount is available for trade customers.

“Considering we offer a 20 year warranty on our product we think it is pretty good value. Our prices are a bit more expensive than some, but we provide a great product alongside a fantastic warranty.”

So what else can we expect from Woodbörd in the upcoming months? “We are always working on new ideas. At the moment we are developing a range of garden studios using our own material, and these will be available to the trade on a supply-only basis.”

Woodbörd will also be attending FutureScape this year on 15 November, where visitors will be able to see the products and get advice on specifying Woodbörd in their projects.

CONTACT

Company name Woodbörd Address Milton Innovation Centre, Building 99, Milton Park, Abingdon OX14 4RY Tel 01235 854093 Email hello@woodbord.com Twitter @woodbord1 Facebook WoodbordUK Web www.woodbord.com

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 107

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PEOPLE

TRADING WITH ARTIFICIAL GRASS DIRECT

Artificial Grass Direct is a leading supplier of artificial grass to both trade customers and the public.

Pro Landscaper spoke to Louise Kirk, general manager

How and when was the company set up?

Artificial Grass Direct was set up at the beginning of 2011, but the directors Louise Kirk, have over 25 years of general manager experience in the artificial grass industry. We are recognised as a leading importer and wholesaler as well as designing our own grasses and working with contract tufters throughout the world.

discounts on to the customer right at the beginning. There really is something for every application and budget within the range.

What products do you offer as well as artificial grass?

We offer all the accessories that are needed including weed membrane, joining tape, adhesive, fixings and a range of safety shock pad surfaces that meet critical fall heights when dealing with play areas. Recently we have launched a range of artificial hedges and ivy for covering unsightly areas.

Do you supply UK wide and do you offer a warranty?

We do supply UK wide and export throughout Europe. We also provide a five year warranty.

Where are your products in terms of pricing?

Our emphasis is very much on product quality, but because we have such buying power we have negotiated the best prices and pass the

What are the benefits of using artificial grass?

It looks great all season with no mowing, watering or feeding with limitless use. It is very realistic, hard wearing, low maintenance, child and pet friendly, and has a high UV resistance.

Do you offer trade discounts?

Yes we do. We work in partnership with landscapers and often have requests from the public for an installer, which we pass to the landscapers we work with.

How do you market the business?

We market through lots of different channels, mainly internet based but also through different forms of media.

Are there any drawbacks?

There aren’t really any drawbacks to artificial grass so long as the preparation of the groundwork is done correctly. It can get slightly warmer than natural grass but in the UK we don’t have to worry about this much. After time, it will be susceptible to normal wear and tear or flattening but only needs a 108 Pro Landscaper / July 2016

Trading With.indd 108

CONTACT Company name Artificial Grass Direct Ltd Address 16 Hallsteads Business Park, Dove Holes, Buxton SK17 8BJ Tel 0845 177 1664 Email sales@artificialgrass-direct.com Facebook Artificial Grass Direct Ltd Web www.artificialgrass-direct.com

quick brush up and hose down to spring back to life. It really requires very little maintenance.

Why would our readers choose Artificial Grass Direct?

Because of the quality of our products, the high level of service we offer, the huge stock levels we carry and of course being the most competitive on price. Our team is also there to assist with technical and marketing support.

Can we expect to see anything new in the upcoming months?

As well as our new range of hedges, our technicians and buyers are constantly specifying new products and searching the globe for new innovations. We have a number of new products coming through in the next few months. Our most recent addition to the range is the Elite grass.

This is a European product, 40mm pile height that is incredibly soft and has a memory pile to reduce flattening. A mixture of olive and spring green colours with a contrasting light beige thatch gives this grass a very realistic finish. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 13:45

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For domestic, commercial and recreational use, we manufacture high quality artificial grass for every application

Ride On Mowers - Rotary Etesia H124DS – 50” RD deck & Hi-Tip Collector, 2WD, HST – 1038 hrs Remote Control Niko ‘Robo Flail’ mower Grillo 7.16 Bank Mower fitted with 34” deck, 16hp, 2WD, hydrostatic John Deere 997 Zero Turn - 60” RD deck, 31hp, 2WD - 1452 hrs John Deere 1445 - 60” SD deck, 31hp, 4WD, hydrostatic drive - 1013 hrs John Deere 1445 – 62” RD deck, 31hp, 4WD, hydrostatic drive – 2136 hrs John Deere 1445 - 60” SD deck, full glass cab, 31hp, 4WD - 2126 hrs John Deere 1445 - 62” RD deck, 31hp, 4WD - 3722 hrs John Deere 1565 fitted with Trimax 60” flail deck, 38hp diesel engine, 4WD – 1498 hrs John Deere 1600T Wide Area Mower - 3.25m, canopy, 64hp, 4WD - 3396 hrs John Deere X950R, 54” RD deck & hi-tip collector - 101 hrs John Deere 455 - 54” SD deck, & hi-tip collector John Deere X740 - 54” SD deck & low-tip collector, 24hp, 2WD, HST - 1691 hrs John Deere X748 – 48” SD deck & Hi-Tip collector. 24hp, 4WD, HST – 1319 hrs

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John Deere 2500 - 22” / 11 blade units, smooth tyres - 2881 hrs John Deere 2500A - 22” / 11 blade units with brushes - 3195 hrs John Deere 2500B – 22” / 11 blade units & grass boxes – 1363 hrs John Deere 2653A - 26” / 8 blade units, 18hp, 3WD - 2534 hrs John Deere 2653A - 26” / 8 blade units, 18hp, 3WD - 3422 hrs John Deere 2653B – 26” / 5 blade units, 19hp, 3WD – 2970 hrs John Deere 2653B – 30” / 8 blade units, 19hp, 3WD – 1294 hrs John Deere 3225C - 22” / 7 blade light weight units – 3074 hrs John Deere 3235C – 22” / 8 blade units, 32hp, 4WD, HST – 3311 hrs John Deere 7400 Terrain Cut with 3 rotary decks, 37hp, 3WD, HST – 2605 hrs from Hayter LT324, 35hp, 4WD, HST – choice of 8 Ransome Highway 3, 33hp Kubota Diesel, 4WD, HST - 1308 hrs

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Pedestrian Mowers

Allett Tournament 20” cylinder mower (ex demo) Allett Buckingham 20H cylinder mower Allett Buffalo 24” cylinder mower Allett Shaver 24” cylinder mower Ferris Dual Drive, 52” width of cut, 2WD, HST Ferris Mower, 32” RD deck, 2WD, HST Scag 36” Commercial Mower c/w RD deck - choice of 5 Scag 48” Commercial Mower c/w RD deck, 2WD, HST – choice of 17 Scag 52” Commercial Mower c/w SD deck, 2WD, HST Lloyds Paladin pedestrian cylinder mower – 9 blade cylinder, 22” width of cut Ransome Marquis 51 pedestrian cylinder mower – 5 blade cylinder, 51cm width of cut John Deere JX90C professional walk-behind mower. 22” width of cut

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Misc Machinery

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23/06/2016 16:21

PEOPLE

THE THREE PEAKERS

RIDE AGAIN With just over two months to go, the team of horticulturists taking part in the Three Peakers Ride Again challenge for Perennial are in the throes of their rigorous training programme and fundraising campaign. We caught up with event leader Paul Rayfield from PIE Events, who recently led a recce of the route with ex-professional cyclist and three-time GB MTB champion, Barrie Clarke.

“This is quite simply a fantastic ride. I have led events across Europe and I am more excited about this one than any other we are doing this year. Both the road and MTB teams have a gruelling challenge ahead of them – their original Three Peaks Extreme challenge will be nothing compared to this – but they have a unique opportunity to enjoy point to point cycling across some of the UK’s most breathtaking and remote scenery.

“When Barrie came off the hill on the first day of the recce he was smiling all over his face. That’s enough to tell me we’ve created a really special ride. The route takes in some of the best coastal scenery of West Wales and Cornwall with some challenging climbs and exciting descents both on and off road.

“This challenge is truly unique and we just can’t wait to get the teams started.

They are a great bunch of people determined to have a good time while raising a phenomenal amount of money for their industry charity, Perennial. But we can’t stress enough how difficult this challenge is going to be, both technically and physically. To put it into context, the MTB team will be climbing more than the height of Kilimanjaro over the course of six days and more than Snowdon every day. The road team will climb over the height of Everest over the course of the week and more than Ben Nevis each day!

Off-roaders will be dealing with river crossings, climbs that require them to carry their bikes as well as some incredibly steep climbs and downhills for both teams.

This is not one for the faint hearted, but we guarantee that each and every rider will have a life-enhancing experience they will never forget.”

EVENT d et a il

BARRIE CLARKE

BRYAN SINGLETON

MTB GROUP LEADER

ROAD GROUP LEADER

s

Each team will be guided by an ex-professional rider – Barrie Clarke for the MTB group and Bryan Singleton for the road bikers – and support vehicles will be on hand at all times. The teams will meet each night to compare notes, discuss the day’s ride and enjoy some hearty British hospitality along the way. Accommodation is varied and includes a youth hostel, a remote bunk house and a pub with its own micro-brewery.

Road 759km 10,863m ascent

DONATE! To donate to the Three Peakers Ride Again team, who hope to raise over £50,000 for Perennial this year, visit www.justgiving.com/teams/ three-peakers-ride-again.

MTB 530km 7,668m ascent

To find out more about Perennial, the horticulture industry’s charity dedicated to helping all UK horticulturists with tailored one-toone support, financial assistance and advice, visit www.perennial.org.uk or call 0800 093 8510.

Paul Rayfield, PIE Events

110 Pro Landscaper / July 2016

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JOBS XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXX Location:

Xxxxxxx xxxxxx xxxxxx xxxx xx xxxxxxxx xxx xx For more details please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk.

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

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

Call 01903 777 570 or email hortcareers@eljays44.com with your vacancy

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE CHARGE-HAND

EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPER

GSB Landscapes is a grounds maintenance company based in South Lanarkshire, currently seeking to recruit a grounds maintenance team leader / supervisor. The role will involve carrying out grounds maintenance duties using a wide range of machinery, completing site reports, liasing with clients and team members and supervision of teams.

The successful candidate should hold a relevant horticultural or landscape qualification.

We are looking for a skilled landscaper for a long term opportunity in our expanding business. Candidates will need to have at least five years’ experience in all aspects of hard landscaping works, a proactive and positive attitude, organisational skills and a full driving license.

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

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

HARD LANDSCAPE FOREMAN

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE OPERATIVE

Garden Club London designs and builds a range of gardens from roof terraces to suburban landscapes and works on a mix of projects in both the residential and commercial sectors. The company is seeking a skilled and adaptable hard landscaper with a proven track record in delivering high quality landscapes, with the ability to manage a site and communicate effectively with the operations team and designers.

The candidate must be able to supervise and motivate labourers and apprentices.

Phil Franklin Landscapes Ltd is a landscaping and maintenance company based in East London, currently seeking a landscape maintenance operative with a potential opportunity for a supervisor. Plant knowledge is essential along with proven experience, a good understanding of safe practices and experience using garden maintenance machinery. Candidates for the landscape maintenance operative role must have at least three years of experience. Supervisor candidates must also have the ability to delegate effectively and a good understanding of risk assessments and method statements.

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

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

ASSISTANT LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT / GARDEN DESIGNER

HARD AND SOFT LANDSCAPE TEAM LEADERS

GSB LANDSCAPES Location: Glasgow

GARDEN CLUB LONDON LTD Location: London

ANN-MARIE POWELL GARDENS Location: Petersfield, Hampshire

URBAN LANDSCAPE DESIGN Location: Cheshire

PHIL FRANKLIN LANDSCAPES Location: East London

EMOTIVE LANDSCAPES LTD Location: Cheltenham, Gloucestershire

Ann-Marie Powell Gardens Ltd is recruiting for an assistant landscape architect / garden designer. The applicant will need to be talented, motivated and organised, keen to be a valued member of our enthusiastic, committed team. You must have a recognised qualification in landscape or garden design and a minimum of two years’ experience in a landscape architecture or design practice.

Emotive Landscapes focuses on high end residential landscaping projects and is looking for the right person or people to join the company long term. The ideal candidate should have proven experience in landscaping or landscape construction, an ability to build gardens from scale plans and a good all-round knowledge of landscape building.

Team leader responsibilities will include managing high quality landscape jobs, driving company vehicles and mananging health and safety.

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

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

EXPERIENCED LANDSCAPER

GARDEN MAINTENANCE MANAGER

We are looking for a professional and experienced landscaper who is proficient in all aspects of landscaping works including paving, drainage, decking, fencing, brick and block work and turfing. We are seeking an individual to join our enthusiastic team and in return we are offering a generous salary including benefits package, phone, tablet, tools and transport.

An opportunity has opened for an experienced garden maintenance manager to join our well-established and dynamic team. The role is office-based and will be responsible for the running of the garden maintenance department. The successful candidate will have excellent communication and team-building skills, have an extensive plant knowledge, be able to meet tight deadlines and hold a current clean driving license.

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

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

KIRMAN DESIGN Location: Warrington, Cheshire

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

JOBS ProLan.indd 111

CAMERON LANDSCAPES AND GARDENS Location: UK

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 111

23/06/2016 15:40

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22/06/2016 16:31

PEOPLE

MICHELLE WAKE Lead designer, Greenwave Garden Design www.greenwavedesign.co.uk Most referred to gardening book When I started out it was the RHS Encyclopedia of Plants, closely followed by the Michael Littlewood Construction Detailing books. These days I’m more likely to Google things. I am still a sucker for a beautiful garden design book, though – my most recent purchase was Kim Wilkie’s ‘Led by the Land’.

Best garden in the UK That’s an impossible question. A garden I visit regularly that always makes me happy is The Walled Garden at Mells, near Frome. They have great food, a view out to a medieval deer park and exuberant, perennial planting.

Biggest life influence Nature.

Top plant Trees are my favourite type of plant. Every garden should have at least one tree. If you want a specific species it would have to be Polystichum setiferum,

114 Pro Landscaper / July 2016

Little Interview.indd 114

which I use frequently in my planting schemes.

Favourite tipple Elderflower and lemon gin and tonic.

Pro Landscaper asks quick-fire questions to gain a small insight into the people who make up our industry. To take part email lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com

Most treasured gift My piano.

Lifelong fan of Team GB, I love the Olympics.

Most used saying or cliché “It will be fine.”

Prediction for 2016 gardening trends I live in rural Somerset – we don’t really do trends! To be honest, I was dismayed to hear there is now an app to water your garden remotely.

For me, gardens are all about connecting to nature.

If you don’t get out and feel the soil with your fingers you are missing out on that connection. It’s handy if you are away, I suppose.

Three people you’d like to invite for dinner Caitlin Moran, Commander Hadfield (the astronaut) and Emma Marris (author of The Rambunctious Garden).

GILES HEAP Managing director, CED Ltd www.ced.ltd.uk Most referred to gardening book Google. Or Kyoto Gardens

by J. Clancy and B. Simmons.

Best garden in the UK Possibly Audley End. I love the scale and natural feel that Capability Brown designed.

Biggest life influence The birth of my first daughter – realising that I had become responsible for a child’s life.

That definitely changed me.

Top plant Although I love plants, I know almost nothing about them! I do remember one I saw at RHS Tatton – Chocolate Cosmos, I believe.

Favourite tipple Good single malt from Islay or Macan Rioja.

Most treasured gift My daughters.

Lifelong fan of I’m into individual sports – more the ‘me against the world’ type of sports like rock climbing, martial arts or cycling.

Most used saying or cliché “That’ll do Donkey, that’ll do!”

Prediction for 2016 gardening trends I think that high-end design is going to move away from the minimalistic approach towards a more traditional, organic style. I also suspect porcelain will be the next big thing in UK hard landscaping.

Three people you’d like to invite to dinner Richard Branson, Marco Polo, Buddha.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/06/2016 14:10

PEOPLE

JO HARDINGHAM Commercial director, Grace Landscapes www.gracelandscapes.com Most referred to gardening book RHS Encyclopedia of Plants. I bought my first copy when I was at Askham Bryan when it was still in one volume.

I bought the two volume version a few years back.

Best garden in the UK Biddulph Grange – a Victorian garden created by James Bateman to display

his collection from around the world, so you get many gardens for the price of one.

Most treasured gift Life membership to the National Trust, way back when I was a 21-year-old student.

Prediction for 2016 gardening trends A return to rustic, both planting and accessories.

Top plant Poppies.

Lifelong fan of Stoke City Football Club. Is there any other team?

Favourite tipple Vodka and anything with vodka in it – or real ale.

Most used saying or cliché “It’s only a weed if you don’t want it there.”

Three people you’d like to invite to dinner Jim Morrison of The Doors, Ryan Shawcross and Matt Williams the sports presenter – his laugh is very infectious.

Biggest life influence My mum.

RICHARD BICKLER

NICK RILEY

Owner, Arbour Design and Build

Landscape architect, Landscape Engineering Ltd

www.arbourdesign.co.uk Most referred to gardening book External Works.

Best garden in the UK My mum’s garden!

Biggest life influence My parents, wife, kids, dog and social media.

Top plant Catalpa bignonioides.

Favourite tipple Peroni.

Most treasured gift Wedding ring and children.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Little Interview.indd 115

www.landscapeengineering.co.uk Lifelong fan of Liverpool.

Most used saying or cliché “Turn off the lights! It’s not cold!”

Prediction for 2016 gardening trends More Dutch pavers to be used within landscaping projects, and more reclaimed materials will feature.

Three people you’d like to invite to dinner Richard Branson, Bruce Grobbelaar, my old maths teacher.

Most referred to gardening book Hillier’s Plants.

Best garden in the UK Chatsworth House.

Biggest life influence My dad.

Top plant Hazel – there’s so much you can do with it.

Favourite tipple Hobgoblin ale.

Most treasured gift Set of woodcarving hand tools from an old friend who built wide boats on the Leeds-Liverpool canal.

Lifelong fan of Don’t follow football, but I do like mountain biking.

Most used saying or cliché “There or thereabouts.”

Prediction for 2016 gardening trends Sail shades that are waterproof – and water features.

Three people you’d like to invite to dinner Capability Brown, Sir Paul Smith, Peter Kay.

Pro Landscaper / July 2016 115

22/06/2016 14:10

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