Landscape & Amenity Product Update October 2021

Lottery funding secured for Future Proof Parks campaign

The project is also working with friends’ groups to give them the tools, encouragement, and support to get more local young people involved in their work and benefit from cross-generational working. To support volunteers inexperienced at involving young people, a series of How-To guides has been published introducing Friends of Parks working with young people in green spaces.

“Local parks have been vital over the last year, we must make sure they will always be there for the whole community and for future generationshelping to restore the natural world and providing safe places to meet friends and neighbours.

“To make that happen we have to ensure the next generation of volunteers are included and empowered to get involved now and become future leaders.”

There is an urgent need to recruit young volunteers to care for and maintain UK parks if they are to meet the needs of current and future generations, according to Future Proof Parks - a partnership between Groundwork, Fields in Trust and National Youth Agency.

They say it is vital that we act now to recruit the next generation

of volunteers, representative of the communities that enjoy and benefit from the UK’s parks and green spaces.

A new series of free How-To guides have been published supporting friends of parks groups to recruit more young volunteers.

Future Proof Parks is a National Lottery Heritage Fund programme

– part of the £10m ‘Kick the Dust’ initiative –which aims to get more young people involved in preserving their local park and green space heritage. Throughout the programme young people have learned about their local historic parks and have been encouraged to join their local ‘friends of’ groups, volunteering to preserve the local spaces that matter to the communities they live in.

UK unveiling of RoviMo

The GGM Group hosted the prestigious UK unveiling of a ground-breaking Cylinder Cassette Mower for Professional Sports Turf.

The event, which was held at Manchester City FC Training Ground, showcased the RoviMo robotic mower for sports turf, saving potentially thousands of man hours in the maintenance of sports fields and stadiums.

The RoviMo is the world’s first intelligent electric vehicle capable of mowing patterns autonomously according to the guidelines of national football associations, UEFA, or FIFA, precisely and over the shortest distance, horizontally, vertically and with chessboard pattern, at the touch of a button.

Group Enquiry 2

Fields in Trust Chief Executive Helen Griffiths said: “We are all thankful to the volunteers who helped maintain our parks throughout lockdown and now, coming out of the pandemic, we can all play our part to make sure local green spaces will remain a healthy part of the local environment contributing to our wellbeing, our community connections and mitigating the impact of climate change.

The wellbeing value associated with frequent use of parks and green spaces is worth £34.2 billion per year to the UK adult population and is estimated to save the NHS around £111 million per year through a reduction in GP visits.

Fields in Trust Enquiry 1

Consultation on harmful plant pests and diseases

The industry is being encouraged to help shape the country’s future plant biosecurity strategy, as a 10-week consultation is launched to protect the country from the threat of plant pests and diseases.

The joint Defra, Scottish and Welsh Government consultation sets out a new vision for plant health and potential measures to strengthen the existing biosecurity regime.

Launching the consultation from RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Minister for Biosecurity Lord Benyon said: “The threat from plant pests and diseases is significant and growing due to globalisation and climate change.

The risks to food production and our precious landscapes, trees, parks and gardens are all too real.

“We already have some of the highest biosecurity standards in Europe but as we look to build back greener from the pandemic, we want to consider any further safeguards needed to protect our natural world.

“That’s why we’re asking for views from all sectors, including horticulture, forestry and farming, to help us shape our future biosecurity strategy and ensure our trees and plants are protected for future generations.”

Defra Enquiry 3

GGM

It feels like it has been a long time coming, but it is finally here. Welcome to our SALTEX Preview issue! The two-day 2021 event is due to get underway at NEC Birmingham on November 3rd and it will be a great chance for the industry to reunite, network and discuss the latest trends and innovations.

As our preview pages will show, there will be plenty of launches during the two days as manufacturers and organisations will be unveiling a wide range of new products and services. It shows that innovation, R&D and product development remains a key feature of the industry and also highlights how progressive it remains. Far from consolidating, the industry has continued to move forward during the pandemic and the exhibition halls will be full of new equipment and there will be technical experts on hand to discuss new products and services that will maintain the UK’s position as a global leader.

The GMA will also be delivering another impressive programme or education, lively discussion and interesting debate on the issues and challenges facing the industry, as well as best practice and what the future holds in store. It will be an interesting two days at the NEC and the team from TSP Media hope to see as many of you as possible on the Landscape & Amenity Product Update stand – E97 Elsewhere this month,

Paul Groves, Editor

Investment in public sport and leisure facilities and services is key to levelling up the health of the nation, tackling health inequalities and supporting climate change targets, a new report supported by the Local Government Association sets out.

The new report, Securing the Future of Public Sport and Leisure Services published in partnership with the Association for Public Service Excellence (APSE) and Chief Cultural and Leisure Officers Association (CLOA) evaluates the current state of public sport and leisure services and sets out recommendations to ensure the survival and development of the sector.

Councils are currently the biggest investor in sport,

leisure, parks and green spaces, spending £1.1 billion per year in England.

They are unique in what they offer for communities, providing lifelong opportunities for all to be active while supporting national objectives and stepping in where the private sector cannot afford to operate.

Public sport and leisure facilities also play an essential role in giving children the best start in life.

The LGA is calling for next month’s Spending Review to include £1 billion in capital investment into the leisure estate to bring it up to modern design and environmental standards. Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, Chair

public sport and leisure facilities vital

of the LGA’s Culture, Tourism and Sport Board, said: “Councils have demonstrated, more than ever, that they are best placed to deliver services at pace for their local communities, if empowered and resourced to do so.

“Public sport and leisure facilities and services are a part of the social infrastructure of the nation.

“With the right investment and Government support, councils can do far more to maximise the benefits of sport and leisure services and build on their existing work to level up their communities, from improving health, to reducing emissions and driving regeneration.”

Local Government Association Enquiry 6

The Amenity Forum is the UK Voluntary Initiative promoting best practice in all aspects of the management of amenity spaces and sports surfaces.

It seeks to bring together all who work in this diverse and essential sector providing support and guidance and acting as an independent link between the sector and policy makers. The Annual Report for 2021 covers the year up to the end of July this year.

Whilst a report on activities, it also provides information on how the sector has progressed in meeting UK targets and identifies key issues facing all involved in, what without any doubt, are extremely challenging times.

Writing in the Report, the Forum’s independent chairman, Professor John Moverley OBE says ‘’Even without the implications of the Pandemic, this has certainly been another year full of change, challenge and opportunity for the Forum. There is much going on at policy level with the UK Government finalising its review of the National Action Plan and a further review of pesticide policy ongoing. The Forum is fully contributing to the process where requested and appropriate with UK and national governments and indeed all involved in policy making and implementation.

“The report shows that the Forum continues to respond to a wide range of consultations and has been fully engaged with partners and all stakeholders dealing with the implications of the pandemic. The role of amenity managers during this time has been essential maintaining our transport networks, parks and more. It has not been easy working conditions and they deserve all our thanks.

“It is important to ensure the debate is not an either or but based on an integrated approach making use of all the tools available in the most effective way. The year has also seen the debate widened to take account of the environmental costs of different approaches particularly in determining carbon sums from the various methods employed. Out of change inevitably comes challenge - but the professional amenity sector is robust and ready. There is much to be proud of in the professionalism of our sector.”

The report identifies that some key priorities in the year have been in assisting everyone engaged to further develop integrated management approaches, promoting the sector wide Amenity Standard and to significantly increasing communications both to the public and within the sector. The full report is available on the Amenity Forum website.

The report identifies that there is much change ahead and in this regard the timing of the 2021 Amenity Forum conference, to be held on October 21st, could not be better and its title ‘Facing the Future’ very apt indeed including some eminent speakers and good opportunity to network and catch up on developments in the exhibition area.

Kubota launches latest mower generation UK’s “original green economy” could be worth £42bn by 2030

The ornamental horticulture and landscaping industry is set to contribute nearly £42 billion to the UK and support over 760,000 jobs by 2030, according to a landmark report.

The independent ‘Growing a Green Economy: The importance of ornamental horticulture and landscaping to the UK’ report was commissioned by the Ornamental Horticulture Roundtable Group (OHRG).

It found the industry could be worth £13bn more than in 2019 and support an extra 100,000 jobs. The report showcases an industry with the potential to make a huge contribution to the UK’s economic, social, and environmental renewal over the next decade.

The research identifies how barriers to growth can be unlocked through a collaborative approach between government and industry, ensuring the sector is at the forefront of exciting new trade opportunities, can develop the skills for our future workforce, and lead the way on environmental sustainability.

The ornamental horticulture and landscaping industry already underpins almost half of the government’s 25 Year Environment Plan.

With 30 million gardeners and millions more utilising green spaces, the sector is eager to play an ever-increasing role in achieving ambitious climate change targets – particularly in the build up to the UN COP26

Climate Conference – as well as playing a significant role in growing the UK economy.

Alongside the report, the OHRG has also published a detailed action plan ‘Unlocking green growth’, outlining what policy changes are needed and how the industry and government can work together to bring the socio-economic research findings to reality.

This includes increasing UK plant and tree production to ‘build back greener’ and the wider ambitions around how the industry can help the government meet its environmental sustainability targets.

The action plan also sets out other areas for future potential collaboration with government including on how ‘green trade’ can be increased, how planners can better incorporate green

space; how outdoor space can lead to urban renewal and improved health; and how we can develop future workforce skills.

Researched and written by Oxford Economics and Foresight Factory, the ‘Growing a Green Economy’ report builds on previous analysis that found the industry was worth £28.8 billion in 2019.

The British public’s embrace of outdoor green space during the pandemic, as well as the industry’s role in combating climate change, are contributory factors to the industry being projected to be worth £13 billion more by 2030.

Horticultural Trades Association Enquiry 9

Kubota has updated its renowned F series front mowers, with the F391 offering a host of new features to further increase its performance and productivity.

It joins the F251 introduced earlier in the year, with this duo of tough, powerful ride-on mowers providing the ideal solution for commercial mowing.

Kubota has also introduced a new version of its G261 ride-on mower designed to offer productivity and convenience where collection is not required.

The G261 RD is available with a 1.2m (48in) rear discharge rotary deck with optional mulching kit and has a travel speed up to 19kph -the fastest in the industry - giving high outputs in a variety of amenity applications including parks, sportsfields and open spaces.

Powered by the latest 38hp Kubota Stage V engine, the F391 is designed to give the ultimate in output, operator comfort and practicality, continuing and enhancing the F series’ position as the choice of professionals for parks, open spaces and local authority work.

Meeting the latest emission control standards, the fourcylinder Kubota diesel engine provides the power to tackle the toughest mowing jobs, all day long; a 61 litre fuel tank gives long intervals between fill-ups.

Meanwhile, powered by a 25hp Kubota Stage V engine, the G261 RD has a new hydrostatic transmission with cruise control, offering extra traction and grip, plus a differential lock for ease of operation and confident performance on sloping terrain.

An electromagnetic pto clutch makes for improved transmission of power and smooth engagement of the deck; for further ease of use, independent height of cut control gives mowing height selection from 25-102mm.

The rear discharge deck has been adapted from Kubota’s wellregarded BX compact tractor and thus has a very strong and robust design. Versatility is added with the option of a mulching kit – the G261 RD can handle lush, long grass in rear discharge format, or give a really clean finish on shorter grass, mulching the clippings and returning valuable organic matter to the soil. The F391 will be available from Kubota dealers at the end of the year. The G261 RD will be available from Kubota dealers in October.

Kubota Enquiry 10

IFLA publishes climate action commitment

A new global commitment from the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) is galvanising landscape architects across the globe to champion environmental sustainability and combat climate change.

The 2021 report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) contains ‘unequivocal’ evidence that human-influenced global warming is widespread and intensifying. To mitigate the worst outcomes, we must act now to drastically cut carbon emissions within the coming decade.

IFLA believes the key to solving the climate crisis is in the reduction of emissions, the resilience and transformation of human society, and the sustainability of the natural environment. IFLA’s Climate

Action Commitment outline six key areas for the profession to take climate action, and calls upon allied professions to help strengthen our actions through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Through planning, design and management, landscape interventions protect, restore and enhance global ecosystems, foster human health and wellbeing, cool the environment, and draw down atmospheric carbon.

“Thinking globally but acting locally is critical,” said IFLA President James Hayter. “As landscape architects, we can make a tremendous difference to climate change and to climate action through our work.”

Landscape Institute Enquiry 12

Equestrian excellence from Mansfield Sand

SE Hill, a highly regarded company which specialises in the design and construction of equestrian manege facilities, has revealed why it has relied on Mansfield Sand products for over fifteen years.

Over the years SE Hill has built a reputation of a company that can deliver a professional and reliable service. As well as providing drainage, access tracks, earthworks and landscaping and numerous other constructions works, the company also specialises in equestrian facilities – and that is where Mansfield Sand comes in.

“We’ve been working with Mansfield Sand and have been using their products for over fifteen years,” said Managing Director Steve Hill. “I wouldn’t dream of using anyone else.”

Steve relies on Fibresand and Equestrian Silica Sand for his various manege projects.

Fibresand is a simple but highly effective concept, of using synthetic fibres to stabilise a silica sand in order to produce a free draining yet relatively firm, sure footing surface.

The rot proof, polypropylene fibres stabilise the silica sand by providing a high degree of resistance to sand particle movement when the surface is subjected to compressive and/ or shear forces from the horses’ hooves. Fibresand is a cost effective, durable and resistant surface which works as an excellent base layer that is free draining with a sure footing.

Alternatively, Equestrian Silica Sand provides an excellent riding surface which is free draining. Ideally suited as a base sand, it is recommended that the Equestrian Silica be incorporated into a fibre stabilising product to provide structure and further stability.

Mansfield Sand Enquiry 14

The Eden Project to re-imagine Morecambe’s seaside

TEP (The Environment Partnership) has completed landscape designs to support the planning application for the Eden Project’s new venture: Eden Project North in Morecambe, Lancashire.

TEP has been working alongside a talented multidisciplinary design team, including the Eden Project’s own designers, Grimshaw, Buro Happold and WSP.

The Eden Project has a truly holistic vision for its £125 million regenerative Eden Project North in Morecambe, which was submitted for planning at the end of August and is due to open in 2024.

The project will showcase sustainable design, reimagining the British seaside resort for the 21st century, and is expected to attract around one million visitors a year, directly employing more than 400 people and bringing an estimated visitor spend of more than £200m per year to the region.

TEP has also completed a Townscape and Seascape Visual Impact Assessment, Ecological Assessment, Verified Photomontage and Arboricultural Implications Assessment to support the application.

TEP Enquiry 13

Toro’s

More finance

Stride out in the all-new work trousers from Snickers Workwear

features ensure maximum working mobility while the loose or slim fit designs deliver maximum working comfort all day, every day.

With great ergonomic fit and superb value for money there’s optional features such as detachable holsters, Canvas+ fabrics for durablility and Cordura reinforcements for extra durability. You can also choose trousers with or without the KneeGuard Pro System which will deliver certified knee protection if you need it.

Agrovista Amenity boosts export potential

Agrovista Amenity has further underlined its commitment to export by becoming a corporate member of the Institute of Export & International Trade.

Since Agrovista Amenity was launched many UK customers have benefited from a wider breadth of innovative products and specialist technical expertise. UK sport is a global spectacle and sets the standard for first class agronomy intelligence and natural playing surfaces.

Snickers Workwear is continuing to make great strides in Work Trousers design and functionality while still increasing its commitment to environmental responsibility.

Sustainable fabrics, bodymapping designs and improved performance are key features in the all-New Work trousers

for men and women. Wherever they’re working, whenever they’re on task and whatever the weather, there’s a pair of trousers to suit.

There’s new designs for both men and women with unrivalled functionality in the AllroundWork and FlexiWork ranges. The 4-Way Stretch

Check out all the Work Trousers at snickersworkwear. co.uk – for the optimal choice for craftsmen and women who need to get every job done comfortably and efficiently on site.

Snickers Workwear Enquiry 16

There is, however, increasing pressure on grounds managers to produce the best playing surfaces and this in turn sees more demand for companies like Agrovista Amenity to provide new and innovative technologies.With an experienced and motivated management team, the plan was always to explore new opportunities, and export was high on the agenda for Agrovista Amenity. Although a vast range of the company’s products have already made an impression in

Dennis & SISIS announce partnership with Bowls England

Dennis & SISIS and Bowls England have announced a new five-year partnership which is aimed at improving playing surfaces, increasing participation and helping to safeguard the future of the sport.

Passionate about helping everyone get the most out of the sport, Bowls England recently unveiled a new strategy, ‘Fit For The Future’, which has been designed with the ultimate goal of getting more people playing

and enjoying bowls. However, to entice more people into the sport, there must be a focus on the playing conditions; and this is where Dennis and SISIS come in according to Bowls England’s Chief Executive Jon Cockcroft.

“What is absolutely critical for us is that the bowling greens up and down the country are in superb condition for people to play on,” he said. “Over recent years there has been more strain on our clubs, and the challenges of maintaining

greens are becoming greater. Consequently, this partnership with Dennis and SISIS will allow us to support our clubs, and our amazing volunteers, who work tirelessly to look after the greens.

“The partnership will add value to our members and ultimately improving the quality of the surfaces is going to make the playing experience better which will help grow our game and get more people playing bowls.”

Also committed to educating greenkeepers and raising the standards of bowling greens, Dennis and SISIS have long supported the sport of bowls. For over 20 years, they have been organising and hosting educational maintenance seminars throughout the country which are designed to ultimately help club greenkeepers and volunteers maintain their bowling greens.

Dennis Enquiry 18

various global markets, Export Manager Tom Challinor has revealed that the plan is to go even further.

“We want to grow export and the potential is absolutely there,” he said. “In the UK we are already one of the biggest amenity providers and now is the time to push on globally. I am fully focused on gradually building the export side of the business.”

With the company’s focus on sustainability, products such as those in Agrovista Amenity’s

WhiptecBio range are becoming more sought after – especially due to the global initiative to reduce plastic waste. WhiptecBio tree and hedge guards are perfect for European nurseries and landscapers.

Agrovista Amenity’s diverse product range gives international customers a ‘one stop shop’ supplying everything from fertilisers, bio stimulants and micronutrients through to line marking paint, professional tools and equipment.

Agrovista Amenity Enquiry 17

ICL Speciality Fertilizers expands team

ICL Specialty Fertilizers has appointed Matt Conradie as Area Sales Manager in the UK to help develop and grow the specialty portfolio in the agriculture segment.

ICL’s Business Lead for Western Europe Sander Selten said that ICL is delighted to welcome Matt to its expanding team.

“The experience of Matt in specialty fertilizers is considerable. Matt worked in the past as regional manager for Omnia Fertilizers and we welcome his extensive product knowledge to the team. With Matt on board we will be better positioned to promote the ICL technologies in controlled and water soluble fertilizers to the UK growers and farmers.

ICL is dedicated to helping growers and farmers increase productivity and profit by growing better quality crops, all in a more sustainable way. Bringing new skills and expertise into the business will help us to meet this commitment.”

State-of-the-art solutions in Urban Paving Re-pointing

Green space seating for pop-up park

The paving through the Peace Gardens has been successfully refurbished for the long-term, by Sheffield City Council using GftK’s vdw 850 Paving Joint Mortar.

The natural stone paving was becoming loose and subject to damage due to the cracking and loss of strength problems associated with both traditional and proprietary, pre-bagged cement based jointing mortars, which had all been tried without success.

The Council’s Engineers found the ideal solution was GftK’s unique, epoxy resin coated, and bound sand based, vdw 850 Paving Joint Mortar from NCC Streetscape.

This also enabled the repointing work to be completed without disruptive closures and without any delays due to the weather.

The installation process is also simple - the areas were high pressure water jet cleaned, any loose stone setts were replaced, and then the joints were wetslurry pointed, as GftK’s vdw 850 effectively self-compacts into the joints, with no tooling required.

Finally, the stone surfaces were rinsed, dry brushedoff and within a short time reopened for public access.

Enquiry 22

Contamination Expo 2021 a success for Green-tree Soils

Green-tech took a stand at the 2021 Contamination & Geotech Expo and exhibited under its soils brand, Greentree.

Contamination Expo, held at the NEC in Birmingham, is the first big trade show that Greentech has attended since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Green-tree’s Clean Cover System is a remedial and effective solution for contaminated land, regeneration projects and the development of brown-field sites.

It reduces the hazard to human health or the environment from potential contaminants found on these types of sites.

By incorporating this Clean Cover System into initial plans, brown-field projects can progress with reduced excavation works whilst providing a long-term solution for the development.

Green-tree is a well-respected brand manufacturing and distributing a range of soils and growing media.

Their products are all manufactured using organic compost and overburdened sand from quarries; products that would otherwise end up in landfill.

Green-tree soils are used in landscaping and construction projects where environmental sustainability is important.

The innovative Green-tree Clean Cover System is a combination of manufactured British Standard topsoil and subsoil which are both chemically clean.

The resultant growing medium is tested to CLEA requirements, with very low-level chemical metal and metalloid content and clear of asbestos content.

Green-tech Enquiry 23

Permeable paving and trees in harmony

The July 2021 National Planning Policy Framework requires that: ‘planning policies and decisions should ensure that new streets are tree-lined…and appropriate measures are in place to secure the long-term maintenance of newly-planted trees.’

Concrete block permeable paving offers a simple solution to these requirements, working in harmony with urban trees.

Urban trees and paving have traditionally been seen as in conflict.

But this is not the case with concrete block permeable paving (CBPP), a key multifunctional sustainable drainage (SuDS) technique to reduce flood risk and make cities more liveable.

CBPP offers unique opportunities to collect, attenuate and treat rainwater

runoff, removing pollutants ready for irrigating trees and other planting.

Recent research has demonstrated concrete block permeable paving operating efficiently with minimal maintenance over 20-years amongst extensive tree planting, without root disruption or other issues.

Local planning authorities now need to incorporate long-term sustenance and maintenance measures for trees in planning consents.

Concrete block permeable paving provides a straightforward spatial solution – rather than complex legal obligations on developers – with a gradual supply of clean water to irrigate green infrastructure, integrated with SuDS, hard surfaces and urban design.

Retrofitting CBPP as a lowintervention overlay to existing road bases or other hard surfaces is an important innovation for regeneration.

The permeable paving collects water across a wide area for supply horizontally into raingardens or bioretention areas with trees and other green infrastructure.

Here it is stored for irrigation and biodiversity, while also delivering SuDS. This approach is exemplified in the regeneration of Bridget Joyce Square, London.

Recent inspection, around 5 years after completion, revealed that trees and other green infrastructure were healthy, substantial and particularly wellestablished, with the permeable paving working effectively.

Interpave

Marshalls Landscape Protection, part of hard landscaping manufacturer Marshalls Group, has designed, manufactured and installed inclusive outdoor seating as part of a Leeds City Council pop-up park, creating a welcome green space in the centre’s busiest shopping street.

Created using Marshalls Landscape Protection’s Distrikt timber seating range, the new seating area is located on an artificial grass installation located on Briggate - the busiest shopping street in Leeds.

Accessibility has been considered carefully too so that anyone can use the seating. Meeting DDA best practice, the design features strategically positioned armrests so that wheelchair users can transfer easily. At the opposite end, backrests have been incorporated to enable elderly users to sit down and stand up more easily.

Made in Britain, the Distrikt range is a customisable timber seating range.

Unlimited options such as seating direction, arm rests and backs mean a free flowing seating arrangement can be configured as long as the project requirements.

The Distrikt range’s hardwood seating slats are manufactured using FSC-certified Iroko Timber, which includes a certified chain of custody that tracks materials and products through every stage in the supply chain.

Supporting the slats is a steel structure with loop legs. The mild steel components are available in a wide range of RAL colours with unlimited customisation options.

Marshalls Landscape Protection Enquiry 24

NCC Streetscape

Marshalls Landscape Protection, part of hard landscaping manufacturer Marshalls Group, is delighted to introduce the latest addition to its Active Travel Solutions range: the new Cycle Segregation Unit, designed to help create safer and more accessible urban spaces for cyclists.

The Cycle Segregation Unit has been developed to help local authorities, specifiers and highways professionals deliver on this campaign by creating safer and more sustainable travel infrastructure, as well as encouraging a more active approach to commuting in local communities.

Manufactured from concrete and with a smooth grey finish, Marshall’s Cycle Segregation Unit is a versatile

Marshalls

kerb solution, designed to act as a demarcation tool and safely segregate cyclists from trafficked areas.

With a 45-degree splayed profile on the cycleway side, the unit provides a soft transition between the carriageway and the cycle lane, while also enabling cyclists of all abilities to use the cycleway without fear of colliding with a steep kerb. Meanwhile, the outside kerb side features a bullnose profile, intended to stop vehicles from mounting the unit and potentially endangering the cyclist.

Designed to be installed in both new or existing schemes where the highway requires a redesign, the concrete segregation unit requires minimal maintenance and is compliant with the

DuraPost features on ITV’s Love Your Garden

performance levels set out in the European Standard BS EN: 1340.

Marshalls Landscape Protection offers a number of Active Travel Solutions to enable the creation of safer and more inviting urban spaces for cyclists and pedestrians, including lane delineation, traffic calming and social distancing solutions.

Marshalls Landscape Protection Enquiry 26

The innovative, galvanised steel fence post system, DuraPost By Birkdale has recently featured on ITV’s Love your Garden as part of a much-needed renovation.

The episode aired on Tuesday 14th of September and the DuraPost system was one of the building materials chosen to drastically improve the aesthetics and longevity of a family garden in Middlesbrough.

The renovation was undertaken to improve the outside space belonging to Phillipa or ‘Pip’, her husband John and two-year-old son Harrison. Pip was employed as a chef in the navy, but her career was cut short by the onset of a rare genetic condition, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. She has since dedicated herself to others, from running soup kitchens, helping disadvantaged children, to supporting causes for disabled people.

The

As well as having a modern and stylish fence solution, Pip and her family will also benefit from DuraPost’s durability. Tested to withstand wind speeds of up to 110 miles per hour, the system is not vulnerable to the issues usually associated with traditional timber or concrete fence posts, such as cracking or rotting, because it is manufactured from cold rolled galvanised steel. Requiring no maintenance over its lifespan, Birkdale offers the system with a 25-year guarantee.

Furthermore, DuraPost is also a sustainable choice as it is made from 50% recycled steel and is 100% recyclable at the end of its usable life.

Love Your Garden team selected DuraPost and trained DuraPost installer David Massey,

of Massey Garden Design, fitted the system in Anthracite Grey. This was completed along with matching DuraPost gravel boards, capping rails, post caps and cover strips to complement the overall garden design.

Birkdale Enquiry 27

Winners of the 2021 National Landscape Awards announced and tickets on sale

No other Awards for designers and contractors demand the level of professional excellence expected by the National Landscape Awards judging panel.

Every construction and design project entered was visited personally by a judge throughout July and August and scrutinised individually.

If that’s not enough, the judges jointly deliberated each decision at a three-day long meeting to ensure consensus that the winners really do represent the very best in landscape construction and design.

The team at Landscape House, the board of directors and the Judging Panel wish

to congratulate every BALI member who has won a 2021 National Landscape Award and extends its thanks to every member that entered this year.

Principals, Specials and the coveted Grand Award winner will be announced at this year’s ceremony which will be returning to JW Marriott Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London on Friday 3rd December.

This marks the return of the National Landscape Awards’ live ceremony so demand for tickets will be high, ensure you visit baliawards.co.uk today to confirm your place at the largest landscape Awards in Europe.

BALI Enquiry 29

years supporting our environment

Autumn sow for a Spring show

Flowers are a valuable resource for enriching the urban environment, supporting bio-diversity, producing stunning vistas welcoming visitors along roadside entrances to towns and cities, roundabouts, parks and housing developments, in cemeteries, around sub stations and wasteland.

They can also substitute for grass in some areas that would routinely require maintenance, for example mowing and allow labour resources to be directed elsewhere.

In addition, sowing a variety of mixes will ensure a longer seasonal supply of nectar and pollen and support a more diverse range of habitats for pollinating insects.

Euroflor 100% flower seed, unlike “wildflower” seed, is germination tested just like grass seed and similarly requires sufficient temperature and adequate moisture to germinate and establish.

Low maintenance comes from just one cut per year in autumn after seeds have ripened and fallen and a sowing rate of just 3g per square metre means 1kg of Euroflor covers approximately 333 square metres, making it an extremely cost-effective.

Euroflor mixes recommended for autumn sowing for flowering the following year: Alliance; Boulevard; Cornfield Annuals; Cornflowers; Endurance; Flora Britannica; Native Pollinator; Poppies; Rainbow Perennials; and Spring Flower.

The advantages of Autumn sowing include

1. Earlier flowering displays the following year

2. Advantageous for perennial mixes which first flower the year after sowing

3. Perfect time for sowing 100% native & naturalised species

4. Reduces the impact of spring climatic variability such as drought or late frosts

Sow Euroflor mixes at 3-4g per square metre in late August –September (north & east), late August – mid October (south & west). Apply a pre-seed organic based fertiliser such as Apex 4-6-4, particularly if soil fertility is impoverished. Ensure seeds are in good contact with the soil and keep seed and seedlings moist until well established.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 30

Instarmac a world leader in health and safety practice

Instarmac Group PLC are celebrating after landing an internationally recognised award for demonstrating high health and safety standards for the ninth consecutive year.

Organisations receiving a RoSPA Gold Medal Award are recognised as being world-leaders in health and safety practice, ensuring their colleagues, customers, clients and contractors all get home safely to their families at the end of every working day.

Emma Kavanagh, QHSE Compliance Manager for Instarmac commented: “The health and safety of our colleagues, customers and visitors has always been of the utmost importance to everyone

at Instarmac, but never more so than in the last 12-18 months. We have introduced a number of additional safety measures throughout the building to ensure we keep everyone as safe as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are particularly proud of the automatic temperature screening and sanitising dispensing system we have installed at every entrance which has helped minimise infection as much as possible.We are delighted to have been awarded with the RoSPA Gold Medal for the ninth year and are now one step closer towards our goal of winning a President’s Award for 10 consecutive Gold Awards.”

Landscaped garden features automatic irrigation solution

When the owner of a property in Lower Shiplake decided to landscape the rear garden, he called upon the services of designer and contractor Grepne Landscaping.

One of the major requirements of the project was a fully automatic irrigation system to protect the investment in plants and shrubs by ensuring they would receive the correct amount of water throughout the year, whatever the weather.

Site visits were arranged with Tom Grepne and Richard Jones

of Rigby Taylor, Rain Bird UK distributor. The proposed solution featured multiple irrigation zones, each with its own solenoid valve, to provide irrigation for separate areas of the garden with differing watering requirements.

The Rain Bird ESP- RZXe model was selected as the irrigation controller and was chosen for its flexible scheduling capabilities, ease of set-up and use.

Zone based scheduling allows each valve to be scheduled

independently with the easyto-read LCD graphic display showing all the programming for each zone simultaneously.

Rigby Taylor conducted flow tests and set up the programs on the controller which has been conveniently wall mounted in the garage. Irrigation is set for early each morning to prevent any evaporation during the course of the day.

With the Rain Bird LNK WiFi communication module installed, the ESP-RZXe links to both a rain sensor and the Rain Bird App on Ian’s phone.

The rain sensor ensures unnecessary irrigation is prevented whilst the App gives Ian the convenience of overriding preset programs to make weather based adjustments and stop/start irrigation remotely from anywhere.

Careful calculation of the precipitation rates and throw distance of sprinklers was required to ensure complete and uniform coverage.

Discreet Rain Bird R-Van adjustable rotary nozzles with variable arc have been selected in combination with 1800 Series Pop-Up sprinklers of different body heights to give complete coverage.

XFD Surface Dripline has been installed around the mulched borders to provide irrigation exactly where it is needed. A pressure regulator has been included to ensure the Dripline is protected from fluctuations in water pressure.

Rain Bird Enquiry 33

DuraPost wins contract for major development

but also incredibly strong, to deliver maximum durability.

DuraPost ® has been tested by the Building Research Establishment Ltd (BRE) so it is proven to withstand winds of up to 110 mph.

PAR Homes has specified DuraPost fence posts for its new Beacons Gate development in Brecon, Wales.

Although the housebuilder had planned to install concrete fence posts, the team discovered DuraPost, a solution that would signifi cantly improve speed of installation and maintain its durability.

The company discovered DuraPost By Birkdale and the PAR Homes team visited Caerfagu Products, their local building supplier.

Manafactured from galvanised steel, DuraPost offers a solution that is 80% lighter than concrete but no less resistant to harsh weather.

The steel is cut and rolled through a specially made die to create a unique, patented H-section profile. This ensures that it is not only lightweight

Available in various powdercoated finishes, DuraPost affords customers a range of choice to suit any desired aesthetic, as well as a range of complementary colour matched accessories, such as post caps, capping rails and gravel boards.

Birkdale Enquiry 34

Irrigation solution for rooftop planting scheme Building professionals urged to visualise landscaping opportunity

Visualiser tools, such as ACO’s Building + Landscaper Visualiser, can help landscapers to stand out from the crowd by showcasing creative ideas and bringing designs to life.

Darren Crane, National Sales Manager Independent Merchants & Buying Groups at ACO Water Management, comments: “These latest figures support something that we have been seeing for a while now.

“People expect more from their gardens than ever before – it is increasingly an extension of their home that can be tailored to meet whatever demands they might have.

“From a drainage perspective, this has meant a real drive towards products that not only perform their water management function, but look great too.

Getting to grips with the latest trends will help to further distinguish landscapers and building professionals. Patina finishes, for example, are increasing in popularity, and can be achieved through ACO’s CorTen finish.

This provides a characteristic rusty appearance onto ACOs Threshold Drain product. It is important to understand how this type of product can help to meet a homeowner’s expectations for the final design.

ACO Water Management Enquiry 36

Having the kudos of being London’s first all-electric building, 80 Charlotte Street is rated BREEAM 2014 Excellent and is on track to achieve LEED 2009 Gold, meaning that this cutting-edge building is expected to consume 25% less energy and generate 34% lower greenhouse gas emissions than the average commercial building.

This impressive green performance is achieved whilst retaining much of the existing structure and facades and combining it with new.

One of the main goals for the building’s designers, MAKE Architects, was to engender a strong sense of wellbeing for the office workers, residents and public that use it.

As part of this commitment, the design allowed the inclusion of numerous roof terraces, both

private and shared for the offices and residents, offering dramatic views over Fitzrovia including the BT Tower.

Green-tech were contacted by Barton Willmore landscape architects to quote for irrigation for the many planters that were required on two of the external terraces; part of a design developed by Piercy & Company Architects for a specific high-end tenant fit-out.

The most effective solution was to use Green-tech’s Mona tank system. This subterranean reservoir system irrigates the soil through capillary action, reducing watering frequency whilst at the same time, aerating the soil.

With sizes from 3 to 24 litres, the Mona tanks can either be used individually or linked together in line, for beds and longer runs.

Each tank has two capillary legs that are back-filled with soil and reach down into the water inside the reservoir.

Once filled via the filler pipe the tanks act as a reservoir, supplying water to the rooting soil via capillary action. As the water is taken up, the empty space is replaced by air through the filler pipe, acting as both irrigation and aeration. If the surrounding soil

is damp, the tanks do nothing and the water is stored – once the soil dries out, the water is taken up by capillary action into the soil, keeping it moist.

Over 200 tanks were supplied to the Landscape Contractors, Oasis Plants for the terrace planters, ensuring that the plants are kept well irrigated all year round.

Green-tech Enquiry 37

Kasco fountain impresses at Royal Aberdeen

Robert Patterson, Course Manager at the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, has explained how a Kasco decorative fountain has improved the health of the water and brought a certain elegance to a picturesque pond on the course.

Always striving for perfection, no stone is ever left unturned, and this was certainly the case when he decided to explore the possibility of aerating a pond in a prominent position on the course.

Robert identified the Kasco J Series Decorative Fountains as the solution. Ranging from ¾ HP to 7.5 HP, there is a Kasco J Series Fountain perfect for any size pond or lake.

The corrosion and clog resistant technology offer reliability that is

unparalleled by any other outdoor fountain brand. All J Series Fountains come with multiple nozzles that deliver classy, elegant spray patterns.

In addition to enhancing the class and elegance of your pond or lake these fountains will improve the health of your water with increased oxygen transfer. Kasco’s outdoor fountains are designed and built to deliver reliable and efficient performance, meaning lower long-term operating costs.

The Kasco Fountain was supplied and installed by Turf Irrigation Services, and Robert hasn’t looked back since. Kasco products are distributed in the UK by KAR UK.

KAR UK Enquiry 38

Since having a new Toro irrigation system installed in 2019, Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club’s course has seen a “remarkable improvement” according to course and estates manager James Bledge.

“The new Toro irrigation system has been a huge success,” explains James. “We’ve reached the top100golfcourses. com world rankings for the first time ever, which we can in part attribute to the remarkable improvement the course has seen thanks to Toro irrigation.”

Part of James’ drive to continuously improve the course, March 2019 saw Royal Cinque Ports install a Toro Lynx Central Control System and Infinity sprinklers on the greens, surrounds, approaches and fairways with B Series sprinklers

on the tees and T5 and PRN combinations on the walkways. The installation came shortly after another Toro machinery fleet agreement, so had the added bonus of securing the club’s position as a Toro Total Solutions customer.

With the installation completed by one of the leading golf construction companies MJ Abbott, both the installation process, and the support from Reesink Turfcare since has impressed James.

Turfcare Enquiry 40

Reesink

SALTEX 2021 SHOW PREVIEW

Time to celebrate 75 years of SALTEX

If you are a landscape architect/designer, contractor, gardener, forester or horticulturalist, then this is your show.

• Pre-registration to SALTEX 2021 is essential this year. Please register for free online at https://gmasaltex.co.uk/ visitor-registration/ and print off your badge for entry to the show.

• The safety of all our exhibitors, partners, visitors, contractors, and staff is our highest priority. For more information on Covid safety measures please visit https://gmasaltex.co.uk/ covid-safety-measures/

• Follow SALTEX on Twitter @GMA_ SALTEX and Facebook www.facebook.com/ GMASALTEX

Those associated with landscape design and management will have the opportunity to see a wide range of innovative new products and services from prominent suppliers when SALTEX opens its doors at the NEC, Birmingham on November 3 and 4.

SALTEX will be taking place for the 75th time this year and the show is set to be the most vibrant and celebrated event in its long history.

The show floor will be bursting with everything a visitor needs to increase their efficiency and improve operations and

machinery, fertilizers, wetting agents, seeds, turf, aggregates and treatments, weed control, facilities management services, fencing and landscaping.

As well as a wide range of innovative products on display within the three large halls, visitors to SALTEX will have the chance to see an ‘electrifying’ showcase of products in a dedicated area on the show floor called the Eco Village.

Featuring a programme of daily demonstrations in cutting-edge sustainable technology – the Eco Village allows visitors a unique opportunity to witness a multitude of products in action.

likes of Avant UK (headline sponsor), Dennis Mowers, Campey Turf Care Systems, Overton UK, GroundWOW and Allet Mowers.

SALTEX plays host to the most technologically advanced equipment, product and service showcase in grounds management. Many are rightly celebrated at the show and none more so than through the SALTEX Innovation Awards.

Since its launch at SALTEX 2017, the Innovation Awards have helped to highlight some of the most ground-breaking, innovative products and services within the groundscare industry.

floor and there will be a winner in each of a wide range of product categories - so keep an eye out for news on when and where the final ceremony will take place on the show floor.

There will also be a number of education opportunities through Learning LIVESALTEX’s all-encompassing, free-to-attend education programme. Learning LIVE will take place in large seminar theatres situated on the show floor and will feature a wide range of topics which could be particularly beneficial for those working in the landscaping sector.

Landscapers may well be interested in Lawn Care Legends LIVE, which will

take place on the first day of the show and offer a fantastic networking opportunity.

Lawn Care Legends, a Facebook group which was created in July 2016, is a thriving online community with over 4,000 worldwide active members. It is primarily a group for all landscapers and gardeners to showcase their work and knowledge and ultimately support one another. Now the Legends are coming to SALTEX and all are welcome.

In addition to the limitless opportunities available on the show floor, one lucky visitor will be presented with an incredible battery-powered compact loader from Avant UK worth approximately £30,000.

Every person who registers will be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize –on loan for six months and the live draw will take place on the first day of the show.

John Ryan, founder of the Lawn Care Legends online networking community revealed why SALTEX is a must-attend event: “SALTEX is a way to get a feel of what is coming to the marketplace, and it helps you to adapt or evolve with the industry. We all use SALTEX as an opportunity to source new products and everyone is keen and eager to see what manufacturers have to offer.”

SALTEX Enquiry 41

Larger stand and more products from Price Turfcare

Price Turfcare, the UK and Ireland distributor of the Ventrac multiimplement, all-terrain compact tractor and Ryan turf maintenance equipment, is returning to SALTEX with a larger stand and more products on display.

Founded by Ransomes Jacobsen’s former sales director, Rupert Price, in January 2017, the company has come a long way in less than five years.

“We’ve had a fantastic journey in a short space of time”, he said. “It’s been tough, but we survived the pandemic and are back on the road with demonstrations, roadshows and exhibitions. Getting our products in front of people has proved to be an excellent sales strategy for the business. We have increased sales, year-onyear, with most Ventracs being sold with multiple attachments.

“We exhibited at The Game Fair in July and we generated significant enquiries. Private estates are a key business area for us and we have made significant sales involving multiple implement purchases. Our golf portfolio remains strong as does the landscape contracting sector.

“With seven different mowing decks, including the recently introduced flails, blowers, stump

grinders, blades, grapples, brushes and much more, it’s no wonder that customers really appreciate the versatility of Ventrac.”

To understand why respected businesses have been impressed by the Ventrac product and to see the latest equipment from Ryan come along and visit stand B124.

Price Turfcare Enquiry 43

A new mower from Toro and brand redesign from TYM

Reesink Turfcare will be back at SALTEX to reveal the new LT2240 cylinder mower from Toro and introduce customers to the brand redesign from TYM tractors.

Debuting for Toro will be the new LT2240 cylinder mower which replaces the popular CT2240. This model is tougher than its predecessor, but still compact and light enough to enable access to the most confined environments.

The main difference is that by being 214kg lighter makes the LT2240 even more suited for transportation between sites, while the 195mm narrower transport width brings increased site accessibility. And thanks

to the reduction in weight, fuel consumption is 41 percent lower.

Customers will also get the first chance to see one of the newly redesigned and reimagined tractors from TYM on stand M080. Part of TYM’s major brand overhaul, the 37hp T395 has a new look, which is sleek and bold as well as having superior ergonomics, an operator-focussed interior and a robust exterior. It comes with a Stage V compliant diesel engine and has a raft of improvements for a more productive performance.

It will be joined by the AgriMetal Blower attachment, which is the perfect attachment for autumn maintenance work.

Stand H075 will be dedicated entirely to Toro groundscare machinery, Toro irrigation and Otterbine and SRC, and on M080 will be TYM tractors.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 44

PSD Groundscare are back at with electrifying performance

PSD Groundscare are back at SALTEX bigger than ever before and are giving visitors the opportunity to view for the first time a fantastic range of innovative new machines from AS Motor, Koppl and Eliet.

As the industry sees a substantial growth in the use of electric machines, professional users can now benefit from the developments which are the future of the landscaping industry, offering them a high performing e-power solution capable of cutting long grass without compromising on performance.

Highly innovative AS Motor manufacture specialist mowers for long grass, steep slopes and difficult terrain mowing along with mechanical weed removal solutions.

The latest additions to their range and showcasing at SALTEX includes a range of new commercial eco-friendly E-Power solutions including lawn mowers, long grass mowers, mulching mowers and weed removal.

Award winning implement carrier and attachment manufacturer Koppl are continuing to develop their range of commercial e-power equipment by building on the already popular Compact Easy E-Drive power unit with the recent introduction of the larger Compact Comfort E-Drive.

This new model offers a powerful power unit for operating a range of landscaping attachments suitable for the rigorous use in the professional market.

Belgium manufacturer Eliet specialise in manufacturing solutions for green waste and lawn and turf care and previewed at SALTEX will be Vector Green Waste Shredder which will be available for purchase during Spring of 2022.

This shredder fills a gap in the range and is capable of shredding material into Bio Chips up to a diameter of 8cm and promises performance to match the other machines in the range.

In addition to the large exciting range of new innovations, there will also be a selection of existing key products being showcased and visitors are invited to come and meet the manufacturers behind the products first hand and speak direct to the experts.

Stuart Mercer Sales Director of PSD Groundscare said: “We are exceptionally excited about our attendance at SALTEX this

year, and it feels great being back exhibiting and we are very much looking forward to unveiling many innovative new products on our bigger than ever stand as we have more than doubled the size of our stand to reflect the extensive range we are showcasing.

“The expansion of the range of e-power battery powered equipment with extended run times will provide our customers and dealers with high performance, professional low noise machines that produce zero emissions and lower hand arm vibration. Meaning they’re a win-win for customers, operators and the environment and we can’t wait to get demonstrating to our customers.

“We believe that the new additions to our range will ensure we continue to be able to offer machinery that revolutionise groundscare and maintenance.”

PSD Groundscare Enquiry

45

KAR UK brings Hunter to the NEC

KAR UK – the leading wholesaler of irrigation equipment in the UK, will be on stand E053 at SALTEX 2021 showcasing a wide range of innovative Hunter products.

As an integral distributor of Hunter Industries irrigation equipment, the KAR UK team will be revealing how the

following products can have a positive impact on an array of various sports turf surfaces.

Experienced members of staff from KAR UK will be on hand throughout the event to provide advice and support for any of your irrigation projects.

KAR UK Enquiry 48

Ethanol-free Aspen Fuel, the focus of stand M055

Aspen are returning to SALTEX this November to discuss their range of ethanol-free Alkylate fuels, offering a cleaner alternative for both 2 and 4-stroke engines.

Following the recent switch to E10 grade at the UK petrol pumps, operators of garden and grounds machinery can find out more about the increased risks of reliability issues, attributable to the increased ethanol content, with a stop by stand M055.

To help in the government’s target of reducing carbon emissions, the ethanol content of regular grade unleaded petrol (95 octane) has been increased from 5% to 10% as from September 2021.

For modern car engines, designed to handle E10 fuel, few problems are expected. However, ethanol being a solvent that is damaging to plastic and rubber, E10 threatens to shorten the life of certain system

Dennis and SISIS launch new E-Series

British manufacturers Dennis and SISIS have chosen SALTEX 2021, to be held at the NEC Birmingham on 3 and 4 November, to showcase the E-Series - a new range of battery-powered turf maintenance equipment. Reliable and long lasting, the new and exciting E-series are no compromise alternatives to their long-established range of petrol machines. Ultra-low noise, low vibration, user friendly and super low CO 2 footprint

will help everyone towards the carbon neutral goal.

Leaving no stone unturned, Dennis and SISIS have spent over three years working with carefully chosen partners to develop a range of quality battery-powered equipment that meets the requirements of natural and synthetic turf maintenance and are befitting of the Dennis and SISIS badges. Visitors to the show will also have the opportunity to see the E-series

demonstrated in the Eco Village on both days at specific times.

Dennis and SISIS’ experienced and knowledgeable members of staff will be on stand E070 throughout the two days to offer valuable advice. Visitors will also have the opportunity to find out more about the online educational portal for bowls greenkeepers and register their interest for 2022 seminars.

Dennis and SISIS Enquiry 50

components in some older engines and contribute towards the poor running of small power equipment.

In addition, ethanol also reduces the storage life of petrol, with many leading manufacturers recommending that fuels containing ethanol be consumed within a 30-day period in order to minimise the problems associated with degradation.

Being free from ethanol as well as benzene, sulphur and many other harmful substances, Aspen Alkylate petrol improves not only the reliability and performance of your equipment, but the working conditions for the operator.

The fuel also significantly reduces the harmful impact your machinery makes on the environment.

The Aspen team will be on hand across the two days to answer any questions and discuss the range of package and delivery options

available - giving commercial customers the flexibility to specify their fuel by the container, pallet or drum to best

suit their usage, transportation and storage requirements.

Aspen Fuel Enquiry 49

Dennis G860

Re-designed GKB Combinator promises to be star attraction

GKB Machines, leading providers of innovative machinery for the maintenance of natural and artificial sports surfaces, are returning to SALTEX this November with an even bigger stand to showcase even more equipment.

Visitors to stand H051 can expect to see a number of new developments, including the newly re-designed GKB Combinator, which will be on show in the UK for the very first time.

The Combinator has established itself as one of the most reliable fraise mowers available –removing up to 50mm from the surface in a single pass.

To further improve the cleanliness of finish, the cross conveyor on the re-designed Combinator has been moved closer to both the rotor and blade tips, to cleanly transfer more of the removed material up and away into an awaiting collector. The elevator will also now be partly covered to protect the material from wind as it makes its way to the trailer.

The drive system on the redesigned model has been enhanced and features a solid direct drive from the gearbox over a PTO-style yolk. Inside, a stainless-steel hood protects against abrasive sands and delivers an improved flow of material.

Available in four working widths ranging from 1.2m to 2.4m, there’s a Combinator to suit all sports surfaces including hybrid pitches, where an optional ‘hold down plate’ can be specified to protect hybrid fibres while scarification takes place.

Also on show at SALTEX for the first time will be the Deep Tine Aerator (DTA). As the name suggests, the DTA delivers intensive aeration, with larger models in the range working to depths of up to 400mm (16”).

Unique to the GKB DTA is the tine mounting system – the tines fit into a ‘block’ rather

than individual mountings. This allows for more tines per head and improves the speed and efficiency of switching between tines, whilst also reducing the wear imposed on parts when changing tines in more traditional ‘tine holder’ set-ups.

Alongside equipment for natural surfaces, the team will be on hand to discuss the range of machinery available for synthetic surface maintenance. Stand H051 will also showcase the GKB Quick-Brush, the Top Clean and the deeper-working, more invasive GKB Quick Clean

Outlandishly electric from Etesia

SALTEX 2021 will prove to be a great opportunity for the grounds management industry to learn more about the recently launched ET Lander – a new fully electric utility vehicle from Etesia UK.

Unveiled earlier this year, the ET Lander is the innovative product that everybody is talking about, and the industry will finally be able to get up close and personal with it on stand C085 at the NEC Birmingham on 3 and 4 November.

Built for use on road and off road in both the town and countryside, the ET Lander is 100% electric, spacious, well-equipped and userfriendly. It is built on a robust chassis and has an array of options including a three-way tipper bed with dual control from the fullyfitted two-seater 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 allterrain 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.

In addition to the new ET Lander, SALTEX visitors can expect to see the new MK124 ride on mower with a 124cm Cutting deck and ground tip emptying During the pandemic the R&D team have been busy working on new innovative machines that will result in further additions in the coming months.

Etesia’s machines have long held a reputation for being the best at cutting and collecting grass in all weathers, so ensure a trip to stand C085 is on your SALTEX agenda to find out how this brand could significantly improve your operations.

Etesia UK Enquiry 55

GKB Machines Enquiry 52

All electric for Allett

The Allett stand at this year’s SALTEX features only battery electric mowers.

At the forefront is an exciting new electric model, but the company is keeping that under wraps until the first morning of the show when it will be revealed on the stand.

They will also show it at the ‘Eco Village’ at 12.30pm, where Austin will demonstrate its capabilities and talk about the future of battery power.

Allett says they have seen a real change in sentiment towards battery mowers over the past two years as people realise the benefits, both environmentally and for end users.

There are the Hand-Arm Vibration benefits over petrolpowered machinery, which is of great importance for workers within the industry.

In addition to the new Allett product, they will also be showing for the first time a concept professional greens mowing system with a new Honda battery and motor system that will retro fit existing Honda petrol mowers.

Another environmental contribution to sustainability. Three other models complete Allett’s current battery powered line-up on stand K009.

Allett Enquiry

ICL to showcase new Ranger Pro

Visitors to the ICL stand (C090) at SALTEX 2021, will get the chance to discover a wide range of turf and landscaping solutions.

At this year’s show, which is also SALTEX’s 75th anniversary, there will be a particular focus on the newly launched Ranger Pro from ICL.

Ranger Pro is a new professional biocide for use on external hard surfaces, including roofs, driveways, patios, pavements, concrete, around buildings and on artificial sports surfaces.

Furthermore, it can be used as an artificial pitch disinfectant.

Ranger Pro has been proven to be 99.9% effective against:

• Bacteria (EN 1276; Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus hirae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli)

• Yeasts (EN 1650; Candida albicans)

• Viruses (EN 14476 Vaccinia virus - all enveloped viruses including coronaviruses such as Covid 19)

The improved formulation contains wetters and spreaders to help improve surface coverage, for a quicker and more effective penetration into algae lichen and broader spectrum biocidal qualities. This ensures effective and efficient treatment.

The ICL technical team will be out in force at SALTEX 2021 to talk all things turf and landscape.

Perhaps you need advice on combatting disease or would like to discuss maintenance programmes or products; or maybe you are just looking at improving your turf or landscape areas – all are welcome to the ICL stand.

In high grass, flail mowers are particularly impressive due to their high work rates, uniform cutting results and robustness in the event of unseen foreign objects. After several years of development, AS-Motor now offers a unique machine concept: A ride-on flail mulcher engineered for work on slopes, with an extremely low centre of gravity with two-wheel drive, four-wheel drive and XL models - the AS YAK

Catch up on the seeds and the science with DLF

Turf professionals from across the sports and landscaping sectors can look forward to a refresher on ‘all things seed’ with a stop by the DLF stand at SALTEX 2021.

Returning this November to stand J052, the DLF Technical Team will be on hand to discuss their vast portfolio of specialist mixtures from both the Johnsons Sports Seed and Masterline ranges, along with the latest developments in their research and breeding programmes.

For sports turf, 2021 saw the introduction of a number of new formulations and cultivars into the Johnson’s range, most notably Tetragame – from the DLF 4Turf Tetraploid Perennial Ryegrass stable.

With sustainability an increasingly key consideration for turf managers, Tetragame delivers significantly improved disease resistance and sward recovery along with strong germination and establishment at temperatures as low as 4oc. Tetragame features in Johnsons

J Outfield, together with J 4Turf and J 4Turf 100 - delivering the strength and durability demanded for winter sport and equestrian use.

With mixtures created for both professional sports and landscaping, the Masterline range continues to offer unrivalled choice to managers of amenity surfaces. The Masterline range incorporates high performance cultivars for reliable results and exceptional value. With a focus on sustainability, PM82 Microclover Sport incorporates unique Microclover to provide enhanced growth and wear tolerance with significantly reduced herbicide, fungicide and fertiliser requirements making PM82 an ideal choice for local authorities and school pitches.

The DLF team will be available across the two days to discuss both the seeds and the science as, behind the scenes, work is ongoing across their worldwide breeding network – particularly in the area of disease resistance.

DLF Enquiry 60

Extra smart technology and a more robust build

With even more Health & Safety benefits, the Agria 9600 remote controlled banks mower gives contractors, local authorities and course managers exactly what they want.

Even steeper slopes can now be tackled as the mower’s capability increases by 10%, to 55°, making out of reach areas possible, and potentially adding new terrain opportunities for users.

The agria 9600 – which can be seen on stand A085 - cuts and mulches in two directions and is effortless on a variety of applications, including fine

turf, while offering an even faster way to adjust cutting height to between 50 -185 mm.

With a working width of 112 cm it can cover up to 10,000 m²/hr assuming a forward speed of 10 km/hr making it very productive.

Innovative ‘electric hybrid drive’ allows the agria 9600 to be more efficient and environmentally friendly than other hydraulic concepts.

Safety Extra Low Voltage (48V) electricity is generated as the petrol engine drives the mower blades and generator.

Agria UK Enquiry 61

A showcase of powerful performance from GreenMech

A stop by the GreenMech stand at SALTEX will provide the first opportunity to see the many developments within their revolutionary EVO Series, since the woodchipper range was first showcased at the 2019 event.

Two of the most recent introductions, the EVO 165P Sub-750 and brand new 8” EVO 205D will take pride of place on stand H055 this November.

Introduced in direct response to industry demand for a machine with more powerful bite, torque and throughput, the proven performance delivered by the EVO 165 has seen it cement its position in the 6” chipper market.

Now, the key features of the series including wide infeed chute, twin horizontal rollers, all steel bonnet and heavy-duty flywheel have been combined with the powerful, yet economic 37hp Briggs & Stratton Vanguard

petrol engine with the launch of the EVO 165P Sub-750.

To meet the requirements of even more of today’s arborists and landscapers, the 165P Sub750 has also been developed to fit within the 750kg weight bracket with a redesigned chassis providing strength and durability, and alterations to its construction and specification without detriment to overall performance.

Extending the EVO concept into the 8” market, the ‘big brother’ in the shape of the EVO 205D will also be making its show debut at this year’s SALTEX.

At the heart of the 205D is a Stage V compliant 50hp Kubota diesel engine, powering a heavyduty flywheel which promises to tackle the biggest tasks fast, with both reliability and ease.

GreenMech Enquiry 62

Times have changed. So have tools. And our new Professional-X range is all the proof you need. Take the EGO Power+ blower. It’s powered by the most technologically advanced, petrol-matching, Lithium-ion battery system out there. It’s built tough to withstand all-day use in any weather. Its impressive airflow beats every other handheld blower on the market, and while it packs all the power of petrol, it’s significantly quieter, vibrates less and gives off zero emissions.

While much of normal life may have somewhat ground to a halt over the last two years, the wheels of innovation haven’t stopped turning for the team at INFINICUT.

Abundance of INFINICUT innovations on show Headland’s Enhanced Plant Health approach takes centre stage

At this year’s SALTEX, there will be a number of new and exciting developments to see on stand H070 including updates to the revolutionary INFINIApp and a new adaptation kit which converts a JD2500 into a dedicated 85” sports turf mower.

Visitors will also be able to stop and test their ‘pedal power’ for a chance to win a special INFINICUT prize.

To continue to meet the exacting standards required by today’s turf professionals, a number of updates and features have been added to machines from across the INFINICUT portfolio.

First off, the SM34 Rotary Mower will be showcased complete with manual height adjustment lever for the quick and simple raising and lowering of the rotary deck.

Also at SALTEX for the first time will be the brand new INFINICUT adaptation kit which transforms a JD 2500 triplex into a highly productive, lightweight 85” dedicated sports turf mower.

In addition, a selection of maintenance cassettes from the TMSystem range, including the renowned ATT UltraGroomer,

are also compatible with the new set-up.

As one of the four leading brands of Origin Amenity Solutions, Headland Amenity will be returning to SALTEX in a new stand location but with the same technical team, on hand to discuss their range of innovative turf nutrition, health and management products.

Of particular interest to visitors of stand G060 will be Headland’s industry-leading 20-20-30 Enhanced Plant Health (EPH) tankmix, proven to deliver turf strength and reduce disease activity when applied as part of a preventative plant-health approach.

Headland have pioneered research and independent trials since 2007 to create a tank-mix to boost plant health, in such a way that it is more difficult for disease pathogens to take hold.

The 20-20-30 mix has proven its credentials on fine turf applications, reducing clubs’ reliance on costly fungicide applications and is now also demonstrating its efficacy at suppressing disease on sports turf.

Within the last couple of years, further research has seen some enhancements to the strategy, firstly with the addition of Mantle’s water-soluble formulation includes a unique plant elicitor to Headland, which stimulates the grass plant’s own natural defence mechanisms.

Maredo’s versatility on display

The Maredo STrac 700 is a revolutionary pedestrian power unit which supports four different groundcare operations –scarifying, aeration, seeding and fraise mowing.

Worthy of its ‘access-all-areas’ badge, the STrac 700 is light, fast and versatile. Even on difficult undulations, it provides uniformity of care and presentation across a whole site. Challenging areas like the collars of a golf course, or, bowling greens, where a tractor is too heavy, or just can’t access are now possible.

Brought to you via your local Wiedenmann UK dealer, the STrac 700 has easy controls on the guiding handle and a set of inter-changeable heads. A very short turning radius means the rear wheels can adopt a variety of operating positions, while the tools connect effortlessly, cassette style. Maredo offers four tool types each purchased separately with working widths of 65 cm. New tool types are in development and you can hear more about the company on stand A085.

Maredo Enquiry 70

A combination of Liquid Turf Hardener, Turfite and Seamac Proturf was found to deliver the nutrients required to maximise sward strength going into and during the main disease periods.

Headland Amenity Enquiry 68

INFINICUT Enquiry 66

Wiedenmann’s kit will take centre stage at stand A080

Multi-purpose machines are on trend and Wiedenmann will showcase a range of its machinery at the NEC.

Wiedenmann’s Super 500, sweeper collector, scarifier and flail mower is used day-in, day out for leaf clearance, rough management, and multiple collecting tasks.

With a 2 500-litre tank and a high dump capacity to 2.1 m, it tips into trailers to save on time and resources. The Whisper Twister blower has a unique patented mechanism that can be swivelled steadily by 180º with only one hydraulic cylinder.

Leaves can be blown continuously in one direction without the need to back up. The swivel nozzle lets you work from left to right in one pass without the need to turn and adjusts vertically. Operating at 540rpm, the impressive airflow of 200m³ per minute at 50m per second is delivered with minimum noise.

In the world of deep aeration, the Terra Spike GXi8 HD, is as versatile as it gets with its Advanced Tine Control (ATC) system. Engineered to increase performance in the soil it also improves the finish to the surface. The machine leaves a perfect vertical hole or heave can be introduced infinitely, to suit the conditions on the day.

Whether breaking heavily compacted soil down to 250mm or carrying out a summer aeration programme on fine turf, the operator can rest assured that other than the desired tined hole, surface disruption is non-existent.

With a total of seven solid tine options, seven hollow tine options, and two multi head options available plus turf retainers and swath boards, variety is well served.

71

Kubota brings new machines to exhibition

Kubota will present an extensive range of new machines at SALTEX 2021, with plenty for visitors to investigate at the UK’s first major indoor groundcare exhibition for two years.

Heading up the launches on stand C070 is the new LX Series, a range of multipurpose compact tractors from 35-40hp, that allow users to handle a wide variety of tasks ranging from mowing and snow clearance to materials handling and cultivations.

With an impressive lift capacity, optional front loader, front linkage and pto, this is a tractor for all seasons.

The recently upgraded L Series is also represented, now equipped with Kubota Stage V engines and a stylish new look.

Kubota’s mowing equipment’s latest addition to the renowned F Series front mowers, the 38hp is the F391, offering unmatched output and performance for commercial mowing.

The new G Series ride-on mowers have had an outstanding reception across the industry, and Kubota will launch the G261 RD, with rear discharge deck and optional mulching, which offers high work rates and quality of cut for operations that do not require collection, while still

capable of accessing restricted areas. Kubota maintains an excellent working relationship with Baroness, sharing many of the same dealers, and examples

fine turf specialist’s mowing range can also be seen on the stand.

Pellenc will be proudly showcasing two new innovations on stand C085 at SALTEX 2021.

The new high powered brush cutter delivers the equivalent of 70cc of power, as much as some of the largest petrol machines on the market, it can easily cope with clearance work and is just as happy on maintenance duties at lower speeds, with a rotational speed of 6,600rpm and a cutting diameter of 420mm, the Excelion V2 battery-powered brushcutter

offers superior performance for professional intensive landscaping and forestry work.

The Airion Backpack blower is the most powerful batterypowered backpack blower on the market. With an airflow of 1,280m³/h and a thrust of 24N, its performance is suitable for day-to-day road green space maintenance work in all seasons

of the

Kubota Enquiry 72

Wiedenmann Enquiry

Pellenc Enquiry 73

“The

Harry Flower

Head Gardener, Blundell’s School, Tiverton

Campey Turf Care Systems to unveil new machine

Campey Turf Care Systems will be on stand H082 with the brand-new Campey Pedestrian AeraSeeder along with popular machines from Air2G2, Imants, Vredo and Dakota.

The pedestrian overseeder is an exciting addition to Campey’s range, with it specifically added to tackle hard to reach areas that larger machines can’t access.

Smaller areas such as ornamental gardens, cemetery plots, golf greens, goalmouths, and other bare areas are easily accessible for the machine, which is only

83cm wide. It provides simple yet accurate overseeding, with a 60cm seeding area and a multispiked roller that produces approximately 800 perforations per square yard, effectively saturating the top surface with a network of holes.

This network, combined with the brush and smooth packing roller systems and stainlesssteel seed apertures, offers the highest percentage of grass seed germination.

Campey Turf Care Systems

Enquiry 75

All new for Vanmac

Having attended SALTEX for many years with their iconic range of blowers, scarifiers and vacuum sweepers, Trilo will be returning to Birmingham this November on a joint stand with parent company Vanmac Ltd.

It’s been a busy two years for the team, and visitors to their new stand location K070 can expect to see many of the developments – including the first showcase of Progressive trailed and mounted rotary mowers following Vanmac’s appointment as full-line distributors in March.

Alongside Progressive, stand K070 will feature equipment

Improving the health and performance of sports turf

Mansfield Sand (stand C134) will be returning to SALTEX to showcase a wide range of sand-based products that are vital to the overall health and performance of a sports pitch.

Mansfield Sand has pioneered the development and production

of premium silica sand-based products for over 170 years. The company provides a wide range of innovative products for sports, landscaping, and equestrian uses.

These include stadium and training ground facilities; championship golf courses

and world class show jumping arenas. Mansfield Sand’s experienced team will on hand throughout the two-day event to speak in more detail about your individual requirements.

Mansfield Sand Enquiry 78

from another new franchise in the Vanmac portfolio.

Brouwer Kesmac have a longstanding, established reputation in the turf grower sector with a range spanning harvesters and pedestrian rollers, together with trailed verti-cutters, aerators and cylinder mowers of interest to landscapers and green space managers.

Completing the line-up, visitors will also be able to catch up on the developments with the Trilo range, including the independent-drive T1 suction unit.

Vanmac Ltd Enquiry 76

Turf Tank is the One

Turf Tank is bringing the revolutionary Turf Tank One back to SALTEX 2021.

The line marker will be on Stand G085 at the NEC in Birmingham for the two-day event, along with the Turf Tank UK team.

Throughout the past year, many schools, contractors, and professional and amateur sports

teams have transformed their line marking operation with the Turf Tank One.

Exceptional accuracy using a base station, customisable templates for pitches, logos and numbers, and huge time savings have set the robot apart from alternative methods.

Turf Tank Enquiry 77

SISGrass switches to Dennis E-Series

Committed to reducing their carbon footprint, SISGrass has continued to rely on Dennis Mowers by replacing their fleet of petrol cylinder mowers to the all-new battery-powered E-Series.

SISGrass offers market leading hybrid playing surfaces throughout the world. Installed at every major football tournament in the last few years, the technology is trusted by some of the biggest names in sport.

Aside from their own innovative technology, SISGrass insists on working with only the most reliable and top performing turf maintenance equipment when building a pitch from start to fi nish. It is for this reason that SISGrass has relied on Dennis Mowers for several years.

“We originally partnered with Dennis back in 2015,” said Phil Blackwell, Director at SISGrass.

“We started out with three Dennis G860 cylinder mowers which accompanied our own machines as we travelled around the world delivering and installing our hybrid systems.

“With the G860 we have been able to finish our installations professionally with - what I believe to be - one of the best mowers on the market.”

SISGrass soon increased their fleet of mowers to seven Dennis G860’s, and when the company decided to further embrace sustainable and green principles, there was only going to be one replacement mower according to Phil.

Readyhedge benefits from battery-powered technology

“Over the past few years as SISGrass has developed and progressed, we have strived to reduce the reliability on hydraulics and engines – and the move to electric power is now the next step,” he said.

“We were aware of the new Dennis E-Series and had many discussions with Toby Clarke whilst they were in development.

“Last year we were fortunate to have one on trial for a few days and had great success.

“The mowers are fantastic to use, and the finish and quality of the machine is second to none.

“We quickly decided to replace all seven Dennis G860’s with their battery-powered alternatives – the ES-860’s.”

Users of the Dennis G860 cylinder mower will no doubt see familiarities in the new ES-860.

This 34” battery powered turf management system delivers maximum versatility and the range of 13 interchangeable cassette options provide a solution to many day-to-day maintenance tasks such as cutting, scarifying, brushing, slitting and verticutting. Furthermore, traditional G860 cassettes will also fit the ES860, meaning that customers will not have to purchase additional cassettes.

Every mower in the E-Series range features a robust LCD keypad screen which provides the operator with a multitude of information options including speed, clip rate, service checks, lifetime running reports and battery information.

With a powerful 48V battery, it takes just 90 minutes for a full battery recharge and turf professionals will not have to worry about range anxiety as a fully charged ES-860 will comfortably last the distance without having to constantly

change batteries. “We are delighted to be working alongside SISGrass who are growing year on year – long may that continue,” said Toby Clarke.

“Before I started working at Readyhedge, I only ever used petrol machinery,” said Stuart. “When I picked up the Pellenc tools for the first time, I honestly thought that they were not going to be up to the job. In my opinion, nothing could compare to petrol.

Situated on an 18-acre site in Pershore, Readyhedge grows a vast range of hedging in its Readyhedge Troughs and Readybags.

It also produces aerial screening and stocks a selection of root-balled hedging units during the winter months. Within the Readybag and Readyhedge trough ranges customers will find a number of plants all growing well together and carefully clipped into a Readyhedge.

Light, odourless, noise-free, with no starting problems and enough power to enable professional users to work for a full day on a single charge, it’s no wonder more and more professional users are turning to Pellenc.

It is an attractive alternative to those who have, for several years, been relying on fuelbased machinery.

A forerunner when it comes to lithium-ion technology, Pellenc has established itself as the number one choice in the ‘zero emission’ professional power tools market for the maintenance of urban and green-spaces.

With an extensive product list available from Pellenc, Readyhedge recently added the all-new Helion Alpha hedgetrimmer with an on-board 260 battery to its existing Helion hedge-trimmer and ULiB400 battery.

Dennis Enquiry 80

Stuart Robertson of Readyhedge admits that a range of battery powered Pellenc equipment has dramatically changed his mindset.

Etesia Enquiry 81

EGO’s guide to line trimmers and brushcutters

EGO’s range of battery-powered line trimmers and brushcutters tackle the toughest of jobs. Each has its own benefits, with some more suitable for specific gardening and landscaping tasks than others. This guide from EGO Power + aims to give users a better understanding of the key things they should consider when buying these useful handheld tools.

The difference between line trimmers and brushcutters isn’t always obvious. Line trimmers tend to be smaller, lighter and, using a piece of nylon cord, are built for trimming toughto-reach areas of lawn and for clearing small weeds and shrub.

Brushcutters, on the other hand, are more powerful machines and use heavy duty steel blades to clear thicker areas of long grass, strong persistent weeds, heavy brushwood and even small trees. Most of EGO’s line trimmers have an interchangeable head so users can alternate between the two depending on the job at hand.

For professional users, EGO also offers it’s Professional-X Rotocut attachment which cuts through grass, weeds and moss on concrete, pathways and verges with ease. Featuring two counter-rotating blades instead of line, it maximises run-time and prevents debris from being

thrown, making it ideal for use in built up areas where risk of damage or injury is higher.

Users that have a smaller budget but are looking for a good all rounder could opt for EGO’s multi tool which has interchangeable heads including line trimmer, brushcutter, pole saw, hedge trimmer, bristle brush, lawn edger and rotocut attachments.

The size of the areas being cut should also be a key consideration when considering the ergonomics and practicalities of carrying the tool. When using tools on more spacious areas for a longer time, it can’t be too taxing to carry around.

Like all of EGO’s tools, the company’s line trimmers and brush cutters use EGO’s Arc Lithium 56v battery technology, rather than petrol. The benefits here are obvious and the market is now realising that these tools can deliver power equal to more than their petrol counterparts without the noise, fumes, or fuss.

While EGO’s batteries are available up to 10Ah, users need to consider the weight of the product with use in handheld tools. With increased power comes increased size and weight. EGO recommends using its 7.5Ah battery for brush cutters and line trimmers. This not only provides more than enough run time but actually serves the user with optimum weight distribution and maximum control when cutting.

The best advice for users is to use a harness where possible and to find the centre of gravity before using the tool. This way, most of the weight is balanced on the harness and not carried in the arms.

Makita expands its range of outdoor power equipment

Makita has made two new additions to its selection of XGT 40VMax machines. The new tools include the UR006G XGT 40VMax Brushless Brush Cutter and UR008G XGT 40VMax Brushless Linetrimmer.

The UR006G and UR008G are supported by Makita’s bestin-class XGT battery system that provides professional landscapers and groundskeepers with the reliability, power and performance they need to achieve top quality results.

The UR006G is a high-power machine that can deliver output of up to 7,000rpm and similar power to a 30CC class engine grass trimmer, so users can experience the benefits of cordless without compromising on output. To deliver optimum performance, the UR006G has three speed options and features Automatic Torque Drive Technology (ADT) that intelligently adjusts the operation speed depending on the load conditions.

For maximum productivity, the UR006G features a reverse rotation switch that allows the operator to quickly clear the trimmer head or blade from entangled grass and weeds.

What’s more, the UR006G uses smart Active Feedback Sensing Technology (AFT) to prevent kickback by automatically turning off the motor if the tool rotation suddenly slows, improving operator safety.

Designed with comfort in mind, the new UR008G has a no-load speed of

up to 6,000 RPM and an impressive cutting diameter of 430mm, ensuring maximum productivity.

To ensure user safety, the UR008G produces low sound and vibration levels for a more comfortable operation - with a Noise K factor of 1.6 dB (A) and a Vibration K factor of 1.5m/sec² when using the nylon cutting head. For safety and efficiency, the UR008G features Makita’s advanced ADT and AFT technology.

STIHL extends cordless pole pruner range

STIHL has extended its range of lightweight cordless pole pruners with the introduction of the new HTA 135, the manufacturer’s most powerful model to date, designed for professional arborists, landscapers and commercial enterprises.

Quiet in operation and perfect for working in noise-sensitive areas, the HTA 135 comes fitted with a 3/8” PMM3 semichisel, anti kickback saw chain

providing precision, high cutting performance and lowpinch tendencies.

A branch hook offers stability for a more accurate cut and helps to remove caught up branches easily.

The HTA 135 also features a square telescopic shaft that can be quickly adjusted between 285cm and 405cm using the new twist and click adjuster.

A square shaft for increased rigidity prevents twisting and deflection, delivering a precise cut even at full extension.

A tougher machine for tougher jobs

The Toro Company, a global leader in turf and landscape equipment, has revealed a heavy-duty and battery powered addition to its domestic line of lawnmowers.

The Toro 60V HD Proline further reinforces Toro’s move to more environmentally friendly products, while still providing a powerful and reliable machine.

The HD Proline features a 6mm thick cast aluminium deck and is designed to withstand the demands from professional gardeners and landscapers –but still remains simple and easy to use for the everyday gardener.

The HD Proline is the ideal choice for those with slightly larger areas of land, where a

standard consumer lawnmower would not be suitable, and a ride on would be too large an investment – the HD Proline fits perfectly in this gap.

STIHL Enquiry 85

Makita Enquiry 84

The Toro Company Enquiry 87

GreenTek’s new solution for thatch on sports pitches and fairways

Improving the health and presentation of sports turf is becoming an increasingly high priority for many sports clubs, colleges, and local authorities.

Thatch removal from multiple sports pitches or golf fairways has always been a time-consuming operation. Now GreenTek have vastly speeded this up with the introduction of their new TurfConditioner 12.

This has a working width of 3.6m. Its two folding wings enable it to cover ground quickly, whilst accurately following over undulations. It has three rows of rakes which are all slightly offset so that the tines give a very closely spaced raking pattern. Their working angle is adjustable to achieve the desired degree of thatch removal.

The Turf-Conditioner 12 is excellent for lifting the grass before mowing to overcome nap and provide a clean true cut.

The benefits of the Turf-Conditioner are numerous. Not only is nap lifted and thatch effectively removed, but better air circulation is provided around the grass plant which helps to minimize the conditions for fungal diseases such as fusarium.

Josh Thurley, Golf Course Manager at Malden Golf Club said: “We chose the GreenTek TurfConditioner because of its ability to follow the contours and undulations on our fairways without any hassle. We have been using it on the fairways since March and have seen some great results already within the sward and surface quality. We have 8 hectares of fair-ways, and we complete the whole golf course within 4 hours. I’m looking forward to also using in our long eco rough, to thin the sward and still leave the long wispy grasses.

“The versatility and quickness of use is excellent, and I would recommend any club to invest in one for their course.”

Spraying with precision

John Deere’s new advanced technology GPS PrecisionSprayer, available exclusively for use with the ProGator utility vehicle, allows sports turf professionals to work more accurately, safely and productively.

With features such as AutoTrac satellite guided automatic steering, a full-colour incab touchscreen display and individual nozzle control, this easy-to-use sprayer also lowers input costs through reduced overlaps and misses.

The GPS PrecisionSprayer uses satellite technology

and mobile RTK (real-time kinematic) navigation down to accuracy levels of 2.5cm to allow users to create reliable spray coverage maps.

It also captures all spray data and analyses the results, which streamlines documentation and provides robust analytics for recording and legislation purposes.

John Ledwidge, Head of Sports Turf & Grounds at Leicester City Football Club, bought the first of these new machines to be delivered to a non-golf customer in the UK, from dealer Farol.

overspraying or overspending.”

GreenTek Enquiry 88

“Adopting this new precision technology will help in our aim to be as efficient and environmentally sustainable as possible in everything we do. The John Deere GPS

PrecisionSprayer

means we can apply exactly what is required without

John Deere Enquiry 89

Brush up on motors with Makita

The team at Makita explain why it is important to consider the type of motor used to power garden machinery and construction tools and how making the right selection can help to improve onsite efficiency.

When it comes to choosing power tools, tradespeople should always factor in the type of motor used to power the machine.

Although brushed and brushless motors both do a good job, it is important to consider the differences in their design and how these can impact on productivity and the tool’s longevity.

Conventional brushed tools are driven by an electrical current that is fed from the battery to carbon brushes, which in turn, creates a circuit with the internal components, commutator and armature to trigger the rotation of the motor shaft.

These carbon brushes work with the internal magnets to keep the rotation and in turn create torque, as the current increases through the brushes, the rotation speed increases.

Although brushed motors are very effective, they can require maintenance more frequently than a brushless motor. This is because of the friction that is caused when the brushes make contact with the commutator within the motor. Over time, the brushes are designed to wear so periodic replacement is necessary.

What’s more, when friction occurs energy can be lost through heat production and this can reduce the run time of batterypowered cordless machines. Makita machines using a brushed motor will perform adequately for many applications, however productivity and efficiency can be improved by choosing a brushless motor product.

Unlike brushed motors, brushless alternatives regulate the current with an electric circuit board that coordinates energy to the components, rather than a direct connection between carbon brushes and the motor. This direct communication from the circuit board means the tool’s output is able to adjust according to the task.

As there are no brushes in the motor causing friction, the need for replacement parts and associated maintenance costs are reduced and the longevity of the machine is extended.

What’s more, as no energy is lost through heat production, batteries will run for longer between charges – even in heavy-duty applications or when the tool is in use for extended periods of time.

In fact, in some cases run times can be extended by up to 50%. Also, as there is no friction causing heat, the chance of the motor overheating and becoming damaged is reduced, which extends the lifetime of the machine further.

In addition, cordless machines with brushless motors can provide more torque per weight. As torque is not affected by friction and heat production, less power is required to use the tool, improving efficiency further.

Finally, brushless motors are more compact compared to brushed alternatives as there are fewer moving parts, which means that the tools themselves can be smaller and lighter. This is ideal for landscapers who often have to use machines for extended periods of time and across large outdoor areas as fatigue is reduced.

Makita has heavily invested into and refined its cordless brushless motor technology to manufacture superior tools that match today’s demands of professionals in every sector. For landscapers, there is a wide choice of brushless 18V LXT, Twin 18V LXT and 40VMax XGT machines suitable for both hard and soft landscaping work, including construction power tools such as drills, saws and grinders, right up to larger tools such as mitre saws and rotary demolition hammers.

Makita Enquiry 92

Kubota announces OEM partnership with MX

Kubota has announced a strategic OEM partnership with French manufacturer MX to supply loaders for the M series tractor range throughout Europe.

The agreement covers all M-series models including the M4003, M5002, MGX-IV, M6002 and M7003 models, spanning 66-170hp.

For Kubota (UK), this agreement is expected to significantly increase sales by

providing a comprehensive materials-handling solution which is available to order exclusively through Kubota’s dealer network.

Importantly for customers, it offers the convenience of combining tractor, loader and attachments, in one integrated solution.

“This agreement makes it much easier for customers to choose a tractor and high-performance

loader package that closely suits their needs,” said Henry Myatt, product marketing manager for Kubota’s M-series tractor portfolio.

“MX-built Kubota loaders are finished in our familiar orange livery to compliment the look of the Kubota tractor range, providing an integrated materials handling solution for all M-series tractors,” he said.

Kubota Enquiry 93

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

And now, Amazone Groundcare have launched the cabbed version of the PH 1500. The huge glass area, with slender A and B pillars, ensures that optimum visibility is still maintained even with the wide, easy-access doors.

Once inside, the creature comforts are all there, radio, air seat, Bluetooth phone connectivity - all set in a comfortable air-conditioned working environment.

The overall height is kept to a minimum allowing the Profihopper to reach those places that other mowers simply can’t reach.

Easy power is provided by engines that are already Stage V Exhaust emission compliant and require no AdBlue.

So don’t compromise - choose the machine that comes with more hopper compaction for less emptying and now with additional comfort built-in too.

Better Safe Than Sorry

a thing of the past following the introduction of Tiltmaster to the UK groundcare sector. The three different models available can be quickly fitted to any machine providing a constant supply of working angle information to ensure the operator stays working safely within their machines capabilities. The three different models are Tiltmaster C for Compact Tractors (0-15 degrees), Tiltmaster D (0-25degrees) and Tiltmaster Extreme for specialist machines (0-45 degrees). Tiltmaster, now available from as little as £39 plus VAT, is a simple and effective method of providing additional health and safety data to users of groundcare and other machinery.

Simon Richard Ltd

Tel: 01450 860774 Email: simon@simon-richard.co.uk

www.facebook.com/simonrichardltd

DLF Seeds, a world-leading grass seed breeder, is to invest £3.5m in new state-of-theart mixing and distribution facilities at its main seed processing site at Inkberrow in Worcestershire.

This comes on the back of a £3M investment at its Scottish site at Broxburn, near Edinburgh in 2015, which automated and revolutionised the handling of forage grass and clover mixtures into the agricultural market.

“This investment will transform our current production facilities and bring much needed additional capacity and efficiency to cope with the future market demands in the amenity, consumer, environmental stewardship, cover crop and wildflower markets,” says Tim Kerridge, Managing Director for DLF Seeds.

The investment encompasses a new fully automated mixing plant for amenity and consumer products, whilst freeing up existing mixing capacity to triple the throughput of environmental

stewardship, cover crops and wildflowers. Work, which has already started, is expected to be completed by spring 2023.

Seeds

DLF

Enquiry 107

Suståne supports

Boasting panoramic views over the sea and the South Downs National Park, Brighton & Hove is the oldest golf club in Sussex –its nine hill-top holes situated near the picturesque Devil’s Dyke.

Its location leaves the course exposed to the elements and has posed challenges for Course Manager Jason Sarna and his assistant Kevin Paynter as they work to reinstate some of the site’s downland and links qualities. The success of the project, Jason says, is largely down to improvements with the soil, and that’s thanks to products from Suståne.

“I’m a big believer in feeding the soil, not the plant and working to create the environment which favours the species you want to encourage.” Jason’s greens programme revolves around regular granular feeds - 6-2-4 Turf Revival as a kick-starter in the spring and following any

renovation work, Suståne 5-2-4 applied every six to eight weeks in the main season and Bolster 4-4-4+3Fe as he reaches the more dormant winter months.

This is then supplemented with Bolster Liquid Biostimulant, applied at 5L per 0.5 hectares

every two to three weeks through the main growing season. In addition to delivering results on the ground, Jason has also been impressed with the honest and transparent approach he’s had from the Suståne technical team.

The Ram TXGD has a high-quality modular chassis that comes with a wide range of customisable options to help your general-duty trailer reach its full potential. Now there are no limits to what your trailer can do.

Suståne Enquiry 108