Pro Landscaper November 2020

NOVEMBER 2O20

Headline sponsor SHORTLIST REVEALED

LANDSCAPE BAROMETER

30 UNDER 30

HEALING HORTICULTURE

small project BIG IMPACT Awards

Find out how the UK market is performing

Introducing the next generation

Horatio’s Garden Charity creates a garden for the NHS

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INSPIRA modular planting system

A canvas for natural bursts of colour, bringing a range of environmental & social benefits to the built environment.

Increases Biodiversity

Acoustic Cushioning

Improves Rainwater Management

Offers Pedestrian Protection

Reduces Pollution

Improves Mental Health

Promotes Social Distancing

Climate Cooling

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WELCOME

W E LCO M E W

to understand what is available, how we can help, and share with you some case studies to highlight the effectiveness it can bring to your business.

But before then, we are proving the technology point by taking FutureScape 100% virtual. This is very exciting for us, even though it’s not the FutureScape we had originally planned.

FutureScape VIRTUAL will have all the elements of the live version – excellent seminars, live debates, an amazing array of exhibitors and industry awards – but of course, the main difference is that it will be delivered directly to you in your own environment.

The event will now be over three days (17, 18 and 19 November 2020) and you can find further details, timings, seminar programmes and who is speaking at www.futurescapevirtual.com. We look forward to seeing you all in the virtual world.

Have a great month.

JIM & LISA

WE ARE PROVING THE TECHNOLOGY POINT BY TAKING FUTURESCAPE 100% VIRTUAL

©Langdale Landscapes

elcome to the November issue of Pro Landscaper. This month, we speak to various companies within the landscape sector about technology, and how and if they have embedded it in their working practice – mostly, the initial reaction is yes, of course. But delving deeper, the majority (and of course, there are some exceptions) have just tinkered with it.

With lockdown and the additional restrictions on movement that are currently in place – and into the foreseeable future – we have to embrace technology. How many people had Zoom (or the like) on their iPads or PCs this time last year?

But technology can and needs to go deeper than just video calls. Every aspect of business from accounting, back office, VAT/tax, marketing, training development, recruiting, communication, tools, equipment, vehicle monitoring and performance, purchasing, and everywhere we look, can potentially be enhanced by technology.

2021 will see Pro Landscaper help our readers

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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CONTENTS

INFORM

INSPIRE

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51 54 58 62 66 68 71

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News Extra: Richard Kay BALI’s new chairman News Extra: SGD SGD welcomes new chair So Long and Thanks For All The Fish Nick Temple-Heald small project BIG IMPACT Shortlist announced UK Landscape Barometer How the market is performing Future Projects Sandbanks Peninsula

Healing Horticulture Horatio’s Garden All-Purpose Al Fresco Limebok Landscaping Landscape Architect’s Journal Balston Agius Living With and Within Nature Anji Connell Decking Top deck: top products for 2020

FutureScape Virtual 2020 What to expect at this year’s event Realistic Optimism Marcus Watson Health Design Katie Flaxman Bee Natural Andrew Wilson Nature’s Spoils Ben West South Downs National Park England’s green and pleasant land

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NURTURE

30 Under 30: The Next Generation Announcing this year’s winners

Let’s Hear It From Nik Edser, Langdale Landscapes

Pro Landscaper / November 2020

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On Another Level Landscapes 4 Living

©Lucy Shergold

11 12 14

News Our monthly roundup of industry news

85 89 90 91 92 94 96 97

Feature Garden Petersfield Physic Garden Consider Coastal Plants Noel Kingsbury Optimism is Good Medicine Lewis Normand When is a Plant UK Grown?

Nick Coslett The Risks of Rootballs Steve McCurdy Producing in a Pandemic Turfgrass Growers Association Reviving with Rolawn Case study: Farnham Plant Trends Nurseries’ predictions for 2021

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CONTENTS

N OV E M B E R 2 0 2 0 E D U C AT E 101 102 103 105 107 109 110 112 114 117

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Three Ways to Increase Your Sales and Profit Alison Warner Consistency is Key Lee Bestall Finalising Furlough Ilan Braha and Jason McKenzie of Oracle Solicitors Thinking Outside the Box Angus Lindsay Embracing Electric Making the switch Towin’ Ain’t Easy Light Commercial Vehicle Technology (LCVT) Finding the Right Vehicle Isuzu Truck Low Maintenance Without Compromise Talasey Group Create Your Style with CASATUA Porcelain paving collection Gateway to the Cotswolds Smiths Bletchington

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PEOPLE 121 122 124 127 130

NOVEMBER 2O20

Out & About Wye Valley Life/Style Holly Youde What’s Your Role Kristina Clode 30 Under 30 Update Charlie Hartigan Headline sponsor

Little Interviews Questions with the individuals who make up our industry

SHORTLIST REVEALED

LANDSCAPE BAROMETER

30 UNDER 30

HEALING HORTICULTURE

small project BIG IMPACT Awards

Find out how the UK market is performing

Introducing the next generation

Horatio’s Garden Charity creates a garden for the NHS

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www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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Pro Landscaper / November 2020

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STYLISH, CONTEMPORARY LED PATH AND PLANTING LIGHTS Trade Discounts Available Next Day Delivery Free Expert Installation Advice

WWW.LIGHTINGFORGARDENS.COM

014 62 486777

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CONTRIBUTORS

CO N T R I B U TO R S Anji Connell Gardening has surged in popularity thanks to lockdown and this could well impact the trends for next year. Anji Connell explores the themes we can expect to see, including getting creative with small gardens and balconies. Permaculture has also been rising up the ranks this year, and Anji reckons this will continue into 2021.

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W W W.ANJICONNELLINTERIORDESIGN.COM

MARCUS WATSON P36

@ANJICONNELL

Noel Kingsbury

KATIE FLAXMAN P38

Coastal conditions can be seen inland too, so why aren’t coastal plants considered for a variety of schemes rather simply those by the sea? Noel Kingsbury ponders this, along with some lesser known sources for suitable plants in coastal schemes, including central Asia.

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W W W.NOELKINGSBURY.COM

ANDREW WILSON P39

@NOELK57

Nick Coslett Buying plants from UK nurseries rather than from abroad has a number of benefits, including helping to prevent pests and diseases from entering the country to supporting local growers (not to mention it could be easier following Brexit). But what does it mean for a plant to be 'UK grown'? Nick Coslett tackles this tough question.

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LEWIS NORMAND P90

@MADABOUTPLANTS

Alison Warner

ORACLE SOLICITORS P103

Business coach Alison Warner joins us as a contributor to share her top tips for growing your business. Specialising in helping construction and trade businesses, Alison has plenty of industry insight to help landscaping companies become more efficient and increase their profit, from small changes to the more significant.

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W W W.EVOLVEANDGROWCOACHING.COM

CONTACT

Eljays44 Ltd 3 Churchill Court, 112 The Street, Rustington, West Sussex BN16 3DA Tel: 01903 777 570 EDITORIAL Editorial director – Lisa Wilkinson lisa.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 579 Head of content – Nina Mason nina.mason@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 959 393 Deputy head of content – Rachael Forsyth rachael.forsyth@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 578 Equipment editor – Rachel Gordon proarbeditor@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570 Subeditor – Katrina Roy katrina.roy@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 959 391 Subeditor – Sam Seaton sam.seaton@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 959 391

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Design – Kara Thomas, Kirsty Turek ADVERTISING Business development manager – Jamie Wilkinson jamie.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 585 Head of sales – Jessica McCabe jessica.mccabe@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 587 Horticulture Careers – Phil Every phil.every@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 570 Managing director – Jim Wilkinson jim.wilkinson@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 589 MARKETING AND CIRCULATION Tel: 01903 777 570 Subscription enquiries – Laura Harris laura.harris@eljays44.com Tel: 01903 777 580

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@EVOLVE ANDGROW 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 Pro Landscaper is published 12 times per year

by Eljays44 Ltd. The 2020 subscription price is £95. 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 effort 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.

Pro Landscaper is proud to be an affiliate member of BALI

The Association of

Professional Landscapers

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MANAGEMENT Managing director Jim Wilkinson Director Lisa Wilkinson Business development manager Jamie Wilkinson

Pro Landscaper / November 2020

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INFORM

PLANS UNVEILED FOR A GREENER AND MORE ACCESSIBLE REGENT STREET

NEWS

©Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd

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Pro Landscaper / November 2020

offering more unique features, greater comfort, enhanced durability and better value for money than its competitors.

The win drew praise from Real Homes, which commented: “Caribbean Blinds Outdoor Living Pod™ has long been a favourite – and our readers voted overwhelmingly for it. Many were past customers who have been thrilled with their experience of having one of these pods in their gardens.”

The judging panel loved its versatility.

The aluminium louvered roof pergola canopy rotates at the touch of a button, making it water, wind and snow-proof when closed. In beautiful weather, the louvres can be easily positioned to give you shade – or on the Prestige model, will slide right back for full sun. There are optional heavy-duty roller blinds for the sides to protect you from wind and rain (without blocking the view) and even lighting, heating and guttering within the framework so it can be used at night, in the rain, and in the cold. In other words, “this pod makes outdoor living truly achievable.”

Stuart Dantzic, managing director at Caribbean Blinds, comments: “We are thrilled to have won this highly coveted award and for the recognition it brings to our team who strive to innovate and excel, delivering exceptional quality external shading systems that truly enhance lifestyles and stand the test of time.” www.cbsolarshading.co.uk

©BDP

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aribbean Blinds is celebrating a national win at the Real Homes Awards 2020. The Sudbury based external shading expert won the title of ‘Best Garden Buy’ for its most sought-after terrace covering, the Outdoor Living Pod™.

The Real Homes Awards, which attracts hundreds of entries, aim to find and name the very best home products across every category, unveiling the most inspiring ideas and reviewing everything the consumer might need to finish their home.

The Outdoor Living Pod™ scooped the Real Homes top spot in the garden category,

©Caribbean Blinds UK Ltd

CARIBBEAN BLINDS SCOOPS NATIONAL REAL HOMES AWARDS 2020

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he Crown Estate and Westminster City Council have unveiled plans to transform London’s iconic Regent Street. The plans form part of a shared vision to deliver a greener, cleaner, safer and more accessible West End. Set to be completed before Christmas, the new designs will improve safety, accessibility and air quality.

Wider pavements will be introduced, creating approximately 5,000m2 of additional space for pedestrians, to improve visitors’ experience, support social distancing and improve accessibility. Traffic will be reduced, with road space cut to a single vehicle lane in each direction, and cycle lanes will be introduced as well as new cycle parking hubs and stands. Bus stops will be enhanced with accessible boarding and space for waiting.

Sustainable tree planting and greenery will also be introduced helping to boost biodiversity, improve air quality, and further enhance Regent’s Street’s iconic John Nash design. New seating will also be installed, creating places for people to pause and rest. Construction has commenced on the new designs, following on from the measures put in place to widen pavements using temporary barriers.

Nick Edwards, chair of landscape architecture at BDP, says: “The collaboration between The Crown Estate, Westminster City Council and their design team has resulted in an outstanding design solution for this temporary and necessary enhancement to Regent Street. The layout will safely support pedestrian movement whilst ensuring that lush greening and new seating enhances the experience of what is arguably London’s most famous retail destination.

“Planting from Langham Place to Waterloo Place will support London’s Wild West End initiative, make people feel happier and will support retail businesses in the process.” www.bdp.com

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22/10/2020 18:53

INFORM

DEMAND FOR COMPLIANT PUBLIC SPACE BOLSTERS MIDLANDS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

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idlands-based landscape architect Influence has experienced business growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, as demand for compliant outdoor space within commercial developments increases.

The chartered landscape architect and environmental planner has seen a 20% increase in live projects compared with the same period last year, following a surge in commercial enquiries throughout the pandemic.

Due to the introduction of social distancing measures, the requirement for the development of public outdoor spaces has increased, with public realms now requiring specific measures to ensure the safety of its users.

The practice has found that development projects, especially within commercial environments, are beginning to integrate safety measures into designs based upon government guidelines. Examples of the design changes Influence are now working on include wider walkways, more spaced seating and more of a focus on placemarking of areas.

Sara Boland, owner and managing director of Influence, says: “During what has been an incredibly challenging period globally, Influence has put a positive foot forward as our workload has increased.

SARA BOLAND AND SHONA HATTON

“The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in the way we move around public outdoor spaces forever and this has resulted in an increased demand for designs to incorporate safety measures.

“As we offer both planning and design services, we’re getting more enquiries on new schemes as well as our existing projects that need to be adjusted. I’m grateful for the increased demand and incredibly proud of our team who have worked particularly hard during this period. While there will be some bumps in the road ahead, we are performing very well.” www.influence.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF TRADES’ COACH REACHED FINALS OF UK’S BEST BUSINESS WOMEN The Trades’ Coach, Alison Warner, has reached the finals of the UK’s Best Business Women awards for her work supporting trade and construction businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. A former troubleshooter for global brands such as Starbucks, Alison founded Evolve and Grow coaching company in 2010. www.evolveandgrowcoaching.com

GRANT ASSOCIATES DESIGNS LANDSCAPE STRATEGY FOR 1,300 NEW HOMES IN SOUTH DUBLIN Grant Associates is working with Fletcher Priest Architects to design the masterplan for a new community in Dún Laoghaire–Rathdown, South Dublin for developer Quintain Ireland Ltd. When complete, Cherrywood Village will include over 1,300 homes, three public parks and over 50,000 sq ft of amenities as well as schools. www.grant-associates.uk.com

LONDON STONE ACQUIRES CHELMER VALLEY

©Jonathan Ward

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ationwide hard landscaping materials supplier London Stone has acquired Chelmer Valley Brick Co. Ltd. The Essex-based company specialises in the supply of clay pavers to the domestic and commercial markets across the UK. Chelmer Valley was incorporated in 2002

by Paul Menzies, who says: “Chelmer Valley is the UK market leader for clay paving, so it felt like a natural choice to share resources and knowledge with a similar, burgeoning business like London Stone, who are renowned for their excellent service and quality products.

Both businesses share a similar customer base of garden designers, landscapers and

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landscape architects, and we fully expect to see London Stone continuing the curve growth of Chelmer Valley.”

London Stone managing director Steven Walley adds: “London Stone are delighted to announce our first business acquisition. This is a proud and exciting moment for the company, and we aim to continue the outstanding work of Paul and the whole team at Chelmer Valley. We look forward to implementing London Stone’s philosophy of lean business practices and innovation into an established and wellrespected brand like Chelmer.

“We were already a customer of Chelmer Valley’s, so we know their products represent superior quality and great value. This deal has been in the pipeline for a few months and so we are now looking forward to working with the Chelmer team and getting to know their clients.” www.londonstone.co.uk

NEW SURVEY HIGHLIGHTS PUBLIC LOVE FOR NATURE DURING COVID-19 Natural England’s new People and Nature Survey reveals that between April and June, almost nine in 10 adults in England reported that protection of the environment is important to them personally. Nearly three quarters of adults were concerned about biodiversity loss. www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ natural-england

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INFORM

Online Exclusives FIVE REASONS YOU NEED TO BE AT FUTURESCAPE VIRTUAL 2020 1. The seminars The seminar programme, speaker quality and informal debates are one of the main draws. The Pro Landscaper team will once again deliver on topics on the FutureScape, Pro Landscaper and Green Channels.

2. The buzz Its informal atmosphere, tight-knit community, and a brilliant format means that FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020 is a chance to virtually network with others from the landscaping industry.

3. The insight No other event in your landscape calendar will be more informative or invaluable to help you raise your landscaping game – an intense hit of the latest news, debates, insight, developments, challenges and solutions.

4. The people FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020 represents this great big diverse family we call landscaping. There’ll be those starting up, those who have been-there-done-that and those that have yet to show their full potential.

5. A safe and secure event FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020 is committed to producing a spectacular show from the safety and security of your own environment. www.prolandscapermagazine.com/ five-reasons-you-need-to-be-atfuturescape-virtual-2020/

2021 RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW The RHS has announced its plans to safely run the 2021 RHS Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by M&G, with many new precautions due to COVID-19 to protect everyone at the show held at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea.

We speak to RHS director of shows and gardens Helena Pettit and hear from RHS director general Sue Biggs to find out about what measures have been put in place to keep all visitors, exhibitors, designers and contractors safe, as well as how the RHS has planned for all eventualities. www.prolandscapermagazine.com/ 2021-rhs-chelsea-flower-show/

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A NN-MA RIE POWELL J UD GES PL ATI PUS G -WA L L® CO MPETITIO N WHICH INCLUD ES A £ 10 0 0 PRI ZE D O NATIO N FO R PERENNIA L

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ulti-award-winning garden designer Ann-Marie Powell comments on the competition: “What an absolute honour and a total pleasure to judge the Platipus G-WALL® competition with such a generous prize of £1000 to be donated to our industry’s benevolent fund Perennial. Running from June until the end of September 2020, each contestant was given 1m2 of G-WALL and had to design, install and create their own amazing living wall.

“The admissions came from far and wide and I was super impressed by the ingenuity, creativity and professional standards offered by all the submissions. From biodiverse schemes planted to support wildlife, complete with integrated customised bug houses, a wide range of plants from edible to scented, sunshine and shade, every single G-WALL entry was unique, attractive and highlighted the possibilities of this new offering from Platipus.”

The first runner up was Rae Wilkinson – “What a wonderful way to add foliage and form in a challenging shady space. With floor area tight against a wall, a wonderful selection of plants adds texture, form and interest, which will deliver in summer, but in winter too.”

The second runner up was Christine Mulinder – “Designed to attract, promote biodiversity and support pollinating insects

into the space, the plants selected would also improve air quality and add fragrance too.

A wonderful scheme that could work in schools, office gardens, hospital gardens amongst a host of other sites. And that bughouse – fabulous!”

WINNER - KATHARINE GODDARD

The winner was Katharine Goddard – “Strong, bold, year-round texture, this G-WALL made a feature from a challenging space.

A dank, lightless basement is given life with an everchanging tapestry of foliage and flowering plants. The plant selections are wonderful, evergreens, some with reflective leaves to bounce light and lift the spirits, adding lushness, spirit and joy to an otherwise dull, uninspiring wall. This G-WALL would surely lift the spirits to add a sense of well-being and happiness I’d definitely be happy to have this green wall in my garden.”

To see more competition entries, visit page 65. www.ann-mariepowell.com

NEW MINI EXCAVATOR ATTACHMENT IDEAL FOR LANDSCAPE CONTRACTORS

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very landscape contractor has had a day when they wish the 1.7t mini excavator they have on site could unload, or even just move, a fully loaded pallet or 1 tonne bag of hardcore or sand. James Russell from Excavator Forklift (EFL) has come up with a solution – a range of attachments which allow a 1.7t mini excavator to either move

or offload and stack 1.2t pallets or bagged hardcore.

The EFL Type 3 (1.6m lift) and the T3H (3.0m lift) Excavator Forklifts attach to the dipper and connect to the hammer service in less than one minute, with or without a quick-hitch. A Type 3 on a 2.7t machine can lift two tonnes to 1.6m, and a T3H can lift 1.5t to three metres. The EFL Type 4 (left) is designed for contractors who have pallets delivered and offloaded and who only need to distribute pallets around a site. The Type 4 (250mm lift) can carry 1.5t on a 1.7t mini excavator and up to two tonnes on a three-tonne machine. With extra adaptor kits, Types 3 and 4 can fit different excavators. www.excavatorforklift.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/10/2020 20:38

INFORM

AN INTERVIEW WITH

BALI’S NEW CHAIRMAN NEWLY ELECTED BALI CHAIRMAN RICHARD K AY, ALSO CHAIRMAN OF REGISTERED AFFILIATE GREEN-TECH, TALKS ABOUT HIS PLANS FOR THE TRADE ASSOCIATION When and why did you become involved in BALI? As a fledgling business it is important to have support, and this was offered by BALI and its members when we first joined in 1996.

As an established business, the support and networking remain just as important.

I joined the Yorkshire and North East regional committee in 2000 and sat on this for four years. I was invited onto the BALI board of directors in October 2016 before being asked to take the role of vice chairman in 2018. I then had the great honour of being elected national chairman at this year’s national AGM. How do you see your role as national chair?

What are your main goals?

I will be working closely with Wayne Grills (BALI chief executive) and the BALI board of directors to achieve the aims of BALI. My obligation as chairman is to ensure we have good governance. I will ensure that BALI has closer engagement and support for regional committees. I plan to network with all associated landscape industry organisations to promote our fantastic sector and I’ll be promoting and supporting the development of GoLandscape.

How will you work with other organisations and associations?

BALI has close working relationships with all

GREEN-TECH: PROUD PERENNIAL SUPPORTERS

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the major stakeholder organisations through committee and steering groups, such as the APPGHG and the Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group at chief executive level; and has a number of collaborative achievements with more in the pipeline. I will be networking with all associated landscape industry organisations to promote our sector.

What do you see as the most important role BALI can play?

BALI is a membership organisation and its primary role is to support, promote and inspire our 900 members and to ensure they are aware and can readily access all of the support and member benefits BALI offers. These elements are vital for businesses of all sizes, to enable them to flourish.

I PLAN TO NETWORK WITH ALL ASSOCIATED LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY ORGANISATIONS TO PROMOTE OUR FANTASTIC SECTOR How will you encourage new members?

I will be promoting BALI two-fold: to the industry with the benefits of membership where you can share ideas, have access to like-minded businesses and access help and support; and on a commercial level to end-users, highlighting the Code of Conduct all our members sign up to and the reassurance it offers when planning a landscape project.

BALI is sometimes criticised for looking inward; how are you going to increase the organisation’s awareness and its position in the wider UK landscaping world?

I would disagree that BALI is an inwardly looking membership organisation. BALI is very supportive and engages with all other landscape-associated organisations in our

industry. We all have one common goal – to work collaboratively to create beautiful, well designed, well-constructed, diverse landscapes for the built environment. We recognise the importance of that end-to-end collaboration between architects and specifiers and landscape contractors, and have a great relationship with the Landscape Institute.

Who are on the board team behind you?

I will be supported by the vice chairman Nigel Bowcock from Acre Landscapes, honorary treasurer Richard Stone from Bawden Contracting Services Ltd, and Wayne Grills, BALI’s chief executive.

Do you think there is a commercial advantage to Green-tech?

I don’t think being on the BALI board gives you a commercial advantage, but it does give a wider perspective to the inner workings of the industry.

After your two-year stint, what is the single thing you would have liked to achieve?

To see GoLandscape deliver its potential to attract and inspire a diverse range of entrants into a career in any facet of the landscape sector.

What effect will this have on Green-tech?

Have you had to backfill your role?

I have a great team of directors who are all department heads, so it will be very much business as usual. I have paused some interests outside of Green-tech for two years to allow me to focus on and fulfil my national chairman role with BALI.

Pro Landscaper / November 2020

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GARDEN BY LYNNE MARCUS

INFORM

T H E S G D W E LC O M E S NEW CHAIR

LYNNE MARCUS HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED AS THE NEW CHAIR OF THE SGD. HERE, SHE TELLS US ABOUT HER BOLD PLANS FOR THE ASSOCIATION, WITH THE ENVIRONMENT AT THE HEART OF THESE

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his could be the most challenging but also the most interesting time to chair an association. With an ongoing pandemic on her hands and an environmental crisis, Lynne Marcus has taken over the reigns of the Society of Garden Designers (SGD) from Sarah Morgan, and rather than be perturbed by the challenges, she’s eager to get stuck in and make a difference.

“It doesn’t take much to think up something to do for next year, does it? It’s a question of what you can actually do and make a difference with, rather than trying to take on too much,” says Lynne. Supported by vice chair Andrew Duff, who is also managing director at the Inchbald School of Design, Lynne Marcus will chair the SGD for the next three years, and next year is a particularly important one for the

SOUTH DOWNS GARDEN BY LYNNE MARCUS

association. It will be celebrating its 40th anniversary and Lynne will be using this as chance to not only look at the SGD’s history, but also the history of garden design as a whole.

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“We’ll be looking at the ground-breaking work that’s been done by our members and looking ahead to the next 40 years because the world is going to be very different,” says Lynne.

“We’ll be putting all of this right into the history of garden design, exploring the diversity and vernacular from different cultures.”

Lynne became a full member of the SGD around five years ago having started out as a garden designer in the late 90s, and had been a pre-registered member of the SGD for a number of years. She’d originally gained

OUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY IS A BIG OPPORTUNITY FOR US TO BE INCREASINGLY OUTWARD-LOOKING AND PUBLIC-FACING a degree in politics and sociology and worked as an HR director for a firm of chartered accountants before deciding to retrain and utilise her “creative streak”. Lynne is now a sole practitioner with a design style she describes as “quite pared-down”. “Basic design principles are fundamental. Everything is composed with an eye to access views, that’s critical – everything’s aligned with any main point from the house, be it windows or doors or corners of the house.

“I’m not a minimalist planter; for me, every garden should be a garden, and more and more

that’s what clients are requiring now. They want a sense of nature, especially over the past year.”

Increasing pollination and biodiversity, as well as improving permeability, are also strong focuses for Lynne, not just in her design practice but also going forward in her role as chair of the SGD. “We have a significant role to play in informing the public about what to do in their garden, for the wellbeing of people, wildlife and the planet. Our 40th anniversary is a big opportunity for us to be increasingly outward-looking and public-facing, particularly at a time of climate change – we have so much to offer. We’re the best people to get out there and inform the public, as well as to grow the market for our members.”

The SGD will also be looking at how it can continue to provide a digital offering for its members, having taken a vast amount of its content online throughout lockdown. “Over the last few months, we’ve moved so fast for a small organisation to put everything online.

We had more than 300 people at our last online conference, it was magic. All of our CPD is online as is our mentoring for those working their way through the adjudication process.

“We held our AGM online the other day.

Usually, they’re in London. This time, we had people from all over the country and from all over Europe, from Italy, Portugal, Finland, Spain, France. It’s so inclusive, it’s fantastic. We all belong and we all share a part in the society.”

It’s a changing world, and Lynne is keen for the SGD to adapt and to continue to provide its members – and the public – with the best of garden design.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

21/10/2020 21:53

| LOUVERED ROOFS

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21/10/2020 18:59

INFORM

I

owe a thank you to Jim and Lisa for affording me one last opportunity to write in Pro Landscaper upon the occasion of my recent retirement after 34 years in the UK horticulture industry, and 11 years with what is now idverde UK as CEO and, more recently, as chairman.

I had been struggling about a headline for this short piece, as my first attempt – ‘A View from Nowhere in Particular’ – did not look right.

However, I was thinking about all my previous articles over the years, with my attempts to stir up a reaction: the introduction of a bit of climate change denying, all you need is peat, chimpanzees, and frogs! (Excuses à mon cher ami et patron, Hervé). So, apologies to anyone to whom I may have caused offence; I can now let the cat out of the bag, but those who know me will know it was all an act.

OUR INDUSTRY PUNCHES WELL OVER ITS WEIGHT WHEN IT COMES TO THE SKILLS, RESOURCEFULNESS, AND DETERMINATION OF ITS PEOPLE Also, my main reason for wanting to write here was to say a big thank you, so the two just seemed to fit. For those who don’t know, the message above comes from Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series.

The dolphins, you see, had long known of the impending demolition of Earth and had made many attempts to alert mankind to the danger. But most of their communications were misinterpreted as amusing attempts to punch footballs, or whistle for titbits, so they eventually gave up and left the Earth by their own means, their final message being: “So long and thanks for all the fish.” (Although, the final message was again confused with an attempt to do a double backwards somersault through a hoop, whilst whistling the ‘Star-Spangled Banner’).

I have enjoyed performing for anyone who would throw me a metaphorical fish over the years, but of course always with a specific goal in mind.

14

Pro Landscaper / November 2020

News Extra Nick Temple Heald.indd 14

S O LO N G A N D

THANKS FO R ALL THE FISH

A RECENTLY RETIRED NICK TEMPLE-HEALD USES HIS FINAL ARTICLE TO EXPLAIN HIS SOMEWHAT CONTROVERSIAL PIECES IN THE PAST AND TO SAY ‘THANK YOU’

So, where do I begin with the thanks? Not for the fish, but for all the help and support over the years of literally thousands of colleagues, clients, suppliers, competitors etc; some of whom I may have lost touch with, but to whom I am no less grateful. Well, of course one can’t, and if I did start to try and single out individuals, I am bound to miss out someone important.

However, I hope that via this medium I am able to say thanks to many people at once (well, those who bother to read it!) – you know who you are.

I will, however, single out as a group all those idverde colleagues who have been with me on what has been an incredible eleven-year journey from English Landscapes, to The Landscape Group, to idverde, with new people getting on the bus every year. There are now more than 3,500 colleagues in that particular group and the continuing success of the business is down to every single one of them.

Who knows what the future will be for our industry? Right now, at the time of writing, no one is even quite sure what is going to happen tomorrow! What I do know, however, is that our industry punches well over its weight when it comes to the skills, resourcefulness,

WE WILL CONTINUE TO BE THE ONLY INDUSTRY WHERE YOU CAN BE SURE THAT OUR ENVIRONMENT WILL BE BETTER ONCE WE LEAVE A SITE THAN WHEN WE ARRIVE and determination of its people. Sometime soon, COVID-19 will have had its day and will be just another thing that we – sorry, you! – have to manage. The grass will keep growing, people will cherish their open spaces even more, and we will continue to be the only industry where you can be sure that our environment will be better once we leave a site than when we arrive.

As I said in my very first article in Pro Landscaper and quoting Kermit the Frog: “It’s not easy being green,” but I reckon the UK’s green is in good hands. Au revoir et merci pour tous le poissons.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

21/10/2020 11:47

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S P O N S O R E D BY

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S P O N S O R E D BY

M HUNT DESIGN LIMITED C U M B E R L A N D R OA D RACHEL BAILEY GARDEN DESIGN LTD WEST SCOTLAND COASTAL GARDEN ANDERSON LANDSCAPING LTD MCWILLIAMS M I L L B OA R D C U B E

S P O N S O R E D BY

B A R N E S WA L K E R HILL TOP E R Z LT D SPRINGBURN NEW ROUTES

T R AC Y F O S T E R G A R D E N D E S I G N CONTEMPORARY WILDLIFE GARDEN

IMPACT LANDSCAPE STUDIO BRAMLEY BAY

S P O N S O R E D BY

GAREDEN DESIGN & LANDSCAPING THE OUTDOOR ROOM

MARTEN & WRIGHT BUILDING & L A N D S C A P I N G LT D HALE, BRIGHTON S T O N E WO O D WAT E R L I G H T G R A N T O N BY T H E S E A

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Temporary Installation under £25k

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15/10/2020 21/10/2020 14:22 18:57

INFORM

H

ello and welcome to the inaugural UK Landscape Barometer within the pages of Pro Landscaper magazine. This is a UK first for this industry – concise, clear data on how the market is performing against last year.

This month, we will be focusing on August 2020’s results, comparing revenue, profit, enquiries, and jobs worked on in that month, compared to August 2019. We won’t be publishing real figures to protect the anonymity of the participating companies, but we will be reporting percentage increases, decreases, and the like.

As the UK Landscape Barometer evolves, so will the data we are able to produce and report on. Hopefully, in time, the categories and indicators we look at will expand.

For now, though, we are focusing on the vitals that will help you gauge how well your business is doing in comparison to others.

In this issue, we will be focusing on three geographic regions and five different industry specialists: we’re looking at Scotland and the North of England, the Midlands, and the South.

We’ve acquired businesses in garden design, domestic landscaping, commercial landscaping, design and build, and nurseries.

If you would like to contribute to the UK Landscape Barometer moving forward, we would welcome your input. Please send an email to Joshua Chew on Joshua.chew@eljays44.com or give him a call on 01903 777 570.

We’ll be back next month, but for now, here are August 2020’s figures.

NATIONAL STATISTICS OVERALL TURNOVER VS. AUGUST 2019

OVERALL CONFIDENCE 10%

4%

Less 31%

42%

Equal More

17%

No response

8%

15%

15%

Higher 62%

No response

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

UK Landscape Barometer.indd 19

Equal Higher

OVERALL PROFIT VS. AUGUST 2019

50%

15%

OVERALL FULL-TIME STAFF VS. AUGUST 2019 9%

52%

Higher No response

Higher No response

Lower 38%

Lower Equal

10%

Lower Equal

27%

No response

7%

OVERALL ENQUIRES VS. AUGUST 2019

8%

Lower 48%

41%

OVERALL PROJECTS VS. AUGUST 2019

24%

Lower Equal

38%

Higher 29%

No response

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 19

22/10/2020 17:14

INFORM

Confidence The main split in confidence is between Scotland and the North, with 72% of respondents feeling less confident compared to the 67% of respondents feeling more confident in the South. The Midlands has a more even split between each option.

Turnover Overall turnover vs August 2019 is up 7%. The South had the greatest increase of turnover on average compared to last year with a 198% increase.

GARDEN DESIGN

DESIGN AND BUILD

CONFIDENCE

CONFIDENCE

20%

20%

More 40%

Number of projects The number of domestic projects being worked on is roughly the same compared to August 2019.

The number of commercial projects is down by 7% for the same period. For design and build companies, it is roughly the same

20 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

UK Landscape Barometer.indd 20

17%

40%

17%

No response

NATIONAL TURNOVER VS. AUGUST 2019

33% 50%

Lower Equal

Higher

60%

Equal More

33%

No response

Lower

Less 33%

NATIONAL TURNOVER VS. AUGUST 2019

No response 17%

NATIONAL PROJECTS VS. AUGUST 2019 20%

60% Conversion rate Though the number of enquiries that most companies are receiving is high, we can see a decrease in conversion rate from enquiry through to contract when compared to August last year. There are some exceptions to this, however, as you can see.

Less Equal

Profit 52% of respondents stated a decrease in profit when compared to August 2019, with 38% stating an increase instead.

Enquiries The number of enquiries companies are receiving is higher than August 2019 across each region and sector, except for design and build companies in the Midlands.

Garden designers have seen a huge 223% increase in enquiries compared to the same time last year.

Many companies from all sectors have commented an increase in enquiries which is reflected in the figures.

20%

20%

NATIONAL PROJECTS VS. AUGUST 2019 16%

Lower

Lower 17%

Equal Higher

67%

NATIONAL ENQUIRIES VS. AUGUST 2019

Higher

NATIONAL ENQUIRIES VS. AUGUST 2019 16%

20%

Lower

Lower Higher 80% 60%

Equal

17% 67%

Equal Higher

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/10/2020 17:18

INFORM

DOMESTIC LANDSCAPERS

COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPERS

NATIONAL CONFIDENCE

NATIONAL CONFIDENCE 10%

40%

Number of full-time staff Most domestic landscaping companies, as well as design and build companies, have the same or more full-time staff as August last year.

Less Equal

Less More

60%

20%

on average compared to August last year. Garden designers are working on 11% more projects compared to August 2019.

20% 50%

NATIONAL TURNOVER VS. AUGUST 2019

More No response

NATIONAL TURNOVER VS. AUGUST 2019 10%

20%

Lower Equal

20%

60%

Lower Higher

30% 60%

Higher

NATIONAL PROJECTS VS. AUGUST 2019 20%

20%

NATIONAL PROJECTS VS. AUGUST 2019 10%

Lower

Lower

Equal 20% 40%

Higher

40% 40% 10%

NATIONAL ENQUIRIES VS. AUGUST 2019

Equal

60%

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

UK Landscape Barometer.indd 21

20%

Lower Equal

Higher No response

No response

NATIONAL ENQUIRIES VS. AUGUST 2019 10%

20%

Equal Higher

No response

20%

No response

20% 50%

Higher No response

Nurseries On average, nurseries have seen a strong summer trading period with continued business, especially considering COVID-19 and lockdowns. Demand is high and there are shortages of some stock. One nursery mentioned trees and English shrub liners being difficult to get now.

Nurseries are predicting these trends to continue over winter and into spring, with perhaps increased shortages of stock next year, should COVID-19 continue as it is. Some slight delays are expected due to Brexit, however, nothing as major as the difficulties that COVID-19 is causing.

Should demand remain high like it is and stock become harder to acquire, prices are set to rise.

An increase in unemployment rates in the UK could see demand fall, which would counter the decreased stock levels.

Garden design Overall, garden designers have seen an increase in turnover of 29% compared to August 2019.

60% said they have increased their profits this month compared to August 2019.

In terms of enquiries, nationally, garden designers are showing a staggering 223% increase in enquiries compared to August 2019, with companies in Scotland and the North of England having received 425% more enquiries than last year. The South of England, however, has seen a 33% reduction in enquiries for the same period.

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 21

22/10/2020 17:19

INFORM

Garden designers worked 12% more projects than in August 2019.

Interestingly, the conversion from enquiries to work has increased nationally by 4% compared to August 2019.

Design and build landscapers Design and build businesses reported a 16% decrease in turnover year on year. The South of England’s design and build businesses are however showing a 5% increase in turnover against August 2019.

33% of design and build companies increased their profits against August 2019.

Enquiries have gone down by 22% nationally, with design and build businesses in the Midlands showing a 70% decrease.

Number of projects being worked on in August 2020 was roughly the same as August 2019.

Domestic landscapers Domestic landscapers had a mixed results.

60% of domestic landscapers nationally have more confidence in the market. Overall turnover was roughly the same against August 2019, with the South of England’s domestic landscapers showing a 5% increase year on year.

Scotland and the North Overall, the confidence in Scotland and the North is lower now compared to August 2020.

There has been an increase of 4% in turnover from August 2020 compared to August 2019.

Nationally, as enquiries have increased by 17% compared to August 2019. The number of projects worked on in August 2020 stayed the same. Finally, the conversion rate from enquiry to job has decreased nationally by 15% compared with August 2019.

The Midlands 43% of respondents stated equal confidence in the industry now compared to August 2020, with another 43% stating more confidence.

There has been an increase in turnover of 9% compared to August 2019.

Commercial landscapers Nationally, 30% of commercial landscaping companies have increased their profit in August 2020 against August 2019. However, commercial landscapers have seen an average decrease of 7% against August 2019.

On the plus side, enquiries are up by 11% against August 2019, with the South showing a strong 18% increase in enquiries year on year.

In terms of actual projects worked on in August 2020, there was a 7% decrease against August 2019. The national conversion rate against August 2019 was almost the same, with the Midlands seeing a 22% decrease.

The South of England did, however, see a 24% increase in conversions year on year.

Interestingly, 75% of commercial landscapers in the midlands reduced their full-time staff numbers in August 2020 compared to the year before.

The South Companies in the South are the most confident with 67% feeling more confident now than they were in August 2020. Turnover was up by 198% on average compared to August last year.

Overall, it appears as though the landscaping industry is coping reasonably well and, though it was close, there was more confidence than not. We look forward to seeing these each month and finding the trends happening over time, and hope you do too.

If you’d like the full report, or to contribute, contact joshua.chew@eljays44.com or 01903 777570 INFORM

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If you’re interested in taking part in the UK Landscape Barometer, or if you would like to read the full report, please contact Josh Chew at joshua.chew@eljays44.com or call 01903 777570

22 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

UK Landscape Barometer.indd 22

33%

17:2

2

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/10/2020 17:29

INFORM

67% 300% Design and build landscapers in the Midlands saw a

of the respondents in the South of England are more confident in the market as you’re reading this than they were in August 2020

increase in the conversion rate from enquiries to jobs in August 2020 year on year

72% 66% 100%

of the respondents in Scotland and the North of England are less confident in the market right now than they were in August 2020

of nurseries in the UK landscaping market saw a rise in profit year on year

of garden designers in the South of England are more confident in the market right now than they were in August 2020

Garden designers in Scotland and the North of England saw a 3% increase in number of jobs being worked on in August 2020 compared to the previous month

75%

of commercial landscapers in the Midlands had less staff in August 2020 compared to August 2019

Design and build landscapers in the South saw the number of jobs being worked on in August 2020 increase by a third year on year www.prolandscapermagazine.com

UK Landscape Barometer.indd 23

60% of garden designers nationally saw an increase in projects in August 2020 compared to August 2019

60%

Although overall turnover was up

Design and build landscapers nationally saw a

33% increase

in profits in August 2020 compared to the previous year Domestic landscapers in Scotland and the North of England saw a

7% 10% in August 2020 year on year, there were more respondents that reported a decrease in turnover than an increase

increase

in enquiries in August 2020 compared to July 2020

198% The market in the South of England saw a

increase in turnover in August 2020 year on year

of garden designers nationally saw an increase of profit year on year Pro Landscaper / November 2020 23

22/10/2020 17:22

INFORM

Sandbanks peninsula Poole, DORSET

WITH THE FOURTH HIGHEST LAND VALUE IN THE WORLD, SANDBANKS PENINSULA IS A PRESTIGIOUS PART OF ENGLAND’S COASTLINE. THREE DIFFERENT PROJECT SITES ON THIS PENINSULA WILL BE TRANSFORMED, WITH GREEN SPACE EXPANDED AND ECOLOGY AT THE FOREFRONT.

L

ittle over 1km2, Sandbanks peninsula crosses the mouth of Poole Harbour and is known for its award-winning beach and high property prices. It’s main road, Panorama Road, has been dubbed ‘millionaire’s row’ while the peninsula itself has the fourth highest land value, by area, in the world.

At three separate sites situated on the prestigious Sandbanks Peninsula, RIBA architects ARC Architecture are developing a 171-bedroom hotel with enhanced facilities including an outdoor pool and roof top terrace, blocks of 119 residential apartments with

THE AIM WAS NOT ONLY TO RETAIN AND STRENGTHEN WILDLIFE ALREADY PRESENT IN AREA, BUT CREATE ADDITIONAL HABITATS

Collaboration is key at The Landscape Service.

At Sandbanks Peninsula, it is responsible for developing a successful biodiversity and initial landscape design enhancements for these brand-new sites.

“The three sites currently offer little in terms aesthetical or ecological value,” explains director a restaurant, gym and spa, Luke Mills. “They are dominated by hardscape, with and a 38 suite apart-hotel with no significant soft landscaping, a roof top restaurant. Each minimal native species development will showcase and minimal wildlife activity G R E E N S PAC E beautiful panoramic views recorded on site.” The plans Harbour Heights of the iconic coastline and for the new sites will not only Existing green space: 1,561m2 significantly enhanced outside increase visual quality of New green space: 2,673m2 space, benefitting residents the landscaping, but more and the local economy. importantly its ecological value.

Haven Hotel Though The Landscape The sites are perfectly Existing green space: 734m2 Service was only established situated to make the most New green space: 6,862m2 in 2017, it has quickly established of the surrounding local a reputation for creating wildlife, with neighbouring Sandbanks Hotel landscapes that put landscape nature reserves of Existing green space: 560m2 and architecture in harmony.

Studland, Brownsea Island, New green space: 2,992m2 The business may be new, Luscombe Valley and RSPB but the team has decades of Arne.“Working with the local experience. The company prides itself on environment was vital in respecting Dorset’s having no house-style, looking instead at iconic coastline,” explains Luke. “The aim was every single landscape as unique – not only to retain and strengthen wildlife already creating a scheme to match. present in area, but create additional habitats,

24 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

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SANDBANKS HOTEL

3 SITES 12,527m 2 INCREASE OF

9,672m 2

TO GREEN SPACE

51% NATIVE SPECIES

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22/10/2020 17:25

INFORM

P R OJ ECT D E TA I L S Biodiversity enhancement The Landscape Service Development company Foritudo Architects ARC Architecture Planning consultants Pure Town Planning Environmental consultants Abbas Ecology HARBOUR HEIGHTS

encouraging new wildlife species to the local area further increasing the biodiversity.”

Currently in the planning stage, the proposals have been developed to mirror the plant species already present in the surrounding nature reserves and Poole’s local character. These include Elymus arenarius or sea lyme-grass, Ammophila arenaria, commonly known as marram, Carex arenaria and Calluna vulgaris – among many more. The use of 51% native species will be specified on all new planting with bespoke green roof and wildflower planting mixes, seamlessly connecting the sites with the surrounding landscape.

WORKING WITH THE LOCAL ENVIRONMENT WAS VITAL IN RESPECTING DORSET’S ICONIC COASTLINE

HAVEN HOTEL

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The new developments will dramatically increase opportunities to encourage wildlife on the sites with larger areas of soft landscaping. The approximate total area of green space over the three sites will be 12,527m2, with an increase of 9,672m2 from what is currently on site, providing a great opportunity to support the local wildlife and to the compliment the visual appearance of the outstanding architecture.

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 25

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21/10/2020 23:23

INFORM

Let ’s Hear it From

NIK EDSER

DIRECTOR, LANGDALE LANDSCAPES NIK EDSER WAS ENCOURAGED INTO THE INDUSTRY BY A FORMER BOSS, TODAY HE WANTS TO OFFER THE SAME INSPIRATION AND SUPPORT. NIK TELLS US HOW HE DOES THIS, AS WELL AS WHY HIS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW MAIN AVENUE GARDEN REMAINS HIS CAREER HIGHLIGHT.

W

hile rock climbing the Great Langdale Valley in the Lake District, inspiration struck Nik Edser – and so the name Langdale Landscapes was born. But Nik began his landscaping career working for Border Landscapes on Saturday’s. Here, his boss encouraged him to take a course at Merrist Wood College. Once he

YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO KEEP LOOKING FOR THAT WORK, STICK TO YOUR BRAND AND DO WHAT YOU DO WELL finished, he returned to Border Landscapes, working his way up to foreman. Nik thrived running projects and managing a team, but just as he was establishing himself in the company, the UK was hit with a recession.

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Rather than admit defeat, Nik took it in his stride. Travelling to Australia and New Zealand, Nik undertook work on landscaping projects, never losing his passion for the work. When he was back on UK soil, Nik set out finding landscaping work for himself. By the time he had got back from delivering leaflets round his neighbourhood, he already had enquires. “I was only 22, but that taught me a valuable lesson.” explains Nik. “When times are tough, if you go looking for business you can find it.

That’s stuck with me through my whole career.”

This determination has stood Nik in good stead in the 20 years since. No more so, than earlier this year when the industry – and most of the country – came to a standstill. “This was worse than the financial crashes we’ve experienced before because there’s no experience to draw back on,” explains Nik, “I thought it was going to be the end of our business.”

1 Camden Hill project 2 David Harber and Savills, Chelsea Flower Show 2018, designed by Nic Howard

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 27

21/10/2020 16:58

INFORM Taking time out to assess the situation, Nik was once again reminded of the lesson he learnt years before, as enquiries began rolling in. Over the last few months, Langdale Landscapes has never had so many enquiries. “I’m very optimistic now,” Nik tells us. “You always have to keep looking for that work, stick to your brand and do what you do well.”

With this mindset, it’s perhaps not surprising that over the years, Nik has grown Langdale Landscapes from a one-man-band to 22 staff members, from patios and fences to complex garden schemes and Chelsea Flower Show.

IT’S A VERY CREATIVE AND SKILLED INDUSTRY AND WE SHOULD BE REWARDED FOR WHAT WE DO One of Langdale Landscapes biggest breaks came when it was invited to build a garden in Oxford for BBC’s homefront in the garden with Diarmuid Gavin. Assisting with the installation and hard landscaping, Nik and his team went on to work on three gardens for the show.

A garden sat within a cedar structure, inspired by a volcano, sticks in Nik’s mind – and it’s not hard to understand why. Each cedar slat which made up the intricate structure had to be individually measured and cut freehand so they would fit together seamlessly – a mammoth task.

But Nik wasn’t put off by this sort of challenge. “It opened my eyes to what can be achieved,” explains Nik. “The gardens were like nothing I had seen before. They were all very striking and very bold which has helped shape the company, as we always look to push the boundaries with design.” Indeed, when it comes to projects, Langdale Landscapes never shies away from a challenge. In fact, it embraces it.

So much so, that it has become known for taking on difficult projects.

One such project was a garden Langdale Landscapes built for a German Huf Haus designed by Nic Howard. With the family living on two levels of the house, the garden was viewed from various different heights. Two gardens had to be designed to accommodate the family’s needs and ensure they were all able to enjoy the views. Another split-level garden with difficult levels to resolve earned Langdale Landscapes Gold at the APL Awards.

“We excel when it comes to challenging gardens,” explains Nik. “Nowadays, people are building a lot of houses in their back gardens.

This means most the gardens we do have challenging access – for one we’re doing now, you can just about fit a wheelbarrow through.

But that’s where our project management comes into its own and we can get things running like clockwork.”

No project was more challenging though, than Nik’s career highlight – Chelsea Flower Show. In 2016, Nik was asked to assist Nic Howard on a garden he was designing with David Harber for Chelsea Flower Show. The first year Nik and his team built the trade garden, it received Best Trade Stand in Show; the following

year, the Director General’s Trade Stand Award.

It’s not surprising then, that when David and Nic decided to do a show garden on Main Avenue, Langdale Landscapes weren’t far behind.

“Chelsea was always a benchmark of where I wanted to be,” Nik tells us. “To get to build a garden on Main Avenue was amazing, it was a whole different kettle of fish.” The design for The David Harber and Savills Garden was a garden theatre – the planting and sculptures told a narrative. Its focal point was a sculpture of

Aeon representing the earth’s nucleus of energy that keeps our planet in a state of equilibrium. It could be seen through rusted metal screen and enveloping planting, sculptures evolved geometrically as the eye is drawn to the nucleus, representing a worm hole in time.

As is the case with every Chelsea Garden, the biggest challenge for Langdale Landscapes was timing and logistics. “The deadline is the deadline, there’s absolutely no missing it, and you’re building gardens which really should take twice the amount of time,” explains Nik. Though

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INFORM

the garden only won Bronze – a disappointing and unexpected result for the team – the garden was heavily featured on the BBC and it even featured on the front page of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2020 calendar. “It is a fantastic experience, whatever the outcome,” Nik tells us. “You’re getting to mix with the best of the best and learn from them – it’s the Oscars of the landscaping industry!”

The creativity this industry has to offer – often showcased at the likes of Chelsea Flower Show – is one of Nik’s favourite things about it. With designs pushing the boundaries of imagination and the quality of materials on offer at their highest, for Nik, there’s never been a more exciting time to do the work he does, and he’s glad there are outlets to show it off.

“I have masses of time for the APL,” Nik tells us.

“The APL awards have also been fantastic for us as a company, and it’s a real chance for my team members to assess the quality of their work against some of the big hitters. I always make sure I take the whole company to award ceremonies, as it’s a great moment for them to reflect and see their work be recognised.”

Despite the immense talent within the industry, for Nik, people don’t value what they do enough. “As an industry, we’re fairly poorly paid,” explains Nik. “It’s a very creative and skilled industry and we should be rewarded for what we do.” By collectively valuing the industry for how great it is, Nik hopes many challenges that it faces will be lessened.

And, no challenge is more so than attracting new people – a common conundrum. Many individuals and associations are making changes, but for Nik, it’s a somewhat simple solution and one which he’s familiar with. “My boss was the one who got me into this industry, I wouldn’t be here without him. He gave me an opportunity that I’ll always be thankful for,” Nik tells us.

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IT’S THE RESPONSIBILITY OF COMPANIES LIKE US TO SEARCH FOR YOUNG TALENT, AND ENCOURAGE AND SUPPORT THEM It was the encouraging conversations and consistent desire to develop Nik that encouraged him to pursue his career. Today, he returns the favour once given to him.

“He was a real advocate for developing young talent,” explains Nik. “It’s something I’m keen to do for my guys now. If I see people who are keen to progress, then I will stand behind them 100%. It’s the responsibility of companies like us to search for young talent, and encourage and support them when we do have them.”

Currently, Nik is looking for apprentices and young people to join his company, with one having started recently, giving one of his labourers the opportunity to take on more responsibility and work on other skills. This is

something which has given Langdale Landscapes an incredibly high retention rate – as well as the nickname ‘Langdale Landscapes Academy’ – with some of his team having been working at the company for 18 years. In the future, Nik plans to forge on with his goals of training young talent, with the hopes of one day bringing garden design inhouse.

Getting young people excited about the industry may be challenging, but for Nik, it begins with him.

3+6 Camden Hill project (won Best in Show £100-£175k category at the APL awards 2020) 4 Plaxtol project (won a Gold at the APL Awards 2018 £60-£100k) – Image ©Nicola Stocken 5 Huf Haus project – Image ©Leigh Clapp 7 David Harber Chelsea Flower Show 2016, designed by Nic Howard 8 Huf Haus project – Image ©Leigh Clapp

C O N TA C T Langdale Landscapes, Westering,Hever Road, Bough Beech, Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7NT Tel 01732 651134 Email nik@langdalelandscapes.co.uk

www.langdalelandscapes.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 29

21/10/2020 17:24

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Live.Life.Outside.

21/10/2020 23:08

INFORM

WELCOME TO

F

utureScape returns in 2020 to deliver the first ever virtual event for the UK landscaping industry. The FutureScape VIRTUAL event will offer many of the aspects you love most about FutureScape, this time delivered from the comfort of your desktop.

Networking – the easy-to-navigate directory allows our attendees to filter and connect with the most relevant and important industry contacts. If you are a designer that’s keen to locate a landscaper, or a commercial landscaper looking to get in touch with architects, then using the filter tool will help you to achieve this. You can then simply contact them through the messaging system or schedule a meeting.

Learning – FutureScape has always maintained a reputation for its exceptional content programme and for having the capabilities of bringing together a diverse range of viewpoints from across the industry. The virtual event will feature a range of pre-recorded, live and interactive sessions throughout the three days. Be sure to add the topics you are most interested in to your agenda for reminders on when the session will start.

Sourcing – the show will feature 100 different suppliers to the landscaping industry. It’s vital that you visit these ‘virtual booths’ for better pricing, special offers and a whole selection of unique materials available to the professional landscaping trade. There will be scheduled times throughout each day where you can jump on a Zoom call with an exhibitor or you can schedule any time outside of these slots that works best for you.

We really look forward to seeing our visitors gain value from attending the FutureScape VIRTUAL event and as ever, we will be on hand to help along the way. So, all that’s left is to register online now at www.futurescapevirtual.com – we look forward to seeing you on 17/18/19 November 2020.

SPONSORS OF small project BIG IMPACT

SPONSOR OF 30 UNDER 30: THE NEXT GENERATION

Headline sponsor

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SPONSOR OF THE SUMMIT

SPONSOR OF THE THE BATTERSEA POWER STATION PROJECT SEMINAR

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 31

23/10/2020 09:51

INFORM

SEMINAR PROGRAMME TUESDAY 17 NOVEMBER

Headline sponsor

PRO LANDSCAPER CHANNEL 9:30 11:00

GREEN CHANNEL

LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY POST COVID-19

Jim Wilkinson will find out whether the UK’s landscaping market will experience a lull in 2021, what effect the virus has had and discuss the future of the domestic and commercial markets.

Jim Wilkinson | John Melmoe | Richard Kay | Phil Jones | Tom Williams | Helena Pettit | Helen Elks-Smith

9:30 11:00

12:00 - TREX AWARDS VIRTUAL 2020 is playing host to the Trex Installer Awards for the third FutureScape 13:00 FutureScape running. Who will walk away with the big prize this year?

14:00 - FUTURE OF DESIGN AND BUILD combined design and build companies the way forward? Pro Landscaper’s head of content 15:30 Are Nina Mason will pose a selection of questions to the panel before opening to the audience.

Nina Mason | David Dodd | Pete Jones | James Scott | Rosemary Coldstream

Which plant options are clients and designers demanding? The panel share what they are experiencing on the plant palette horizon.

Lewis Normand | Liz Hughes | Kristian Reay | Josh Noakes | Simon Sutcliffe

12:00 - GARDENS WITH NATURE AT HEART plantsman Lewis Normand 13:00 Esteemed and a panel of respected garden designers will discuss their thoughts on creating a wildlife-friendly garden, how to encourage clients to keep the garden wildlife-friendly after sign-off.

Lewis Normand | Jilayne Rickards | Charlotte Rowe | Matthew Childs | Ben West

15:30 - ROSEBANK - THE SUCCESS directors discuss running an extremely successful and consistent company.

16:30 Rosebank’s Jim Wilkinson | Matt Keightley | Cameron Wilson

FUTURESCAPE CHANNEL 9:30 11:00

HOT TRENDS AND BLENDS IN HORTICULTURE

HOW TO USE VECTORWORKS TO BE A BETTER DESIGNER

Katarina will show you how you can minimise the need for repetitive drawings, for counting things by hand, and for starting from scratch when the client suddenly wants a big change.

Katarina Ollikainen

12:00 - RHS WISLEY PROJECT Jim Wilkinson speaks to all parties involved in one of the most exciting landscaping projects 13:00 Chair being undertaken in this unmissable webinar.

Jim Wilkinson | Mark Gregory | Matt Keightley | Ann-Marie Powell | Matt Pottage | Alistair Griffiths

14:00 - THE GREAT NURSERY DEBATE many different pressures affecting 15:30 With the supply of plants at present, the panel will discuss what the biggest issues are and how they will overcome them.

Jim Wilkinson | Lewis Normand | Richard McKenna | Mark Straver | Robert Crowder

15:30 - THE ART OF MANAGING AND 14:30 MOVING TREES

14:00 - Q&A WITH RUTH KNIGHT, PRINCIPAL POLICY AND PROGRAMME OFFICER, 15:30 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE, GLA

Jim Wilkinson hosts a Q&A with Ruth Knight about the recently commissioned report on London’s green spaces.

Jim Wilkinson | Ruth Knight

15:30 - HELPING YOU DESIGN YOUR FUTURE HIGH STREETS tree enthusiast Howard Gray believes we all are responsible for providing urban canopies 14:30 Urban and that all sectors of the industry need to work together to ensure they continue to thrive.

Trees play an important role in every landscape. But what if a tree that you’re keen to retain is not quite where you want it? Is it possible to move the tree with little affect on its health? Lewis Normand discusses the intricacies involved with moving and managing trees with Steve McCurdy and Deric Newman.

Lewis Normand | Steve McCurdy | Deric Newman

Howard shares his views on the role trees can play in high street design going forward.

Howard Gray

WEDNESDAY 18 NOVEMBER PRO LANDSCAPER CHANNEL 10:00 - ONE TO ONE WITH PERENNIAL Find out what Perennial can do for the industry, and what Perennial 11:30 needs from the industry to put in place its programmes.

14:00 - COMMERCIAL PLANTING AND MAINTENANCE Chair Lewis Normand discusses planting schemes within commercial 15:30 landscaping projects with the panel, discussing any trends, tricks,

11:30 13:00

17.00

Nina Mason | Kate Cooney

WILLERBY LANDSCAPES: THE SUCCESS

Jim Wilkinson speaks to two Willerby directors to delve into what makes them one of the most successful, consistent businesses in the industry.

Jim Wilkinson | Rick Davies | Ben Parfitt

issues and solutions from within this soft landscaping specialism.

Lewis Normand | Ken White | Vince Edwards | Nick Coslett

small project BIG IMPACT SPONSORED BY Awards presentation

small project

32 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

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BIG IMPACT

23/10/2020 10:15

INFORM

FUTURESCAPE CHANNEL

GREEN CHANNEL

10:00 - THE BATTERSEA POWER STATION PROJECT, 11:30 SPONSORED BY BOURNE AMENITY

10:00 - THE GREAT GREENING DEBATE This debate, hosted by Pro Landscaper’s Rachael Forsyth, will focus 11:30 on the best ways to utilise space in urban areas when it comes to

One of the flagship webinars at this year’s FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020, The Battersea Power Station project will be delved into, with input and discussion from the landscape architect, designers and contractors involved. This is one of the biggest landscaping projects in central London that this market has seen in a while and the prestigious panel have a lot to talk about!

Jim Wilkinson | Andy Sturgeon | Thomas O’Mahoney | Liam Hawkins | Ben Walker | Matt Ainscow | Sarah Banham

11:30 13:00

MENTAL HEALTH

Rachael, Pro Landscaper’s deputy head of content, will host a panel of industry experts regarding identifying, supporting and dealing with mental health within the landscaping sector.

Rachael Forsyth

14:00 - THE GREAT STONE DEBATE Stone plays a massive role within the UK landscaping sector. Here, the 15:30 panel will discuss type of product available from the UK and overseas

landscaping. The panel, each specialists in their own right, will share their thoughts.

Rachael Forsyth | Dusty Gedge | James Hewetson-Brown | Chris Bridgman | Richard Sabin

11:30 - GETTING THE SOIL RIGHT WHEN PLANTING The UK’s top soil expert Tim O’Hare discusses the many different 13:00 types of soil available to the market, and why it’s vital to a landscaping scheme to make sure the soil selection is fit for purpose.

Tim O’Hare

14:00 - CREATING URBAN GREEN SPACES WITH PLATIPUS SOLUTIONS 15:30 LANDSCAPE Global Landscape Solutions Manager Carl Reeders will host a webinar

and will look at what stone is suitable for each project.

Jim Wilkinson | Steve Walley

on behalf of Platipus Landscape Solutions. He’ll discuss green spaces within urban environments, and how the company can help supply and offer advice.

Carl Reeders

THURSDAY 19 NOVEMBER

GREEN CHANNEL 9:30 11:00

PRO LANDSCAPER CHANNEL 9:30 11:00

11:00 12:00

LANDFORM CONSULTANTS: THE SUCCESS

Another vastly successful business in the UK’s landscaping sector will go under the microscope. Jim Wilkinson speaks with Landform’s top people about RHS Chelsea, success in the domestic projects, and how the business got involved with a number of overseas projects.

Jim Wilkinson | Mark Gregory | Rudi Swanpoel | Matt Moore

THE VALUE OF ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP

During times of struggle, having a crutch to lean on can be the difference between sinking or swimming. The UK’s landscaping associations can be that crutch for your business. Jim Wilkinson speaks to the highly regarded Phil Tremayne of the APL about what the association can do for your business, the support it offers and why small businesses in particular should belong to the APL. Jim Wilkinson | Phil Tremayne

13:00 - DIVERSITY IN LANDSCAPING cation in landscaping is paramount. Nina Mason and the panel will explore how the sector 14:00 Diversifi can become more diverse and the steps that need to be taken for this to be achieved.

Nina Mason

14:00 - STAFFING THE INDUSTRY Staffing is often on the list of most problematic aspects of running a business. It’s cited as the most 15:30 difficult part of managing teams and is the cause of most business owner’s sleepless nights. The

9.30 11.00

The Landscape Institute

REGENERATING THE HIGH STREET

11.00 12.30

The Landscape Institute

Working together in a partnership offers lots of positives – fresh ideas, new solutions to old problems and support to name a few. We find out how Mark Latchford & Ben Holland bring the best out of their landscaping schemes.

Mark Latchford | Ben Holland

13:00 - THE GREAT SOIL DEBATE Jim Wilkinson speaks with a panel 14:00 Chair of experts. Soil is at the heart of almost all landscaping projects, are we choosing the correct soil for the right price in the right environment?

Jim Wilkinson | Tim O’Hare | John Coles | Drew Wetherell | Andy Spetch | Mark Wood

14:00 - WIFI CONTROLLED IRRIGATION Ganning, area manager for Hunter 15:30 Mark Irrigation talks through the technology of WiFi controlled irrigation, where the system could be integrated and how this system could benefit your landscaping plans.

Mark Ganning

HEALTH BENEFITS OF GREEN SPACE

13:00 - INCORPORATING SUSTAINABILITY THROUGOUT YOUR BUSINESS Taylor, director of Hosta Consulting, offers her advice, tips and tricks to make sure that 14:00 Helen sustainability is a recurring theme within your business.

17.00 17.30

Helen Taylor

14:00 - THE GREAT DECKING DEBATE hear from some of the top suppliers in the decking market who will share trends, designs, 15:00 We solutions and much more from this sector.

Rachael Forsyth | Karl Harrison | Lee Heitzman | Chris King | Stefan Holmes

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Are landscapers and garden designers missing a trick by not adding some additional finishing touches? Not only could this make the garden sing, but it could unlock potential profit for these landscapers and designers.

Nina Mason | Catharine Barratt | Stuart Dantzic | Ross Worrod

11:00 - ARCHITECT AND LANDSCAPE 12:00 DESIGNER, WORKING TOGETHER

panel discusses how the industry can pull together to ease the pain of recruitment.

Jim Wilkinson | Marian Barker | Simon Jacob | Jason McKenzie | Stephen Ensell

FUTURESCAPE CHANNEL

FINISHING TOUCHES – HOW TO MAKE MORE MONEY

17.30

30 UNDER 30,

THE NEXT GENERATION SPONSORED BY GREEN-TECH Awards presentation

THE SUMMIT

SPONSORED BY FRESH HORTICULTURAL CAREERS

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 33

23/10/2020 10:15

INFORM

HOW IT WILL WORK Your step-by-step guide to FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020 1) Register for your login at www.futurescapevirtual.com.

2) Click the link from your email to activate your account.

This will take you to your profile where you can complete the required information.

3) Visit the ‘Agenda’ page and then click the (+) button on the sessions you wish to attend – this will add them to your personal agenda and set up email notifications as to when these sessions will start.

4) Browse the ‘People’ directory and connect with contacts to build your network.

5) Visit the ‘Virtual Expo’ of trade stands by clicking on the tab to open the map.

Here, you will be able to view exhibitors and connect with them through the system. You can also schedule zoom meetings to suit a time and date that works best for you or request more product information and view the company’s videos.

6) Join the conversation and add posts to topics that you are interested in. This is a great place to connect with our other attendees.

FAQs Why should I attend FutureScape VIRTUAL 2020?

FutureScape VIRTUAL is the perfect opportunity to network with the landscaping industry in 2020 from the comfort and safety of your own environment.

When will it be taking place?

The event will be live from Tuesday 17 November 2020 until Thursday 19 November 2020.

Do I need to have an account to watch the seminars?

To watch the live and pre-recorded content, ask our speakers and panellists questions, network with industry friends and colleagues and get access to our digital trade stands, you will need to register for an account. You can do so by following the registration link on the FutureScape website (www.futurescapeevent.com) Do I need to pre-register for them?

Pre-registration is open now! Head to www.futurescapeevent.com to pre-register for all updates and access to the website when it becomes live.

Are the sessions live? Can I ask the speakers questions?

We will have a mixture of live sessions and pre-recorded sessions taking place over the three days, each session will give the opportunity for the attendees to submit questions through a simple feature on the website.

SPONSORS OF small project BIG IMPACT

SPONSOR OF 30 UNDER 30: THE NEXT GENERATION

Headline sponsor

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SPONSOR OF THE SUMMIT

SPONSOR OF THE THE BATTERSEA POWER STATION PROJECT SEMINAR

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23/10/2020 10:59

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Platipus Anchors Limited

Champion Timber CORE Landscape Products Crowders Nurseries Derbyshire Specialist Aggregates Earth Wrights English Woodlands Europlanters Ltd Everedge EverRoof® Artificial Green Roof Systems

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Companies correct at time of print.

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 35

23/10/2020 10:42

INFORM

M A R C U S WATS O N REALISTIC OPTIMISM

MARCUS WATSON OF GROUND CONTROL EXPLAINS HOW A CRISIS IS A BALANCING ACT FOR EFFECTIVE LEADERS

A

good crisis…” now there’s a paradox. Few of us would deliberately choose to put ourselves and our organisations in a crisis situation. Yet, paradoxically, a crisis can be the making of an organisation as the collective spirit and endeavour of the team is galvanised and focused on a shared goal.

A crisis can be helpful in making the case for effort, innovation or change abundantly clear. The skill of the leader here is to carefully balance realism and optimism. Too much brutal realism may lead people to believe there is no point carrying on. Too much optimism may lead to despair when an expected solution fails to materialise. For example, some blind optimists suggested COVID-19 would be over by July, then

September, or that we will be able to socialise with our friends and family by Christmas.

Such optimism will undoubtedly contribute to crushing public morale when these arbitrary and artificial milestones are not met.

Now, take the brutal realists’ viewpoint, some of whom said that we will never get rid of COVID-19, that we will have to learn to live with it for ever. This may have led some people to ask: “What’s the point of following the rules when we’re all going to get it anyway?”

We see these extremes play out every day in the media with the consequent negative impact on public mood. The most effective leaders use the paradox to engage and energise

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their colleagues, inspiring them to have the ambition and courage to achieve more than was ever thought possible. They will not let a good crisis go to waste. How do they do this? Simply

THE MOST EFFECTIVE LEADERS USE THE PARADOX TO ENGAGE AND ENERGISE THEIR COLLEAGUES put, they will not choose which side to take – being a brutal realist or an optimist. Instead, they will embrace both feelings in opposition to one another and realise that they are both necessary and interconnected.1 The most effective leaders will be brutally honest about the situation. They will provide the facts and how these relate to their situation.

At the same time, they will offer hope by providing a rational basis for optimism. Not blind optimism, rational optimism. Importantly, they will offer emotional understanding and empathy. This helps build togetherness and collective resolution.

By applying this principle to the coronavirus example above, we could hear something like this: “Coronavirus is new, dangerous and we don’t understand it well. It will affect the way we live for some time to come. To reduce its impact on public health, we will need to curtail our freedoms and limit economic activity with some sectors being badly hit (brutal facts). With investment in research, hard work, patience, by acting together as one and by supporting those most affected, we will prevail. We cannot say exactly when this will be but we have overcome

worse public health and economic crises in the past and we have come out stronger (rational optimism). We know this will be difficult and some will struggle and so we will support as best we can those most badly affected (empathy).”

In this way, leaders are treating people as equal and adults. Most importantly, they offer a clear way to bring people together, united in achieving a common ambition and significantly increasing how people feel engaged and connected to the organisation and its aims.

A very simple way to apply this paradox to our businesses is to openly acknowledge and prepare for the worst but hope for the best based on realism. To be heard and understood, the message must be openly and honestly shared with colleagues a minimum of 19 times in a variety of different ways.2 In this way, we won’t let any good crisis go to waste.

“Stockdale paradox: Why confronting reality is vital to success”, Mike Colagrossi, 15 Nov 2018, https://bigthink. com/personal-growth/stockdale-paradox-confrontingreality-vital-success 2 “It’s Not Nagging: Repetition is Effective Communication”, Marton Jojarth, 19 Jan 2019, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/its-naggingrepetition-effective-communication-marton-jojarth/

1

A B O U T M A R C U S W AT S O N Marcus Watson joined Ground Control in 2011.

By harnessing the power of people and innovation, Marcus believes that business can be a powerful force for good in caring for our environment.

Ground Control was recognised with a Queen’s Award for Innovation, celebrating the company’s application of technology. Putting people at the centre of everything they do, Ground Control was awarded the BALI Employer Excellence award.

www.ground-control.co.uk

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21/10/2020 11:49

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21/10/2020 19:13

INFORM

K AT I E F L A X M A N

HEALTH DESIGN: VALUING NATURE AND LANDSCAPE KATIE FLAXMAN EXPLORES WHAT CAN HAPPEN WHEN LANDSCAPE IS SEEN AS ESSENTIAL, RATHER THAN A LUXURY

T

he link between nature and health dates back to the middle ages.

References to this link can be found in ancient texts, and there is now increasing research beginning to evidence these age-old ideas. This research is importantly formalising something most people already intrinsically know – nature is good for us.

We see the beauty in a sunset, we feel our breath return when we walk an untrodden path and we feel stillness descend as we wander in the shade of a forest. We know our bodies were built for the outdoors and we know it makes us feel well in a way few other things do.

Why is it then that we place so little value on landscape? How have we come to be so disconnected from nature that we view it as a luxury item? Televisions are essential, but plants are a “nice to have”? We need to find a way back from here, and it is my belief that ‘health design’ can be part of the answer.

A big barrier to ‘health design’ in relation to landscape is access to information; being able to give clients the knowledge with which to make informed choices. At Studio 31, we have found that people respond positively to evidence.

They understand and trust in science and when landscape professionals are able provide solid rationale for design decisions, this facilitates both psychological and financial investment in landscape. This, in turn, has a ripple effect of creating healthier spaces for people and the planet in the longer term.

WE NEED TO MOVE NATURE FROM A LUXURY ITEM TO AN ESSENTIAL ONE

An example of this is one of our projects, The Pear Tree Centre, which was commissioned to support people diagnosed with a lifechanging illness. As a charity, the budget for both the building and ongoing running costs was fundraised, in its entirety, by a passionate collective of people. The result of this could have been – as is the case with many projects – that the landscape elements were the first to be value engineered. However, the charity saw nature connection as integral to the project’s success and this meant our involvement was commissioned at the project’s inception, despite, at that point, having limited budget allocated to the garden space.

Being involved at this early stage gave us an opportunity to explore the health needs of the people who would be using the centre, and subsequently, to evidence the health benefits of investment in the landscape for the service users THE PEAR TREE CENTRE and staff. What followed were

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presentations to both the trustees and the wider public, discussing the concepts which underpinned our design and how the garden space could support the centre’s aims and objectives in relation to health.

The trustees’ passions for both nature and health were evident, and they launched a separate fundraising campaign specifically aimed at the outdoor space, investing significant resources in their desire to achieve a healthfocused garden.

We were fortunate to work with such an open-minded and forward-thinking panel of trustees to create a space which is already demonstrating positive impacts on wellbeing of both centre users and staff. However, ‘health design’ is not yet a conventional starting point for design, even within health projects. Investing in landscape in this way still feels like ‘thinking outside the box’. We need to move nature from a luxury item to an essential one and responsibility for doing this is on us as professionals to know and understand the research which underpins ‘health design’. Only then can we begin to translate this into fruitful conversations with clients, and together, begin creating truly healthy landscapes.

A B O U T K AT I E F L A X M A N Katie Flaxman is cofounder and director of Studio 31 Landscape Architects. Studio 31 is an award-winning, adventurous and environmentally conscious landscape architecture practice working across the residential, public realm and health sectors. They use research-led design principles to explore the link between nature and health with the aim to create landscapes which are both better for people and better for the planet.

www.designstudio31.co.uk

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19/10/2020 17:36

INFORM

ANDREW WILSON BEE NATURAL

ANDREW WILSON CONSIDERS THE CHANGING WAY PEOPLE ARE CHOOSING TO LIVE IN OUR COVID-19 WORLD. IT’S NOT ALL GOOD NEWS!

I

t seems that a change in focus is in the air as people consider their future in a world dominated by COVID-19. Most of us now accept that the virus will be with us on a permanent basis even when under control.

As a result, people are much more aware of the desirability of space and fresh air. A house with a garden is now a much more valued proposition than in our pre-COVID world with people relocating to the seaside or into sub-urban and rural communities.

This has generally been good news for garden designers, the majority of whom are busy and seeing an increase in enquiries and commissions. Landscapers are equally benefiting from this buoyancy in the domestic marketplace with the added benefit of mainly outdoor working.

What has become interesting is the sense or perception of a garden from potential clients with little or no experience of a garden. To those within our sector, the sense of living without a garden seems totally alien. We are all aware of the benefits not just of the outdoor space but everything that a garden means or contains and everything that they bring into our lives.

Seasonality, colour, food, perfume all spring to mind. Yes, say our new clients, this is indeed what we seek! Habitats, wildlife, insects, worms also come with the territory we all say.

No say our new clients – we do not want any of that thanks!

If that raised a wry smile, then try this.

We met recently with a new client in the process of moving out of Central London who gave a lowdown on their requirements for their potential garden. All went well until the closing line – “but we don’t want any bees please”.

This remark raised so many alarm bells

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instantaneously and made us wish we had Graham Norton’s famous red chair complete with ejector lever. (That could become the must have item for all garden designers as they interview future clients).

GARDENS ARE ESSENTIALLY OUR INTERFACE WITH THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AND A CONSTANT REMINDER THAT WE ARE PARTICIPANTS IN THAT ENVIRONMENT, NOT ITS MASTER

arrives at such a request. This person has lived on our planet for several decades, has been well educated, has potentially missed all the messages of threats to our planet in almost every media possible but has somehow remained separate from and ignorant of the natural environment.

Gardens are essentially our interface with the natural environment and a constant reminder that we are participants in that environment, not its master. The concept of working with nature and understanding its processes and benefits is the way to good garden design. It is also the way to good health and wellbeing. Take out the bees and where would we be? Any other essential pollinators we are not keen on?

We have not yet decided to take on this commission. With all clients there is a certain amount of hand holding and a certain amount of education, but this feels more extreme.

A return to primary school for some basics on how our planet’s ecosystems work might be a more appropriate course of action. A crash course in how food crops are grown perhaps or a binge viewing of David Attenborough, both showing the importance of insects in our lives.

Always up for a challenge, I think we might just take on the commission in anticipation of changing at least one family’s view of the world around us through the vehicle of their garden, bees and all.

ABOUT ANDREW WILSON

Quite apart from the knee-jerk response as to how one might keep bees out of a garden, there comes an avalanche of questions as to how one

Andrew Wilson is a landscape and garden design consultant, director of the London College of Garden Design, and an author, writer and lecturer.

www.lcgd.org.uk

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 39

19/10/2020 17:03

ADVERTORIAL

VIRTUAL EVENT 17TH-19TH NOV The Arbor Forest Products team will have Trex composite decking samples to hand so you can see the products on screen, and you’ll be able to request a sample pack if you’d like to take a further look.

CELEBRATE TREX COMPOSITE DECKING AT FUTURESCAPE VIRTUAL 2020 FutureScape is a key event in the UK’s landscaping calendar, and although it will be hosted virtually this year it’s still set to offer a fantastic opportunity for landscapers to discover more about the World’s Number 1 composite decking brand, Trex®.

Those attending the virtual event will be able to learn more about the leading decking brand, which is a low maintenance solution and boasts a 25-year residential Trex warranty, as well as eco-friendly credentials – with all products made from up to 95 per cent recycled materials.

Representatives from Arbor Forest Products, which is the sole distributor of Trex Transcend® and the Trex Enhance® ranges, will be available for one hour each morning and one hour each afternoon throughout the three-day event to discuss Trex products. You’ll be able to join the discussion by dropping in via video link, or for a one-to-one chat you can book a time slot – you can even leave the drop-in page and go into a virtual private room to discuss further.

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What’s more, the much-anticipated 2020 Arbordeck Awards will be taking place virtually on the first day of the event. The winners of each category – Best small Trex deck, Best large Trex deck, Best commercial Trex deck, Best Trex design solution, Best Arbordeck softwood timber deck, plus the prestigious Deck of the Year – will be announced at the virtual ceremony on 17th November from 12pm to 1pm, hosted by this year’s head judge and Trex regional sales manager at Arbor Forest Products, Lee Heitzman.

Commenting on the FutureScape Virtual 2020 event, Lee Heitzman said: “FutureScape is always an important event in Arbor Forest Products’ calendar, and while it’ll be held virtually this year it still promises to provide landscapers with valuable industry insight and information. We’re delighted to once more be able to showcase all that Trex composite decking has to offer, and give decking installers the chance to learn more about its product ranges.

“I’m also looking forward to unveiling the winners of the 2020 Arbordeck Awards on the first day of FutureScape – we’ve received a huge number of entries and the quality of the installations we’ve seen has been outstanding, so everyone who has been shortlisted should be very proud.”

For more information on the Arbordeck Awards please visit www.arbordeck.co.uk/awards20 – and you can keep up-to-date with the awards by following Arbordeck on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

23/10/2020 10:27

SHORTLIST With a record number of entries, it’s been another fantastic year for the Arbordeck Awards.

We’re proud to announce the 2020 shortlist – and don’t forget to join us at FutureScape Virtual 2020, where we’ll be revealing the winners!

Best small Trex deck

Best large Trex deck

Best Trex design solution

A Brighter Shade of Green Coulsdon

A Brighter Shade of Green Castlenau

A Brighter Shade of Green Castlenau

Beams and Braces Rackheath

Composite Decking Lifestyles Church End

Composite Decking Lifestyles Church End

Composite Decking Lifestyles Woodlands

North Spas Woodland View

Composite Decking Lifestyles Huntingdon

Composite Decking Lifestyles Huntingdon

Simon Thomas Deck & Design Wedgewood Gardens

Surrey No1 Handyman Warwick

Surrey No1 Handyman St Georges

Best commercial Trex deck

Best Arbordeck softwood timber deck

Beams and Braces Waveney Valley Lakes

North Spas Henson Close

North Spas South View

L.A.W Joinery & Decking Specialist High Street

Surrey No1 Handyman St Georges

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The London Decking Company Twickenham

Simon Thomas Deck & Design Gower Road Surrey No1 Handyman St Georges

Thank you for your entries – we’re delighted to have seen so many high quality decking installations. Join us for our virtual Arbordeck Awards ceremony at 12pm on 17th November, where we’ll be announcing the winners of each category plus the Deck of the Year award.

22/10/2020 15:44

INFORM

B E N W E ST NATURE’S SPOILS

BEN WEST DETAILS THE ‘REWILDING’ OF HIS OWN GARDEN, FROM WHICH HE, HIS FAMILY AND THE LOCAL WILDLIFE HAVE ALREADY REAPED REWARDS

O

f all the global-scale predicaments we currently face, I find biodiversity loss to be the most pernicious.

The systematic, often wilful degradation of the source of our being and the accompanying depletion of the myriad wonders with which it is bejewelled, represent a deep source of personal pain and sorrow.

Last month, we explored the concept of rewilding as an antidote to biodiversity loss and mitigation against the most damaging effects of climate change. I promised to share a snapshot of my garden’s ‘rewilding’ journey, which has so far consisted mainly of adopting a more relaxed attitude to maintenance practices and allowing ‘weed’ species to establish alongside ornamentals.

This approach has greatly benefitted local wildlife and helped my family develop a deeper connection to nature. Through learning the traits and practical applications of the various

wild plants that have taken up residence, they have a visceral understanding of nature’s interconnectedness and their place therein.

Modern life lived through these eyes is a blessing and a curse. There is truly never a dull moment.

THIS APPROACH HAS GREATLY BENEFITTED LOCAL WILDLIFE AND HELPED MY FAMILY DEVELOP A DEEPER CONNECTION TO NATURE Early in the year, hairy bittercress, dandelion and sow thistle add cleansing and nutritional value to our salads. We rejoice in the emergence of wild garlic and include it in all our cooking.

LARGE WHITE EGGS

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Bright rays of flowering coltsfoot attract the first insects of spring such as the intriguing bee fly.

Flowering ground ivy, herb robert and white dead nettle provide uplifting herbal teas.

Moth caterpillars start to show with angle shades feeding on self-seeded buddleia and broad-bordered yellow underwing hiding amongst patches of Cleavers. This plant epitomises the rising of the sap and we drink its juices to cleanse our lymphatic system and shift our metabolisms out of their winter torpor.

Orange tip butterflies are attracted to garlic mustard and we share their caterpillars’ liking for its leaves. They also lay eggs on cuckoo flower which lends a wasabi kick to our salads. Nettles have become a staple food now. Full of nutrients, they combine with fresh vegetables to form the basis for our favourite soup and also feed the larva of the Vanessid butterflies; Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Comma, Peacock and Painted Lady. Their split stems are weaved

EMERGENT CATERPILLARS

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19/10/2020 17:06

INFORM

together to form cord from which trinkets are dangled from children’s necks and wrists.

Bird nesting begins in earnest and our ivy clad fence is well appreciated. Swift boxes set in the brickwork of our gable end fail to attract their target species but are taken up by house sparrows which enjoy the seeds of self-sown oxalis in the borders. Their constant chattering, at odds with the melancholy flute of the blackbird and the quicksilver outpourings of the blackcap in the willow, form the soundtrack to summer.

We embrace unloved elder by making refreshing summer drinks with its flowers and later medicinal syrups with its berries – blackbird and blackcap love it too. The plants that attract the most life are those that have found their own way here, none more so than the much maligned ragwort which is the centre of all insect activity throughout its long flowering period. Burnet companion, mother of pearl and cinnabar moths (and their caterpillars), gatekeeper and meadow brown butterflies and a host of parasitic wasps, hoverflies and bee species are in constant orbit.

I let fade away anything that fails to fend for itself and allow survivors to thrive; purple toadflax is one such survivor and attracts streams of bees through summer including the charismatic wool carder bee. By night, it is festooned with mother of pearl moths and garish toadflax brocade moth caterpillars.

The almost identical larvae of the mullein moth can be found feeding on the foliage of its self-seeded namesake alongside pupating ladybird larvae. Shield bugs are up to no good in the shadows; stag beetles stick to the bricks of the house and demoiselles, damselflies and dragonflies clatter through the deepening foliage.

CATERPILLAR

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All life is here amongst these summer weeds.

Wild medicinal herbs turn up and are infused to make teas: yarrow for sore throats, plantain for coughs, fennel for digestion and mugwort for lucid dreaming. Others are harvested and preserved in alcohol as tinctures to last through the winter: dock root, St John’s wort flowers and prickly lettuce leaves will treat everything from

IF THE GARDEN HAD BEEN WEEDED, MUCH OF THIS RICHNESS OF LIFE WOULD HAVE BEEN LOST AND NEVER HAD THE CHANCE TO ENRICH OUR LIVES SO PROFOUNDLY excitability to lethargy. Prickly lettuce also provides food for small ranunculus moth larvae.

The reviled creeping thistle is a great nectar source for late summer insects and now attracts brown hairstreak butterflies to the garden. Grass snakes slither into the compost heap to lay eggs and hunt for rodents.

Moth numbers are peaking and a trap set up at night is a revelation. We are dazzled by the diversity of colours, patterns textures and forms.

As summer flowers fade into autumn, dark bush crickets continue to fill the night air with whispering chirrups. At this time, ivy comes into its own. Its late emerging flowers are a major fuel source for insects. Stand beside a spunk scented spray on a sunny day in early autumn to see insect theatre play itself out before you. We really must regain our reverence for this plant.

LARGE WHITE COCOON

One image of the unfurling year sticks in my mind. In the spring, I scattered nasturtium seeds in the corner of a raised planter and the rapidly developing foliage became a welcome addition to salads and pesto. Large white butterflies came to lay eggs on the undersides of the leaves.

A great life lesson in lockdown for the kids as we observed the eggs through to the larval stage.

They liked the fact we shared the caterpillars love of the peppery vegetation. As they dispersed to pupate, we searched for, and found, a cocoon and marvelled as the emerging imago pumped up its wings and flew away to continue the cycle.

I wonder if, by embracing rewilding, we are like the caterpillar that, having stripped its food-plant bare and seemingly painted itself into a corner, now undergoes a strange and remarkable metamorphosis to emerge as a useful enhancement to the ecosystem and a jewel for the eye.

One thing is for sure; if the garden had been weeded, much of this richness of life would have been lost and never had the chance to enrich our lives so profoundly.

Follow my journey on Instagram: @wearewherethewildthingsare

ABOUT BEN WEST Ben West spent his formative years exploring the landscapes of Staffordshire, and studied environmental management at Keele University, prior to moving to Surrey and setting up Landscaping Solutions. The firm has since won many RHS medals and BALI Awards. Ben wishes to use his passion for natural landscapes to direct the firm’s future trajectory, and ensure clients consider nature when planning landscaping schemes.

www.landscapingsolutionsltd.co.uk

LARGE WHITE ADULT IMAGO

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 43

19/10/2020 17:06

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21/10/2020 18:54

INFORM

ENGLAND’S

GREEN AND PLEASANT

LAND

WE SPEAK TO SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK’S COUNTRYSIDE AND POLICY MANAGER NICK HEASMAN ABOUT ENGLAND’S NEWEST NATIONAL PARK, AND ITS INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENVIRONMENT STRATEGY LEAD VERONICA CRADDOCK ABOUT AMBITIONS TO ‘JOIN UP’ ITS GREEN AND BLUE SPACES

T

he third biggest National Park in England, South Downs, is known for its chalky white rock, vivid against a lush green landscape – nothing representing this better than the dramatic Seven Sisters cliffs.

The South Downs was formed back when dinosaurs still roamed, between 65 and 100 million years ago.

The layers of chalk also contain bands of flint nodules, once prized as tools, today they are a common feature in the walls and buildings of downland villages.

WE KNOW THAT NATURE IS WITHOUT BOUNDARIES AND THERE’S SO MUCH TO BE GAINED FROM WORKING TOGETHER The 100-mile South Downs Way – walked by humans for 5,000 years – leads you through a stunning mix of farmland, healthland, river valleys, ancient woodland, and thriving villages and towns.

“Despite this rich tapestry of landscape, South Downs wasn’t made a National Park until 2010, despite talk of it potentially becoming one in the 1930s,” countryside and policy manager Nick Heasman tells us. “It really was a passionate campaign and, in the end, the argument was overwhelming to create this new breathing space for such a busy corner of England.”

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INFORM

National Park status In the years since, one of the biggest tasks has been making the public aware of South Downs as a National Park, and in turn, why it’s so important to take care of it. A significant part of accomplishing this has been signage, with 19 entry signs at key locations across Sussex and Hampshire now in place. “It’s a simple thing,” Nick tells us, “but it does NICK HEASMAN help create a welcome, and a sense of place.”

As well as signage, rangers roam around the park to engage with the public to help them enjoy, protect and learn.

Before becoming a National Park, South Downs consisted of two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, but the National Park title has created a robust framework, including planning powers which enable South Downs National

Park Authority (SDNPA) to improve the landscape further – both for people and nature.

As well as planting several thousand trees, installing 48km of new or resurfaced paths – including five ‘Miles Without Stiles’ routes for families and people with limited mobility – it has enabled farmers to work much closer. With over 70% of the National Park farmland, farmers are key custodians. Farmer Cluster Groups see 120

NATIONAL PARKS CAN AND SHOULD BE PLAYING A LEADING ROLE IN THIS NATURE RECOVERY farms collaborate on best practice. This includes providing wildlife habitats such as hedgerows and wildflower margins to encourage pollinators and birds, and working together to improve the quality of soil, air and water.

The adoption of the first ever South Downs Local plan last year replaced more than 1,000 overlapping policies with 92 clear policies covering all aspects of planning. This will no doubt continue to help the National Park’s agenda.

Landscape South Downs is made up of 160 hectares of chalk grassland, heathland, mixed woodland and farmland.

“The chalk grassland is one

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of the most distinctive habitats in the world,” Nick tells us. “At first glance, these open hills seem bare – a few sheep, shrubs and some skimming shadows maybe.

To see its biodiversity, you really need to get close to the ground.” Here, you could find 30 to 40 different species in just on square metre, inspiring late naturalist David Belliamy to describe them as “Europe’s rainforests in miniature.”

One of the most striking wildlife you can find is the Adonis Blue butterfly. As well as a myriad of butterflies and other invertebrate species, you’ll also find some rare plants, such as the round-headed rampion and pyramidal orchid.

Despite the importance of the grasslands, they only cover 4% of the National Park.

SDNPA is working with a range of local partners to protect what remains and reverse this process of decline.

South Downs is the most wooded of any National Park in England and Wales, with a quarter of its land covered. Perhaps the most famous is Kingley Vale’s ancient Yew forest.

There are many differing tales about the age of the forest. Some say they were planted to make longbows in the Middle Ages, while others that they commemorate dead Vikings from the 9th Century, while others estimate that they date back to the Roman invasion. Whatever their true age, the twisting Yew trees are some of the oldest living things in England.

The farmland forms an important area for many species of wildlife, including rare wildflowers and nationally declining farmland birds. By managing their land through environmental stewardship schemes, farmers are supporting the recovery of species such as corn bunting, skylark, lapwing and grey partridge.

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22/10/2020 18:47

INFORM

Biodiversity South Downs encompasses a total of 1,024 designated conservation sites, including a total of 85 sites of Special Scientific Interest with some of the highest levels of wildlife protection in the world.

ONE OF OUR BIGGEST STRENGTHS HERE AT THE SOUTH DOWNS NATIONAL PARK IS THE SHEER PASSION PEOPLE HAVE FOR THIS VARIED AND DYNAMIC LANDSCAPE The SDNPA has had many biodiversity successes over the years. Some such success have been the reintroduction of the water vole into chalk stream habitats such as the River Meon and helping to improve resilience for species like the field cricket and barn owl.

“While we’re doing great work, biodiversity across the planet is facing an unprecedented threat and we know that much more needs to be done for nature across the board.” Nick tells us. “National Parks can and should be playing a leading role in this nature recovery. As Sir David Attenborough recently attested, nature is no longer a ‘nice to have’ – it’s our greatest ally.”

PANN The People and Nature Network (PANN) has one real aim – to support nature so that it can support us. In 2015, an Access to Nature Study identified gaps in the provision of accessible natural space as well as sensitive sites which were currently under threat from enormous recreational pressure.

“The National Park is in the busy south-east of England and there’s enormous pressure for development around the National Park,”

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Veronica Craddock, infrastructure and environment strategy lead, explains. “As the population grows, will all need to have access to nature and the benefits that it offers. It is a social equity issue.”

The network aims to ‘join up’ green and blue spaces which support both the needs of the community, and natural ecosystems through the planning, delivery and management of green infrastructure. This embraces findings from The Lawton Review in 2010, which called to make nature “bigger, better and joined up”.

“It’s envisaged that the work in the hotspots or investment areas will come forward naturally and there are many organisations already working in many of these areas,” Veronica notes. “It’s not the intention to swallow these initiatives up, but to work alongside and look at issues on a wider landscape scale.”

“We know that nature is without boundaries and there’s so much to be gained from working together.”

PANN’s network VERONICA CRADDOCK unites natural systems across 14 district and borough authorities. At a strategic level, it’s designed to provide evidence to support local decision making on a wide range of issues from health and wellbeing, climate change adaptation and mitigation, sustainable transport and access and recreation and nature networks.

Evidence from PANN could indeed give weight to local decision making and help develop local projects at a community scale, as well as larger scale projects.

Future “As we look forward to the next decade, there are big challenges ahead, particularly from the pressure of global climate change and threats to biodiversity,” Nick tells us. “Yet one of our

biggest strengths here at the South Downs National Park is the sheer passion people have for this varied and dynamic landscape.”

The overriding aim for South Downs in the coming years is to make a better home for both people and nature. And this isn’t just talk.

The detailed strategy is laid out clearly in the Partnership Management Plan.

Key highlights of this plan include the increase of nature-friendly farming, improving the quality and quantity of trees, creating more wildlife corridors, and encouraging more young people and under-represented groups to reap the benefits of National Parks.

For all within the horticulture industry, COVID-19 has given hope that by reconnecting with nature, people are seeing its benefits once again. SDNPA are running with this, developing health and well-being strategies, such as ‘green prescribing’, that use its beautiful and uplifting landscape as a mechanism for better physical and mental health.

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Butser Hill, Hampshire ©Daniel Greenwood Heathland at Stedham Common Seven Sisters ©Sam Moore Field cricket ©Bruce Middleton Water vole Small blue butterflies ©SDNPA Heathland sand lizard ©D Middleton Adonis Blue butterfly ©Neil Hulme Looking west from Devil’s Dyke ©SDNPA/A.Purkiss

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LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT’S JOURNAL BALSTON AGIUS

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I N S I D E I N S P I R E T H I S M O N T H PA G E 5 1 P O R T F O L I O 1 : L A N D S C A P E S 4 L I V I N G , PA G E 5 4 P O R T F O L I O 2 : H O R AT I O ’ S G A R D E N C H A R I T Y, PA G E 5 8 P O R T F O L I O 3 : L I M E B O K L A N D S C A P I N G , PA G E 6 2 L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C T ’ S J O U R N A L : B A L S T O N A G I U S , PA G E 6 6 A N J I C O N N E L L , PA G E 6 8 D E C K I N G : T O P P I C K S 2 0 2 0 , PA G E 7 1 3 0 U N D E R 3 0 W I N N E R S

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O N A N OT H E R

LEVEL S K Y FA L L

LANDSCAPES 4 LIVING T H I S A W A R D -W I N N I N G P R O P E R T Y N E E D E D A G A R D E N T O M AT C H , W H I L E M A K I N G A S TAT E M E N T O F I T S O W N

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t was crucial that this garden design reflected the strong architecture of the client’s newly built, award-winning property. The garden needed to suit an outdoor lifestyle, with the introduction of larger flexible entertaining areas, a covered outdoor kitchen area for year-round use, and the creation of smaller areas to break up the mass of the garden into usable spaces. The design needed to address the topography of the site, by creating useable level spaces and a journey through the garden that encouraged the occupant to get out and engage with it.

With the main living areas of the house on the upper story, the clients have a unique view of their garden, so it needed to work from all angles.

Design and build The property was designed to take advantage of the surrounding views. The three main views are from the kitchen to the left, the dining room to the right and the main living space in the centre – all of which are on the upper floor of the house – enabling the property to take full advantage of the stunning views out over Winchester and the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park.

To connect the house and garden together, three focal points were aligned with these key views. From the kitchen, a long vista to the bottom of the garden has been created. From the dining room, a shorter vista to a mid-point in the garden. And from the central windows and balcony, the clients look out to the new upper lawn and focal point of the whole garden – the feature wall.

PROJECT D E TA I L S Project value £100k Build time 4-5 months Size of project 800m2 Awards APL Awards 2019 Winner: Project Value £60k-£100k

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The feature wall was inspired by the fourth internal view created by the architects. The wall has a large window aligned with the upper central windows of the house which frames two feature trees, and when approached from behind, on the lower level, creates a framed view looking back up to the house. The style, colour, and finish of the wall matches a feature wall at the front of the property. The framing of the multi-stem trees echoes a small window on the front of the property where cedar strips cover part of the glass to create a privacy screen.

The upper section of the garden was to be an open environment with flexible entertaining space, while the lower portion a more private area with potential to be used in the evening where it benefits from the afternoon sun.

To further connect the house and garden, the existing terrace at the rear of the house has been extended to create several entertaining spaces. At its furthest point, a sunken seating area has been created with a fire pit at its centre, along with access to the upper lawn.

These new steps and fire-pit are aligned with the upper and lower terrace doors.

A limestone paving was chosen to help brighten up the area – the design of the house at this point was about emerging from the darkness. The existing flooring that flows out

from the house was kept to maintain the connection to the inside but, cut back to allow for the introduction of the lighter paving under the upper story, enhancing the contrast from dark to light.

Flanking the newly extended terrace on either side are steps which lead down into the garden. All steps and retaining walls throughout the garden use a matching black brick to the house, capped with the light limestone paving.

Either side of the fire pit on the main terrace, planting defines the edge of the terrace marking the change in level.

Soft landscaping The structural planting throughout the garden reinforces the strong style and theme, however, the main planting on the upper and lower sections of the garden has been treated slightly differently. The upper section is clean, simple and controlled. The lower section of the garden, which is a more intimate space in comparison, has an added layer under the formal structure with a more complex planting palette of plants drifting and flowing.

Hedges throughout the garden reinforce the clean lines with upright Taxus columns adding further structure and height, helping also to soften the dominance of the feature wall. Grass pathways have been created to connect all areas of the garden, helping to soften the hard landscaping elements of the design.

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AT THE APL AWARDS

ABOUT LANDSCAPES 4 LIVING

1 2 3 4

Entertaining area, built-in seats & fire pit Formal lawn, flanked by taxus hedges Feature wall framing the view to house Naturalistic planting, creating a looser wild feel to the bottom of garden 5 Sculpture – Regardt van der Meulen 6 Undercover terrace with outdoor kitchen

Landscapes 4 Living is passionate about and committed to the industry, with a vast combined experience of design and build, and project management. Mainly working in Hampshire, the company designs and builds projects of all sizes using high-end products and plants.

www.landscapes4living.co.uk

REFERENCES

OUTDOOR KITCHEN

FEATURE WALL

DURING WORKS

Planting at the front of the property has been designed to break up the hard landscaping. It reflects the intimate nature of the planting on the lower level at the rear, but the structural hedges reflect and mimic the feature wall by the front door, blending the hard and soft elements together within a common shape.

Challenges A building had to be created due to the lack of storage within the house and no garage. Due to the restricted budget, the storage building was going to be clearly visible from the house no matter where it was placed. To soften the blow of viewing it in such a clean, crisp scheme, a cedar clad, sedum roofed box was designed to mimic the house. By echoing the architecture, the shed becomes part of the fabric of the hard landscaping and not an afterthought.

Contractor Landscapes 4 Living www.landscapes4living.co.uk Landscape designer Stuart Charles Towner www.stuartcharlestowner.co.uk Hillier Landscaper Ltd www.hillier-landscapes.co.uk Structural engineers FCL www.fastcalcltd.co.uk Egyptian limestone London Stone www.londonstone.co.uk Render systems Wetherby www.wbs-ltd.co.uk Plants Hortus Loci www.hortusloci.co.uk Steel Pyramid Steel www.pyramidsteel.co.uk Lighting in-Lite www.in-lite.com 50mm bricks Morvan Hoskins

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HE ALING

H O RT I C U LT U R E H O R AT I O ’ S G A R D E N LO N D O N A N D S O U T H E AST H O R AT I O’ S G A R D E N C H A R I T Y H O R AT I O ’ S G A R D E N C H A R I T Y A I M S T O C R E AT E 1 1 N E W GARDENS FOR NHS SPINAL CENTRES AROUND THE UK. AT T H I S L O N D O N C E N T R E , I T S F I F T H G A R D E N , D E S I G N E D B Y T O M S T U A R T- S M I T H , C R E AT E S A N U R T U R I N G S PA C E F O R M E N TA L A N D P H Y S I C A L R E H A B I L I TAT I O N .

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1 2 3 4 5

Zinc clad retaining wall gives ample seating Patient viewing the garden for the first time Sedum ‘Jose Aubergine’ Patient using the garden Looking towards the garden room

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here are 50,000 people in the UK living with a spinal cord injury; each year approximately 2,500 people are newly injured. Horatio’s Garden vision is to build a garden in each of the 11 NHS spinal centres around the UK. 1,100 patients along with their family and friends currently have access to Horatio’s Garden in the UK, with five already built, and the sixth to be built in Cardiff in 2021.

Since 2012, the charity has been creating and nurturing beautiful gardens in NHS spinal injury centres. Each Horatio’s Garden is expertly designed, offering calm and comfort to people as they adjust to living with life-changing injuries.

London Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Centre at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital is the most recent garden to be built, completed in September this year. Currently, it has forty beds for adults, children and young people. Groundworks for its new garden began in January 2020 after a successful appeal raised over £1.2m to enable this specialist garden, dedicated to the needs of patients with spinal injuries, to go ahead.

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Design and build The garden was designed by Tom Stuart-Smith to carefully reflect the needs of patients and their families. The garden is on one level, with smooth paths throughout ensuring that it is easily accessible to patients in beds and wheelchairs.

Horatio’s Garden London and South East will be fully accessible to people in both beds and wheelchairs. The new project features a garden room and uniquely designed ‘garden pods’, ensuring that patients and their loved ones can spend precious time together beyond the hospital wards all year round.

The garden is a fully accessible, beautiful space offering patients the chance to spend time outside surrounded by natural elements. The designs were developed in close collaboration with the spinal unit team, as well as current and former patients.

Planting Throughout the garden the planting is designed to supply colour all year round, whilst wildlife has been encouraged with bird and butterfly boxes.

The garden is swimming with numerous flowers; trees such as the striking Betula utilis ‘Jacquemontii’ and Cornus kousa; and shrubs like

PROJECT D E TA I L S Project value £1.2m Build time 7 months Size of project 1,898m2

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Mahonia eurybracteata subsp. ganpinensis ‘Soft Caress’.

Grasses such as Hakonechloa macra and ferns like Polystichum braunii are planted alongside pops of delicate colour from Geranium ‘Sweet Heidy’, Omphalodes cappadocica ‘Cherry Ingram’, Thalictrum ‘Black Stockings’ and Omphalodes ‘Starry Eyes’.

The white colours of Azalea ‘Persil’, Azalea ‘Weston’s Innocence’, Selinum wallichianum and Galium odoratum can be found. Elsewhere, climbing plants like Pileostegia viburnoides and Schizophragma integrifolium grow.

Challenges Ambassador Anneka Rice visited the site in early March to carry out the official ‘groundbreaking’ ceremony, after which the country was thrown into lockdown. Naturally, the nine-month build schedule looked as though it may be in jeopardy. However, thanks to the dedication of the design and construction team, progress continued at an astonishing pace. The architect, Stephen Marshall, garden designer, Tom Stuart-Smith and main contractor, ARJ Construction, all pulled together to keep the build on track under the professional guidance of project managers, the Robert Lombardelli Partnership Ltd. Obstacles were overcome when building supplies ran low and spirits remained high throughout.

©Gary Britton/ARJ Construction

More than a garden Patient Ruth commented: “It is a really difficult thing to go through, a spinal cord injury, not just because of the physical side of things, the mental stuff is actually harder. Having a Horatio’s Garden here at Stanmore will make everything a little bit easier.”

The gardens’ very existence helps people throughout their time in hospital, but their role in supporting patients’ mental and physical rehabilitation goes far beyond that. As well as providing a space for physio and occupational

therapy, the charity runs various therapeutic workshops, including social and horticultural therapy sessions.

Together with a team of volunteers, the charity’s head gardeners organise a varied programme of regular creative groups and events, as well as caring for the gardens, and offer a warm welcome to all those visiting these unique places.

In Horatio’s Garden London and South East, head gardener Ashley Edwards will be responsible for all of this, something that the accomplished Kew graduate is very much looking forward to. Seeing patients and NHS staff exploring this long-awaited garden will be the start of a new chapter in the Horatio’s Garden story, which in the current climate feels more apposite than ever.

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A B O U T H O RAT I O’S GA R D E N

6 Tom Stuart-Smith 7 Woodland feel to the garden 8 Salvia nemorosa ‘Caradonna’ 9 Smooth pathways through the garden 10 Peaceful spot 11 NHS staff team taking a break by the water 12 Head gardener Ashley Edwards tending flower bed Photographs ©Lucy Shergold Photography Except photograph 10 ©Gary Britton/ARJ Construction

Horatio’s Garden is a national charity which improves the lives of everyone affected by spinal injury through creating and nurturing beautiful gardens in the heart of NHS spinal injury centres. It supports patients and their loved ones who are facing long stays in hospitals. Leading garden designers develop these stunning sanctuaries, creating an environment that becomes an integral part of people’s lives over many months and complements the clinical care from the spinal centres’ teams.

www.horatiosgarden.org.uk

REFERENCES Main contractors ARJ Construction www.arj.co.uk Design Tom Stuart-Smith www.tomstuartsmith.co.uk Landscape contractor and plant supply Crocus UK www.crocus.co.uk Architects for garden pods/garden room Steven Marshall Architects www.marshallarchitects.co.uk Irrigation Cameron Irrigation www.cameronirrigation.co.uk Water features Studio Ewing Ltd www.andrewewing.co.uk Resin paving Sureset UK www.sureset.co.uk Edging Kinley www.kinley.co.uk Everedge www.everedge.co.uk Benches Gaze Burvill www.gazeburvill.com Stone inscription Pippa Westoby www.pippawestoby.co.uk Parasols GoModern www.gomodern.co.uk

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he setting for the garden was a blank canvas on a new-build estate in Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire. The garden was already divided into two levels as the new development is built on a sloping terrain.

The rear garden can be accessed from two rooms, one on each side of the property via French doors, or via an access gate to the side. You enter the garden on the upper terrace. This area was defined by an existing structural retaining wall with a central staircase leading down to the larger lower terrace, and these were Limebok’s only restraints as moving them could have affected the warrantee on the property.

Client brief The brief from the client was to create a “cool, modern” garden with a strong emphasis on minimal maintenance. The finished garden had to satisfy the client’s appetite for outdoor entertaining and his passion for outdoor cooking, as well as be a place for his young family to spend time having fun together.

ALL-PURPOSE

AL FRESCO H E M E L H E M PST E A D MODERN GARDEN

LIMEBOK LANDSCAPING A CLIENT WITH A NEW BUILD IN HERTFORDSHIRE, A N D A LOV E O F O U T D O O R C O O K I N G , WA N T E D A MODERN GARDEN WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS

PROJECT D E TA I L S Project value £200k+ Build time 10 Months Size of project 180m2

Design and build The garden was built by Limebok Landscaping and designed by director Brett Penny. The spaces on the upper terrace to either side of the staircase were used to create a casual outdoor lounge location for the Big Green Egg. The team reduced the width of the central staircase to make room for a stainless steel slide, which was carefully integrated as a permanent feature in the garden adding a fun and exciting entrance to the lower terrace.

Glass balustrades create an uninterrupted view of the lower terrace, which was surrounded by 1 View of Caribbean Blinds canopy, outdoor kitchen and the bar ©Jahed Quddus/Caribbean Blinds 2 Seating area under canopy, waterfall and artificial green wall ©Jahed Quddus/Caribbean Blinds

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View from the upper terrace, looking down to the rest of the garden Spa-like green walling and the waterfall, right next to the bar Fully stocked bar ready for parties!

Slide or stairs? You choose!

Also great for the client’s children ©Jahed Quddus/Caribbean Blinds

a standard close board fence. This was structurally fine, but it did not fit with the contemporary look and feel of the new garden. A modern composite slatted screen was therefore used to create striking new boundaries on all sides. A sunken trampoline and play frame along with the slide make the garden an exciting place for children to spend their time.

The client has a passion for entertaining and outdoor cooking, so a BBQ area was constructed, complete with a competition grade smoker, pizza oven, charcoal BBQ, stainless steel storage cabinets, two fridges and a granite worktop. A bar area was built with beer on tap, a bar fridge, sink, heat lamps, LED lighting, and a television to catch all those great sporting moments.

A Caribbean Blinds’ garden pod creates a seating area linking the bar, outdoor kitchen and lawn areas. A stylish structure that enables the garden to not just be used in all weathers but to make the most of all weathers with integrated LED lighting, heat lamps, automated side screens and louvred roof slats. A water feature set into an artificial green wall creates a stunning focal point and brings a burst of colour into the space.

Material suggestions were made during the design phase of the project. Limebok presented material samples and spent time designing features into the plan and presented a 3D model of the garden to help the client visualise the finished result. The client sourced several items that he’d had on his wish list for the outdoor kitchen.

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REFERENCES Porcelain paving, DesignClad, Millboard decking London Stone www.londonstone.co.uk Stoneface cladding Marshalls www.marshalls.co.uk Artificial lawn George Davies Turf www.georgedaviesturf.co.uk Artificial green walling Green Envee www.greenenvee.co.uk Garden pod Caribbean Blinds www.cbsolarshading.co.uk Pots Limebok Landscaping www.limebok.co.uk

Challenges The main features of the garden are on the lower terrace, and the waste for the sink in the bar area had to be linked to the services on a higher level. So, Limebok installed a macerator and pump to get the waste to the services, which involved cutting a channel through the garage floor and installing heat coils around pipes to prevent them from freezing.

The team also had to consider the drainage for the sunken trampoline and ensure all the features in the garden complied with planning.

Initially, the customer didn’t want any planting at all as he was looking for a very low maintenance garden. Part of the challenge, therefore, was to soften the hard landscaping with some foliage that didn’t require too much work. Limebok Landscaping installed an artificial green wall around the water feature to give a spa-like feel to this area. After much arm twisting, the client further agreed to bamboos and agapanthus in pots – Limebok Landscaping even volunteered to go back and water them!

8 Top terrace offers a great view to the whole garden 9 The outdoor kitchen – a chef’s dream!

Outdoor cooking Fire Magic from Life Outdoors www.life-outdoors.co.uk Smoker Yoder www.yodersmokers.com BEFORE

Steel framework (for bar) The Steel Team www.thesteelteam.com Balustrade Balustrade Superstore www.balustradesuperstore.co.uk BEFORE

ABOUT LIMEBOK LANDSCAPING Established in 2008 by Brett and Sally Penny, Limebok Landscaping has grown to a three-team company offering luxury garden transformations. Well known in its local area for its contemporary designs, highly-skilled and friendly staff and exceptional attention to detail, it aims to always exceed its customers’ expectations with every outdoor space it builds.

www.limebok.co.uk

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Pizza oven Vitcas www.vitcas.com

Slatted screening Ecoscape www.ecoscapeuk.co.uk Worktops Globaltopz UK www.globaltopz.co.uk Plants Rochfords www.rochfords.net Bamboo Bamboo Giant www.bamboogiant.co.uk

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24/09/2020 21/10/2020 15:47 19:04

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LANDSCAPE A R C H I T EC T ’S JOURNAL BA L STO N AG I U S

WE FIND OUT ABOUT SOME OF BALSTON AGIUS’ STANDOUT PROJECTS, AS WELL AS SOME OF DIRECTOR’S MICHAEL BALSTON AND MARIE-LOUISE AGIUS PERSONAL PROJECTS

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eginning its life as Balston and Company, Balston Agius gained its new name when Michael Balston and Marie-Louise Agius recognised how compatible and complementary their skills were. Today, these skills are joined by more, making for a dynamic, energetic and professional practice.

But succeeding professionally isn’t the only priority at Balston Agius. In an often intense industry, it is important that the overall wellbeing of the workspace is good. An open fire is lit most days throughout the winter – often cooking baked potatoes – whilst walks through the surrounding fields are encouraged at lunchtime, and the office even has some fluffy residents with seven dogs and two horses on site, providing respite and amusement. Success doesn’t just revolve around people for Balston Agius, though.

GARDENS AND LANDSCAPES SHOULD ENCAPSULATE THE VERY ESSENCE OF SUSTAINABILITY Sustainability “Gardens and landscapes should encapsulate the very essence of sustainability,” explains Marie-Louise.

“Wherever possible, working with nature, rather than against it will deliver the best results.” For Balston Agius, this often means taking cue from the plants on the site already. This enables the team to correctly

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understand the environment in which they are working, and what will thrive.

At Maggie’s project, at St James’s Hospital in Leeds, a small area of grass saw a thriving Viburnum opulus at home in what were climatically challenging conditions. It was this that inspired the planting. “The British native woodland theme was an opportunity to re-establish a lost landscape, even at a miniature scale, with the enriching ecology of a woodland being a prime generator for the overall design,” explains Marie-Louise.

The British native woodland theme reestablished a lost landscape, with an enriching ecology, Balston Agius managed to create an oasis amongst a concrete desert. The site has become an important wildlife corridor, linking nearby habitats. But the British native woodland theme won’t just benefit wildlife. Visitors to the garden will be able to experience a dynamic and changing landscape – from bluebells to spring blossom – giving hope to users who find it helpful to set goals and milestones.

“There is an ease and naturalness to the site,” explains Marie-Louise. “There is a great symbiosis to the scheme and a feeling, from day one, as if it has been there for a long time; nestled into its space.”

Passion As the great-granddaughter of Lionel de Rothschild, Marie-Louise grew up with 200 acres of Exbury Gardens as a playground.

“Exbury is the horticultural lifeblood that runs through my veins and is simply the most extraordinary place of learning for me,” Marie-Louise tells us. “As soon as I started to

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WHEREVER POSSIBLE, WORKING WITH NATURE, RATHER THAN AGAINST IT WILL DELIVER THE BEST RESULTS train in landscape design, I realised the extraordinariness of what my great grandfather had achieved.”

Today, Marie-Louise is a director of Exbury Gardens. For its centenary year, she was able to leave her own mark. Completed in spring 2016, the garden didn’t open until 2019. This was in order to get several growing seasons under the garden’s belt before the big reveal.

The idea behind the garden was to follow on from the spring ‘high season’ for which Exbury Gardens is renowned and to create a garden that delivered all through the summer and into the autumn. As a charity, it is important to find ways to enhance the visitors’ experience.

The contemporary scheme certainly stands out from the rest of the gardens, with late flowering summer and autumn herbaceous planting set within a strong tree and shrub structure, and a family crest in the centre formed from black Caledonian slate inset into York stone.

For Michael, working on his own garden has also been the biggest lesson: “I have learnt more from working in my own garden than I ever did from my

long association with Kew or the RHS,” he explains. “It allowed me to learn through handling, planting, propagating and clearing plants, and making lots of mistakes. A sort of calm prevailed, even though it frothed at the edges, and when the interim trees got bigger, I learnt how to be ruthless with the axe.”

Never truly completed, Michael’s garden continually evolved over the 30 years he was there. It was important to try to integrate the house and garden through a variety of interrelated spaces, focusing on trees, grass, bulbs, and mixed areas. At the same time, it had to accommodate children, all sorts of sports and ultimately seasonal peace.

Being next to the office, this garden was a space that was enjoyed by many. Today, Maslens

1 Maslens Garden ©Balston Agius 2 Exbury Gardens ©Balston Agius 3 Maggies Centre, Leeds with Heatherwick Studio ©Hufton+Crow 4 Manor Farm House ©Balston Agius 5 Exbury Gardens ©Balston Agius

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is Michael’s personal domestic project. At 10% of the size, Michael is able to focus on an entirely new collection of plants. “I’m often grovelling around on the floor fighting Galium odoratum, Erigeron karvinskianus, Origanum vulgare, all seething along the cracks in the paving.” But there are triumphs in the form of Romneya x hybrida, the elegant Dahlia ‘Honka’, and Digitalis canariensis growing in a rusty old container.

THE GREATEST SCHEMES MARRY THE ARCHITECTURE AND THE LANDSCAPE TOGETHER FROM THE BEGINNING Collaboration Balston Agius firmly believes in collaboration at every stage of the project. This starts with listening, but not just to the client, to the landscape too. “We enjoy it when we have the opportunity to engage with the architects and other key consultants at an early stage in a project,” explains Michael. “The greatest schemes marry the architecture and the landscape together from the beginning.”

At The Grove Hotel in Chandler’s Cross, Balston Agius’ strong planning and architecture skills came into their own, as did its ability to collaborate. Working to a masterplan by Liz Lake Associates and a golf course plan by the American designer Kyle Phillips, Balston Agius was responsible for the formal gardens and second wave of tree planting on the golf course and park.

The plans for The Grove Hotel made the most of its historic bones, conserving existing trees and extending them around the site, while new groves of Cedars were supported by drifts of North American trees. A richly planted mixed

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border flanks the canal separating the golf course and hotel, with more intimate break out spaces created nearer the buildings.

The masterplan took advantage of extensive native trees, which were extended around the site. The new tree planting in the park concentrated on groves of cedars supported by drifts of mainly North American trees. The herb layer included varying treatments over grass with wildflower areas connecting to the trees.

While the golf course itself is relatively sterile, the park is wildlife rich.

Though the scheme was successful, the brief itself was incredibly complex, with Balston Agius needing to explore a wide range of options.

Solving planning requirements, movement patterns and historic building requirements – which weren’t always logical – and plant choices made the process highly intense.

“We were fortunate in having an inspirational client with a competent team making it all work,” explains Michael. “Perhaps more than anything else, this project showed me how much we rely on each other.”

6 Maslens, Penstemon with Knautia macedonica and Allium spaerocephalum ©Balston Agius 7 Manor Farmhouse, Patney. The Mount with cow parsley and naturalised Camassia leichtlinii ©Balston Agius 8 Maslens, Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’ in a mercifully slug-free year ©Balston Agius 9 Maslens, Rosa ‘Rambling Rector’ reaching over to Philadelphus ‘Starlite’ ©Balston Agius

C O N TA C T Balston Agius Ltd Long Barn, Manor Farm Lane, Patney, Devizes Wiltshire, SN10 3RB Tel 01380 848 181 Email info@balstonagius.co.uk

www.balstonagius.co.uk

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19/10/2020 18:46

Judged by Ann-Marie Powell Multi-award winning garden designer

www.ann-mariepowell.com

G-WALL COMPETITION WINNER! £1000 PRIZE DONATION TO PERENNIAL See full story on page 10

Runner-up - Rae Wilkinson

Winner - Katharine Goddard

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Runner-up - Christine Mulinder

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22/10/2020 12:36

©Dee Cunningham

©Dee Cunningham

©Martina Gemmola

GREEN WALL

©Jon Day Photography

INSPIRE

AND

LIVING WITH WITHIN NATURE W

©Heather Edwards

ANJI CONNELL EXPLORES THE OUTDOOR TRENDS FOR 2021, AND HOW THE RECENT LOCKDOWN MEASURES HAVE INFLUENCED THEM

HAUSER AND WIRTH GALLERY, SOMERSET

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e know gardens can positively impact physical and mental health, and this year has shown more than ever how important getting outdoors is. Our isolation has inspired in us a reconnection with nature. Gardening has blossomed – every pun intended – during the pandemic for those of us fortunate enough to have their own outdoor spaces during lockdown.

We have more time to appreciate them and the joy of gardening. For some, it’s the first time they’ve flexed their green fingers, and bits of green are sprouting up all over. Gardens will continue to play an important role in keeping society happy and healthy.

Perhaps today, the question should no longer be what is the next garden trend, but how we can best adapt our gardens to our new needs? Will we see the term ‘garden’ reshaped, with food gardens replacing classic ornamental and aesthetic gardens? Permaculture is the current buzzword, and lockdown measures could lead to a new golden age of gardening in our new post-pandemic era.

THE MODERN HOUSE

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21/10/2020 18:43

INSPIRE

are replicating the patterns of growth and harvest that occur naturally. Key design features include stacking, as in the forest, succession planting, and companion planting.

Opt for annual vegetables adding flowers and greens to create the best permaculture look.

LURIE GARDEN IN MILLENNIUM PARK, CHICAGO. DESIGNED BY GUSTAFSON GUTHRIE NICHOL LTD, PIET OUDOLF AND ROBERT ISRAEL

TRENDS FORECAST FOR 2021

Balcony gardening From potted plants to trailing tendrils, balconies can be a little bit of heaven.

Using moveable planters gives some flexibility to adapt the space for multiple uses and for plants that may need to move seasonally to follow the sun. Herbs add fragrance. Bees love oregano, lavender, and borage, plus they can be snipped to add flavour to cooking.

Wild gardens Encourage nature to run its course by taking a more naturalistic approach in creating the perfect ‘imperfect’ outdoor space with wild planting. It looks great, and it’s a haven for wildlife. Leaving a corner of the garden to go wild will provide shelter and homes for bugs, and the

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wildflowers will provide for the pollinators.

Opt for wildlife-friendly plants, with open flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects. Let native grasses, vines, and creepers ramble over fences and walls.

Inside outside The outside room is by no means a new trend, but it’s set to reverse – to bring the outside in – allowing a biodynamic seamless blending of the indoor with the outdoor, creating flow from one to the other, has never been so relevant.

This trend is one that will grow and grow.

Choose plants that work both indoors and out for continuity and to expand the space.

Raised beds Raised garden beds are great if you are short on space, adding another layer for planting. They also allow better soil control, boost drainage, and reduce soil compaction and add height; therefore, caring for your plants is much easier.

Permaculture gardens Permaculture gardening or “permanent agriculture” works with natural forces – wind, sun, and water – to provide food, shelter, and water.

It’s sustainable and holistic and allows us to live off the land.

A permaculture garden’s key features

©Rebecca Pow

Tiny gardens While many in the UK don’t have a private garden or outside area, for many that do, the space is small, which forces us to be creative – it’s all about making it look bigger and increasing its usability. To do this, we can use our vertical space, lay borders, create clear pathways leading to sitting nooks or artwork, creating zones as you would indoors. Making them as user-friendly and flexible as possible to meet the challenges of our changeable weather and our changing needs.

Grey gardens Grey gardens are set to be one of 2021’s biggest trends. This calming hue makes its way from our homes into the garden, and though it may sound drab, it achieves a perfect modern, minimal outdoor aesthetic if done correctly.

Bring grey into your garden in the tiling, paving, fence paint, gravel, and furniture.

Using purple and white adds a fresh pop of colour. White hydrangeas lend a crisp contrast.

©Tim Winter

©William Abranowicz

MM TROPICAL SUBURB TOWNHOUSE

BY MM++ ARCHITECTS, HO CHI MIN CITY, VIETNAM

White gardens Dazzling white flowers and bright white furniture have been growing in popularity.

A dark backdrop with varying foliage of differing shapes and sizes, using a repeating form, and filling the space with gorgeous white flowers makes for the perfect serene retreat.

Cottage gardens The classic cottage garden offers an escape from the city for all urbanites. Key design features are traditional materials and dense plantings with a mix of ornamental and edible plants. Classic roses, foxgloves, poppies, sweet peas, and delphiniums – utterly charming, and there’s no reason you can’t achieve this in a small space.

Vertical gardens Especially in the big cities, where there can be a lack of planting, vertical walls visually enhance, provide cleaner air, and bring some green back to our cities. Most spaces already have what you need – fencing, brick walls, railing, stairs, or a pergola all work to create a vertical oasis.

There’s no reason it can’t be edible too.

ABOUT ANJI CONNELL Internationally recognised interior architect and landscape designer, Anji Connell, is a detail-obsessed Inchbald graduate, and has been collaborating with artisans and craftsmen to create bespoke and unique interiors for a discerning clientele since 1986. Anji is a stylist, feature writer and lover of all things art and design.

www.anjiconnellinteriordesign.com

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21/10/2020 18:44

INSPIRE

TO P D EC K WO O D E N A N D C O M P O S I T E D E C K I N G S U P P L I E R S PICK THEIR TOP PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

BSW TIMBER

ALCHEMY

WHAT MAKES THIS THE TOP PRODUCT ?

ENHANCE ARBORDECK TREX WHAT MAKES THIS THE TOP PRODUCT ?

• A scalloped core makes them lighter and easier to handle than other Trex products • Made from up to 95% recycled materials • Shell technology for enhanced protection so it won’t rot, split, or fade

Launched in the UK in 2019, the Trex Enhance range has proved to be hugely popular globally – with Trex’s US-based factory producing around $800m of product, which is currently sold out in most parts of the world due to high demand. As a result, Trex has invested heavily in its manufacturing facility, which will increase production by a further $500m and see more Trex Enhance products on the market from 2021. The Trex Enhance range is divided into two branches – Enhance Naturals and Enhance Basics – both of which offer the aesthetics and ease of maintenance of composite decking with a lower price point than other Trex decking products, making them ideally suited to those who want Trex quality without the higher budget. www.arbordeck.co.uk

COMPOSITE DECK DUAL® PRIME HD WHAT MAKES THIS THE TOP PRODUCT ?

The USPs are what make the HD Deck Dual® a top product, and it is new for 2020 in a huge range of stockists. The • Reversible two-colour option HD Deck® range manufactured • 3D embossed boards for a natural finish

by Composite Prime is easy to • Capping to increase protection against damage install and made using recycled plastic and FSC® 100% certified oak wood flour. HD Deck Dual® has a reversible two-colour option on each board which saves space in storage, but also offers the opportunity to lay a deck with contrasting colours to create a bespoke finish.

The dual-sided board also makes it easy to refresh the deck by simply turning the boards over. The boards are 3D embossed with wood grain to ensure they look natural, and are capped to increase protection against fading, staining and other potentially damaging elements. The boards are low maintenance, slip resistant, durable, sustainable and barefoot safe. www.composite-prime.com

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Alchemy is the latest product • Stain resistant surface launch from BSW Timber, designed • UV stable so that everyone can have a deck • Enhanced wear protection they can rely on. It brings together 17 decades in the timber industry with high-quality, British manufacturing to create a range of dependable, cost-effective composite decking that is as head turning as it is hassle free.

It’s stain-resistant, fade-resistant and splinter-resistant. Made in Britain from a blend of sustainable wood flour and recycled materials, Alchemy is made for entertaining, not maintaining. Suitable for both residential and commercial use, Alchemy is available in three unique styles: Habitat hollow decking, Habitat+ capped hollow decking and Urban capped solid decking. The range of contemporary colour options means that personalisation is easy, enabling the creation of modern, luxurious outdoor spaces. www.alchemywpc.co.uk

JAMES LATHAM

HI-MACS® SOLID SURFACES

WHAT MAKES THIS THE TOP PRODUCT ?

Since introducing them to the landscaping community at last year’s FutureScape event, materials supplier James Latham has seen considerable growth of HI-MACS® Solid Surfaces in landscape designs. Originally a product used for bathroom and kitchen counter tops, this natural acrylic stone sheet has now moved outside into outdoor kitchens, swimming pools, planters and garden ornaments.

The seamless jointing technique has also been • Stain resistant used for endless runs of bench • Colour/UV stable • 15-year product warranty seating and copings, something unattainable with natural stone or marble. Made from a combination of natural minerals, pigments and acrylic binders, HI-MACS has excellent UV stability, is stain resistant and its thermoformable nature means it can be heated and formed into sinuous curves, shapes and designs. The sheets can even be bonded together or edge formed to simulate thick slabs of concrete, stone, marble and more, all whilst retaining that seductive curved form. www.lathamtimber.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

21/10/2020 22:21

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21/10/2020 20:44

THE CLASS OF 2020 30 Under 30 Cover.indd 67

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22/10/2020 10:08

30 UNDER 30

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irstly, a massive congratulations to all of this year’s winners. What a year to win; with all that the world has thrown at us, to see so many brilliant entries really reflects amazingly on this sector. During these extremely tough and unpredictable times the performance of this year’s winners should not go unnoticed. It’s really important that we continue to recognise, reward and promote the next generation as they will drive our sector forward. The judges commented that the understanding and engagement of the value green space has on our environment shone through in the entries.

Again, this year we have a fantastic mix from all sectors of landscape; people who have been through years of formal education; some who left school as soon as they could; some working for leading businesses and some who are already running their own successful companies; male and female, and the youngest being only 18 years old. These awards certainly highlight some excellent achievers, but we also had some really good entries from people who can count themselves very unfortunate not to make the final cut this year. It was very touching that one of our winners felt his biggest accomplishment to date was to have met his hero Mark Gregory!

More than one person commented that they're now trusted to ‘make a brew’ – something that made the judges chuckle!

Other entries were unique to this year – some said they had done some volunteering in the community in which they work during their time on furlough. Our youngest winner at only 18, Leon, an apprentice landscaper from Kirman Design, touched the judges with his enthusiasm at getting up early and working outside on even cold and wet days, and his mental strength and ambition to be the very best he can – he said he’s ‘over the moon’ at being part of our profession and we have to say we’re over the moon that he chose landscaping as his career.

There are many more outstanding achievements we could mention, it’s testament to the incredible sector we work in.

Thank you again to all who entered. A huge thanks to the judges and a special thank you goes to our partner Green-tech Ltd, which has sponsored the awards for the third year running and is a massive and constant support to the landscape industry.

Well done Class of 2020!

JIM & LISA WILKINSON

FROM THE SPONSOR ...

It’s a pleasure to be sponsoring Pro Landscaper’s 30 Under 30: The Next Generation for the third year and helping to celebrate the achievements and aspirations of young people in our sector. With a huge variety of winners, from those working for suppliers to landscaping companies to landscape architecture firms, the awards celebrate the diversity of the industry and the remarkable people who will be driving it forward in the future.”

RICHARD KAY CHAIRMAN, GREEN-TECH

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23/10/2020 10:37

Working together to create landscapes to be proud of We are more than a supplier.

Choose Green-tech and you get a trusted business partner.

• Over 25 years servicing the landscaping and forestry industries • Renowned for our professional advice and technical know-how • Vast warehousing and stock holding capabilities • All your landscaping materials available from one company and on one delivery • Next day delivery • Competitive pricing • Excellent customer care

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21/10/2020 23:05

Proud sponsors of

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21/10/2020 23:06

30 UNDER 30

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ABDULLA 25 ALBAROUDI S U STA I N A B I L I T Y A N D B I M T EC H N I C I A N , E T L A ST U D I O

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nhappy with the quality of spaces back in his home country of Syria, Abdulla was inspired to study architectural engineering. During his postgrad degree in sustainability, Abdulla started his career in landscape architecture. It’s his goal to close the gap between architecture and landscape, taking a step forward when working on the Inclusive Cities Initiative by the UN Habitat in Lebanon. He is currently working on adapting an international landscape sustainability standard issued by USGBC called SITES. This standard is first of its kind in giving sustainable solutions for designing better landscapes.

EMILIE BAUSAGER GARDEN DESIGNER, E M I L I E BAU S AG E R L A N D S C A P E S

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milie started her own garden design practice last year after gaining a diploma from The English Gardening School the previous year. She works in both the UK and Denmark, adjusting her designs to the different stylistic tastes and climates of each country. Emilie also holds a BA and MA in fine arts from The Royal Danish Academy of Arts, which have influenced how she’d like her business to progress.

Emilie says she would like “to build a known design studio that commissions artists to incorporate their work and technique into my garden designs so each space is truly unique”.

OLIVIA BENGER C O M M E R C I A L C O N T R AC TS M A N AG E R , TO N Y B E N G E R L A N D S C A P I N G

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or Olivia Benger, a passion for landscaping runs in the family. Her father runs a successful company within the sector, and she’s been learning Latin plant names since she was nine years old. Olivia started out on the nursery and now works as a commercial contracts manager whilst studying for a Level 3 Institute of Leader & Management Award. She manages a wide range of clients, from multiple house developers to commercial construction companies, with one of her highlights being managing the construction of 12 acres of public open space on an Exeter housing development. Olivia is aiming to manage a department of 25 commercial team leaders, each with a team of their own.

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LEON CHAPPELL

APPRENTICE LANDSCAPER, KIRMAN DESIGN

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hile his friends were still in bed or watching TV, Leon was up early mowing lawns, building brick BBQ’s, and planting borders.

Kirman Design was his first official step into landscaping and since starting as a labourer 14 months ago, he has worked his way up to apprentice landscaper. Leon has picked up many skills over a brief period of time and now, when the site foreman must leave the site, Leon is asked to deputise. Leon strives to be the best landscaper he can be and hopes to one day open his own landscaping business to which young people look up to and aspire to be a part of.

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DAN COCKRAM C O M M E R C I A L E ST I M ATO R , TO N Y B E N G E R L A N D S C A P I N G

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oining Tony Benger Landscaping straight out of university with very little landscaping knowledge, Dan knew he had a lot to learn quickly – which he did. Dan studied in his spare time and volunteered to go on site to learn first-hand. In just two years, he has gone on to win 27 tenders, 14 of which are new customers. Dan also helped the company expand into commercial fencing as well as trialing new scaling software which increased productivity. He hopes to expand his knowledge so he can share this with other industries and ensure corners are not being cut to achieve rich and biodiverse spaces.

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ALICE ELEK

OWNER, ALICE CRESPI GARDENS

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lice left an office job in 2017 to set up her own gardening company and has since maintained, designed and created more than 70 gardens across London and the south. She gained an RHS Level 2 certificate in the Principles of Horticulture, which she says gave her the confidence to “make the career change” and has developed her skills on SketchUp and LayOut in order to work on “more creative garden projects”. Last year, Alice was awarded a Silver Merit for her border at BBC Gardeners’ World and is hoping to showcase more of her designs and planting next year.

MARK GADSDEN

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LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND B U I L D, G A D S D E N G A R D E N S

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ith no industry qualifications, Mark has learned on the job since starting out as a labourer when he was 17. Whilst working as foreman for a landscaping company last year, Mark decided to take the plunge and set up his own business. In just over a year, Gadsden Gardens has grown to be a six-strong team with bookings through to April 2021.

He has bold ambitions to “become a household name in designing and delivering modern, minimalist and contemporary outdoor space”. Mark also hopes to one day set up a landscaping academy for people of all ages who lack the finance to attend college or university.

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JOSH FORSTER DEPUTY TEAM LEADER, GREEN-TECH

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oining Green-tech straight out of school at the age of 18, Josh says he felt immediately at home at Green-tech. At the start of this year, having been with the company for nearly four years, he was promoted to deputy team leader, becoming the youngest to reach this position. Josh hopes to become a sales manager at Green-tech, to be responsible for a full team of technical sales advisors whilst looking after his own database. One of Josh’s proudest achievements to date is securing the order and delivering to the largest motorway scheme in the country; Green-tech has supplied more than 800,000 tree tubes to the project, which is still ongoing.

NISHA GANDHI L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T EC T, WS P

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isha prides herself on having a keen eye for detail and storytelling, both of which are skills she applies to all of her design projects and challenges. She has a special interest in the application of technology to find new methods of problem solving or communicating innovative ideas.

Nisha has a strong passion for helping others and believes landscape architects have a range of influence and impact on green infrastructure, regeneration, environmental mitigation, climate change and resilience, mental health, wellbeing and so much more. Currently, she mentors junior staff members, is a representative for university engagement, and is an active member of the young professionals’ network, hoping to continue to inspire future generations.

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SID HILL

FO U N D E R , S I D H I L L EC O LO G I C A L G A R D E N S

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eceiving his very own vegetable path at 10 years old, Sid grew up learning how to manage our landscape sustainably.

This inspired him to use his experience and knowledge to have a positive impact on wildlife, the environment, and people through his own business. Sid’s main passion is designed plant communities, and over the last five years he has been developing unique research into edible meadows with his work even featured on BBC Gardeners' World. One of his career goals is to set up a centre for sustainable horticulture that trains and inspires a new generation.

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HARRY HOLDING D I R EC TO R A N D P R I N C I PA L D E S I G N E R , H A R RY H O L D I N G G A R D E N D E S I G N LT D

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arry’s horticultural career began with pulling weeds with his grandmother.

Today, he has two successful businesses in garden design and in maintenance and this year his work will feature on Channel 4’s Grand Designs. Harry has always had a burning desire to make a change, helping the natural world, and is continually surprised by how much of an impact we can have in the landscaping industry. Feeling strongly that sustainable design doesn’t have to sacrifice quality or style, Harry wants to have a thriving design and aftercare company known for: “delivering sustainable designs which are contemporary, magical and inspiring spaces to be in bringing nature back into people’s lives in innovative and bold ways.”

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T YLER JACKSON

D I R EC TO R , G F X G R O U N D E F F EC TS L A N D S C A P I N G L I M I T E D

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hen Tyler finished school at 16, he undertook a landscaping apprenticeship with Myerscough College, where he says he discovered a passion for construction. He set up his own business in 2015, which became limited three years ago, and now has two full-time employees, as well as working with a number of subcontractors.

Tyler says he is looking to take on the company’s second apprentice this year following the success of the first, to give “opportunities back to young people who can follow the same path I have taken”. Amongst many accomplishments, GFX was selected to design and create a show garden for its main supplier Bannister Hall, which has recently featured on the front cover of its brochure.

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CHRIS HULL

OW N E R A N D L A N D S C A P E D E S I G N E R , GREENBOOK LANDSCAPE DESIGN

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t an early age, Chris got his hands dirty working with his stepfather in forestry and countryside management. At just 15 he had his first gardening job for a country house hotel, and he hasn’t stopped since. A career highlight was the delivery of a memorial garden for Hampshire Constabulary to honour those who lost their lives during service. For Chris, landscape design boils down to three things: plants, place, people: “Whatever the scenario, if you get these three things right, good things will follow.”

Going forward, he wants to continue to grow his business, delivering high quality schemes that address social and environmental problems.

JEROME KENWAY HEAD OF EXTERIOR, INDOOR GARDEN DESIGN

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ver the last six years, Jerome has worked his way up through Indoor Garden Design. All of his horticultural knowledge has been gained whilst at the company, and he now heads up the exterior team. Last year, Jerome gained a first-class degree in BSc International Development and Globalisation through evening study, which included modules on environmental issues and modern urban planning to stem the tide of climate change. He met with urban architecture students in Delhi to learn how they are designing diverse spaces in the city.

Ultimately, Jerome plans to run his own landscape design company in London – and hopefully further afield too – focusing on improving biodiversity and the surrounding environment.

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DAWID KOSCIANSKI

S E N I O R C O N T R AC T M A N AG E R , N U RT U R E L A N D S C A P E S

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tarting out on the tools in 2012, Dawid is now a senior contracts manager at Nurture Landscapes, building a wealth of experience of working on a variety of contracts such as office parks, industrial estates and retail parks. His passion for landscaping developed whilst helping his dad after school with property and garden maintenance around their local town in Poland. Since May 2018, Dawid has won 50 new contracts for regular grounds maintenance. He has forged strong relationships with colleagues and clients, and has mentored people into various positions within Nurture.

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30 UNDER 30

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ELLEN KRIER

L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T EC T, P EG A S U S G R O U P

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llen became a landscape architect with the desire to help people, through her joy and passion for art. She strives to bring soft planting to the forefront, be it through precision farming, edible landscapes, or ways to clean up the environment.

At Pegasus, Ellen is able to work in both landscape design and the planning process and her experience is grown at home too, on the 100-acre family farm. Singlehandedly designing and building an RHS Tatton Show Garden, Ellen was reminded of why she chose this career: “A mother walked past with her autistic child who was having a stressful tantrum. As soon as her entered the garden he was silent, and the mother looked at me with a sigh of relief.”

MATT LINDSAY P R O D U C T A N D R E TA I L S A L E S M A N AG E R , B I OT EC T U R E L I M I T E D

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hough Matt had no previous experience when he entered the industry, he quickly learned the vital importance that vertical greening has on our land and cityscapes. Today, he works in dual roles at Biotecture Products Limited and for a new nature-focused company called Growing Revolution. In January 2020, Matt was accepted onto the UK Green Building Council’s Future Leader programme which he hopes will help him further influence and educate the wider-landscape industry. One of his biggest accomplishments was successfully delivering Biotecture’s Active Air project, as it means they can now demonstrate how to create ‘clean air zones’ through plants.

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ROSIE MAYER

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SENIOR DESIGNER AND BESPOKE D E S I G N S P EC I A L I ST, J U P I T E R P L AY & L E I S U R E

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esigning play spaces is Rosie’s “dream job”, combining her degree in product design from Nottingham Trent University, her interest in landscape architecture, her creative flair and her “inner child”. She applied for a designer role at Jupiter Play & Leisure whilst writing her dissertation and has been with the company since she left university, recently being promoted to senior designer. One of Rosie’s proudest achievements is her involvement in the design of bespoke play equipment at the Holland Park Adventure Playground, which has secured two BALI National Landscaper Awards. Rosie is now working towards establishing a reputation within the industry, to be recognised for her “unique, striking concepts and design-led approach”.

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ROBERT LOWE L ANDSCAPER, LOWE’S L ANDSCAPES

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obert’s father has been a gardener for the past 25 years.

Being involved with gardens himself since he was 12, it’s no surprise that Robert followed in his father’s footsteps.

He started his own business seven years ago, offering basic designs, maintenance, and hard landscaping services.

It’s Robert’s ambition to grow this into a high-end landscaping company that specialises in contemporary garden builds and competes in all major garden shows – having missed out on doing Harrogate Spring Flower Show this year due to COVID-19. Robert sees landscaping as more than a 9-to-5 job and hopes to prove to others what a therapeutic and enjoyable career path it can be.

JACK MCKENNA L A N D S C A P E C O N T R AC TS M A N AG E R , NICHOLSONS NURSERIES

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t just 12 years’ old, Jack started a weekend job helping an elderly neighbour look after her garden. He then maintained several small gardens as a teenager, helping out with small construction projects, and on the weekends would work on construction sites where his father was a project manager.

Now, as landscape contracts manager for Nicholsons Nurseries, Jack is involved in the overall management of landscape projects from £20k to £1m, responsible for the day-to-day running of these projects. He boasts a BSc (Hons) in Landscape Architecture from Writtle College, having gained a Level 3 Extended National Diploma in Horticulture from Easton Agricultural College. Jack now plans to gain chartership within the next couple of years.

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A R B O R I C U LT U R A L C O N S U LTA N T, T M A E N V I R O N M E N TA L C O N S U LTA N TS

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eginning his career in this industry in horticulture, Dean has gone on to become an arboricultural consultant. He is a published author, with the internationally recognised ISA journal, Arboriculture and Urban Forestry and is currently on the Arboricultural Association's East Anglia Committee.

Dean’s specific interests are within tree risk management, biomechanics, and urban forestry and this is where he plans to focus his expertise. His ultimate career goal is to hold the position of director/principal arboricultural consultant as well as continuing his involvement with industry organisations, committees and working groups.

BRIAN MILL ARD O P E R AT I O N S M A N AG E R , T H E C G M G R O U P

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fter running his own maintenance business for six years, Brian decided he needed to expand his knowledge within the sector and take a new career path to progress. He joined Center Parcs as a park ranger before joining CGM just over three years later as assistant operations manager (east). Brian has since developed skills in budgeting, organisation and problem solving. He has also gained sports turf qualifications and ROLO achievements. His goal now is to become the right-hand support for CGM’s operations director and to eventually succeed to this role.

ELIZA NICHOLAS

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orking a corporate job in central London, Eliza found herself craving plants and green space.

Often offering advice to friends and colleagues about how to transform their urban spaces, Eliza decided to change careers gaining a qualification in Garden Design. Today, it is her companies aim to make garden design accessible, fun, and understandable for all ages and budgets. During the recent COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, Eliza offered DIY garden ideas for those stuck at home, donating 10% of profits to charity. In the future, Eliza would like to work with central London organisations to communicate the benefits of plants and gardening for those in high pressure roles and city environments.

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BEN MYERS OW N E R , A DA M & E V E LANDSCAPES

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en had a passion for the industry from an early age.

Though the printing of 2,000 leaflets on the school printers led to a two-week exclusion, some recipients of the leaflets are still clients today. Ben has gone on to work on several Chelsea gardens and one day hopes to win a Gold Medal. Other career goals involve helping vulnerable people back into the workplace and giving them new skills.

He is currently working on the landscaping of a project which hopes to turn an unused village hall into accommodation for the homeless.

Overall, Ben aims for his company to be: “well-known, well-respected, inspirational and successful, whilst working ethically and fairly.”

THOMAS O’BRIEN O P E R AT I O N S M A N A G E R , P U D S E Y L A N D S C A P E S

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ith his dad running commercial landscaping company Pudsey Landscapes and his uncle a company focusing on private domestics projects, it’s hardly surprising Thomas has followed in their footsteps and entered into the landscaping industry. He gained a Level 3 diploma in horticulture from Askham Bryan College before joining Pudsey Landscapes and is now studying for a garden design diploma from the KLS School of Design. Over the last year, he has worked with external companies to produce a new logo and website for Pudsey. Thomas hopes to one day lead the company to become a national brand known for quality and to design and build a Chelsea garden.

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FREDDIE STRICKLAND JOHN TALLIS GARDEN AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN, FREDDIE ST R I C K L A N D L A N D S C A P E A N D G A R D E N D E S I G N

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ight years ago, Freddie swapped the city life in London for the Cornish coast and he hasn’t looked back. He gained a foundation diploma in Art and Design from Falmouth University before going onto to study a BA (Hons) in Fine Art. Most recently, Freddie graduated from the Eden Project last year with an HND in Garden and Landscape Design, following which he set up his own practice. Alongside this, he regularly works as a studio assistant for Trees Associates. This year, he became a finalist in the RHS Young Designer of the Year competition, and will hopefully get to create his garden at Tatton Park in 2021 following the show’s postponement.

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GENERAL MANAGER, DAVID MASSEY GARDEN CONSTRUCTION

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t was John’s great uncle, Dr Brent Elliott RHS historian, who sparked his excitement and inspired him to one day carve his own mark into the industry. Whilst travelling in Australia, John was able to work on some of Sydney’s most prestigious gardens, opening his eyes to the standard and level of professionalism the work held. Bringing this back to the UK, John started a new design division withing David Massey Garden Construction, landing over 700,000 worth of design sales within a six-month period. As well as winning a Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal, his ultimate career goal is to be part of shows such as Gardeners World, to help show communities how great our industry is.

RYAN THOMAS

LE AD L AN DSCAP E D ES IGNE R, U RBAN M E AD OWS

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raduating from Nottingham Trent University with a degree in Graphic Design, Ryan turned his newly gained skills to landscape design. Growing up, he’d spent a lot of time in his father’s allotment in Wales, so has always felt drawn to nature and plants. He now works as lead landscape designer for Urban Meadows, where he worked as a horticulturist and foreman until December 2016 before returning to the company last March. Ryan would like to eventually run his own practice, with a focus on sustainability, which he tries to include as much as possible in all of his current projects.

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GEORGE TROTT

ARBORICULTURIST/SENIOR SITE SUPERVISOR, TONY BENGER L ANDSCAPING

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aving spent years staring at trees in wonder, a career working with them was inevitable for George. Today, he has a diverse role which includes mentoring colleagues and engaging with clients and residents. George would like to improve the public’s view on open space management through openness and learning, while raising the grounds maintenance bar and promoting good tree selection as key to a sustainable planting project. Having become the regional commercial maintenance company of choice, George hopes they can do the same with the landscaping department. He is currently working towards a Level 3 award in leadership and management.

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JACK WANNELL

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A R B O R I C U LT U R A L C O N S U LTA N T, ESSEX COUNTY COUNCIL

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aving spent five years in tree surgery for an Arboricultural Association approved company, Jack decided to take the plunge and go into consultancy work for local authorities. He started working with Kent County Council before recently joining Essex County Council in March. Jack is responsible for three districts, with tasks ranging from arboricultural surveys for local schools to assisting highway structures where trees are in close proximity to general enquiries from the members of the public concerned about trees in their area.

Jack says the arboriculture as a whole is underappreciated, so he would like to help promote it through the industry and to encourage more people to enter it.

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NURTURE

F E AT U R E GARDEN

PETERSFIELD PHYSIC GARDEN WE E XPLORE THE HISTORIC PETERSFIELD PHYSIC GARDEN, AS GARDEN MANAGER JENNY HILL TAKES US ON A TOUR OF ITS HERB COLLECTION AND THE STORIES BEHIND THEM, INCLUDING ONE HERB IN PARTICUL AR WHICH HAS HIT THE HE ADLINES IN RECENT MONTHS

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ne of the first formal physic gardens to be seen in Great Britain was in Oxford. Full of plants grown for medicinal purposes, these types of gardens soon popped up around the country. Petersfield Physic Garden’s history stretches back further, though, to the 12th century.

Then, the site was a burgage plot – characteristically long and narrow plots owned by a king or lord and rented out to tenants.

For many years, this plot of land remained unchanged, until 30 years ago, when frustration led John Bowen to make some changes. On a site where planning permission had been refused to protect rare orchids growing naturally, weed killer was supposedly accidentally sprayed, destroying the plants, and granting the planning permission. John was incensed at this destruction and decided his garden should be left to the people of Petersfield, for their education and enjoyment and to help conserve plant species.

A 17th century Physic Garden was chosen for many reasons.

John Bowen was at the time friends with the curator of the Chelsea Physic Garden, and was no doubt impressed and inspired.

The Hampshire Gardens Trust, during the same period, had been involved in the creation of the 13th century Queen Eleanor's garden and a 15th century Tudor Garden, so the suggestion of a 17th century garden was put forward for its next project. This tied in with Petersfield’s history well, with two prestigious figures residing in the town during this century. John Goodyer, one of the most eminent botanists of the period – inspiring the garden’s emblem of

CROCUS

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a flower bearing his name – and John Worlidge, a great agricultural writer and one of the first British agriculturalists to discuss the importance of farming as an industry.

“It was almost fortuitous that they chose the 17th century,” garden manager Jenny Hill tells us.

“So much happened in the 17th century; there were civil wars and plagues – you name it. But it was also a turning point in terms of healthcare.

At the beginning of the century, you treated illness with herbal medicines and prayer.

By the end, you used herbs and science.”

It was Sylvia Landsborough who designed the garden enjoyed today, with expertly sculpted topiary hedges, lovingly crafted knot garden, a fruitful orchard and its crowning jewel, the herb garden. And enjoyed it is. The garden is free to enter, with the team encouraging visitors to stop and relax on its benches and under its trees.

As would be expected of a 17th century garden, nothing can be planted within it its walls which came in after the 1700s. Though this can at times be challenging, the garden is no less because of it. Crab apple trees – the oldest cultivated trees in Europe – medlar trees, quince trees and fig trees thrive in the orchard.

The apricots climbing up the orchard wall struggle, as the garden cannot use the modern apricot plant, specifically bred to withstand our cooler temperatures.

IN THE 17TH CENTURY, ONE HERB COULD TREAT UP TO 14 DIFFERENT AILMENTS, FROM SORES TO HEADACHES The herbs have no such issues, with the garden boasting 71 different species. “Chelsea Physic Garden separates plants by which disease they cure,” explains Jenny. “But in the 17th century, one herb could treat up to 14 different ailments, from sores to headaches. So, we can’t categorise our plants in the same way.”

Indeed, laurel alone was said to cure bites and stings from venomous creatures, shortness of breath, coughs and consumption, cramps and convulsions, itches and bruises, palsy, dropsy, jaundice, rheumatic diseases and wind.

So, instead, the garden is a stroll through history and myth.

Achillea was used for stopping the flow of blood. It is said, the herb gained its name from Achilles who always carried it with him when at war. Similarly, Rosemary is said to be named after Mary, as she fled Egypt and flung her blue cloak over a white flowered bush and turned the flowers blue, giving it the name the Rose of Mary.

Pulmonaria officinalis usage hails back to an early treatment of medicine called the doctrine of signatures, which states that herbs resembling various parts of the body can be used by herbalists to treat ailments of those body parts – a practice which was fading out in the 17th century for obvious reasons. But previously, Pulmonaria officinalis had been used to treat diseased lung due to its resemblance. Even today, it is still commonly called lungwort.

Within the garden, visitors can even find the opium poppy. Though legal to grow in England, it is, for obvious reasons, not legal to harvest it.

Samuel Pepys, administrator of the navy of England and member of parliament, is famous for the diary he kept for a decade. Within this, he wrote: “Between Gosport and Southampton, we

APPLE BLOSSOM

OPIUM POPPY (PAPAVER SOMNIFERUM)

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Photographs ©Brian Robinson

MEDLAR

ISATIS TINCTORIA (WOAD)

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THE PHYSIC GARDEN IN SUMMER

observed a little churchyard where it was customary to sow all the graves with sage.”

This was due to the belief that sage eased grief, though it was also used to treat consumption, falling sickness (epilepsy), headaches, liver diseases, wounds, palsy (paralysis), ulcers, sores, cankers and plague.

Though many of these herbal treatments weren’t hugely successful in curing the illnesses that plagued the country, they sometimes stumbled upon a treatment – though they perhaps didn’t know why. In the 17th century, it was a common belief that disease was spread through miasma, or through breathing in an unhealthy smell or odour. For the treatment of scurvy, rosehip was administered which, containing sources of vitamin C, worked.

Gloves coated in lavender oil were sold during the Great Plague which helped due to the plant’s natural antiseptic. And, in some cases, common hop did cure venereal diseases because of its natural antibiotic properties.

With such a rich history, Jenny is often invited to give talks about these herbs and tours around the garden. But it is important that she stresses that it is history. “We make a point to not tell visitors a herb’s modern use because it’s much too dangerous,” explains Jenny.

“Take foxglove for example. Many may recognise Digitalis as a form of treatment for heart conditions. When formulated into a medication with a controlled dosage it’s very

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effective. But the plant itself is poisonous.”

Not wanting to encourage visitors to attempt to cure their own ailments with the garden’s herbs, Jenny and her team stick to educating about 17th century uses. Indeed, it wasn’t until later that a doctor discovered foxglove could treat heart conditions – during the 17th century it was used for healing wounds.

I AM SURE THAT THERE IS A LOT TO BE LEARNT FROM HERBS AND THERE’S A LOT LEFT TO BE DISCOVERED There is one exception to this rule, though, and it’s been hitting headlines for all the right reasons. In April, Madagascar announced it had been using a local plant to combat COVID-19 – Artemisia. For years, an ingredient in the plant’s dried leaves called artemisinin has been used to treat malaria. Artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) are recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

As of yet, there is no solid evidence to suggest the plant can treat COVID-19. But that hasn’t stopped President Rajoelina of Madagascar claiming trials of the COVIDOrganics drink which uses Artemisia have

GLOBE ARTICHOKE

showed effectiveness. Nor has it stopped scientists from around the world conducting tests, with German and Danish scientists stating it has genuinely shown effectiveness in a laboratory setting.

Though it stands by its statement that at present, there is no evidence to suggest that Artemisia-derived products work against COVID-19, WHO states it may get involved later on in trials depending on the information that comes from these early trials. So, the jury’s out, but it’s one to watch.

Modern herbal medicine certainly divides opinions. Though Jenny believes there is a lot of good to be found in herbs, even she is in two minds. “In many ways, we’re in the same situation as the 17th century,” explains Jenny.

“How do you determine the strength?

Quantities? Purities? 500 years later and you still can’t always be sure what’s in them. But I am sure that there is a lot to be learnt from herbs and there’s a lot left to be discovered.”

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NURTURE PLANTING AT THE BARBICAN, CENTRAL LONDON BY NIGEL DUNNETT

CO N S I D E R C OASTA L P L A N TS I

t has always puzzled me that so few British gardens really embrace the coast, although the landscape profession has often been better at making appropriate selections for windswept maritime locations.

Private gardeners have tended to shelter behind high hedges and carry on behind them as if they were safely inland.

There are good reasons for paying more attention to coastal planting, and not just because of planting by the seaside. The conditions at the coast, primarily exposure to wind, physical battering and desiccation can be found in plenty of inland locations too, such conditions being created by the design of buildings or the poor quality of soils in some urban areas. High density living is also very often creating conditions which expose plants to very similar conditions to coastal living, such as green roofs, balconies and podium planting.

Even the exposure to salt from road gritting mimics the coast in many locations. So, there are good reasons for paying more attention to what grows well down by the seaside.

Looking at what we traditionally plant in maritime locations, there are a number of different sources of the plants we use.

Particularly on western coasts, New Zealand

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plants thrive; hebes, phormiums, griselinias are common, and I suspect we will see many more species from this very distinctive flora being introduced for coastal planting. However, they are not noted either for their hardiness or (for the most part) their drought tolerance.

The adaptations that many plants of the Mediterranean region have for reducing drought stress make them good coastal plants, too.

However, many of the traditional range are so shortlived that their usefulness must be

THERE ARE GOOD REASONS FOR PAYING MORE ATTENTION TO WHAT GROWS WELL DOWN

BY THE SEASIDE seriously questioned. An increase in the range of species available will happen – growers and landscape professionals in the region are now beginning to engage far more with minimal irrigation and the very wide range of the region’s native species. However, again, I suspect lack of hardiness may be a limiting factor for many in British conditions.

The other area where many good coastal plants could come from is a very paradoxical one – central Asia. I remember many years ago being in northern Pakistan (very cold winters, very dry summers) and meeting some very familiar plants from British coasts, such as sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides) and burnet rose (Rosa pimpinellifolia). The semi-

desert environments of much of this vast region are home to many plants which are ideal for coastal situations and demanding urban ones too. And, given the prevalence of salt deserts in the region – another box ticked! Perovskia species we all know and love for their August flowering, whilst it may surprise many that the vigorous and familiar Clematis orientalis in its many different forms is from this region too, and so likely to be a lot tougher than we think.

This summer, I have been trialling some Achillea species in my Portuguese low-irrigation garden. Wow! Their ability to cover ground with a low dense carpet of attractive grey foliage without a drop of additional water is just amazing – definitely something to use as a lawn substitute.

I suspect a lot of Artemisia species will do likewise but with a bit more height and bulk.

We have, in Nigel Dunnett’s planting at the Barbican in central London, an excellent example of so-called steppe planting. Relatively low, not producing much untidy biomass, very largely self-replicating the grasses, perennials and the occasional low shrub offers a good model for the ‘naturalistic’ use of this type of vegetation. I would only like to flag up that more ‘conventional’ styles of planting should be experimenting with these plants as well.

ABOUT NOEL KINGSBURY Noel Kingsbury is a freelance designer, writer and researcher who has long promoted naturalistic planting design. He also teaches at Boston Architectural College.

www.noelkingsbury.com

Image ©Nigel Dunnett

NOEL KINGSBURY QUESTIONS WHY COASTAL PLANTING RARELY VENTURES FURTHER INLAND, PROVIDING SOME LESSER KNOWN SOURCES FOR USEFUL SPECIES

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OPTIMISM IS GOOD MEDICINE

COVID-19 MIGHT HAVE BROUGHT FRESH CHALLENGES TO THE SECTOR, BUT LEWIS NORMAND IS LOOKING ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

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n reflection, 2020 could be the worst year of many of our lives. Huge challenges to how we live, to who we can see and interact with and to our businesses, and pretty much everything that we know having changed.

It may be a blip, and 2021 will hopefully be something completely different. COVID-19 brings further costly lockdowns and anxieties over Brexit and our ability to trade functionally and cost effectively under new trading terms have added more grey hairs to many of the population, myself included.

So, with this in mind, I am consciously choosing positivity to maintain my hair as more ‘pepper’ and less ‘salt’ in colour – that, and it is my preferred approach to life. I’m engaging more with things that interest me and looking to apply them to professional life and predict a changing horticultural landscape.

Like so many Britons during lockdown, I re-found gardening and horticultural loves that were perhaps lost to the rigors of work and what was ‘normal’ life. The ‘new normal’ may hold a great many unknowns for us currently, but many of these could be positive. How we value what is important to us and assigning less emphasis to the things we wrongly thought we needed

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pre-COVID, can only be a good thing. Like most of us, I have grown plenty of food crops this year and experimented with new plants both to eat and look at; some with resounding success, others that I wouldn’t try again, but all good learning.

I think many of these lessons will benefit my professional life, too. New plants that I have grown for myself could soon become part of our offering at the nursery for show gardens and general supply. What an opportunity it is for nurseries to trial plants, by first giving samples to their staff to grow. I’m sure this is something we need to consider more. The same goes for companies selling materials or finished products. After all, while I’m sure that not everyone who has sold a Ferrari owns one, I’m confident they have driven one at least.

As well as gardening, most of us have had the time to be reflective and look at our business practices. Clearly from the still lessened commuter traffic, especially on trains into London, we can assume that companies obsessing over presenteeism were making a mistake.

The best talent for your business may not live a commutable distance from your office. For years now, I have worked from home representing companies that have head offices hundreds of miles away. If you have a good work ethic and a strong relationship with management, and you travel when needed, you can easily operate away from a head office.

Doing this gives businesses access to the right people in parts of the country where they

may otherwise have little traction. Those expensive rentals in cities, satellite offices and costly relocations of staff will logically become less necessary to businesses going forward.

Most progressive sales companies in particular do not need their sales teams to be officebased in 2020.

I RE-FOUND GARDENING AND HORTICULTURAL LOVES THAT WERE PERHAPS LOST TO THE RIGORS OF WORK Finally, while I have worried about access to plants from Europe post-Brexit and increased costs, I am optimistic about how British growers can improve their market position. Pricing will lose some of the sensitivity that has bankrupted many nursery owners over the years. If we can become better plant collection holders, we can internalise a lot of our market and really strengthen our position.

So, not ignoring the obvious doom and gloom, I am choosing to find positive ideas to come from it. I’m looking for opportunities and I’m confident that good business owners and their staff will be too.

ABOUT LEWIS NORMAND Lewis has worked in a wide variety of roles within horticulture over a 20-year career. He has lectured on garden design and horticulture, and designed gardens in the UK, Europe and the Middle East.

Since 2011, Lewis has focused on nursery sales, now working as sales manager at Bernhard’s Nurseries, and has helped to launch a number of new plants into the UK plant market. He is a specialist supplier to show gardens, supplying more than 100 gardens at major shows.

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write in National Plant Health Week within an International Plant Health Year. As you may recall, I’ve been banging on for some time now, about buying plants and trees from UK nurseries and getting UK grown plants. Why? Because plants from biosecure and vigilant UK nurseries are the safest route to using healthy plants free of risks. We already have OPM and Phytophthora here, both posing a risk to our environment.

However, the UK production of plants does not meet demand, and especially so in the landscaping market and with specific respect to trees. The plant business is international, so when can a plant be legitimately called UK grown? I set out to find out the views of industry colleagues and their trade association, the HTA, (who doesn’t have an official definition!).

However, the “consensus” definition of UK grown is: if it has spent six months on the ground in the UK it can be classed as UK grown, or it can be classed as such when raw material is bought in – such as plugs and bulbs – and put in a pot here and made into a saleable plant.

If you wanted to buy a car made in Britain, would you expect that all the components were made in Britain, too? No, parts are made globally and the car would be assembled in Britain. Well it’s a similar story for plants, with plugs, pots, fertilisers and growing media coming from different sources to be assembled and finished here in UK nurseries. It’s sad, but few UK nurseries now propagate their own plants, leaving it to other specialists. Young plants and trees are often started abroad and imported into the UK to be grown on to a saleable size. Do your customers expect a UK

IT’S SAD, BUT FEW UK NURSERIES NOW PROPAGATE THEIR OWN PLANTS, LEAVING IT TO OTHER SPECIALISTS grown plant to be grown its whole life here?

And do they/you ever ask where materials come from? In the nursery trade it is clearly understood that plants may be started elsewhere and finished here.

For some, the plant’s life/development/ modification in the UK will be: potted up, grown on for at least six months or until a saleable size is achieved. For example, this would only be

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WHEN IS A PLANT U K G R OW N ?

NICK COS LET T E XPLORES THE QUESTION OF WHEN A PL ANT CAN BE CONSIDERED TO BE UK GROWN

a few weeks for bedding plants. I’ve spoken with a number of nurseries and some are increasing their own home propagation and production of the high risk Xylella plants – like lavender and rosemary – to only offer UK grown plants. A large container tree grower is increasing control over the whole life of its trees, with direct sourcing of provenance seed and stocks, growing these on in its fields before containerising and preparing for sale.

This final process usually takes around 10 months and offers a biosecurity monitoring period for bare root imports.

The Horticultural Trades Association, with others, has launched a Plant Healthy Certification Scheme (PHCS) to assure plant buyers that vigilant biosecurity procedures are adhered to. The PHCS starts with a grower doing a self-assessment online to check their procedures meet the plant health management standards. The free assessment will identify areas for improvement. Those interested can

go to www.planthealthy.org.uk – in fact all growers, designers and landscapers should do this, it will raise your awareness of plant health.

While a number of landscape suppliers have started this process, COVID-19 has delayed the actual on-site verification of nursery systems by external auditors. Not all the PHCS pilot nurseries have yet been audited. I suspect the availability of trained and experienced auditors is also limiting the speed this scheme develops. Once up and running, it offers a clear assurance on plant health for our industry.

ABOUT NICK COSLETT Nick initially trained as a landscape architect, then parks manager, and for the last 20 years, he has worked with Coblands and Palmstead nurseries, running the Soft Landscape Workshops. He’s also been involved with BALI as national and regional chairs. Now, he is a BALI National Landscape Awards judge and Chalk Fund trustee.

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NURTURE

THE RISKS OF ROOTBALLS STEVE MCCURDY HELPS ROOTBALL BUYERS AVOID THE PITFALLS HE’S COMES ACROSS OVER THE YEARS

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hilst you may think rootballed trees are considerably less risky than bareroot, that is not always the case. The majority of trees and hedging that we buy to grow on, which mainly are rootballs, have been personally selected at production nurseries all over Europe, such is the importance we place on making sure our trees and their roots are of the highest quality and to ensure biosecurity. With my many years of experience, here are the nine points I believe are the most important as you consider what to buy: Sufficient transplanting As the roots cannot be inspected, it is critical that the grower is not cutting corners. Ask your supplier whether they will guarantee how many times the tree has been transplanted. If they do, and the tree fails, you will be able to check this by digging it up, washing off the soil and inspecting the roots. To give you some guidance, I have included this chart as a guide: • 10/12 circumference girth – twice transplanted • 12/14 to 16/18 – three times transplanted • 20/25 to 30/35 – four times transplanted • 35/40 to 45/50 – five times transplanted • 50/60 – six times transplanted • 60/70 – seven times transplanted, etc.

TWO EXAMPLES OF INSUFFICIENT ROOTS WHERE THE TREE DIED; THE ABIES NORDMANNIANA THAT HAS NOT BEEN REGULARLY TRANSPLANTED AND THE OAK THAT HAD BEEN TRANSPLANTED BUT LIFTED WITH TOO SMALL OF A ROOTBALL

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Rootball quality Rootballs can vary dramatically depending on the type of soil the tree is grown in, the machinery that was used to lift it, how skilled nurserypersons are completing the rootball in the field, the movement from the field and the subsequent loading and unloading of the tree to ship it to you. Things to understand when you are buying a rootball are: a) If the tree is grown on heavy clay it will be typically lifted with a Holmac, Pazzaglia or equal machine, which is essentially like a giant ice cream scoup with either one big or two blades. Make sure that the trunk is in the centre of the rootball, that the rootball is firm, not crumbly as it got dry, and that the hessian and net are securely holding everything into place.

A PAZZAGLIA TREE LIFTER WORKS WITH A TEAM OF NURSERYMEN LIFTING TREES

b) If the tree is grown on sandy soil, the tree will most likely be lifted by a Damcon or Optimal tree spade with four concave blades that cut the tree out of the ground.

Some of these blades are designed for a shallow lift of no more than 300 to 600mm, but there are a lot of concave lifters that will literally cut as much as, or even more than, a metre deep. Some of the better nurseries will either manually or mechanically remove 300-400mm of this subsoil point, which if a large rootball that has been regularly transplanted, should have few roots in it, thereby making it so much easier to handle and plant. Furthermore, few of these spades mechanically cut the point off, but there is no reason why the operator cannot draw back the blades and if the point doesn’t fall away, hand chop off the

A TYPICAL CONCAVE TREE SPADE, AND ANOTHER THAT HAS HAD ITS POINTS REMOVED THEREBY ELIMINATING THE POINT NEEDING TO BE CUT OFF

bottom prior to rootballing the tree.

Make it clear you will not accept trees with a pointed rootball as they are very difficult to handle and plant. c) Don’t forget to inspect the wire net and how close it is to the trunk.

Far too many nets are poorly completed too close to the collar, and whilst they will rot away, often not soon enough before getting imbedded in the growing trunk and a future years’ cambium.

Rootball size It is very important to check if the trees have been lifted with an adequately sized rootball. As a rough guide, you should lift a 12/14 with a 40cm blade, a 16/18 with a 50-60cm blade, 20/25 with a 60-70cm blade, etc., but the variety of tree and when it was last lifted should also be considered when making this decision. Some

A GOOD EXAMPLE OF A TREE THAT HAS BEEN LIFTED WITH TOO SMALL OF A ROOTBALL

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NURTURE

nurseries are rather sloppy about ensuring they lift with the right size spade and if already on a field lifting the majority of a smaller size trees with one size spade, may continue lifting the few bigger trees with the same size spade. This will result in you receiving a tree with too few roots which will likely fail. Even if it does make it, it will struggle to take, have a very inferior crown, and if the customer then rejects the tree, how difficult will it be to replace?

Uniform rootball shape This is very important for a number of reasons. If it is clay and severely slumped, this tells you that it was lifted when the ground was very wet, loaded on a trailer and/ or stored in a yard at a 30-450 angle causing the soil to move around the roots, which can compromise the tree and make it difficult to handle. When grown on sandy soil, the rootball can quickly deteriorate, especially if it dries out, and the sand will literally pour off the roots elongating the hessian wire net POOR ROOTBALLS – THIS BIRCH ROOTBALL WAS A GOOD rootball. You SIZE, BUT THE ROOTS ARE should report DRYING OUT, SAND IS FALLING OFF AND BREAKING THE NET rootballs like this

YOU SHOULD REJECT DAMAGED ROOTBALLS IF IT IS NOT YOUR FAULT, BUT WHEN NEEDS MUST, STRIP IT BACK AND POT OR PLANT IT IMMEDIATELY

to your supplier as soon as they arrive, rejecting if at all possible, or it not able, agreeing to do your best but still registering your claim. Dependent on how dry the roots are and the variety of tree, it may not be much better than firewood. If you have no choice but to plant the tree don’t waste any time, and once in the tree pit, remove the net and then carefully pack soil in between all the roots so no air pockets are left; then water it in and apply root stimulants.

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Weeds in the rootball This is a far bigger problem than many of you may realise, as many, such as horsetail (Equisetum arvense), is almost impossible to get rid of once you have planted the tree in your landscape project. It will quickly spread through your customer’s garden, just as it has through too many nurseries in Europe, some who have given up and now treat it like grass! At Majestic Trees we have a zero tolerance for horsetail and will, upon detection, quarantine the tree to treat and eradicate this weed, with no reoccurrence the following season before putting the tree back on sale. Of lesser importance, but still a serious problem, are other problematic weeds such as docks, nettles, ground elder and bindweed to name a few.

Pest and diseases in rootballs Biosecurity is a huge problem that has exploded with globalisation. Just as Mares Tail moves around Europe when dormant in rootballs, so many pest and diseases have moved around the world on plant material, but even more so on rootballs. Be very careful to only IF YOU ARE NOT buy your rootballs CAREFUL, YOU MAY from people you BE IMPORTING PINE PROCESSIONARY GRUBS can trust, who IN YOUR ROOTBALLS themselves have the highest standards and understand the seriousness of the problem. Too many will ship you trees with little if any due diligence, with pests traveling as grubs in the rootball, such as pine processionary moth which is a pest you don’t want to import and introduce to the UK, but is currently moving up Europe approaching Belgium. Whilst there are many other threats, make sure your supplier is very careful and ask them are they only buying stock they inspected and selected, knowing that the tree was definitely free of any given pest.

Appropriate lifting time Whilst not quite as critical as bare root, if the deciduous tree did not shut down properly, it will be far more stressed with a higher failure rate, especially when planted into the landscape. Some nurseries can be all too eager to start lifting trees before they should to improve their cash flow. It won’t be much good if they fail, and rarely is there any warranty on a rootball-supplied tree.

Planting depth There is a real problem in the trade where bare root trees are planted deeper, during field production, than the collar/root flare. This is the transition to the root system tissues and it is absolutely critical it remains above the ground. Some do die in the field due to this problem, but often it is not until final planting, and especially if you are planting on heavy clay, that the problem manifests itself. Over a number of years, the tree starts to decline and upon investigation it is realised that collar rot has set in, with no hope for the tree. We inspect every tree at Majestic Trees before it is potted to make sure we catch the problem, so when you do plant rootballs remember to inspect the root flare.

AT MAJESTIC TREES WE INSPECT EACH ROOTBALL AS IT IS SET OUT TO MAKE SURE THE ROOT FLARE IS EXPOSED AND POTTED CORRECTLY. SHOCKINGLY. IT IS NOT UNUSUAL TO REMOVE 100-150 OF TOPSOIL, AS SHOWN ON THIS QUERCUS ILEX

Eliminate the problem altogether Why not consider an AirPot grown tree instead? Besides the customer being far happier, the tree will have a full crown on it, rather than the struggling tree you get complaint calls about and do a number of visits to try and save, all the time costing you far more than you saved.

AIRPOT GROWN TREES OFFER A FAR SUPERIOR ROOTBALL IN TERMS OF BOTH QUALITY AND EASE OF HANDLING

A B O U T ST E V E M C C U R DY Steve is managing director of Majestic Trees, which he formed almost 20 years ago. He, often with another team member, spends weeks walking the fields of nurseries all over Europe, tagging tree stock he buys to grow on. Last season, he made 12 trips in his search to ensure the best quality and the UK’s highest biosecurity at Majestic Trees.

www.majestictrees.co.uk

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NURTURE

PRODUCING

I N A PA N D E M I C CORAL RUSSELL, CROP ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE AT THE TGA, TALKS ABOUT HOW THE TURF INDUSTRY HAS COPED OVER THE LAST FEW MONTHS AND CONTENDED WITH COVID-19

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his year, the TGA is celebrating 25 years, representing the turfgrass growers across the UK. Over the lifetime of the association, we have been involved with many projects to promote and protect the industry: • Research with Cranfield University on the impact of turf production on soil erosion/depletion in fields.

• Working with water industry bodies, water companies and other related trade bodies on the revision of the Water Bill and providing a good practice guide for promotion of environmental responsibility.

• Providing ongoing advice to water companies in relation to water use in turf, providing an industry body to promote “brown lawns are cool” during our summer drought periods.

• Successfully working with the London 2012 organising committee to get the TGA standards in the contracts for all grassed areas of the Olympic Park.

• And many other achievements benefitting UK turfgrass growers.

At the beginning of 2020 we were stuck in the midst of a very wet winter and counting

down the numerous Brexit news stories until we left the European Union. Never did we think that by the spring we would be battling a worldwide pandemic, which ‘locked down’ the country for three months.

As in most industries, during the first few weeks of the pandemic, our members were launched into unprecedented territory. Outlets for sales were closed overnight, building projects were paused, landscapers stopped their work and retail stores were closed. This was coupled with the advice that everyone apart from key workers should begin “working from home”.

IT IS A TESTAMENT TO OUR GROWERS THAT DESPITE COVID-19 AND THE UNUSUAL BRITISH WEATHER THEY QUICKLY AND SUCCESSFULLY ADAPT TO ANY HURDLE The TGA moved quickly to seek assurance that the work from home guidance did not apply to those who could not carry out their role from home. Lobbying letters were sent to the NFU and Defra to highlight the importance of the industry and to reiterate the need for workers to be allowed to carry out turf maintenance.

Turf growers adapted to the ever-changing guidance, many adopting ‘farm gate’ sales as the drive for home improvement rose. Protocols were developed to ensure contact-free delivery

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of turf and, on farms, working bubbles were adopted to protect staff. It is a testament to our growers that despite COVID-19 and the unusual British weather they quickly and successfully adapt to any hurdle.

As we move forward, it is unlikely that we can return to our face-to-face members' meetings before the 2021 season, so we have begun hosting webinars for our members – reviewing sustainable grass for turf production

by Barenbrug's Dr David Greenshields to the latest machinery update from Poggy, Campey Turf Care. Our webinars can be viewed again on our YouTube channel, Turfgrass TV. Going forward, the association will continue its efforts to promote natural turf production, to make the consumer aware that natural green spaces have a positive effect on mental health. We are working with the Turf Producers International to amplify its #KeepItReal messaging.

As Brexit looms, we will continue to work ever more closely with aligned organisations such as BALI, STRI and the Amenity forum to help safeguard the future of the industry.

We would hope to see a less challenging year as we look forward to 2021, though with continuing COVID-19 issues, Brexit and the weather, you can never be too sure.

C O N TA C T Turfgrass Growers Association BGA House, Nottingham Road, Louth, Lincolnshire, LN11 0WB Tel: 01507 607 722 Email: info@turfgrass.co.uk

www.turfgrass.co.uk

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21/10/2020 18:40

PROVENDER

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ADVERTORIAL

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aving recently invested in a high spec redesign of their garden and pool areas, a residential client of London Lawn Turf Company Limited (London Lawn) wanted to improve the surrounding lawn. The works to the garden and pool had caused what was already a sub-standard lawn to degrade further and it was decided to lift and relay the lawn with a high-quality replacement that would complement the entire garden.

Solution London Lawn, one of Rolawn’s premier stockists, used its extensive knowledge and experience to identify the appropriate degree of topsoil decompaction and levelling work required to ensure the project would be completed to the client’s exacting standards.

PROJECT The combination of D E TA I L S construction work and arid weather had Rolawn products resulted in hard ground Blended Loam conditions, both around Topsoil, the pool and under the Medallion® Turf, GroRight® Lawn old lawn. Consequently, Establishment importation of fresh Fertiliser high-grade topsoil would Lawn area be required to enhance 1,250m2 the soil structure, Sector providing a stone-free, Residential weed-free layer, Location containing a suitable Farnham nutrient content to

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nurture the young grass plants as they established. For aesthetic reasons, it was also necessary to create a level surface and firm foundation for the lawn.

To achieve this, London Lawn used 50m3 of Rolawn’s Blended Loam Topsoil, a high-quality, responsibly sourced, peat-free, multi-purpose topsoil combining loamy sand, silts, clays and organic soil conditioners.

Once spread and firmed, Rolawn’s Lawn Establishment Fertiliser was added to give the new turf the best possible start.

The outcome in the client’s own words “The lawn installation went extremely smoothly, and we couldn’t be happier with the way it turned out! We approached London Lawn Turf to carry out the works in the knowledge they work closely with Rolawn and have a good experience of working with Rolawn products.

Having researched the project prior to enquiring, we were certain we wanted to use Rolawn Medallion Turf on the project. The team on site was extremely knowledgeable and worked efficiently from start to finish. All of the materials delivered looked to be of great quality; the turf in particular was lush and deep green.

“The lawn has now been down around eight months and still looks spectacular.

I had expected it to suffer in the extremes of the recent summer, but after little maintenance and regular watering, the lawn looks as good – if not better – than when it was laid.”

Rory Cathryn, Farnham

ABOUT ROLAWN Rolawn is the UK’s leading turf grower and supplier of Britain’s Finest Turf, also renowned for its market leading topsoils and barks. It is certified to BS EN ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management and BS EN ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management.

With extreme heat threatening the success of the project, Rolawn’s next day delivery service, with prearranged delivery slots, enabled the London Lawn team to prepare the ground, then successfully lay the 1,250m2 of Medallion® turf as quickly as possible. Soil deliveries were made direct to site due to the volume used, with the turf processed via Rolawn’s unique Profresh® system, which has a cooling effect and removes harmful respiration gases, extending the life of harvested turf.

www.rolawn.co.uk

ABOUT LONDON LAWN TURF CO. The London Lawn Turf company is one of Rolawn’s premier stockists, working together to provide outstanding value quality and service. Established for more than 20 years, it supplies trade and retail customers throughout London and the home counties.

www.londonlawnturf.co.uk

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NURTURE

TOP PLANTS FOR 2021

PROVENDER NURSERIES Plants are going to have to work in 2021 in order to warrant planting space in the garden. A plant selected will need to have more than one string to its bow to firstly attract and get included in the planting plan. An ability to perform well in a small space is probably the most important quality to have moving forward. www.provendernurseries.co.uk

1. Step-over fruit trees really seem to be sparking designer’s imaginations again.

In particular for use in place of smaller formal hedging options such as Buxus. Practical, pretty and productive.

2. Parrotia persica Persian Spire 'Jlpn01' Compact and colourful, this plant has interest year-round.

3. Styrax japonicus ‘Evening Light’ has much to offer with an abundance of scented white flowers held in pendant clusters in the summer. Reaching only 2m, this fragrant delight can be planted in small mixed borders and even in a pot.

ENGLISH WOODLANDS

TOP PLANTS FOR 2021

During lockdown earlier this year, a combination of fabulous weather, time to enjoy our gardens and food shortages in supermarkets has inspired many people to grow their own fruits and vegetables.

We believe the ‘Grow your Own’ trend will continue into 2021, with garden production offering both physical and mental wellbeing and a sense of community in local neighbourhoods. www.englishwoodlands.com

1. Crab apples, mulberries and medlars for making jam and preserves.

2. Fan trained plums and cherries for space-saving solutions.

3. Apple and pear trees for your own mini orchard.

PLANT TRENDS 2021 W E S P E A K TO FO U R N U R S E R I E S A B O U T T H E I R P R E D I C T I O N S FO R P L A N T T R E N D S I N 2 0 2 1

The historic approach towards planting avenues of single species trees is gradually shifting with more mixed avenues being specified. Many tree specifiers, given the understanding of the very real risks of future tree diseases spreading, are now opting to plant a diversity of species. This is visually appealing and a biodiverse solution to tree disease risk.

Trees with contrasting amenity values can also be incorporated, supporting a wider range of wildlife. www.hillier.co.uk

TOP PLANTS FOR 2021

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1. Ginkgo biloba 2. Betula ‘Edinburgh’ 3. Ulmus ‘New Horizon’ 4. Acer platanoides ‘Deborah’

TOP PLANTS FOR 2021

CREEPERS NURSERY

We expect a return to ‘low maintenance, high performance’ type plants, with a higher demand for tough evergreen plants that cope with changing climate conditions.

Whilst we still see a lot of naturalistic-type planting schemes, there are increasing uses of slow-growing evergreens, with smart glossy foliage with flower colours going back to simple pure whites, purples and blues being more popular. www.creepersnursery.co.uk

Images ©Alice Cornwell

HILLIER

1. Hydrangea seemannii is an evergreen,shadetolerant climber with stunning lace-cap flowers.

2. Yucca rostrata ‘Blue Swan’ is perfect for pots.

It’s tough and incredibly versatile, providing architectural interest and style to complement most garden styles.

3. Osmanthus aquifolium resembles a giant stem of broccoli and is incredibly tough, coping with deep shade or bright sunny positions, and a range of soil types.

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Britain’s finest Turf Topsoil Bark Find out why Rolawn is the first choice for professional landscapers who demand Britain’s finest turf, topsoil and bark

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E D U CAT E

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21/10/2020 20:48

T H R E E WAYS TO

EDUCATE

INCREASE

YO U R S A L E S

Measure your material costs as a percentage of net sales This can be such a great indicator of whether you are charging enough, if there is unnecessary wastage in your business, or you are paying over the odds for your supplies. As a rough guide, materials should generally be around 30 to 35% of your net sales – sales minus VAT – which leaves sufficient profit to pay for labour and your overheads.

If you are certain that there is no wastage in your business and your materials are a higher percentage, potentially you are not charging enough, or you are not securing the best deal with your suppliers. When was the last time you shopped around or negotiated? If you always pay your suppliers promptly, there could be room for negotiation.

Evaluate your overheard expenditure This is a great exercise to do on a quarterly basis, to ensure that you are spending your hard-earned gross profits wisely.

Go through each cost line and honestly ask yourself: • Is this expense imperative to the running of my business?

• Could this expense be replaced by a cheaper alternative, without having a negative impact on the operation?

• Could I remove this expense altogether, without it impacting sales or service?

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Look for opportunities to add more value to your customers When business owners want to increase cash in the bank, generally they think ‘how can I get more clients?’ But this is just one of four ways of to achieve this goal, and it’s the hardest!

The four key solutions are to: • Reduce expenditure (as previously mentioned).

• Increase the amount someone spends with you.

• Increase repeat business.

• Lead generation.

HAVE A THINK ABOUT ALL THE DIFFERENT PRODUCTS AND SERVICES YOUR CLIENTS COULD BENEFIT FROM THAT YOU COULD OFFER

Having a brochure available with a choice of products for your customers to choose from, that you make profit on, may only increase your average spend slightly, but it could have a big impact on your profits.

In terms of new clients, have you thought about operating a referral scheme, where you incentivise your clients to readily refer and recommend you to others?

Finally, ensure that you have strong relationships with three to five referral partners who work with your target market but don’t compete. For example, a tree surgeon or window cleaner. By recommending their services, you will receive business in return.

To measure the health of your business, take our free BUILD system scorecard, available on our website: www.evolveandgrowcoaching.com

©Isaac Smith

T R A D E S C OAC H A L I S O N WA R N E SHARES HER ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR BUILDING YO U R B U S I N E S S

©Jed Owen

A N D P R O F I TS

Have a think about all the different products and services your clients could benefit from that you could offer. As a landscaper, have a look at the merchandise that is available that you could sell. Perhaps there are new products on the market?

A B O U T A L I S O N WA R N E R Alison Warner is founder of Evolve and Grow Ltd, a business coaching firm that specialises in helping owners of construction and trade businesses grow sustainably. She is also the author of bestselling book ‘Build and Grow: How to go from Tradesperson to Managing Director in the Construction and Trade Industries’: https://amzn.to/2QIb467 www.evolveandgrowcoaching.com

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EDUCATE

C O N S I ST E N CY I S K E Y E

IN AN EVER-CHANGING WORLD, WHERE THE NEW NORM IS THAT THERE’S NO NORM, LEE BESTALL EXPLAINS WHY HE THINKS CONSISTENCY IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER

asy to say and tricky to deliver, but consistency really is a game changer that will not only make your life easier (and that of your employees), but also help your clients to relax and let you get on with the job.

The Victorians were huge fans of consistency and streamlined their production methods by applying consistency to the manufacturing process, increasing efficiency and production levels (even at the cost of their workers’ health) and as far back as the Romans, consistency played an important role in their success. Big brands and restaurant chains have relied on consistency to deliver predictable service and profits for years, but in a new world, where individuality in all aspects is celebrated more than ever before, does consistency still play an important role in our daily work?

Consistency leads to predictability, and as a business owner that’s a great tool to possess, but in recent times, the world has become seriously unpredictable and thrown challenges and opportunities our way, meaning that we’ve all had to change. I firmly believe those who don’t, or wont, will get left behind.

No longer can we

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operate our businesses in the same way as before, so we’ve really had to question how delivering consistency in an unpredictable world is possible.

CONSISTENCY IN THE NEW WORLD IS ABOUT CONSISTENTLY ADAPTING Doing what you say you’ll do is one of the hardest things to deliver, but get that right, consistently, and you’ll have a great business.

We use systems and processes (in the form of flow charts) to train and deliver on this, and they are constantly changing. Version 1 soon becomes version 1.1. Consistency in the new world is about consistently adapting with speed, consistently reviewing and seeking better ways of working and consistently questioning.

Consistency develops trust and I think now more than ever, clients are seeking stability and consistency in things they can depend on, and although this may no longer be with massive corporate organisations, people still want to know that they are going to get a predictable result. When we sell design, we’re basically selling

a dream, an idea and if our clients don’t believe in that idea, or believe that we can deliver the reality, then we wouldn’t have an industry, so clients are more likely to ‘take the plunge’ and in my experience, spend more money, if every other result you have delivered (i.e. doing what you said you would) has been done consistently.

The results of delivering consistently may have changed, but in my opinion, the need for them hasn’t. Whatever happens in the economy, having the drive and determination to provide outstanding service, consistently, will be the ‘make or break’ for many companies.

Keeping up your standards, keeping up your prices and remaining consistent has got to be some of the best storm protection – whatever weather the new season brings.

A B O U T L E E B E S TA L L Lee Bestall has been designing and managing the construction of gardens in his signature style for more than 10 years – and his honest, genuine passion is infectious. He regularly writes gardening and outdoor-style articles for magazines, is brand ambassador for Spear & Jackson and a stand-in presenter for BBC Radio Sheffield’s Gardeners’ Question Hour. www.bestall.co.uk

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/10/2020 17:41

FINALISING FURLOUGH

EDUCATE

AS THE GOVERNMENT’S FURLOUGH SCHEME COMES TO AN END, IL AN BR AHA AND JASON MCKE NZIE OF OR ACLE SOLICITORS E XPL AIN WHAT’S NE XT FOR EMPLOYERS Changes to government support from 1 November 2020 The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) is due to end on 31 October 2020.

Understandably, both employers and employees have a lot of concern about what will follow. On 24 September 2020, the Chancellor announced a new scheme called the Job Support Scheme (JSS). The JSS will start on 1 November 2020 and run for six months until 30 April 2021.

This is a less generous scheme. Whilst government support will still be provided, employers will need to contribute more. The scheme’s rules (at the time of writing) are that the UK Government will pay a proportion of workers’ salaries where the worker has had their hours reduced but are working at least 20 percent of their usual hours. The employer will pay in full for the hours worked. For the hours not worked, the employer will be required to pay five percent of the pro-rata salary, and the Government will pay at least 62 percent.

This means employees are guaranteed to earn a minimum of 73% of their wages for working a minimum of 20% of their hours. For the self-employed who have either stopped working or suffered a significant fall, the maximum grant available has been raised from £1,875 to £3,750.

Employers cannot claim where employees are made redundant or given notice of redundancy during the period for which their employer is claiming the grant for them. If employers have made use of government loans, they have an extension of time to repay them. After the third month of the JSS, the government may consider changing the minimum hours worked requirement.

EMPLOYERS WILL NEED TO CAREFULLY WEIGH THE COSTS OF THE JSS BEFORE DECIDING WHETHER TO PARTICIPATE Employers wishing to make use of the scheme must agree the new short time working arrangements with their employees (or workers), which will involve making changes to the employment contracts. Notification must be made in writing. HMRC may request to see the notification. The workers or employees must have been on the payroll on or before 23 September 2020. Employers using the JSS can claim the Job Retention Bonus if they meet its eligibility requirements while using the JSS. The pattern worked by the employees or workers

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does not have to be the same each month, but the pattern does have to cover a minimum of seven days. The employees and workers do not have to be on the JSS all the time. The government expects participating companies to not pay out dividends or operate share buybacks while using the scheme.

The JSS does have its disadvantages.

There are additional costs for employers.

These include the requirements to pay the National Insurance Contributions and pension contributions, and of course the amount of salary the employers pay may be higher than under the CJRS. This is a possible disincentive to use it. For example, it could cost an employer £1,500 to employ one full-time worker on £17k but more than £2,000 for two part-time workers on same full-time salary.

Furthermore, larger businesses will need to show HMRC that their turnover has decreased due to the pandemic and meet a financial assessment test. This does not apply to small to medium sized businesses. The requirement for the employee or worker to have been on the payroll over a month before the JSS starts may also hinder recruitment. Finally, the JSS is paid in arrears, at the end of the working month.

This may affect cashflow for employers.

Employers will need to carefully weigh the costs of the JSS before deciding whether to participate. The scheme does come at a cost

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but may provide just enough support to keep your companies going during this difficult time.

Practical issues after furlough Annual leave Employers often ask about what discretion they may have when it comes to annual leave, especially when several employees may want time off around the same periods.

An employer can require their workers to not take annual leave on specific dates if it has not already been booked. Even if the leave has been booked, it is possible to cancel it at the employer’s discretion (and the employer should check the contract of employment for any relevant clauses). However, if the leave has already been granted, the employer should be cautious about cancelling it, particularly at short notice, as it is clearly an unpopular move. If the worker had made plans and booked travel, courses, or incurred other expenses, they may look to their employer to reimburse any lost monies that cannot otherwise be refunded.

The employer should also be aware that unreasonably cancelling holiday plans at short notice could give rise to an allegation from an employee that the employer’s conduct has breached a fundamental part of the employment contract – the implied term of mutual trust and confidence between the employed and the employer. This means the worker could resign and claim constructive dismissal. It is highly advisable to agree (rather than impose) changes to leave and allow as much notice as possible. Business

and operating constraints may limit how feasible this is, but it is best to be as conciliatory as possible (within reason).

Refusal to return to the workplace If an employee is concerned about COVID-19 and does not want to attend work, allowing the employee to work from home, if possible, may well resolve

IT WOULD ALSO BE BEST TO AVOID HASTY REACTIONS TO A REFUSAL TO COME TO WORK, WHETHER OR NOT IT APPEARS REASONABLE ON THE SURFACE the issue. Of course, for many positions in the landscaping industry, this may not be practical.

An employer would need to consider the current public health advice, the specific reason that the employee is concerned about attending work (including the commute) and whether it would be discriminatory to refuse home working, take disciplinary action, or withhold pay in light of the employee's refusal. Any disabilities or similar issues affecting the

employee or worker must also be considered; particularly those that may exacerbate vulnerability or fears about the pandemic (for example, an employee with severe anxiety).

If there are no concerns about potential discrimination and the advice on public health means that the employer can reasonably require staff to come into to work, an employer is entitled to require the employee to attend the workplace; if the employee refuses, the employer is able to start disciplinary proceedings. The misconduct would relate to refusal to follow reasonable instructions from management and unauthorised absence. The employer should carefully follow their disciplinary procedures and keep an eye on any relevant clauses in the employment contract.

It would also be best to avoid hasty reactions to a refusal to come to work, whether or not it appears reasonable on the surface. The employer should be aware that the specific employee or worker’s colleagues will very likely be aware of their colleague’s situation and the employer’s reaction. An unnecessarily open acceptance to refusals to come into work may not play well on those who have come in; on the other hand, an overly harsh reaction will likely affect morale.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is correct at time of writing. Due to the scheme continuously evolving, it may have changed after publication.

A B O U T O R AC L E S O L I C I TO R S Oracle Solicitors is an award-winning law firm with expertise in employment, commercial, criminal defence and extradition, personal injury and aviation. It was founded in 2002 by managing director Sajjad Shan and has since grown to include offices in London, Belfast, Frankfurt, and Addis Ababa. It has recently launched its Employment Protection Scheme – please visit:

www.oraclesolicitors.co.uk

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22/10/2020 17:11

EDUCATE THE HUMBLE TRAILER CAN DO SO MUCH MORE IF YOU THINK DIFFERENTLY

THINKING O U TS I D E T H E B OX ANGUS LINDSAY CONSIDERS HOW TIMES WILL CHANGE WITH COVID-19 AND BREXIT OUR NEW REALITIES, AND ENCOURAGES US TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE VEHICLES WE HAVE

T

he phrase “necessity is the mother of invention” – meaning that when the need for something becomes essential, you are forced to find ways of achieving it – has pretty much been the foundation for all good inventions, and remains as relevant today as it was back when Plato first came up with it.

With the changes and challenges ahead of us, we all need to think a bit smarter to become that little bit more efficient and effective in what we do. Living with COVID-19 and Brexit are our new realities, but reducing our impact on the environment remains a constant challenge in which we all must play our part. Come 1 January, it remains unclear where we will be if a deal can’t be struck with Europe; we could face tariffs on products we use on a daily basis from chainsaws to excavators (I am already aware of one manufacturer who is putting £4k per vehicle on new ones arriving in the UK after 1 January).

So, we need to think smarter and make better use of the assets and vehicles we employ in our day to day operations, but CONSIDER IDEAS FROM how do we do OTHER INDUSTRIES this? Specifying

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equipment in the first instance is a good start.

Considering their use, not just for the main job, but throughout the year. A good example is the beavertail truck. We all need to move machinery and equipment around and this configuration of vehicle negates the need for a trailer, making it easier for a two-person team to access sites without having to worry about reversing a trailer. The beavertail’s biggest limitation is it can only carry equipment which can be moved under its own power and transporting loose

WE NEED TO THINK SMARTER AND MAKE BETTER USE OF THE ASSETS AND VEHICLES WE EMPLOY IN OUR DAY TO DAY OPERATIONS material is a bit more difficult. Why not, therefore, work with the manufacturer and design something that better suits your needs and gives year-round flexibility?

Taking ideas from other industries and adapting them to suit your needs should be part of your everyday thinking as you might just see something which, with a little tweaking, may save you time and money. One thing is for sure, equipment costs are on the rise as we move towards cleaner fuel sources, and so getting the best out of it needs to be a priority, as does stretching its operational life through better maintenance regimes and using the right equipment for the job required.

As we are all too aware there is a need to reduce our reliance on chemicals for weed and pest control and the agricultural sector is at the

forefront of developing new technology to address this issue. This sector has been using spot application systems for field-scale weed control for many years; these systems can

JUST BECAUSE IT’S NOT AVAILABLE DOESN’T MEAN IT CAN’T BE BUILT

easily be adapted for hard surface spraying targeting only the weed and nothing else – saving vast amounts of chemical. Is it too much of a leap to fit them to road sweepers which are driving up and down the road anyway?

I would encourage everyone to review the vehicles and equipment they utilise and consider where they can streamline their operations by getting more out of the expensive prime movers and those who operate them.

It doesn’t hurt to think outside the box, but you just need to be prepared to return to reality when your hydrogen-powered remote-control multi-functional power unit doesn’t materialise.

A B O U T A N G U S L I N D S AY 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 has an Agricultural Engineering and Mechanisation Management MSc from Silsoe, and joined Glendale as machinery manager in 1994, then idverde UK in 2009.

angus.lindsay@idverde.co.uk

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19/10/2020 17:14

Built on strong foundations Pro Landscaper has been the established source for news, views, product information and opinions since its launch in 2011. With a print readership of over 5,000 professionals in the garden design, landscaping, grounds maintenance and landscape architecture sectors, and a monthly website reach of over 21,000 per month, it is still the go-to source for everything landscaping, especially in the year of our tenth anniversary.

Contact our specialist advertising team on 01903 777570 to speak about your advertising needs for 2021. The team will be able to provide bespoke solutions, offer advice and find a package that perfectly fits into your plans, whether that’s in print, online, email, direct marketing or any other way you wish to contact your potential customers.

LIFT AND LOAD 1.5 TON PALLETS WITH YOUR 1.8 TON MINI EXCAVATOR EXCAVATOR FORKLIFT • Fork loads up to 1.2 tons for a 1.8 ton excavator to 2 tons for a 3 ton machine • Take a 1.5 ton Forklift to site with your 1.8t mini excavator behind a 4x4 • Attached or detached in about 1 minute, with/without quick hitch • Lift powered by the hammer hydraulics • Adaptor plates to fit any make of excavator TYPE 3

Advert Template PL.indd 89

Type 4 • Distribute on site 1.5 ton pallets with a 1.5 ton mini excavator • Distribute on site 2 ton pallets with a 3 ton mini excavator

Type 3 (on trailer) • Take a pallet down a narrow1.2m wide alley • Load / unload pallets to/from lorry height (1.6m), lift and carry • Highly manouverable Type 3H • stack to 3 metres 1.2 tons with a 1.8 ton mini, 1.5 tons with a 3 ton mini

TYPE 3H

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22/10/2020 16:37

EDUCATE

B

efore COVID-19 reared its ugly head, it looked like ‘sustainability’ was going to be the 2020 buzzword, rather than ‘quarantini’ or ‘social distancing’. Momentum for green initiatives grew in 2019, and this seemed the time to start applying ideas and, as a business, to make choices that were better for the environment, rather than better for profit margins.

Arguably, with a global pandemic still on their hands, companies could sit on their haunches for another year, claiming a need to survive first and consider sustainable initiatives later. But has the green agenda slipped by the wayside? And is it now too expensive for companies to make the necessary switches?

Not as far as electric vehicles (EVs) are concerned, it would seem. Take the Benefit-in-

WE HAVE A MORAL RESPONSIBILITY TO THE AREAS WE MAINTAIN Kind (BIK) tax tables that were updated in July.

Those driving pure electric company cars will be taxed at 0% in 2020/21. Okay, electric vehicles are still expensive, and the BIK tax will increase to 1% in 2021/22 and 2% in 2022/23, but there’s little doubt that the government is steering companies towards zero-emission fleets.

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EMBRACING

ELECTRIC

WITH COMPANY VEHICLES RETURNING TO THE ROADS AFTER A BRIEF RESPITE, IS NOW THE TIME TO CONSIDER MAKING THE SWITCH TO AN ELECTRIC FLEET? Grounds maintenance company Tivoli is in the process of transitioning its fleet, where possible, to electric or hybrid versions, currently trialling the Nissan e-NV200. The company says it will probably need to invest around £15m in the ongoing project, as it looks to switch as much of its 650-strong fleet as possible to electric and work towards its goal of becoming carbon neutral by the end of 2021, opting for hybrids when electric is not the suitable option.

“We have a moral responsibility to the areas we maintain,” says CEO Darren Cunningham.

“We’re a green business at the end of the day, so why aren’t we making a much bigger commitment to the communities in which we serve and support?”

Tivoli is one of a few companies in the landscaping sector striving to switch to EVs.

Facilities management and professional services powerhouse Mitie recently purchased its 550th electric vehicle, putting it threequarters of the way towards its goal of transitioning 20% of its 700+ vehicles to electric by the end of 2020.

Alongside this purchase, Mitie’s landscaping arm launched a Plan Zero City Landscaping Service which it will be trialling in London before hopefully rolling out to other major UK cities later in the year. The new service aims to help reduced emissions in high pollution areas by using only electric vehicles and battery powered kit, amongst other measures. It forms part of Mitie’s aim to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2025.

Managing director of Mitie Landscapes Tim Howell says: “Our new Plan Zero City Landscaping Service offers the most

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sustainable service possible, from the choice of vehicles and tools, all the way through to how waste is disposed.

"While there’s still a way to go in the fight against climate change, we’re proud to be leading the industry with this sustainability-first approach to help to create greener cities.”

GETTING MORE FLEET VEHICLES TO GO GREEN WILL PLAY A KEY ROLE IN IMPROVING AIR QUALITY AND REDUCING CARBON EMISSIONS Is this a stance only larger companies working within urban environments can take?

After all, the usual problems remain with electric vehicles – lack of charging infrastructure, reliability, and the initial cost.

The first of these is the biggest barrier, according to a survey of more than 500 UK businesses by Survation commissioned by London First. Around half (49%) cited an absence of charging points, amongst other infrastructure, as the greatest issue. Cost was a close second (45%) and low availability of electric vehicles wasn’t too far behind (34%).

However, the same survey found that 30% of those with a company-owned fleet of vehicles are already starting to use electric vehicles, and nearly half (46%) have active plans to switch.

“Businesses are looking to the future and are ready to play their part in transforming how the nation’s vehicles run,” says Adam Tyndall, programme director for transport at London First. “The government needs to set out an ambitious and targeted plan to make sure firms considering building electric vehicle infrastructure can do so with confidence.

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“Getting more fleet vehicles to go green will play a key role in improving air quality and reducing carbon emissions. It’s critical that the people managing those vehicles get clarity about the rules, charge point network and support available to them as they make the jump to greener vehicles.”

For companies that are unable, for whatever reason, to transition to electric vehicles, there are other ways they can lessen their environmental footprint. Signing up to campaigns such as Idling Actions’ #enginesoff, for instance, which asks London-based firms to pledge that their employees will not leaving their engines idling whilst parked. It is offering London drivers free training around how best to reduce air pollution caused by vehicles and is providing a toolkit of resources to businesses.

As lockdown restrictions continue to ease, fleets are gradually returning to the roads – recent research by vehicle tracking system supplier Quartix shows UK fleet activity levels are now at 91% of the ‘norm’, or pre-lockdown levels. Whilst it’s great to see that businesses are back up and running, pollution levels are likely to rise as a result unless companies

consider the impact their fleets are having on the environment. And companies won’t have much of a choice soon, either. The government set a target last year for the UK to hit net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and there was a consultation earlier this year on whether to ban

POLLUTION LEVELS ARE LIKELY TO RISE AS A RESULT UNLESS COMPANIES CONSIDER THE IMPACT THEIR FLEETS ARE HAVING ON THE ENVIRONMENT the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2035, five years earlier than originally planned.

COVID-19 might be the biggest challenge at the moment, but there are obstacles companies will need to overcome in the fight against global warming, and it’s surely better to be ahead than burying your head in the sand.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/10/2020 18:42

G

one are the days when the only vehicle needed by a landscaping company was a 3,500kg drop side tipper with trailer – it was built like a tank and outlasted most of your staff.

Fast forward to today, and with restrictions on the size of vehicle (GVW) that anyone who passed their test after 1997 can drive or has the ability to tow – without passing a further towing test – combined with more and more cities introducing low emission zones and the drive towards electric vehicles, to say the job of the fleet manager has become more challenging is an understatement.

AS BATTERY POWERED COMMERCIAL MOWERS ARE DEVELOPED AND INTRODUCED, FURTHER THOUGHT IS NEEDING TO BE GIVEN TO THE TRANSPORTATION OF THIS EQUIPMENT

TOW I N ’

AIN’T EASY

are fully electric and although payload is compromised, the market’s application where vehicles are not doing high mileage means the vehicle’s range is not an issue.

Driven by legislation and health and safety, niche products have been developed over the last five or so years which have seen manufacturers like LCVT Ltd and AKFS

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LIGHT COMMERCIAL V E H I C L E T E C H N O L O GY (LCVT) EXPLAINS HOW MOVING EQUIPMENT HAS NEVER BEEN MORE CHALLENGING

LCVT COMBINATION BEAVERTAIL TIPPER

FIAT DOBLO CARGO WORKUP WITH TIPPER CONVERSION AND MESH CAGE

The need to also achieve better utilisation out of vehicle fleets has meant some fleet managers having to go back to the drawing board when it comes to vehicle design and dual-purpose usage.

Most mainstream vehicle manufacturers have introduced within their portfolio small electric van options and the larger 3,500kg range GVW is now being launched, the majority being standard white van product, not the core chassis cab derivatives the industry utilise. Fiat, LDV and Renault are three manufacturers which have introduced chassis cab platforms which

SIDE TIPPER BODY LOADED WITH COMMERCIAL MOWER

ADVERTORIAL

introducing Low Floor 3.500kg models that offer the market not only higher payloads but also a lower working floor height which has reduced injuries to operatives and the ability in some cases to move away from needing to tow trailers.

Other key products introduced to the market over recent years have included vehicles which combine the ability to tip general waste in the winter months and move machinery around in the spring/summer, resulting in far better year-round utilisation.

Smaller specialist vehicles have also been developed again to satisfy key applications when operating in parks and other public open spaces which need vehicle access.

As battery powered commercial mowers are developed and introduced, further thought is needing to be given to the transportation of this

equipment due to the weight increase of the machine, and the need to potentially move to a vehicle to transport these heavier machines

HISTORICAL METHOD OF MOVING MACHINERY

which will require an Operator’s Licence or back to the towing of trailers and the acceptance of increased costs relating to driver training and the vehicles themselves.

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FINDING THE R I G H T VEHICLE

N75.150(E) TIPPER

I S U Z U T R U C K TA L K S U S T H R O U G H I TS R A N G E O F C O M M E R C I A L V E H I C L E S FO R T H E L A N D S C A P I N G S EC TO R

I

suzu Truck (UK) ltd offers a model range of commercial vehicles that are suitable for a landscaping company. Vehicles run from 3.5t up to 13.5t GVW, with the 3.5t Grafter dropsider and Grafter tipper being amongst the most popular choices. The Grafter Utilitruck is also well suited, featuring a tipper body with a lockable tool pod for storage.

Isuzu Truck also sells pre-bodied trucks in its Driveaway range. The Driveaway range of tippers, dropsides and utilitrucks is very popular, especially at 3.5t GVW. Box, curtainside, tipper and dropside variants are also available at 7.5t GVW. Even though vehicles in its Driveaway range are designed as out-of-the-box products, it’s common to customise them to a point, chiefly with accessories and safety equipment.

Buyers have options such as tow bars, flashing beacons, fall protection, cage conversions for tipper and Chapter Eight safety livery.

The ‘Grafter’ at 3.5t (N35), is a robust and reliable vehicle. Its cab over engine access with its narrower chassis is nimble to navigate the tightest of areas. The high driving position, complemented by blind spots reducing and vision enhancing deep cut side windows, are an

N35.125(S) 6D TEMP CHASSIS

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obvious advantage. Due to the forward cab design they are able to fit equivalent body length to that of European manufacturers but reduce the overall length of the vehicle, therefore tight spaces and narrow roads complement their 3.5t range.

NEW CUSTOMERS TO ISUZU ARE OFTEN PLEASANTLY SURPRISED AT HOW TOUGH AND DURABLE THE GRAFTER PROVES TO BE The Grafter can handle an impressive amount of mileage during its working life.

Tree surgeons and landscapers usually agree on three main benefits of Isuzu Trucks (UK)’s vehicles: their impressive payload capacity, how easy they are to manoeuvre and their ability to tow up to 3.5t (subject to specifications).

New customers to Isuzu are often pleasantly surprised at how tough and durable the Grafter proves to be in comparison to other manufacturers’ vehicles.

N35 Grafter range • Two engine variants: 120PS (1.9L) and 150PS (3.0L) • Euro 6, LEZ & CAZ compliant • White or Flint Grey option • Manual or automatic gearboxes • Available with single and twin rear wheel configurations • Up to 3.5t towing capacity (on manual gearbox) • Fourth or fifth-year Extended Warranty and Free Servicing Package available

• ‘Driveaway’ range (Tipper, Dropside and Utilitruck) • A tow bar option is available (T&C’s apply) If you have an Operator’s Licence and are looking for a truck with the same compact cab options as its 3.5t trucks, but more payload capacity, a 5.5t or 6.5t truck could be just the job for you.

At 7.5t (N75), Isuzu Truck (UK)’s vehicles have long been admired for their impressive payload carrying capacity, and they have physical footprint far smaller than the European manufacturers’ 7.5t vehicles. With their compact dimensions, the 150bhp engine is suited to urban and rural operations, whilst the 190bhp engine is suited for longer distances. Low chassis weight gives a higher axle tolerance across the vehicle.

N75 range • Two engine variants: 150PS (3.0L) for low mileage operations; or 190PS (5.2L) for regular road, motorway and higher mileage journeys • Euro VI, LEZ compliant • Manual or semi-automatic gearboxes • Suitable for all body configurations • Day and Crewcab options • 'Driveaway' range (Box, Tipper, Dropside, Curtainside) Isuzu Truck (UK) Ltd offers a range of vehicles, with a selection of cabs, wheelbases and body specifications to suit every requirement, excellent parts availability and complete servicing solutions. Many models are available with semi-automated transmissions for ease of use and reduced driver fatigue. Dual passenger airbags are also standard across its range.

All its vehicles comply with Euro 6 emissions, can tow up to 3.5t and come with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty (T&C's apply) and Isuzu Assist as standard, supported by its CARE System of customer support.

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19/10/2020 18:31

ENHANCING OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES

Create a buzz with

Lindum

Wildflower Mats, Sedum and Turf for landscaping and green roofs

Green innovation to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change - Leading the way with our 100% plastic free Wildflower Mat.

Tel: 01904 448675 @lindumturf

Email: lindum@turf.co.uk www.turf.co.uk

A specialist in restoring old or finishing newly installed timber structures – Decking, Fencing, Garden Furniture…. Decking Décor works closely with Landscapers, Deck Installers and Garden Designers to help create the look both they and the client wish to achieve.

T: +44 (0)1904 655583 M: +44 (0)7813 832352 E: info@deckingdecor.co.uk www.deckingdecor.co.uk

LCVT Low Floor Plant Hire Vehicle

LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY

The LCVT Low Floor vehicle is the default option for the Grounds Maintenance market. The chassis has been designed specifically for commercial applications, with a payload of 1,500kg* and floor height of 500mm the vehicle addresses working at height and trailering issues in the sector.

A World of innovation

Key features of the vehicle;

The unique aluminium perforated floor is both light weight and offers high levels of grip to both machines and operatives in all weather conditions.

1,500KG payload 500mm floor height Selection of bed lengths & widths Unique aluminium floor

For more information contact Steve Elwell on: 07795 383707 or email: steve@lcvt.ltd *payload is dependant on vehicle specification and includes 20 litres of fuel but no driver.

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21/10/2020 23:54

ADVERTORIAL

LOW MAINTENANCE

WITHOUT COMPROMISE A Homeowner’s Perspective TAL ASE Y GROUP CAUGHT UP WITH ONE OF ITS END USERS TO DISCOVER THE IMPACT AND BENEFITS OF HAVING A ‘LOW MAINTENANCE’ GARDEN MAKEOVER

P BEFORE

P ROJ ECT D E TA I L S Homeowner Peter Brookes Location Leicester Products used Luxigraze artificial grass: 40 Luxury and Vitripiazza Italian porcelain: Anno range, Biscotto Installed by Groby Landscapes Completion date 19 May 2020

eter Brookes, a homeowner from Leicester, took the opportunity like many others to make some home improvements during the spring and summer lockdown period. On a recent photo shoot, Talasey Group’s marketing manager Rebecca Hughes put a few questions to Peter to find out more.

As a keen gardener, Peter has always taken pride in his outdoor space, tending to it daily and enjoying entertaining in it. However, a few years ago he was sadly diagnosed with a serious heart condition that left Peter unable to continue with general garden maintenance. “When I was taken ill and could do very little work, the garden’s appearance soon deteriorated and I found it frustrating seeing the things that needed doing but being unable to deal with them,” says Peter. “I wanted to cut down on heavy digging and the need to constantly mow the lawn and overall lighten the workload to keep it neat and tidy.”

AFTER

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ADVERTORIAL

PETER BROOKes How did you decide on the products you choose?

Peter: I spent a lot of time visiting various merchants and garden centres, comparing products and discussing the pros and cons of the different available products. The 40 Luxury (Luxigraze) and Biscotto (Vitripiazza) ticked all the boxes from my viewpoint in terms of quality, appearance, value for money, durability, and most of all, practicality of their upkeep.

What impact has the garden makeover had on your everyday life?

Peter: It has given me more time to sit out and relax in the garden, rather than constantly making mental notes of what needed doing to it next, to keep it neat and tidy. It was becoming a real chore and now it is anything but, giving me pleasure once again. It is good to have the option of doing light work myself to keep it neat and tidy and adding my own touch of creativity with the planting.

How are you finding looking after the paving and grass?

Peter: Very easy! The new lawn and patio areas virtually look after themselves! I’ve brushed the grass with a yard brush on two or three occasions and learned that if you brush with the pile of the tufts, dead leaves and twigs brush off quickly and easily to be disposed of and is far quicker than mowing and edging! As opposed to jet washing and scrubbing the old slabs, I have lightly hosed the porcelain; this was a quick 10-minute job and I have only had to do it once since its installation!

Would you recommend the products to others?

Peter: I have already recommended the products to several friends, and because of seeing my garden, two sets of friends have already had theirs done, using the same products. They really are beautiful!

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AFTER

We are pleased to report that Peter’s health has improved tremendously over the past few months and with the makeover he can enjoy a stunning yet low maintenance garden “without worrying about it looking neglected”.

Finally, Rebecca asked if Peter was pleased with the garden overall and he commented: “I felt like a child at Christmas, the garden was just what I’ve always wanted!”

THE NEW LAWN AND PATIO AREAS VIRTUALLY LOOK AFTER THEMSELVES! The Talasey range of products includes installation tools and accessories as well cleaning and maintenance solutions. For Peter, the Luxigraze Artificial Grass Cleanser keeps his 40 Luxury clean and smelling natural, while the Pavetuf Porcelain Cleaner keeps his Biscotto Italian porcelain paving effortlessly spotless.

BEFORE

Despite the challenges of 2020, Talasey Group is still thriving and is proud to have been able to continue to successfully provide a vast range of high-quality landscaping solutions to the industry from all of its current seven product brands: Natural Paving, Vitripiazza, Baksteen, Pavetuf, Luxigraze, Resiscape and Piranha, composite decking new for 2020. The ‘Total Talasey’ portfolio of product brands, bespoke manufacturing services, customer care, technical support and the recently formed landscape team really provides a one-stop shop for landscaping professionals.

For samples, brochures and general information on the products and services mentioned, visit: www.luxigraze.co.uk, www.vitripiazza.co.uk or contact Talasey Group at www.talasey.co.uk, info@talasey.co.uk or 0330 333 8030.

A B O U T TA L A S E Y G R O U P

LUXIGRAZE INSTALLATION

VITRIPIAZZA PATIO SECTION

Talasey Group is one of the UK’s leading independent suppliers of landscaping solutions.

The fast-growing Doncaster-based company is an ethical and responsible importer of materials for its seven core product brands: Natural Paving, Pavetuf, Vitripiazza, Baksteen, Luxigraze, Resiscape and Piranha. The company, which celebrated its 15th birthday last year and has a 70-strong team, supplies merchants directly – from individual independents through to national chains.

www.talasey.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 113

19/10/2020 18:36

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The lesson of this year is most certainly that we should never take anything for granted.

Our normal way of life has been interrupted on a scale none of us could CLARE MORGAN have ever imagined.

Today, we are asking questions about the spaces we inhabit like never before. Landscaping remains as relevant as ever, with the focus on personal space and bringing good design to the forefront of our living and working environments.

Porcelain paving continues to grow in popularity with designers and landscapers using these products in ever more creative ways. From paving to pools, outdoor kitchens and built-in furniture to warming firepits and calming water features, we have everything you need to create the perfect outdoor space. Using

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porcelain also has the added benefit of helping to create a hygienic environment, providing an inhospitable surface for bacterial growth.

CASATUA porcelain products combine unbeatable durability and ease of maintenance

114 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

Casa Tua.indd 114

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with the beauty and style of Italian design, as well as the assurance of sustainable manufacture and the full sales and technical support of a company with many years of experience in the ceramic sector. The ‘Made in Italy’ label stands for best in manufacturing quality, as well as exceptional green credentials and environmental sustainability.

The first CASATUA collection includes 19 ranges and 45 colourways, focusing on the larger format sizes. Contemporary styles include the material look of concrete and the naturally oxidised effects reminiscent of beautifully aged metal. The variability and texture of natural stone are beautifully reproduced with all the benefits of porcelain and one of the largest collections of wood effects with a varied collection to suit all tastes.

Special pieces, such as bullnosed steps, treads and drainage grids, are available in stock sizes and bespoke design to complement the collection. The entire product range also

benefits from the availability of matching interior tiles and large format cladding and slabs; allowing seamless integration from indoors to outdoors and the ability to clad walls, create furniture, planters and more.

Providing porcelain paving for all styles and budgets – available directly from a leading manufacturer – in CASATUA, you are assured of complete confidence in your porcelain products.

Designed and sustainably manufactured in Italy, encapsulating modern techniques with over 25 years of expertise, we are committed to supplying genuine Italian quality at a competitive price.

For more information, please email: clare.morgan@abkgroup.it www.casatuaoutdoor.com

O U T D O O R

L I V I N G

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EDUCATE

G AT E WAY TO T H E

C OTSWO L D S SMITHS (BLETCHINGTON) INTRODUCES US TO ITS SMITHS COTSWOLD RANGE AND IDEAL USES FOR ITS PRODUCTS

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he UK has many regions of wonderful natural building stone. The Cotswold limestone must be up there as being the best of all. Delicate hues of creams and honey stone has made it one of the most sought after building materials for centuries – and made the Cotswold Hills an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

The well established family firm of Smiths & Sons (Bletchington) has been quarrying in the region for many years and would now like to re-introduce (or remind you) of its extensive Cotswold range of products.

Perhaps the most recongnisable material is the Cotswold Walling Stone, seen running for miles and miles over the Cotswold fields – and many a boundary wall for house and gardens.

To complement the walling stone, Smiths is to ‘bring on line’ a quality Cotswold Building Stone. This has the same delicate hues, but is a material suitable for construction, building and landscaping opportunities.

In addition to these more recognisable products, Smiths Cotswold Range includes complementary sands and aggregates.

There are two graded building sands to enhance the Cotswold walling and building stone. In addition, the aggregate range includes: • Traditional Cotswold Limestone Chippings – ideal for footpaths, borders and general landscaping.

• Cotswold Gravel Chippings – a more durable product, perfect for driveways, footpaths and general landscaping.

• Self Binding Path Gravel – great for foot and cycle paths, in fact any areas where you require a firm compacted surface for small wheeled access, buggies, golf trollies and wheelbarrows, for example. It is a crushed limestone, so one can achieve a path with a desired Cotswold effect.

• Gabion Stone – a variety of sizes to pack the wired gabion baskets. Can be used for ground stabilisation, retaining walls, river bank protection or in a variety of landscaping

features, such as the ha-ha featured. This feature can also benefit from using Cotswold walling stone to ‘face’ the baskets.

WATERSIDE GABION LIMESTONE

• Rockery Stone – irregular sized Cotswold stones/boulders individually selected for landscaping and rockery construction.

• Oxford Shingle – a blend of Cotswold’s neutral beiges and creams makes this a perfect product for driveways, paths and general landscaping. Plus it’s available in four sizes, making its uses even more flexible.

As you would imagine, all of the Smiths Cotswold Range has majestic colours that are admired. Their colour subtlety make them a perfect blend in most environments, making a quality statement without appearing too brash. A product that will truly enhance most landscaping projects.

Smiths are proud, and rightly so, of this range of Cotswold products. There are other products and services available that cater for a variey of sectors, infrastructure, agriculture, construction and the domestic market.

The products mentioned are available in both tipper loads, using various lorry sizes, or in bulk bags. Delivery is available to mainland UK, in quantities that suit your requirements.

C O N TA C T Smith & Sons (Bletchington) Limited Enslow, Kidlington, Oxfordshire OX5 3AY Tel: 01869 331 281 sales@smithsbletchington.co.uk www.smithsbletchington.co.uk

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 117

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PEOPLE

OUT & ABOUT

WYE VALLEY

AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

T

he quest to find stunning staycation spots continues this month as we visit Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

One of the area’s best-known landmarks is May Hill, from which you can see anywhere between 8 to 12 counties. On a clear day, the Welsh hill can be seen beyond the Forest of Dean.

Planted to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria, the hill is capped by a clump of pine trees. The surrounding land is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its acidic grasslands and heathland habitats.

Spanning 24,000 acres, the Forest of Dean has plenty to explore. But it’s Puzzlewood in particular, that has played host to Time Lords, Stormtroopers and Wizards. As soon as you enter the woodland, it’s not hard to see why it has attracted film makers and inspired writers.

There’s only one place to fully admire the glory of this landscape, though – Symonds Yat Rock.

Walking trails and cycling trails wind through the forest itself, but it is from its viewpoint on the ancient hill fort that’s truly breathtaking – and not just because of the climb. www.wyevalleyaonb.org.uk

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WORK

PEOPLE

Best project We’ve had a few projects to be proud of over the 15 years we’ve been in business; when you really click with the client, and they completely value and trust you, that’s when the project turns out the best for the both of you.

When I look back, the most successful projects have been for people who genuinely want to spend more time in their garden, who actually like gardening!

Colleagues We are lucky enough to have built a team that is not afraid of new challenges and will work together to take on complicated projects with a positive ‘make it happen’ attitude. We don’t tell them all enough how grateful and proud we are of them and what they put into the company, so here it is in black and white!

Mentors My mum was my entrepreneurial inspiration; even though when growing up I saw how overworked she was, I still always wanted to own a business. She is still my mentor now, drawing on her past experience even though she was in manufacturing; all businesses face the same issues and challenges and follow a similar journey. Another significant mentor was my college tutor when on my design course. We had started being asked to design gardens quite early on in the course, so I had to enlist his help!

Issues to address We are constantly trying to improve and diversify.

Sometimes it feels like we are trying to do too much, and we get a bit overwhelmed, but we always find a way through. We do need to consolidate more, but diversification and flexibility is even more important in the current times.

High and low points of your career We had a great year in 2018/19 when we won

a collection of awards – High Sheriff Award for Enterprise, APL & BALI Awards, Pro Landscaper Business Award – and in the last 12 months it’s been an honour to be accepted onto the committee and now as vice chair of the APL. The response and support we’ve had in the development of the Landscape Academy has really boosted us and also the events we have held at our studio are a real high.

Generally what gets me down is when a client doesn’t appreciate the work that has gone in and your work is undervalued. It’s a constant battle to try to get clients to understand how much thought and work goes on behind the scenes.

What you hope to achieve in the next 12 months Our next goal is to have our own premises and launch the website for the development of the products side of the business, Outdoor Living by Urban.

LIFE/STYLE

HOLLY YOUDE H O L LY YO U D E , O W N E R O F U R B A N L A N D S C A P E D E S I G N , O P E N S U P O N T H E H I G H S A N D LOWS O F R U N N I N G A B U S I N E S S , A S W E L L A S G R E AT I N S I G H TS F R O M H E R T R AV E L S A R O U N D T H E WO R L D

INSPIRATION People I’ve never been one for particular people being an inspiration, more a type of person and I am constantly inspired by up-and-coming company owners who don’t realise what a great business they are building and how much they are helping others in the industry. I’m also drawn towards people who show true passion and drive and take the time to share their knowledge. There is a great deal of mutual appreciation and great relationships, even

122 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

Lifestyle Holly Youde.indd 122

between rival companies, and as we are always open to collaboration, we love this aspect of the industry.

My favourite design styles are relatively simple styles with bold lines and simple sculptural features, against a naturalistic

backdrop. I appreciate higher quality materials and am inspired by anyone who finds an unusual way to use a material or create a feature in an unusual way. I love architecture, though I don’t spend much time in cities; but a recent trip to New York had me walking around for miles and looking upwards for days, I enjoyed every minute absorbing the diversity of the architecture there.

Gardens I’m ashamed to say I’m not much of a visitor of gardens. Much of what little spare time I have is spent trying (and failing) to keep fit, but I do explore lots of lakes and mountains and I do love a good unspoilt landscape.

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21/10/2020 17:16

PEOPLE

PERSONAL Most fun you’ve ever had?

On a personal level, the most fun I’ve ever had was travelling in New Zealand the year before we started the business.

We drove around for four weeks in a camper van basically ticking off as many experiences as we could on the extreme sport list – bungee swings, white water rafting, skydiving, diving, you name it. I can’t wait to go back there but have lots of places on the travel list first. Work can be fun too, I enjoy the set up or start of something new, maybe that’s why we tend to try new things and diversify.

Hobbies I like to keep fit but don’t always dedicate enough time to it. I tend to let things slide and then decide one day that something needs to be done, and end up overdoing it – I can’t just do gentle exercise, it has to be boot camp or a PT session, if it’s a walk it has to be a hike.

I did a few triathlons about 10 years ago and have started training again for one – it was cancelled this year, so hopefully by next summer it will be able to happen. Our dog gets me out on walks although he is getting older now so no major hikes with him anymore. Our main hobby is mountain biking – living in North Wales, it makes it easy to get out into the mountains most Sundays and get away from it all.

Food I am a bit of a foodie, but I don’t often cook – not properly, anyway – but have enjoyed getting back into a bit of baking over the last few months whilst working from home a bit more.

I do a mean raspberry and lemon drizzle cake and my signature maple and pecan cupcakes.

TRAVEL Places you’d like to go Everywhere. Haven’t been to South America, Africa or South East Asia yet, so have plenty on the list.

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Lifestyle Holly Youde.indd 123

©Victoria Lee

Places you’ve been Our kind of holiday tends to avoid cities and takes us up into the mountains, with the bikes of course! We also ski/snowboard, so the French Alps is a favourite and also Vancouver and Whistler, Canada. We spent a couple of months travelling in Australia and New Zealand before we started the business which was a great experience, so we do like to visit more than one place on every trip away if we can. Every year we say we must do more trips away and take more time off, but it rarely works out! I do like a good holiday cottage UK trip though; if we get away for the weekend it’s usually to the Lake District as we can be there in a couple of hours.

I do enjoy planning trips. I did plan our honeymoon travelling in Cambodia and Vietnam but for various reasons we couldn’t go, so that trip is still to be had (I won’t forget about it!).

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PEOPLE

WHAT’S

YOUR

ROLE? KRISTINA CLODE

KRISTINA CLODE GARDEN DESIGN WE FIND OUT FROM KRISTIN A CLODE WHAT IT ME ANS TO BE A GARDEN HISTORIAN, AS WELL AS SOME OF HER FAVOURIT E PROJECTS FROM WORKING AS A GARDEN DESIGNER

What are your current roles?

I run my own business and I don’t have anyone working for me, so my role is a bit of everything, really. Primarily, I’m a garden designer. I do everything from full garden designs right down to small border reshapes. I always begin with an initial consultation (which I charge for). Here, I can gauge what the client needs and what they could afford. Sometimes, I just offer advice.

I’m also a qualified garden historian, having undertaken an MA in Garden History at the University of London. Quite often that involves working with people who have a period property who want to create a garden that’s in keeping with that era.

Why is it important to charge for this initial consultation?

I see that initial consultation as a service.

I’ll discuss right away with the client what might be appropriate for the garden – all my thoughts and ideas. I’m giving them a lot of information.

I’m not just sizing up the space and handing them a quote. But that information is important, as you’re trying to entice that client to you as a designer – you want to give them the assurance that you’re up to the job and I do that by sharing my ideas. It works both ways really, you charge them for the initial meeting, but you’re ready to give them a lot of information in return.

SPELDHURST GARDEN

Tell us more about your role as a garden historian.

I can undertake research into a house and gardens history which involves digging up old maps and old news stories. I can give background information on a historic garden style or designer, provide garden design ‘recreations’ or a particular era and undertake garden restorations with a historic theme.

Mostly, I get clients coming to me because they want their garden to be appropriate to the property. I tend to give the garden the look and feel of that era, with a slightly modern twist, using planting that’s more suitable and less intensive than perhaps would have been there originally.

I used to work in fashion and I studied a lot of fashion history. You’d see styles coming back into fashion all the time, and it’s the same with gardens. Having that knowledge of all the eras of garden design around the world is such a fantastic source of inspiration too.

WOODLANDS, EAST SUSSEX

HAVING THAT KNOWLEDGE OF ALL THE ERAS OF GARDEN DESIGN AROUND THE WORLD IS SUCH A FANTASTIC SOURCE OF INSPIRATION 124 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

Whats your role Kristina Clode.indd 124

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PEOPLE

What are some of your favourite projects you’ve worked on?

It’s really difficult to pick just one. Obviously, my own garden is probably my favourite as I get to keep working on it. I enjoy working on friends’ and family’s gardens for the same reason.

I recently created a garden for my parents which was fantastic. Because I know them so well, I could really inject the garden with their personality and preferences. It was a completely blank canvas. My dad was a huge fan of castles and gardens – something I found frustrating as a child, being dragged around European castles, but which obviously had an effect on me – so I could incorporate statues and parterres and lots of vivid colour. It was such a special project.

Another favourite has to be my children’s school’s garden. It was a voluntary garden and not only did I design it for free, I ended up building it and now maintaining it for free. But it’s really worthwhile. I wanted to create a garden which would change throughout the year, was really colourful, with grasses that would grow taller than the children.

Not only is the garden hugely popular with the kids – the reception class even told one teacher they could feel and taste the colours – it became important to the teachers during lockdown, as a respite. It’s great doing huge transformations on garden which end up on the pages of magazines, but when you get to do a garden for a school, you feel like you’re encouraging the next generation of horticulturalists and people who will love nature.

KRISTINA’S OWN GARDEN

DESIGN PLAN FOR KRISTINA’S GARDEN

Do you have a particular design style?

As a designer I always try to adhere to my client’s requirements. But I think after you do a few gardens, you do develop a style. I like wild and loose planting but often mix it with a formal lay out. I enjoy using a fusion of ornamental and native plants too, because I want to create

IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT DESIGNING A GARDEN, I WANT TO INSTIL GOOD GARDENING PRACTICE

SEDLESCOMBE SCHOOL SENSORY GARDEN

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Whats your role Kristina Clode.indd 125

that year-round interest. There needs to be a good balance between hard landscaping and planting. These low maintenance gardens often are just as much work as the wilder ones which are much better for the environment.

It’s not just about designing a garden, I want to instil good gardening practice. I tend to encourage people not to cut everything down in the autumn so that it can be a home for insects and hibernating wildlife, and so the birds can enjoy the seeds. I teach clients about mulching to reduce water loss, rain water harvesting, and to plant in the right areas so they don’t have to water excessively in the first place.

Any future plans?

I passed my first adjudication project with the Society of Garden Designers and I plan to submit more. I’d also really like to join the Association of Professional Landscapers.

It’s just finding the time to do it all.

There’s also a lot more research on the garden history side that I could explore and delve into. I would like to continue my research of Edwardian garden designer Harold Peto – the subject of my MA dissertation; he owned and created the gardens at Ilford Manor, who I am in touch with.

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 125

21/10/2020 16:38

SAVE THE DATE:

Friday 23 April 2021 East Wintergarden, Canary Wharf, London

Enter your company into the

Pro Landscaper business awards For more details contact Laura Harris:

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3 0 U N D E R 3 0 U P DAT E

©Kat Weatherill

RHS FLOWER SHOW TATTON PARK, 2019

PEOPLE

SOUTH AFRICAN INSPIRED CORNER

CHARLIE HARTIGAN

A

Blue Peter badge at the age of nine after entering a garden design competition might have been the clue as to the career Charlie Hartigan would choose. Having said that, she did her best to avoid it initially. She’d grown up in a horticultural family, with her parents owning a tree nursery and a landscaping company, but showed a talent for science and maths so went to the University of Nottingham to study medicine. “I ended up moving into biology, which I enjoyed, but it wasn’t people-focused, it was very molecular,” says Charlie. “So, I moved into landscape architecture.”

After gaining a first-class degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Gloucestershire, Charlie went on to complete a postgraduate diploma, and after four years of study she became a lecturer at the university.

But as the workload grew in the family businesses – Hardy Eucalyptus and Envisage Gardens – Charlie made the decision to utilise her skills as a landscape architect within these.

Fortunately, this has allowed Charlie to create designs for the type of gardens she has loved since she was a child. “Traditionally, Envisage Gardens has worked on rural gardens, so I spent

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30 Under 30 Charlie Hartigan.indd 127

a lot of time in these when I was younger and at National Trust properties, which probably shaped my interest. I also did a course with the University of Oxford in the History of the English Landscape, which really fuelled it. We get invited to do a lot of heritage landscapes, and it’s definitely the direction I want to move in.”

THE WORLD’S CHANGING AND HORTICULTURE NEEDS TO CHANGE WITH IT A project Charlie is most proud of is one she has been working on for the last two years. “The couple is really well travelled. When they retired, they bought a farm and converted part of it into a vineyard, which we helped to install. They wanted to plant a three-acre woodland, so we designed a mini Westonbirt-style arboretum for them. For the actual garden, they gave me an open brief of creating a garden which encompassed their travels, so I designed an ‘around the world’ garden’ which has a series of rooms. That’s been so much fun.”

On the nursery, Charlie has been helping out for a number of years and now jointly holds 23 RHS floral marquee medals including a Chelsea Gold with Hardy Eucalyptus (Grafton Nursery).

This put her in good stead for taking part in the RHS’ Young Designer of the Year competition at Tatton Park in 2019. Her garden, which sought to raise awareness of endometriosis, scooped a Silver-gilt medal and, more importantly for

©Kat Weatherill

CHARLIE HARTIGAN SHARES HOW SHE RETURNED TO HER HORTICULTURAL ROOTS AND WHY VIRTUAL SHOW TATTON PARK AT HOME IS A STEP FORWARD FOR THE RHS

RHS FLOWER SHOW TATTON PARK, 2019

Charlie, the People’s Choice Award. “This was more fulfilling than the medal in some respects because it meant the garden resonated with those viewing it, which meant a lot.”

Charlie has since taken part in Tatton Park at Home, a virtual version of the show after the RHS cancelled all of its physical shows this year, by talking about her ‘1 in 10’ garden last year for the RHS Podcast. “The virtual show was more accessible as visitors didn’t have to travel.

Many more people could experience it in their own time in the comfort of their own home.

[Lockdown has] forced almost everyone’s hand, not just the RHS but people who participate in

WINNING THE PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD AT RHS FLOWER SHOW TATTON PARK, 2019

the shows as well, to become more present online – the world’s changing and horticulture needs to change with it.”

Charlie now has her sights set on Chelsea, and with the passion and achievements she’s racked up so far, we’re likely to see her at the world renowned show soon.

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 127

19/10/2020 18:23

JOBS

For full details on all jobs, please go to www.horticulturecareers.co.uk Call 01903 777 570 or email phil.every@eljays44.com with your vacancy

FULL TIME GARDENER

ARBORIST CLIMBER

Ellon Castle Gardens is a registered Charitable Trust and company limited by guarantee working on behalf of the community of Ellon to restore, preserve and steward the castle gardens, adjacent woodland, parkland and castle ruins. It is looking for a full-time qualified gardener to manage the day-to-day practical maintenance of all horticultural aspects and tasks to develop, enhance and conserve the gardens and contribute to making it a significant tourist attraction and community resource. You will be expected to work to a high standard, be responsible for managing volunteers, work with the Board of Trustees, and be able to prioritise workloads.

Bartlett Tree Experts has opportunities for professional, self-motivated arborists for its office near Biggleswade, Bedfordshire. The role will involve working in a team undertaking a variety of tree work, including ground based chainsaw work, aerial tree surgery, pruning, identifying basic trees and shrubs, and plant healthcare services.

Applicants must have sound knowledge of health and safety, work to best industry practice, focus on providing a high level of customer service, and a desire to produce the highest possible standard of work. Applicants must have minimum of CS30, CS31, CS38 and CS39 (or equivalent) and a full driving licence (ideally C1+1).

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

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

ARBORIST CLIMBER

ARBORIST CLIMBER

Bartlett Tree Experts is an Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor, a CHAS accredited contractor and has ISA certified arborists. The company currently has job opportunities for professional arborists for its office near Hertfordshire. The role will involve working in a team undertaking a variety of tree work, including ground based chainsaw work, aerial tree surgery, pruning, identifying basic trees and shrubs and plant healthcare services. The company offers an excellent basic salary, dependent on qualifications and experience, as well as provision of all uniform, PPE and climbing kit. It also has a team building programme, EAP and a Cycle to Work scheme.

Bartlett Tree Experts has opportunities for professional arborists for its office near Knutsford, Cheshire. The role will involve working in a team, undertaking a variety of tree work, including ground based chainsaw work, aerial tree surgery, pruning, identifying basic trees and shrubs and plant healthcare services. Applicants must have sound knowledge of health and safety, work to best industry practice, focus on providing a high level of customer service, and have a desire to produce the highest possible standard of work. Applicants must have minimum of CS30, CS31, CS38 and CS39 (or equivalent) and a full driving licence (ideally C1+1).

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

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

ARBORIST CLIMBER

ARBORIST CLIMBER

Bartlett Tree Experts is an Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor, a CHAS accredited contractor and has ISA certified arborists. The company has exciting opportunities for professional, self-motivated, experienced arborists for its office near Sevenoaks, Kent. The role will involve working in a team, undertaking a variety of tree work including ground based chainsaw work, aerial tree surgery, pruning, identifying basic trees and shrubs and plant healthcare services. The company offers an excellent basic salary, dependent on qualifications and experience, as well as provision of all uniform, PPE and climbing kit. It also has an EAP and a Cycle to Work scheme.

Bartlett Tree Experts has opportunities for professional arborists for its office near Marlow, Berkshire. The role will involve working in a team, undertaking a variety of tree work, including ground based chainsaw work, aerial tree surgery, pruning, identifying basic trees and shrubs, and plant healthcare services. Applicants must have sound knowledge of health and safety, work to best industry practice, focus on providing a high level of customer service, and have a desire to produce the highest possible standard of work. Applicants must have minimum of CS30, CS31, CS38 and CS39 (or equivalent) and a full driving licence (ideally C1+1).

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

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

ARBORIST

SKILLED LANDSCAPER

Bartlett Tree Experts is an Arboricultural Association Approved Contractor, a CHAS accredited contractor and has ISA certified arborists. It has exciting opportunities for professional, self-motivated, experienced arborists for its office near Guildford.

The role will involve working in a team undertaking a variety of tree work, including ground based chainsaw work, aerial tree surgery, pruning, identifying basic trees and shrubs and plant healthcare services. The company offers an excellent basic salary, dependent on qualifications and experience, as well as provision of all uniform, PPE and climbing kit. It also has an EAP and a Cycle to Work scheme.

Landesigns has been trading for 17 years and prides itself on its customer service, the quality of its work and attention to detail. It is seeking a committed, skilled landscaper to join its team in Hertfordshire. The candidate must have at least two years of landscaping experience, as well as enthusiasm and commitment to the job.

Attention to detail is imperative, as well as the ability to read and work off scaled plans.

The candidate should have a good understanding of hard landscaping tasks, the ability to drive diggers, dumpers, and competently use equipment. They should also have an understanding of health and safety, a CSCS card, and a UK driving licence.

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

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

ELLON CASTLE GARDENS Location: Scotland

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Location: Hertfordshire

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Location: Kent

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Location: Surrey

128 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

Hort Careers.indd 128

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Location: Bedfordshire

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Location: Cheshire

BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS Location: Buckinghamshire

LANDESIGNS Location: Hertfordshire

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/10/2020 17:20

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22/10/2020 16:53

PEOPLE

T H E L I T T L E I N T E RV I E W

PRO LANDSCAPER ASKS QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS TO GAIN A SMALL INSIGHT INTO THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE UP OUR INDUSTRY. TO TAKE PART, EMAIL CONTENT@ EL JAYS44.COM

130 Pro Landscaper / November 2020

Little Interviews-2.indd 130

JANE HARRIES

JACOB BOTTING

Owner/designer, Jane Harries Garden Designs

Owner, Garden Elements

www.janeharriesgardens.co.uk

www.garden-elements.co.uk

If you weren’t in the horticulture industry, what would you be doing?

I was doing customer management and marketing consultancy before I changed direction. I’d also like to be a journalist and artist.

If you weren’t in the horticulture industry, what would you be doing?

Graphic designer/unemployed!

Other than the UK, which country’s landscape inspires you the most?

The USA – I lived there when I was a child and had wonderful camping trips round the National Parks.

The one person in the industry you’d love to meet?

Hard to pin it down to one – Dan Pearson would be interesting for his work in Japan.

Anna Pavord, I liked reading her column.

One thing that you think would make the industry better?

A guide as to how we become more sustainable and eco-friendly. I can’t get my head around it apart from different coloured pots and wildlife gardens.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

One of the dames – Maggie Smith or Vanessa Redgrave – to be played as a Martha Gellhorn type of person.

What three things would you take to a desert island?

Painting gear, big book to read and a survival kit.

Your favourite joke?

What’s grey with a trunk?

A mouse going on holiday.

What’s brown with a trunk?

A mouse coming back.

Other than the UK, which country’s landscape inspires you the most?

Finland.

What would you blow your budget on?

Fried chicken and beer.

The one person in the industry you’d love to meet?

Piet Oudolf.

One thing that you think would make the industry better?

Cheaper products or less tax.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley).

What three things would you take to a desert island?

Fire maker, mattock, beautiful women/my girlfriend (just in case she reads this).

Your favourite joke?

‘A man walks into a bar’.

What did he say?

Karaoke song of choice?

Tiny Dancer by Elton John.

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

22/10/2020 08:56

PEOPLE

D R G LY N N P E R C I VA L

D O M I N I C H AY WA R D

FA I T H R A M SAY

Head of research, Bartlett Tree Experts

Contracts manager, The London Lawn Turf Company

Director, My Country Garden Design Solutions

www.bartlett.com

www.londonlawnturf.co.uk

www.mycountrygarden.co.uk

If you weren’t in the horticulture industry, what would you be doing?

I’d be a plumber. Nearly trained as one!

If you weren’t in the horticulture industry, what would you be doing?

I enjoy being active and spending time outdoors in nature, so something enabling me to do that.

If you weren’t in the horticulture industry, what would you be doing?

Probably still back in the banking industry earning a lot more money but not being half as happy.

Other than the UK, which country’s landscape inspires you the most?

After years of holidaying throughout the country, the incredibly varied landscape of France still blows me away.

Other than the UK, which country’s landscape inspires you the most?

New Zealand, the variation of climate zones and landscape is simply breathtaking.

What would you blow your budget on?

Investing in competent landscapers always pays huge dividends and reduces headaches!

What would you blow your budget on?

Travelling – memories last a lifetime.

Other than the UK, which country’s landscape inspires you the most?

British Columbia.

The one person in the industry you’d love to meet?

Met him. Professor Richard Harris.

One thing that you think would make the industry better?

Less scepticism to new ideas/technologies.

Best piece of trivia you know?

I once won a competition when asked: ‘How many chickens are there in the world?’

I said 20.5 billion – it was 20.88 billion.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

Steve Buscemi or Homer Simpson.

What three things would you take to a desert island?

MP3 player, insect repellent and a lifelong supply of Curly Wurlys, Your favourite joke?

Man walks into the car rental agency and says to the lady across the counter: “I’m returning my rental car but I have some good news and bad news.” The lady replies: “Well, I’ve had a horrible day, so I don’t want to hear any bad news.

What’s the good news”? The man replies: “Your air bags work”.

Karaoke song of choice?

Paradise City by Guns N’ Roses

www.prolandscapermagazine.com

Little Interviews-2.indd 131

The one person in the industry you’d love to meet?

I live quite close to Claremont House and am always in awe of the beautiful gardens there, designed by the great Capability Brown, the only problem being the 250 years between us.

Best piece of trivia you know?

Elephants are the only animal that can’t jump.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

Dolph Lundgren.

What three things would you take to a desert island?

Kindle, guitar, running shoes.

Your favourite joke?

“The advantages of easy origami are two-fold” – Tim Vine.

Karaoke song of choice?

American Pie by Don McLean.

The one person in the industry you’d love to meet?

Roy Lancaster, his breadth of knowledge on ongoing enthusiasm is inspiring.

One thing that you think would make the industry better?

Greater understanding by the public about how much gardens actually cost.

Best piece of trivia you know?

Two of Henry VIII’s wives were cousins and they both ended up being beheaded.

Who would play you in a movie of your life?

Kate Winslet, she’s a Reading girl too!

What three things would you take to a desert island?

Suncream, books and some strawberry plants.

Your favourite joke?

What do you call a deer with no eyes?

No eye-dear. (Sorry, I have young kids and this is their favourite joke!)

Pro Landscaper / November 2020 131

22/10/2020 08:57

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21/10/2020 19:01