Landscape & Amenity Product Update May 2022

Report calls for green jobs to be more accessible and achievable

job’ if we are ever going to future-proof the economy and the environment.

The charity has put forward recommendations to sectors with the that have the opportunity to influence and inspire the necessary change needed, including central and local government and employment and education bodies, to make green jobs both a viable and vital option.

A new report from Groundwork sets out how investment in green skills and green job creation will not only help achieve the UK’s net zero ambitions but can also be the stimulus for building pride of place and tackling longterm unemployment.

The ‘Growing Green Careers’ report makes the case for supporting more entry-level pathways into green jobs across multiple sectors – from energy generation to nature recovery –as well as embracing the notion that every job ‘has to be a green

The report refl ects on the fact that the environmental sector is one of the least diverse in the economy and calls on employers to diversify their workforce, both to access a wider pool of talent and also engage under-represented groups in the conversation about how to protect and improve the environment.

Learning LIVE 2022 –call for papers

Organisers of SALTEX are looking for the best speakers in the grounds management industry to showcase their knowledge at the show, which will take place at the NEC, Birmingham on 2 and 3 November 2022.

Learning LIVE, SALTEX’s all-encompassing education programme, provides advice, insight and real solutions to the biggest issues that the grounds management industry cares about most. Organisers aim for the seminar programme at SALTEX to be engaging, informative and educational for attendees.

Each proposal will be evaluated and those that most closely match the needs of the attendees will be selected.

Care for your grass in multiple ways, all in one cost-effective machine.

British equipment suited to all budgets and pitch sizes.

Contact us today for a free 80 page brochure

The report also urges both those in a position of power to harness the passion and commitment of young people when it comes tackling environmental issues, by offering training and education that tangibly leads to a worthwhile career in the green sector. In a report published by Groundwork last year, ‘Youth in a Changing Climate’ that asked young people about their green job aspirations, only 1 in 5 young people believe they are listened to when it comes to decisions on climate change and the environment, 92% felt that tackling climate change and protecting the environment is important to them personally.

Graham Duxbury, Groundwork’s UK Chief Executive, said: “In the face of a climate crisis and a cost of living crisis we need to focus on those solutions that

achieve a just transition to a low carbon future. Investing now in the jobs and skills we need to build a circular economy, keep fossil fuels in the ground and help nature recover will accelerate this transition while also lifting more people out of poverty.

“We also need to demonstrate that green jobs are relevant and accessible to everyone – the environmental sector is much less diverse than others, green careers guidance is lacking and young people find it difficult to get their foot on the ladder. Sustainability should sit alongside maths, English and IT as a core skill and we need more consistent, long-term policymaking to give environmental employers the confidence to grow their workforce.”

Groundwork Enquiry 1

Sector unites for major research

The Landscape Institute has launched its Landscape Skills and Workforce Survey, a new major piece of research which will provide new insights into the economic structures and makeup of the landscape industry.

Metro Dynamics have been appointed to support on the delivery of the survey.

Working alongside partners British Association of Landscape Industries, Historic England, Historic Environment Scotland, Locri, Natural England, Natural Resource Wales, NatureScot, and the Northern Ireland Department for Communities, this pivotal project will produce a rich and informative evidence base, covering the landscape

industry (and its neighbouring professions) across the UK, in both the public and private sectors.

“In order to achieve our common aims including but not limited to, nature recovery and creating climate resilient landscapes, we need evidence,” said Chris Bolton, Principal Specialist for Landscape – Natural England (Project Partner).

“By understanding the landscape sector, how we can work collaboratively and what landscape resources, expertise and research is available, we can fill these evidence gaps.”

The Landscape Institute Enquiry 3

There continues to be growing evidence of the positive economic, social, health and wellbeing benefits our industry is directly responsible for, yet very little in the way of Government-level support and investment. Ministers continue to acknowledge the significant and important role of parks and green spaces during the pandemic, for example, and we are seeing some funding allocated to grass roots sports to improve facilities.

However, the soundbites remain fairly hollow and the funding and grants remain a drop in the ocean compared to the major impacts the industry on the daily life of the UK. There is also a damaging gap between the rhetoric and reality, which is why we get reports like the one from Groundwork UK highlighting the serious concerns that the skills, training and workforce needed to continue to drive the “green economy” forward are simply not there and not enough is being done to address these challenges. The lobbying needs to continue at a senior level in Government. At a time when “levelling up” is high on the agenda, the need to improve the standing of our industry, increase long-term investment and secure proper recognition for the massive impact it has on the UK is greater than ever.

This month we have our regular Professional Groundscare supplement, another world class sector that has a global impact along with the rest of the wider industry. We focus on Grass Cutting Machinery and Brushcutters, as well as spotlight the continuing growth and importance of technology to the sector with a look at Battery Power.

Elsewhere we look at Hard & Soft Landscaping and the usual industry news, opinions, product launches and case studies. We hope you have a good month and

Forestry Commission launches ground-breaking apprenticeship programme

A first-of-its-kind apprenticeship initiative to foster a growing, highly skilled and more diverse workforce within the forestry sector has been opened.

The Development Woodland Officer programme offers a three-year, paid development opportunity for passionate individuals looking to kickstart their careers in forestry. Jointly led by the Forestry Commission, the University of Cumbria and the Institute of Chartered Foresters, the programme marks the first time that a degree-level forestry apprenticeship has been offered in the UK.

The initiative aims to grow, upskill, and diversify the forestry sector workforce. Expanding long-term workforce capacity will help to deliver the Government’s tree planting and woodland creation ambitions over the coming years as we build back greener.

Development Woodland Officers will benefit from academic studies in forestry management at the University of Cumbria, practical experience in Forestry Commission area teams across England, and nine months of wider sector placements to further build their skills and experience, enhancing future employment prospects.

Upon completion of the programme, successful graduates will earn a Professional Forester Apprenticeship (equivalent to Level 6), a BSc (Hons) in Forest Management and the potential to gain Chartered Forester status with the Institute of Chartered Foresters.

Forestry Commission Chief Executive, Richard Stanford said: “This new programme offers an exciting career pathway into the forestry sector for people from all backgrounds and abilities.

The AEA appoints new president

The Agricultural Engineers Association are delighted to announce the appointment of David Withers, Managing Director of ISEKI UK & Ireland to serve as President of the AEA.

David has been an active member of the AEA for many years serving on the Outdoor Power Equipment Council since 2000 and this is his second term as a Board member.

Commenting on the new appointment David said “It really is an honour to be appointed to this role and to be involved at this level within the AEA at what is truly a time of change.

“New technologies are driving change at ever greater pace and with possible post-Brexit standards’ divergence, the supply chain crisis we face, and now hanging over everything, the war in Ukraine, the AEA has never been more important to its members than right now.”

Ruth Bailey, CEO and Director General of the AEA said, “These are challenging times, but not without opportunity and we are delighted to have David with us as our next President. David worked closely with our team during the recent BAGMA acquisition and already has good working relationships at all levels in the AEA. We all look forward to working with him over the coming year.”

David entered this industry as a demonstrator at Charterhouse Turf Machinery before moving to a 25-year career at Textron. Starting as a Regional Manager, David had various roles and responsibilities with increasing seniority culminating in 8 years as Managing Director of Ransomes Jacobsen, followed by 6 years as USA-based President of Jacobsen. For the last 4 years David has been back in the UK with his new company ISEKI UK & Ireland.

Agricultural Engineers Association Enquiry 7

“It offers the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, a BSc (Hons) and the potential to gain Chartered Forester status with the Institute of Chartered Foresters. The Forestry Commission apprentices will be paid and will gain all these qualifi cations, with zero tuition fees and no need for a student loan.

“We are looking for ambitious, driven individuals who are eager to support our plans to expand, protect and improve our nation’s vital forests, woods and trees to give us a resilient future for generations to come.”

The announcement follows the publication of the England Trees Action Plan, which set out plans to treble tree planting rates in

England during this Parliament, funded through an expected £500 million from the Nature for Climate Fund.

It also forms part of wider Government action to create new green jobs across the country, including through the £6 million Trees Call to Action Fund, the landmark National Apprenticeships drive and the multi-billion-pound Plan for Jobs - putting the UK at the forefront of a green recovery.

Up to 45 Development Woodland Officer positions will be created over the next three years, with the fi rst cohort of 15 Offi cers starting in September this year.

Forestry Commission Enquiry 6

Enter your company into the BALI National Landscape Awards

Entries for the 46th National Landscape Awards, the largest landscape industry Awards in Europe, are open.

Entering is easy, with only four simple steps so don’t delay and start your entry today!

1. Register/log in via the online entry platform.

2. Start the online entry by completing the online entry questions. The handy entry questions document means all information can be gathered in advance.

3. Upload the digital submission pack and images through the online entry system.

It is important to review the entry guidelines document to ensure everything is included within the submission pack.

4. Submit entry. Submissions can be paid by credit/ debit card on the site or via invoice.

To assist members further with the entry process members can view this year’s Awards workshop, held with members of the judging panel, on-demand through the Awards website baliawards.co.uk where entrants can also view this year’s entry guidelines and the 33 categories available to enter.

For further information please visit baliawards.co.uk or contact

Events Project Manager, Emily Feeney via email at emily. feeney@bali.org.uk or call 07936 944258.

Entry deadlines and entry fees:

Accredited Contractor & Group/ Accredited Designer Categories:

• Fee £215.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £190.00 per entry)

• Final Deadline: 1 June 2022

- Fee £250.00 (Additional Entries: £225.00 per entry)

• First Time Entrant: £145.00 per entry

Supplier Exceptional Service/ Employer Excellence Categories:

• Early Bird Discount Deadline: 1 June 2022

- Fee £215.00 per entry

(Additional Entries: £190.00 per entry)

• Final Deadline: 6 July 2022

- Fee £250.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £225.00 per entry)

• First Time Entrant: £145.00 per entry

International:

• Early Bird Discount Deadline: 1 June 2022

- Fee £315.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £290.00 per entry)

• Final Deadline: 6 July 2022

- Fee £350.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £325.00 per entry)

• First Time Entrant: £245.00 per entry

BALI Enquiry 9

Kubota best in all events

Join us at The RHS Chelsea Flower Show 24-28 May 2022

MEDITE® makes it real at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show

MEDITE SMARTPLY has set its sights on the RHS Chelsea Flower Show to showcase its innovative product range and commitment to sustainable building. As a responsible manufacturer of wood construction panels, the company is committed to creating products that contribute to healthier buildings.

The innovative construction panel, MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME (MTX), has revolutionised the construction and landscaping industry. This groundbreaking product is guaranteed outdoors for 50 years and underground for 25 years, contributing towards sustainable construction. Its design capabilities are limited only by your imagination. Join the MEDITE MDF community online to receive the latest updates.

Visit meditemakesitreal.com for more information.

Dreamers welcome!

With 200 acres of grass to care for and a packed programme of events ranging from Truckfest to the International Antiques Fair and the Festival of Motorcycling, East of England Arena and Events Centre needs reliable, productive machinery.

After a round of demonstrations aimed at updating their fl eet, the grounds team has chosen a Kubota M5112 tractor, RTV-X1110 utility vehicle and ZD1211 zero turn mower, supplied by dealer Irelands Farm Machinery.

The main tasks for the 110hp M5112 are mowing the large expanses of grass used for exhibition space and parking, plus general haulage, head of maintenance Dean Wyers explains.

“We have also purchased a 4.6m Spearhead Multicut mower from Irelands, and the combination gives us the output we need to keep the extensive grass areas tidy. The Kubota tractor handles the mower really well, and it’s very comfortable to drive, with great visibility.”

Next on the shopping list was a ride-on mower, essential for cutting tighter areas.

“We had a front mower before but were interested in a zero turn to work around the many lamp posts, stand pipes and electricity boxes on the site.

“The ZD1211 is a huge improvement, so much quicker, but with a very good quality cut,” he comments. “It’s also durable enough to cope with the debris that can be hidden in the grass after an event and very easy to check and clean with its flip up deck.”

To get around the huge site and move tools and materials, the 24hp RTV-X 1110 has proved a great choice. Mr Wyers points out. “It’s very good to drive and comfortable due to its allround suspension – I’ve already clocked up some miles in it, and it’s proving economical on fuel. We do a lot of towing for which it gives plenty of power, and it can also be fi tted with a specialist sprayer which we fi nd very useful for weed control around fencelines.”

The RTV has a hydraulic tipping bed as standard, which he suggests will be handy for moving materials such as soil for ground repairs in the show season.

Kubota Enquiry 11

HTA Ornamental Technical Committee meets to plan new ‘Nursery Network’

The HTA Ornamentals Technical Committee (OTC) met for the first time this week at Horticulture House.

An intensive agenda and active participation by committee members generated immediate gains.

Topics for the planned HTA workshops this year were prioritised and included nutrient and water management of peat-free substrates, propagation in peat-free substrates, review and demonstration of biostimulant use, herbicide tolerance in container-grown herbaceous and hardy nursery stock, improving nursery water efficiency, non-chemical weed

control in field-grown crops and autumn potting deadlines and effects of late potting on overwintering and pathogen susceptibility.

These will be developed and delivered over the next 9-10 months.

Support was also provided to the new ‘Nursery Network’ discussion group, which will be open to all HTA grower members. The ‘Nursery Network’ will be chaired by David Hide, Technical Manager at Fleurie Nursery, and will initially consist of a nurserybased summer visit and winter technical meeting, providing the opportunity for growers to network and exchange ideas.

Campey keeps customer care as top priority

Campey Turf Care Systems is bolstering its dedication to customer support with the addition of four new team members.

Workshop Manager Bob Nixon, Outside Service Engineer, Dave Juke, Sales Demonstrator Archie Thomas and Product Specialist for Tom Weston, join Campeys as the company continues to meet customer demand and expands into its new premises.

The second Campey branch in Bosley, Macclesfi eld, includes a showroom and walk-in retail shop as well as additional servicing facilities.

The increase in workload from the new site and customer demand for new and used machinery has been met with several strategic appointments in all departments, as well as increasing the presence out in the field with a new Product Specialist Tom Weston.

Tom covers a large strip of the country from Macclesfield to Greater Manchester, down to Stockport, across to Chester and covering parts of the Peak District too. As an experienced greenkeeper spanning 24 years, Tom 41, has worked his way from assistant to head greenkeeper in clubs in the Stockport area, to becoming deputy course manager at Sale Golf club in Manchester, and is well placed to understanding the needs of both greenkeeper and groundsmen.

He already has substantial knowledge of turf maintenance equipment and will be a real asset to Campeys. By taking a proactive approach to staffing, Campey can ensure customer care is kept as a top priority in the workshop and out in the field in the build-up to a traditionally busy time for the turf care community.

Campey Turf Care Systems

Enquiry 13

The Committee also worked on updating a water audit pro forma for nurseries, the ambition being to offer an online self-assessment to quantify nursery water use efficiency in areas such as water sources used, storage, application efficiency and environmental responsibilities, and then to benchmark results against other similar nurseries.

Presentations to the Committee were also made by Jo McTigue, AHDB Crop Protection Officer, on EAMU applications and AHDB funded crop protection R&D projects, David Denny, HTA Director of Research and

Technical Policy Manager, on importing and plant biosecurity.

The OTC consists of - Ed Holmes, J&A Growers (Chair); Rob Richardson, Johnsons of Whixley; Vicky Endersby, Osberton Nurseries; David Malcolm, Worfield Plants; Imam Sayyed, Trees Please; James Durnford, Allensmore Nurseries; Andy Bean, O.A Taylor & Sons Bulbs; Aaron Bicknell, Double H Nurseries; Mark Creighton, Farplants; Karl O’Neill, Bransford Garden Plants; Kyle Ross, Wyevale Nurseries; Ben Shaw, Newey; Jo Fell, Hilliers and Ivelina Karastoyanova, Darby Nursery Stock.

Flow indicating basket filter launches

Rain Bird’s Flow Indicating Basket Filter is an all in one flow measurement, filtration and pressure regulation system.

A mechanical device that can work with any controller, it is a cost-effective alternative to digital flow systems. A dial at the top of the filter cap has bezel movement and provides the diagnostic information required about the operation of an irrigation zone and its total zone flow rate.

The bezel is twisted to line up with the indicator needle and marks the current correct rate for the zone. Any future deviation from the green marker into the orange/ red zone marking either side will indictate a potential filtration or leakage problem.

Rain Bird Enquiry 15

GreenMech CS 80 gets five star rating

A GreenMech CS 80 has received a five-out-of-five rating from Norfolk-based gardeners Garden Thyme.

Rhe 4” pedestrian unit’s simplicity of use and speed of processing has transformed residential tree and hedge maintenance, with the CS 80 chipping the woody waste faster than the team can prepare it.

The smallest machine in GreenMech’s pedestrian range, the CS 80 delivers compact with compromise – perfect for

‘on the spot’ chipping and jobs in tight spaces. At only 760mm wide, the ability to transport the CS 80 to exactly where

it’s required has been another major time-saving for Stephan.

Enquiry 17

Sarah Eberle’s Chelsea creation features MEDITE SMARTPLY’s sustainable products

file:///C:/Users/Charlie/Downloads/shutterstock_1543694750.jpg

Sustainable timber panel manufacturer MEDITE SMARTPLY has partnered with RHS Chelsea Flower Show’s most decorated designer Sarah Eberle to produce a garden themed around sustainability and the versatility of MEDITE SMARTPLY products.

MEDITE SMARTPLY aims to showcase its innovative products and commitment to sustainable building at the world-famous flower show.

The objective is to highlight the creative potential for engineered wood panels for use in sustainable building.

MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME (MTX) is one

of the products used in the development of the new garden – an MDF specifically formulated to resist the effects of water outdoors. It can last up to 50 years outdoors above ground, or up to 25 years in direct contact with the ground.

It is a sustainably produced, using pine thinnings from sustainably managed forests in Ireland, organically treated for resistance to fungal decay through an organic process called acetylation.

It has been used for garden sculptures, planters, and alongside a structural frame for outdoor seating and garden rooms, amongst many other examples.

“Although our products have long been used at events as renowned as the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, we wanted to use this opportunity to show the world just how far wood panel products have come in terms of innovation and sustainability,” commented Chris King, Managing Director – Commercial, at MEDITE SMARTPLY.

“Not only can MEDITE SMARTPLY panel products help you to achieve the most stringent sustainability criteria, but they can do so in a way that does not limit the creativity and inspiration of the world’s best designers.”

MEDITE SMARTPLY Enquiry 16

GreenMech

ICL products key to new pitch construction

A range of ICL products have helped Lincoln City FC’s new Fibresand pitch get off to the best possible start.

To do the new construction justice it was vital that the pitch received the correct products, and it was at this point that Head Groundsman Craig Housley liaised with Craig Lalley, Technical Area Sales Manager for ICL.

Within a six-week window before the start of the season, Craig focused on three products in the form of Sierrablen Plus with Pearl Turf Starter, H2Pro TriSmart wetting agent, and Vitalnova Links biostimulant.

The fi rst product applied was Sierrablen Plus with Pearl Turf Starter and was incorporated into the growing medium.

To complement the grass seed and the Sierrablen Plus with Pearl Turf Starter, Craig then turned to TriSmart wetting agent. Containing three water management technologies consisting of surfactant and polymer blends, TriSmart is renowned for providing great water penetration, an even water spread through the rootzone and can improve the water holding capacity of sandy rootzones.

Four weeks after seeding, Sierrablen Plus with Turf Starter and H2Pro TriSmart were applied, Craig recommended ICL’s Vitalnova Links biostimulant which is a new unique formulation consisting of the popular Vitalnova Blade and Vitalnova SMX.

ICL Enquiry 20

LITEWork Trousers – for cool comfort this summer

While Fabric, Functionality and Fit are hallmarks of Snickers Workwear, it’s the innovation and sustainable fabric technology in the design of the new LITEWork Work Trousers that really set them apart from other brands.

They’re great for working hard in the warmer months.

Delivering superior flexibility and cooling comfort, these stretchable, lightweight work trousers provide efficient moisture transport, ventilation and sun protection.

They also come with CORDURA reinforcements for extra durability and they feature a 4-way stretch fabrics, the patented Snickers Workwear KneeGuard system and detatchable holster pockets if you need them.

As well as being street-smart they’re packed with functionality and are specially designed for the fast-paced professional who’s always on the go and delivering top class work on site.

Snickers Workwear Enquiry 21

Increased play hastens arrival of Terra Spike

Lone head greenkeeper, Alistair Morrison at Britain’s most north westerly golf club, Durness GC, has taken ownership of a Wiedenmann Terra Spike GXi8 HD.

“Literally hundreds of very welcome visitors have made the club a destination across the pandemic, meaning our committee found budget for a Terra Spike far sooner than we all imagined,” said Alistair.

“Our pedestrian aerator, long past its best, could no longer make it out the shed. The GXi8 was a significant investment,

Green-tech use soil conditioning technology for prestigious scheme

Great Ancoats Street is one of the main arterial routes around the city centre and is a key part of the Manchester and Salford Inner Relief Route.

Manchester City Councils plan to landscape the area focused on making the route more attractive and ensuring the area is natural extension of the city centre.

Green-tech was asked to advise the best way to integrate tree pits into the project. There were several challenges to overcome; the main one being the level of lateral loading from traffic, which made the use of geo-cellular units impractical. Another was the extremely narrow width of some of the central reservations, and how to maximise the rooting volume.

For the tree pits within pavement areas ArborRaft units act as an extremely rigid, geo-cellular sub-

base replacement, supporting the paving above, as well as protecting the friable, organic topsoil below from compaction. For the narrow central reservations, a more structural soil was required; one that could stand up to the lateral loading from the heavy ring road traffic.

Green-tree Amenity Tree Soil was selected for its ability to cope well with compaction; even when consolidated, it retains its open structure, allowing free movement of air, water, and nutrients throughout the soil. A supplementary soil conditioner, TerraCottem Arbor, was also used as its developed specifically for tree and shrub planting and comprises a mix of specialist hydro-absorbent polymers, growth precursors and volcanic rock.

Green-tech Enquiry 25

State-of-the-art in urban paving re-pointing

Get cost efficiency as well as longterm durability in service with GftK’s vdw paving joint mortars. Pointing, and especially repointing, of the difficult so-called ‘smaller format’ urban paving, such as natural stone setts and cobbles used for roads and surfacing public spaces is now possible for the long term with GftK’s vdw paving joint mortars.

This also means completion on time, without delays due to the weather, or extended disruption with area closures, without expensive annual repointing costs, and without yet more costly claims for trips and falls. This durable longterm, cost-effective performance also increases your sustainability and is now clearly evidenced with successfully completed all around the UK.

Repointing areas of heavily exposed and frequently trafficked urban paving with natural stone paving, usually granite setts, was always a difficult and seemingly thankless task for all involved.

However, inspections in 2021 were made of major Local Authority natural stone sett repointing projects carried out using GftK’s vdw 850 system from NCC Streetscape,

which are now almost 15 years old (Newark Market Square), 13 & 12 years old (Hitchen Market Square & Church Road), and 8 years old (Norwich City Centre & the Arc Development, Bury St. Edmunds). These all showed the paved surfaces to be not only sound, but looking good, in great condition and durable for many more years’ service to come.

In all these busy public spaces, all previous pointing and repointing materials had failed, and usually their breakdown was significant within just a year or two in the demanding environments. However, this was and is all no problem for the unique GftK vdw 850 paving joint system, plus these projects were completed on time and on budget, because work could continue and be completed on time, even in cold, and or wet weather, without delay.

These projects all clearly demonstrate GftK is the ideal solution for Local Authorities and their professional teams, to cost effectively refurbish and repoint natural stone paving setts on urban roads and all sorts of other exposed public spaces.

Turning a floating fountain into a cost-effective fixed fountain is easy with Otterbine.

For those who have a fl oating fountain from Otterbine’s C3 range – including all of the decorative patterns and Fractional series – all you need to do is remove the fl oat from the fountain and attach the three-legged stand from the fi xed system to anchor the fountain to the bottom of the pond basin. And voila, you have a fi xed fountain.

This in turn removes the back float from the floating fountain (or, if you were going for a bespoke fountain fixture, the piping and valves) from sight for an aesthetically pleasing result.

Each stand comes assembled with adjustable legs that can be positioned at different heights to accommodate sloping bottoms of varying depths between 22 to 30 inches, while the rubber feet can be removed for earth bottoms. Made from corrosion-resistant and durable marine-grade

stainless steel, the pump chamber fi ts fl ush with the surface and comes with power control centre cable with quick disconnect for ease of installation.

They are backed by a robust fiveyear warranty and can be fitted with Otterbine’s Fountain Glo™ RGBW light systems to enhance the fountain’s display and give rich vibrant light through a variety of coloured displays and sequences at night.

Otterbine Enquiry 29

Marshalls Landscape Protection secures synagogue

Jacksons Fencing is proud to announce the launch of its new angled slotted fence post.

This fence post solution enables corners between 30-45 degrees, adding more options for gardens without being bound to sharp 90-degree corners.

Jacksons Fencing’s new Angled Fence Post offers adaptable fence

installation to outdoor spaces with difficult fence runs.

Thanks to regular customer research and feedback, Jacksons Fencing discovered that some struggle to find fencing solutions for their exterior spaces if they don’t conform to straight or 90-degree fencing.

Jacksons Fencing Enquiry 30

Responding to the growing threat of vehicle-ramming attacks, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation specialist, Marshalls Landscape Protection has had a range of its industry-leading security bollard systems installed at a synagogue in Queens, New York.

The Marshalls Landscape Protection team specifi ed and installed its RhinoGuard 25/40 Protective Bollard system with stainless steel sleeves, alongside its Rhino RT SS5 Heavy Duty Telescopic Bollard system.

Together, the range of solutions ensures better security for worshipers at the synagogue, providing protection to the most vulnerable parts of the building.

Able to withstand the force of a 2.5 tonne vehicle travelling

at 40mph, the RhinoGuard ® 25/40 Protective Bollard system provides an excellent option for protecting sensitive public spaces, such as religious buildings.

The solution, which is Made in Britain, has been successfully crash-tested in accordance with the BSI PAS 68 standard, rendering test vehicles immobile on collision.

Similarly, the Rhino RT SS5 Heavy Duty Telescopic Bollard combines strength, security and ease of use, benefi tting from a reinforced internal sleeve for added fortitude. The highperforming solution, is being used to prevent cars accessing the rear car park.

Marshalls Landscape Protection Enquiry 31

Brett Landscaping played a key role in the completion of Crystal Palace’s new £20m academy and training ground when they were able to offer the best product with the shortest lead time.

The leading independent concrete paving manufacturer was selected to provide more than 1,300 square metres of the new high performance Invicta block paving at the Premier

League club’s new complex in Beckenham.

Architects KSS worked very closely with the Crystal Palace chairman and senior management in selecting premium products for the exterior at the prestigious site -and Brett’s Invicta Pearl and Invicta Onyx met the high standards of everyone at the club.

33

Brett Landscaping Enquiry

Organisers delighted as #GroundsWeek grows its success

The GMA launched #GroundsWeek in March 2021 as part of its Grounds For Sport initiative where funds were reinvested into helping raise the influence and profile of turf-care and grounds management with the main objective to support growth and diversification of future workforces.

The objectives for #GroundsWeek 2022 were

to, once again, celebrate the vital role the groundscare sector plays in community and professional sport across the country, whilst encouraging more people to consider careers in grounds management.

The quality of coverage stood out, with interviews with grounds staff on BBC Radio and a special segment dedicated to #GroundsWeek

airing multiple times on ITV News across the country.

With a 51% increase in social media activity using the #GroundsWeek hashtag, the key messages of #GroundsWeek reached a greater audience than before, with many clubs sharing in depth insights into their grounds teams, including Leicester City F.C., Durham

County Cricket Club, Watford F.C., and Leicester Tigers amongst others.

Through campaigns like #GroundsWeek, The GMA is aiming to create long-lasting change to benefit future generations so that people of all ages can play on safe, good quality pitches whether at clubs, parks or schools. With the pandemic slowly

becoming a thing of the past, with an engaged community of groundspeople and dedicated groundscare businesses, and with The GMA’s partners at the National Governing Bodies backing our work, it is confident that the groundscare sector will see more reasons to be positive about when #GroundsWeek returns in 2023.

Grassroots football facilities to be regenerated

One hundred and sixteen projects across England will receive funding to create and improve pitches, changing rooms and pavilions, so that more local communities can access highquality facilities.

Projects have been chosen for their ability to deliver improved facilities in deprived areas, support multi-sport use and increase participation among currently under-represented groups, including women, girls and disabled players.

The announcement follows a joint ‘Expression of Interest’ submitted to UEFA by the Football Associations of England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

The governments of the UK, Ireland, Scotland and Wales have confirmed their support for the EOI submission and, given the Northern Ireland Executive is currently not meeting formally, officials there continue to observe the process closely.

The funding, combined with contributions from The FA, Premier League, clubs and other local partners, will improve the quality of community facilities, bring people together to enjoy playing sport in their local area, regenerate communities and enhance social cohesion.

A total of £39 million will be provided for football facilities in England this financial year, out of a total of £230 million set to be invested to help to

build or upgrade up to 8,000 quality pitches across the UK over the next four years.

The funding will also support the construction or refurbishment of clubhouses, changing facilities and community buildings.

Scotland will also receive a total of £2 million, Wales £1.3 million and Northern Ireland £700,000.

Football Funding Enquiry 35

Newquay natives prevail

A bespoke wildflower mixture consisting of native Cornish flowers has helped Newquay Golf Club scoop Syngenta’s annual Operation Pollinator Award.

The aim of the Golf Environment Awards (GEAs) is to recognise, reward and promote outstanding individuals and golf courses, no matter how big or small, for the time and effort they have put into protecting and preserving their unique surroundings.

The Operation Pollinator Award celebrates golf clubs that consistently deliver outstanding ecological habitat creation and management to benefit pollinating insects. Amongst other ecological activities on the course, Dan also impressed the judges by introducing native wildflower areas.

Appropriately named the Newquay Wildflowers, the mixture contained 24 flower species including Vipers Bugloss,

Hunter innovation impresses The Swans

The advanced technology of Hunter Irrigation has hugely impressed Swansea City FC with Head Groundsman Evan Davies claiming it has improved the turf and simplified the irrigation process.

The Hunter Irrigation system at the stadium, supplied by KAR UK, includes eight of the most technologically advanced commercial rotors on the market – the I-80’s. Engineered for sports turf, the I-80 is built with a robust, dirt-tolerant gear drive that offers the highest

Yellow Rattle, Common Toadflax, Dark Mullein plus five various grass species. Dan and his team created the first area in autumn 2020, and then started rolling it out to other areas on the course.

Not only have they provided a rich, colourful, and diverse ecological habitat but they have also wowed the public and members by offering great aesthetic value.

MM Sport Seeds Enquiry 37

Quick compaction relief thanks to Verti-Quake

Tackling compaction on previous untouched ground, a Redexim Verti-Quake 2516 has dramatically improved the downward movement of moisture at Rotherham’s Phoenix Golf Club. The Verti-Quake, delivered in September 2021, complements the aeration work conducted with their existing Redexim

Verti-Drain, with Multi-Sport Complex Manager Mark Smith citing outstanding results on some of the sites historically waterlogged areas.

“The Verti-Drain has traditionally been utilised on the greens but not on larger, open areas because of staffing levels” explains Mark. After exploring

the options, Mark opted for the Redexim Verti-Quake ® 2516 –offering a 1.6m working width and effective compaction relief down to 250mm. After making such a strong fi rst impression, Mark is now looking forward to the further improvements the Verti-Quake® can deliver.

torque output of any rotor in the commercial sphere, and extends a radius range from 11.3 to 29.6 meters.

The I-80 features a wide range of highly efficient, dual-trajectory, wind-fighting nozzles for highly efficient performance in a range of applications. It also provides total top serviceability (TTS) via its integrated, surface-mounted snap-ring for no-dig easy maintenance.

Johnsons J Tee helps overcome challenge of high wear

The unique blend of cultivars in Johnsons Sports Seeds J Tee mixture is delivering the magic combination of rapid establishment and high wear tolerance required at Cardiff’s Wenvoe Castle Golf Club.

Head Greenkeeper Lucy Sellick cites the small tees and the sustained high levels of play as a major maintenance challenge, overcome with this mix incorporating tetraploids and a little extra spring ‘kickstart’ with DLF’s ProNitro ® seed coating.

Johnsons J Tee incorporates 40% tetraploid ryegrass, in the form of Fabian and Tetragame, delivering significantly improved disease tolerance, shoot density and recovery, even under close mown conditions. It also incorporates

Sabrena

“We also use Johnsons J All Bent on our greens which, again, is great for high wear tolerance,” explained Lucy. “The high wear areas around the perimeters of the greens are predominately Poa, but the combination of Arrowtown and Manor outcompetes that and helps us to achieve faster greens with improved disease resistance.”

Sport Seed Enquiry 41

Redexim Enquiry 38

KAR UK Enquiry 39

RSMG – which germinates like a ryegrass, has the fine leaf

Johnsons

PERFORMS BEYOND OTHER BATTERIES.

The intelligent power of EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium™ battery controls and monitors each battery cell to deliver maximum power and performance, while its unique Arc shape and Keep Cool™ technology helps to optimise temperature for longer run times. It is battery performance that goes beyond.

To find out more visit egopowerplus.co.uk

Total groundscare solution with an all-in-one machine

There’s no better finish than a Dennis

Jay Berkhauer, Head Groundsman for Dartford FC, says that the Dennis G860 cylinder mower is hugely versatile and offers an unrivalled finish.

Jay, who is employed by Jordans Sports Ground Solutions, has been working at Dartford FC’s Princes Park Stadium for three seasons. As an experienced grounds manager, Jay has worked on many sports surfaces including football, rugby and cricket.

It’s safe to say that he knows his mowers and there’s one that he has used regularly throughout his career.

Dennis G860 is one of the most renowned cylinder mowers in the grounds management industry. Lightweight at just 166kg it is incredibly easy to manoeuvre and comfortable to operate. The handlebar console houses the controls for the throttle, parking brake, roller drive and cutting cylinder drive.

Jay claims that this versatility is one of the G860’s best features.

A flail mower is ideal for maintaining rough grassed areas, pasture land, and woodland walks where a conventional mower gets clogged up and struggles to cut.

SCH Supplies Ltd’s FM42 and FM48 have the same base design and construction, with the main difference being that the FM42 has a 42” cutting width and a 9HP Honda engine.

The FM48 has a 48” cutting width and a 13HP Honda engine. SCH manufacturers both machines to

equally high standards and levels of durability. The flail mower is a powerful, towed, long grass cutter with 36 (FM42) and 42 (FM48) ) Y-shaped cutting flails which are driven by two ‘V’ belts. These sharpened flails are easily replaceable to extend the lifetime of the machine.

Mounted at the rear of the cutter is a one-piece roller. This roller is easily adjusted to fine-tune the cutting height and alleviates scalping by ensuring the flails lift above the highest peaks on uneven ground.

The transport wheels situate at the rear of the machine instead of the side.

The mower cuts closer to the edge and can squeeze through narrow pathways by mounting the transport wheels in the new position.

SCH manufacturers over 250 quality British built machines that can be towed behind a tractor, ride on mower or ATV.

SCH Supplies Ltd Enquiry 43

Relied upon at world class stadia and major tournaments, the

The mower features a large diameter front roller with an adjustable scraper which has been designed for a precise height of cut control, giving an excellent finish on every occasion. The Dennis G860 also features an interchangeable cassette system to assist with a wide range of tasks such as including scarifying, verticutting, brushing, spiking, and slitting.

“We have the verticutting cassette, the brush and the cutting cylinder,” he said. “In the summer months when the grass needs thinning out, I’ll use the verticutting cassette. I’ll also use it during renovations, just to give it a thorough clean and to remove any thatch. In winter, I’ll use the brush cassette after a game to give the pitch a tidy-up and to remove any debris. If I used a small rotary mower to do this after a game, I would be doing it all night, so the brush has certainly helped me to save time.

“Then of course, we have the cutting cylinder which provides an excellent finish every time.”

Dennis Enquiry 44

Pro-Flex

Pro-Flex

EGO’s zero turn sets new standards

The EGO Power+ 107cm Zero Turn Ride-on Mower, the Z6, is powered by any combination of its industry leading 56V ARC Lithium batteries to deliver the power and performance of a 22HP petrol ride-on mower.

With a battery capacity up to 72Ah and utilising EGO’s proprietary Peak Power+ Technology the Z6 is capable of cutting in up to 10,000m2(2.5 acres) on a single charge.

If run time, land speed and mowing area aren’t enough, the Z6 also uses the industry’s fastest charger allowing for up to 6 56V

ARC Lithium™ batteries being charged at the same time. A typical 60Ah setup will charge in just three hours.

Living up to EGO’s reputation for high performance zero emission outdoor power equipment, the Z6 offers the user the ability to customise their setup beyond what has previously been thought possible.

The cutting height positions for the Z6 range between 2.5cm and 10cm and are easily adjustable with one hand using the ergonomic handle so users can dial in on the perfect cut.

Thanks to its 3-in-1 function, gardeners can choose what they do with the clippings; sidedischarge, mulch, or collect.

Ride and blade cutting speed adjustments are all possible while seated via the large LCD display that also shows remaining battery charge levels and other selected customisations.

For ultimate comfort, there are three driving modes with four settings, including enhanced travel speed for fast cutting, and turf care mode.

EGO Enquiry 47

New CS Pro models added to MAJOR range

Major Equipment expands its CS Pro mower class with the 3.0m model (MJ65-300).

The CS Pro is a multi-purpose mower for compact tractors. The mulching blade system delivers an exceptional finish in everyday mowing.

Heavy duty gearboxes power multiple rotors achieving consistent results in dense vegetation and hedgerow undergrowth as well as estate lawns and sports turf.

Made of high performance Strenx 700 MC steel and galvanised, the CS Pro is a premium mower delivering a high return on investment.

The MJ65-300 is a 3.0m wide machine with two wings folding up to 2.0m in transport

mode. The four rotors feature four 7mm blades per rotor and delivers intense shredding in light and heavy material.

Combined with high bladetip speeds, all vegetation is finely cut and evenly dispersed leaving no windrows.

Full length rollers follow ground contours while producing a striped effect. The cutting height is easily set between 15 and 100mm.

As little as 30hp is required to power the 3.0m CS Pro, giving the subcompact or low-end utility tractor more capability than before. The CS Pro is available in 1.50m, 2.10m and 3.0m widths.

Major Equipment Enquiry 48

DEMAND QUALITY, WHY COMPROMISE?

“With our larger aeartors and implements requiring high lift capacity of 1,580kg, powerful 49hp engine, tight turning circles and low weight to avoid turf damage, the compact and powerful TG6507 IQ is perfect. It makes aerating effortless with the headland management system that can be set to automatically disengage the PTO on lifting and re-engage when lowering, turning at the end of runs is so simple. The high specification air-con cab is just the ultimate in comfort. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this top quality well-built, sturdy and reliable tractor.”

Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your pitch today! www.iseki.co.uk

Max Sandford,Head Groundsman,Exeter Rugby Club

Etesia goal achieved for contractor

It was a brand of mower he always wanted and now, Lee Norris, owner of Four Seasons Gardening, is the proud owner of four brand new Etesia pedestrian mowers.

Lee and his team now tend to many private and commercial projects and it is these high standards which has ensured that the company has never lost a contract.

These standards demanded by Lee, not only apply to work ethic, but also to the equipment – and there is one brand that he has always had in his sights.

Etesia’s renowned PRO 46 pedestrian models are robust, reliable, ergonomic, and easy to use. Lee opted for the single

speed self-propelled option, but a push variant (PHE3) is also available.

The design of these models has been proven over many years and has an unbeatable record of quality and performance unrivalled in its class.

They provide outstanding collection performance, even if the grass is long and wet – something that Etesia has prided itself on over the past 30 years.

Lee purchased four PRO 46 PHTS3’s and believes they have certainly lived up to his expectations.

Etesia Enquiry 51

Turf Managers Specialist

(TMS) Grass have become the first sports turf contractors in Central South America to own a pair of 34” floating head mowers from INFINICUT.

Having spent years travelling the world to discover the top tools and techniques for grounds maintenance, Owner Enio Cubillo began to see the INFINICUT’s at leading venues and decided that the sustainable credentials would be a perfect fit for their projects around Latin America.

TMS Grass began life seven years ago in Costa Rica and the

team have since installed and maintained hybrid and natural surfaces in countries including Mexico and Guatemala.

One of their most recent projects was to install a new pitch at Panama’s National Stadium, Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez.

Together with National League and LPF training and fixtures, the Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez is also hosting five qualifier games for the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

INFINICUT Enquiry 52

Progressive –delivering contour mowers the way they should be designed

With the warmer weather approaching and spring growth kicking in, Vanmac have a wide range of quality solutions to cutting around the course, thanks to the Progressive range of trailed and mounted rotary finishing mowers.

Progressive have a long and illustrious track record for designing and manufacturing innovative mowers, ideally suited to the golf course thanks to their unrivalled contour following ability.

Of particular interest - and available in the UK for the first time - is tri-deck TDR-X.

The three independently floating decks of the TDR-X promise to closely follow the contours of the ground, without scalping, offering a combined cutting width of 3.2m and an easily adjustable cutting height range from 9.5mm to 84.5mm.

Along with other machines in the Progressive range, the TDR-X takes advantage of Progressive’s Pro Lift-N-Turn technology,

allowing the operator to temporarily raise the decks, with the PTO still engaged, to make turning easier and increase overall productivity.

Another popular choice for greenkeepers is the Pro-Flex 120. Offering a cutting width of 3m, the Pro-Flex is the most widely used trailed contour finishing mower. It features graduated cut height options of between 25mm and 76mm for uniform quality and ultimate versatility on different areas around the course.

For larger areas, the Progressive TDR-15 Tri-Deck roller mower offers an impressive cutting width of over 4.5m! The height of cut can go as low as 12mm on the TDR-15, while full width rollers help to smooth the turf leaving a pleasing striped finish in its wake. Its superior cut quality is delivered by highlift rotary blades that create a vacuum, lifting the plant up for a clean and uniform cut. Clippings are then evenly dispersed over the rollers.

Vanmac Enquiry 53

Local authorities choose Ventrac

Brightlingsea’s Mayor, Cllr Jane Chapman, was present at the offi cial handover of a Ventrac all-terrain compact tractor and selection of attachments at the north Essex coastal town recently.

Delivered by local dealer, Upson Mowers, the equipment is being used for mowing the town’s recreation fields, maintaining local cycle paths and keeping the beach promenade free of sand and other debris.

The ever-versatile compact tractor was specifi ed with a MU rotary mowing deck, a Power Brush and a V-blade, to provide specific solutions for some unique challenges faced by the seaside town’s council.

Brightlingsea Town Council’s Grounds Manager, Terry

Hamilton, said: “We’ve certainly purchased a very versatile piece of kit. We’re replacing an aging triple reel mower with this Ventrac and the MU deck, which provides the same level of finish, so we’re not sacrifi cing quality or overall presentation.

"We have two recreation grounds to maintain, one of which is on clay and just above the water table, so can be very wet at certain times of the year. The Ventrac, in its eight-wheel configuration, has an exceptionally low ground pressure of just 6 psi, enabling us to mow, whatever the conditions.”

North Lincolnshire Council is committed to delivering best value to its residents and demonstrated this with its purchase of two Ventrac 4500 all-terrain compact tractors

New Z9 from Cub Cadet is made for every slope

Cub Cadet has launched its new top of the range Z9 183id zero-turn. Proven by landscape professionals the Z9 will fulfil all your commercial requirements. With extremely wide double wheels, the Z9 has been developed to effortlessly tackle even the steepest slopes up to 25° / 46%.

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 zero-turn. The patented SyncroSteer® technology means that even the less experienced operators can benefit from the ease of use and amazing manoeuvrability of this machine.

The Z9 reduces mowing time by up to 10% compared to lap bar mowers, provides greater hillside stability, enhanced traction on uneven terrain as well as mowing in straighter lines.

It 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 Z9 floats as the machine moves, allowing the multi-reinforced steel deck to follow the shape of the terrain and avoid scalping. The cutting deck can be adjusted at the touch of a button.

The Kawasaki EFI engine provides the consistent power you need to get the job done and maximise your work-day –reducing the downtime which could cost you both time and money.

Comfort is at the forefront of the machine’s design. Your operators can experience a smooth ride all day long thanks to the exclusive air-ride seat and isolated dampening system on the Z9 – meaning they are working in vibration-controlled comfort, lessening downtime for your business. Angled back adjustments, padded armrest and lumbar support give added protection.

Ideal for commercial users and owners of large properties with challenging slopes, the Z9 has everything and more that you would expect from a quality professional machine - ultimate performance, comfort and durability that delivers a fast, premium cut time and time again.

and multiple attachments. The package included two MU rotary mowing decks, a Tough Cut deck and a Tiller attachment.

“We were looking to replace our aging Aebi mower,” said Green and Open Spaces Manager Carl Beacock, “but I wanted to ensure that we achieved best value with an alternative machine that was more than a ‘one-trick pony’.

“We are mandated to maintain all green spaces in the area including parks, sports pitches, cemeteries and roadside verges.

“Traditionally we have been using ride-on cylinder and rotary mowers, but they are designed for one specific purpose whereas the Ventrac is much more versatile.”

Price Turfcare Enquiry 56

EP Barrus Enquiry 57

Honda’s new version of its HRM3000 robotic mower

The HRM3000 Live will now feature 3G and 4G connectivity for remote monitoring and control of all HRM3000 features including GPS tracking for peace of mind.

For customers with more than one Miimo will also gain fleet management functionality.

Connectivity costs are included for the first six years of use, and users can connect from anywhere with an internet connection through the Mii-monitor app. The new Mii-monitor app for the

HRM3000 Live is easy to use.

The modern intuitive layout indicates operating status by background colour, and the previous and next operating days and times are clearly displayed.

A calendar overview makes it easy to check the working schedule. Changes can be made remotely and cutting sessions can be added or cancelled.

Settings including the cutting height can also be changed without having to be near the machine.

Push-notifications for technical errors, security alerts and maintenance can all be selected and checked. The HRM3000 Live upgrade also allows voice control through Amazon Alexa.

Honda dealers can use the Live connectivity to provide efficient support – from checking and recommending settings to fault diagnosis, potentially saving a customer visit.

Honda Enquiry 59

Expanding range from Quad-X

The Quad-X range of quad attachments is ideal for landowners, amenity contractors and groundscare.

Quad-X manufacture over 100 attachments for ATVs including their acclaimed Power Shredder and Wildcut mowers, Wipeout weed wipers and their eye catching commercial spec dump trailer.

Quad-X’s ATV Wildcut Rotary Mowers are ideal for topping grass and weeds such as docks, thistles and nettles in areas where tractor access may be difficult. The extreme-duty Wildcut Mower and innovative Power Shredder Mowers are the most capable ATV mowers available and are ideal even if you have heavy 5ft rushes, bracken or heather to cut.

Working closely with customers, Quad-X developed the ATV Strimit to take the back ache out of keeping awkward overgrown areas tidy.

Developed for use under fences solar panels, along laneways and verges and around trees the Strimit is designed to fit on any ATV., allowing the user to keep at a safe distance from any debris and clippings, getting the job done from the seat of their ATV.

The Strimit deck can pivot at the centre of the frame allowing greater access to hard to reach areas while a protection bar protects the deck. It runs on 15x6x6 wheels. The cutting diameter is easily adjusted as is the cutting height and drawbar height to allow use with different towing vehicles.

Swift lands in the UK

The Swift battery powered garden rider from STIGA has batteries that are interchangeable with a wide range of 48V hand-held tools such as strimmers, blowers and hedge cutters.

This means only one charger is needed to power the whole garden as the batteries that drive the Swift rider also power other STIGA hand-held garden tools.

You can keep on mowing too as the Swift operates very efficiently on just three batteries whilst the fourth can be used in other tools. STIGA ePower batteries offer all the power of petrol and are cleaner, quieter and emission free.

STIGA Enquiry 61

AS YAK:

PROFESSIONAL RIDE-ON FLAIL MOWER. STRONG, ROBUST, PERFORMS ON DIFFICULT TERRAIN

Trilo S4 delivers multipurpose performance

A Trilo S4 has proven its credentials as a multi-functional machine without compromise for the team at Richmond Golf Club. Purchased initially to assist with the mammoth task of collecting leaves from more than 3000 trees around the parkland course, the interchangeable heads and ability to flail cut has seen the S4 out and assisting with maintenance year-round.

Bought from local dealers Ernest Does in time for the autumn

of 2019, the S4 was a straight replacement of another Trilo unit which, as Course Manager Les Howkins explains, had been a workhorse at the London club for over 20 years. “The Trilo S4 is also an ideal size for us – it features a large 4m3 hopper to collect large quantities of material but is compact enough overall to easily navigate our relatively ‘small’ 104acre course.”

Quad-X Enquiry 60

Vanmac Enquiry 63

Future-proofing performance from Toro

Toro has followed up the ground-breaking all-electric ride-on greensmower, with a new lithium-ion battery version of a classic pedestrian mower.

There’s no question electric is the future of the industry and Toro has consistently led the way with the development required to get this technology to market.

The Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3370 brings no emissions, less noise and easier maintenance without any compromise on the

quality of cut expected from a Toro riding greensmower.

The new electric Toro Greensmaster eFlex 1021 is the lithium-ion battery-powered version of the popular flex-head walk-behind Flex1021 greensmower.

All the innovation of the original with patented proven Flex technology and popular telescoping handle, but powered by clean, green energy.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 64

Bi-directional slope mower boosts output

Undertaking time consuming headland turns at the end of each mowing bout can be unproductive, awkward, and on steep slopes, potentially dangerous.

Furthermore, these repetitive turns can cause unnecessary surface disturbance and excessive track wear

To overcome this problem and help boost productivity, McConnel has introduced the ROBOCUT RC28, a remote-control slope mower with bi-directional mowing capabilities.

By locating the 1.1m rotary mulching deck directly beneath the 28hp Vanguard engine, the slope mower can efficiently mow in either direction.

By eliminating the need for time consuming headland turns, operators can mow to the end of the row and then simply track back in the opposite direction to make the return pass.

To ensure intuitive control, the RC28 automatically reverses the directional input from the remote-control unit meaning right-joystick input always turns right, and left-joystick input always turns left, regardless of the machine’s direction of travel.

In addition to eliminating headland turns, McConnel’s RC28 design also brings several further advantages including a lower center of gravity and improved stability when working on slopes up to 55 °

With working speeds up to 7kmh and option to add GPS autosteer guidance, the bi-directional ROBOCUT RC28 is proving popular with professional grass maintenance

teams requiring a simple to use, easy to transport, high output slope mowing solution.

McConnel Enquiry 65

A revolution in performance with Wessex

Operators of the Wessex range of RMX rigid deck roller mowers can achieve even better performance with the SpiroCut 4 mower blades system.

The unique system uses four precision GoldCut blade tips, a series of curved blade carriers and the laws of centrifugal force to create optimum performance and cut quality.

The purpose of the curved carriers is to ensure any debris collecting on the leading edges of the blades is immediately spun off into the path of the blade.

The blade carrier is angled to achieve the effect and it’s centrifugal force that ensures the

blade tip is constantly held in the optimum cutting position.

The result is increased cuts per revolution.

In fact, cuts per revolution and updraft are doubled which translates into a premium cut quality at an even faster forward speed, thus maximising output and profitability.

The Wessex ProMulcher mower blades can also be used in conjunction with the SpiroCut 4 blade system for both maximum output and the added advantage of mulching the clippings.

Wessex International Enquiry 66

again

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.

Tough Cut deck continues to impress for Ventrac

AS Motor brushcutters – for extraordinary mowing tasks

The range of AS Motor Brushcutters available from PSD Groundscare are made for use in tough conditions including areas of extremely dense growth, slopes and rough terrain whilst still manoeuvring effortlessly around obstacles and trees.

The range of Pedestrian Brushcutters includes the AS 63 which offers a high performance and easy handling solution to cutting high grass even on steep slopes or where access is limited. Its low weight, vibration damping and handlebar adjustment makes the AS 63 exceptionally user friendly, and its fold down handles ease transportation and storage. There are also twin wheel kits available and the AS 63 is available with either a 4-Stroke or 2-Stroke engine or the new battery / electric model is now available and each models offers an extremely powerful machine with outstanding climbing ability.

• Vibration damping: Through vibration and impact damping, hand-arm vibration is reduced to a minimum.

ability to brake when riding downhill, when compared with a 2-wheel drive model.

After seeing Ventrac’s Tough Cut deck in action, many people believe it’s a flail mower as it easily tames tall grass, thick weeds and heavy brush.

It is, in fact, a highly efficient rotary deck with a large front opening that directs material to three heavy-duty counter rotating blades that cut and deposit waste evenly without windrowing.

To aid efficient operation while in the field, the blades are sharp on both sides so they can be used on the right or left-hand spindles, allowing for extended blade life.

Capable of tackling saplings up to 2.54 mm (1 inch) in diameter, the Tough Cut makes short work out of overgrown thickets.

It has three cutting heights: 76 mm, 92 mm and 108 mm. Easy servicing of belts and pulleys

is provided by the hinged and removable cover, while the flip-up deck - with optional hydraulic lift - provides easy access for cleaning and changing blades.

Norse Commercial Services (NCS) maintain the embankments of the Broadland Northway, a 19.5 km (12 mile) dual carriageway formerly known as the Norwich Northern Distributor Road (NNDR), that connects traffic from the eastern approaches to the northwest of Norfolk’s county town.

Martin Adcock, Operations Manager, was tasked with finding a solution to the maintenance of these embankments: “My first action was an internet search for slope mowers. Remote controlled mowers featured prominently

but productivity was an issue due to their limited width of cut.

The Ventrac also featured in the search and with its 1.7 metre Tough Cut deck and maximum speed of around 16 km an hour, it appeared that it could do the job.

“Our dealer arranged a demonstration and it was brilliant; it tackled the embankments with ease and left a very acceptable finish.

“With a ground pressure of just 6 psi, it’s gentle on the newly established slopes and can be used at 30 degrees, something no other ride-on machine can achieve. It’s versatile and we also use it around the lagoons that take the water run-off from the road.”

Enquiry 68

Features include:

• Mulch & Mow in one step: The cross-blade system easily cuts and chops even high growth with excellent mulching results.

• Permanent traction: The robust transmission with limited slip differential ensures reliable and safe working even on difficult, steep terrain.

AS Motor also offer an extensive range of Ride-On Brushcutters and the AS Motor AS 940 Sherpa has taken the market by storm, taking man and machine into places that previously were inaccessible, including into brush and brambles that are thick and up to 1.5m in height with features including:

• Blade System: AS brush cutter mowing deck with interchangeable flexibly mounted blades cut and shred at the same time.

• With All-wheel drive: Permanent all-wheel drive, better traction on up and downhill, as well as the

Comfort seat: Variable adjustment bucket seat and innovative suspension system ensure operator comfort.

• Surfing cutting deck: The blade cover allows vertically evasive movements in uneven terrain, to protect the mower deck and provide greater ground clearance.

The AS 940 is also available as a remote control model which with a 300m range offers a great safe solution for mowing areas where the operator can’t access eg steep slope, under trees or into nettles and brambles.

Groundscare Enquiry 69

Pellenc is ‘superior’ for

The brushcutter the company saw being demonstrated was the powerful Excelion 2. With a rotational speed of 6,600rpm and a cutting diameter of 420mm, the Excelion 2 battery-powered brushcutter offers superior performance for professional

intensive landscaping and forestry work.

Weighing 30% less than petrolpowered brushcutters, it also has a newly designed smart handle that enables agile manoeuvring and displays digital information in real-time including current speed, battery life (as a percentage and in minutes) and power indication.

Ventrac

PSD

Hard Graft Garden Services, based in East Lothian, Scotland, believes that Pellenc is a ‘superior’ brand of battery-powered technology.

Zero-turns cut it big in half the time

Zero-turn mowing allows you to turn the machine in its footprint, which means you cover the ground a lot faster than with a conventional mower.

It is no wonder so many professionals turn to zero-turn for the ease of use and commercial benefits.

The Ariens commercial zero-turn line-up is impressive, as is the build quality and its reputation for engineering excellence.

Take the Ariens APEX, constructed with well-crafted

components and a hardy deck.

Its speed and ability to turn on its axis mean you can expect to cut mowing time in half. The Ariens ZENITH 60 is packed with commercial features and built for durability.

The ZENITH’s large 152cm (60”) cutting deck also contributes to greater productivity. The APEX and ZENITH series are now available in a range of sizes and deck configurations.

Built on the fully commercial ZENITH platform, the ZENITH E is Ariens all-electric

commercial, zero-turn mower. It is designed to provide operators with the cutting capabilities of a heavy duty zero-turn with the benefits of low noise and zero emissions when in use.

It is perfect for commercial operators looking to access the growing number of ‘green’ contracts.

The ZENITH E provides you with a continuous cutting time of up to 5.5 hours on a full charge, depending on cutting conditions.

Ariens Enquiry 72

New commercial E-Power equipment

The last few years has seen substantial growth in the use of battery electric machinery and now the ‘serious professional user’ can benefit from the developments made by AS Motor and Koppl.

There is now a range of E-Power solutions available from PSD Groundscare that are suitable for the professional market that can cope with long grass and includes professional lawn mowers and professional brushcutters which build on the success of the existing E-mulching mowers and E-weed brushes.

The new range from AS Motor builds on the existing battery

Battery power with no limits

Outdoor power equipment specialist EGO has launched a new battery size and charging options to give gardening, landscaping and grounds care specialists increased run-time and no limits when it comes to battery power.

Addressing a common concern with battery power, EGO has launched its CHU6000 Professional Multi-Port Charging Case which is able to

charge any combination of up to six EGO portable batteries at the same time.

Working with the industry’s fastest charger, the new CHV1600E 1600W Multi-Port Charger, a typical 60Ah setup will charge in just three hours meaning users can comfortably work continuously throughout the day.

EGO Enquiry 73

range and benefits from their partnership with EGO batteries and offers the latest advances in battery technology and are available now.

Koppl also continue to develop their range of E-Power equipment, building on the popular Compact Easy E-Drive power unit with the recent introduction of the Compact Comfort E-Drive which offers a powerful power unit for operating a range of landscaping and groundwork attachments.

The available solutions include mowers, brushcutters, sweepers and weed removal, all suitable for the rigorous

use in the professional market. Benefits of E-Power battery machines include:

• Quieter working environments – for operators and the public

• Reduced hand arm vibrations – helping to safeguard the operator

• Reduced carbon footprint and emissions – kinder to the environment and the operator

• Lower running costs – it’s cheaper to charge up a battery than to buy fuel

• No fuel storage – or purchase of flammable liquids required

74

PSD Groundscare Enquiry

The Dennis E-Series range has arrived

The battery powered Dennis E-Series range helps turf professionals meet sustainability and environmental initiatives, minimising carbon footprint, emissions and running costs.

For many years, turf professionals have been choosing Dennis Mowers for their superb cut quality and reliability, and anticipation quickly started building when the company announced its new batterypowered range.

Leaving no stone unturned, Dennis Mowers spent three years working with carefully selected partners to develop a range of quality batterypowered equipment befitting of the Dennis badge.

The aim was to provide a reliable and long-lasting solution with the ultimate performance that helps professionals meet sustainability and environmental initiatives, reduce carbon footprint, emissions, running costs and noise without any range anxiety.

Models in the current range include the ES-860 interchangeable cassette machine, the ES-36 – a 36 inch dedicated cutting machine and the ES-34R rotary machine.

Other models are also widely anticipated over the coming months.

A robust LCD keypad screen is an integral feature of the handlebar console providing the operator with a multitude of information options including speed, clip rate, service checks, lifetime running reports and battery information.

One of the first grounds managers to purchase the E-Series was Scott Brooks, Grounds Manager at OGC Nice in France, who believes that when it comes to batterypowered cylinder mowers, there is nothing that compares to the new Dennis ES-860.

Makita XGT provides the power professionals need

Landscape professionals require high performance machines and tools to meet the daily demands of the job. Traditionally, the only option for heavy-duty tasks was petrol power.

However, Makita’s XGT 40VMax and 80VMax cordless machines provide the required performance plus all the benefits of cordless.

The growing Makita XGT range now comprises over 50 machines including more than 20 garden and grounds maintenance models.

There are XGT blowers, hedge trimmers, brush cutters, linetrimmers and split shaft multifunction tools. The range also includes 40VMax and 80VMax tools for hard landscaping tasks including circular and mitre saws, impact drivers, brad nailers and earth augers.

XGT is Makita’s most powerful cordless offering to date and provides users with the high levels of performance needed for professional use, without compromising on battery run time or charge time.

The XGT 40VMax and 80VMax machines can easily match the performance of the equivalent petrol products without the noise, emissions or challenges of storing, transporting and handling fuel.

Makita has engineered its XGT batteries for rapid charging to significantly reduce downtime and improve productivity. A 2.5Ah XGT battery will charge in just 28 minutes and a 4.0Ah battery in just 45 minutes.

To optimise run times further, the machines feature Makita’s innovative ‘BL’ brushless motor technology.

With no brushes within the motor to generate friction, there is less energy lost through heat, resulting in improved efficiency and longer run times.

This also reduces on-going maintenance costs as there is minimal wear on the motor components.

a heavy duty, shock absorbing outer casing and cell holder that protects from accidental heavy impacts.

The battery is also IPX4 rated with a triple layer waterproofing, which means it is splash and shower proof – ideal for outdoor garden and grounds maintenance work.

Finally, until 30th September 2022, customers can claim a free XGT product when purchasing qualifying XGT machines (models supplied with two 2.5Ah batteries and a charger).

Users can simply register their purchase online within the qualifying period to receive either the MR002GZ01 Bluetooth Job Site Radio (compatible with LXT, XGT and CXT batteries), MP001GZ XGT 40VMax Inflator or ML003G XGT 40VMax Worklight.

Makita’s XGT tools are also built to last. That is why XGT batteries have been built for durability with a secure connection mechanism that prevents accidental detachment and

Makita Enquiry 78

Dennis Enquiry 77

STIHL launches advance ProCOM headset

STIHL’s new ADVANCE ProCOM headset offers forestry and landscaping professionals clear and high-quality communication in noisy environments, while offering a high level of ear protection.

Using intercom mesh technology, up to 16 headsets can link automatically, allowing users to listen and communicate effectively as a team. Designed with user safety in mind, STIHL’s new innovative headset has a high attenuation value of 31 for extremely high noise protection, and is available as a headset or as an accessory for the ADVANCE X-CLIMB helmet. ADVANCE ProCOM may also be fitted to other 3M compatible helmets.

ADVANCE ProCOM has a range of up to 600m depending on the terrain, however, each headset acts as an amplifier to extend the range even further if more than two headsets are in use.

Multiple channels are available for teams working in close proximity, and users may choose the open mic setting for frequent communication, or alternatively, the push-to-talk button can be used instead to minimise background noise.

The intelligent ambient mode feature allows the user to clearly hear their surroundings and react quickly to potential dangers such as traffic or passers-by. Ambient

mode de-activates automatically when a loud noise is detected, maintaining a high level of protection when it’s most needed.

Additional features such as smartphone voice assistance, an integrated FM radio and app customisation are also included in the ADVANCE ProCOM system.

Thanks to an IP 64 protection rating users can also be assured that sweat, dirt and rain will not harm the headset’s electronics, offering complete flexibility. The headsets also feature large, ergonomic buttons for easy use and handling when wearing gloves.

STIHL Enquiry 80

Keeping dry and safe

It is not just one element that makes a DeWalt boot waterproof, but several complementing techniques and technologies that create a water tight, comfortable, and functional product to stay tough throughout the day.

A selection of quality leathers are used in the crafting of our waterproof boots, whether Nubuck or Buffalo, Crazy Horse or Full Grain, the choice of material is the first key step in creating a 100% waterproof boot.

DEWALT uses an injected TPU construction for the

outsole, and a PU material for the midsole. The choice of TPU for the outsole construction means the boot has a higher heat threshold, and also provides better wear resistance when compared to traditional rubber outsoles.

For the midsole we opt for a dual density PU material. This can include either a steel plate, or composite protection to avoid any intrusions from foreign objects around the jobsite.

A membrane ensures that the outer of the boot remains

waterproof, and allows the lining to remain breathable and pull moisture away from the foot.

HydroGuard waterproofbreathable membranes are covered in billions of microscopic pores, giving the laminate its unique waterproofbreathable properties.

The PU construction allows for better rebound properties, to provide comfort and support to the wearer, and holds those properties for a longer time.

DeWalt Enquiry 81

Durability and comfort are key

U-PRO, an online retailer of trade tools, accessories and products, has teamed up with Scruffs, the UK’s fastest-growing performance workwear brand as it expands its product offering to customers.

A hugely popular choice amongst many trades from building and construction to painting, decorating, tiling and plastering, Scruffs is renowned for its hard-wearing, longlasting clothing, boots and accessories.

As well as a wide range of Scruffs workwear and footwear, U-PRO will stock the new Scruffs switchback 3 safety boots, a brand-new addition to its hugely popular high specification safety boot range.

Husqvarna’s Technical Extreme forest jacket is designed for long work shifts in the most challenging environments.

Lightweight, breathable fabrics and pre-bent elbows increase your movability, while effective ventilation openings on the yoke and lower back keep you cool when working hard.

The jacket features high visibility fabrics and reflex bands.

It forms a comprehensive range of high quality workwear, PPE and other safety equipment and accessories.

Husqvarna Enquiry 83

U-PRO will stock the full range of Scruffs clothing which includes its popular Trade Thermo Jacket, Worker Trousers, Pro Flex Plus Holster Trousers,

Scruffs Worker Softshell Jacket as well as its brand-new safety boots, the Switchback 3.

Scruffs

Head of Playing Surfaces and Estates, Darren Baldwin knew he needed a capable and versatile range of utility vehicles to rely on. All while being electric.

He says: “We were looking for a brand that could rival the highly productive ‘mules’ in the utility vehicles category that are petrol and diesel.

“It would have been a hard hit to sacrifice productivity for

being electric, but with STAR EV we haven’t had to.

“These machines have brought everything we need and more to the role of what a utility vehicle support fleet should do.

“We have an 80-acre site and a wide range of jobs that need doing, so these machines need to perform. We haven’t had a case when they haven’t.”

The combination of a 48V 5kW AC motor, a 210Ah LithiumIon battery and a carry capacity of 670kg have particularly impressed Darren: “They are market-leading when it comes

to towing capacity, and the amount of payload they can handle competes with all the others we’ve ever used.

“The buggies give an easy 50 miles per charge and it’s a real selling point for us that they only need one charge per week on average,” he added.

In fact, Darren is so impressed with the performance he and the team has experienced so far, he’s planning on placing another order to make the club’s entire buggy fleet STAR EV.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 84

ET Lander is already an award-winner

The Etesia ET Lander utility vehicle, launched last year, has already won the SALTEX 2021 Innovation award within the vehicle category, while also finishing second within the environmentally friendly category.

Built for use on road and off road in both the town and countryside, the ET Lander is 100% electric, spacious, wellequipped and user-friendly.

It is built on a robust chassis and has an array of options including a three-way tipper bed with dual

control from the fully-fitted twoseater cab or by remote control when outside the vehicle.

With a length of just 3.72 meters, the ET Lander is very compact.

Thanks to the power steering, the short turning radius of 4.40 meters and 360° visibility, it goes anywhere.

Fitted with lead acid batteries (72V 220 Ah – producing 15.8Kw), the autonomy of the vehicle lasts for a full working day – without noise pollution.

The ET Lander can transport loads of up to 940kgs and can also tow up to 750kgs.

With its all-road tires and powerful transmission, it is a real all-terrain vehicle for use in a variety of conditions on slopes and difficult terrain.

Furthermore, life is made easier for its users through the integrated loading ramps – which allow for the transport of materials, ride-on mowers and other grounds maintenance equipment.

Etesia Enquiry 85

Tottenham Hotspur Football Club has chosen 10 electric STAR EV Capella Work Machines for use at its Training Centre in North London.

Attraxor astounds at the birthplace of rugby Birkdale launches Vento composite fence panel

Gate and fencing specialist, Birkdale has launched Vento, a new composite fence panel to provide a durable and sustainable alternative to timber.

The newest addition to the company’s popular DuraPost range, the panels are easy to install and offer a modern and stylish aesthetic.

Composite products are superior to timber when exposed to harsh weather conditions, UV rays and other environmental factors such as insects and mould. Not only this, but Vento composite fence panels have been tested to withstand winds of up to 110mph. As such, they are incredibly strong and are backed with a 15-year guarantee as standard.

What’s more, Vento is incredibly easy to install. Best matched with DuraPost galvanised steel fence posts,

simply fix three horizontal aluminium cross rails between the pre-installed DuraPosts. These cross rails enable the composite boards to slot into place and be firmly secured, removing the need for fixings. This enables a quick and high-

quality installation process. For the finishing touch, complete the installation with a range of accessories such as DuraPost gravel boards, capping rails and post caps.

Birkdale Enquiry 99

The sports pitches at Rugby School in Warwickshire are benefitting from a stronger sward after Attraxor plant growth regulator was recommended and supplied by Agrovista Amenity.

Three years ago, the team decided to incorporate Attraxor plant growth regulator into their maintenance programme. It was a decision which has proved to be considerably successful.

Attraxor, a BASF product, is a plant growth regulator containing the active substance, prohexadione and can be used to regulate growth of all managed amenity turf.This active substance inhibits the Giberrelic acid pathway, which results in a reduction of turf height and turf biomass. Root growth is promoted whilst turf colour and quality are maintained.

Agrovista Amenity Enquiry 100