Groundskeeping Journal - Issue 6 2021

VO L . 0 6 | J U NE /J U LY 2 0 21

BIGGA

REESINK

SUSTANE

First batch of Master Greenkeepers since 2019 announced

Range of lithium-powered utility vehicles from STAR EV lands in UK

An organic approach to turf nutrition

UNBEATABLE QUALITY. UNRIVALLED VERSATILITY. Ideal for large areas where lightweight machinery is required to minimise turf damage but high horse power and exceptional lift capacity for its size cannot be compromised, the TH Range of ISEKI compact tractors is equipped with a Stage V compliant powerful 35hp or 40hp 3-cylinder turbo diesel engine and 3-speed hydrostatic transmission for ease of use whilst manoeuvring. With a 1200kg lift capacity at the ball end the TH range can operate a wide range of implements with ease. The 2 speed rear PTO with 2 mode engagement and auto stop function plus mid PTO to suit a variety of implements. For the ultimate comfort an air conditioned cab is available as an option. Other additional extras include front loader and mid-mount deck for the ultimate versatility.

Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your site today!

Designed & Engineered in Japan www.iseki.co.uk

CONTENTS

In this issue Welcome to Groundskeeping Journal, the UK’s latest bi-monthly publication providing latest product innovations, industry news and opinions from key professionals within the industry.

With focuses on Aeration, Irrigation & Drainage; Greenskeeping; Latest News; Machinery; Pitch & Line Marking; Specialist Mowers; Sports Ground Equipment; Sports Pitches; Top Dressing; Sprayers & Spraying and Turf Management.

44

Foamstream Weedingtech’s Foamstream system is helping street and public open spaces cleansing in Cornwall with two Foamstream M1200 systems now being operated in the county.

12

34 Ariens has the EDGE in zero-turns The introduction of the EDGE zero-turn mower from Ariens is a landmark in domestic lawn mowing.

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

Iseki With over 280 years of history and curated by design greats such as ‘Old’ Tom Morris, Willie Park Jnr and James Braid, The Royal Burgess Golfing Society of Edinburgh continues to seek challenge and reward for its members.

3

UK manufacturers of the World's finest tennis nets and sports products since 1884 Buy online @ www.edwardssports.co.uk Telephone 01308 424111 • sales@edsports.co.uk

CONTACT US

Contact Us Enhancing Quality Sports Services ello and welcome to Groundskeeping Journal.

Our publication has been created to showcase the very latest industry news and product information from the Groundskeeping sector.

H

In each edition we carry in depth articles from some of the industry leaders, the articles cover many aspects of Groundskeeping with some offering tips and advice on Sports Pitches, Turf Management, Greens Keeping and much, much more. Whether you are looking for tips and advice on creating the perfect green or looking to source

the right product for your synthetic surface GKJ has it all.

Our vision is to connect our readers with professionals and suppliers working within their sector and we hope that we have created a platform that will become a must have tool for anyone working within the industry.

Many thanks for taking the time to read our publication, we hope you enjoy the read and if you would like to keep up to date with all things GKJ then make sure you check out our subscribe page.

Follow us on our Social Media

@gkj_mag

Contact the Groundskeeping Journal team below: Editor-In-Chief

Business Manager

Antony Holter editor@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Josh Holmes josh@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Editor

Studio Designer

Emma Page emma@groundskeepingjournal.co.uk 01304 806039

Publishing Director

Martin Holmes martin@mhmagazine.co.uk 01304 806039

Sales Director

Lee Martin lee@groundskeepingjournal.co.uk 01227 936974

Richard Bland richard@mhmagazine.co.uk

Digital Manager

Jamie Bullock jamie@mhmagazine.co.uk 01227 936971

Accounts Department

Alison Holmes accounts@mhmediaglobal.com 01227 936971

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of material published in Groundskeeping Journal however, the publishers accept no responsibility for the claims or opinions made by advertisers, manufacturers or contributors. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic (including photocopying) or stored in any information retrieval system without the prior consent of the publisher.

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

5

LATEST NEWS

Master Greenkeepers BIGGA announces first batch of Master Greenkeepers since 2019 as five members attain the “grandest of achievements” for greenkeepers

T

he British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association is incredibly proud to reveal the identities of the latest members to achieve the Master Greenkeeper Certificate.

Joining some of the leading names within the turf management

6

industry from across the globe are five outstanding BIGGA members who have achieved what is widely perceived to be the highest recognition in greenkeeping.

For the first time since 2019, BIGGA is delighted to reveal the names of those who will be added to the roster of Master Greenkeepers, which began in 1991. They are:

81. Gregory Jones MG CGCS, 40, Golf Course Superintendent, Champions Run, Nebraska 82. Anthony Williams MG CGCS, 57, Director of Golf Course Operations, TPC Four Seasons Las Colinas, Texas 83. Matthew Aplin MG, 40, Course Manager, Goring & Streatley Golf Club, Berkshire 84. Alan FitzGerald MG, 45, Golf Course Superintendent, LedgeRock

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

LATEST NEWS

Matthew Aplin MG

Being Master Greenkeeper number 82 is a dream come true and I will work hard to be worth it each and every day. _ Anthony Williams MG CGCS

Anthony Williams MG CGCS

Golf Club, Pennsylvania 85. Greg Fitzmaurice MG, 42, Course Manager, Hunley Hotel & Golf Club, North Yorkshire The Master Greenkeeper Certificate is awarded to those members of BIGGA who have reached the highest standards of greenkeeping and golf course management. Examination is rigorous and candidates must

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

pass three stages to achieve the certificate, including an assessment of golf course operation and a case study and technical examination, on top of 10 years’ experience as a greenkeeper with at least three years spent in a course manager, head greenkeeper or superintendent position.

BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said:

“Congratulations to our latest batch of Master Greenkeepers, who join a prestigious list of some of the brightest and best names the industry has ever seen. Achieving the Master Greenkeeper Certificate is no mean feat and for a number of these candidates, the process has been long and has not been without setbacks. For those candidates, the courage and conviction to deal with the knock back and then return and achieve their goals is testament to the commitment and passion they’ve shown the profession throughout their careers and I’m delighted to welcome all five to the ranks of those we are proud to call Master Greenkeepers.”

Gregory Jones MG CGCS, golf course superintendent at Champions Run in Nebraska, said: “When I saw a phone call from the UK on my cell phone, I almost didn’t want to answer it.

7

LATEST NEWS

Greg Fitzmaurice MG After failing the written exam before, I wasn’t prepared for another let down, but I gathered up the courage and answered it anyway. Receiving the news that I had passed was a feeling like none other! I was in the middle of spraying greens and I think I scared a couple of folks having coffee on their decks when I did a couple of fist pumps!”

Anthony Williams MG CGCS, director of golf course operations at TPC Four Seasons Las Colinas, said: “To become a Master Greenkeeper is the grandest of achievements for a greenkeeper. I thought, how

Gregory Jones MG CGCS can I say I have served my club at the highest level and not be a Master Greenkeeper? Being Master Greenkeeper number 82 is a dream come true and I will work hard to be worth it each and every day.”

Matthew Aplin MG, course manager at Goring & Streatley Golf Club, said: “It means the world to me to become a Master Greenkeeper. Once I attended the Master Greenkeeper workshop at BTME three years ago, I realised how much I wanted to challenge myself and my team, to see how far we could go. To pass the course assessment at Goring & Streatley was great and

Alan FitzGerald MG

a reflection of what a great team I have the privilege to work with.”

Alan FitzGerald MG, golf course superintendent at LedgeRock Golf Club, said: “I cannot remember the last time that I was as excited as I was when I got word that I had become Master Greenkeeper number 84. The standards to become one are extremely high, which is shown by how few have gained the distinction over the last 30 years.

Becoming a Master Greenkeeper is the accumulation of everything I have done over my career, which is why I am extremely excited and honoured to be a member of this select club.”

Greg Fitzmaurice MG, course manager at Hunley Hotel & Golf Club, said: “I have always looked at ways to improve, in order to be the best that I can be.

Attaining the Master Greenkeeper Certificate has been another way of doing this and the process has been very challenging, motivating, rewarding and enjoyable. I have not only been able to improve my own attributes, but also improve the facilities at Hunley along the way.”

To find out more about the Master Greenkeeper Certificate and to get involved, head to the BIGGA website. www.bigga.org.uk

8

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

LATEST NEWS

The Redexim Top-Brush

T

he reduction in availability of curative chemistry has been a game-changer when it comes to the fight against worm casts. Recognising that cultural methods are going to become perhaps the only way to manage them, Newark Golf Club are the latest in a growing list to add the 6m-wide Redexim Top-Brush to their armoury.

For Course Manager Alex Clarricoates, its effectiveness at removing casts, as well as improving course presentation, made the purchase a no-brainer.

“Having gone through the autumn and winter struggling with casts on our fairways and surrounds, as soon as I saw the Top-Brush on social media I requested a demonstration” explains Alex, who has been at Newark for 12 years. “As well as the obvious issues with playability, from an agronomic

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

perspective, the increase in casts means that they often get trodden on and lay like that throughout the winter, resulting in us entering into the new season with bare patches.”

The large working with of the TopBrush means it can quickly and effectively rid large areas of not only worm casts, but also organic matter and dew. Its three brushes can rotate in or against the direction of travel and its working depth can be adjusted to achieve a light surface brush or more aggressive, deeper surface agitation.

“This versatility means that throughout the spring and summer we’ll be using the Top-Brush for clearing dew and removing lateral growth, and during periods of drought it will be a key tool to deliver that extra little bit of surface presentation on the fairways without needing to cut. Come the autumn, we envisage the Top-Brush will be in use

daily to clear any worm casts when they appear.”

On the day of the install by local dealer F.G. Adamson & Sons and Redexim Territory Manager Andy O’Neill, Alex also had a demonstration of the VertiDrain 7416 which was purchased on the spot! “The club have been making major investments over the last twelve months, in more manpower and new equipment to help us elevate the course to the next level. We had always previously outsourced the work but by having our own Verti-Drain, we can now relieve even more areas of compaction and at the time when ground conditions are absolutely spot on.”

Alex concludes, “With these two new tools at our disposal, we are in a fantastic place when it comes to course condition. It’s only upwards from here!” www.redexim.com

9

SPECIALIST MOWERS

ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE FROM THE ARIENS ZENITH E riens have introduced their first commercial, all-electric zero-turn mower for the UK market. The ZENITH E is powered by a FusionCore lithium-ion battery system, an exclusive technology developed by Ariens. It is designed to provide the operator with a continuous cutting time of up to 5.5 hours on a full charge, and coverage of up to 62,726 sq/m (15.5 acres).

four are at the same charge level, the machine will draw power from them equally, thus ensuring consistent power and cutting performance throughout.

Batteries can be charged in 12 hours with a standard charger or in just 5.3 hours using an optional quick charger.

A

The ZENITH E is built upon the fully commercial Ariens ‘ZENITH’ platform, well known for its strength, durability and cutting performance.

Combined with next-generation battery technology, the ZENITH E is a formidable competitor to conventional commercial petrol and diesel zero-turns.

The ZENITH E has all the power and performance of its petrol counterparts without the noise, vibration and exhaust. Coupled with the increased productivity of a zero-turn, it is perfect for commercial operators looking to 10

capitalise on the growing number of ‘green’ contracts. Fully electric, the ZENITH E’s FusionCore lithiumion 56v DC battery system has four interchangeable, easily removable, sealed for life batteries, each with a 4kWh capacity.

Where a mix of charge levels is detected in the four batteries, the patent-pending management system prioritises how the ZENITH E balances power. It will only draw from the full batteries until they reach the same level as those with less charge. Once all

There are two configurations for the 152cm (60”) deck: side discharge and rear discharge. Both are fabricated from highly durable, 10-gauge steel.

The ZENITH E boasts 15 cutting positions, easily selected with a vertical pin drop and foot-operated deck lift system. The high-back, full suspension seat with padded armrests offers allday operator comfort.

A range of optional accessories is available. The ZENITH E comes with a 5-year/1500 hour warranty with no hour limit on the first two years and a 3-year warranty for the batteries.

For further information, please e-mail zenithe@ariensco.com , or visit ariens-uk.com

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

ALL-DAY operation*

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

11

SPECIALIST MOWERS

Ariens

has the EDGE in zero-turns

T

he introduction of the EDGE zero-turn mower from Ariens is a landmark in domestic lawn mowing.

Manufactured in their UK factory, it reflects the engineering excellence Ariens is known for, and there can be no doubt it looks set to surpass anything else in its class.

12

Zero-turn mowing in the UK has been steadily growing as the alternative to the conventional lawn tractor. Intuitive, easy-to-use controls coupled with total manoeuvrability mean zero-turns work at speed to outperform most lawn tractors, cutting grass in half the time. The EDGE offers all this and more.

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

SPECIALIST MOWERS

With a zero-turn, you are free to spend less time mowing and more time enjoying your garden. Driven and steered by the rear wheels via two independent transmissions, the easy control levers are all you need to drive, brake, steer and spin on the spot.

Zero-turn mowing is fast. You can whizz around at 6 mph, and at the end of the mowing row do a 180-degree turn, align the deck edge with the row you’ve just cut and keep on going. You have reduced the cutting time by 50% over mowing with a lawn tractor. No more turn, reverse, turn again and straighten out and no stopping.

Without a lot of forward and backward movement, the result is outstanding cut quality.

All zero-turns do this, but the EDGE brings a host of other benefits to the mowing experience. Ariens has built a tough, durable mower with a wide range of commercial style features at an affordable price. With its Ariens 635cc engine, the EDGE is powerful, but Ariens also build it for comfort. The plush, highback adjustable seat with natural airflow enhances operator comfort while keeping you cool. Stepping aboard is easier

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

compared to a lawn tractor. You just lift the handles and get seated. All the controls are positioned in ergonomic, easily accessible locations and mostly hand-operated, making this zero-turn simple to use and an effortless driving experience for everyone.

The EDGE comes in two versions: EDGE 34 with an 86cm (34”) cutter deck and the EDGE 42 with a 107cm (42”) deck.

The commercial-style, four-point deck hanging system enhances deck stability and robustness for a premium cut quality.

There is a foot-operated deck lift for simple changes of deck height. By pushing the pedal forward and using the lever you can select seven from cutting heights, from 3.8cm to 12.7cm (1.5” to 4.5”). The large 50.8cm (20”) high, 20.3cm (8”) wide rear tyres are gentle on turf, delivering excellent traction and absorbing shock on uneven ground to give a smoother, more comfortable ride.

The EDGE comes with a 2-year/150 hours warranty and a range of accessories is available.

For more information, visit your local dealer or go to www.ariens.com/en-gb

13

GOLF COURSES

Reesink e-Vehicles is bringing a range of 28 lithium and sealed batterypowered utility vehicles from STAR EV to the UK. This includes electric golf buggies and small, medium and large capacity electric UTVs and people carriers for up to 22 people.

REESINK’S RISING STAR Range of lithium-powered utility vehicles from STAR EV lands in UK

T

he award-winning turfcare machinery and equipment distributor Reesink UK has launched a new division dedicated solely to electric utility vehicles. Named Reesink e-Vehicles, it introduces to the UK another award-winning brand – STAR EV and its extensive and compelling range of lithium and sealed battery-powered utility vehicles.

Responding to market demands associated to environmental concerns spans all industries and is an area 14

Reesink was very much focussed on in 2020 with the launch of the Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 mower and the industry’s first all-electric compact tractor, the Farmtrac FT25G. David Cole, managing director of Reesink UK, says: “We’re focused on introducing battery-powered machinery options to the UK turfcare market. Such products have been extremely well-received and this is the direction of travel for environmentally friendly technology at the moment, one we recognise will only gain more traction.

“The globe is focussed on reducing fuel consumption and heading towards electric transportation as the next transitional step. There simply has to be the choice to buy electric and we identified a gap in our offering for a comprehensive range of electric utility vehicles to complement the Toro Workman GTXe we have just rolled out here in the UK.” Perfect for golf clubs, sports stadiums and training grounds, leisure resorts and landscapers, the STAR EV range of 28 lithium and sealed battery-powered utility vehicles includes golf buggies

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

GOLF COURSES

“ The globe is focussed on reducing fuel consumption and heading towards electric transportation as the next transitional step and small, medium and large capacity electric UTVs for carrying materials, and people carriers for 4–22 people.

David continues: “Wherever you are and whatever sector you’re in, the ability to work more quietly, earlier and for longer will be an advantage. Specifically, golf course and golf resorts with guest rooms or neighbouring residential areas or urban sports stadiums and training grounds will notice a big difference by switching to electric power.

“This has a direct advantage to sales and customer service, for example, the addition of this range means that through Reesink, not only can cutting start earlier to bring forward tee times with no dispute from neighbours, but other maintenance operations requiring transport of staff or materials can get around the course earlier too.”

When it came to finding a partner who could deliver the electric solution Reesink was looking for, it was a conversation with STAR EV at BTME in 2020 that lead the company to where it is today.

David continues: “I first came into contact with STAR EV at BTME and our discussions continued from there.

It didn’t take long for it to become transparent that the brand delivered everything we were looking for. It’s a brand that delivers strong technology, innovation, breadth of range, value proposition and importantly - peak performance.

“Specifically though, we were looking for an electric range with rapid charge, a good mileage per charge, an extensive warranty – up to six years on batteries – along with the usual no more emissions

and no more pollution stance. It’s no surprise that STAR EV is an awardwinning company in the USA and we’re excited to partner with them.”

Jane Zhang, CEO and owner of STAR EV Corporation, says: “STAR EV Corporation is delighted to be partnering with Reesink, under their new EV division, with an exclusive agreement for the UK and Ireland.

Reesink has many strong and proven business relationships across a wide variety of sectors and the company’s history and knowledge of turf and recreational outdoor products makes them the perfect partner to represent STAR. STAR looks forward to Reesink delivering to its customer base a fantastic range of ever evolving, and world-renowned electrical vehicles, growing both our brands.”

Electric-powered technology is a fundamental part of the transport and equipment future. Already growing rapidly, with customers keen to switch, the market will want choice, and that’s exactly what Reesink e-Vehicles plans to deliver. There will be a new team developed around the new division, plus a new website and branding, but for now further information can be requested by contacting Reesink e-Vehicles on 01480 226800 or via your usual Reesink contact with demonstrations available now. www.reesinkturfcare.co.uk

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

15

GOLF COURSES

LATEST TORO INNOVATION FOR ROYAL NORWICH oyal Norwich continues to invest in the latest innovation from Toro.

The club in Norfolk has taken advantage of the electric power revolution Toro spearheads with the delivery of an electric Workman GTX-e utility vehicle, alongside the latest pedestrian mower, Toro’s Greensmaster 1026 and is the first club in the country to order Toro’s new NozzAlert Flow Monitoring System with MultiPro 5800 sprayer.

R

It would have been hard to miss Toro’s meteoric rise in bringing electric and hybrid power to the turfcare market. Off the back of last years’ launch of the first allelectric riding greens mower, the Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370, it’s good to revisit the machine that in a way started it all; the Workman GTX-e utility vehicle, one of the brand’s first triumphs in the electric power arena.

The Workman GTX electric features a 48-volt brushless AC induction drive along with an easily accessible on-board charger, about which estate manager and director at Royal Norwich Peter Todd says: “Toro led the way with the inception of electric power and continues to do so; it’s hard to believe they are still the only brand with a lithium battery electric utility vehicle! By simply removing the lead acid diesel battery in the GTX-e Workman, Toro made this machine much lighter, it’s the equivalent I’d guess of removing a passenger! When running it over fine turf, that’s an important consideration. The battery is sealed for life, there’s less maintenance and performance is better.”

16

Royal Norwich is the first club in the country to benefit from even more precise spraying. The efficient flow of spray the new NozzAlert provides when installed on Toro’s Multi Pro sprayers is essential for reducing waste and ensuring application efficacy and ideal spraying conditions.

Peter says: “Royal Norwich has been a Toro customer for many years and the reason being is that it has constantly and consistently delivered the quality we need and the innovation we’re after to continually improve the course.”

“I saw the NozzAlert when it launched at the GIS show last year and talked through the new technology with the design engineers on stand.

They explained how operators no longer have to judge spray flow based on visibility when using this new bit of kit; instead, NozzAlert delivers continuous monitoring of the entire spray boom and provides both visual and audible alerts if there are any flow disparities. To be told immediately when there’s a blocked nozzle rather than having to wait until your return trip down the

fairway appealed then and there!

The Greensmaster 1026 pedestrian mower is part of Toro’s redesigned classic Greensmaster 1000 series and is new from the tip of its handle to its driveline and chassis. All that remains the same are the patented DPA cutting units, but even that has a modular build to allow the driveline and chassis to be removable for eased servicing.

The reason for this choice was, says Peter for more efficient cutting of the rectangular tee boxes: “Previously we were using a ride-on for cutting the corners and it was a faff and taking too much time,” he says. “We already use the Flex 2120 on the greens and everyone finds it really easy to use and love the telescoping loop handle. The telescoping handle on both makes light work of adjusting for operator heights and handling more user friendly with the loop shape. It’s easy to see more engineering has been brought in with the redesign.”

To talk to someone about Toro technology and how the Toro range would suit your course, call 01480 226800.

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

GOLF COURSES

Bulk material specialists Operating since 1998, Whitemoss and the owners have always been known as Bulk material specialists. The 3 Directors have over 100 years combined experience of Sands, Soils and Rootzones alongside a wealth of knowledge of aggregates for drainage and construction. Over the last 12 years, the business has developed to become Specialists in Ground Protection materials and in particular a Leading Supplier of Golf Bunker Liner solutions.

GC, Saffron Walden GC, Stratford on Avon GC, Mid Herts GC, Cirencester, 4 courses in Czech Republic, and several other European venues. There have been a lot more projects so excuse us if we missed you!

Whitemoss are Exclusive distributors of the BunkerMat liner manufactured in Australia.

They have exclusivity to supply UK, Europe, North America and Canada and also recently appointed a licenced agent in South Africa.

This autumn sees the company commencing works at Ingestre Park working with MJ Abbott and International Design Group. BunkerMat selected as the bunker liner and BU435 sand as bunker sand.

BunkerMat is installed at 3 courses in Holland, 1 in Belgium and 1 in Germany, all 5 of which were recently voted at the Top of the @leadingcourses (Twitter) annual review. Royal Hague (KHGCC) voted no.1.

Whitemoss are also about to sign contracts with a large andy@whitemosseco.org.uk European company who will stock, distribute and install www.CompleteBunkerSolutions.com BunkerMat throughout Central Europe under licence.

BunkerMat has a 20 year warranty, BunkerBase a 10year warranty and both over 100 year in ground life expectancy.

Since October 2019, projects have been started and some completed at Celtic Manor, Chelmsford Golf Club, Gog Magog

If you need free advice, a site visit or even just a sample, please call them on 01260 299920.

20 Y ear Pro duc t Wa rran ty

COMPLETE BUNKER SOLUTIONS Bunkermat exclusively available throughout Europe, USA and Canada from Whitemoss Eco. Visit our website and view our wide range of products Including:

BunkerMat - BunkerBase - PermEBunker - BunkerEdge - MegaFlo. ProAngle Bunker Sands: BU435 - ChinaClaySand - Scottish White Sand.

T: 01260 299920

E: ANDY@WHITEMOSSECO.ORG.UK

www.CompleteBunkerSolutions.com GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

17

TURF MANAGEMENT

The dream machinery team at Thorpe Hall golf club

T

horpe Hall Golf Club has seen for itself the benefits not one, but two Reesink Turfcare brands can bring to a

course after investing in both Toro and Nordic Plow.

With a hectare of greens and a course stretching 90 acres in total, it’s no easy feat to keep up excellent turf maintenance at Thorpe Hall Golf Club.

And no one knows that better than course manager Chris Wright, who’s been at the club for nearly 19 years.

“I’ve been course manager since 2013 and before that I was deputy course manager, so I definitely know the course and the best ways to maintain it,” explains Chris.

“Which is why in 2018 we signed our first Toro lease deal. Not only did signing a lease deal bring with it financial benefits, but Toro machinery is built to last.”

18

With a comprehensive Toro fleet that includes the Reelmaster 3575-D fairway mower, Greensmaster TriFlex Hybrid 3420, Greensmaster TriFlex 3400, Groundsmaster 3500-D Sidewinder, Groundsmaster 4500-D and a Multipro 5800 sprayer, the only thing missing was an efficient and reliable aerator, but it didn’t take Chris long to add that to the shed.

“We decided to go with the Toro ProCore 648 to replace our old aerator in 2019, as well as Core Solutions, the Nordic Plow core collector attachment,” says Chris.

“The ProCore is without a doubt the best pedestrian aerator on the market, it contours incredibly well and with three-wheel drive it’s proved to be more versatile.”

“The Core Solutions core collector was an improvement on our previous attachment, which would always leave us needing to clean up after it. It’s also

great value for money and works really well with the ProCore on the greens.”

Designed for both golf courses and sports surfaces, the core collecting blade attachment from Nordic Plow fits perfectly onto all brands and models of aeration equipment and bunker rakes, providing an efficient and cost-effective way to remove cores from a playing surface in minutes.

“We’re always making small improvements where we can to the course with our ongoing maintenance,” concludes Chris. “The Toro ProCore and Nordic Plow Core Solutions combined have helped hugely with course maintenance and saved a lot of time, and overall our new machinery lease with Reesink has proved to be a big success.”

To find out more about the Toro range or the machinery attachments available from Reesink, call 01480 226800, email info@reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk.

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

Aspen Alkylate petrol Y

ou may think that if you’re operating petrol-powered equipment, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces, that exposure to harmful hydrocarbons is largely unavoidable. Benzene is just one of the many hydrocarbons found in conventional pump fuel and exhaust emissions, often considered the substance most dangerous to human health. However, there is an alternative in the form of Aspen Alkylate petrol – switching to which can reduce benzene emissions by up to 108 times!

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) regulations advise against benzene exposure completely, but where this cannot be reasonably achieved, there are steps that can be taken to adequately control exposure as far as is reasonably practicable - and certainly below the workplace exposure limit (WEL) assigned for benzene of part per million (ppm) of air averaged over an 8-hour period. One way of doing this could be switching from traditional pump fuel to Aspen.

An Alkylate petrol, Aspen is made using only the cleanest Alkylate components that occur when oil is refined.

This process involves combining excess gases from the distillation of crude oil and from the cracking plant, resulting in a liquid alkylate. Once some additional components are mixed in, the result is a finished fuel which is significantly purer than traditional petrol, with content of harmful aromatic hydrocarbons such as benzene and polyaromatics (PAH) close to zero.

Being virtually free from benzene, as well as sulphur and many other harmful substances, using Aspen Alkylate petrol improves the health and performance of your equipment, the working conditions for the operator and significantly reduces the harmful impact your machinery makes on the environment. Aspen is also ethanol-free, which improves reliability, maintains engine performance and preserves the life of component parts which can be susceptible to failure when running on conventional pump fuel, especially if it has been left for any extended period of time in storage.

Aspen is available in a range of unit sizes (5L, 25L, 60L and 200L) and in both pre-mixed 2-stroke and 4-stroke varieties. www.aspenfuel.co.uk

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

19

TURF MANAGEMENT

NUFARM & AGRIGEM PARTNER UP TO LAUNCH PLAZMA TURF FUNGICIDE lobal crop protection manufacturer Nufarm has teamed up with Agrigem, the amenity and sports turf products specialist, to deliver Plazma, a brand new systemic fungicide, carefully crafted for sports surface disease management. The joint venture will see Plazma benefitting from Nufarm’s one hundred years as a leading manufacturer combined with Agrigem’s dedicated workforce of technical experts and distribution network.

G

Agrigem and Nufarm have identified a gap in the market for a highly effective, broad spectrum fungicide. Available in one litre bottles, the industry leading 250g per litre concentration of Azoxystrobin means the active ingredient is delivered quicker, acts faster and has a higher protectant action than other broad spectrum fungicides.

It has long been known that Azoxystrobin targets diseases such as Fusarium Patch, Take‐All Patch, Brown Patch, Leaf Spot, Rust Diseases, Fairy Rings & Anthracnose. Plazma, with a high concentration of Azoxystrobin has shown to have a particular effectiveness against Dollar Spot and works even 20

in high humidity conditions such as stadiums. The active ingredient travels through the plant, inhibiting fungal respiration and prevents disease by systemic, translaminar and protectant activity.

Available in cost effective 1 litre bottles, Plazma is set to be a game changer in the world of sports

has already seen excellent uptake within the sports and amenity turf management industry. As the exclusive supplier, Agrigem has a wealth of technical knowledge as well as experts throughout the country who can advise and visit your ground to ensure you are getting the results you need from your products.

turf management. Areas such as golf, bowling greens, sports pitches and tennis courts that suffer from unsightly turf diseases can be targeted to ensure your turf is always looking its best.

Whilst only currently available in the UK, there are plans to launch in Ireland later this year. In the meantime Plazma is in stock for next day delivery, online or through your Agrigem account manager.

Launched in the UK on June 1st 2021, Plazma is available to buy now and

www.plazmaturf.com 01522 246491 GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

AV NO AI W LA BL E PLAZMA TURF DISEASE CONTROL

PLAZMA is a powerful, high performance, broad spectrum fungicide for the control of disease in managed amenity turf.

It contains 250g per litre of the active ingredient Azoxystrobin, making it one of the strongest, broad spectrum professional turf fungicide on the market.

Azoxystrobin is known to target a wide variety of turf diseases including Fusarium Patch, Take-All Patch, Brown Patch, Leaf Sport, Rust Diseases, Fairy Rings and Anthracnose.

Key Features Easy to use Plazma Formulation; can be used in boom sprayer or knapsack Ideal in High Humidity conditions Fast Acting & Long Lasting with Rainfast Properties.

1L Convenient Pack size 250g per litre Azoxystrobin Manufactured by Nufarm, a leading manufacturer of crop protection products for the last 100 years.

www.plazmaturf.com T 01522 246491 MAPP No. 1941 • Use plant protection products safely • Always read the label and product information before use • PLAZMA is a registered trademark of Nufarm UK Ltd.

TURF MANAGEMENT

Offering you the ultimate package for Artificial Sports Turf Maintenance From renovation and maintenance to the assistance of dirt removal, GKB Machines are able to offer you a fleet of trustworthy machines to help you meet your artificial sports turf maintenance goals.

Do you experience problems with a compacted turf pitch?

With the GKB Renovator you are in possession of a robust and reliable synthetic turf maintenance machine. With five rotating brushes forming the foundation of the machine, every inch of your synthetic pitch will be covered. The circular oscillating movement of the spring tines removes unwanted material from around the plastic fibres and in turn improves the effectiveness of your pitch.

Looking for the ultimate solution for your daily brushing work?

Allowing you to carry out of correct synthetic turf maintenance, no matter the requirements, the GKB Quick-Brush provides all your needs for regular brushing work. Included are a spring tine rake bar, two brushes and rubber finishing mat, this machine gives you the ability to adjust the height of the modular brush to suit each specific task.

Remove dirt rapidly from artificial sports fields.

A full mechanic, self-driven machine that removes all kind of dirt from the top of a synthetic pitch, you need the GKB Top-Clean? This machine can easily be connected to almost every tractor by using a standard three-point hitch or electric drawbar. Using a high driving speed (around 10 km/h) the result is a perfect looking artificial pitch that you can be proud of! www.gkbmachines.com

Gkb machines, taking our kn machines, taking our knowledge knowledge of to to supply the best possible machine Gkb machines, taking ourof knowledge of contracting to supply the possible best possible machine solution. Be it a natural, sy GkbGkb machines, taking our ofcontracting contracting supply the best machine Gkb Gkb machines, machines, taking taking our our knowledge knowledge of contracting contracting to to supply supply the the best best possible possible machine machine Gkb machines, oursynthetic knowledge of contracting toa supply the best possible machine solution.

Be ataking natural, or wepitch.. have machine to suit your needs. solution. itsynthetic a natural, synthetic orpitch.. hybrid we asuit machine to suitneeds. your needs. solution.

Be ititaBe natural, synthetic orhybrid hybrid pitch.. we have ahave machine toyour suit your solution. solution.

Be Be it it a a natural, natural, synthetic or or hybrid hybrid pitch.. pitch.. we we have have a a machine machine to to suit your needs. needs. www.gkbmachin solution. Be it a natural, synthetic or hybrid pitch... we have a machine to suit your needs. www.gkbmachines.com // tom@gkbmachines.com / 07495 88/ 36 17 88 36 17 www.gkbmachines.com / tom@gkbmachines.com www.gkbmachines.com tom@gkbmachines.com / 07495 88 www.gkbmachines.com www.gkbmachines.com // tom@gkbmachines.com tom@gkbmachines.com // 07495 07495 88 88 36 36 07495 17 17 36 17 www.gkbmachines.com / tom@gkbmachines.com / 07495 88 36 17

GKB_GKJ_SYN_Mar_2021.indd 1

22

25/05/2021 12:22

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

TURF MANAGEMENT

Tackling the issue of water management

W

ith the Jacobean-style mansion providing the backdrop to some of the courses 18 parkland holes, Warwickshire’s Welcombe Golf Club delivers undulations which are a challenge to player and greenkeeper alike. In charge of the maintenance is Golf Course & Estates Manager Richard Sheldon who, with a rather aged fleet of equipment at his disposal, has turned to a combination of TriCure AD™ and Terafirm™ from Headland Amenity to tackle the issue of water management.

Richard’s first task when he joined the club in January 2020 was to assess his inherited fleet of machinery and spotted the notable absence of a deep aerator. “Our greens are constructed using rootzone and have the ability to drain well but due to the lack of deep aeration we were getting very shallow rooting caused by a pan layer, which also affected the distribution of moisture through the profile” explains Richard, who is assisted by a team of three. In addition, when Richard decided to fire up the club’s irrigation system during the first national lockdown, he found that around 90% of the tee sprinklers were broken! Thankfully, his knowledge and experience of Headland’s TriCure AD™ saved the day.

“It was a really hot period and we were seeing a loss of coverage on both the greens and the tees very quickly. We began using TriCure AD™ on the greens, which helped to retain any moisture near the surface, and in turn the roots, but this also penetrated through the pan layer and in just twelve months, the pan effect has gone. Our recent soil samples showed new deeper rooting through the profile. We also used

TriCure AD™ on the tees and, alongside getting the sprinklers replaced, this undoubtedly saved the tees.”

TriCure AD™ multi-molecular soil surfactant improves soil surface dry-down and prevents hydrophobic conditions. Its three different active surfactant chemistries mean that it can treat all types of rootzone particles and can be applied at much lower rates (like for like) than competitor surfactants. “We are now applying TriCure AD™ on a monthly basis throughout the summer, on all greens, tees and approaches. In the winter we switch over to monthly applications of Terafirm™ advanced soil penetrant which has been really impressive.”

“Because we try and keep inputs to a minimum as part of our organic matter control, you can just begin to tell when the Terafirm™ is reaching the end of its field longevity and then, after spraying, the difference is quickly noticeable - the greens are firm, dry and free-from puddling. We had some lovely feedback from local Course Managers on the condition of our greens, even following the heavy rainfall we saw in January of this year.”

Richard concludes, “I used Headland products at my previous club and have always been impressed with the results. This is the first time I’ve been responsible for pricing up supplies and, having seen that the Headland products were competitive, we have converted our entire nutritional programme over to Headland over the last 15 months with fantastic results course-wide.” www.headlandamenity.com

nowledge of contracting to supply the best possible machine ynthetic or hybrid pitch.. we have a machine to suit your needs.

nes.com / tom@gkbmachines.com / 07495 88 36 17

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

23

PITCH & LINE MARKERS

Top Marks at Hartpury he TinyLineMarker (TLM) Pro has proved to be a “big time saver” for the grounds team at the Gloucester based Hartpury University and Hartpury College, according to Grounds and Sports Maintenance Manager Matthew

T

24

Newman, who oversees the grounds maintenance of the facility’s multimillion-pound outdoor sports facilities.

Matthew manages three grounds care teams that work across the 360-hectacre, campus. “There’s

probably not a single day when a line marker is not being used by my team at the college,” Matthew explains. “We normally pitch prep on a Monday and Tuesday for university and college mid-week fixtures on a Wednesday, Gloucester Rugby trains on the same GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

PITCH & LINE MARKERS

Sports pitch being marked out with a TLM Pro

day, Thursday is a repair day and on Friday we prep for the weekend fixtures.

I was introduced to the TLM Pro when discussing these pitch line-marking time management issues with Rigby Taylor Technical Sales Manager, Simon Hughes and mentioned the fact that it normally took two members of staff one and a half hours to each mark a pitch, when Simon suggested I try the TLM Pro, which he said could help me free up the team members’ time to do other tasks.”

The demonstration included a thorough run through of the robot’s mechanical functions and GPS technology and then was set to work on one of Hartpury’s full-sized sports pitches, which was completed in just 20 minutes Matthew was so impressed a decision was made immediately to invest in the machine there and then, which has proved to be a massive time saver for the team. “Our sports pitches are adjacent to each other so we can now

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

“ I just shake the container, put it in the machine and off it goes. The lines stay on for much longer than other paints that can dull down after a couple of days of rain. Impact paint hasn’t done that - even in the winter months.

25

PITCH & LINE MARKERS

Hartpury University and Hartpury College complex cut and roll one pitch, put the TLM Pro on to mark and then cut and roll the adjacent pitch while it’s doing its job,” he says.

“We also can now plot our own pitches,” Matthew explains. “Over the close season I had to convert a rugby pitch to football, which previously would have meant taking out the posts to

re-measure. Now, using the supplied tablet and downloaded App. I just store the rugby pitch template and replace with a football pitch version. That means what would have taken me a day, now takes just 10 minutes!”

As regards the line-marking paint, Matthew always uses Rigby Taylor’s Impact paint with the TLM Pro. “I find

we now use much less paint than we did with a standard line-marking system,” he explains. “I just shake the container, put it in the machine and off it goes. The lines stay on for much longer than other paints that can dull down after a couple of days of rain. Impact paint hasn’t done that - even in the winter months.” www.rigbytaylor.com

TLM Pro - New grounds management team member

26

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

Pitch perfect lines in under 20 minutes.

Remarkable.

That’s setting up then initial marking all the lines of a standard size football pitch including corner angles, between the posts and even the penalty spot!

And all from just 3 litres of Impact paint and a click on the Samsung tablet.

The TinyLineMarker Sport is Rigby Taylor’s latest robot introduction for the autonomous line marking of sports pitches. Perfect for clubs and organisations that have single site use, or for sites with just a few pitches, it is a smart investment for training grounds, sports clubs, schools, district and borough councils.

Visit us at the Festival of Turf STAND 130

Intelligent by design

Using the latest, robotic technology and GPS/RTK connectivity, the TLM Sport delivers initial and over-marking to milimetre accuracy

Cost efficiency

Whilst the TLM Sport is marking, the operator is free to undertake other important tasks like mowing, aeration, spraying, spreading etc.

Perfect partners

Award winning Impact ready to use paint provides long-lasting, bright white lines lines.

No measuring, no mixing and no waste

Simple to operate

Finger-tip control using suppled tablet. Over 50 sports pitch templates Apps can be accessed and markings stored for future use

Quality and reliability

Small in size, big on quality.

Weighs just 25 kg, easy to transport, compact in size, simple to use and requires little maintenance

Eco-friendly and safe

Battery powered, low energy and water consumption and zero emissions. Intelligent ultrasonic sensors detects obstacles in its path

Robotic line marking available for 50+ sports Athletic Tracks American Football Group Baseball Group Cricket Discus Field Hockey Fistball Footbal Pitch Group Gaelic Sports Group Hammer Javelin

Lacrosse Group Netball Rounders Rugby League Rugby Union Stool Ball Tennis Plus Letters & Numbers Exhibitions & Events Frisbee Geometry Quidditch Parking

T H E P O W E R T O PA I N T

Rigby Taylor Limited Freephone 0800 424919 www.rigbytaylor.com sales@rigbytaylor.com

PITCH & LINE MARKERS

Line Marking Save time, money and resources with Intelligent One

P

rofessional grounds maintenance teams can save time, money and resources by using the Intelligent One (IO), the sports turf industries most advanced autonomous line marking robot.

Intelligent Marking will be exhibiting the industry leading Intelligent One (IO) robotic line marker on stand G085 at SALTEX 2019.

The IO is the leading robotic line marker in the industry for accuracy, labour saving and productivity. Intelligent Marking is the only company to provide a base station with their robot which 28

ensures a line accuracy of +/-1cm.

The IM robot will overmark lines with supreme precision and mark out new pitches with ease.

By utilising a high accuracy GPS system, the Intelligent One can be used anywhere with unprecedented reliability, while matching the marking speed of any robotic line marker available. It is not reliant on a cellular network as operated by other robots and so does not incur expensive annual contract charges.

The Intelligent One can mark an 11-a-side football pitch from scratch in just 20-25 minutes. The robot can also line for rugby, hockey, athletics

and any other chosen sport in a similar time. It will mark out a 400m running track in under two hours with numerous templates for other track and field events available.

Bespoke templates are simple to load and can be easily changed in seconds to suit your site. Once saved, it is then available at the touch of a button to be overmarked time and time again.

The robot is stable on every natural and artificial surface and can work continuously due to interchangeable batteries. The machine is economical to use, and the amount of paint can be controlled depending on the preferred nozzle size.

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

PITCH & LINE MARKERS

The IO can be used with most paints although IM recommend their own brand of paint; ProStripe, to deliver excellent professional standard lines, every time.

The IO comes with 45 pre-loaded templates including UEFA regulation football pitches, , track and field marking, rugby union and league, NFL pitches, lacrosse and customisable grids, shapes, and tracks. All coordinates are stored within the app so areas can be marked again at the touch of a button.

Contractors and can also request custom templates from Intelligent Marking which can be made within a short timeframe ready for use.

All templates are stored within the tablet – provided with purchase – that is used to manage the IO with a dedicated smart app which enables users to easily control all relevant parts of the automatic line marking process. It is completely up to the user if a whole pitch is marked or only certain areas.

This function gives the user complete control in using their time to the greatest effect.

Users of the machine will be able to manage their schedule in greater detail because the time it takes to mark the areas will already be known and will only require one person for the task.

The guaranteed cost saving the IO provides, makes consistent contracted line marking an attractive and costeffective prospect to establishments that may otherwise overlook it and can also deliver affordable investment for contractors.

MAKING ITS MARK AT FINBOROUGH SCHOOL The Intelligent One has a lot of strong product features but one of its greatest assets is timesaving for those who have a small number of staff for a large area.

Rory Ferguson, head groundsman at Finborough School in Suffolk has one

“ ProSportUK Ltd is the sole distributor for Intelligent Marking in the UK, headed

by Ian Robson and supported

by Alex Robinson who is the dedicated Product Specialist for the IO in the UK. full-size football pitch, two half size hockey pitches, five 7-a-side football pitches and two small sided rugby pitches to maintain by himself.

Ten of these pitches are in white and four in blue, with marking out all these areas taking over two days. Before using the Intelligent One, Rory was sceptical it would be able to find a signal deep in the Suffolk countryside.

Programming the robot to mark out his non-regulation size pitches was also a potential concern, but all his worries have been put to one side.

“Before seeing the IM Robot in action, I was sceptical about how it would perform because I’ve had other line markers that used similar technology struggle in this setting because of the signal quality we have here,” he said.

“Having now had the system explained to me and how it uses the base station to eliminate any dead spots I feel very confident in its capability and this proved the case as during the demonstration, there were no issues at all.

“The fact it was possible to quickly adjust the template at the side of the pitch to match our pitch sizes and keep that format for any further use of the machine was very impressive. It produced a straight line every time and once we programmed it, we were able to let it get on with marking with no issues at all.

“As part of the on-site training, Alex talked me through how to change the

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

templates and with a bit of practice it is something that you can easily do yourself. The beauty of it is once the measurements are in, they are saved on the device, so with a push of a button, you overmark on the exact same line again.

“For a site like this where we have a lot to mark out, it has to be a huge advantage. The machine marked out a full-size pitch in 20 minutes whereas it would take me at least double that just over marking an existing pitch. So, being able to save that time and go off and get other work done is a significant benefit.

“We also spend about two and a half days plotting out our running track and marking it out and this robot can do it much quicker than that.”

REVOLUTIONARY LINE MARKER IN THE UK The Intelligent One (IO) from Intelligent Marking has been recognised around the world for its accuracy, reliability and ease of use since it was released in 2016 and was awarded the Saltex Innovation Award in 2017. Since then it has seen further advancements to its GPS system and software to maintain its industry-leading specification saving operator time, money and resources.

ProSportUK Ltd is the sole distributor for Intelligent Marking in the UK, headed by Ian Robson and supported

by Alex Robinson who is the dedicated Product Specialist for the IO in the UK. Alex will provide onsite demonstrations on request and initial training, with ongoing field support whenever needed.

“The IO is a real game-changer, said Ian “Line-marking need no longer be time-consuming. With the IO it is quick, consistently accurate, with precision measurements every time.”

For more information visit www. prosportukltd.com or if you would like to request a demonstration contact Alex on Mobile: 07766220190

29

AERATION, IRRIGATION & DRAINAGE

Terrain’s deep aeration in Yorkshire Sculpture Park

S

ituated near Wakefield, West Yorkshire, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park is an open-air gallery that showcases work by world-class British and international artists, including Yorkshireborn Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and Damien Hirst. The park has one of the largest open-air collection of Moore’s bronzes in Europe. Spread over 500-acres of 18th century designed landscape of Bretton Hall, YSP opened in 1977 and was the first UK sculpture park based on temporary open-air exhibitions that were organized in London parks from the 1940s to 1970 by the Arts Council and London County Council.

Today, the ‘gallery without walls’ has an ever-changing exhibition programme and preparing to reopen after lockdown presented an opportunity for remedial work to be done. Following a site visit by hydrology consultants inspecting a waterlogged area, they brought in Terrain Aeration with their deep aeration treatment system. The area in question was an important part of the Lower Park and a popular area for visitors and curators.

It suffers from compaction due to footfall and the weight of sculptures, resulting in the build-up of standing water.

“It is unusual for the area to be cleared,” says Mark Chesman, Head of Estates and Parks at YSP, “but the sculptures in that area were removed for conservation work, and we seized the opportunity as part of a wider project. In all, it took two-and-ahalf days and they treated 4,000 square metres of land.”

30

Terrain Aeration’s Terralift hammers a hollow probe one metre into the soil using a JCB road breaker gun. At depth, the ground is usually so compacted it needs the hammer to break through.

Compressed air is then released to a maximum of 20Bar (280psi) to fracture and fissure the soil and the process is repeated in two-metre spacings, to ensure the fissures interlink. On the end of the air blast, dried seaweed is injected which sticks to the fissure walls, expanding and contracting with moisture content in the soil and keeping the area ‘breathing.’ The 1.5-inch probe holes created by the Terralift machine are backfilled with aggregate to provide a semi-permanent aeration/ventilation shaft, helping to keep the whole aeration process working. The park’s groundkeepers then overseeded the area to finish.

We tend to take trees for granted, in our parks, public spaces and estates but they are often subjected to stress as a result of several factors, such as nutrient shortage, surface compaction due to foot traffic, and waterlogging where water drains off hard surfaces. Yorkshire Sculpture Park features lime trees, beech and Atlas cedar amongst others and these were given Terrain Aeration treatment as well. Breaking up the soil around the roots, and beyond, means excess water will drain away from the roots to help stop anaerobic conditions and rotting of the root system. “We’re confident with what’s been done,” says Mark, “and will be looking at further areas to be treated, probably in the autumn.”

Terrain Aeration | 01449 673783 | www.terrainaeration.co.uk

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

TURF MANAGEMENT

An organic approach to turf nutrition

1

6 bowling greens across Hampshire and South Dorset have undergone a huge transformation thanks to new maintenance contractor Paul Wright and his organic approach to turf nutrition. Utilising a range of products from across the Suståne portfolio, some of the greens are now 100% organic, and the remainder are not far away - with all seeing improvements in density, strength and overall plant health.

Following recommendations and some first-hand experience in his years spent contracting on golf courses, Paul has now been using Suståne products for six years. “I got to know Suståne’s Russell Riley and speaking with him was the final confirmation I needed that converting fully over to organic feeding was the way to go. With assistance from fellow contractor Steve Hill, I took over the maintenance of the bowling greens which had previously been undertaken by the local councils and came straight in with the organic approach.”

The programme consists of Suståne 4-6-4 slow-release fertiliser through the winter, switching to 5-2-4+Fe fine grade for late summer application to provide a quick, even green-up followed by longlasting sources of organic nitrogen. This is supplemented with applications of Suståne’s Turf Revival 6-2-4 in the spring and Bolster humic acid bio-stimulant, blended with seaweed & iron, which is applied periodically over 10 months of the year to boost the swards tolerance to stresses – drought, salt and disease.

overcome any inherited problems. After this, and in conjunction with the regular mechanical maintenance, you end up in a situation where the sward is denser, with better rooting structure and improved resistance to disease. Because of this, and especially on those greens that are now 100% organic, we are also enjoying being herbicide and fungicide free.”

“Within a timeframe of just two or three seasons, you can see the effects and benefits of the organic feeds as you

“From an application perspective” Paul adds, “it feels cleaner and better for me than spraying various chemicals all day

32

long and in turn it’s better for any people around and the players themselves as they now return to the greens postlockdown.” He concludes, “Being able to say you’re organic is one thing but ultimately if the products don’t deliver results, then you quickly find yourself out on your ear! With 16 contracts and counting, it’s safe to say that the effectiveness of the Suståne products speak for themselves.” www.sustane.com

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

Alltrec 100% Electric Tool Carrier producing no CO2 emissions during operation

Hedge cutter

Weed controller

Weed brush

Cutting deck

A versatile machine that can be used with several different attachments, making it perfect for cutting grass, controlling weeds, brushing or cleaning.

It has no CO2-emission and is suitable for use in multi-use sports complexes, urban areas, campsites, holiday resorts and theme parks.

For more information visit www.campeyturfcare.com GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

 CampeyTurfCare  Campeys  CampeyMachinery  CampeyTurfCare

33

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

The Royal Burgess Golfing Society of Edinburgh opts for Iseki TH5420 ith over 280 years of history and curated by design greats such as ‘Old’ Tom Morris, Willie Park Jnr and James Braid, The Royal Burgess Golfing Society of Edinburgh continues to seek challenge and reward for its members.

W

Since the Millennium, one of the club’s focuses has been tree planting to create further visual interest and a healthier environment. GEO certified since April 2018, the parkland course, at Barnton, is only a few miles from Edinburgh’s city centre.

In his 12th year as Course Manager, Chris Yeaman, and his team of seven, witness first-hand an abundance of nature, while they go about their business of achieving smooth greens, lush fairways and well cared bunkers.

This spring, Chris Yeaman had requirement for a new compact tractor, and with the guidance of Rob Hogarth, Regional Sales Manager at local dealer, Fairways GM at Kinross, he headed straight to the Iseki TH5420.

“All our tractors are Iseki; I’ve been a fan for almost two decades. Our most recent, the TG6490, is a fine machine, but we had a gap for one to take over greens. The new Stage V compliance came into it as we are in the process of trying to extend our GEO certification for another three years, also high on our list was versatility.

“Everything we wanted in a tractor, this one does. We were fortunate enough to be the first in Scotland to 34

“

““Everything we wanted in a tractor, this one does. We were fortunate enough to be the first in Scotland to take delivery. It’s small enough for greens and tees, handles smoothly, and an adjustable driving position works for everyone.”

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

take delivery. It’s small enough for greens and tees, handles smoothly, and an adjustable driving position works for everyone. In time, we’ll get a mid mounted deck giving flexibility for mowing areas. Last year, also from Fairways, we got the Iseki zeroturn SZ330 mower for grass cutting between the trees; so, together with

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

the TH5420, we can get these areas cut even quicker.

Rob Hogarth from Fairways GM said: “The TH5420 has a 40 hp Stage V compliant, 3-cylinder turbo diesel engine that also comes with a mid PTO as standard, so it accommodates a variety of implements. The 3 speed

hydrostat makes for easy control. It’s a compact and high torque, powerful tractor, perfect for turf maintenance applications.”

For further information on the full ISEKI range of mowers and tractors please visit www.iseki.co.uk or call 01473 599266.

35

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

Snickers Workwear For Summer – Cooling Technology and Verifiable Sustainability

Agricultural, landscape and golf course irrigation

And, with the aim of being at the forefront of sustainability in Workwear, the new lightweight Polo and T-shirts are made of 100% recycled polyester with a bio-based, anti-odour finish with a smooth texture and efficient moisture transport for great working comfort. They’ve all got street-smart bodymapping designs for an amazing fit, outstanding functionality and long-lasting comfort – all day, every day.

Stay Safe In Our Hands with The TWL Heavy Duty Buddy Bag containing: • Underhill TurfSpy Early Stress Detection Glasses to Identify Turf/Vegetation Problems from Draught or Disease 2-10 Days Before Visible • Underhill Gulp Syringe Water Removal Pump • Underhill SuperKey the Multipurpose Golf Sprinkler Tool • Underhill EasyOut Tool for Fast, Easy Spray Head Removal and Replacement • Underhill EasyReach Key Toro or Rain Bird • Multitool • Super-bright, Waterproof, USB Rechargeable Headtorch • Pruners • Mobile Phone Power Bank • Hi-Viz Vest • Work Gloves • Compact First Aid Kit, Space Blanket, Hand Sanitiser, Disposable Gloves • Notepad and Pen • Sun Protection • Insect Repellent

www.snickersworkwear.co.uk

www.twl-irrigation.com

Everyone wants to be cool, and comfortable at work this summer – and to do their bit for saving the planet.

That’s why Snickers Workwear has integrated improved 37.5® fabric technology and ‘Verifiable Sustainability’ into its T- and Polo-shirts. The new AllroundWork styles are made from highly functional wafflestructured 37.5® fabric for optimal ventilation, cooling and moisture transport to keep you feeling fresh for longer.

36

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

NHS Tayside gardener, David Laing, left, with Fairways GM’s, Commercial Sales Manager, Bobby McDougall, with the new Iseki SF450.

Long-standing fairways GM customer, NHS Tayside goes for Iseki SF450 with muthing flail alcolm Ross, Grounds Maintenance Manager at NHS Tayside has been buying kit from local ISEKI dealer Fairways GM’s Kinross depot since its inception, 18 years ago. His team is responsible for grounds maintenance of NHS Tayside’s portfolio of properties throughout Angus, Dundee, Perth and Kinross, which covers a variety of NHS locations of different sizes, settings and challenges.

M

“We’re not just municipal parks, we are hospital sites, and our aim is to create a well maintained and attractive greenspace environment when public come for treatment or to visit and when members of staff come to work or wish to enjoy our greens space at break times. The grounds are uplifting and create a feeling of well-being.

“We’ve had a long association with GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

Fairways GM over the years, purchasing a range of products but the first machine was our Iseki SF300 in 2003.

Due to the superior build quality and service, our mower has lasted the test of time hence, we haven’t purchased that many new pieces of equipment, until now, with Fairways GM Kinross our first port of call,” said Malcolm Ross.

“Iseki build is renowned; our SF300 has been super reliable so it’s testimony to its excellent quality that it is still going strong. Admittedly, it has not been heavily used, but it still “punches above its weight”. The new machine will be a direct replacement.”

According to Malcolm, the SF450 has the adaptability his team requires: “We’re hoping it’s as consistently reliable as the last. Our previous outfront Muthing Flail proved its worth on our Ransome HR 300 so the new cut

and collect facility on the ISEKI SF450 will be a big plus for us; the engine is more powerful, so more able to deal with wet and longer grasses when needed.”

Bobby McDougall, Commercial Sales Manager for Fairways GM said: “The out-front flail deck gives a very impressive striped finish. Presentation must be on point for Malcolm’s team, but now they have the flexibility of being able to cut longer grasses with pristine results. Throughout the year, they use other attachments and implements for gathering leaves or clearing snow, so this Iseki, with 48 hp, will be of enormous help.”

For further information on the full ISEKI range of mowers and tractors please visit www.iseki.co.uk or call 01473 599266.

37

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

Premier Seed Expands Their Range Ready for the Turf Season

W

ith the warmer weather approaching and no more overnight frosts, plus the unseasonably wet May, now is the perfect time to be thinking about seeding or overseeding your turf. With an enhanced range of Sports Turf mixes alongside traditional lawn and amenity ranges, Premier Seed has the right seed for your turf.

Premier Seed Lawn & Landscape comes in a variety of pack sizes to suit your requirements, from 2kg, which will cover up to 50m², to 20kg which will cover 500m². Premier Seed also supply Drought Resistant and Shade Tolerant mixes to suit harsher conditions. New this year is Premier Formal Lawn seed which provides a deeper and thicker sward for that movie quality lawn look.

For equestrian and grazing use, Premier Seed supplies a range of paddock grass seed, in convenient 1 Acre pack sizes.

Premier Paddock with Herbs adds 38

additional and tasty nutrition safe for grazing animals, whilst the Hay & Silage Grass Mix is a high yielding seed allowing at least two bulky cuts of silage per year. If you require a smaller pack for repairing gateways, corners or heavy traffic areas,Premier Seed also offers a smaller 5kg pack of Paddock Seed.

The largest extension this year to the Premier Seed Range has been in the Sports Turf sector. Specificmixes have been formulated for Cricket Pitches, Bowling Greens, Golf Greens, Tennis Pitches and a hardwearing Polo & Racecourse Seed Mix. This is alongside the general Sports Pitch Seed and the Fine Cut Sports Turf Seed which are available in multiple pack sizes to suit your requirements.

Premier Seed has also introduced an Airfield Mix that complies with airfield regulations and helps minimise bird hazards. For the amenity sector Roadside & Embankment & Hydroseed Grass Mixes are now available.

Premier Seed prides themselves on a high‐quality seed, with much higher germination rates than EU standards and a 97.4% purity rate. This ensures less wastage and confidence that more of the grass will grow and will establish faster, with an enhanced sward. By using the correct mix in the right conditions landscapers and groundsmen can ensure excellent results every time. The secret to successful seeding is high quality, viable seeds.

Premier Seed has a dedicated team of experts ready to offer advice and ensure you get the right mix in the right pack size for your needs. They have technicians based throughout the UK, so site visits are not a problem and with a 24/7 UK based distribution centre, next day delivery is available on the full range.

Get advice on the right seed for your turf with next day delivery with Premier Seed. www.premierseed.co.uk 01522 246491

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

Hard-wearing Sports Grass Seed ®

Part of the Premier Seed Range

100% Perennial Ryegrass for heavy wear.

Produces a dense sward.

Ideal for Sports Pitches.

Extremely hard wearing and quick to recover.

Available in 10kg & 20kg bags offering excellent value.

The secret to successful seeding?

High quality, viable seeds.

A dedicated technical advice team are on hand for all your needs.

premierseed.co.uk | Tel: 01522 246491 | Email: sales@premierseed.co.uk

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

Making a strong first impression

C

overing hundreds of acres every year, life for machinery on Congleton Lawn Turf Farm is tough! For the last ten years, equipment from BLEC has been fundamental in their operation so, after a bumper busy year in 2020, the time was right for Owner Matthew Worth to upgrade to a duo of new units. Delivered on Good Friday, a Blecavator 300HD and Turf Seeder 3000 from Redexim were swiftly put to work and were quick to make a strong first impression.

Matthew, along with his brother Roger, have been looking after the 140-acre family turf farm in Cheshire since 2003. “We’re taking a turf crop off roughly every 12-15 months, and then a lot of work goes into preparing the bed ready for new seed to go in” he explains. “Once we’ve broken up compaction, ploughed the area and cultivated it a couple of times, we’ll then go on with the Blecavator to bury all the stones deep enough to be safely clear of the blades when it comes to harvesting the turf. It also levels the ground and provides a nice tilth for the seed to go in.”

“Having used a few different BLEC stone buriers over the years, we’ve seen a couple of major improvements in our new BV300HD model. Firstly, it deals with larger stones better - the bigger spaces between the rotors and the cover, and the new blade configuration reduces issues with clogging and jamming

40

up. It also has a three-speed gearbox which is ideal for us as we’ve got three different soil types on our site – peat, sand and clay. With the Blecavator in top gear, it loosens the soil on even our firmest and driest clay areas, leaving a nicely conditioned bed.”

With the ground prepared, the Turf-Seeder 3000 is then utilised to deliver the seed in two different directions. The Turf-Seeder features front notched ring rollers that create small pockets, ready to accept the seeds evenly into the top 12mm of the soil, before the rear roller splits the shallow ridges formed by the front roller and safely covers the seed. “Again, we’ve noticed the improvements in this machine compared to the previous model – particularly in the ease of adjustment and seed calibration system which gives us the required accuracy in delivery.”

Following the delivery of the brace of BLEC units in April 2021, the new Blecavator was in use for the first time less than an hour later! “Demand for turf is so high currently that our investment in new equipment was made at just the right time.

We’ve already used the Blecavator and Turf-Seeder on over 65 acres and have been seriously impressed with the results.” www.blecmachinery.com

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

SPECIALIST MOWERS

Unrivalled lightness of cut for sports grounds Toro’s Reelmaster 3575-D engineered to decrease turf compaction

T

oro’s Reelmaster 3575-D is the lightest available cylinder mower in its class, bringing an unrivalled lightness of cut to pitches, training grounds and academies.

Designed to be 20 percent lighter than traditional larger cylinder mowers, Toro’s Reelmaster 3575-D weighs just 2550lbs including the cutting units – that’s 500lbs less than comparable four-wheel mowers – to decrease turf compaction and bring a superior quality of cut even in wet conditions.

Not only that though, this machine has been designed with a front-to-back and side-to-side balance of weight to produce a low centre of gravity and has a large footprint, which, when combined with turf-friendly tyres, reduces turf damage.

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

Since its launch in 2019, football clubs like Manchester City have trusted the Reelmaster 3575-D to improve turf quality without sacrificing productivity and they’ve taken fairway cutting at golf clubs to a new level, too.

Alastair Rowell, UK sales manager for turfcare equipment at Reesink Turfcare, the sole Toro distributor in the UK for golf and sports fields equipment, explains: “This machine was designed to bring more choice to the lightweight fairway mower market – in fact, you could say it revolutionised it, and it

didn’t take groundscare customers long to realise that this would bring new benefits into their mowing of stadium pitches, training grounds, and academies too.

“The three-wheel drive system helps with the tight turns at the ends of the pitch and brings impressive traction to hilly cutting areas. The 100-inch width of cut means productivity comes as standard making light work of your cutting duties.”

The Reelmaster 3575-D is available with five inch or seven inch cutting units and will be sure to make an impression on the pitch without leaving one. Call Reesink Turfcare on 01480 226800 or visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk to find out more. www. reesinkturfcare.co.uk

41

SPECIALIST MOWERS

PRO-Z-essional mowing from Cub Cadet P

roven by landscape professionals Cub Cadet’s PRO Z Series of zero-turns will fulfil all your commercial requirements whilst providing a fast, premium quality cut, plus Cub Cadet is celebrating it’s 60th birthday this year with some great savings on their range including a saving of £360 on the RRP of the PRO Z1.

The patented SyncroSteer technology with steering wheel means that even the less experienced operators can benefit from the ease of use and amazing manoeuvrability of this machine.

The ability to control all four wheels with a steering wheel and steerable front wheels, an exclusive offering by Cub Cadet in the commercial sector, minimises the turf being churned up by the wheels as it would on a lap bar zeroturn, reduces mowing time by up to 10% compared to lap bar mowers, provides greater hillside stability up to 20°, enhanced traction on uneven terrain as well as mowing in straighter lines.

The PRO Z series powers through the thickest grass in one pass at maximum speeds of up to 12mph meaning you can do the job quicker. The high lift Marbain blades with a blade tip speed up to 18,500 fpm and the 3” total blade overlap will ensure that you always get a tight consistent cut. The frame and axle on the PRO Z floats as the machine moves allowing the deck to follow the shape of the terrain and avoids scalping.

Commercial grade petrol engines, rather than diesel, from Kohler, and Kawasaki provide the consistent power you need to get the job done and 42

maximise your work-day – reducing the downtime which could cost you both time and money. The petrol engines benefit from having lower emissions and reduced fuel usage.

Comfort is at the forefront of each machine’s design. Your operators can experience a smooth ride all day long – meaning they are working in vibration-controlled comfort, lessening downtime for your business. Angled back adjustments, padded armrest and lumbar support give added protection across the whole range.

The PRO Z series has everything and more that you would expect from a quality professional machine - ultimate performance, comfort and durability that delivers a fast, premium cut all at a great price.

The range is available from specialist Cub Cadet dealers located across the UK. *RRP is £9,958.80

www.cubcadet.co.uk

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

TH

NE

M DO FE I S N R E N S O ’T DS U 30 T JU !

OF

BIG BIRTHDAY SAVINGS

YEARS

SAVE £360 ON THE PRO Z1 SAVE

£360 Z1 137 RS 3 YEAOURS H 1000 NTY A WAPRRRIVAINTEES&S BUS

UNBELIEVABLE MANOEUVRABILITY AND GREAT PRODUCTIVITY FOR YOUR BUSINESS • Proven by landscape professionals • Powerful Kohler engine • Delivers true zero-turn handling with less overlap

• Reduces mowing time by up to 10% compared to lap bar mowers • The thickest strongest steel cutting deck in the industry

FIND YOUR NEAREST DEALER AT WWW.CUBCADET.CO.UK

*WHILE STOCKS LAST. OFFER PERIOD 1ST APRIL – 30TH JUNE 2021. RRP £9,958.80. SAVINGS ARE ON RRP. SEE YOUR LOCAL DEALER FOR MORE DETAILS. CUB CADET RESERVE THE RIGHT TO INCREASE THE PRICE OF THE MACHINES SHOULD THE MARKET CHANGE AND WITHDRAW THE OFFER AT ANY TIME DURING THE OFFER PERIOD. THE PROMOTER OF THE OFFER IS CUB CADET, DISTRIBUTED IN THE UK AND IRELAND BY E.P.BARRUS LTD. THIS OFFER IS ONLY AVAILABLE IN THE UK AND IRELAND. THE REGISTERED ADDRESS IS GLEN WAY, LAUNTON RD, BICESTER OX26 4UR. FULL TERMS AND CONDITIONS AVAILABLE AT WWW.CUBCADET.CO.UK/BIRTHDAYOFFER

WEED CONTROL

Foamstream helps keep Cornwall streets clean

W

eedingtech’s Foamstream system is helping street and public open spaces cleansing in Cornwall with two Foamstream M1200 systems now being operated in the county.

Foamstream is known to be the most cost-effective and versatile herbicidefree solution for controlling unwanted vegetation and carrying out sanitisation tasks in large green and urban spaces. Its patented low-pressure process combines hot water and biodegradable foam made from natural plant oils and sugars. The active ingredient is the heat from the hot water which the foam insulates to ensure 44

it is maintained and kills or severely damages the unwanted vegetation including weeds, moss and algae.

While primarily founded on weed control, Foamstream is also designed for power washing, general sanitisation and chewing gum removal. It is certified organic by the British Soil Association and approved for killing bacteria. As such, it is highly effective for sanitising surfaces and urban cleaning. Optional lances are used in the process, and the eco-friendly system is safe for use around people, animals and delicate environments.

Use of the Foamstream M1200 system

ensures minimum environmental impact on Cornwall’s street and public open space weed control and cleansing. The M1200 combines high performance with low-cost operation and fast treatment speed. Mounted on a pickup, flatbed truck or trailer, it comes with a large water capacity and delivers a high flow rate, making it particularly well suited to treating large open areas in urban and rural environments.

For further detail on Weedingtech and Foamstream, please visit: https://www. weedingtech.com/why-foamstream/ You can also see more about how Foamstream works here

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

Safe . Affordable . Effective ✓ Cost-effective and efficient (from as little as £395 per month) ✓ Instant results ✓ Safe around people, animals, waterways ✓ All weather, all surface, all-year-round solution ✓ Weeds, moss and algae control ✓ Street cleaning – gum and graffiti removal, pressure

washing, sanitisation For more information on how to integrate herbicide-free weed control in to your business contact Weedingtech today: t: +44 (0) 203 909 0050 | e: info@weedingtech.com | w: www.weedingtech.com

AERATION, IRRIGATION & DRAINAGE

Water Supplies for Irrigation or all groundsmen and greenkeepers climate change brings about real issues in maintaining good playing surfaces as we experience periods of drought and exceptionally high temperatures. In West Sussex during summer 2019, 36 C was experienced at some golf clubs. The cool season type grasses used in the UK were never developed to withstand these temperatures.

F

So what can you do about it? Well obviously you need to irrigate to get sufficient water to the grass roots but some of you may not be aware of the advantage of syringing. If you are lucky enough to have an automatic irrigation system then you should find this facility available as one of the programmes. For those not familiar with this practice it involves running the sprinkler system for a short period 2 or 3 minutes – just enough to damp down the grass. The sun then burns off the moisture and in so doing the latent heat factor cools down the grass plant relieving some of the stress.

All of these irrigation applications require the precious resource WATER. Now climate change has not in general reduced the annual rainfall, it just tends to arrive in heavy downpours and thus the dry periods are longer. Much has been said about the water shortage in the UK but quantity is not the issue; it more

about storage and distribution. Water purchased for the Water Company is expensive and subject to restriction just at the time you may need it. So what can you do about it?

Providing you have sufficient space the construction of an earth bank reservoir is the best line of action. If you can find an area 100m x 80m then you could store 12,000,000litres. Even in a space 75 x 55m you could store 5,900,000litres.

So now you have the storage how do you fill it? First thing to know is that no licence is needed to abstract 20,000 litres a day from a natural source providing the abstraction does not have a significant impact on the stream flow

or the underground aquifer. This would put 7,300,000 litres into your reservoir per year. Providing the geological strata is suitable you might get a licence to abstract at a higher rate from a suitable borehole. Often the Environment Agency would require the abstraction to be in the winter but that is not a problem if your reservoir is big enough.

Water harvesting can be useful for sports grounds that have large stands with roofs and lots of hard surfaces. Storage is a bigger issue. You can build a completely invisible underground storage system beneath the playing surfaces without the use of concrete.

Nearly all these abstraction and storage situations will require some sort of planning consent as well as careful engineering. You need to engage consulting engineers from whom you should expect to cover all aspects of the project from initial surveys, geological investigation, consultations with the Environment Agency and other agencies for the protection of nature. They should be your consultants, entirely independent of contractors and manufacturers so as to ensure you get the best system at the best possible price. www.2ic.co.uk

46

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

An end to irrigation water supply problems

This could be you

2ic are specialist consultants in the engineering and management of irrigation systems and rural water supply schemes. With over 60 years’ experience, we have designed irrigation for golf courses – from prestige to community courses – plus sports pitches and public gardens. We specialise in ground water surveys and development. We also design water features, reservoirs, water supplies, private water systems including special events such as music festivals.

2iC Consultants Ltd 07742 658918 or 07768 353654 | Email info@2ic.co.uk | www.2ic.co.uk

TOOLS, PLANT & EQUIPMENT

SCAG Windstorm Leaf Blower ticks a lot of boxes The SCAG Windstorm, supplied by STM Co Ltd, is a stand-on high-power cyclone leaf blower. With an engine size of 37HP you can see that the expression “highpower” is not used lightly. The stand-on configuration was developed for the SCAG V-Ride grasscutting range and has proved very successful as a format for ease of transport, visibility and manoeuverability.

And when you think of full day’s work wearing a backpack blower you can see a further advantage as regards wear and tear on the operator, as Eric did himself, having had a back injury in the past. Not only are you not walking about wearing a backpack, you are riding on the machine, with its comfortable sprung operator stand.

One such machine has been bought by Eric Gilbert for his Landscaping and grounds maintenance company. These machines are, as can be judged from the picture, quite an investment – but Eric has no trouble justifying it – and not just on financial grounds.

Also Eric had also found additional benefits. Where it is requested that grass cuttings are not left behind and the property set-up allows – the Windstorm can blow the cuttings away!

The quoted performance figure for the Windstorm is 6000cfm and there are several quotes as to how this translates into time saved, for example: 6 men clearing leaf debris on a holiday park in 30 minutes turns into one man in 20 minutes.

He has also used it to great effect to clear light powdery snow, making it a machine for all year; and if impacted snow clearance is required, a snow blade can be fitted to his SCAG SWZ pedestrian mower.

Eric himself, working on big properties, has seen a whole day’s intricate work by two people reduced easily to one man in two hours.

The machines are available through the STM dealership network. To find your nearest dealer ring 01789 488450, email info@st-mach.com or look at our website www.st-mach.com

STM Co - suppliers of professional

quality PEDESTRIAN, RIDE-ON and REMOTE CONTROL mowers, plus DEBRIS CLEARANCE equipment

Distributed in the UK exclusively by STM For more information or to arrange a demonstration: Call 01789 488450 or e-mail info@st-mach.com 48

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

SPORTS GROUND EQUIPMENT

The Greenkeeper Pro Revolutionising Ballmark Repairs The Greenkeeper Pro features Pitchfix’s patented RepairTec pin technology, designed for the Fusion 2.5 divot repair tool and was deemed top product of the year in 2017, 2018 and 2019, winning Golf Digest’s Editors’ Choice award.

he Greenkeeper Pro is 33” long (No More bending down) and constructed with an ergonomic rubberised handle, a carbon fiber shaft and a spring-loaded CNC aluminium head with 4 stainless steel RepairTec pins. With a single push and pull action into the ball mark, the stainless-steel pins in the head pull up, creating a level finish and a perfectly repaired and aerated ball mark. With a dry-firm and wet-soft choice in a Greenkeeper Pro set, Pitchfix has ensured that any green condition can be repaired with ease.

Pro at Torrey Pines in a video at https:// youtu.be/9OI4cRArhDg

T

“We’re very excited to introduce the new Greenkeeper-Pro to green keeping teams around the world,” said Bart Fokke, the CEO of Pitchfix. “This is the first tool of its kind and it will make life much easier for superintendents and their teams. We look forward to sharing the capabilities of the GreenkeeperPro with superintendents, golf course

owners, club managers and buyers.

It will revolutionise the process of repairing ball marks whilst not damaging the greens and it’s already in use at many well-known resorts”.

“I like to fix several ball marks when I walk up to a green,” said Pitchfix Ambassador Chip Beck, a three-time U.S. Ryder Cup Team member, former Vardon Trophy winner and the second player to shoot a 59 in a PGA Tour event.

“The Greenkeeper-Pro is an outstanding tool that makes it very easy to repair multiple ball marks quickly and make it look as if the marks were never there.”

Chip demonstrates the Greenkeeper

GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

About Pitchfix: Founded in 2005, Pitchfix is the market leader for switchblade divot tools and other golf green related products in Europe and Asia, renowned for high standards in design and product quality. and is on its way to be the market leader in divot tools and other golf related products in the United States by designing, manufacturing and distributing an ever-growing line of high quality and innovative European designed products.

Pitchfix has operational and manufacturing facilities in the Netherlands, Hong Kong, China, and the U.S. Pitchfix promises a customer service, second to none, with orders being fulfilled within three days.

For further information go to www.pitchfix.com.

49

XXXXXX XXXXXX MOWERS SPECIALIST

What’s new in fairway and outfield turf maintenance?

T

he he improvement improvement in in recent recent years years in in the the overall overall quality quality of of sports sports turf, turf, has has been been outstanding. outstanding.

This This achievement achievement has has been been in in the the face face of of some some very very extreme extreme weather weather conditions conditions which which we we have have experienced experienced in in recent recent years. years. Add Add to to that, that, the the ever ever lengthening lengthening list list of of banned banned chemicals, chemicals, and and the the progress progress in in turf turf quality quality is is even even more more impressive. impressive.

What What has has become become apparent apparent is is that that fairway fairway and and outfield outfield turf turf is is now now receiving receiving aa degree degree of of attention attention that that was was previously previously reserved reserved only only for for fine fine turf. turf. No No longer longer is is just just mowing mowing and and aerating aerating sufficient sufficient to to achieve achieve the the desired desired playing playing standards. standards.

Turf Turf professionals professionals are are now now wanting wanting to to do do the the cultural cultural practices practices that that have have been been used used for for decades decades on on golf golf greens, greens, such such as as grooming, grooming, rolling, rolling, brushing brushing and and sarel sarel rolling, rolling, for for their their fairway fairway and and outfield outfield turf. turf.

And And thanks thanks to to an an impressive impressive array array of of innovative innovative equipment equipment from from GreenTek, GreenTek, itit is is now now viable viable to to do do these these tasks tasks on on large large areas. areas.

THATCH THATCH REMOVAL REMOVAL FOR FOR LARGE LARGE AREAS AREAS The The latest latest launch launch from from GreenTek GreenTek is is the the new new turf turf grooming grooming rake rake called called the the TurfTurfConditioner Conditioner 12.

12. Covering Covering aa 3.6m 3.6m wide wide working working width width itit is is ideal ideal for for removing removing

The The Multi-Brush Multi-Brush is is ideal ideal for for dew dew and and wormcast wormcast dispersal dispersal thatch thatch from from fairways fairways and and sports sports pitches. pitches.

Three Three rows rows of of adjustable adjustable rakes rakes give give aa very very fine fine raking raking pattern, pattern, with with adjustable adjustable intensity intensity to to suit suit all all types types of of turf turf including including synthetic synthetic 3G 3G pitches. pitches.

Other Other innovative innovative equipment equipment for for wide wide area area turf turf maintenance maintenance includes includes the the MultiMultiSarel, Sarel, which which is is the the world’ world’ss widest widest Sarel Sarel Roller.

Roller. This This hydraulically hydraulically folds folds out out to to aa massive massive 5.4m 5.4m working working width width and and peppers peppers the the surface surface with with thousands thousands of of neat neat round round

holes holes to to prevent prevent surface surface sealing, sealing, and and provide provide entry entry for for air, air, water, water, and and nutrients. nutrients.

FUSARIUM FUSARIUM AND AND WORMCAST WORMCAST CONTROL CONTROL WITHOUT WITHOUT CHEMICALS CHEMICALS Also Also available available in in the the same same 5.4m 5.4m format format is is the the Multi-Brush, Multi-Brush, ideal ideal for for dispersing dispersing dew dew to to reduce reduce fusarium fusarium risk, risk, and and also also for for removing removing wormcasts. wormcasts. The The chemicals chemicals for for treating treating both both of of these these problems problems are are now now very very limited limited which which is is why why cultural cultural methods methods have have become become so so important. important.

The The final final product product in in this this group group is is the the 5.4m 5.4m Multi-Roller, Multi-Roller, ideal ideal for for regular regular light light rolling rolling of of golf golf fairways, fairways, and and to to true true up up divots divots between between training training sessions sessions at at football football academies. academies.

So So whilst whilst the the weather weather and and chemical chemical legislations legislations present present their their challenges, challenges, GreenTek GreenTek are are helping helping greenkeepers greenkeepers and and groundsmen groundsmen to to forge forge ahead ahead in in their their quest quest to to provide provide perfect perfect playing playing surfaces. surfaces.

Multi-Sarel, Multi-Sarel, the the world’s world’s widest widest sarel sarel roller! roller!

2 2 50

www.greentek.uk.com www.greentek.uk.com GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk || April April 2021 GroundskeepingJournal.co.uk | June/July 2021

TURF-CONDITIONER 12

The cost-effective way to dethatch fairways and sports pitches The new Turf-Conditioner 12 dethatches and grooms big areas fast with its 3.6m (12’) working width. It has three rows of adjustable rakes set in a staggered pattern to give thorough thatch removal, of exactly the intensity you require.

The Turf-Conditioner 12 also provides so many other benefits for your turf.  

 

 

 

It lifts the nap on the grass before mowing to give a better quality of cut.

It stands up the grass to allow better air circulation and avoid fungal disease.

It disperses wormcasts, and leaves beautifully groomed stripes.

Also suitable for 3G synthetic pitches.

WATCH THE VIDEO

BOOK A DEMO

Ask for a FREE Demonstration via your local GreenTek dealer

0113 267 7000

www.greentek.uk.com

NEW

Vehicle tracking that works for you

Find out just how much you can save with Quartix

No auto-renewal | Free mobile app | 1st class customer service

Visit quartix.net or call 01686 807 607 to schedule a free demo