Landscape & Amenity Product Update November 2020

Nation goes green as a record 2,061 Green Flag Awards announced

to Covid-19 and while staff and volunteers dealt with challenges that went along with huge numbers of additional visitors.

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

coveted Green Heritage Site Accreditation for the management of their historic features. The Accreditation is supported by Historic England.

Paul Todd - Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, said: “Parks and green spaces have never been more important for the physical and mental health of everyone.”

If the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has taught us anything, it’s how much we value our local parks and green spaces.

All year round, an army of unsung dedicated parks staff and volunteers look after these treasured spaces.

In mid-October landmarks across the country, including the White Cliffs of Dover, the London Stadium in Queen

Elizabeth Olympic Park,

Liverpool

Salford’s

went green to celebrate this year’s Green Flag Award-winning parks and green spaces and to say a massive ‘thank you’ to the thousands of people who work tirelessly to give us some fantastic places to escape to.

Buildings, band stands and even a windmill will be lit

up as part of the celebrations marking the announcement of the 2020 Green Flag Awards, the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

From world-famous London parks to small community spaces, canals to cemeteries, more than 2,000 sites across the country will be raising their flags today.

The announcement, normally made in July, was delayed this year due

This year, a total of 2061 places have achieved the Green Flag Award, having been assessed by an army of more than 1,000 volunteer judges.

Among the winners are Sunderland City Council’s Mowbray Park and Jubilee Park managed by Canary Wharf Management Ltd.

In addition, 109 of the winners have also achieved the much-

The GMA moves SALTEX to November 2021

Due to mounting pressure from the global Coronavirus pandemic, the Grounds Management Association (GMA) regrettably announces that it has taken the decision to move SALTEX to 3-4 November 2021, from its planned Spring dates (3-4 March 2021).

The GMA has been strategically planning for every eventuality to ensure the exhibition is a bio-secure event, in partnership with the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and internationally recognised professional events bodies, however ongoing Government restrictions and local and national lockdowns, as well as rising cases of Coronavirus

have highlighted the immediate challenges to stage a successful event in March.

This decision has factored in recent analysis from both exhibitor and visitor surveys, as well as discussions with relevant parties. Organisers have been closely re-negotiating with the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), returning the exhibition to its original Autumn dateline.

When visitors were asked on date preferences to attend a trade event, November was the first option – followed by October and September. Exhibitors also echoed this, with 64% stating a preference to attend SALTEX in November 2021 due to latest news and restrictions.

In addition, latest visitor research showed that an overwhelming majority (80%) stated that attending an indoor trade show was their number one preference. In more usual circumstances, SALTEX brings over 9,000 visitors across two days with circa 400 brands exhibiting, and visitor attendance at the NEC has significantly grown year-on-year.

The next show will be its 75th anniversary marking the longstanding contribution to the grounds sector.

Geoff Webb, CEO at the GMA commented: “As hard as this decision was to make, we knew it was important to act quickly and responsibly so we can begin looking to the

future and stage a successful event once restrictions ease again. We have recently seen confidence eroding despite early optimism.

“Our recent surveys have given us excellent insight from

“All the research shows that spending time in good-quality green space can improve people’s health and wellbeing, that is why it is important that they are managed to the recognised standard of the Green Flag Award.

“This is now something that millions more recognise after the challenges of the past six months. All those involved in the Green Flag Award should be congratulated on their achievement.”

Green Flag Awards

both exhibitors and visitors, giving us evidence that reflects current circumstances so we can continue planning an event that best reflects the turf care sector’s requirements.

SALTEX

Sisis Auto-Rotorake Mk5

Sefton Park in

(pictured) and

MediaCityUK,

The decision to move SALTEX yet again is the only sensible decision left to The GMA.

In the interests of health, safety and common sense, The GMA should be applauded for not only announcing that SALTEX 2021 will now take place in its original date slot of November at NEC Birmingham but also for making that decision as early as practical.

Although it now effectively means the industry as a whole will not get together for more than 12 months –BTME 2020 last January being the last headline event – it remains the right decision.

It does throw up the possibility of the industry having a proper discussion about how we progress with largescale events, exhibitions and conferences. The launch of the SAGE event in the summer of 2021, an outdoor product-led exhibition with demonstration areas, will be a welcome addition to the annual diary.

The outdoor event may well enjoy a resurgence in the short-term as many of us would feel more comfortable in such a setting rather than a cavernous indoor exhibition space. However, does it signal the demise of such indoor events? It seems unlikely, but what might be worth embarking on is a review of when and how both SALTEX and BTME are staged. Both are now indoor, winter events and should organisers consider changing dates and even venues to provide a more even spread throughout the calendar year?

The team here are supporters of both headline events in their current guises, but as the industry adapts to changes across every aspect of its day-to-day work, it is probably timely for an active discussion on the role of exhibitions, events, product demonstration and conferences. This month would originally have been our SALTEX 2020 issue. However, instead we have a varied mix of features and spotlight taking in the industry as a whole – from the urban environment, through Play & Activity, to machinery and vehicles – as well as a special look at the emergence of battery-powered equipment.

Paul Groves, Editor

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While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of all articles and information appearing in Landscape & Amenity Product Update, the publisher does not accept liability for errors

Well managed green space adds millions to property values

Well managed green space is adding millions to the value of properties around the country, report national land management charity, the Land Trust, as it publishes the findings of a joint research project with Lancaster University and AMION Consulting.

The research highlights that the Trust’s management of green spaces around homes is contributing to an uplift in house prices estimated to be in the region of £394 million for properties situated nearby the charity’s sites.

The Trust is able to report these figures for the first time following research carried out in partnership with Lancaster University.

The research aimed to provide robust data on the quantity of housing located close to the green spaces managed by the Trust. Alex Wylie, who was on placement with the Land

Trust while a Geography undergraduate at Lancaster University, identified nearly 130,000 homes within 500 metres of the Trust’s sites, using a combination of housing and property data and geographical information systems.

The Land Trust’s Director of Portfolio Management, Alan Carter, said: “At the Land Trust we have known for some time that well managed green spaces have a hugely positive impact on the value of property prices in a local area.

“However until now we have been unable to quantify that figure on a nationwide scale as we simply haven’t had the data to do so. However the hard work and dedication of Alex and Lancaster University has allowed us to understand how many houses are situated within 500 metres of one of our green spaces. Applying this, alongside

Ariens APEX spells increased productivity

Refreshed for the 2020/21 season, the Ariens APEX model’s redefined features rightly take it to a leading place in the UK’s fast-growing zeroturn market.

The sheer speed at which you can cut grass compared to other types of ride-on mower would be enough in its favour but there is a lot more worth considering when you’re choosing a zero-turn.

As a family-owned brand, Ariens has built on a reputation for engineering excellence and it is evident in the way the APEX is constructed with wellcrafted components, Hydro-Gear transaxles and a hardy deck. Its speed and ability to turn on its axis mean users can expect to cut mowing time in half. Perfect when you need to get to your next job.

The APEX features an industryleading frame design, with large formed tubular frame rails serving as the backbone to support the loads of the machine.

Most important in the list of commercial-grade features is the 10-gauge welded cutting deck design.

You get a highly durable 14cm (51/2”) deep deck with a reinforced leading-edge providing the airflow you need to tackle tough mowing conditions.

The APEX boasts 15 cutting positions in 0.6cm (1/4”) increments, effortlessly chosen with the vertical dial selector.

Models available: APEX 48 with a 122cm (48”) cutter deck or the APEX 52 with a 132cm (52”) cutter deck.

The constant belt tension system ensures correct belt tension, minimising wear and heat while providing enhanced belt life with minimal adjustments. There is also little effort required in lifting the cutting deck since the APEX has a foot-operated deck lift system, which is ideal for travelling over paths and gravel areas.

the existing published research provides a really clear picture of the value that our green spaces can generate.

“Many of the Land Trust’s sites are situated in deprived communities desperately needing quality housing stock.

“However due to the relatively low land prices before we get involved in a site, developers are not able to justify the investment of developing at these locations.

“After several years of working with key developers, we have realised that as we deliver well managed green space, the land adjacent to our sites which is zoned for development becomes economically viable, offering developers real opportunities to deliver low cost and affordable housing for the local community.”

Land Trust

Cut more by stopping less. Perfect for large jobs on tight deadlines.

With its large 41 litre fuel tank and massive 810 litre collector, the Toro ProLine H800 stops less so that you can mow more –you don’t even need to stop when adjusting the height of cut! And with the High-Lift system, it can empty clippings directly into a truck bed. Perfect for when time is tight. reesinkturfcare.co.uk

Get MORE from your turfcare partner this year: More products . More advice . More training . More finance

Ariens

User feedback is key for continued growth for Simon Richard Ltd

amenity tasks,” continues Simon Richard. “Financial restraints mean more and more customers are looking at out-front flail mowers in preference to cylinder and rotary mowers as they can deliver the required cut quality.

“The Muthing Range is also proven to consume less power and be easier to run, making it a perfect match for a range of power units, be it a John Deere, Kubota, Shibaura, Iseki, amongst others.

Perennial, the charity for people in horticulture, is encouraging those working in the sector to get help with debt by calling their expert Debt Advice team.

For those finding it difficult to pay their bills or who have money worries, Perennial’s free Debt Advice Team is available on 0800 093 8546.

help with budgeting towards a debt-free future.

and achieving a good balance between income and spending.

Simon Richard Ltd has recently celebrated 30 years trading in the agriculture and groundscare industries.

The business was originally established to sell fertilisers, sprayers and toppers but took the decision 20 years ago to diversify when it was appointed as UK Importers for the Muthing flail range.

“This fitted very well as we had been involved with another flail manufacturer for 10 years prior,” explain Simon Richard.

“Working closely with Dr Michael Muthing, owner and Managing Director of Muthing GmbH, allowed us to help develop, test and assist in the launch of a range of ground care products using design features which have become the basis of our current Muthing ground care range.

“The product range has evolved and developed primarily based on feedback from our UK client base that has enjoyed the benefit of flails developed and tested in the UK and built in Germany.”

Leicester City Council, in particular, played a huge part, along with Mitchell Industries, when in 2005 they added the

yellow Muthing flails to their fleet. This was the start of a long-term relationship and the continued growth and product development of the now firmly established Muthing brand within the UK professional groundscare sector.

“Muthing demonstrates the benefits afforded by the flail when compared with a cylinder mower or rotary, for a range of

“Year on year sales growth requires a fast and efficient parts support service and we pride ourselves on 92% of orders being dispatched on the same day. We look forward to continuing to support an expanding dealer and end–user client portfolio, based on product knowledge, continued development and after sales service.”

Perennial’s qualified Debt Advisers are ready to support individuals with their financial concerns. They give free advice on all types of debt from credit cards to council tax, mortgages to fines, talk to creditors, and

Wendy Tozer, Debt Advice Manager at Perennial, says: “Most of the people we help need financial help and support and we know it is a huge contributing factor to stress and other mental health issues. We want everyone working in horticulture to have the confidence to take control of their money and our team is here to help.

“Alongside the helpline we also offer an online budgeting tool which is a great first step towards understanding personal finances

“By being money-aware and creating a budget, we hope that those who are struggling financially will then be encouraged to spend wisely this Christmas.”

Perennial also works with individuals to help ensure they are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to. This is vital support as many people have experienced a change in financial situation during 2020.

Perennial

All new outdoor tradeshow looks to be massive for 2021

Set for 27 - 29 July 2021, industry buzz is building around trade show newcomer the Sports and Grounds Expo (SAGE).

Set in the stunning surrounds of the Three Counties Showground at the foot of the Malvern Hills, the show has a clear focus on hands-on demonstrations and experiences, offering visitors the chance to see and test out the latest products and ideas within the industry whilst maintaining a safe environment.

The target of SAGE is to bring together grounds personnel from a broad range of sectors and provide an engaging and wellresourced environment.

Many companies are looking to improve efficiency and cost effectiveness and this is a key area, which SAGE is focusing on; exploring and showcasing the products that allow this to actually happen across the industry.

“Our motivation is to give visitors a hands-on experience as much as possible, without compromising on safety, whilst it has always been the case, the pandemic has created extra pressure for many companies that are looking to streamline operations and ensure cost efficiency,” said Event Manager Vicky Panniers.

“With our industry adapting at pace, SAGE provides the perfect environment for everyone to be able to experience the latest innovations on the market.”

The renowned outdoor venue provides reassurances to both the visitor and exhibitor alike. Visitors will be impressed by the abundance of space and the diversity of products on show, whilst exhibitors will be astounded at the value for money on offer.

There are exciting plans in progress – watch this space! Keep up to date with all the SAGE news by following us on Twitter & Facebook.

SAGE will be the highlight of the industry calendar next summer, offering a safe and proactive environment for those operating across all sectors of the sports and grounds maintenance industry.

For more information, contact the team by email: team@sportsandgrounds.co.uk, by phone: +44 (0)1684 580101 or go to www.sportsandgrounds.co.uk today.

SAGE

Simon Richard

Golf Course Manager finds winning formula with Agrovista Amenity

Headland EPH programme reduces costly fungicide applications

The transition from the main growing season into the cooler, wetter autumn and winter months brings many changes to a turf maintenance programme.

For Stratford Oaks Course Manager James Cleaver, it’s no different – with October marking the switch of liquid fertiliser programmes over to monthly applications of the The Headland 20-20-30 tank-mix of Liquid Turf Hardener, Turfite Elite and Seamac ProTurf Fe, and more recently with the addition of Mantle, has been a staple in the winter-feeding programme at Stratford Oaks for a number of years.

“This tank-mix is easy to apply and gives us healthy growth and a stronger, denser, more resilient sward,” he said. “The inclusion of the Seamac® ProTurf Fe (citrate chelated iron with Seaweed) delivers fantastic colour on our

greens which is always pleasing for the members throughout the winter months.”

To further increase the efficacy and effectiveness against disease occurrence, specifically Microdochium nivale, James will supplement the 20-20-30 tank mix with two applications of PPT114 – Headland’s water-soluble micronutrient formulation featuring Manganese, Zinc and Copper, alongside Harpin Protein Elicitorbetween October and February.

The tried and tested proactive plant health approach will be in place for James until the new growing season arrives in March, when he will switch to another Headland soluble tank-mix of Elevate Fe, XTEND 46-0-0 and TriCure AD across the fairways, tees and approaches.

Headland Amenity

reason that he relies on a range of products from Agrovista Amenity.

The Worcestershire Golf Club is proud to be the oldest club in Worcestershire and one of the oldest in England - the 16th oldest to be precise.

“I’ve been working with Agrovista Amenity for the past three years, ever since Ray Hunt (Amenity Specialist for Agrovista Amenity) began coming to see me,” he said. “I don’t tend to chop and change products and once I’ve found ones that suit the course then I continue to use them.”

One of the first products Steve started using from Agrovista Amenity, and one which he

particularly singled out for praise, is Humimax – a liquid humate product derived from a naturally occurring source.

It operates both in the soil and the grass plant, and the micronised formulation is highly efficient for foliar absorption, making it especially useful for tank-mixing - which is exactly what Steve does.

Steve is about to enter his second winter with Agrovista Amenity’s Bullet Phosphite after being impressed with his first taste of the product last year. Bullet Phosphite is a super-concentrated form (37%) of stabilised phosphite (PO3) derived from a blend of ammonium and potassium phosphate which is taken up quickly and mobilised around the whole plant.

Agrovista Amenity

Steve Lloyd, Golf Course Manager at The Worcestershire Golf Club, admits to ‘sticking’ to what he knows works best and it is for this

THE UK’S BIGGEST OUTDOOR SPORTS & GROUNDS TRADE SHOW

Fleet is future proofing the line marking industry

Fleet is the largest specialised sports line marking paint manufacturer in the UK.

With this comes the responsibility to set a firm example and lead the way in line marking innovation.

In the contemporary marketplace, green initiatives are not just about acting responsibly for local communities and future generations, but are also essential to remaining competitive.

On top of this there is another critical area that we understand must be tackled in order to progress and that is the concept of “going green”. Everyone must understand the impact their decisions have - not just on the line marking industry but the environment as a whole.

Fleet has invested over the last 12 months in solar panels on buildings and warehouses in the UK. Meaning that all Fleet paint manufacture is now carbon neutral.

Not only is our paint ecofriendly, our machines are too. The COG Line Marking System has meant that the target of removing single use plastics from the market can now be achieved - without lessening the quality of the line produced.

Line marking must be sustainable and Fleet are paving the way to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint.

Security delivered with Birkdale

In a move that reaffirms the company’s position as a leader in advanced gate and fencing hardware, the nation’s foremost gate and fencing accessory supplier, Birkdale, has been awarded full product patents for the single and double locking versions of its innovative GATEMATE Euro Profile Long Throw Lock.

Designed to provide superior gate security across all types of applications, the GATEMATE Euro Profile Long Throw Lock outperforms traditional locking systems on a number of levels.

The durable and reliable solution features a unique, hardened core bolt design, with

Dress for windy weather with Snickers Workwear

Snickers Workwear jackets are well known for delivering performance and comfort at work - integral features of this new range of Windproof Jackets.

Sharp, stylish looks and marketleading GORE WINDSTOPPER and stretch CORDURA fabric technology to make this jacket a must for winter on site or outdoor leisurewear.

This great-looking jacket has a fleece-lined interior for warmth and climate control fabric to keep your body warm or comfortably cool when you most need it.

With a water-repellent fabric, it can be worn on its own or combined with Snickers’ Mid and Base Layer garments.

Fashionable and functional, this jacket has long arm cuffs with thumb grips for warm comfort and a high collar that delvers extra wind protection.

It’s also got stretchable side panels in for comfort and flexibility with stretch CORDURA-reinforced elbows for durability.

Snickers

a high-security six pin lock barrel, making it far harder to cut through, if attempted.

This resistance can be further enhanced with the addition of a High Security Escutcheon, which is also supplied by Birkdale.

Additionally, as the bolt used on the patented solution is of a greater length than those used on standard systems, the locks are not affected by a gap between the gate and gatepost.

Birkdale

STIHL launches powerful new chainsaw

STIHL has launched the new MS 881, the world’s most powerful series-produced chainsaw, ideal for professional heavy-duty felling, logging and mobile saw mills.

With 121.6cc of displacement and 8.6hp/6.4kW output, the MS 881 is not only 19% more powerful than the heavy duty MS 661, but also the only saw in the STIHL line-up to drive a 0.404 pitch chain. With standard bar lengths up to 41” and able to

accept guide bars up to 59”, the new saw is the ideal machine to tackle even the most demanding forestry jobs.

At the heart of the MS 881 is the STIHL 2-MIX engine that ensures the machine is the only chainsaw in its performance class that meets the strict requirements of the European Euro-5 (EU5) exhaust emission standard.

STIHL

Fleet Line Markers

Times have changed. So have tools. And our new Professional-X range is all the proof you need. It’s powered by the most technologically advanced, petrol-matching, Lithiumion battery system out there. A battery that’s built to last and engineered to power through the toughest tasks. And with an IP56 weatherproof rating, not even the heaviest downpour can stop you from getting the job done.

Our Professional-X range delivers the power of petrol, minus the petrol, with less fuss, less noise and zero emissions.

Phased Toro irrigation installation delivers results

Over the last four years Leighton Buzzard Golf Club has been phasing in a new Toro irrigation system and each time there’s a new installation the improvements are clear to see, says course manager, Paul Harris.

The club started discussions with Irritech and Reesink Turfcare four years ago and decided a phased installation plan would allow them to make improvements without major disruption to its members.

In November 2019, the final phase began. The new system, designed by Irritech and installed by LS Systems Ltd, consisted of brand new pipework and cabling, and 500 Toro Infinity sprinklers added across the greens, approaches, fairways and the larger tees, with T5 and T7 sprinklers on those remaining.

Plus, GAC Module was added, delivering high speed diagnostics to allow for more control, increased precision and to simplify maintenance.

The standard of the course, particularly on the fairways which weren’t irrigated before, has impressed the greenkeeping team. The Infinity sprinklers in particular are regarded as fantastic with a big bonus being that they are top accessible, so maintenance is easy and doesn’t disrupt play.

The biggest benefit is how the system has helped the team manage the care of the turf on a tricky sand-based course.

The club is looking forward to seeing the long-term results Toro irrigation will bring.

Green-tech launches a new watering solution for trees

Green-tech has announced the launch of a new product for the landscaping industry - the Tree Irrigator. The innovative Tree Irrigator is a slow-release watering bag for trees with a diameter of between 3cm and 20cm. It works by delivering water to the root system which then reduces the effects of dehydration or transplant shock.

Green-tech is the UKs leading supplier of landscaping materials with an impressive 16,000 products in its latest product catalogue. They have vast warehousing facilities in North Yorkshire; from where they offer world-wide delivery.

The Tree Irrigator bag is an incredibly simple, yet clever concept. It easily zips around the tree trunk and the bag is just filled with water. For trees with a wider girth diameter (10cm plus) users zip two bags together in what is known as a double bag set up. A single Tree Irrigator bag holds approximately 60 litres of water which is gradually released over 5 to 9 hours.

Green-tech’s Sales Director Richard Gill comments: “We are really excited by this product. It’s

incredibly simple, easy to install and inexpensive.

“What is different to other irrigation systems is that this can be installed ‘after’ the tree has been planted. It can also be removed and then reused on other trees. Our other irrigation systems are all for use underground so, I’m pleased to be able to offer our customers an alternative option.”

The Tree Irrigator saves time, water, effort and trees! It is expected to prove popular and is ideal for new trees planted in either shade or in an urban environment. Installation and fill take just minutes with no tools required. The system is designed to promote deep root growth with deep water saturation every fill.

Richard continues: “This type of tree irrigation technology is widely used overseas so I’m delighted to be able to include it in our product portfolio as an option for landscape gardeners, contractors and foresters.

“It is perfect for newly planted or established trees which are up to 20cm in diameter. Its noninvasive design will not harm the existing landscape. I can see it being a popular alternative for some of our customers.”

Green-tech

DALTEX Bespoke range adds new resin bound blends

To meet the increasing demand for resin bound surfacing, Derbyshire Specialist Aggregates, the UK manufacturer of DALTEX – the UK’s no 1 brand in Resin Bound - has expanded its successful DALTEX Bespoke range of Resin Bound aggregates.

Reflecting the latest consumer desire for silvers and greys for Resin Bound driveways, paths and patios, Ocean Grey and Gunmetal Grey have been launched to offer even more on-trend choice for properties of all ages and styles.

The DALTEX Bespoke range consists of 46 stunning blends – colours span the spectrum with everything covered from contemporary greys and silvers to warm golds and yellows,

welcoming russet browns to stylish ivory and creams. Samples of the DALTEX Bespoke range are available.

Managing Director Sam Buckley comments: “We continually research consumer trends, and these two additions are already proving to be incredibly popular. We understand that no two customers are ever the same and that’s why we provide the largest selection of Resin Bound colours in the UK.”

For newcomers interested in learning more, a free Covidfriendly online Resin Bound training course is available at resinboundtraining.com.

Derby Aggregates

The perfect permeable recycled aggregate

With site drainage considerations particularly crucial at this time of year, it is worth considering a permeable recycled aggregate alternative to keep your landscape and groundworks freedraining this season.

An effective site drainage component and cheaper than a primary equivalent, soil and aggregate supplier MCM’s 2/6mm permeable aggregate bedding layer helps grounds teams, builders and landscapers meet sustainability targets on site, reducing the drain on natural resources by opting for a secondary aggregate.

A bonus for the environment bottom lines.

Available direct from MCM as an underlayer for block paving and driveways, this recycled aggregate is ideal for landscaping projects as well as groundworks.

MCM 2/6mm Permeable Aggregate allows surface water to run off and escape through the sub-base and into the ground beneath. Its grading gives a balance between the sub-base layer’s stability and the free movement of water off, down and through.

This makes this recycled permeable aggregate the perfect base layer for sports pitches, paving, car parks and driveways.

MCM

R-VAN sets new performance standards

Rain Bird’s R-VAN rotary adjustable, full circle/strip nozzles set high standards in irrigation. Nine models are required for 45º to 360º coverage.

Nozzles are quickly hand adjusted for arc and radius.

By pushing down and turning the nozzle cap, the arc can be increased and by turning the radius adjustment dial, the throw distance is increased without a separate adjustment tool.

Precipitation rate of R-VAN nozzles is matched with the 5000 series rotors.

Long-distance watering is effectively increased within the same zone.

Precipatation rates are also matched across different types of R-VAN nozzles, making irrigation layouts and zoning easier.

Rain Bird

Reesink Turfcare

A True All Weather Jointing Solution

Raising the roof at Maggie’s Centre Leeds

Green-tech is incredibly proud to have supplied the landscaping materials for the new rooftop garden of the Maggie’s Centre Cancer Charity which is situated in the grounds of St. James’s University Hospital in Leeds.

The charity’s 26th UK centre was designed by awardwinning landscape designers Balston Aguis.

It was inspired by Yorkshire woodlands and features native English species of plants, alongside areas of evergreen to provide warmth in the winter months.

A well-established family run business with over 30 years’ experience installing and maintaining landscapes throughout the North-East, Scotland and Yorkshire; Green-tech has worked with Swinburne for many years supplying their projects across England and Scotland.

The outside space at Maggie’s Leeds is as important as the inside.

They ask their landscape architects to use plants that will add colour, scent and interest throughout the year. Leeds Maggie’s Centre is roofed by three overlapping gardens which step down and overhang to shelter communal areas.

The challenge was to span and enclose the level changes and reinstate the site’s greenery.

dumpy bags and gt Roof Drain which provides a lightweight continuous drainage layer across the roof structure.

It collects and stores water to irrigate the plants during low rainfall periods. 300 tonnes Green-tree 12mm premium top soil was supplied for the general landscaping areas, along with 44 tree anchoring kits, Mona irrigation pipes, compost and bark mulch.

Gardens and outdoor living spaces have come to play a more important feature, providing areas for entertaining family and friends and creating a haven for capturing a moment of peace and quiet.

With the rise in popularity of garden heaters, fire pits and chimenea’s, gardens are no longer relegated to the summer months but can be enjoyed all year round.

Geo-Fix® All Weather jointing compound has been formulated to work perfectly in all weather conditions, allowing you to create the outdoor living space of your dreams all year round.

Landscaping no longer has to stop in the colder months! GeoFix® All Weather has been used and trusted by professionals for over 25 years and with its unique features and properties, it’s easy to see why this marketleading brush-in sand is such a popular choice for all year, all weather jointing.

Suitable for use with all popular stone choices including slate, terracotta and granite, Geo-Fix®

All Weather is ready mixed and simply brushed into joints with minimal effort. Unlike mortar joints, once installed, Geo-Fix® All Weather is totally resistant to freeze-thaw cycles and will not crack or break out with frost. What’s more, GeoFix® All Weather forms a solid joint that resists weed and plant growth and is water permeable, allowing water to escape to prevent ponding.

Available in three beautiful colours – Mid Grey, Slate Grey and Natural Stone – Geo-Fix®

All Weather is available in a handy 14kg tub and is suitable for all joints over 5mm width and 15mm minimum depth.

To find out more about this true all weather jointing solution, please contact Geo-Fix ® by calling 01827 908510, emailing info@geo-fix.org.uk or visiting Instarmac.co.uk/geofix.

Keep up-to-date with the latest news from Geo-Fix® by following them on Twitter @ Geo-Fix, connecting with them on LinkedIn and following them on Instagram.

Instarmac

BALI registered contractor Swinburne Horticultural Services Ltd undertook the roof garden build and all the landscaping works.

Inspired by founder Maggie Keswick Jencks’ love of gardening, Maggie’s Centres work closely with the architect and interior and landscape designers from the very beginning of each project to make sure there is a strong connection between the outside and inside space.

In this way, the hospital does not lose its last green space – it is lifted up, filled with woodland plants and made more accessible and inviting.

Swinburne Horticultural Services installed the rood garden and created the landscape vision over several months. During this time Green-tech supplied 270m3 of Green-tree Roof garden intensive substrate which equates to 150

In total 23,000 bulbs and 17,000 plants were planted which all help to provide a tranquil environment; a calming space for all to take time out and enjoy the nature around them. Visitors are encouraged to participate in the ongoing care of these.

Green-tech Paving trends are changing.

A wildflower makeover for resort

Hampshire-based Wildflower Turf Ltd continue to partner with luxury lodge holiday specialists, Darwin Escapes, and have created a stunning wildflower haven at the newly opened Rivendale Lodge Retreat.

With conservation a key component of the resort’s development strategy, Wildflower Turf Ltd was commissioned by Landscape Architects and Environmental Consultants RPS Planning & Development to lend their extensive wildflower expertise to the redevelopment project.

Consideration of the natural setting was of upmost importance, and the addition of

extensive wildflower meadows around the site has significantly enhanced both the aesthetics and biodiversity credentials of the holiday park.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, during spring and summer of this year Wildflower Turf Ltd provided the project with 8,800m2 of a modified mix of their Landscape Wildflower Turf alongside a further 3,500m2 of a bespoke Wildflower Turf blend. The bespoke mix turf was carefully designed by the Landscape Architects in discussion with the Peak District National Park Authority ecology and landscape teams.

Wildflower Turf

New meadow designs from Pictorial Meadows

Autumn sees the launch of the 2021 Pictorial Meadows brochure, and with it the latest additions to their range of stunning designer meadows.

Each new mix has been in development for several years, carefully balancing the recipes for optimum germination and a

succesion of flowering across a longer season of interest.

New favourites include the new perennial mix ‘Moody Blues’, described as “a spellbinding mix of cool and elegant blues, mauves, and striking purples”.

Pictorial Meadows

Superior Dollar Spot resistance

Rigby Taylor has introduced a new 100% creeping bent (Agrostis stolonifera) mixture for superior control of Dollar Spot.

Flagstick is a new generation “super bent” cultivar with advanced turf qualities. The result of twenty years collaborative research with Michigan State University and Seed Research of Oregon across multiple sites, Flagstick was selected for superior resistance to Dollar Spot (Sclerotinia homeocarpa) and comparatively reduced inputs.

In addition to Dollar Spot, ‘’Flagstick has high disease tolerance to Anthracnose, Red Thread, Brown Patch, Pink Snow Mould and Take-All Patch.”

Other major benefits of this new mixture, is high seedling vigour and fast establishment, excellent turf quality with a fine leaf texture and, increased plant density & rapid tillering. This last benefit helps out-compete Poa annua ingression and blends well into established, lower input creeping bent. It is also tolerant of very close mowing down to 2.5mm for tournament play.

Along with other ‘R’ mixtures in the Rigby Taylor range, ‘Flagstick’ is pre-treated with Germin-8T. This unique liquid, potent seed coating maximises seedling development and establishments.

Containing a cocktail of specially penetrating surfactants, micronutrients and added mycorrhizae to supports plant health and the addition of trichoderma viride provides a support package that protects against damaging turf diseases at their early stage of development. For autumn sowing, the benefit of cool weather colour retention helps eliminate the appearance of winter stress.

Flagstick is an ideal introduction to seeding of greens, tees and fairways to improve disease tolerance, particularly Dollar Spot, the overseeding into creeping and browntop bent swards to improve genetic strength & diversity and also for turf production.

Available in 10 kg packs, Flagstick has a sowing rate of 10g per sq.m and for over-sowing just 5g per sq.m.

Rigby Taylor

Nothing compares to MM seed

Andy Richards, grounds manager at Haileybury - an independent co-educational boarding and day school, insists that grass seed is the first place to start in producing the best possible sports pitches and he believes that nothing compares to Limagrain’s MM brand of grass seed. Andy was renowned for producing sports pitches of the highest quality in his previous role at Shrewsbury School and after recently celebrating his one-year anniversary at Haileybury, he is hoping to raise the bar even further in his new role.

“I introduced Limagrain’s MM50 and MM60 seed mixtures at Shrewsbury six years ago and they made a huge difference to the pitches,” he said. “I recommended the MM range to so many other schools and clubs across the country from Wales to the South Coast because it is so reliable, and the recovery rate is better than anything I have ever used.

“I’m now using the mixtures here at Haileybury and I’m hoping that with a bit of time, we can match those highly regarded pitches at Shrewsbury and go one step further – in fact I’m confident that we can better them eventually.”

Introducing Limagrain MM seed was one of Andy’s first actions when he took the reins at Haileybury and although he had every faith in the mixtures, it was not plain sailing to start with.

“In the time that I’ve been here, we have fraise mowed all five cricket squares, taken off 20mm of thatch and organic matter, and re-seeded with Limagrain’s MM50. The results were very good; the grass was healthy, they played well, the Director of Cricket was pleased with them and aesthetically they looked brilliant. In my mind MM50 is the best seed mix for cricket and fine turf, there is nothing else that can touch it or even compare to it.”

Limagrain

ICL’s Riptide makes an impact

ICL’s Riptide, the no1 ranked creeping bentgrass, has made an impact at Trentham Golf Club, according to Course Manager, Ed Stant.

Exclusive to ICL, Riptide is the no1 ranked creeping bentgrass variety on the STRI lists. It is ideal for seeding new areas or when used for interseeding as part of a course renovation programme.

This fine-leaved, denselyshooting, creeping bentgrass establishes quickly, especially in spring, growing upright but low to the ground with high tiller shoot density and keeping its bright mid-green colour right through autumn and winter.

In fact, Riptide, has gained a wide following throughout Europe and has been adopted by several UK courses due to its adaptability in a wide range of growing conditions.

Riptide responds very well to lower nutritional inputs and less frequent watering, potentially significantly reducing costs involved in a higher maintenance programme and offering a more sustainable approach; less fertilizer, fungicide, scarification and verti-cutting.

Riptide certainly provides the opportunity to create excellent greens surface with lower inputs of fertilization and disease management. High tolerance against Michrodochium patch and Dollar spot reduces the frequency for fungicide applications.

ICL

Johnsons Lawn Seed set to strengthen its presence

A resurgence of interest in domestic lawns coupled with the stay-at-home-culture arising from the Covid-19 pandemic is set to drive sales of lawn seed via DIY and hardware channels in 2021, according to Johnsons Lawn Seed – the UK’s oldest grass seed supplier.

With Covid cases on the rise across the UK and a new three-tier system of lockdowns coming into operation, hardware outlets have so far benefitted from being classified as essential retail if the toughest restrictions are brought back into force –allowing consumers to readily access lawn care products if other outlets are forced to close.

Johnsons Lawn Seed, which is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year, says the 2020 season has ignited sales of lawn seed as consumers who have been unable to travel abroad looked to improve their outdoor spaces, focusing on features such as lawns that are proven to enhance biodiversity, reduce flash flooding and keep temperatures cool in summer.

As lockdown was eased, Johnsons Lawn Seed’s sales ran at five times their usual volumes during June and July, while the company’s leading Tuffgrass and Quick Lawn brands witnessed year-to-date increases of 35% and 30% respectively.

The stand out success this summer has been Johnsons’ Shady Place Lawn Seed, which experienced a sales rise of 60%.

Rigby Taylor Introduce first four cultivar, tetraploid perennial ryegrass blend

root mass, increasing drought tolerance and tensile strength.

The ability to perform in colder temperatures and survive periods of heat and drought makes tetraploids indispensable. Four cultivars are now available in the 100% tetraploid ryegrass blend 4Tetra, the fundamental choice for turf performance and recovery throughout the seasons.

The blend: 4Tetra Germin-8T treated

• 25% Fabian tetraploid perennial ryegrass

• 25% Tetrastar tetraploid perennial ryegrass

25% Tetragreen tetraploid perennial ryegrass

Germin-8T pre-treated seed is available on all the ‘R’ range of Rigby Taylor seeds. This unique liquid, potent seed coating maximises seedling development and establishments.

Containing a cocktail of specially penetrating surfactants, micronutrients and added mycorrhizae to supports plant health the addition of trichoderma viride provides a support package that protects against damaging turf diseases at their early stage of development.

Changes in climatic conditions are proving increasingly challenging for turf maintenance. In recent times weather patterns have fluctuated from one extreme to the other.

Late frosts, snow or drought in spring, summer heatwaves accompanied by prolonged drought and periods of intense rainfall are all becoming commonplace.

Tetraploid perennial ryegrass has double the number of chromosomes (4n) compared with diploid perennial ryegrass, resulting in high vigour, extremely stress tolerant plants. One of the main benefits, increased cellular chloroplast, boosts chlorophyll production to aid energy absorption and processing.

The outcome is a robust, hardwearing, healthier plant that can better withstand climatic fluctuations and has a high level of Leaf Spot tolerance. Tetraploids also germinate and grow in colder temperatures down to 40 ° C and produce a stronger, deeper, denser

• 25% Tetragame tetraploid perennial ryegrass

Rigby Taylor

Johnsons Lawn Seeds

Queen’s will rock you

With a similar business ethic in regards to corporate responsibility and sustainability, it was a pleasure for eibe to work on the recent Queen’s Avenue Play Area in conjunction with Grainger plc, the UK’s largest listed residential landlord.

A market leader in the UK build to rent and private rented sector, Grainger now has offices in London, Newcastle, Birmingham and Manchester.

It was Commercial Development Manager, Carla Norton, that first contacted eibe Play about a new venture in Aldershot, Hampshire. Several months later and Queen’s

Avenue was officially opened last week and the £20,000 project is already attracting a lot of attention from local residents.

The brightly coloured playspace features a Kamet Unit from our ecorino range, as well as Lily Jump Pads, Toddler Swings and a Satellite Carousel.

The Kamet is one of our most popular products for smaller children; with its step climb, play panels and mini crawling tunnel, it is packed full of play value and can accommodate lots of children at the same time, offering great value for money.

eibe

Play area gets seal of approval from residents

Wicksteed was awarded a tender for Amey Defence Services who were updating some of their sites in the Midlands area.

The site at Essex Green was a brand new play area, the space was ideal as it was a large tarmac area which allowed Wicksteed to chase cut wet pour pads into the tarmac and use more of the budget on equipment rather than spending on groundworks.

Wicksteed split the site into toddler and junior areas – the toddler area was fenced and equipment was themed in red and yellow colours. The main feature is a 5 tower multi-play unit from the Nursery Rhymes range with a number of play features coming off each tower.

Other equipment in this area includes the inclusive Swirl roundabout, springies, activity panels and swing with one cradle seat and one child/adult seat.

Wicksteed utilised the tarmac area between the wet pour pads

for colourful ground graphics which are fun and educational.

A challenging activity trail links the toddler area to the junior area. The junior area is themed blue and yellow with a large Tree Top Towers multi-play unit as the centrepiece. The unit includes a tube slide (always a favourite with the children!), climbing wall, activity net and other play features.

The area is packed with exciting and dynamic equipment such as a Spin-A-Bounce, Cableway, basket seat swing and flat seat swing. On the grassed area to the side of the play equipment is a new goal end with basketball hoop and a large pad of artificial grass in front of the goalmouth.

The response from residents has been fantastic to go from nothing to a play area like this. The play area is busy every day and Amey have been delighted with the range and quality of equipment.

Wicksteed

New Wriggler is a balancing act at Kingsley Walk

Kingsley Walk neighbourhood play area has become the first playground in the UK to install Sutcliffe Play’s new Wriggler Platform Steps.

The Kingsley Walk neighbourhood play area in Cambridge was tired and worn after years of use by the local community and in need of an update to encourage children back to playing there together once again.

The old toddler equipment was removed and replaced with items that created opportunities for playing and socialising together. New surfacing was installed and included a bright new Hop Scotch graphic.

The Spider unit from Sutcliffe Play’s popular Toddlerzone + range was the main feature unit chosen for the playground and the new Wriggler Platform steps adds an area of balancing activities and seating.

Designed for ‘tiddlers’ age range 2 to 5, Wrigglers are essentially informal seats when placed in

isolation and can be used as balancing elements when placed in groups.

Set at different heights the platforms take the form of a caterpillar with a smiling face at each end with the detailed features routed in to the HPL top surface doubling as a grip for children’s feet. The caterpillar sits really well with the Toddlerzone+ range as they all have a natural theme to them.

Carol Dunn, Open Spaces & Facilities Support Officer at East Cambridgeshire District Council commented: “The existing neighbourhood play area was old and tired and was not being used with a feeling of neglect. Through the tender process and evaluation, Sutcliffe was chosen as a successful partner.

“The professional approach and advice from the initial design stage through to finished installation has been hassle-free.”

THE UK’S BIGGEST OUTDOOR SPORTS & GROUNDS TRADE SHOW

Sutcliffe Play

Hatfield House goes green

Makita’s outstanding outdoor offer

Makita’s latest product promotion gives customers the chance to redeem FREE 5.0Ah 18V LXT batteries with the purchase of selected RT, RTE and PG2 cordless garden machinery models.

Leading power tool and garden machinery manufacturer Makita UK is offering end users the chance to redeem one of its leading LXT lithium-ion batteries when they purchase selected LXT 18V RT and RTE garden machines until 31st December 2020.

Customers that purchase selected Twin 18V PG2 garden machines between these

dates can receive two LXT batteries. Included in the offer is a selection of LXT blowers, hedge trimmers, chainsaws and a brushless split-shaft power unit.

If a qualifying item is purchased, customers will have 28 days to register a redemption claim for their free 5.0Ah LXT battery via a dedicated microsite by providing proof of purchase.

Once the application is confirmed, their free gift will arrive within 30 days.

Hertfordshire’s

Since the first demo, the estate’s collection of Husqvarna Battery Series has continued to grow, with his product highlights including the 535iXP chainsaw, 520iHD70 hedge cutter, 530iPT5 telescopic

The vast areas of formal lawns are also maintained with multiple Husqvarna Automower. With a team of ten employees and 20 volunteers, the estate was keen to introduce a new way of working to the gardeners.

Husqvarna

Zero deposit and nothing to pay until March 2021

Pellenc, distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK, is taking flexible finance to a new level by offering zero deposit and nothing to pay until March 2021.

Customers purchasing the Pellenc Landscape Pack, which consists of three market leading ULiB 1200 batteries, Excelion 2000 cow handle brushcutter, Rasion Easy pedestrian mower, Helion 2 Compact hedge strimmer and Airion 3 leaf blower, can take advantage of delivery now and not paying anything until March 2021, with weekly payments at just £66.51 and a competitive APR of just 5.95% over three years.

Over the three-year finance period it is also estimated that users could save over £10,000 compared to the use of petrolpowered equivalent tools.

All Pellenc batteries come complete with a comprehensive market leading four-year warranty and all tools with a commercial three-year warranty.

The new Pellenc finance option is available until 31 March 2021, subject to status and only available in the UK and Ireland through Etesia UK’s finance partner Golf Finance.

Etesia

At

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- SLOPES ALL IN ONE MOWER

book a demo today!

Makita

Hatfield House thanks battery power for helping maintain its extensive grounds, following their impressive results with Husqvarna Battery Series, after making a switch to the fuel-alternative.

pole saw, 520iHT4 telescopic hedge cutter, 525iB handheld blower and the 535iRXT and 520iLX brush cutters.

Honda electrifies the groundscare market

Honda entered the batterypowered lawn & garden segment in 2012 in response to global demand for cleaner products and it continues to expand in the segment at speed.

Cordless and robot lawnmowers accounted for 17.8% of powered lawnmower sales across Europe in 2017, rising to 25.4% in 2018.

Furthermore, from 2014 to 2018 cordless sales increased by an average of 26.9% YoY with battery-powered sales projected to comprise 42% of the “Powered Lawn Mower” segment by 2025.

Honda subjected its cordless lawnmowers and handheld tools to the same quality control measures as their petrol

counterparts to ensure they perform on par and bring the same features and functionality professional users expect from a Honda power tool. Better yet, they run quieter, at lower costs and are emission-free.

The self-drive izy-ON HRG 466 XB cordless lawnmower’s high-quality steel deck conceals a 1.8Kwh brushless motor of a fanless design that maximises performance and minimises noise.

Clever Hall-sensing technology adjusts the battery current draw to maintain the cutting blade (46cm) RPM under varying loads, caused by different grass heights, to deliver a consistent lawn finish. The lawnmower can cover up to 730m² and features an on/off mulching function.

Honda offers three Cordless handheld power tools – a brushcutter, leaf blower and hedgetrimmer – built around the Universal Battery System that allows one of three batteries, including a

9Ah model designed for prousers, to be swapped between the cordless lawnmowers and handled power tools.

The handheld tools’ ergonomic-led design combines operator comfort with impressive performance. The leaf blower’s nosedown balance and soft-grip touchpoints offer easy manoeuvrability, aided by the battery’s remote placement on the user by way of an adjustable belt. Similarly, the brushcutter comes with a harness, while the hedgetrimmer has a rotating rear handle that accommodates natural movements.

Honda’s robotic lawnmower range (Miimo) is topped by the HRM 3000. Individually, the robot lawnmower can tackle spaces up to 4000m², however using the new Multi Miimo system fleets of HRM 3000s can be controlled centrally, enabling a team of them to tackle areas as large three football pitches.

Honda

Get more from Raymo

More than ever before contractors are being asked to meet higher standards when it comes noise and emissions.

By taking the operator off the machine and making it remote control, the Raymo mower with wide 104cm (41”) deck can give unrivalled run times from its Lithium battery pack.

Thanks to the low centre of gravity the Raymo remote controlled mower can tackle slopes up to 35 degrees, with the operator working safely at a distance.

By removing the operator from working on the machine it also eliminates any damaging vibration caused from spending long periods of time each day mowing.

The 4WD offers superior traction no matter what

grass is being cut with a neat finish thanks to its easy manoeuvrability and zero turning circles, allowing the operator to be a productive as possible.

The low height of the mower at only 51cm (20”) also means it can tidily cut under benches or around low bushes and trees.

The Raymo electric, zeroemission, remote controlled mower is a unique product that, with the ability to swap power packs, offers you a versatile multi-use mower.

Whether you need to cut grass in noise sensitive areas, gain access under low objects, or need to meet the needs of the customer concerns of carbon emissions, this mower will exceed your expectations.

ISEKI

INFINICUT and UltraGroomer double delivers quality courts

Having seen them in action on the world-famous Wimbledon courts, The Lensbury Club in Middlesex are one of a growing list of clubs taking delivery of an INFINICUT mower for use on their grass tennis courts.

Along with a set of UltraGroomer cassettes from the TMSystem, Grounds and Gardens Manager Peter Craig says the improvements in the quality and appearance of the six courts hasn’t gone unnoticed by the club’s members.

Following an 18-year term at the Hurlingham Club - during which, he started looking into the INFINICUT - Peter re-joined The Lensbury in 2018.

“We started to see some famous venues using the INFINICUT mowers and I was lucky enough to see them in action first-hand on the courts at Wimbledon which only further sparked my interest,” he explains.

“When I returned to The Lensbury, I organised for the team to have a demonstration and they loved it straight from the off.” They became the proud owners of a 22” Fixed Head INFINICUT shortly after its launch at the end of 2018.

“It gives such a fantastic quality of cut and finish – the definition

of stripe is excellent and the HOC and bedknife adjustment systems could not be simpler. The fact that it’s battery powered and therefore more environmentally friendly has always been a major plus-point for me; but even more so now, with the courts at The Lensbury located very close to a residential road.

“In the past, this meant we were unable to use machinery before 8am but, because the INFINICUT is so quiet in operation, we can get out and mow at 7am. This means we effectively gain five additional working hours a week, where necessary.”

Recently, the club also purchased a set of UltraGroomer cassettes from the TMSystem range for early and in-season verti-cutting.

Cub Cadet

New TYM tractors for Crystal Palace stadium and training rounds

In its biggest deal with distributor Reesink Turfcare yet, Crystal Palace Football Club has chosen TYM tractors for grounds maintenance at both its Selhurst Park stadium and training grounds in Bromley, South East London.

The deal, which includes Toro machinery, comes as the club works toward becoming one of the country’s leading academies.

As part of this, the club has invested in its Academy site, expanding its football facilities to include a full-sized pitch and nine additional pitches of varying sizes.

Bruce Elliot, head of grounds and estates, explains: “The

club is investing a lot in its facilities at the moment, with a new stand being built at the stadium and the academy training ground expanding.

It made sense, therefore, that with this development and improvement of the facilities, we would upgrade and expand our turfcare machinery, too.

“We first added Toro and TYM to our fleet in 2016 and have been consistently impressed by the work they’ve done, so we decided to make our biggest purchase yet at the end of last year,” continues Bruce.

“We needed to replace some older machines at the academy and we also wanted to expand

the fleet at our main training ground and stadium.”

And it’s certainly a large investment, with the club having purchased a TYM T293 tractor and the Toro ProCore 648 for the stadium and TYM T393 tractor, alongside two Greensmaster TriFlex Hybrid 3420 mowers and a tractormounted ProCore 864 which will be used on the T393 for aeration at the main training ground.

A Toro Reelmaster 3575-D mower and Workman MDX utility vehicle for the academy grounds are included in the deal.

Reesink Turfcare

Toro Dingo – more work in less time

The Toro Dingo Compact Tool Carrier machines are lightweight and manoeuvrable, yet packed with unmatched strength in a compact package for the ultimate working advantage.

Delivering durability and reliability that professionals trust, combined with powerful performance and versatility.

Ideal for operators who are frequently switching tasks, just switch out the attachments rather than change machine, saving you time.

The ability to use a variety of attachments makes the range more cost-effective too. Genuine Toro attachments are designed specifically to be used for the Dingo, offering the best assurance for a long life and peak performance.

Attachments

filler, stump grinder and a high-speed trencher.

The Dingo range comes in three models, the TX427,

Cash from your Kubota

Purchasers of Kubota’s popular ST Series compact tractors will get a great deal more than they bargained for with £1000 cashback. The promotion is also valid in the Republic of Ireland where purchasers get €1000 back.

Powerful, lightweight and manoeuvrable, the 34, 37 and 40hp tractor range also brings Kubota’s legendary reliability, outstanding economy and superb performance.

With the proven E-TCVS Kubota engine up front, the ST features a

versatile three-range hydrostatic transmission, and with Kubota’s renowned Bi-speed turn, lift capacity of 1150kg and independent mid- and rearpto this workhorse is a great match for the most productive maintenance implements.

In addition to Kubota’s standard two-year warranty, the ST series can also be protected by Kubota Care, a five-year extended warranty.

Kubota

Steelway Protect offer a range of asset protection solutions for the landscaping industry

• Provide optimum security.

• Easy and fast installation.

• Designed and built to your specific requirements.

• All products designed are certified to a minimum LPS1175 SR3 rating Contact us now: www.steelway.co.uk/protect Tel: 0121 521 4500 | protect@steelway.co.uk

are easy to fit with the Toro ® Quick Attach System, which helps users change jobs in seconds. Some attachments include: the trench

TX525 and TX1000 and are all available in either a narrow or wide track.

Hayter Toro

A workhorse with extra for Autumn

As the main playing season comes to an end and maintenance plans and renovation works are put into place, your fleet needs to be ready to pull its weight as conditions and work gets tough.

This is when TYM’s T393 tractor really deserves its shed status. At the bare minimum, you will be repairing the turf from the stress of summer and a lot of play and preparing it for the tough winter conditions ahead.

There will be aeration programmes, hollow coring, scarifying, topdressing, vertidraining, spiking and perhaps construction work, drainage installations and building tees and bunkers, too.

And while all this is going on, the weather can be wet and the last thing you want to do is

damage the turf as you move equipment and heavy loads across it. This is what makes the T393 the perfect compact workhorse for this time of year.

It’s strong and capable, but light and nimble to ensure it doesn’t create more clear up work by being out and about over the course. Its 39hp Yanmar engine has two transmission options of either 12x12 speed manual with dash mounted shuttle lever or a three range HST transmission.

It has one of the highest lift capabilities in its class at 1200kg and one of the highest hydraulic flow rates with a maximum output of 42 litres per minute, making it suitable for use with a wide range of hydraulically driven attachments.

Council delivering improved green spaces for residents

Local Authorities in the UK have been dealing with government austerity cuts for many years. Despite these challenges, some local authorities such as Blackpool Council have seen major achievements in improving local amenities.

In 2019, Blackpool’s Stanley Park, was awarded Best UK Park by Fields in Trust, a UKwide charity that safeguards recreational spaces. With a local population of almost 160,000 and a total green amenity area of around 150 hectares, maintenance team at Blackpool Council take great pride in keeping local amenities in tip-top condition.

Blackpool’s Lead Operations Supervisor for Grounds Maintenance is Nick Horner. “Our responsibility as a grounds maintenance team includes, local parks, sports facilities, the nature reserve, the local airport, schools, verges and green open spaces - including all the greens on Blackpool’s promenade,” explained Nick.

With a team of twenty six grounds maintenance professionals Nick and his team are kept busy. They have learned over the years, which equipment works and which costs the council time and money.

Tasos Lambrou, an operator with Blackpool Council explained, “The difference between using cylinders and the Major TDR mower is night and day cost wise. The developments to rotary machines over the years means that they cut as good as a cylinder.”

Added Nick, “On the nature reserve and conservation areas, there are mandatory requirements in how we cut and clear areas - but the Major TDR, gives us so much operational flexibility, with very a low cost of operation, that we can use it in any type of amenity area.”

There has been a significant increase in people’s use of their local parks during the coronavirus pandemic. Tasos Lambrou notes the pleasure that local children get from the improved sports pitches. “It’s great to see the kids turn up every week. When the goals are up and the pitches are marked out, it looks out of this world,” he enthused.

“I’d go so far to say that the Major TDR roller mower have helped us at Blackpool to provide a far better amenity for our residents, with a lower cost of operation and, with a longer working life,” continued Nick. “That has to be a significant benefit to our community.”

Secure kiosks for storage and theft prevention

Thefts of machinery is on the rise, costing businesses and private owners millions of pounds in the last year.

Ensuring that suitable security measures are in place to protect owners property is essential to reduce the risk of further thefts.

Steel Security Kiosks and enclosures provide optimum security combined with easy and fast installation.

The design of these units is increasingly being used to store high value equipment and vehicles and with its hidden ventilation systems reduces condensation effectively storing your equipment in optimum conditions.

Steelway’s SR4 rated kiosks can be designed and built to your specific requirements, should you need to secure one or several vehicles that may require single or a double door entrance with internal or external fixings.

A recent example of a project Steelway completed, was the manufacturing of a modular bespoke LPS 1175:SR4 Plywood Lined kiosk for the storage of a £17,000 KUBOTA Mini Tractor.

This was a tailor-made solution for the protection of the vehicle.

This type of unit is also an ideal solution for the protection of motor cycles and high-end bicycles.

All products designed are certified to LPS1175 SR4 rating, which provides resistance to experienced determined attempts at forced entry using a wide range of hand tools and battery power tools, with a disregard for noise created.

The Maximum attack time is 10 minutes and maximum attack duration would be 30 minutes.

Wet or dry grass, long or short, collect or mulch, the PH 1250 and PH 1500 models take it all in their stride.

And it’s that flexibility that sets the Profihopper apart from the crowd.

The sharpened wing blades on the horizontal SmartCut rotor cleanly cut and shred the grass before conveying it via the cross auger on to that unique second vertical auger to be packed into the collection hopper - meaning less time emptying and more time mowing. To add to that versatility, the sward is rolled after cutting and scarifying comes as standard.

The more than adequate power is provided by engines that are already Stage V Exhaust emission compliant and require no AdBlue.

Don’t compromise - choose the machine that comes with more compaction built-in for maximum work rates and less emptying.

Contact the Amazone Team on: 01302 755 725.

Major Equipment

Steelway

Reesink Turfcare

The new Reform Muli mid-range

This resulted in vehicles with a consistent focus on versatility, safety, comfort and both user and environmental issues. The new models combine power with a light footprint and excellent slope capability and quick-change attachments turn the Muli into a compact, versatile machine.”

Four fully-featured attachment points (main frame, front linkage, platform frame, rear linkage/trailer hitch) offer comprehensive multifunctionality for different applications.

TYM tractor still making magic six months on

Reform Werke have announced the arrival of the new powerful lightweight mid-range Muli transporter T7X, T8X and T8X pro. Simon Richard, UK Agent for the Reform specialist tractor range comments:

“Improving a tried and tested product even further is always a special challenge, but for the development of the new T7 X, T8 X and T8 X pro models, a clear focus was placed on customer requirements.

The adjustable suspension and the quick-release system with automatic PTO centring, in combination with the Reform built-on self-loading trailer, allow fast swapping of bodies.

Simon Richard

Gathurst Golf Club invests in brand new fleet

The team realised that a sizeable investment in an entirely new fleet was essential.

Earlier this year Douglas and Alex Chalmers, Countryside’s TYM competition winners, compared the T194 tractor they won for the year to a fairytale: “It’s a bit like Goldilocks. Not too big, not too small, but just right.” And six months on, it’s still making magic.

Learning Fields, a not-for-profit centre of wellbeing based at Nag’s Head Farm in Cumbria, has not been operating this year, but that doesn’t mean the

T194 tractor hasn’t been put to good use on the farm!

“We use the tractor around three times a week, and once it gets started up it doesn’t stay idle for long,” says Douglas, director of the business. “It’s been instrumental in getting jobs done around the farm and we would have really struggled without it.

“All the tractor’s controls fall easily to either hand, and

are light and easy to operate. Plus, it allows us to complete tasks that we just couldn’t do before. But the biggest bonus is definitely its size.”

Part of the TYM compact utility range, the T194 combines the practicality of a smaller tractor, weighing in at just 650kg, with enough power to pack a punch - thanks to its 19hp three cylinder Yanmar engine.

Reesink Turfcare

Gathurst Golf Club have invested in a brand-new fleet of machinery with a retail value of circa £200k to futureproof the club.

The prestigious 18-hole parkland golf course, which boasts a variation of hole designs and superb putting surfaces to challenge golfers of all abilities, is a private members-owned club located in Shevington, Wigan.

The club’s ultimate priority is to provide a highly professional course to enhance the enjoyment of all its members.

The club’s ageing fleet, with machines that were up to 20 years old, had started to become both problematic and costly and were failing to deliver the standard required.

The club trialled a range of products from leading manufacturers Baroness and Kubota and the Greens team instantly saw the great results, with the machines staying on cut for longer and giving a precise finish, which is so important for maintaining the image of the course.

The club was particularly impressed with the results from the Baroness LM2700 Fairway Mower, as the ability to switch from two to four-wheel drive offers the means to cut the entire fairway without any wheel spin, particularly on the tricky 9th hole.

GGM Groundscare

New synthetic surface requires Redexim RTC

Bishopsgate School in Surrey have recently taken delivery of a Redexim RTC brush unit to keep on top of the maintenance of a brand new artificial surface, opened for use this September.

With a high wear pattern of both pupil and community usage, the RTC will become the foundation of the ongoing maintenance programme –keeping the surface looking and playing at its best.

The RTC’s tractor and brush combination gives the user complete control over the process and the pressure applied during operation.

The brushes can be lifted to allow storage and access through gaps as narrow as 90cm, though when folded out the unit will cover an impressive 200cm in one pass.

Charterhouse Turf Machinery

Kasco helps to capture the perfect shot

Waterton Park Hotel, in West Yorkshire, has recently benefited from a set of new decorative Kasco water fountains which were supplied by Water Garden UK.

The lakeside setting has recently been aesthetically enhanced by the installation of two Kasco 4400EJF decorative fountains with Redwood Nozzles.

The Kasco 1HP 4400EJF decorative fountains are a perfect way to beautify any larger pond or water-garden. The fountains have recently been improved through the enhancement of the housing, impeller and nozzles to create an even better product.

Both flow rate and pattern size have been improved without increasing amp draw. This dramatically improves aesthetic appeal without increasing operating costs or fountain pricing. In addition, assembly, as well as nozzle changes are faster and easier.

This versatile fountain comes with six interchangeable nozzle heads, giving you the option to choose and change the spray pattern as you wish. There are also optional lighting packages available.

The Kasco range of products are extremely popular with hotels like Waterton Park and also with theme parks, stately homes, country parks, or other venues

Double success for River Tyne Hogweed Eradication Programme

The River Tyne Hogweed Eradication Programme was declared winner of the Scottish Helping it Happen Awards run by Scottish Land and Estates.

Receiving recognition in the Enhancing our Environment category, the project was supported by Bayer and has succeeded in eradicating any flowering plants of giant hogweed over 48 miles of the banks of the River Tyne and its tributaries for the second year running.

The project has involved intensive monitoring. As soon as a plant is ‘spotted’, the landowners can pinpoint the offending weed and control it, either with the use of Roundup or a spade.

Colin Mumford, Bayer technical manager says both the non-native giant hogweed and Japanese

knotweed can have a severe knock-on effect to the entire food chain and ecosystem, by rapidly reproducing and taking over land to the detriment of native flora and fauna, so it’s vital to do everything possible to eliminate these damaging species.

“Bayer are really pleased to be able to support this successful project, which has been driven by volunteers and landowners who are certainly worthy of this award. We’re keen to continue to support where we can, so these weeds that are damaging our environment can be tackled and kept under control,” he explains.

Colin adds that these invasive species are a rising cause for concern, so it’s important projects like this take place around the UK to help eradicate these problematic weeds.

Kioti sets up new home

As part of the continued growth and development of Kioti UK Ltd, the importer for Kioti compact tractors, UTVs and zero turn mowers, the company has moved to a new single location.

The new location is centrally located, just outside St Neots, Cambridgeshire, on a spacious farm based industrial estate.

Patrick Desmond the General Manager said: “This represents an exciting step forward in the evolution of Kioti UK.

Despite the trying circumstances of 2020 the Kioti products have sold well in ever increasing numbers.

“This location is ideal for us and has space available allowing us to grow further in the coming years.

“We look forward to being able to give to our customers old, new and future an increased level of service.”

Bayer

looking for a stand-out water feature. As importers of the Kasco brand, KAR UK has seen a huge increase in the demand for

the products and so too has Water Garden UK. KAR UK