Landscape & Amenity Product Update March 2017

Commons inquiry warns parks face period of decline

Over the last few months

the Communities and Local Government Committee has been reviewing the future of Public Parks to examine the impact of reduced local authority budgets on these open spaces and consider concerns surrounding their future.

The Inquiry Report warns that parks face a period of decline from their current tipping point with potentially severe consequences unless their vital contribution to areas such as public health, community integration and climate change mitigation is recognised.

The Report highlights considerable challenges including reduced council spending, and parks management budget cuts of up to 97 per cent, the need for parks to compete with other services for funding and planning policy not giving them enough

weight, particularly as a result of pressures to increase housing supply. The Committee calls on councils to publish strategic plans, setting out how parks will be managed to promote healthy lifestyles, tackle social exclusion and manage flood risk.

In total 379 organisations and individuals submitted evidence to the Inquiry. Fields in Trust Chief Executive, Helen Griffiths, said welcomed the focus of the report and said: “As an advocate for parks, playing fields and recreation grounds Fields in Trust has been calling for just such a re-valuing of greenspace, to take account of the vital contribution they make to local communities.

“Fields in Trust believe we should re-value our green spaces as a resource which contributes to public health, mental wellbeing and community cohesion, not

Cycle security as simple as ABC

Letterform from Furnitubes International is a unique new range of cycle stands that introduces something very different to cycle parking, serving not just the practical role of locking cycles to, but also offering the opportunity of spelling out words in the external landscape of any site.

A complete alphabet of letters has been created, allowing any word to be formed, which might be a simple statement of their function as cycle stands, a name to visually reinforce the identity

of the site or establishment, or even to convey a message.

All letters offer multiple locking points and are manufactured in heavy duty steel bar with a hardwearing polyamide coating, to provide secure, robust and durable cycle parking provision.

Letterform cyclestands are offered with base plates for bolting down or extended roots for in-ground installation.

Furnitubes Enquiry 2

simply viewing parks as a drain on council finances for upkeep and we welcome the Committee’s recognition of that fact.

“Now that this value is acknowledged it is important that local authorities are supported to ensure green spaces are protected from development and maintained for public recreation for future generations.

“As the Housing White Paper has shown, there is pressure on land across the UK for housing and commercial development; existing planning legislation alone is not sufficient to prevent the loss of parks and playing fields.

“Some landowners and local authorities have worked with Fields in Trust to independently secure their green spaces; ensuring accessible public recreational land is protected forever. Fields in Trust

welcome the CLG Committee recommendation that councils should publish a strategy to demonstrate the value of parksbut without the protection of this land there is no guarantee that the contribution green spaces

make to health and wellbeing can be sustained.”

Read more reaction to the inquiry report on page 5.

Fields in Trust Enquiry 1

Perennial announces Sanctuary Garden for Hampton Court

The Perennial Sanctuary Garden at this summer’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show will raise awareness of the only charity dedicated to supporting everyone in the horticulture industry.

Designed by Tom Massey, who won an RHS Gold Medal and ‘Best Conceptual Garden’ at Hampton Court last year with

his first ever show garden, it is part of a new category at the show - ‘Gardens for a Changing World’.

The design takes a spiral form, with a changing colour palette of plants to symbolically represent the journey a Perennial client makes as they overcome difficulty with Perennial’s help. People turn to Perennial

for financial and emotional help when they are faced by challenges such as illness, injury, poverty, debt and old age and many describe the help Perennial offers simply as a ‘lifeline’.

Anita Bates, Director of Marketing and Development at Perennial comments: “Tom’s design for the garden represents the difference Perennial makes to thousands of horticulturists each year, helping them move through tough times to safety. We are excited to be working with a great team of partners from across the industry to bring this garden together and showcase the best in British horticulture.”

The team behind the garden also includes multiple gold medal winning contractor Landform Consultants, as well as top British suppliers including nursery Hortus Loci and stone paving specialists London Stone.

Perennial Enquiry 3

The long-awaited Commons inquiry report into the future of parks and green spaces was always likely to generate a great deal of reaction.

The fact that the committee of MPs highlighted the importance and wider community benefits of adequately funded and properly maintained parks and spaces won universal acclaim.

However, the dire warning of a very bleak future for those spaces unless Government acts quickly and decisively merely confirms the worst fears of the industry as a whole.

It is clear we need a plan of action that involves all those stakeholders – both at a national and local level – who are fighting hard to create a brighter future for our parks. Management by committee is always tricky, but that isn’t necessarily what is required. Our parks and green spaces need a clear, concise and universally agreed programme of investment and support that will create a lasting legacy.

We support the various bodies and local authorities campaigning hard to ensure the inquiry report leads to a more positive and coordinated approach to managing our parks and green spaces.

Editor

Paul Groves,

Crystal Palace increases fleet of Dennis G860s

Crystal Palace FC has recently purchased six Dennis G860 professional cylinder mowers, taking their total to a fleet of eight – and head of grounds & estates Bruce Elliot couldn’t be happier. Bruce has been in his current role for just over twelve months and has been in football groundsmanship for a number of years including roles at Reading FC and Fulham FC. With extensive knowledge of the industry, he knew exactly where to look when the time came to purchase a range of mowers.

“I’ve been in the industry for over 20 years and I’ve always used Dennis mowers. They’ve always provided me with great reliability so they were the only machines we looked at.”

As a long-term user of the Dennis G860, Bruce already had two of them at the Selhurst Park Stadium and he explained how they are used as part of his maintenance programme.

“At the stadium we use the G860’s all the time for mowing, for presentation and for the final cut on match days - which we cut at 23mm. They are just perfect for achieving that perfect finish building up towards a match.”

“We’ve got the 8-bladed cutting cassettes, the multi-dense brushes and the verti-cut units – which work in conjunction with one another really well. For example, after a pre-season friendly against Valencia, the manager and players felt that the pitch was a little bit too thick, so we put the verti-cut unit in and thinned the sward out slightly. Combined with the brush which takes the debris and loose grass off after a game, both of these cassettes have really helped to remove debris and allow new growth to come in.”

As Bruce says, the G860 features an interchangeable cassette system which gives the user the option of fitting 11 quick changeover cassettes including scarifiers, verticutters, brushes, spikers, and slitters as well as 6 or 8 bladed cutter cassettes.

Featuring a large diameter front roller with an adjustable scraper which has been designed for a precise height of cut control, giving an excellent finish, it also weighs in at just 166kg making it perfect for stadium pitch mowing.

Bruce oversees the maintenance of both the stadium and the training ground and based on the success of the G860’s at Selhurst Park, he decided to introduce them at the training ground.

“Previously we had two ride-on mowers at the training ground and they needed replacing as they were becoming less reliable. The club were willing to invest a bit of money into new equipment and we knew what the Dennis G860’s were giving us at the stadium. So that’s what we went for and the training ground has certainly improved since. It allows us to get a far better finish on the pitches, far better presentation and also it gives us the flexibility that we require.

On a day to day basis with the G860’s, we’ll be cutting in the morning and then brushing the trained-on areas afterwards.”

Bruce also revealed that it does make life easier with Dennis being a British manufacturer.

“We like to buy British if we can for the availability of spares but we chose to buy the G860’s because we consider them to be the best mowers on the market.”

Dennis Enquiry 7

Annual conference plans announced

The Amenity Forum conference and associated exhibition has become a must attend event for all involved or with an interest in weed, pest and disease management.

The Forum has announced that in 2017, it will take place on Thursday, October 12th, at the Pirelli Stadium, Burton on Trent. The conference will be entitled ‘Keeping Britain Moving’ and speakers will address the key issues in the sector.

Speakers include John Parker, who works for Transport for London, who will address the issue of keeping our cities moving.

Colin Mumford from Bayer will speak on the ‘appliance of science’ and Professor Alan Gange will take a specific look at biological control linked to his research programme at Royal Holloway University of London.

A leading head groundsman will give his views on the pressures of producing high quality sports surfaces and a session led by two leading sector experts will pose the question ‘What is

the future for weed, pest and disease management’.

The full programme will be released at the end of February when bookings will commence.

The Forum is also currently engaged in running its series of half day free Updating Events across the UK.

Amenity Forum Enquiry 6

BTME and SALTEX both enjoy record pre-bookings

Both BTME 2018 and SALTEX 2017 have reported record numbers of exhibitors are already signing up for the events.

The sun may have just set at the recently-renamed Harrogate Convention Centre on another successful BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition, but plans are already well underway

to ensure BTME 2018 is bigger and better than ever.

Before the 2017 exhibition had even closed, the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association, which hosts the event, had already sold 950 square metres of space at BTME 2018. That amounts to 25% of the available stand space. This

number is four times the usual amount sold by the close of the show and is the equivalent of an entire hall at the convention centre already being sold out.

A further 550m2 were sold before the end of January, meaning 40% of available space at BTME 2018 has been booked up. This equates to rebookings being more than

a month ahead of last year’s numbers. Meanwhile, compared to January 2016, SALTEX 2017 has accumulated more than 50 additional exhibitors during the loyalty re-booking period –the number of SALTEX 2017 exhibitors now stands at an impressive 182, which continues to grow by the day.

The combined attendance of 8,754 high-quality visitors over the two days at SALTEX 2016 no doubt played a major factor when exhibitors were deciding whether to return for 2017, but the postshow exhibitor survey offers a greater insight into the exhibitor’s experience at SALTEX 2016.

SALTEX 2017 will be held at the NEC, Birmingham on 1 and 2 November 2017.

IOG Enquiry 10

Ready for the season ahead?

Brushcutting season will be starting soon. Do you have the right equipment? Whether you are on the roads, rail or have some ground to clear. It is always best to be seen and be safe.

SIP brushcutting trousers come in 3 colours, the standard green, Hi-Viz yellow and Hi-Viz orange.

The green 1SQ8 trousers are lightweight with protection against flying debris thanks to the fixed impact resistant padding. The trousers are easy to clean, thanks to the waterproof polyamide front.

The Hi-Viz trousers conform to EN471 class 2-2, which have a removable impact resistant foam. They are waterproof and breathable, which avoids water penetration for increased comfort.

SIP Protection Shin Guards offer good protection against flying debris when using a strimmer or a brushcutter.

There is foam on the inside of the guards that moulds to fit your leg making the guard more comfortable to wear. To fasten the guards, there are 2 leather straps on each shin guard. At the bottom of the guard there is a piece of leather that covers the top of your work boots, to stop any debris from entering your boots.

The Pyramex Face Shield is a polycarbonate lens provides 99% UVA/B/C protection, as well as protection against dust and chemical splash, providing increased facial protection. Certified to: EN166. The goggles have removable vent caps allow the user to remove when more ventilation is required or leave in place for chemical splash protection.

BIGGA gives backing to Golf Sustainability Project

Golf courses in the UK cover an area equivalent to the Lake District National Park.

Unmanaged areas, which provide habitat for wildlife, wildflowers and other flora and fauna, are estimated to cover more than 1,000 square kilometres, or the equivalent of The New Forest and Pembrokeshire Coastal Parks combined.

Golf courses offer improved air quality, carbon dioxide absorption, air temperature reduction, rainwater run-off attenuation and a host of other valuable natural processes.

The idea of a Golf Sustainability Project has been developed following extensive discussions between Tony Hanson from Environmental Solutions International Ltd, Dr David

With support from BIGGA, CMAE and England Golf, ESi has designed a short questionnaire, for completion by those in the golf industry, that will gather baseline information on the natural environment and resource consumption.

With sufficient information it may be possible to make a case for funding and resources from a range of NGO’s, charities and academic organisations.

“BIGGA

The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association is working alongside England Golf and a number of other organisations to produce a Golf Sustainability Project, and is now appealing for help to take the scheme to the next level.

Slawson and Dr Poppy Lakeman Fraser from Imperial College London and Howard Craft from Burhill Golf and Leisure.

BIGGA Sustainability Executive James Hutchinson said:

is delighted to be working closely with Environmental Solutions International Ltd and the Golf Sustainability Project.

“We look forward to assisting the golf industry become more sustainable and as a consequence to be heard by the Parliamentary decision makers.”

BIGGA

Parks inquiry report fuels call for Government to act to safeguard green spaces

The Communities and Local Government Committee review into the future of public parks and green spaces prompted a large number of responses from across the industry.

Matthew Bradbury, Chairman of The Parks Alliance, said the report gives everyone, the public, park professionals, local and central government the opportunity to seek solutions and avoid merely nursing our parks into a managed decline.

of parks beyond leisure and recreation but there is a role for central government too. The Government should issue guidance to councils to work with Health and Wellbeing Boards and others. But they can and should, do more.

“Fundamentally, we believe there is a case for greater leadership to ensure our public parks and open spaces thrive. We would go further than the report and ask that investment is directed by central government to ensure there is strong leadership in the parks sector.

“It’s important that the Committee has recognised that parks are central to our wellbeing but it is bitter sweet to read a report which confirms what we have believed for some time that parks are at a tipping point,” he continued. “They are at the heart of British life yet are a cinderella service set against competing financial demands.

“The Parks Alliance would support the call for local authorities to publish strategic plans to recognise the value

“We have long counselled that there is no single solution that will solve the long term sustainability of parks. The Alliance stands ready to help and explore alternative models with the Parks Minister, Andrew Percy MP, the Local Government Association and local authorities.”

BALI’s Chief Executive Wayne Grills, also welcomed the recognition that parks play a vital role in in the communities they serve.

“The intention that the Minister report back annually to Parliament on progress made is welcomed,” he said.

“The report clearly acknowledges that whilst volunteer groups make an important contribution to trying to hold back the deterioration of some public parks, there are limitations to relying on volunteers.

“The report also acknowledges that parks need to be managed for the long term. BALI members who are already part of the ongoing solution providers and partners of Local Authorities, are keen to work with senior representatives at local and government level to

help develop and drive forward viable and sustainable park maintenance strategies.”

API Chair Mark Hardy described the report as an opportunity to reprioritise the crucial role that our parks and green spaces play.

“I’m encouraged that the Communities and Local Government Committee, values the environmental contribution of parks and their positive impact on the mental and physical health of the communities they serve,” he explained. “As advocates for the importance of children’s play, particularly in the midst of an obesity epidemic, we know that parks have a pivotal role in combating children’s sedentary lifestyles.

“Evidence shows that children are more active if they have access to outdoor play facilities. Investment in parks and public play facilities should be a government priority, particularly for deprived communities, where obesity rates are highest.

“We know that there are pressures on land for housing and commercial development so it’s essential that local authorities are supported in protecting their

green spaces. We welcome this report as a timely reminder of the vital and perhaps undervalued role that parks play in all our lives.

“Prioritising our green spaces will help alleviate wider societal problems such as social exclusion, mental health and anti-social behaviour. Parks are treasured community assets, worthy of protection and should be wellrepresented in the Government’s 25-year Environment Plan and other policy areas.”

The Landscape Institute called on the government to review the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) to ensure that our parks, green spaces and green infrastructure (GI) is appropriately planned, designed and managed to achieve multiple benefits for society.

Merrick Denton-Thompson, President of the institute, said: “We need a demonstration of national leadership and commitment at the highest level.

“GI as the network of natural systems within and between settlements, does not respect administrative boundaries so that should be reflected in both government and local planning authorities. Both need to consider how their plans for GI may impact on, and interact with, those of neighbouring authorities and across government.

“It is clear to us that the NPPF is inadequate in terms of a coherent message which supports parks as a key component of green infrastructure, the green lungs of our towns and cities. I would like to see it improved, not least by strengthening the Duty to Cooperate. Amending NPPF is unlikely to be an attractive proposition for Government but changes need to be made.”

PAUL HERMON, GREEN AND GORGEOUS

SolidGear and ToeGuard’s new safety footwear catalogue

The 2017 Product and Price Catalogue has full details of the complete range of the UK’s most stylish Safety Shoes, Boots and Trainers from Hultafors UK’s own SolidGear and ToeGuard brands.

With four very different types of products – TUFF, ATHLETIC, TREKKING and OCCUPATIONAL – there’s a product to suit almost every footwear need on site.

There’s also loads of other information on all the important product features – Comfort and Safety, Fabrics and Linings,

BOA System Technology, Caps and Plates, Water Repellency, Oil- and even Heat-resistance –to get you working and walking safely, effectively and in comfort wherever you are on site – and whatever trade you’re in.

Hultafors Group UK Enquiry 15

ClearWater is a winner at GIS 2017 too

Highspeed Group, buoyed by the success of their ClearWater prize draw at BTME 2017 in the UK, ran the same prize draw at the Golf Industry Show in Orlando USA this year.

MD, David Mears said: “ClearWater is the sole product we focus on at the GIS and the prize draw certainly increased interest in our unique wash station water recycling system. Our aims at the show were to build on the success of our installation at East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta and develop sales of our product in the USA.”

Snickers Classic Series 3 WorkTrousers

Available in a choice of hardwearing, but comfortable DuraTwill, Canvas+ or Rip-Stop fabrics for long-lasting durability, the stylish cut in these garments has an advanced Twisted Leg design for a modern fit that delivers outstanding working comfort in every move you make on site.

The tough Cordura reinforcements on the knees and inside the holster pockets give extra durability, while the kneepad pockets are designed for the special KneeGuard positioning system for superior protection and comfort.

The trousers also feature a range of handy pockets, including holster pockets and easyto-access leg cargo pocket with separate mobile phone compartment and four pen/tool compartments.

Snickers Enquiry 17

The prize of a ClearWater system was won by Todd Schaublin, asst. superintendent at Napa Valley Country Club in California. Todd, told of his win after the draw, informed the club and later was able to confirm acceptance of the prize.

With water conservation high on the agenda and concerns about pollution prevention, Highspeed Group sees potential across the US for their ClearWater system and hopes to be working with a distributor soon.

Installed below ground, unlike most other systems, unobtrusive ClearWater offers a system that is uncomplicated to operate and maintain. The efficient system, firmly established in the UK, represents exceptional value for money too, particularly as it is available for self-installation, enabling costs to be reduced.

Highspeed Group Enquiry16

Course redesign includes complete Toro irrigation system

Oakmere Golf Club’s course redesign and expansion presented the perfect opportunity for the up-and-coming club to replace its 40-year-old irrigation system with Toro and bring the entire site above par. Those operating the new system can now exact more control and as a result are already seeing water and cost savings, as well as improved turf quality.

The club opted for a Lynx control system and a range of sprinklers, from Infinity to T7s, to not only maintain the course but to “raise its standards and maximise playability,” says director of golf Daryl St John Jones. “Our previous system was 40 years old and the pipes were brittle and cracked. This led to huge losses of water. Now we have strong polyethylene pipes and the new system will alert me to any leaks, which is very reassuring and will save us a lot of money.”

conditions suddenly change overnight, the head greenkeeper can log on to the system from home and change the settings accordingly,” says Daryl.

Replay takes new cork infill pitch in their stride

In early 2016, a £750,000 upgrade was made to install a new artificial pitch at Newmarket Town FC, one of the first full size pitches in the UK to have cork infill. To protect and maximise the lifespan of their investment, Club Secretary Graham Edwards enlisted the help of synthetic specialists, Replay Maintenance.

Filling a pitch with cork is becoming more common throughout continental Europe as an alternative to rubber and carries a number of benefits; its 100% organic from a renewable source; it doesn’t absorb water helping to

keep the surface free draining; it’s odourless and from an aesthetic point of view, it plays and looks like a natural football pitch. Steven Spence, Operations Manager at Replay Maintenance commented,

“The uprated REVIVE PRO machine and process gives us a whole host of additional benefits. These include more horsepower enabling us to fully de-compact a surface without the need for tines - thanks to the increased control and productivity at the brush-head. It also features an uprated turbine for increased vacuum capacity and dust/detritus separation and of course the all-important cab to safeguard our Operative against noise and the elements.”

Replay Maintenance Enquiry 18

And with the control provided by his new Lynx system, Daryl is pleased to report the turf is “flourishing”: “Lynx gives far more control to the operator; water distribution can be as precise as 5mm to the greens or 4mm to the tees and the weather station monitors the humidity so water is not lost to evaporation. The variation provided by Lynx is great too, as you can give different amounts of water to different greens. Plants are flourishing as the green is never flooded, instead it’s given just the right amount of water, and we’ve seen a significant reduction in our water bills.

“Another benefit of Lynx is it’s linked to the internet; our head greenkeeper operates it from his tablet and I use my phone. Thanks to this I can test the sprinklers on course to check if they are working to the correct arc and, should weather

Oakmere is in the process of expanding from 27 holes across two courses to 36 holes across three following consultation with leading golf architect Tom Mackenzie. Daryl comments: “We are just about to enter our third out of five years of renovation work. One of our main objectives is to build a nine-hole par three academy course. In doing so, we will cater to golfers of all levels, with the academy course for beginners, the commanders course for intermediates, and the admirals course for championship level players.”

The golf complex is open to all abilities all-year-round thanks to its free-draining courses, which remain bone-dry throughout the winter. However freedraining soil does come with its disadvantages: “The sandy ground retains less water and the way the ground holds waters across the courses varies, this made it paramount for us to invest in a quality irrigation system to cater to the needs of the turf,” says Daryl.

And by all accounts Toro is delivering, with Daryl noting “improvements to the quality of the courses” since its installation. Combine this with a huge redesign and it looks like Oakmere is set to flourish and grow over the next couple of years.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 19

THE BI-SPEED TURNING POINT FOR TURF CARE.

If you want a tractor that’s better at every turn, turn to the Kubota B50 Series. Calling upon over 50 years of innovation and engineering excellence, the latest generation of Kubota tractors incorporates bi-speed turning to increase manoeuvrability and minimise turf damage. The B50 has been designed to deliver outstanding performance, economy and reliability and is also available with an integral air-conditioned cab for maximum operator comfort and productivity. For more information about Kubota’s diverse range of world-class groundcare machines and aftersales support service, visit www.kubota.co.uk or call 01844 873190.

Reesink Turfcare wins Otterbine marketing award

Reesink Turfcare has been named Marketing Distributor of the Year by Otterbine, whose water aeration management systems Reesink distributes solely in the UK and Ireland.

Pitched against all Otterbine’s international distributors this

is high praise indeed for the company, who won for its “continued excellence in raising the exposure of Otterbine in all market sectors, from golf, municipal, commercial and residential”, says Otterbine’s international region manager, Reg Varney.

Reg continues: “Reesink’s efforts and the quality of the marketing material the team produces is always excellent and the company’s continued commitment to supporting the Otterbine dealer and sales network consistently raises the profile of the brand in the areas we need it to.”

The award was presented to Reesink Turfcare managing director David Cole, irrigation field sales manager Robert Jackson and field sales representative Peter Newton by Otterbine CEO Charlie Barebo at the annual GIS show in Orlando. David comments: “It was an honour to accept this award from Otterbine. We have always placed a great deal of importance on supporting the brands we distribute with solid marketing activity. This was the case for many years as Lely Turfcare and nothing has changed in that respect since

the acquisition that sees us now operating as Reesink Turfcare.

“Whether it’s show support, advertising, creative, public relations, social media or digital marketing, we support all our brands with the same dedicated team and creative and integrated approach, and take great pride in winning awards such as this.”

The innovative lake and pond aeration range from Otterbine has always perfectly complemented Reesink’s turfcare machinery and equipment product portfolio, whether for golf course reservoirs and water hazards, to ponds on large estates or for council maintained lakes in parks and recreational landscapes.

Holly Jones, Reesink’s marketing manager, adds: “We’re always listening to the objectives of our partners to make sure we create the right material to help them reach the audiences they want with the messages they need. It’s a rewarding job and one we do in partnership with our marketing and communications agency, head quartered in Norwich.”

Reesink Turfcare

Enquiry 23

Souters Sports put on a royal performance

Souters Sports have been commended by Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate in York after the company completed a multi-million pound project which involved a total re-development of the school’s existing playing fields and transforming them into professional sports pitches.

Queen Ethelburga’s, set in over 100 acres of manicured country park in the Vale of York, is ranked as the North of England’s academically most successful, independent coeducational day and boarding school. Standards are incredibly high at Queen Ethelburga’s,

which is highlighted by the school’s recent decision to invest over £80m in new resources and facilities. When the school announced that it was looking for a total re-development of the existing playing fields, it was imperative that they selected the best company to embark on the new multi-million pound project.

The mammoth project commenced in late March 2015 – the site was set-up and earth works began to cultivate and the re-levelling of the existing areas was carried out. The works progressed quickly on the initial project which included: one

cricket area comprising of six wicket squares (five natural and one synthetic) and an outfield area; one full size football pitch; one full size rugby pitch; five smaller pitches of varying sizes for dual-use football and rugby; full drainage systems; full irrigation system; and a network of footpaths.

Souters Sports Enquiry 24

Luxigraze is a new artificial grass range

Natural Paving Products (UK) Ltd has introduced Luxigraze, a range of premium artificial grass and supporting installation, care and maintenance products to offer a complete low-maintenance landscaping portfolio.

Currently available in four different specifications, 20 Premium, 30 Premium, 32 Luxury and 27 Super Luxury, the Luxigraze range is composed of polyethylene (PE) monofilament with polypropylene (PP) texturized root zone, providing outstanding durability.

Incorporating a high quality backing, each of the Luxigraze products also features a multi tone green pile, with tan thatch to give a superior natural finish. What’s more, all four grades of

the artificial grass come with a 10-year UV guarantee and are child and pet friendly.

Natural Paving Products (UK) Enquiry 25

BETWEEN CUTS.

Commercial pressure can mean reduced mowing frequencies. Cue new Meteor®, the mower created for today’s nancial landscape. With its 2.15m width of cut, Meteor is highly productive and cost-effective. Its triple heads oat like a cylinder, but because of its unique ail heads it is better suited to longer grass.

And it is extremely robust, so it shrugs off discarded debris. You’ll even spend less time clearing up clippings, because cut grass stays within the cutting track.

TOUGH TIMES, TOUGH MOWER. For your Meteor demo, call 01473 270 000 or visit www.ransomesmeteor.com

Terrain Aeration and the Valley of Fire

The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens are famous around the globe and have the world’s largest collection of hardy trees and shrubs anywhere in the temperate world.

The Gardens now hold fourteen National Plant Collections and the latest planting project has been named ‘Valley of Fire’.

The name is derived from the planting of over 30 different types of trees and shrubs that will create stunning autumn colour on both sides of what is currently known as Oak Tree Vista.

One of the challenges that faced the scheme was the need to create drainage in several areas of wet, heavy clay, to get the plantings off to a good start. David Jewell, Head of Collections, called upon the services of Terrain Aeration to

carry out systematic treatment of the areas around the new plantings.

“I have known of the Terrain Aeration service for many years,” says David, “and have used them before. Their machines do an excellent job with very little disruption, in our case in quite tight areas on very soft ground. The results always speak for themselves.”

Protect outdoor wooden Structures and patios with the Roxil range

The Roxil Outdoor Protection range from Safeguard Europe Ltd – the UK’s leading specialist in damp-proofing and waterproofing technology – weatherproofs wooden structures, patios and paving for 10 years whilst maintaining their natural appearances.

The range consists of Roxil Wood Protection Cream, Roxil Patio Cream and Roxil Wood & Patio Cleaner.

Roxil Wood Protection Cream is a cream emulsion used to protect softwood timber whilst retaining a natural appearance. It weatherproofs the surface of wood for 10 years with a single coat application, protecting it from the effects of moisture.

The benefits of an application of Roxil Wood Protection Cream include increased resistance to warping, increased resistance to dirt and a reduction in mould and algae growth.

Roxil Patio Cream is a cream emulsion used to protect patio

surfaces without changing their colour or texture. The product weatherproofs the surface of patios and paved surfaces for 10 years with a single coat application, making them less hospitable to algae, moss and ingrained lichens.

A Roxil treated patio or paved surface will be easier to clean and will not require cleaning as often as an untreated surface.

Roxil Wood & Patio Cleaner is a liquid based cleaner for exterior surfaces such as decking, fencing, sheds, patios and paved surfaces. The nondestructive and highly effective formula will remove dirt, moss and algae. It provides a soft-washing alternative to destructive power-spray and acidic cleaning methods.

The cleaner is ideal for use on surfaces that have been treated with Roxil Patio Cream or Roxil Wood Protection Cream.

Safeguard Europe Ltd Enquiry 29

Terrain

Snug creates endless ways to play

Sutcliffe Play has worked with their Belgium distributor, Maton Sports to introduce the new-look Snug Evolution loose parts playground kit into a school in Street.

Saint Louis School is home to nursery and primary ages children who have both been given the opportunity to engage with the colourful large scale, flexible play system at playtimes and as part of lessons.

Snug Evolution is designed to encourage social interaction, cooperation and problem solving and has been very well received by pupils and teachers.

The kit comprises 10 inter-related shapes which can be moved, joined and arranged by children to create new environments for play every time it’s used. Working with Snug & Outdoor, the original designer of the playground equipment, Sutcliffe

Play recently relaunched the kit as Snug Evolution with a new name, colour scheme and piece of equipment.

The kit has played an important role in schools as part of Physical Literacy from foundation to key stage 2 to stimulate natural exercise and embodies fundamental movement skills.

Sutcliffe Play Enquiry 28

Terrain Aeration Enquiry 27

Aeration primarily used their Terralift Tracker to treat the areas between and around the saplings. The soft rubber tracks allowed the machine to traverse the soft ground and let the operator treat and decompact the areas below any waterlogging.

Polypipe picked for Ipswich Town Academy training facilities

Championship team Ipswich Town Football Club has turned to Polypipe, the UK’s leading manufacturer of sustainable drainage, sewer, water management solutions and cable protection products, to provide a land drainage solution for its pitches at the club’s Playford Road training ground.

Polypipe has supplied over 2,000m of its PVCu Landcoil in 80mm and 100mm diameters, which will offer significant improvements to the existing pitches which suffered from waterlogging.

The Landcoil system is specifically designed to aid in the successful management of land water, offering significant improvements in areas where

poor drainage negatively affects ground quality.

The BSI Kitemarked Landcoil system was designed and installed by Les Cotton Contractors at the conclusion of the 2015/16 football season, so as not to interfere with the team’s match day preparations. The system includes a range of couplers and junctions, and is one of the most popular land drainage systems in the UK.

In the system designed for the football club, the Landcoil pipes are connected together with integral couplers, with a three lug design to allow for an easy installation, whilst removing the possibility of the coils pulling away from each other during the installation process.

Emma Nicholls, Marketing Manager, Polypipe Civils, comments: “Landcoil is a versatile solution that is tried and tested for sports and leisure projects which struggle with the impact of excess surface water.”

Polypipe Enquiry 31

Contractor takes delivery of Grillo machines

Grillo UK has recently supplied national contractor Hortech Ltd with two of their latest Grillo AWD ride on brush cutters.

For a number of years Hortech Ltd have been using the Climber 9 series but after a successful demonstration of the new AWD version decided to upgrade for the coming season to fulfil their East Midlands contracts.

The machines were supplied by local dealer PS Marsden of Nottingham who will offer both service and spare parts supply to them. Hortech Ltd are a specialist Landscape Management company providing a comprehensive range of horticultural services throughout the UK via a national network of non-franchised depots.

Grillo UK Enquiry 33

Rockwood WPC Decking range adds beauty and elegance

Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) is a relatively new environmentally friendly material that utilises wood waste and recycled plastics - producing a range of attractive finished, and semi-finished products which combine the look and feel of real hardwood with outstanding durability.

Rockwood WPC decking is the ideal alternative to traditional timber deck boards - providing you with a sound floor underfoot for all your outdoor relaxation and socialising.

Unlike timber decking, WPC is water resistant, will not rot, splinter or require painting or staining to retain its appearance, and importantly does not promote algae growth and is slip resistant when wet. Quick to install and fix, the WPC deck boards are easy

to handle, can be worked just like timber and do not require any specialist tools.

The WPC Boards are simply secured to the sub structure with hidden fastening clips made from nylon or stainless steel. This leaves the deck surface free from unsightly fixing screws and the installation can be complimented by a range of matching finishing profiles and perimeter balustrades.

WPC Decking Boards with a Wood Grain finish are soon to be added to the range. These will be available in Dark Green, Dark Grey and Brownish Red colours. Rockwood WPC Products are part of the extensive range of items offered by Rockwell Building Plastics.

Rockwell Enquiry 32

Realistic GeoLink simulator highlights spraying accuracy

Reesink Turfcare has introduced the GeoLink Precision Spray System simulator.

Complete with touchscreen and steering wheel, the simulator realistically demonstrates application rates, coverage maps, area and volume data, that the industry’s first turfbased precision spray system is designed for.

Available for use with the Toro Multi Pro 5800 and 1750, GPS

technology and a single nozzle level control means application is accurate to within 10mm.

Neil Adams, training manager at Reesink Turfcare, says: “The simulator provides a realistic operational experience of this fantastic technology. The level of accuracy is something that needs to be seen to be believed.”

The simulator was showcased at BTME in January on the Reesink stand, which was

joined by a selection of Toro machinery favourites and latest launches, including the Reelmaster 3575-D, which launched in 2016, and the Workman GTX, which debuted at BTME 2016.

Representing Toro’s irrigation range was the new Stealth Kit, Lynx PC control system, the Flex series sprinkler and the B series sprinkler. Stealth, the latest addition to the ever-popular Infinity series golf sprinkler, with its innovative patentpending design allows grass to grow directly on top of the sprinkler and eliminates not only turf disruption and damage, but the hard surface bounce should a golf ball land above it.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 34

Bituchem improves landscape for park

Hard-landscaping specialists, Bituchem, have recently been involved in the refurbishment of Coleshill Memorial Park in North Warwickshire.

Bituchem’s Natratex Cotswold was specified by architects Moore Environment to provide a smooth durable surface for a new adventure playground and pedestrian footpaths.

Bituchem’s Natratex is the company’s ‘flagship’ product and has been used for various applications in parks and

playgrounds prior to the application at Coleshill Memorial Park, due to its safety benefits and modern aesthetics.

The material is created using naturally- occurring aggregates bound with Bituchem’s specialist clear resin binder to give it the complete compactness that it requires. The Cotswold aggregate offers an aesthetically pleasing alternative to a traditional tarmac finish, with the same long-lasting qualities as asphalt.

Bituchem

Oak framed garage prices reduced

Round Wood of Mayfield has announced that they have been able to reduce the price of their Chippy oak framed garage kits by ten per cent.

The range of ‘Chippy’ kits comprises 47 standard designs, from 1 to 4 bays, in a variety of roof profiles. Additional options of half-bays, log stores and side aisles allow for most requirements to be catered for (although modifications are possible).

Kit frames appeal to many customers as they are predesigned, represent excellent

value and are typically available on shorter lead times. Round Wood even keep some of their frames in stock.

Chippy kits are also suitable for self-assembly by general tradespeople and even accomplished DIY enthusiasts; full instructions are supplied and posts are pre-cut and numbered. Dry fitting in the workshop ensures quality and ease of build once on site.

Alternatively, Round Wood do have their own teams that travel nationwide to assemble both kit

and bespoke frames. They can also carry out groundworks and roofing should a full service solution be required.

A further advantage of Chippy kits is their possible exemption

from planning requirements. As the ridge heights are below 4m on all designs, permitted developments rights are granted for the majority of projects.

Round Wood Enquiry 38

Plaswood presents new contemporary seating designs

The new, 100 per cent recycled Plaswood Edge bench introduces a maintenance free and sophisticated product range which combines versatility with outstanding long life properties, stylish designs, together with sweeping contemporary lines, for both outdoor and indoor settings.

Made using tough, technically superior waste plastic which offer exceptional performance properties, Plaswood has a life expectancy of over 50 years and

appeals to customers looking for value for money over the lifetime of the product; it doesn’t rot, splinter, crack or degrade, and neither does it need painting annually, so it really is a case of fit and forget.

The Edge comes in black, brown or mixed colours, and is available as a flat-pack kit or fully assembled.

Plaswood Enquiry 39

Landscaping materials create contemporary university space

The Pavilion is a newly launched scheme that has been completed to create a new identity for reform in educational architecture at Nottingham Trent University’s Clifton Campus.

The University has invested £13 million into modernising the area to create an holistic space that utilises contemporary building materials, such as waterstruck pavers, to provide synergy amongst an eclectic surrounding.

Flanked by new signature buildings, with a majestic colonnade, the triangular space

features geometric banding within its paving to echo the structure and create a strong sense of cohesion between each building and its landscape.

Using the Wienerberger Rosa Waterstruck clay pavers and Hardscape Kellen Lavaro Wit and Grijs paving, the landscaping of the site works to seamlessly compliment the architecture’s material palette, to achieve the sense of partnership between mediums.

Wienerberger Enquiry 40

Solar street furniture set to boom in 2017

Townscape Products is predicting a boom in demand for solar street furniture in 2017 as authorities seek sturdy, safe and sustainable products that boast zero running costs.

The firm which manufactures a broad range of solar products including shelters, noticeboards and solar bollards – is currently developing an extended range of products for release in 2017 that are being designed to meet customer requirements.

According to Townscape and sister company Bollards HQ which is pioneering advances in solar bollards – the present rise in sales and enquiries for solar

street furniture coincides with the technology commercially coming of age.

Townscape Products Enquiry 41

Traditional design is paving the way

The Old Town and Old Riven collections, both traditional in design, have outperformed expectations.

Old Town is a concrete paver that authentically recreates the appearance of old timeworn York flagstones, featuring a riven appearance, tooling marks and weathered edges.

Its profiles are faithful replications with individual character, lifted from natural stone flagstones that were laid as flooring in a cotton mill in the north of England in the late 1700s and early 1800s.

Old Riven was the first of Bradstone’s riven paving ranges to be cast and manufactured from

polyurethane moulds. Here, the profiles were taken from slabs of quarried split natural limestone in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The profiles then being turned in masters tools and dressed by hand with a sawn edge detail.

Recent product development has seen Bradstone investing in improved manufacturing moulds and pigments in order to enhance the quality of Old Riven, whilst making sure the price remains competitive.

A striking alternative from Long Rake Spar

New Charcoal Black Slate chippings provide an alternative colour choice for customers.

Drawing on the success of the established Slate Range, Long Rake Spar are pleased to introduce this striking addition to the range which is available in both 20mm and 40mm sizes.

Popular with landscapers and gardeners alike, these dark

grey slate chippings provide a stunning contemporary finish for urban spaces and modern garden designs. It is ideal as mulch for planting beds, around borders or for enhancing water features.

Charcoal Black Slate can be supplied in 20kg prepack bags, bulk bags or as a full load.

Long Rake Spar Enquiry 47

Natural Paving Products (UK) Ltd has supplied more than 1000 square metres of high-quality natural sandstone to be used for paving, steps, seating units and copings at the Centre For Digital Innovation (C4DI) in Hull.

The C4DI has been set up as a pioneering specialist business space to further build and connect Hull’s technology talent.

The £4m centre is home to a collective of digital companies and individuals who have an interest in furthering their own tech abilities, or are keen to keep their fingers on the pulse of an ever-changing market.

To attain the desired look Natural Paving Product’s Commercial Team supplied its Diamond Sawn York Mix sandstone. The paving

was supplied in both 600mm x 450mm and 600mm x 750mm sizes. With a warm multi colour palette, the flagstone creates a dynamic aesthetic, which is in perfect harmony with the culture of the centre and surrounding area.

A key consideration whenever specifying material for a commercial project is durability and availability of component

Bradstone Enquiry

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Natural products provide a vivid landscape

sizes. This was the case for C4DI, which needed a long-term natural solution that would require little maintenance whilst providing functionality of steps and seating in the same material. The first phase of activity consisted of over 1000 square metres of 50mm thick York Mix paving, as well as 80 linear metres of seating units, 190 linear metres of steps with granite inlays to assist the partially sighted and over 40 linear metres of wall copings.

During the second phase of activity, an additional 450 square metres of York Mix paving was installed along with 30 linear metres of coping stones.

Mike Jepps, National Sales Manager – Commercial, at Natural Paving Products, commented:

“York Mix sandstone is one of our most attractive and durable products and with it being laid in such vast quantities at C4DI the result is truly spectacular.

This project will stand the test of time and continue to look as good as it does now for many years to come.”

Natural Paving Products UK Enquiry 48

Hardscape unveils materials lab

Hardscape has launched its Materials Lab, a dedicated space for inspiration, advice and networking for those interested in hard landscaping.

The Materials Lab showcases the range of natural and man-made, ethically sourced materials available from Hardscape to enhance public realm and regeneration projects.

Hardscape boasts cuttingedge 3D technology featuring digital models of stone and hard landscaping materials.

Mathew Haslam, Managing Director of Hardscape explained: “The Materials Lab is a unique resource for landscape architects to explore, be inspired and get expert advice on materials.

“We are passionate about supplying quality materials and unbiased support to the industry and we hope that the Materials Lab will be a go-to for hard landscaping inspiration to bring creative visions to life.”

Hard landscaping manufacturer Bradstone is reporting an increased level of interest in traditional paving.

Barenbrug boasts next-level perennial ryegrasses and fescues

Barenbrug’s extensive portfolio of innovative grass seeds includes the market-leading, BSPB Turfgrass Seed and number one-ranked ryegrass cultivar Barolympic.

Barolympic is now available in four mixtures: BAR EXTREME, BAR MEDAL, BAR PLATINUM and BAR SALT & DROUGHT; each designed to enable greenkeepers and groundsmen to achieve their best surface yet, even in the most extreme environments.

Barenbrug also has BAR

FESCUE, still the number one fescue mix on the market for close mowing applications, featuring the #1 slender creeping red fescue, Viktorka, and the #1 Chewings red fescue, Barlineus.

Meanwhile, RPR, the unique Barenbrug grass seed taking the sports turf world by storm, is now available in three mixtures: EXTREME RPR for summer sports, RPR STADIUM for winter sports and BAR SPRINT for racecourses.

Club splashes some Colour into the course

By using a range of Limagrain Colour Splash flower mixtures, Jim Griffith has injected some stunning colour into the course at Henley Golf & Country Club in Arden, Warwickshire.

After taking up golf 18 years ago, Jim became a member of Henley Golf Club and soon made the most of retirement by playing regular rounds on the course which is set within the grounds of a 200 acre estate of landscaped parkland.

Three years ago Jim started taking more of an active role at the club by helping out around the course, cutting back hedges, trees, seeding, planting and other general maintenance tasks, before he was then joined by other club members wishing to volunteer.

“This year our volunteer numbers have swelled to 14,” says Jim.

“We call ourselves the ‘Ground Improvement Team Seniors, or GITS for short and generally help out after playing. Some days I can call upon six or more.”

Showing great dedication for their club, the volunteer group decided that the course would benefit from an injection of

colour. Having seen the nearby Gaudet Luce Golf Club with a stunning array of flowers, Jim sought the advice of the course manager who then passed on the details of Limagrain.

After working out potential costs he was given the go ahead by management and ordered a variety of seed on Matt’s recommendations – Festival, Honey Bee, Aurora and Bio Diversity two year mix.”

With the products in place, Jim and the team started the project by rotavating before seeding in May 2015.

A couple of months later and Jim was soon reporting excellent results.

The Festival mixture from Limagrain UK’s Colour Splash range contains a variety of beautiful mixtures including Cosmos Sulphureus, Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation, Sunbow Zinnia, Cornflower and Tithonia Torch.

Resulting in a mesmerising wave of colourful fl owers, this mixture stands at between 1m to 1.5m, or more, and can easily be seen from a distance.

Limagrain UK Enquiry 53

Rigby Taylor introduce new Tetraploid Technology Ryegrass seed range

Eight superb grass seed mixtures featuring Tetraploid Technology Ryegrasses, and launched, all with Germin-8 liquid seed treatment have been unveiled by Rigby Taylor.

Double the number of chromosones compared to diploid perennial ryegrass increases cellular chloroplasts that boost chlorophyll production for energy absorption.

This provides a more robust, healthier plant with stronger deeper root, greater disease and drought tolerance and superb colour.

Particular benefits during the main renovation and transitional sowing is the plants ability to provide faster germination at temperatures from 4°C and superior winter wear. Also, ideal selections for cold temperature divotting.

All of the individual grass seeds in the eight mixtures are preapplied with Germin-8 liquid seed treatment, a breakthrough in grass seed treatment. A cocktail of speciality penetrating surfactants, targeted nutrients, stimulants and micronised mycorrhizae are activated when the seed comes in contact with moisture in the rootzone, stimulating rapid cell division for faster germination and emergence, earlier root mass development and higher plant survival rates.

Independent trials have shown up to 100% increase in germination has been achieved after just 10 days.

There is a recommended mixture for every grass surface for construction, renovation, transitional seeding and repairs.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 54

Tetraploid‘R’rangegrassseed10daysafter treatment @ 8ºC. Left: Untreated. Right: Germin-8 treated.

Barenbrug Enquiry 52

iTurf success for Bolton Wanderers

Chris Simm, Head Groundsman for Bolton Wanderers FC, believes the pitch at Macron Stadium has benefited greatly from embarking on an ICL iTurf programme specifically tailored to its requirements.

Chris has been at Bolton Wanderers for the last twenty years where he has spent most of the time overseeing the management of the training ground in Euxton.

“With a heavily shaded stadium all the way round with no air movement, everything is about fertilizer and if you don’t get that right or the correct programme then you have no chance at all,” says Chris.

“I actually attended an open day at the STRI and Henry Bechelet (Technical Sales Manager) and Simon Taylor (Product & Business Development Manager for Grass Seeds) from ICL were there. Seeing the trials gave me confidence in the products and so I arranged for Phil Collinson (ICL Technical Area Sales Manager) to come in and see us.

“Firstly we did some soil samples, addressed any deficiencies with products like STEP Hi-Mag because we were low on magnesium.

“During the renovation programme we were also low on pH, so we applied some lime to bring that back up. Following that, we sat down together to devise an ICL iTurf programme.

“In this case, because the pitch is so free-draining, products tend to leach faster, than say

on a soil based pitch, so by using the technologies within the Sierrablen Plus and ProTurf ranges which have the coated nitrogen – it ensures that we never drop off a cliff and we avoid the peaks and troughs.

“But we also had to consider that on a really hungry site

such as this (ryegrass in a sandy root zone) we still needed to have conventional products in there - especially during that establishment phase where we are on such a tight window of eight weeks.”

ICL Enquiry 57

Johnsons ProNitro pays off for Bolton Wanderers

Bolton Wanderers academy and training facility, at the Lostock Training Grounds, are the latest to discover the benefits of the new ProNitro coated seed from DLF/Johnsons Seeds.

Chris Simm and his team of eight groundstaff have been trialling the Johnsons J Nitro Premier Pitch mixture at the 40 acre sitethe main aim being to reduce the renovation budget at the club.

“We’d read about ProNitro and the benefits of the coated seed. After talking to DLF’s John Hughes, and our local Pitchworks rep, we decided to give it a shot,” explained Chris.

A normal renovation regime would see him applying a preseed fertiliser then overseeding with the selected mixture.

“This new ProNitro option was attractive to us as it does the two jobs at the same time, freeing up labour and machinery for other tasks. During renovations time is of the essence as we only get a short window before pre-season starts - you want to get the seed in the ground and growing as quickly as possible.”

New semi-rough seed mixture for enhanced ecology

Germinal has added a new seed mixture to its Grade A range of sports seed products with the launch of a new semi-rough mixture for golf courses.

Designed specifically for use along the border between fairway and rough areas, A32 Ecological Rough is made up of five different grass species, all of which have been selected to produce a thin, easy to manage grass sward with added ecological benefits.

A32 Ecological Rough has been designed specifically to enable

greenkeepers to create fairway margins which adhere to the R&A’s guidelines regarding Pace and Play.

Comprising 60% Corail (strong creeping red fescue), 15% sweet vernal grass, 15% Teno (small leaved Timothy), 5% Aber Royal (browntop bentgrass), and 5% crested dogstail, A32 produces a sward with very thin growth habits with wispy seed heads that don’t usually exceed 30-60 cm in height. These species also offer an attractive and diverse

display of foliage throughout the summer, and create a valuable habitat for many species of native wildlife.

“A32 provides the perfect buffer between fairways and more offline areas of play,” explains Richard Brown, Germinal’s Amenity Sales Manager. “It creates an easy to manage sward which can be maintained via infrequent cutting to create a thin, semi-rough environment that enables rapid ball retrieval and onward play. It also creates

an ecologically valuable, natural grassland habitat, acting as an extension to wildlife-rich areas of thicker rough.”

Additional flower and heather species from Germinal’s extensive portfolio of wildflower seeds can also be added to the standard A32 mixture, giving greenkeepers and course managers the option to create their own bespoke seed mixture.

Germinal Enquiry 59

The J Nitro Premier Pitch mixture was applied at the same rate as regular un-coated seed, used on adjacent pitches, to provide a direct comparison of results. “

ProNitro is considered the ‘next generation’ of seed coat technology aimed at improving nutrient utilisation during the early stages of plant growth – particularly important when overseeding into a competitive sward.

Containing 10% Nitrogen, both fast acting and slow release, Nitrogen uptake with ProNitro is up to four times more efficient compared to broadcast applied fertilisers.

Johnsons Enquiry 58

All Pistol bottles now supplied with low drift nozzles

All bottles of the barrier acting, total herbicide, Pistol from Bayer, will now be supplied with two low drift sprayer nozzles and a stewardship checklist attached.

The addition of the low drift nozzles forms part of the new authorisation for Pistol which was officially re-registered by the Chemicals Regulation Division (CRD) under the new registration MAPP17451 in 2016.

The new authorisation confirms that Pistol is registered through to 2020. Bayer is already in the process of re-labelling bottles and distributors have until the end of February 2017 to sell

any remaining ‘old label’ stock. However, any individuals purchasing these products will have until February 2018 to use their stocks.

“The new nozzles will mean that amenity professionals using Pistol will have a more targeted spray pattern and chemical drift will be minimised, so the product only affects the target area and there is less wastage,” says Dr Colin Mumford of the Bayer Turf Solutions Team.

A key benefit of Pistol is that it has a long lasting, systemic and residual mode of action. Once it is applied, its effectiveness will

Stem injection of invasive species

For the last decade Japanese Knotweed Control has been using the stem injection technique pioneered in the UK by its sister company Stem Injection Systems (Europe) Limited.

Stem injection is one of the most successful and proven methods in which to treat Japanese knotweed which is ecologically sound and saves money over time.

Using a specialist tool designed to inject a measured amount of herbicide directly into the target species, this process is by far the most cost effective, ecologically sensitive and timely method of treatment. It allows treatment to be successfully completed on healthy Japanese knotweed in one growing season by supressing the growth with the plant naturally rotting into the soil over time.

The patented JK1000 injection tool has been specifically designed for herbicide

application and successfully tried and tested for over a decade both in the UK and within Europe and the United States. Studies from leading universities around the world have demonstrated the advantages of using stem injection over other herbicide methods and it is now being specified within tenders as the preferred method of treatment.

The key benefits with stem injection is that it’s specific to the target species and highly successful on healthy vibrant plants. As a contractor the key advantage over traditional foliar application is that work can be carried out in all weathers including howling gales and torrential rain. Other species of hollow cane invasive plants can be successfully treated by stem injection including Giant Hogweed and Himalayan Balsam.

Stem Injection Systems Enquiry 63

continue, as a barrier is created on the upper profile of the soil that will remain throughout the season, controlling germinating weeds and preventing their establishment.

The herbicide can be applied with a knapsack sprayer, and the nozzles are universal, so will fit to the user’s existing equipment.

Bayer Enquiry 61

Etesia takes on Oeliatec weed control range

Hot water wins the war on weeds

The uncertainty and controversy of conventional chemicals used in weed control is only due to intensify in 2017.

Industry professionals are looking for innovative ways to reduce their dependence on traditional herbicides without implicitly pricing themselves out of the market against their competitors in what is a highly competitive sector.

Now, 100% hot water weed control from Cardley Wave offers the only option for those looking for an effective solution that is also effi cient and ecological.

“Staff like to use it and public perception is good,” said William Spence, Executive Manager for Environmental Services at the Shetland Islands Council.

“We have no complaints from the public. The public see the lads working and note the results which enhances community relationships.”

Heating the water to an optimum temperature of 98° ensures the cellular structure of the plant is destroyed by thermal energy at low pressure and absolutely no chemicals or foam additives required.

As well as the instant results seen, Cardley Wave customers have noted results aren’t dissimilar to chemicals, needing only an average of 3-4 treatments per season.

In addition, the ability to wave goodbye to downtime has proven popular, with all systems being weatherproof, meaning they can be operated in wind and rain and in low temperatures. On top of that, anyone can operate with basic familiarisation training.

Its modern, multipurpose design allows for other areas of application, such as chewing gum and graffiti removal as well as high pressure cleaning, with just a change of the lance.

Etesia UK has taken on the distribution for the Oeliatec environmentally-friendly weed control range in the UK and Ireland.

The Oeliatec Company, based in Brittany France, has developed machines for environmentallyfriendly weed control, without the use of any chemicals.

Economic and ecological, Oeliatec offers you innovative weed control solutions.

Thermal weed control or killing weeds with hot water causes the explosion of plant cells and the breakdown of proteins. Hot water weed control requires fewer treatments compared to traditional chemical treatments and cost’s significantly less in comparison to other alternatives.

All Oeliatec weed control

machines kill weeds with 100% hot water by delivering an efficient low pressure treatment at temperatures of up to 120°C.

This destroys the cellular structure of the weed to kill off the plant. The intense heat penetrates deep into the root system killing the plant from the leaf down to the root. It is effective with all broad leaf plants and grass along with moss and algae which can also be removed at the same time.

Etesia UK is confident that the Oeliatec products will prove just as popular among UK local authorities as the Etesia and Pellenc brands have been over the past twenty-five years.

Etesia UK Enquiry 64

Hot water wins the war on weeds

Cardley’s 100% hot water weed control is the UK’s most established alternative weed killer on the market, providing customers with the most effective, efficient and ecological weed control.

Heating the water to an optimum temperature of 98° ensures the cellular structure of the plant is destroyed by thermal energy at low pressure.

Imitation systems such as steam claim to be as effective but do not get to the root of the problem.

Likewise, WWT Martin Mere trialled a hot foam weed control machine on several occasions, with limited success before opting for Cardley’s hot water system. Don’t compromise this season.

Cardley Wave Enquiry

The ‘Gemstone’ of granular weed killers

Gemstone Granules is the new name for grass and board leaved weed control around trees.

Marketed by Agrigem, Gemstone Granules is approved for use in amenity vegetation, forestry and ornamental plant production.

list of controllable weeds, and the range of trees and ornamentals it is safe to use around, contact Agrigem 0800 1337849.

Agrigem Enquiry 68

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Gemstone Granules should be the standard treatment when trying to control weeds around most trees and ornamentals thanks to its safeness to the plant, and the long-lasting control it offers.

Applying pre-emergence of the weeds will deliver long lasting control while also reducing established weeds.

Gemstone Granules is available in 1kg & 5kg packs. For more details and to view the full

Simple and sustainable solution to weeds

A high quality weed control membrane with proven performance, Plantex Platinium keeps knotweed (and other aggressive weeds such a horsetail, giant hogweed, couch grass, bamboo and himalayan balsam) reliably out of the picture.

An easy to install, single application is all that’s required for immediate results, whether covered or left uncovered in its discreet dark green hue.

Plantex Platinium also ensures a balanced soil environment and landscape stability by allowing nutrients and water to pass through, while preventing unwanted growth from penetrating upwards - all in a chemical free solution with a 35 year limited warranty.

The durability of Plantex Platinium is known to be 50 years, if topped with a 10 cm layer of soil. Many years of expertise and testing thus enables DuPont to offer a high-performance, low-hassle product with total confi dence – and with renowned levels of service and support.

Whether for public parks or private gardens, solar farms or

A blend of wetting, spreading and extending agents that enhances total herbicide activity, uptake and performance.

Speedway Total is a spray adjuvant that contains a blend of surfactants and spreaders. It is designed to enhance the effect of glyphosate and other total non-selective herbicide treatments.

Improves the speed of herbicide kill

Enhances the uptake of herbicide to help control of difficult weeds

Shown to improve performance of glyphosate against rhododendron

www.icl-sf.co.uk www.icl-sf.ie Tel: 01473 237116 Email: prof.sales@icl-group.com Contact your local distributor or ICL Technical Area Sales Manager for more information.

waterside pathways, Plantex Platinium allows landscape and horticultural professionals to deliver a non-biocidal and non-mechanical solution that also prevents further dispersion and contamination.

Offering high tear resistance, Plantex Platinium comes in widths of 1m, 2m and 5m, enabling extensive coverage and requiring fewer joints. Its permeability not only encourages soil health, but also means that installers don’t need to manage drainage of the covered area, or hydrostatic differential pressures.

In addition, lateral confinement of invasive weeds such as Japanese knotweed can be achieved by applying the vertical barrier Plantex Rootbarrier, which together with Plantex Platinium offers a complete system.

DuPont Enquiry 69

Correct nozzle selection for better weed control

Spray timing and application technique will have a highly significant impact on the success of the end result. With application timing, most herbicides give the greatest activity if applied when weeds are actively growing, he advised.

With the selective grassweed herbicide, Rescue, for example, experts advocate spring applications should be heldback until greenkeepers or turf managers are recording a consistent increase in the volume of daily clippings being taken off. In autumn, treatments are best

completed whilst there is still active daily growth, he added.

Syngenta Turf & Landscape UK Manager, Daniel Lightfoot reinforced that nozzle selection is a vital component of the art of application. “The aim is always to optimise spray hitting the intended target, and all important retention on the leaf,” he advised.

“Targeting a small grass leaf in a tight turf sward, such as a golf green or fairway, would require a finer spray droplet and lower water volume, compared to a big plant in a long sward of deep rough, for example.

“Essentially a small leaf that is difficult to wet can be better targeted with finer droplets, from an .025 or .04 nozzle, for example, but the downside is that the smaller droplets are harder to control - creating a greater risk of drift - and they have less velocity to penetrate a tight or deep sward, compared to bigger droplets from an 08 nozzle.”

Weeding out the issues with new Glyphosate regulations

On the August 1 2016 the new EU regulation came into force - (EU) 2016/1313 which specifically highlighted POE-tallowamine as a toxic chemical and banned its use as a co-formulant in the same product as glyphosate.

It also states that “Member States should ensure that the use of plant protection products containing glyphosate is minimised or prohibited in areas such as public parks and gardens, sports and recreation grounds, school grounds and children’s

playgrounds and in the close vicinity of healthcare facilities”.

Within these listed areas, one thing is for sure – councils and contractors will need to look at alternative ways of removing weeds in public places.

Weed strippers and brushes offer the ideal solution to this problem, taking away the worry of complying with legislation whilst doing exactly the same job. Eco-friendly and entirely chemical free, these devices

offer an easy and effective solution to weeding.

The attachable weed strippers from Koppl offer this key benefit and many more. Providing completely green weed removal, they will eliminate all traces of weeds, algae, moss and lichen and the debris that they thrive in, making regular maintenance simple and effective.

The weed strippers offer outstanding performance on many surfaces, including

Larger droplets can be effective in reducing drift, but the surface tension of a big droplet can physically bounce or roll off the leaf, without wetting the surface. Higher water volumes typically associated with large nozzle sizes can also result in over wetting of the leaf and reduced physical retention on the leaf.

Syngenta Turf Enquiry 72

New Complete Weed Control team for East Midlands

Complete Weed Control, the UK’s largest weed control contractor, has announced Conor Flynn as its newest franchisee to operate in the East Midlands.

Conor is the latest to join Complete Weed Control and after working with cars for the majority of his working career, he decided that it was time for a change of direction. When the opportunity arose to join Complete Weed Control he decided to learn more about the company, which ultimately played a major factor in his decision to alter his career path.

Conor spent a year learning the business inside out by working under David Cocks, who had been in charge of the East Midlands area since 2000. Having recently just taken over the full day-to-day running of the business, Conor feels he is now ready to push on and grow the business.

“I’ve got some great clients and work at some fabulous places, which includes golf courses and sports clubs and I’m really enjoying it so far,” he said. “My plan is to keep growing and building on the relationships that David has built up over the past 16 years.”

Since its beginnings in 1972, Complete Weed Control has gone from strength to strength and has built a reputation as the most professional and relied upon weed control contractor in the UK.

The CWC group has been complimented by its hugely successful business model. Every inch of the UK is now occupied by a Complete Weed Control operative and also has a growing presence in Ireland.

Complete Weed Control Enquiry 73

cobbles and block paving and with quick change functionality the power unit can be used for many other tasks such as sweeping or snow clearance.

PSD Groundscare Enquiry 74

Foamstream offers an award-winning alternative

Foamstream is the world’s leading, award winning, herbicide-free weed control product.

It is a biodegradable foam made from natural and renewable plant oils and sugars which can be precisely applied to weeds together with hot water.

Not only does Foamstream offer the most cost-effective, versatile, and environmentally safe way of controlling weeds, algae and moss on all surfaces, in all-weather, but our system now also comes with optional extra lances so the product can deliver added cleaning benefits

and functionalities including cleaning patio and pavements, effectively removing chewing gum, as well as cleaning bins and street furniture.

Weedingtech Enquiry 75

Mounted sprayer range for amenity sector

FGA mounted sprayers manufactured by FarmGEM Ltd represent a new solution offering cost savings and increased productivity to the amenity and turf sector.

The range, available from Agrigem, is built using high quality steel and components that are all specified to meet the latest legislation.

The strong, yet light and compact design enables connection to most tractors and operation is straight forward with all control functions located together and within easy reach.

The operator has easy control of main on/off, individual spray section on/off, pressure adjustment, tank rinsing nozzle and turbo agitation jet.

The powerful 75 litre/min diaphragm pump provides more than adequate flow for

application and can easily handle liquid fertilisers too. The liquid flow system is protected by both a large in-line suction filter and tank neck basket filter, cutting down on blocked pipes and nozzles.

The boom height can be manually adjusted to suit differing conditions and spraying with only one wing boom open is possible for smaller areas, also as an option a retractable hose reel and

spraying lance can be specified allowing applications away from the machine around buildings and pathways for example

Agrigem Enquiry 79

Evolution knapsack sprayer makes life easier for amenity users

Rigby Taylor’s Evolution knapsack sprayer range has been specially developed for the amenity professional user.

Reduce your glyphosate application by 66%* without compromising weed control.

Diflufenican adheres to the surface forming a barrier which prevents germination

The system package has been designed to apply products effectively at 1 bar pressure and, with the supplied nozzles, apply a medium to coarse spray application rate of 150 litres per hectare, at normal walking speed.

Each Evolution knapsack sprayer comes equipped with 1 bar cf pressure regulator and a range of nozzles that offer operators a choice of spray swath widths as well as a nozzle for spot treating.

As the Evolution system controls many application variables, Rigby Taylor will also be supplying users with specific dilution recommendations for its range of products – meaning that the operator simply selects a suitable nozzle for the area being sprayed.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry

80

Check your equipment

As we head into the new growing season now is not just the time to think about ground care products but also to make sure equipment is up to scratch too.

Often equipment such as knapsacks, spreaders and personal protection equipment (PPE - coveralls, gloves and masks) have been put into storage and degraded.

Louise Boothman of Progreen said: “Since the launch of the Voluntary Initiative (VI) and the requirement for routine testing of boom sprayers, slug and granular applicators we are getting far more enquiries - not only for NSTS testing but replacement spare parts too.

“The message of having your equipment in shape is now high on the amenity sector agenda.”

Wipe out weeds with Wessex

There is a large wheel at each end, one of which drives the

rotation and the roller runs in the opposite direction to the travel of the Rotowiper to allow thorough coating of the underside of the leaf. The machine is height adjustable to ensure all

weed types and growth stages are catered for. A reliable pump transfers chemical from the tank to the carpet, coating it evenly and thoroughly to ensure the weed receives the right amount of lethal chemical.

The Wessex Rotowiper is available in a 2.4m width and can be used on any vehicle with a tow hitch.

Wessex International Enquiry 82

Progreen Enquiry 81

The Wessex Weedwiper attaches to a standard ball hitch on an ATV, UTV or 4 x 4 and comprises a unique roller carpet mounted on a sturdy mainframe.

roller

Successful open day for Agrigem

Agrigem opened its doors for the official opening of ‘Gem House’ with guests attending a champagne reception and a grand tour of the new 6000sqft office and warehouse headquarters.

The building was opened by the chairman of the Amenity Forum, Professor John Moverley OBE.

Agrigem has invested £750,000 in the relocation of its headquarters and includes 4000sqft of specialist racked warehouse space to house 185,000 litres of hazardous product; and 2000sqft of office space which is designed to accommodate 15 full time employees.

The neighbouring unit has also been secured along with expansion land at the rear of the

building to allow future growth and storage needs. The building has many features that were incorporated in to its build, to not only comply with the various environmental implications but also to provide a nice working environment for all of the team.

Founded by Managing Director Kieran Would in 2013, the company has grown into a multi-million pound business and specialises in a number of products including weed killer, fertiliser, grass seed and advice. The warehouse will store various specialist products, which are destined for everything from gardeners, farmers, top class golf courses, racecourses, and football pitches.

Agrigem

Get up to date on glyphosate

It’s the topic that won’t go away – virtually every day a new social media feed or tabloid news story brings glyphosate back into the spotlight. Farming industry leaders are now campaigning to secure the future of this active ingredient.

And in groundcare, contractors, groundsmen and local authorities are even more exposed to public opinion as parks, open spaces and street maintenance teams are in constant contact with the community.

Manda Sansom, Technical Development Manager at Monsanto, manufacturer of leading glyphosate herbicide Roundup, comments: “Glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides are among the most thoroughly tested and evaluated pesticide products in the world.

was extended for a further 18 months to allow for the European Chemicals Agency, (ECHA), to prepare its scheduled Safety Assessment. In parallel, the Commission proposed certain restrictions for glyphosate during the 18 month extension period.

Amendments to glyphosate authorisations require Member States to ensure that plant protection products containing glyphosate do not contain the coformulant POE-tallowamine, (also referred to as POE-t or ETA).

Regulation Directorate have taken these risks into account, so you can be confident that using glyphosate products according to the label will be compliant with this EU regulation.

What happens next? The EU approval process will start again - once the scheduled Safety Assessment from the ECHA is issued in March - and will be completed by 31st December 2017.

smaller plants which may lower overall volumes.

Enquiry 84

“Their 40-year history of safe use is supported by one of the most extensive worldwide human health, crop residue and environmental databases ever compiled on any pesticide.”

What is happening now with glyphosate? The current licence for glyphosate was due to expire at the end of June 2016 and because no decision on its renewal had been taken by the European Commission’s Standing Committee the licence

A transitional period for the sale and distribution of ETAcontaining products up to 30th June 2017 and for disposal, storage and use of existing stocks until 30th June 2018 is now in force. This means end users have until the end of June 2018 to legally use up all such products, but retailers must sell out by the end of June this year.

In addition, Member States were instructed to pay particular attention to Groundwater in vulnerable areas, with particular respect to non-crop uses, and risks from the use in specific areas referred to Article 12(a) of Directive 2009/128/EC (Sustainable Use Directive).

Herbicide authorisations issued in the UK by the Chemicals

Will I still be able to buy glyphosate products during this process? Product availability will continue throughout, with the exception that products containing ETA will cease to be on sale from 30th June 2017.

What can I do to help safeguard glyphosate’s future? Use up products containing ETA by 30th June 2018 and switch to products which do not use this ingredient such as Monsanto’s Roundup range.

Ensure that you are demonstrating best practice when using glyphosate – following product label recommendations and complying with SUD.

Look at techniques such as spot spraying to restrict spray to the target plant and discuss with clients the suitability of more frequent, targeted applications to

Four ways to control weeds from Headland Amenity

The line-up of selective weed control products from Headland Amenity are fully approved for amenity use.

Four herbicide products feature in the Headland range. Redeem, is a premium herbicide designed to control a wide range of common turf weeds.

The 3-way broad spectrum selective herbicide features 2,4D, MCPA and Clopyralid as its active ingredients to ensure an

efficient response. Weed control is achieved at low application rates, (up to half the normal rates of many competitor products) ensuring less product is required for an effective result. Redeem is rain-fast after an hour and treated areas can be re-seeded after only six weeks.

QuickFire is a new 2-way mix of Mecoprop-P and Dicamba, and is designed to control many of the most common weeds, at a competitive cost. Unlike a

number of existing products, both Quickfire and Redeem can be used through knapsack equipment in addition to boom mounted sprayers.

Thirdly, Headland offers the now well established Cabadex formulation. Cabadex is proven to be highly effective combating some difficult weeds that many other formulations leave unchecked, including Slender Speedwell and Yellow Suckling Clover. The product can be used

on young, newly sown turf (from 2 leaf stage).

Last up is Blaster Pro, the ideal solution for diffi cult perennial weeds such as Brambles, Nettles, Docks and Thistles. It can be used on established amenity grassland such as golf course roughs, banks, roadside verges, cemeteries and industrial areas.

Headland Amenity Enquiry 86

How can I reassure clients or members of the public? Use social media or the local press to your advantage to showcase responsible spraying and its benefits for the local community, such as safer play areas, protection of their property from invasive weeds and maintaining an attractive environment in which to live and work.

Join the Amenity Assured Scheme to demonstrate your commitment to best practice and safe spraying.

Utilise the Amenity Forum’s Get Moving campaign which highlight how proper weed control impacts upon health and well-being, safety and the environment, featuring a range of public information materials which can be distributed to their customers by contractors and local authorities.

Contact SCH today for a copy of their free 80 page brochure – full of machinery developed for the landscape industry – & proudly made in Britain. 01473 328272 sales@schsupplies.co.uk www.schsupplies.co.uk

Economy Sprayers the answer to NSTS sprayer legislation?

All operators now face the prospect of getting their sprayers through the now compulsory NSTS test to meet the latest round of sprayer legislation.

Those on tight budgets to avoid expensive repair and upgrade bills are trending towards purchasing a good quality economy sprayer being sure of course that it meets UK HSE requirements which is not the same as a European CE certification.

Buying a new sprayer that meets these requirements avoids the club, as the law stands now, form requiring a test for the next five years.

Ground following booms As operators strive for more accuracy when applying feeds and chemical through their sprayer, maintaining a constant nozzle height above the turf is becoming evermore important. On undulating courses this is quite a challenge for sprayer operators unless the sprayer has a ground follow capability. Wheeled ground follow booms are accurate, cheaper and much more reliable then electronic versions, taking away much of the challenge from the operator. Sales of this boom have doubled in the last 4 months.

01361 883418

Shrub bed recommendation

Rigby Taylor is able to confirm that Chikara has the label addition for use in shrub beds and around amenity vegetation.

Chikara contains the active ingredient flazasulfuron and is well established as a key product for residual total weed control management. The addition of shrub bed use to the label will enable parks and other grounds maintenance organisations to combine efficient delivery of low active ingredient with effective and long lasting residual weed control around amenity vegetation.

“The Industry has been crying out for an effective product for use in shrub beds” Says Peter Corbett Chemical Manager of

Rigby Taylor. “We are delighted to now offer a highly cost effective solution to help manage weed control in such situations. Chikara will fill the void left by the regulatory loss of products such as Casoron G (dichlobenil), Ronstarl (oxadiazon) plus a number of others.”

Chikara, either on its own or in tank mixture with glyphosate formulations such as Mascot Hi-Aktiv or Trustee will deliver season-long weed control across a wide range of porous surfaces, including gravel car parks, around street furniture, along fence lines, kerb edges and much more. Chikara is available in 50 and 150 gram packs.

Mini system offers big solution

The Gambetti Mini demountable sprayer is strong but light thanks to its aluminium construction. Ideal for trucks, ATVs and other types of work trucks, the tank size is 200 litres and it is fitted

with an electric pump. Boom sizes range from 6m down to 2m, with the option to add shrouded covers to 3.5m boom.

StarGreen amenity sprayers launched

AllezGrow has been appointed to promote and sell the newly launched StarGreen amenity sprayers.

Designed and manufactured in the UK, by Vale Engineering, the new range offers high quality whilst keeping cost under control.

The StarGreen sprayer range features 3-point linkage applicators from 200L to 800L capacity as well as de-mounts and trailed both available as 450L and 750L capacity.

Three boon widths (6/8/10 meters), which feature three individually filtered sections, will cover most application whilst nozzles are standard ISO with the option of triple nozzle-holders.

The StarGreen sprayers are fitted as standard with stainless steel induction bowl with wash can, clean water tank and a PPE locker. Although manual controls with balanced returns are standard, electric controls are also available.

The thermal approach to weeds

Foamstream from Weedingtech offers a cost-effective, versatile, and environmentally safe way of controlling weeds and moss on all surfaces, in all weather.

Available globally on a commercial basis to the amenity, agriculture and water industries, it kills weeds using a precise application of hot water and foam.

Botanists have known for a long time that boiling water kills weeds. The problem with making thermal technology

available on a commercial basis has been finding a way to keep the heat on the plant long enough to kill it. Hot water alone doesn’t work well enough. That’s why we worked in conjunction with industry leading partners and world-class weed control experts to develop Foamstream; a biodegradable foam made from natural and renewable plant oils and sugars which can be precisely applied to weeds together with hot water.

Enquiry 93

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 91

AllezGrow Enquiry 94

Gambetti Enquiry 92

Weedingtech

Cleveland Crop Sprayers Enquiry 90

Getting the best from water-soluble fertilisers

Water-soluble fertilisers have become a key component of many nutritional regimes, due to their simplicity of application, cost-efficiency and rapid agronomic response.

However, whilst they can easily be overcome, there are issues sometimes with preparation that can create problems for the uninitiated.

Wendy Johnson, Technical Support Manager for Headland Amenity, says it’s worth noting some of the features that are common to all water-soluble products when using them for the first time.

Each water-soluble fertiliser has a maximum solubility potential (a maximum amount of product that will solubilise in a given amount of water – before no more will dissolve).

“When this maximum amount has been reached, the solution is said to be ‘saturated’ and further addition only results in un-dissolved crystals, destined to block nozzles and filters,” she said. “This is one of the most common issues encountered whilst preparing a water soluble fertiliser, particularly if a small vessel like a bucket is utilised to dissolve the product.

“For example, we know that at 10ºC water temperature, the maximum amount of potassium nitrate that can be physically dissolved is 200g per litre. If we

are using a 10L bucket of water, this means that we can dissolve 2,000g (2kg). At this point, the solution is ‘saturated’. If you were to add 5kg into the 10L bucket, 2kg would dissolve and 3kg will remain un-dissolved.

It is important not to exceed the manufacturer’s application directions as these will have been set within the maximum solubility potential. Temperature also has an effect on how much product will dissolve.

Soluble fertilisers remove energy from the water in the spray tank as they solubilise. The practical consequence of this is that the temperature of the spray tank solution will decrease as the product is dissolving into solution. The lower the temperature of the spray tank solution, the slower the rate of solubility and the lower the actual amount of material that can be solubilised as explained above.

Understanding a few simple rules will help to ensure a painfree experience when using these most versatile of turf fertiliser products.

Amenity Enquiry 98

Club reaps the rewards after switching to granular fertilisers

Warren Moss, Course Manager at Dudsbury Golf Club in Bournemouth, believes that his greens are reaping the rewards following a switch from liquid fertilizers to ICL’s SierraformGT and Greenmaster Pro-Lite granular fertilizers.

Dudsbury Golf Club is a 6,904 yard par 71 championship golf course and was designed by Donald Steel – the man who modernised the famous St Andrews course.

“I wasn’t happy with the way our previous liquid fertilizers were performing on the greens – they were just not looking healthy enough,” said Warren.

“A report revealed that the greens had poor root growth, so basically I felt that all the nutrients in the liquid were passing through the top 50mm and not getting used up by the rest of the plant. Therefore, I felt that I needed a product that would last longer and benefit the plant for an extended period of time.

“I spoke to Darren Hatcher (ICL Technical Area Sales Manager), and explained what I was trying to achieve and he suggested that switching to ICL granular fertilizers was something that I should consider. He was confi dent we would get the desired results and after using the first product I saw how good the results were

and continued with the iTurf programme. There’s been no looking back since.”

After Darren’s recommendation, Warren decided to change from his previous liquid fertilizers and turned to ICL’s SierraformGT and Greenmaster Pro-Lite granular fertilizers, with the

aim of giving the greens the initial spring kick-start that is needed but also providing that longevity throughout the playing season. ICL’s granular fertilizer technology means that Warren is now seeing a dramatic increase in terms of longevity.

ICL Enquiry 97

Rigby Taylor adds to turf fertiliser range

The Apex organic range from Rigby Taylor now includes high organic, low salt analyses rich in humic acid.

Apex organic offers enhanced plant resistance to disease and plant stress disease, improved root mass, stimulation of microbial activity and slow sustained growth.

The homogenous, 1-2mm micro compound granule formulations provide conventional and slow release of nutrients that offer fl exible, accurate and uniform application. Many of the

products contain Polyhalite, an organic source of Nitrogen, Calcium and Magnesium that helps to strengthen cell walls, making plant tissue less susceptible to damage.

The Microfine range has had six added low sulphur analyses to the range.

Sulphur is an important nutrient for plant health but has been shown that constant applications of products high in this nutrient can lower pH levels and exacerbate Black Layer formation, reduce soil

oxygen levels and encourage anaerobic bacteria which respire hydrogen sulphide that is toxic to plant roots.

Mini-granular formulations provide slow and conventional release forms of Nitrogen with number containing Methylene Urea that release N in sync with the plants requirements. Formulations also contain iron and magnesium, with two offering cold start benefits. Both ranges are available in 20 kg bags.

Rigby Taylor Enquiry 99

The Groundsman - Enhance half page v2 Print.pdf 1 13/01/2017 10:44

Headland

New high torque forestry cutter attachments

Bobcat has launched the new FRC150HT and FRC200HT high torque forestry cutter attachments for use with the company’s market-leading compact tracked, skid-steer and all-wheel steer loaders.

The new forestry cutters are compatible with the Bobcat T770H and T870H compact tracked loaders, S770H and S850H skid-steer loaders and the A770H all-wheel steer loader

Designed for continuous use in shredding and mulching bushes,

shrubs and small trees, the forestry cutters are ideal for fast removal of thick undergrowth.

Providing cutting widths of 1.5 and 2.0 m, respectively, the FRC150HT and FRC200HT forestry cutters are designed for continuous work on bushes and trees 100 to 120 mm in diameter, intermittent use for trees with a diameter from 180 to 220 mm and occasional use on trees 250 to 300 mm in diameter.

Groundsman praises SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid

The Javelin Aer-Aid 1500 from SISIS not only aerates with a vertical action, but also injects air into the root zone at a fast working rate, creating thousands of fissures.

The cam trigger mechanism ensures that the air is always expelled at the bottom of the tine penetration, enabling treatment to be targeted precisely and consistently.

Ten millimetre diameter ‘tipped’ tines are spaced at 75mm (3ins) with depth of penetration, infinitely variable, to a maximum of 127mm (5ins). These air injection tines are specially designed to use the maximum air available from the compressor and produces clean, fresh, air at a constant rate of 88 litres per minute, while surface disturbance is kept to a minimum.

Alternative tines for other operations, such as hollow coring before top dressing, are available to make this SISIS a truly versatile aerator.

SISIS

Trilo in action courtesy of Ernest Doe

Hot on the heels of Ernest Doe being selected as a main distributor for Trilo products in the UK, they intend to hold a field demo day.

A ‘free to attend’ event is scheduled for Wednesday April 5 2017 at the East of England Showground in Peterborough to cover a wide range of Trilo machinery in action.

Commencing at 9:30am, the day will include discussions and working demonstrations of a number of Trilo products

including units from their scarifier range, blowers, truck loaders and the S3 and S8 vacuum sweepers.

It’ll also provide the first opportunity to see the 2nd generation Trilo S4, launched at BTME, in the UK for the very first time.

Those interested in attending should register an interest with Robin Sugg on 07557 200498 or via email to robinsugg@ernestdoe.com.

Enquiry 103

New Harrier 41 Pro rear roller mower from Hayter

Hayter has introduced the Harrier 41 Pro to their range.

Designed for landscape professionals, this mower is an all-new addition to the Harrier rear-roller mower line-up that’s been integral to the Hayter portfolio for more than 30 years. The Harrier 41 Pro is specifically designed to meet the needs of landscape contractors and gardeners wanting to achieve a high- quality, striped turf finish in small to medium gardens and grassed areas.

Class-leading collection is paramount to the Harrier 41 Pro’s design. The new shape cast aluminum deck, designed using aerospace airflow technology, provides maximum airflow for optimum collection performance.

A new grass bag design with integrated cover drafts dust and debris away from the operator and aids collection of up to 60 litres of grass cuttings so you can mow for longer. With this model, Hayter also introduces new

Vari-Pitch technology, which automatically adjusts the deck

to increase airflow when set to cut longer grass, improving collection when conditions are most challenging.

The new Harrier 41 Pro features a Honda GCV160 engine and a split rear-roller for easy turning with no turf markings. Specifically designed to withstand the rigors of commercial mowing, other pro-friendly features include heavy-duty wheels and front and rear lifting handles to aid transport.

Added to this is the incorporation of a Trim Side, enabling the operator to cut right to the edge, making it ideal for cutting right up to borders, retaining walls and raised flower beds – reducing the need to strim after mowing.

Hayter

Enquiry 104

Bobcat Enquiry 102

Derby County head groundsman Nathan Scarff has praised the SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid 1500 tractor mounted aerator for all-year-round use to keep the playing surface at the iPro Stadium in peak condition.

Trilo Enquiry 105

Etesia launches remote control brushcutter

The Etesia Attila mower has become synonymous with cutting high, dense vegetation in difficult terrain.

Now, Etesia UK is pleased to announce it is available as a fully automatic robotic mower with the use of an iPad.

The Etesia SKD ExxDrive has been developed with partners FeBroLift GmbH and is a completely new type of external operating concept that allows the user to operate the device reliably and precisely by means of a gesture-controlled operation via an app on an iPad - without having to sit on the mower itself.

All functions, which the device contains serially, can also be accessed via the tablet, including the permanent use of the ‘deadman button’ during use which ensures safety at all times.

If an emergency does occur; the device can be switched off via a secure emergency stop function.

The biggest advantage of the Etesia SKD ExxDrive is that it can be fitted with a dual wheel kit and be used on steep slopes where mowing work can be carried out with a low risk to the operator, who can stay at a safe distance and avoid risks of being injured, while still

ensuring a high productivity in difficult terrain.

The Etesia SKD ExxDrive retains all of the features of a standard SKD mower including an 85cm cutting width and cutting decks with steel reinforcements specifically designed to withstand different mowing conditions for a long period.

Etesia

Polaris partners the Scottish Gamekeepers Association

The Scottish Gamekeepers Association (SGA) has secured an exclusive partnership with all terrain vehicle specialists, Polaris, as the organisation celebrates 20 years of representing gamekeepers.

The arrangement will see SGA members and supporters given the chance to win a Sportsman 570 in the organisation’s annual raffle; the Polaris Sportsman being the best selling ATV in the world.

Officials are delighted to announce the new partnership which will see ticket funds going directly back to the SGA to help its members at a key time

for workers in the game sector.

Tickets for the Sportsman 570 were on sale for the first time at the SGA’s 20th anniversary AGM at McDiarmid Park, Perth.

The Sportsman 570 is the latest addition to the Polaris Sportsman range and can cover the harshest

terrain due to its powerful 44hp engine, smooth suspension and All-Wheel Drive on demand. It has a durable steel frame, lots of storage space and 557kg of payload capacity.

Enquiry 108

Spearhead Machinery expands UK sales team

Spearhead Machinery Ltd has recently announced the expansion of its UK sales team.

Effectively splitting the country from three to four sales territories, Spearhead have established a new region across the central belt of England, from North Lincolnshire across to Shropshire, bolstering support to their dealer network and to the company’s ambitious sales growth plans. Appointed to the role of Area ManagerCentral Region is new employee Jack Norton.

Jack joins Spearhead having gained 8 years of experience at Spearhead dealer Irelands Farm Machinery, and brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience on the Spearhead product range.

Royal Norwich chooses Toro as it prepares to relocate

Royal Norwich Golf Club has invested in Toro as it embarks on one of the most exciting times in its 123-year history.

With all the legal and planning formalities nearly complete, it is expected that Royal Norwich will relocate to the nearby location of Weston Park Golf Club where it is the intention to build a brand new premier 27-hole facility.

Phil Grice, general manager at Royal Norwich, says the decision on which machines to choose was a collective one by “those at the coal-face”, head greenkeeper Mark Dingle and his greenkeeping team of five.

“We have opted for two Greensmaster TriFlex 3420 greens machines and a Reelmaster 5510-D fairway mower, which will ensure the quality of our greens, tees and surrounds, plus a Workman GTX utility vehicle,” he explained.

“The GTX is the newest utility vehicle on the market and really versatile and, considering the range of work we have coming up, that’s essential.”

The history and heritage of the two clubs will combine with an ultra

modern 27-hole course, a 200seat function facility and stunning atrium bar, and to accommodate the unique course, Phil says he will need to grow the fleet twice more in the next couple of years.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 110

Polaris

Spearhead Machinery UK Enquiry 111

Heligan invests in its future

The Lost Gardens of Heligan estate has re-established a working partnership with John Deere and local professional turf equipment dealer Masons Kings after more than 20 years.

The 200-plus acre estate at Pentewan near St Austell has invested in a new fleet of 10 machines plus ancillary equipment valued at over £200,000, in a John Deere Financial five-year lease hire deal including PowerGard protection.

Its first John Deere machine, an 855 compact tractor, was provided in 1995 by the previous dealer, Cornwall Farmers, to help in the restoration of The Lost Gardens after their rediscovery in 1990.

This year The Lost Gardens of Heligan celebrates the 25th anniversary of its official

opening. Director of gardens, estate & maintenance Iain Davies acknowledged the historic link with John Deere at a special training day organised by Masons Kings group turf sales manager Andy Bowey.

Over 40 services, events, maintenance, gardens and landscapes staff were assessed and marked on training and operating procedures for each new machine, to qualify for BAGMA certification.

The product training stations covered John Deere’s latest diesel and electric Gator utility vehicles, compact tractors and a commercial lawn tractor. A new Tango robotic lawnmower will also be installed in the gardens this spring.

John Deere Enquiry 114

Charge and go with new ECHO Lithium Ion

ECHO has introduced a new range of 50V Lithium Ion battery products, including a Hedgetrimmer, a Trimmer and Power Blower that take on their petrol counterparts with a wealth of added benefits.

The DHC-200 Hedgetrimmer and DSRM-300 Trimmer each come with a 2Ah battery as standard and the option of a 4Ah battery for a longer run time. The DPB600 Power Blower has a 4Ah as standard. Both types of battery fit other ECHO 50V tools, so there’s no need to buy different types of battery or chargers.

They are low noise and low emission so they are ideal for use around sensitive areas such as schools and nursing homes, amenity and visitor centres, parks and gardens.

Lightweight and well balanced, each tool is easy to control and manoeuvre and can be used for long periods with little user fatigue. Maintenance is reduced because there are fewer moving parts.

Emissions are managed by energy efficient motor controls for speed, power delivery and battery temperature, with the added benefits of improved cutting and blowing performance and longer battery life.

Using a rapid charger, quick charging also reduces downtime so more jobs can be completed in a day; and there is of course that option of using 4Ah batteries for longer run time.

ECHO Enquiry 115

All Doe for GKB

Diggers of quality holes

Bonthrone Building & Groundworks Contractors of Bankfoot near Perth has purchased its first Volvo compact excavator following a successful demonstration and competitive evaluation.

similar sized competitive model following a successful demonstration and evaluation of the machine.

course, especially the greens, and all types of sports pitches, the GKB Sandfiller provides an allin-one combination of aeration and sand filling.

Whilst the company covers the whole country, over 600 golf clubs in their immediate territory put aerators and sandfillers high on their list of priorities for equipment.

A visit to the new, state-of-theart GKB factory in Holland was the ideal opportunity to assess the performance of the latest GKB Sandfiller, and the demonstration quickly confirmed this was the right choice for the fleet.

Designed to offer a fast solution to tackling areas on the golf

Use of the GKB Sandfiller for intensive aeration of the grass also leads to faster drainage of surface water and quicker recovery.

The combination of aerating and filling the topsoil with sand creates the right conditions for root growth without the need for complete renovation. Material that is removed by verticutting is collected in a tipping container, so the whole operation is done quickly and cleanly in one pass.

GKB Machines Enquiry

The new 2.5 tonne EC27C has been supplied by Volvo’s utility dealer for the north of Scotland CSM Sales Ltd.

The new EC27C is the latest machine to join Bonthrone Building and Groundworks Contractors, replacing a

Joining a mixed fleet of equipment which includes a twelve tonne excavator, three and six tonne site dumpers and a backhoe loader, the EC27C is powered by a Volvo 1.6 litre low emission Stage III engine coupled to a load sensing hydraulic system for optimum performance and fuel saving.

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Ernest Doe are expanding their successful hire fleet to introduce a whole range of specialist turf machinery for groundsmen and greenkeepers.

Nine reasons why choosing the right tine is so important

Of all the management practices used to maintain healthy turf, it can be strongly argued that professional aeration has become the most valuable.

Here Reesink Turfcare, exclusive UK distributor of Toro Parts, lists the top nine reasons reasons why choosing the right tine is so important for effective aeration.

Relieving surface or deep compaction, improving drainage, controlling thatch, and managing high temperature stress by increasing gas exchange, all require different skilled approaches or methods of aeration.

From coring, using hollow tines, solid tine aeration, slicing or spiking, water injection cultivation, deep tine aeration, and ‘linear’ aeration, there are certain considerations that can make the process easier and more efficient. Here we list the top nine we think will save you time and money and it all comes down to the parts you choose:

1. Tine quality

It’s now a lot more than just forking holes into the ground. Successful aeration is as much down to the quality and condition of the tines as it is the machine.

In order to maintain the turf’s good health, it’s vital to ensure the very best equipment and parts are to hand. Toro tines are made through combining a strong alloy with a unique heat treatment process and a longlasting tungsten carbide blend tip, resulting in a finished product that provides maximum strength and resistance to wear.

2. Hole quality

Clean-cut holes are important for a speedy recovery and the best way to ensure the speediest of recoveries is with tines that boast sharp edges and smooth sides.

3. Inferior or spurious tines

Using inferior or spurious tines in a bid to cut costs can, in fact, cause operators to waste both time and money in the long run. Replacing broken or bent tines frequently, unclogging cores while on the job and collecting awkward core debris are all common side effects of will-fit parts and having to repair damage post-aeration is not only time consuming but leads to slower recovery and return to play. Put simply, “More man-hours and money are wasted cleaning up after inferior tines and buying and applying replacements, it’s just not worth it!” says Michael.

4. A perfect fit Engineered and designed to fit the entire Toro ProCore range and get the best results from an aeration programme, choosing Toro tines ensures the perfect fit. Easily snapping into place or bolting on, when using Toro tines everything is aligned perfectly so nothing operational suffers when in use. Choosing will-fit tines can lead to poorer quality holes or wear to the machinery that is avoidable. As we know, fiddly ill-fitting parts waste time and effort, too.

5. Choice

Toro has a tine to suit every application. In fact there are

over 150 tines to choose from meaning that no matter the turf application, soil situation or season, there’s something for everyone, guaranteed. Understanding the different tine options is important, you may be missing a trick to further improve the health of your turf if you’re just using, say, standard solid tines. Ask your Toro dealer or service centre about tines and what choices might be better suited to your specific applications.

6. Increased productivity Regular aeration helps to keep the grass healthy, recovering from root compaction issues quicker, and with genuine Toro tines you can be assured of a tine that is designed to last three to four times longer than standard tines. This increase in longevity, not only means long-term dependable aeration with better soil, drainage and nutrient performance, says Michael, but “makes better use of your machinery maintenance budget too.”

7. Improved performance

Timing is vital when it comes to aeration – you’ll likely know when that is for your surfaces – and it is important not to be let down in the middle of the aeration programme. The tough design of Toro tines, including durable brazed tip joints that ensure a strong bond with in-built resistance to separation and breakage, importantly help maintain

consistent aeration depths and reduces costly change-out and associated downtime.

8. Planning

Aeration schedules vary depending on soil type, budgets, resource, climate and usage and can be a balancing act for greenkeepers and groundsmen to ensure the health of the soil without disrupting play. Rest assured though, even if not stocking up, buying urgently required genuine Toro tines guarantees your timings and schedules need not be disturbed should there be a sudden need to make a replacement…

9. Service

When you need new tines, you get second-to-none parts back up with Reesink Turfcare. Reesink currently holds 15,000 Toro items available for delivery at 24 hours’ notice pretty much anywhere in the UK and 12,000 fast-moving lines are housed at the European distribution centre in Belgium with 48-hour availability. If all else fails, a 72-hour trans-Atlantic airfreight service comes into action calling on parts held at Toro’s Minneapolis manufacturing base. This is all at no extra cost to the customer and ensures downtime is kept to a minimum.

To stock up on tines or for more aeration advice, customers can get in touch with their local genuine Toro parts dealer or service centre.

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 122

Mercedes-Benz Vans launches X-Class reservation service

Due to phenomenal early demand for the X-Class, which hasn’t even been unveiled yet, Mercedes-Benz Vans has launched a reservation service to enable potential UK customers to leave a refundable reservation fee to ensure they are the amongst the first to order the exciting new pickup.

Interested customers can visit https://www.reservexclass. mbvans.co.uk/ to place their refundable reservation fee of £1,000 to ensure that they will be given the first opportunity to order their X-Class (arriving in the UK in 2018).

Steve Bridge, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, said: “Many customers we have spoken to have a strong desire to be amongst the first to own the new X-Class, which is incredible considering that it hasn’t been unveiled yet.”

Enquiry 120

Hyundai launch new wheeled loader

Hyundai recently introduced the brand new HL975 at last week’s SaMoTer exhibition in Verona Italy.

The robust HL975 has been engineered to Hyundai’s high standards and designed following thorough research amongst operators world-wide asking what they expected of the next generation of wheel loaders. The result is a tough new machine with outstanding power and performance.

The new HL975 has an operating weight of 26,500kg (58,420 Ib)

and at the heart of the new machine is the very latest Stage IV Cummins QSG12 engine with a maximum gross power of 250kW at 2100rpm (net power 247kW).

Higher efficiency air handling and advanced combustion enable the QSG12 to return to the simplicity of a wastegate turbocharger without the need for a cooled EGR. Combined with a DPF, Stage IV emission levels are reached.

Hyundai Enquiry 121

Michael Hampton, turfcare parts manager at Reesink Turfcare, says: “Toro tines are designed to produce precise consistent holes for fast turf recovery, a smooth finish and quick return to play.”

Mercedes-Benz

BunkerMaster saves the day

The bunker is all dressed and the preparation completed just before the competition and then down comes the rain. One of the most useful tools for the golf

course and greenkeepers is the BunkerMaster.

Light in weight, and easy to carry around in a buggy or ATV, it’s

the ideal solution for dressing a bunker in about a quarter of the time it takes with conventional tools. Those greenkeepers who use one swear by it.

Even if bunker preparation is last minute it pays to have a BunkerMaster handy for sand trap restoration, working tight edges and banks.

It will also deal with thick moss, thatch, overgrown grass and ingrained sand. The BunkerMaster aerates the top 36mm/1½” of sand but never aggressively digs in and it’s designed to work away from the operator for maximum control.

So you have a fast route after the rains to getting the bunker back into shape and ready for play. You have a choice of powerful commercial grade engines in the 4-stroke Honda 25cc or Subaru 35cc, and a powertrain that’s virtually indestructible.

The speed and efficiency of the BunkerMaster translates into less effort required by staff and an improvement in productivity. Set that alongside the low initial outlay for the machine and it soon becomes clear there is a real financial benefit.

While bunkers cover approximately only one or two percent of the course their upkeep can take as much as twenty-five percent of the greenkeeper’s resources.

There is no doubt the BunkerMaster will give you a fast return on your investment and make considerable savings in the long-term. It also comes with a five-year warranty in commercial use, which is an added benefit for additional peace of mind.

Schiller Groundscare Enquiry 126

Sherwood Forest signs five-year agreement with Toro

Sherwood Forest Golf Club in Nottinghamshire has always chosen not to be tied to any kind of agreement or exclusive machinery deal – until now.

Now, the club, who has been a loyal Toro customer for many years, has decided to sign a five-year preferred supplier agreement with Toro and its UK distributor Reesink Turfcare.

The decision to make this commitment comes says course manager, Kim Kirkham, after almost 40 years of using Toro and never having been let down.

“I’ve chosen Toro throughout my career, which is coming up to 40 years and I have never been let down by them. And while I’ve never wanted to be tied to a particular brand, with this latest order it felt like the right time. I’ve always bought Toro so it made sense to commit to them!”

Investing most recently in two Greensmaster TriFlex 3400 ride-on mowers and one of the first customers in the UK to opt for the new Toro Workman GTX when replacing its existing electric Workmans. Both showcase the very latest in technology and prompt Kim to comment on how far things have come since the first Toro machine he used – the GM3.

“By buying Toro, you are buying the best and that is evident in how long these machines last,” he says. “Nothing has changed on that front since I ordered my first Toro machine nearly 40 years ago. I know that when we order new machines such as the TriFlex for the greens, we can move the older Toros into a new role. The Toro Greensmaster 3250-D mowers for example, which were previously cutting the greens, are now on the tees, which don’t need such a fine finish, and they’re

doing a great job and will do for a good few years.”

It requires foresight and planning, but a plan like this ensures Kim and his greenkeeping team of six always have the best for the course and consider their machines with the long-term in mind.

Economy is the reason for bringing in the Workman utility vehicles. “We are a 200 acre course, so the new GTX, which is a light utility suited to a broad and diverse range of jobs, is ideal.”

Being surrounded as it is by some of Europe’s finest trees and heathland thanks to its close proximity to the legendary Sherwood Forest, the golf club is now a designated site of specific scientific interest due to it containing the largest area of low-lying heathland in the Midlands. It has, says Kim, been an intentional decision to focus on the heathland aspect of the course rather than opting to be a parkland course, which would have been possible, and potentially an easier decision, considering the club’s location. Instead Kim and the team have focussed on bringing in plenty of heather and are delighted that it is making a difference. And with plans in place for a new golf academy and driving range just opposite the course, it’s from one challenge to the next!

Not that it’s a bother says Kim with a shed of Toro and the support of dealer Chris Sellars Groundcare, with whom Kim and the club have a long-standing relationship: “I’ve always said Toro machines are the Rolls Royce of the industry, you can tell it just by looking at them, let alone using them, and they always prove their worth.”

Reesink Turfcare Enquiry 127

Safe remote-controlled maintenance of parks, amenities, leisure facilites and estates

Spider – often termed the ‘safest mower on the market’ – is now being distributed in the UK and Ireland exclusively by T H WHITE Machinery Imports.

Spider remote-controlled slope mowers are perfect for a wide range of applications involving steep, uneven or sometimes dangerous terrain.

The Spider ILD 01 and ILD 02 models both feature patented 360-degree unlimited steering, forward and reverse 4wd, an integral mulching kit, low fuel consumption and fantastic manoeuvrability.

There is also a Spider Mini, ideal for smaller estates and large gardens where there is a need for a safe mower for general use as well as on slopes.

Spider handles slopes of up to 40 degrees and this extends to 50 degrees when using a winch. This mower requires very little maintenance and comes with a full two year warranty. So whether you mowing challenge

is leisure facilities, highways, public spaces, or large gardens or estates, book a demonstration today to see what this impressive piece of equipment can do.

T H White Enquiry 129

Euro 6 C201 compact ticks all the environmental boxes

Johnston Sweepers believes its latest Euro 6 C201 Compact is the best compact it has brought to market yet, ticking all the environmental boxes with lowest ever exhaust emissions, highest capture of harmful dust particles and lowest noise levels – ideal for landscape sweeping applications, as well as city centre precincts.

Introduced last year to accommodate the latest VM Euro 6 engine, it’s the smallest in its class too, with only a mere 150mm added to accommodate the new engine, making it shorter than all other Euro 6 Compacts on the market and retaining the Johnston Compact’s renowned manoeuvrability.

The slender proportions of Johnston’s C201 – ideal for park pathways and close-up sweeping - have always given it exceptional manoeuvrable, but Johnston’s patented four wheel

steer system has taken this to an entirely new level.

Dust capture is now a major health condsideration for sweeper operators and controlling it has been the challenge for many local authorities.

In the drive to increase dust capture, the Euro C201 is fitted with Johnston’s special pumped water recirculation

system which retains the very smallest dust particles within the body of the machine, and even re-uses the water, exceeding EUnited standards.

More good environmental news is that the C201 has now been proved to be one of the quietest sweepers on the market.

Johnston Sweepers Enquiry 130

Muthing adds to the widest range of flail mowers

Muthing has added more options to their already extensive range.

Simon Richard, UK agent for the Muthing brand, says: “Muthing now offer the widest range of flail mowers for ground care and orchard and vineyard use starting at 80cm working width for 10hp ranging up to 7,20mtr combinations up to 300 hp.

“The flail mower range includes front, rear, front-rear mounted, semi-mounted and side folding models. Besides the standard drive via pto, a hydraulic drive option is also available. Different types of blades such as hammer, shackle flail and Y-knife can be selected to meet a specific requirement.”

Simon Richard Enquiry 131

Cub Cadet’s new range receives sought after accolade

Despite only being on the market for a matter of weeks, new models from Cub Cadet have already received recognition from a leading gardening organisation.

BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine has recognised the XT2 PS107 and the CC114HA, with the latter receiving the “Best Buy” badge in a recent ride-on

mowers test and was praised for its powerful twin-cylinder engine and cruise control facility.

Both were recognised for having a very tight turning circle, superior handling and an excellent range of cutting heights.

The CC114HA was described as “neat, very manoeuvrable and easy to use with well-located

controls, impressive performance for size”.

First excavator and first Volvo for Grenco

Grenco Ltd, the ‘Constructors of Exclusive Homes’ based at Bideford, North Devon, has purchased its very first excavator in the shape of a nine tonne reduced swing radius Volvo ECR88D for its bespoke building projects.

The machine has been supplied by Volvo’s utility dealer for the south west of England - Plant & Engineering Services.

The ECR88D was chosen following a demonstration that was arranged with the Volvo dealer earlier in the year.

The Volvo ECR88D is highly regarded in the marketplace for its economical use of fuel - thanks to the combination of its Stage IV 2.6 litre engine developing 56 nett horsepower and closed centre load sensing hydraulic system, for fast cycle times and smooth control.

The machine offers a generous horizontal reach of 7.3 metres and a lift capacity of 960kg at full reach across the carriage. Operator comfort and excellent access to all the service points have added to the overall appreciation of the machine.

The ECR88 Plus has a comfortable, spacious cab with a wide uncluttered floor.

The instrument panel provides operators with at-a-glance monitoring of all key functions and operator fatigue is reduced through easy-grip, high response joystick control levers. The rubber-mounted cab reduces whole-body vibration and external noise, minimizing the rigours of the jobsite, whilst airconditioning with well positioned vents is a standard feature.

Volvo Enquiry 132

Cub Cadet Enquiry

133

Brush is not all it cuts

Productivity pays

Ride-on mowers represent one of the most significant machinery investments for local authorities and contractors, so productivity remains a key purchasing influence. With restricted areas to cut and the need for economical transport, bigger is not always better, but manufacturers are striving to increase effi ciency or extend the roles that a single power unit can perform.

Italian manufacturer Gianni Ferrari has launched two new machines to top the Turbo and Turbo Z ranges.

Zero turn Turbo Z 440 has seen significant developments to the

traction unit while the new DualCut mulching and rear discharge deck has been introduced.

This heavy duty deck has a cutting width of 155cm and offers quick conversion from mulching to rear discharge. It also lifts hydraulically into the vertical position for servicing.

In addition to the Dual-Cut deck, the machine can also be used with various attachments such as the fl ail mower, snow blade or other non-collecting decks from the Turbo 4 range. Styling updates include a new light kit.

The Turbo Z 440 is now powered by a Kubota V1505-T fourcylinder diesel engine, with the hydrostatic transmission using a Danfoss pump and motors, with reduction gear boxes in an oil bath. These improvements are joined by a cardan shaft PTO, foldable ROPS and two-wheel oscillating rear axle.

Also new is the Turbo 4 Fifty, which comes equipped with a 1400 litre capacity collector, with 230cm dump height. A new collecting turbine is designed to offer increased air flow, longer life and easier maintenance, with the option to disengage the collecting turbine when using non-collecting attachments.

Permanent four-wheel drive gives increased capacity on slopes and the new 180 RCA collecting deck has a 170cm cutting width and opposite rotation; the Dual-Cut deck is also available for this machine.

New cutting concept

Reesink Turfcare has introduced an interchangeable cylinder attachment for the LT-F3000 mower which gives the frontfacing triple mower the capability to cut two ways.

The LT-F3000 was designed to offer a new cutting concept to triple mowing, giving users a chance to cut longer, wetter and coarser grass in one sweep.

With the new attachment, a machine that was originally intended as a flail mower can now cut as a cylinder mower with more power than its sister model, the LT3000.

Reesink says the attachment will appeal to councils and landscape contractors looking for productivity and versatility. The company’s National Sales Manager Jeff Anguige explains:

“Toro understands that the groundcare sector has many different areas and challenging environments to cut, from

the widest open spaces to the narrowest verges, and roadsides with longer grass to recreational fields.

Having a mower that can tackle the longer grass and then leave a premium fi nish on playing fi elds and sports grounds is a really cost-effective solution.”

The Ventrac 4500, distributed in the UK and Ireland by Price Turfcare, is designed as more of a ‘multi-tool’ than just a ride-on mower, says the company. Its design combines all-wheel drive, an articulating frame and 25hp Kubota diesel engine for the stability and control to get a wide range of jobs done.

Available with five different mowing decks for multiple applications and Ventrac’s coupling system, the experienced operator can switch between mowing options in less than one minute.

HM decks are available as 1.83m side discharge with optional mulching kit available or 1.52m rear discharge. The tractor’s integrated adjustable weight transfer system can transfer a percentage of the mower weight back to the tractor for increased traction and stability on slopes.

More than 30 different attachments are available, from trencher ideal for irrigation work to snow clearance equipment and much more.

Better by design John Deere introduced the latest version of the X950R rear-discharge diesel lawn

tractor at SALTEX, featuring a new, automotive-style digital dashboard ensuring that important machine notifications are clearly displayed.

Increased productivity is also offered by the ‘best cut zone’ feature, which enables the operator to always run the machine at its optimum speed, while still maintaining a high quality cut.

In addition, a newly designed bagger empty assist system uses an ultrasound sensor in the bag and a digital display on the dashboard to indicate the filling level.

Increased versatility with different purpose-designed decks or other attachments and new technology to boost performance and economy are some of the latest trends in the ride-on mower market, Jane Carley reports.

Ventrac

JohnDeere

Reesink Turfcare

Gianni

Ferrari

This tells the operator how much material has already been collected in the bagger, and helps to determine the best possible moment for it to be emptied.

With this system, blocking of the grass chute is reduced and machine re-adjustments for different grass conditions are not required.

Kioti UK Ltd, launched at the end of 2016 as a dedicated UK sales company for the Korean manufacturer’s tractors and machinery, also offers a selection of mowers.

The WD1260 ride-on is based on the company’s CS2610 sub-

compact tractor, and is designed for commercial use.

It is also designed to be very simple to service and operate according to Kioti UK General Manager Patrick Desmond. “In work maintenance can be carried out ‘in situ’ rather than having to transport the machine back to a workshop losing valuable cutting time.”

The deck is driven via a reinforced Kevlar belt direct from the engine which gives the blades an operating speed of 3000rpm.

He adds: “Cut grass has less distance to travel from the deck to the collector, so you get a

cleaner cut and much less risk of blocking in the wide and deep passage. It is also very effective on leaf collection and cutting longer grass.”

Both standard and high tip (1.91m) versions are available with a 1.2m cutting deck; the WD can also be adapted to cut and drop or to mulch.

In addition to these features, the WD is equipped with front pto and hydraulics as standard, allowing front mounted implements such as a brush or snow plough to be easily fitted.

Dedicated format STM Co Ltd in Warwickshire represents SCAG machinery in the UK and Europe, and was awarded International Distributor of the Year by SCAG in 2016.

From the start, the engineers at SCAG favoured a dedicated ride-on format. Early machines were three-wheel riders with the operator positioned behind the cutting head in an articulated system; this remained in the range for many years.

Look – no driver

button’ during use which

all

If

A

different mowing conditions for a long period.

AS Motor has developed a remote control version of its popular AS 940 and AS 940 XL ride on brushcutter for the most demanding conditions.

Equipped with a 27hp engine, four-wheel drive, limited-slip differential and cross blade, the AS 940 tackles dense, high grass and undergrowth on difficult terrain.

Where mowing is unpleasant or unsafe for the operator, including steep terrain, loose substrate, mowing under trees and bushes, along hedges and even areas around wasp nests, the AS 940 Remote Control provides the option to convert to remote control when required.

Using a professional remote control unit with 300m range, the AS 490 offers adjustment of the cutting height, engine on/ off function, mower deck on-off switch and steering via remote control, plus an emergency stop facility.

The maximum incline that can be accommodated is 39deg, compared with 23deg for ride-on operation.

Etesia UK has introduced a fully automatic robotic version of the Attila rough terrain mower controlled via an iPad.

The Etesia SKD ExxDrive has been developed with partners FeBroLift GmbH and is a new type of external operating concept that allows the user to operate the device reliably and precisely by means of a gesture-controlled operation via an app on an iPad.

All functions can be accessed via the tablet, including the activation of the ‘deadman

ensures safety at

times.

an emergency does occur, the device can be switched off via a secure emergency stop function.

dual wheel kit can be fitted for use on steep slopes where mowing work can be carried out with a low risk to the operator, who can stay at a safe distance.

The Etesia SKD ExxDrive retains all of the features of a standard SKD mower including an 85cm cutting width and cutting decks with steel reinforcements specifically designed to withstand

Kioti UK Ltd

STM Co Ltd

AS Motor

Etesia

In 1990 the company introduced the STZ, its first zero-turn ride-on mower, with the operator sitting in the centre of the unit, almost directly above the cutting deck for maximum compactness and manoeuvrability when coupled with the twin-drive zero-turn drive system.

The range now consists of five variants; there are choices ranging from high-end domestic, high-speed, or high productivity. Cutting widths are from 90cm to 1.81m and there are grass collection and mulching accessories. The Turf Tiger, the top of the range machine, at up to 35hp petrol or 25hp diesel, has just gone through a redesign.

SCAG believes in the compact, low centre of gravity machine principle for its benefits of manoeuvrability and visibility, and have extended this to demonstrate the fusion of pedestrian and ride-on in the V-Ride product, a unit that can be used as a walk-behind or instantly converted to a stand-on.

The latest range of zero turn mowers from the Ariens Company is the IKON-X, built with a fully fabricated, heavyduty tubular steel frame.

The IKON-X is driven and steered by the rear wheels via an independent transmission and uses levers for braking and steering; the deck is belt driven. An adjustable high-back,

adjustable seat includes arm rests and there’s a vibration reducing floor mat on the spacious operator platform.

Powered by a Kawasaki 726cc engine, top speed is 12kph. Available in two models, the IKON-X 42 with a 107cm cut width and the 132cm cut IKON-X 52, the commercial quality cutter deck is fabricated from 10-gauge steel, and the 13 cutting heights from 3.8-11.4cm are adjusted by a dial on the control panel.

Next generation Ransomes Jacobsen launched the first in a new series of wide area mowers back in September 2014. The initial two mowers in the series, the Ransomes MP493 and MP653, are wide area batwing rotary mowers, powered by 49hp and 65hp Kubota diesel engines and featuring three new rotary decks – one out-front and two wing decks.

The more powerful Ransomes MP653 has the latest Euro Stage IIIB turbo-charged engine which results in cleaner running and the ability to use advanced electronics for more precise control; it also has enough residual power to support a fully air-conditioned cab.

Wing decks are available in three sizes - cutting width options of 3.0, 3.3 and 3.5m with height of cut ranging from 25–120mm. These new mowers have a transport width of1.65m with the

wing decks folded; the front deck has 160mm of ground clearance for kerb climbing and can be lifted to a service position giving access for blade maintenance.

A further two machines have been added. These five-reel wide area cylinder mowers, the Ransomes MP495 and MP655, have 70% parts commonality with their rotary counterparts, are powered by the same Kubota

diesel engine options and feature the Ransomes Magna or Sport cutting heads.

The rear outer cutting cylinders fold up and rearwards for transport improving visibility, stability and ride quality. The front units also lift and fold providing a transport width of 1.89m.

By using high strength lightweight steel, the weight of the Ransomes MP495 has been reduced by over 250kg when compared to the Ransomes Commander that it replaces.

All machines in the MP series feature an ISO-mounted operator platform, which reduces noise and vibration levels, and are available with a custom-designed cab for additional comfort.

The mowers feature the SureTrac traction control system, which automatically transfers power from a slipping front wheel to the

opposite rear wheel, for enhanced control when hill climbing or working on side slopes. They also feature four-wheel drive in reverse, which improves traction when reversing uphill.

Funding for any new machine has to be looked at carefully, but not all benefits can be attributed to any one factor, suggests Stuart Rose of Overton, importer of the Mean Green range.

“This is very much the case with the Mean Green range of electric mowers. Comprising a walk behind 83cm cut machine, a stand on 1.2m cut mower and a 1.3m or 1.5m zero turn, complete with battery packs to give up to eight hours run time, they are never going to be the cheapest option at point of sale.”

“Cost the mower over five years. If you were to buy a petrol powered machine and consider the fuel it is likely to use over that period then the bottom

line would look very different. If a petrol mower uses £10 of fuel a day, over fi ve days for 32 weeks of the year, that is £1600, which is £8000 over five years, plus servicing costs and breakdowns.”

“There is obviously no engine on a battery powered mower, but also no hydraulics, no belts etc. This brings cost of ownership down to a very respectable level indeed.”

Mr Rose adds other considerations such as Hand/Arm and Whole Body Vibration, both of which are very low on Mean Green mowers, noise issues which again are very low and also the increasingly important factor of carcinogenic fumes which are especially associated with diesel engines.

“When all of these factors are looked at as a package, the Mean Green mowers look very attractive indeed for high frequency fine cut mowing,” he says.

• One machine for all your landscaping needs

• Extremely versatile with 200 attachments

Strong and compact, with minimal turf impact Easy to drive with great 360° visibility

• Economical with low operating and maintenance costs

RansomesJacobsen

Ariens

Case studies

Covering the ground

The Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk has purchased five Ransomes Parkway Meteor flail mowers to maintain King’s Lynn, Downham Market, Hunstanton and surrounding coastal areas.

The council has implemented a new grass cutting regime, which now sees the borough’s green spaces being cut six to 12 times per season. With a total of 650 acres to maintain, the council chose to purchase the Ransomes Parkway Meteor flail mowers to increase productivity whilst

maintaining a high-quality finish. Chris Durham, operations manager for the Borough of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, commented on the decision: “One Meteor machine will maintain an area of 82 acres. The council is trying to be more efficient and economical, which has been achieved by decreasing the number of machines, but increasing their productivity.

“We now spend less time cutting grass, and the savings we make can be invested into other projects to benefit the community.”

Kubota is OutThere

OutThere, one of the leading grounds maintenance and landscaping businesses in Northern Ireland, has strengthened its fleet of Kubota machinery following a successful 2016 and a strong start to the new year.

This latest order of Kubota’s groundcare equipment, supplied by local dealer Laird Grass Machinery, will enable OutThere to continue to provide the highest service to its customers whilst also enabling the company to continue its growth plans.

Steven Thompson, Managing Director of OutThere, commented: “2016 was a significant year and a major milestone for our business. For over 35 years we were known as The Landscape Centre.

However, having gone from a small landscaping business all those years ago with a handful of staff, we now have over 250 employees and operate over 70 commercial vehicles across Northern Ireland.”

“We therefore decided to rebrand the company as OutThere to reflect the way the business had changed over the years and our service proposition.”

OutThere’s partnership approach to working is also reflected in its relationship with its supply chain. The company has worked with Kubota and Laird Grass Machinery for over 15 years. The latest deal takes OutThere’s fleet of Kubota machines to 150 and includes 12 new F series out-front mowers.

Steven continues: “The performance of the Kubota’s solutions is what makes

the competition, in terms of overall quality, durability and robustness. Essentially, we know exactly what we’re going to get and the operators find the machines easy to navigate, allowing them to get their job done effectively

OutThere uses its Kubota machines on large contracts including parks, public gardens, schools, hospitals

Bradgate Fencing’s Toro LT3340 is used to maintain the amenity and sports facilities of schools primarily in the Peterborough, Huntingdon, Cambridge and St Neots areas. Company director Richard Bradley says that while the LT-F3000’s flail design gives a superior after-cut appearance in longer grass lengths, he also notes that it results in a significant reduction of grass clippings ‘clumping’.

“We wanted a reliable and durable machine that’s able to cut

longer grass in wet conditions and while our other machines leave clumps of grass everywhere, the Toro doesn’t clog up with grass cuttings and leaves the grass evenly spread, which gives a much neater end result.”

“Schools usually request that their grounds are cut every ten days, rather than weekly, in order to cut costs. But with our previous machines it had to be done weekly because of the mess they left. The new Toro allows us to cut every 10 days.”

Weapon of choice

John Deere has supplied leading landscape construction and maintenance contractor idverde (previously The Landscape Group) with 50 new 1500 Series TerrainCut front rotary mowers over the past two seasons, with a further 20 plus scheduled for purchase in 2017.

“It’s our weapon of choice where 1.5m out-front rotaries are concerned,” says Angus Lindsay, idverde’s Group Head of Assets and Fleet.

“In a long-term review of the front mowers we use, the John Deere models consistently

came out as the best and most reliable machines.”

“They were also the most favoured by our drivers, which is crucial – if an operator feels at home on a machine there is a definite increase in productivity, which we monitor daily on all our equipment.

“Initial analysis showed that 18 out of the top 25 machines were John Deere, and four of these were the new 1570 TerrainCut mowers. This shows us that when the operators are happy, they make the machines work.”

Customer votes Toro

Grillo provides versatile solutions

Grillo manufacture a varied range of mowers encompassing walk behind and ride on machines.

The company are well respected for build quality and also the outstanding performance of their machines in the wet.

Two hydrostatic pedestrian machines and no less than 10

ride on rough cutters are offered including the latest AWD models.

The latest professional mower is the FD 2200TS out-front featuring 4 wheel drive, a huge 1400 ltr grass collector with hi tip, twin speed turbine and 155cm cutter deck. With Grillo you are safe in the knowledge of truly outstanding products.

UK Enquiry 142

Avant 400 Series makes landscaping easier

Work more efficiently when landscaping with the Avant 400 series, a superb all-round machine for the development and maintenance of landscaped areas, perfect for gardeners and light professional use.

The design of the Avant 400 series will allow you to make rapid progress with a wide variety of landscaping jobs and tasks - the range features the 419 and 420 models.

The Avant 400 series of articulated telescopic loaders are compact, durable and adaptable. They are solid, easy to drive and turn evenly, and the Avant’s excellent capabilities ensure smooth handling and coping with varied terrains.

The versatile machine is enhanced further by the availability of more than 150 attachments, making so many jobs straightforward. Creating

Compact zero turn stand- on mower

The compact 36” QuickCat allows the operator to work productively and safely in tight, awkward spaces like fenced- off gated areas, cemeteries, grass verges and housing association plots.

Plus, to cope with European conditions and applications, Bobcat offer rear discharge and mulching option as well as side discharge.

Cub Cadet launches new product classifications

Cub Cadet has launched a new naming strategy, dividing its products into three categories.

The Force Series is the ‘Entry level’ range, for gardeners who are looking for power, performance and durability but at an affordable price.

The Enduro Series is designed for ambitious garden lovers, who appreciate the very best in power and performance, they are designed to cope with the highest of demands.

Finally, the Pro-Series is a professional range for commercial use, providing

the ultimate performance for commercial gardeners who place great value on premium performance, absolute reliability and demand a professional finish, even after continuous use.

Cadet Enquiry 144

Due to its overall dimensions, and the compact design, it also takes up less valuable space on a trailer and in its overnight storage area. Operator comfort is guaranteed with its wide area rider pad and anti-vibration rider platform with anti-slip, giving supreme confidence and safety.

Powered by the Kawasaki 19Hp, it features professional electric start engine FX600V and a long life AGM battery.

Offering premium comfort plus incredible performance the company is proud to offer a 6 Year or 2750 Hour commercial warranty as a recognition of its durability and build quality and weighing only 351 Kg has a light ground footprint and helps with keeping Trailer load weight lower.

Extra productivity is gained with two forward speeds one to transport the machine up to 11 mph and a cutting speed of 9mph which means operators get the work done fast and with blade cutting speeds of 17600 fpm the grass cutting finish is excellent. It gives a pristine professional cut with a single lever height adjuster offering cut height from 1.5” to 4.5”.

Bobcat Enquiry 145

and maintaining landscaped areas will be performed with ease.

All attachments are quick, simple and safe to attach. One Avant can undertake the jobs of several different machines.

The machine comes with an Avant Cab L, offering protection against rain, wind and snowfall.

Avant Enquiry 143

New distributor for Samurai brand

ICB Plant & Machinery Ltd has just been granted the exclusive distributor rights to market the Japanese Canycom range in the UK and Ireland.

Marketed under the “Samurai” brand, we believe these are the only mechanical 4WD – Shaft Driven deck equipped all terrain mower in the UK marketplace.

The unique shaft drive means that 100% of the power from the industrial Subaru engines is transferred to the cutting blades. This enables them to cut longer and taller vegetation and branches up to 36mm. In contrast, belt driven designs can experience a reduction of 30% of their power before reaching the blades and they tend to have problems with belts slipping and snapping.

The Canycom “Samurai” ride-on range is hand built using steel forged in their own factories, following centuriesold processes. Notably, the quick release cutting blades are manufactured using the same processes as those of a Samurai sword.

These very low centre of gravity four-wheel drive machines have a stability angle of 30 degrees, which makes them extremely versatile, powerful and unique machines. An additional feature is the unique Hydro + Mechanical Drive system, which has all the benefits of an automatic transmission with the power of a mechanical drive.

ICB Plant & Machinery Enquiry 146

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• 30HP Yanmar diesel engine.

• All-steel body work designed for hard use in commercial conditions.

• 4 wheel drive with centre differential to prevent damage to turf when turning.

• Superb driving position with fully adjustable seat and steering column

• Oil operated hydrostatic pedals for smooth operation – reduces driver fatigue.

• Reliable parts and after sales service from the UK importers, Kilworth Machinery Ltd.

Grillo

Cub

Seed mixtures

tweaked for 2017

features an increased proportion of No. 1 rated Clementine, which delivers the highest combined rating on the 2017 STRI close mown list. Featuring 40% Clementine and 20% of Monroe, Dickens and Chardin, this perennial ryegrass renovation mixture delivers outstanding shoot density, rapid establishment and high disease resistance.

New line-up of Turf Rewards

Delta Security installs new sliding gates at school

resistance and the cultivars compatibility in a mixture.

The new formulation of Johnsons J Premier Wicket

J Pitch has also been upgraded following end user trials and the growing popularity of Johnson’s 4Turf tetraploid perennial ryegrass cultivars. The 2017 formulation now includes 20% Fabian 4Turf. J Premier Pitch has only undergone fine tuning rather than a complete overhaul.

J Premier Pitch and J Premier Wicket are just two of the Johnsons mixtures available with a ProNitro coating for even faster establishment and stronger growth.

Turf Rewards users throughout the UK and Ireland will be spoilt for choice this year after ICL and Syngenta announced that a number of new qualifying products and reward items have been added to the loyalty scheme’s portfolio.

The popular scheme for golf, sport and amenity turf managers provides the chance to earn points from purchases and convert them into a range of valuable agronomic or educational items.

There is an extensive range of items on offer including workplace and agronomic tools plus work wear and educational vouchers, these can provide a great way to enhance education, improve operations and boost team morale.

This year sees an even wider variety of products available with the addition of new rewards.

ICL Turf Enquiry

Controlling the speed, convenience and security for visitors, pupils and staff accessing a secondary school in Hackney has been significantly improved with the installation of a new sliding gate, specified and installed by the local CCTV and access control specialist, Delta Security. Delta Security was appointed to review the needs of the school and propose a suitable

gate solution, paying particular attention to the reliability of the motor.

The new gates use the latest CAME BXV gate motor to deliver the performance required, while also offering excellent value for money.

Delta Security Enquiry 166

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DLF Enquiry 164