Professional Groundscare May 2018

A £1.5 million investment in state-of-the art packing facilities and additional storage capacity at Germinal GB’s Lincoln headquarters is part of a broader long-term strategy to increase efficiencies and competitiveness throughout its expanding forage and amenity seed businesses.

So reports Managing Director Paul Billings, who says the improved customer service now resulting from these latest developments is an essential step in future-proofing the company’s interests.

“We’ve installed an automated bag filling, palletising and pallet wrapping line capable of highly

responsive functionality and outputs of over 500 bags per hour,” he says. “We’ve also erected a new 18,565 square foot fully racked-out warehouse to effectively double our capacity to store finished goods.

“This means we can meet our customers’ orders for forage and amenity seed faster and more accurately, improving what is already renowned as a very dependable next-daydelivery service.”

Germinal GB’s amenity division breeds and supplies a range of landscape, sports turf and amenity grass cultivars, as well as an extensive selection of UKspecific wildflower varieties.

The company also distributes a range of state-of-the-art phased release and speciality fertilisers, backed up by FACTS (Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme) qualified support and advice.

Germinal’s amenity division has built a reputation for developing some of the best performing tennis, golf, football and rugby seed mixtures and for providing no-nonsense product support to the landscaping sector. It has also recently announced investment in a new crop research station which will further improve the quality and performance of its future seed mixtures.

Germinal

IOG expands GaNTIP NETWORK County FA sign up Replay

The Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) has announced that Julien Morris, formerly head groundsman at Coventry City Football Club, has joined the IOG-lead Grounds and Natural Turf Improvement Programme (GaNTIP) as regional pitch advisor (RPA) for the East Midlands Region.

His appointment extends the number of RPAs to 10, plus two key account managers, for the programme that aims to improve the standard of grassroots pitches and the skills of those who look after them throughout England and Wales.

Aged 31, Julien brings to the role an extensive skills set and knowledge base after beginning his groundsmanship career as a 15-year-old volunteer at his local cricket club (Attleborough Sports) and, during the subsequent 16 years, also being club chairman, secretary, treasurer and groundsman.

During his time at Coventry City – where he has been head groundsman since 2013 –Julien has progressed through the groundsmanship ranks, after joining in 2008 as an

apprentice. He holds a NPTC Diploma Level 3 in Sports Turf Managementin2011,aswellas NPTC Spraying qualifications PA1, PA2 and PA6.

Commenting on his appointment, GaNTIP director Jason Booth, says: “Extensive work has been completed during phase one (2014-2017) which has led to clear aims and objectives from the sponsors - the Football Association, Football Foundation and the England & Wales Cricket Board - within phase two (2017-2021).

“Julien’sexperiencewillprovea valuableadditiontowhatalready isaveryskilledanddiverseteam of regional pitch advisors who are proving to be invaluable at grassrootslevel.”

The Football Development Centre at Flegg High Ormiston Academy in Norfolk, known as the FDC@ Flegg, is one of three facilities run by Norfolk County FA.

Elliot Pride, the FDC@Flegg Development Officer oversees the full size 3G pitch at the site, managing everything from accounts, bookings and even getting hands on with the pitch maintenance. Helping Elliot to keep the surface looking and playing at its best are synthetic specialists Replay Maintenance.

A County Partner to Norfolk FA, Replay have been involved with the maintenance of the FDC’s sincetheoriginalfacilityopened in Norwich eight years ago. The service agreement see’s Replay conducting six Revive® visits per year to remove contaminates and de-compact and rotate the infill which is then regraded and dressed back into the surface.Thisresultsinenhanced porosity and improved playing characteristics.

Replay Maintenance

Dennis G860

Soil Biology provides the antidote to `Augusta Syndrome`

Every year, `Augusta Syndrome` can cause greenkeepers grief as the new golf season tees off.

Those pristine greens and fairways millions marvel at during the Masters tournament can trigger despondency in even the most upbeat greenkeeper.

Not at Harpenden Common Golf Club however, where, on the eve of the first of the Majors, the turfcare team is gazing over lush greens to rival those of Augusta National itself.

“We are enjoying our fastestever start-up to the season in our history,” states Course Manager Steve Brocklehurst. “The recovery we are experiencing is fantastic. Our greens look magnificent and members are amazed by the quality so early on in the year.

“In terms of colour, grass growth and coverage, the greens are in

their finest condition in my 45 years at the club.”

The transformation follows the club’s switch to a soil biology management approach introduced by treatment specialists Soil Biology Ltd.

“We’ve applied products unique in the sector to reduce and control rootzone pH,” explains Soil Biology lead scientist Hillery Murphy. “This allows the grass plant to take up vital nutrients such as calcium, manganese, silicon and magnesium more readily, even in cold conditions. It is these nutrients that support the biological process.

“The pH in the rootzone on many courses is simply not low enough to promote thatch degradation and soil biology.

Our Springload rootzone and Flex foliar treatments with added biostimulants reduce the pH of

the spray water and that of the rootzone to trigger the early start-up.”

As another cold front threatens to push back onset of the 2018 golf season, Harpenden Common and other courses that adopt Soil Biology’s twin-

pronged turf and rootzone treatment can enjoy watching top golf on Augusta National’s manicured holes without the notorious sector syndrome gripping them.

Soil Biology

Johnsons Premier mixtures give Liberty Stadium the edge

Liberty Stadium Swansea, the premier sports venue in South West Wales, is home to Swansea City Football Club and the Ospreys regional rugby team.

Although being sceptical, Head Groundsman Dan Kirton, made the switch to Johnsons Sports Seed in 2015 and now admits that it would take “something seriously special” to make them use anything else.

Between Johnsons Premier Pitch & J 4Turf mixtures, the team have achieved fantastic yearround results year on year. Due to their unique requirements, DLF’s Ian Barnett suggested using a combination of Johnsons J Premier Pitch during summer, and for the colder months, Johnsons J 4Turf.

Tim O’Hare Associates carry out Soil Resource Survey at RHS Garden Wisley

A Soil Resource Survey to determine the quality of soils that will be displaced by planned improvements and building works at RHS Garden Wisley has been undertaken by leading landscape and soil consultancy Tim O’Hare Associates (TOHA).

The development of the Welcome Building, construction of the National Centre for Horticultural Science & Learning and new Horticultural Service Yard are part of a wider £160 million investment in horticulture by the RHS.

It is hoped that the survey will identify soils suitable for new planting beds around the new visitor entrance, the

Welcome Building and once that work is complete, a range of horticultural developments, including the planting of an avenue of over 100 cherry trees, terraces and fi ne lawns. Low fertility soil for wildflower areas and soils offering good drainage for other planned gardens will also be required.

Senior Associate at TOHA, Tim White, carried out the survey and is optimistic that the soil can be put to good use: “The exciting developments planned for RHS Garden Wisley call for a range of soils and it makes absolute sense to utilise what is already available on site. That said, once we have determined the nature of those soils and

how they can be used to best effect around the garden, it is vital that they are managed carefully throughout the entire construction period to avoid degradation and inter-mixing.

“The Soil Resource Survey is only the very start of the process; a comprehensive Soil ManagementPlanwillbeneeded to ensure this element of the projectisacompletesuccess.”

The project will commence this summer with the upgrade to the Welcome Centre; the Hilltop redevelopment will commence in2019.

Tim O’Hare

J Premier Pitch is the UK’s No.1 sports turf renovation mixture, containing Europe’s highest rated cultivars to deliver a sward with exceptional wear tolerance, density and rapid recovery under heavy wear. J 4Turf tetraploid rye ensures rapid establishment even under low soil temperatures making it ideal for autumn and winter overseeding.

Johnsons

Rody Kilbride named Irish Student Greenkeeper of the Year

Three Dennis and SISIS bowls seminars still available

Dennis and SISIS enjoyed a successful series of bowling green maintenance seminars throughout April.

Hundreds of delegates have taken part in the 2018 series to date and there are still three seminars to take place in May.

Committed to educating greenkeepers and raising the standards of bowling greens, Dennis and SISIS have long supported the sport of bowls.

Their bowling green maintenance seminars continue to go from strength to strength with delegates praising them for helping make an improvement to their greens.

Attendees can expect tips on early spring maintenance of bowling greens, grant funding support, and choosing the correct grass seed.

A complimentary lunch, which signals the halfway point, offers great networking opportunities before attendees make their way outside to an on-the-green demonstration. The demonstration not only provides a perfect opportunity to see some of the sport’s best maintenance equipment in action but also brings together the morning education with the practical elements of applying it to the greens.

The remaining seminar schedule is:

• May 15th – Hunmanby Bowls Club North Yorkshire

• May 16th – Roundwood Sp orts & Social Club, Rawmarsh

• May 17th – Tadcaster Magnet Sports & Social Club, Tadcaster

All seminars start with registration at 9am. To register for the free and highly informative seminars, please contact Roger Moore on 01332 824777 or email roger.moore@dennisuk.com. Dennis

The winner of the Irish Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award 2018, sponsored by ICL and Syngenta, has been announced as Rody Kilbride from Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo.

For a number of years, ICL and Syngenta have been proud sponsors of the Irish Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award -which is part of the Kildare and Wicklow Education and Training Board’s (KWETB) Greenkeeping Training Course.

Colman Warde, ICL Country Manager for Ireland, presented Rody with his trophy and a gift voucher at Naas Golf Club, Co Kildare.

He said: “As a company we are very proud to continue our sponsorship of this award. The training course is a fantastic

opportunity which helps prepare the students for a promising future in this industry. It was great to present the award to Rody, who is a good example of enthusiastic, young greenkeepers. It’s good to see so many students interested in this course because they are the future of the industry.”

For the duration of the 48week course Rody was placed at Beech Park Golf Club under the watchful eye of Course Superintendent David Callanan. With the student course now complete Rody has successfully gained a full-time greenkeepers job at Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Course in Co Limerick, with the newly redeveloped course, designed by Tom Fazio, due to open in April 2018.

Eighty turf professionals see Charterhouse machines in action

Charterhouse Turf Machinery, in conjunction with dealers Ben Burgess GroundsCare, recently entertained over 80 groundsmen and greenkeepers at an open day at Thetford Golf Club.

The day included a technical talk from the STRI and gave Turf Managers the opportunity to share best practices with other industry professionals, as well seeing several practical demonstrations from Charterhouse Turf Machinery and their products.

Four stations hosted talks and demonstrations on all areas of

surface maintenance including aeration, scarification and topdressing. Antony Kirwan, Course Manager at Romford Golf Club attended the event and added: “It was a very well organised and well attended event.Walkingroundthevarious stations,itwasgreattoseealarge range of machinery in action, not just from Charterhouse but also BLEC, Rink and Graden. The various presentations and demonstrations covered all areas of surface maintenance - I found itaveryworthwhileday.”

Nick Darking, Sales Manager at Charterhouse TM added, “We had a superb day for it weathewise, and would like to pass on a big thanks to Ben Burgess for getting a great crowd together and helping to deliver a comprehensive and informative event.

“We find these sorts of gatherings very worthwhile, not only being able to show what our products can really do, but also to spend some time just talking to our customers.”

Charterhouse Turf Machinery

The informative, educational and interactive seminars combine insightful seminars and practical tips while a number of industry experts also take to the stage to discuss a wide range of key topics.

In the afternoon, delegates can gain a greater understanding of chemicals and fertilizers before the day concludes with the hugely popular Turf Clinic Q&A session - allowing attendees to ask advice about their own projects or any issues that they may have.

Sherriff Amenity host first ever myTurfClub

Sherriff Amenity recently hosted the very first myTurfClub event at Syngenta UK’s Jealott’s Hill Research Centre in Bracknell.

myTurfClub is a new initiative from Sherriff Amenity which has an ultimate goal of helping to improve the UK turf amenity sector stewardship of pesticide and products.

The event proved a great opportunity to meet other likeminded individuals, share and gain knowledge, learn best practices and ultimately enhance their education. Every delegate also gained 6 BIGGA CPD points by attending.

Commenting on the successful day, event organiser Joseph Dormer said: “We put this event together specifically because there is a need to become more pro-active in our industry. We need to be able to predict what is going to happen and have a plan in place because we are slowly losing all of the fi refighting products.

“This event is all about giving something back and to not just host an event where everyone is sat there staring at a presentation on a screen. We wanted to create an event which is all about getting the delegates to be a bit more interactive and ultimately try to ensure that everyone leaves

here with something - from the assistants all the way up to the course managers.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to Syngenta for hosting the event. I’m planning on partnering up with all of our

key suppliers so there will be a number of different subject matters in this myTurfClub series. I’m sure this will be the fi rst of many great events.”

Sherrif Amenity

DJUKE enhance sports turf services with Ventrac 4500

DJUKE, the specialist sports turf maintenance company, managed by former Queenwood course manager Cameron McMillan, has purchased a Ventrac 4500 compact tractor and a selection of implements to enhance the company’s service portfolio to golf courses and other turfrelated businesses.

The new package of machinery was delivered and installed by local dealer, RT Machinery, based at Nether Winchendon, Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire.

time-intensive task for any onsite greenkeeping team. The ToughCut deck is excellent for managing these areas; it can cut through bracken, brambles and young saplings with ease and leaves a very acceptable finish.

“The Power Rake is very impressive. We had a demonstration on a foul day and it renovated the surfaces of machinery pathways and golf car paths with ease.

Bayer launches new total herbicide in Ireland

A new pre and early postemergence total herbicide, for the control of annual and perennial weeds, has been launched into the Irish market by Bayer, and is now available to purchase.

Pistol Flex brings a new active ingredient, to the market for broad spectrum control over a wide range of uses including treatments applied to open soil, gravel surfaces, fence lines, industrial areas and railway ballast.

Greg Collins, of the Bayer Turf Solutions Team, explains

that the herbicide’s dual active formulation contains 360g/ kg diflufenican and 10g/kg iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium.

“This gives a two-pronged approach to weed control, targeting germinating seedlings through residual action, and the leaves on contact,” he said. “The product provides excellent control for even the hardest to tackle weeds and is also compatible for use under a variety of tree and shrub species.”

Greg adds that using Pistol Flex can help amenity contractors

to minimise resistance as part of an integrated vegetation management (IVM) programme.

Pistol Flex is available to purchase from Unichem and Sprayclear Environmental and is supplied in convenient 10g sachets to easily add into a knapsackor500gpacks for those that need to treat a larger area.

Bayer

Headland’s WeatherCheck and C-Complex

5-2-10 brings greens back to life

Over the autumn and winter of 2016/17, Basingstoke’s Test Valley Golf Club was struck with a serious Fusarium attack which

left their greens weakened and scar damaged. Course Manager Dave Ross turned to Alex Hawkes of Headland Amenity

to help with the creation of a recovery programme - applied it at the right time to maximise the results by using the Headland WeatherCheck service.

“Looking back at it now, the greens didn’t go into the period as strong as they should have been, leaving them vulnerable to disease” explains Dave, who heads up a team of 4 greenkeepers.

“It was clear the damage from the Fusarium attack was extensive so I asked Alex for advice to put together a recovery plan, to try and give the greens a kick start into spring.”

Alex recommended C-Complex 5-2- 10, an organic mineral fertiliser capable of working in low temperatures making it an ideal spring starter.

Alex explains: “I told Dave how C-Complex could provide a burst of early growth, which could help to grow the disease scars back in. However, to give it the best chance, I consulted the WeatherCheck service to fi nd the optimum window of opportunity.

“As this was February I was not overly hopeful, however, I could see there was an uplift in ‘Growth Potential’ imminent so we organised a next day delivery of the product for Dave to apply – the products performance, coupled with the window of increased soil temperatures, delivered amazing results and gave the greens the kick start they needed moving into the main playing season.”

Headland Amenity

“We purchased the Ventrac to broaden our service offering to our growing client base,” he said. “Since establishing the company in 2015 we have become known as aeration and drainage specialists through our DryJect, Graden and PC Drainage franchises.

“We are now enhancing our range of services to help customers maintain everything within the boundary of their property.

“Our initial purchase included Ventrac’s ToughCut deck, the Power Rake and a Power Brush. Woodland management is a

“The Power Brush is typical of Ventrac’s attachments, easy to connect to the tractor and highly efficient in use. I can’t believe how compact, powerful and manoeuvrable the Ventrac is, whichever attachment is connected.

“Without doubt this addition to our fleet will enable us to improve the non-playing surfaces for our clients and provide business opportunities that were not previously open to us. I’m delighted with the machinery package and the superb service provided by Rupert Price and his team.”

Price Turfcare

Dry Patch on fine turf - causes and solutions

Many greenkeepers will have experienced localised dry patches developing on their golf greens during the summer months, and the use of wetting agents to treat these areas has become standard practice in golf green maintenance. It is important however, to distinguish dry patch from simple drought stress.

Dry patch is defined as an area of turf that dries out and becomes difficult to rewet even when copious amounts of water is applied. It is usually characterized by the presence of a water repellent soil. The source of this water repellent soil has been linked to fairy ring activity and also the breakdown of organic materials in the root zone as part of natural plant decomposition processes.

seems to be more prevalent today than 20 or 30 years ago, and supporting evidence is found in the increasing numbers of wetting agent products that are available primarily to combat the problem. The number of wetting agents continues to grow each year, but not too long ago only a handful existed, and they were used only in certain situations or on the worst hydrophobic soil conditions.

It is believed that we are seeing more potential for localized dry patch for a number of reasons;

Research into dry patch and water repellent soils has shown the presence of water repellent material within the root zone. These materials are waxy hydrophobic compounds that can attach to sand particles within the root zone and render it water repellent. If a soil core is collected from an area of dry patch or water repellent soil it is immediately apparent. An area of lighter, dry material that easily falls apart is seen (Figure 1).

Rooting is often compromised, and water dripped onto the surface ‘beads-up’ (Figure 2). However the material above and below the dry zone can be very receptive to water. The hydrophobic portion is often quite localized. If we compare sand particles taken from a hydrophobic region with sand from a healthy rootzone, under an electron microscope, organic deposits stuck onto sand grains can be seen where the sand is hydrophobic (Figure 3). Much less of this can be seen on sand particles taken from the normal turf areas. These water repellent deposits have been extracted from the hydrophobic part of the root zone using solvents and analyzed in the laboratory. They were identified as lipids and waxes which are known to be highly water repellent

substances by fairy ring fungi certainly fits with green keeper experience in the UK but it must be remembered that this is probably not the full story. Water repellent soils exist in agriculture and natural grasslands where fairy rings have not been recorded. They also exist in other situations such as in citrus orchards after fires. Other studies have indicated that fairy ring fungi are generally not involved but the buildup of water repellent materials has come from the production of organic acids created during the natural decomposition processes in thatch. It is likely that there is a range of contributing factors.

Figure 2: Water ‘beading’ over area of hydrophobic soil.

Drought stress is different; there is no water repellent soil present and the dryness is a consequence of other turf problems. For example, poor irrigation coverage may lead to drought stressed patches. Poor rooting from a variety of causes is another cause of drought stress, meaning the plant cannot take up the water which is available.

Most observers would agree that the problem of dry patch

Water repellent rootzones have always been present to some extent in sand based greens. But the problem has intensified as the specifications of sand rootzone and topdressings moved away from the inclusion of finetextured materials. This has been compounded by the amount of play our golf greens receive, and the stress which the grass is subjected to. In the ever increasing desire to provide year round high quality putting surfaces, cutting heights remain lower for longer and fewer inputs of water and fertilizer are made. Inevitably this has an impact on the grass and the rootzone. It is fair to say that water-repellent soils and rootzones will continue to be a significant problem for most golf course managers into the future.

The origin of these lipids and waxes coating the sand grains is probably not attributable to a single cause. However, there is strong evidence that previous fairy ring activity could be one factor, and sometimes dry patches on golf greens can be seen in rings and lines across the surface similar to old fairy rings. Also when turf cores are taken from active fairy rings and incubated in moist conditions, the fungal mycelium grows out from a layer in the core which corresponds to the layer in which the most hydrophobic sand is seen (Figure 4).

Linking dry patch formation to fairy ring activity and the production of water repellent

What can be done to prevent and control dry patch? The first step is to identify the primary cause. Is there an actual hydrophobic layer present – or is the turf just drought-stressed. The irrigation system should be checked and moisture meter used to adjust water inputs, cultural practices should also be employed to try and develop a deep turf root system, and alleviate any potential compaction. However, if a water repellent soil is present and this is likely in many cases then this will need to be addressed directly. There are a range of cultural approaches which will help to mitigate the situation; thatch reduction will limit the development of fairy rings. Coring and topdressing with suitable materials will also

help replace water repellent soil with fresh material. If dry patch is severe, reduce applications of materials containing iron-sulphate as this material is a desiccant and will further dry out these patches. Dry patch increases stress on the grass plant and so relaxing mowing height and rolling to increase ball-roll speed instead is a good policy. Species conversion promoting bent and fescue grasses which are deeper rooting rather than annual meadow grass which is prone to drought is also a good long term solution.

The immediate solution is to use wetting agents, and this approach has become standard practice in modern green keeping and they

are a very effective treatment for drought stress, dry patch and water repellent soils. The very first wetting agents were used on turf more than 40 years ago and the chosen materials were general purpose detergents and not designed for golf greens. Recent research by Universities and commercial organisations has led to the production of highly active wetting agents that offer an effective treatment for dry patch. The latest wetting agents can reduce dry patch to practically zero even when there are adverse factors such as poor irrigation, poor rooting and compaction. In many cases it is the wetting agent programme that makes all the difference in producing a top quality playing surface especially when it is combined with modern low input fertilizer and watering programmes. There are large differences between the wetting agents on the market however, so consider the choice carefully. Check the research, and select the right one for your situation. Remember a programmed approach of wetting agent application, which starts early in the season will provide the best results.

Figure 1. Turf cores taken from adjacent dry patch (left) and normal (right) areas

ICL

Figure 3 : Organic materials covering sand particles from water repellent turfgrass(left) and relatively clean sand particle taken from normal turf unaffected by dry patch.

Figure 4. Incubated turf core showing fairy ring mycelium . Note no mycelium present in surface or deeper rootzone.

Z Master 8000 offers a superior groundscare solution

Professional landscapers should look no further than the Toro® Z Master 8000 Series.

Delivering a superior quality of cut and a refined finish at more productive mowing speeds, this professional mower is ideal for large turfs.

The 8000 Series comes equipped with a high blade tip speed,

ensuring superb collation performance and a high-quality finish every time. Users will benefit from a longer mow time with the 28L fuel tank and the high-capacity collection system. The exclusive baffle design fills the 335L hopper evenly from back to front for maximum efficiency, meaning less time emptying and more time mowing. Mowing with ease in tight spots, the effortless

controls and out front deck design allows for comfortable manoeuvring where traditional zero turns can’t reach.

Become more productive with the mower as it has a ground speed of up to 5mph and a hydro drive system for efficient, precise control. Downtime won’t be an issue, as the professional mower boasts features that reduce the need for extensive maintenance such as a heavy-duty sealed gearbox and a simple, reliable belt drive system.

The rear discharge deck allows for trimming on both sides and keeps flower beds and foot paths free of grass cuttings.

The Z Master 8000 Series is the answer for a perfect cut in less time.

Derby and Chesterfield take delivery of fully equipped Roberine F3 Flail Mowers

Covering a large area of Derbyshire, Derby and Chesterfield councils have gone through a rigorous selection process when choosing a new fleet of commercial ride-on mowers to maintain parks and residential areas of the shire to the highest standard.

Both councils had very specific requirements with economy and performance being at the top of their priorities.

Fitted with an efficient 41hp Yanmar diesel engine and a Flexxaire reversible fan the Roberine ticks all the boxes for economy and performance. Having trialled other models from the competitors the decision makers at Derby and Chesterfield could not overlook the facts that were all pointing to Roberine.

The F3 flail mower offers a high quality of cut in all weather conditions across varying terrains

and is highly manoeuvrable around obstacles resulting in efficient performance and reduced down time for the Groundcare team. The flail mowing system also offers a range of other benefits over traditional cylinder and rotary mowers including a high level of finish in thick overgrown grass allowing the councils to maintain tidy grounds throughout the season with a reduced number of cuts.

The mowers were supplied by Nottingham based John Deere dealer Henton & Chattell (H&C). In cooperation with Roberine and Howard Marshall Engineering (HME), H&C will provide the aftersales support for the entire fleet.

New MU-Collect Vario mulcher from Müthing

Available now, Muthing say their new MU-Collect Vario mulcher offers professional grass cutting and mulching technology for landscaping applications.

Simon Richard, UK Agent for the Muthing range, says: “The new MU-Collect Vario gives you both possibilities; an optimal mulching result and perfectly tidy surfaces. It is available in working widths of 1.4 and 1.6 m for mechanical driving powers

of 20 to 40 hp, and hydraulically driven with 30 to 70 l/min.

“The M-Vario is able to achieve the best possible mulch quality and shredding performance, while also increasing the load capacity for the carrier vehicle, thanks to an optimised intake and housing form and the ability to steplessly adjust the shredding rates at the cutting bar.”

Simon Richard

Hayter

Roberine

Shrewsbury School continues to choose Dennis

Andy Richards, grounds manager at Shrewsbury School, has added to his existing fleet of Dennis mowers after recently purchasing three new Dennis FT510’s and two new G760’s.

Andy has been the grounds manager at the illustrious Shrewsbury School for nearly eight years and he and his team of eleven groundstaff tend to 120 acres of green space – three quarters of which are sports pitches. In addition to synthetic surfaces and other world class facilities there are ten grass pitches which cater for the School’s highly competitive sports teams.

The boys compete internationally in cricket, and Shrewsbury School boasts a string of historically strong football teams. Rugby is played at a high level and girls compete locally and nationally in hockey, netball and tennis. It’s no wonder then that with over 800 pupils, many of whom participate in sports, that the sports pitches endure an incredibly high amount of usage. This, however, does not keep Andy and his team from maintaining them to an exceptionally high standard.

“The trick is to be pro-active rather than reactive,” he says. “We try to keep the standards of our pitches to those of the football league. In fact, our first team football pitch is definitely better than the pitch I had when I was the head groundsman at a professional football club.”

Andy chooses to use a variety of equipment from Dennis to get the best out of his sports surfaces. For cricket square maintenance he uses his three Dennis FT510’s and for football two G760 mowers.

“This is my third batch of FT510’s and they work

extremely hard here,” he says. “We use them predominantly for cricket wicket presentation and through the cricket season we host 250 matches – they are used for every one of those.”

The Dennis FT510 is an interchangeable cassette cylinder mower giving users options to fit twelve different cassettes including scarifiers, verticutters, brushes, spikers and slitters as well as 5 or 10 blade cutting cassettes.

“We’ve got a wide range of cassettes and by having the three machines we have the ability to use a different cassette in each one. We might have a cylinder, a brush and a verticutter out at the same time so we can use them back to back. On other days, one of the team may just work all day on a wicket and they can simply interchange their cassettes without having to get a different machine out. It’s a massive time saver and it’s great having that versatility.”

For his football surfaces, Andy revealed that he is an advocate of hand mowing and that he uses his G760’s in conjunction with his Dennis Premiers: “I’ve always been a fan of the G760’s and originally we used them on the cricket squares. However, we started hand cutting the first team football pitch with them and we have the added bonus of using a

varietyofdifferentcassettessuch astheverticutterandbrush.

“To allow us to mow more pitches by hand we use the G760’s alongside the Premiers which have a slightly wider cut and it gives us a good contrast with the G760 because that is slightly smaller and slightly lighter. When the pitches are wetterwecangetonwithaG760; on other occasions we may veer more towards the weight of the Premier.

“We try and vary what we do and it may depend on the usage and what games we have but it is ideal having a variety of machines.”

With such a hectic schedule, Andy was also quick to praise the reliability of the machines andtheback-uphereceivesfrom theDennisteam.

“We are such a busy school and we haven’t got any downtime at all. Fortunately we don’t have many problems and that comes down to the quality of the machines. The back-up from Dennis is really good and reassuring and I could pretty muchguaranteethatifsomething did go wrong, I know that something would be sorted out extremelyquickly.”

Dennis

The professional choice for tractor mounted mowers

Spring may have been late in arriving this year but now the grass is finally growing and the cutting season is in full swing.

Regular maintenance of playing fields golf courses is essential and can prove time-consuming for the busy contractor or estate owner.

Italian manufacturer Agrint specialises in compact tractor mounted implements, producing robust but light-weight mowers which make short work of cutting larger lawns, estates and sports grounds.

Farm Tech Supplies in Hampshire has teamed up with Agrint to offer this range of high quality Italian implements through dedicated UK stockists. In late spring and early summer, one of

their most popular machines is the Bora flail mower. These are great for regular cutting, giving a fine lawn finish however, this versatile mower can also handle more overgrown areas of long grass, bramble and bracken.

From flail mowers and finishing mowers to backhoes and wood chippers, the Agrint range of groundcare machines are

affordable, lightweight and robust, making them ideal for a range of maintenance jobs on estates and large gardens. The full range of Agrint compact tractor attachments are now available for immediate nationwide delivery through their distributor network.

Farm Tech Supplies

MTD is talk of the Toon

St James Park has been a home to football in Newcastle since 1880. In that time the stadium, as well as the teams playing there, have gone through a number of transformations.

Overseeing the club properties for the last 17 years has been Facilities Manager Eddie Rutherford, who in 2017 upgraded the fleet of stadium pitch mowers to include three 34” Cub Cadet INFINICUT machines.

Although renowned for their green credentials, it was ultimately the superior quality of cut that saw the mowers become the most recent additions to ‘The Magpies’.

“I’d heard and read a lot about the Cub Cadet INFINICUT mowers in the trade magazines so got in touch with Vinny Tarbox for a demonstration, and straight from the off we weren’t disappointed” explains Eddie.

Over the last 5 years, Eddie has been driving a campaign to improve the green footprint of the club, which has seen lots of improvements around the stadium. “We’re running the mowers purely on battery power which, more than just delivering cost savings, means we’re running on clean, green energy compared to petrol alternatives -battery power seems to be the way forward for the industry.”

In addition to putting a big tick in the ‘environmentally friendly’ box, the quality of cut produced sealed the deal. “It was important for us to invest in machines that deliver the best and with the Cub Cadet INFINICUT the cut you get is second to none.”

The unique design and its adaptability to perform on any grass surface makes the INFINICUT the most technologically advanced mower available to turf managers in the last 40 years. With a dynamic

return floating head, variable cut rate, and flexible setup, the INFINICUT, together with ATT SMARTCut cassette, ensures a healthy turf and provides precise adjustment to deliver an exacting quality of cut.

Final word from Eddie, “Compared to the results we were getting from the previous mowers, the guys have noticed an increase in the quality of cut and finish by at least 25%. It’s when you think about all the years there have been lawnmowers, all performing at a similar level, then this one comes along and it’s that much different – it really is impressive.”

MTD

New additions to Flailbots

Bomford Turner added two new models to its Flailbot range in 2017 - a compact 40hp model, and the larger Supreme 70hp model.

Each of the two tracks can be independently extended by the operator by 250mm, widening the footprint to aid stability and grip and allowing the mower to operate on inclines up to 55 degrees.

Rubber and studded steel track choices offer optimum traction for different surface conditions, whilst automatic track tensioning prevents track loss.

To maintain the optimum cutting

2.05m standard flails, 1.28 and 1.65m forestry heads and a 1.45m rotary unit which can be fitted with a barrier mower disc.

A range of tools and accessories allow Flailbot to be configured for a wide range of applications, including stump grinders,

trench cutters, earthmoving, snow clearing and agricultural processing.

Remote control makes Flailbot ideal for use on hilly, banked and even mountainous areas, says Bomford Turner. With a range of up to 150m, the remote

unit offers precise joystick control of forward or reverse track speeds, from 0-7kph The unit also displays real-time data,includingmachineincline, attitude and speed.

Bomford Turner

Ventrac’s versatility continues to win support

Price Turfcare, the distributors of Ventrac in the UK and Ireland, highlight that the Ventrac 4500 has four different mowing decks that will appeal to the sports turf manager and with a unique coupling system, the experienced operator can switch between options in less than one minute.

The rotary HM and HP Mower Decks utilise a rugged all-steel frame design providing highly efficient grass discharge, moving more grass through the deck tunnel. With the removal of two pins beneath the cross frame, the deck can be easily tilted to a near vertical position for maintenance and storage. The HM decks come as 1.83 metre (72 inch) side discharge with an optional mulching kit available or 1.52 metre (60 inch) rear discharge..

While slopes and banks add aesthetics and dimension to any sporting arena, those same slopes can be very dangerous to mow without the right type of equipment. The Ventrac 4500 offers a unique combination of benefi ts that no other piece of equipment can offer, providing safe solutions to your slope mowingneedsongradientsupto 30degrees.

Profihopper - five machines in one Mow, Scarify, Collect, Mulch and Roll. The incredibly tough, easy to manoeuvre Profihopper does it all.

Exceptional manoeuvrability Thanks to the compact design and intelligent 4WDi system, the Profihopper enjoys a 0-turning circle to get where others can’t.

Large hoppers means less emptying With an equivalent capacity of 1000 litres and the ability to empty at heights of up to 2.1 metres, non-productive time is kept to a minimum.

Clears rough ground as well as providing a lawn finish Even in damp conditions the renowned Profihopper delivers a perfect finishlong or short, wet or dry.

The Contour Mower, also in rotary format, features a 2.13 metre (83 inch) working width making quick work of any mowing job regardless of the terrain and without sacrificing quality of cut. Three rear discharge decks float independently and follow the contours of the terrain with up to 40 degrees of motion for each side deck. Full length rear rollers facilitate even cutting and striping and the flip-up deck design allows easy maintenance.

The MR740 Triplex Reel Mower is designed to be the ultimate trim and surround mower. With a 1.88 metre (74 inch) width of cut, variable speed hydraulics, standard back lapping valves, and offset capability, the MR740 includes many features to ensure superior, low-maintenance performance. When powered by the all-wheel drive Ventrac 4500 tractor with dual wheels, the MR740 can be operated on hills and slopes up to 30 degreesallowing the operator to go where no other reel mower can go.

Not only does the tractor frame articulate, it also pivots in the centre to maintain excellent contact with the ground and better weight distribution Its compact frame is designed with a low centre of gravity contributingtoitsslopeclimbing ability. For increased safety and stability on hillsides, add the optionalwheelextensions,which allowoperationupto25°ordual wheelsthatcantackle30°slopes.

With more than 30 different attachments, the Ventrac 4500 is a truly versatile power unit, designedtoworkallyearround.

It features all-wheel drive, an articulatingframeplusthereliable 25 hp Kubota diesel engine providing unmatched versatility, power, stability and control to get a wide range of sports turf maintenancejobsdone.

Price Turfcare

Class leading features for new ISEKI mowers

The

is turbine driven providing uninterrupted high-performance grass transition into the collector, so ensuring excellent collection of long or short grass in wet or dry conditions whilst adding a degree of compaction.

These

The

To experience the class leading performance of the SF range of mowers please contact your local ISEKI dealer or ISEKI UK & Ireland.

Iseki

Honda extends range of premium robotic lawn mowers

Honda’s addition of Miimo 3000, which features a host of enhancements, means it is now capable of handling lawns up to one acre and controllable via a smartphone app.

Aimed at those with larger areas of grass to maintain, the new range-topping Miimo HRM 3000 joins current models HRM 520 and HRM 310 in Honda’s existing robotic mower line-up.

With cutting width increased from 220mm to 250mm, it means maximum cutting area is up by 2,500 square metres to 4,000 compared to the Miimo 310.Cutting capacity is also up, by 87 metres per hour to 170 and cutting time per charge has more than doubled to 90 minutes.

Honda’s new and unique ‘Smooth Turn’ technology, available exclusively on the 3000 reduces non-productive turning time by allowing it to maintain forward travel and turn away from the boundary without stopping.

One of the most significant developments for the Miimo 3000 is wireless control through its own intuitive smartphone app. Using Bluetooth, and compatible with iOS and Android devices, the app allows programming of Miimo from a distance, making it easy and convenient to set operating times and adjust cutting parameters.

A further development for Miimo 3000 is the flexibility to position its docking station discreetly out of sight in a recess to the side of the cutting area, in a corner, or hidden away down a narrow grass passage.

Slopes and uneven work areas can be tackled easily thanks to the large drive wheels and an optimised centre of gravity to ensure class-leading traction, allowing operation on slopes up to 25 degrees (47 per cent). A direction sensor helps maintain a straight line of travel, even over undulating ground.

Mowers that won’t

Doing the job right is the main driver behind Team Maintenance Services’ policy in serving their customers.

This grounds maintenance contracting company is based in Cornwall and was established in 1998 by husband and wife team, John and Emily Julyan.

“Our contracts are mainly for schools and colleges, maintaining grass football and rugby pitches and external amenity areas for local authorities, said John Julyan, “we also have a PFI contract with Interserve and all our customers expect a quality job every time, on-time and that’s what they get.”

Reliable mowing equipment that provides a high quality

let

you down

finish year-in, year-out has been the prime focus for the company. They currently run two Major Swift Winged Roller Mowers, which have proven to be low maintenance and high performance - an important component in providing the best customer

experience. Both mowers are three-point linkage mounted and the largest model is a folding, 5.5metre cut with a folded transport width of just 2.0metres.

“The Major mowers are so reliable and effi cient to run,

commented John, ‘and if we need spare parts or product support, Major and our local dealer are there in an instant to sort it out - I can’t ask better than that.

Machines fit for all reasons from Grillo

Grillo manufacture an extensive range of mowing equipment all hand built to an exacting standard.

For banks and overgrown areas there is the Climber range of 2 & 4wd models to choose from.

If a manicured lawn type finish is required then Grillo produce some of the best collecting out front machines on the market.

Cutter deck sizes range from a small 80cm domestic machine to its top model the FD2200TS.

This has a huge 180cm deck with 48hp Yanmar diesel engine, 1400ltr hi tip collector and permanent 4wd with auto diff lock.

READER ENQUIRY 99

Honda

Grillo

Pedestrian machines from STM

The pedestrian SCAG SWZ machine from STM Co Ltd is available with a twin rear wheel set-up on the driving wheels, giving increased grip, wider footprint and effectively a lowered centre of gravity.

This is a well-established and popular approach to such conditions, with many units sold per year for use by councils,

estatemanagementprovidersand hirecompanies,saysSTMCo.

SWZ pedestrian mowers are available with 76cm, 1.2m and 1.3m rotary cutting decks, or 76cm, 90cm and 1.2m fl ails, with the twin wheel attachment is an optionalextra.

STM

Goodwood estate goes Toro

Goodwood has returned to Toro as it continues in its ambition to develop a ‘super fleet’ for its 12,000-acre Sussex estate.

The last time we caught up with Phil Helmn, general manager of sports turf and grounds at the all-encompassing Goodwood, he had taken delivery of a fleet of Toro fine turf machinery for The Downs and The Park golf courses in 2015 and said it signalled the start of a more structured approach to machinery operation.

True to his word, we’re back in touch with Phil as he receives his six latest Toro purchases, all grounds machines to take care of the estate gardens, grassed lawn areas, the motor circuit, airfield and horse race course.

The order included three Groundsmaster 3500-D mowers, a Groundsmaster 4300-D, two Groundsmaster 5910 mowers, and two UTVs – the GTX and MDX-D, is the new MyTurf servicing system.

The Pro fleet management program, myTurf, operates by

automatically recording how long the machines have been in operation and how many hours they have accrued when they re-enter the maintenance facility and pass a sensor at the door. This allows the mechanics to calculate preventative maintenance and replacement parts needed, and machine history can be accessed

The perfect solution whatever the task

by simply logging in to the systemonacomputer.

This latest Toro order is the culmination of a few years work for Phil, assessing how best to manage such a large estate and team.

Reesink Turfcare

Ransomes expertise rolls into Mastiff

The Mastiff by Ransomes is the premier sports surface and pitch heavy duty roller mower producing a distinctive 91cm pristine striped finish.

The Mastiff converts to a highly manoeuvrable ride-on machine with various seating options and is powered by a 9hp petrol engine. It also has a huge capacity for collecting clippings and sets the benchmark for stadium mowers.

Key features include: widest width of cut for higher productivity; better, more consistent cut - day in and day out; optional trailing seat for operator comfort; six and nine blade cylinders provide a choice of cut rates; and optional large self-emptyinggrassbox.

Spider remote controlled mowers have been sold in the UK since 2004 and are the ideal machines for maintaining steep slopes and banks that are difficult to manage with brushcutters or ride-on machines.

Today, Spider mowers are distributed by T H WHITE Machinery Imports Ltd, the specialist division of T H WHITE Group established following the acquisition of the Ferris and Wright mower brands from IPU.

One recent purchaser is Pip Turley, the proprietor of PT Landscapes, based at Minchinhampton in Gloucestershire. For the past 20 years he has been responsible for the groundscare at Howard Tenens premises in the southwest of England.

Howard Tenens Ltd is one of the largest privately managed logistics companies, providing tailored storage solutions with over 3,500,000 square feet

of high quality warehousing across the UK. Explaining the reasons behind the purchase of his Spider 1 mower he said: “Many of the properties in the Howard Tenens portfolio are sunken below the original ground level to mitigate their impact on the surrounding area.

“This results in many grassed banks and slopes that have to be maintained. I’ve always used brushcutters to keep the grass banks presentable, but this was becoming ever-more time consuming as Tenen’s opened more facilities in the southwest, so I needed a solution that would reduce the time and enable me to focus on other areas.

“I put a proposal to Howard Tenens and they contacted T H WHITE, who came down with a selection of machines for me to demo. I’d already discounted tracked vehicles as they have a tendency to tear the turf, so when I saw the Spider, I was literally, blown away.

“One bank at Tenen’s depot in Sharpness used to take between 3-4 days to cut with brushcutters; now it takes less than a day. It’s an amazing piece

of kit and one that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to other contractors.”

Ransomes

TH White

Pellenc Rasion Easy pedestrian mower available from Etesia UK

Following the successful launch of the Pellenc Rasion Basic and Smart models in 2015, the company introduced the Pellenc Rasion Easy.

The Rasion Easy has an IP54 water rating, which as time goes on will be the standard through the rest of the Pellenc tool range, and features a grass density detector - a patented feature exclusive to Pellenc which allows the mower to detect the height and density of the grass and change the engine speed accordingly. This saves power as operators do not have to run the machine under full-load unnecessarily.

A cutting width of 60cm with height of cut between 2575mm, 70 litre grass box capacity and two front swivel

wheels ensure the Rasion Easy is ultra-manoeuvrable. Weighing less than 30kgs and folding handlebars means that transportation between sites is effortless.

All Pellenc batteries and tools come complete with a three year commercial warranty as standardthe first manufacturer to offer this on battery-powered tools. Pellenc is exclusively distributed in the UK and Ireland by Etesia UK.

Etesia UK

The professional’s choice from Cobra

Cobra is famed for having the largest range of lawnmowers in the UK market.

Alongside these mowers sits an extensive range of handheld models, including an extensive range of brushcutters.

Like all Cobra petrol powered products, the brushcutters have a variety of engines to choose from. Options include Cobra own brand engines, as well as the brand new Cobra S-Series engines which are environmentally friendly, with low emissions that meet the latest EU directive EU-V for emissions. A further option, which are perfectly suited for professional users, are the Kawasaki models, of which there are five to choose from.

Each is powerful, efficient and reliable and meets the demands of hard working gardeners and professional landscapers. These extremely robust machines clear areas of overgrowth without putting the strain onto the user. With a two-stroke air cooled engine, the Kawasaki models provide improved acceleration and power whilst having the ability to function when held in any position.

The BC270KB has a 26.33cc engine with a 0.77kW maximum power and loop handle, alternatively it is available with a bike handle with double shoulder harness as the BC270K.

For increased power there is the BC350K which has a 35cc

Kawasaki engine, giving a maximum power of 1.03kW. Again, it is available with a bike handle (BC350K) or a loop handle (BC35KB). The final model is the incredibly powerful is the BC450K with a 45cc Kawasaki engine and bike handle. It gives a power output of 1.42kW to plough through the toughest of overgrowth.

All Cobra brushcutters with a Kawasaki engine come with a

Achieve outstanding results with AS Motor mulch mowers

AS Motor mulching mowers allow time-saving care for lawns - the grass is cut and remains in place. There are no multiple engine start, no grass collection bag, no disposal of the cuttings.

Achieve outstanding results from effective mowing with AS Motor mulching mowers that cut and chop the grass while pushing it into the ground as fertilizer –with the AS 510, you can even

cut medium height grass in a timesaving manner. The special feather steel blade inside the stable mulching bell splits the grass so thinly, that time consuming grass collection is not necessary. Thanks to its perfectly balanced, stable and light weight design, you can mow away effortlessly.

When mulching, the grass is first cut several times and then whirled like in a fan to the top, only to be pushed

in the same process immediately down to the bottom. The cut grass is so finely shredded that it simply disappears between the stems left

two-year domestic warranty, and one-year professional warranty as standard.

Cobra products are available exclusively from Henton & Chattell, and subsequently are supported by an extensive dealer network which supplies products and servicing through its 1500+ dealers across the UK.

Cobra

The INFINICUT® line of all electric precision mowers was designed to be user-adjustable to match the conditions of any given day. From the dynamic return floating head mechanism to the variable clip speed, height of cut adjustment and moveable bedknife the INFINICUT® provides more functionality than any other pitch mower. Combine that with today’s highly technical approach to pitch construction and unpredictable microclimates, the INFINICUT® ensures a healthy turf while providing an unrivaled quality of cut.

@InfiniCut

standing and then quickly rots and turnsintofertiliser

PSD Groundscare

EGO offer powers and performance to ground care professionals

To meet the needs of ground care professionals in terms of power, performance, convenience and wellbeing, EGO Power+ is launching its first dedicated range of commercial cordless garden tools.

Powered by the patented design of the 56V Arc Lithium battery system, which delivers the power of petrol without the petrol, the range comprises three high-spec tools – a hedge trimmer, a commercial line trimmer, and a blower.

All offer super tough, low maintenance construction to help grounds care professionals work harder all-day every day, even in the most challenging conditions. EGO have spent a lot of time talking to professional users to better understand what is required from them of their tools. The result is a range of tools

designed to perform beyond the expectations of even the most challenging user.

All three new tools are packed with innovation. In an industry first, the brush cutter has a carbon fibre shaft which makes it more lightweight for ease of handling, but, even more importantly, it makes it extremely strong. Where standard aluminium shafts bend or get damaged, this shaft stays strong to meet the day-to-day routine of

handling, transporting and storing. Additionally, EGO will also launch a new backpack battery, which once again, takes cordless performance to a whole new level. With an IP rating of 56 this new battery is suitable for all weather conditions.

There’s no need to stop and place a plastic cover over the top of it like some other manufacturers because its 1500 watt hour capacity will just keep on working.

EGO Power+

Etesia launches SKD ExxDrive

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

Machine for difficult terrain

The STIHL FR 460 TC-EM backpack brushcutter uses the powerful, advanced and fuelefficient STHIL 2-MIX engine.

The softly padded carrying system distributes the weight of the engine ergonomically over the user’s shoulders and hips, and a flexible coupling between the engine and tool’s shaft makes the brushcutter more manouevrable, even when working uphill.

STIHL has even set a tool bag into the backpack’s support frame so accessories like extra cutting tools are ready to hand.

It is equipped with the M-Tronic electronic engine management system as standard. M-Tronic precisely regulates the ignition timing and fuel mix in every machine operating state, optimizing performance and efficiency even at changing

temperatures and altitudes or when running on varying fuel grades.

CAMON’s 4-stroke brushcutters prove a hit

Trimming up after the mower, edging lawns, clearing vegetation from trees, posts and the base of hedges and mowing in areas that can be inaccessible for bigger machines, the brushcutter is an indispensable tool for professional landscapers and homeowners.

CAMON brushcutters from Tracmaster are designed to satisfy the needs and working demands of all users.

Features include anti-vibration and adjustable handlebars for perfect weight distribution, market leading engines, safety goggles, bump feed head and grass blade as standard.

Tracmaster also supplies a large range of alternative cutting heads, from clearing saws to the

fantastic Nylsaw Speed heads.

Three different models of 4 stroke brushcutter are available, including the Combi HO25 with brushcutter,

hedgetrimmer, chain pruner and a 75cm Extension for longer reach.

A Little Wonder from Schiller

The Little Wonder Hydro BRC-26 Brushcutter is part of aformidable line-up of machinery solutions from Schiller Grounds Care.

The Little Wonder uses steel linkages and no cables, which are prone to snapping, that enables the machine to handle really heavy brush and the toughest brambles.

Productivity is high with the forward speed of up to 4.2mph/6.7kmh and 1.7mph/2.7kmh in reverse. The all-round ability of the machine, the fact it will cut through long, tough grass and sapling growth up to 2”/5cm thick while also able to leave a good, clean finish on less challenging grass areas. “

STIHL

Tracmaster

Schiller

ECHO is the professional’s choice

The SRM-420TES from ECHO’s high torque range, designed and built exclusively for professional operators it utilises multiple technologies to enhance user productivity and comfort.

With a 1:2.07 gear reduction ratio, the SRM-420TES’s high torque gearbox spins the cutting head one-and-a-quarter turns per engine cycle and delivers 50% more torque than its predecessor. This extra torque means that, when fitted with heavier line, the brushcutter can make short work of even dense bramble or brush without losing head speed.

The cutting head on the 420TES has been upgraded too. Now with

an extra 7.6cm of cutting radius, operators can cut wider swathes, reducing the number of passes required to complete the job at hand. Coupled with ECHO’s ‘Tap & Go’ quick line release system, the SRM-420TES can quickly work through larger areas with few stops to load new line.

The 420TES benefits from a new engine design. Now stage 2 emission compliant, the 41.5cc engine boasts a power output of 1.78kW, over 10% more than its predecessor. Engine performance has been further enhanced thanks to a new air filter design.

Positioned at the rear of the machine, away from flying dirt

Wipe it out with Wessex

and debris, filtration has been greatly improved, allowing for smooth and efficient engine performance. Access to the filter is tool-free and the cover can be removed and fitted by hand, even when the operator is wearing work gloves.

A newly designed quick hook-up and release harness is features on this U handle brushcutter. This allows the operator to easily detach themselves from the machine quickly should the need arise.

ECHO

The easy way to clear

Rough grass, overgrowth and brush can take hold in any location and conditions.

Whether it’s an unused field, overgrown scrubland or a dense orchard, Billy Goat brushcutters are the machines for the job.

Sturdy and-heavy duty Billy Goat machines are simple to operate and will clear areas with complete ease.

Robust brushcutters from Billy Goat are designed for cutting the toughest of overgrown areas. They plough through dense brush up to 6’ high, as well as grass and weeds as tall as 8”. Even saplings don’t stand a chance.

Gator SpeedLoad cutting system reduces reloading time

The Oregon Gator SpeedLoad cutting system was designed to get lawn care professionals and homeowners back to work quicker, increasing efficiency and ease of use.

Oregon’s integrated head and disk line system simplifies the reloading of trimmer line because it requires no winding or spooling, reducing both frustrationandreplacementtime tolessthan20seconds.

Longer-lasting and two times stronger than its competitors, Oregon Gator SpeedLoad’s innovative tongue-and-groove line comes pre-wound in small, self-contained discs for convenient transport, making it a fast, easy-to-use replacement solution.

These powerful brushcutters are unfazed by hidden items lurking in the grass. They make clearing vast areas, meadows and fields a breeze, as well as also being handy for clearing paths and tackling overgrowth that has perhaps got a little out of hand.

There are five models in the range offering a variety of options. All models have a 26” cutting width and a heavy duty

blade spindle that is reinforced on four sides to tackle the toughest of cutting tasks with ease, as well as a rigid deck for extra stability.

There are two self-propelled models with three speeds, both powered by 13hp petrol engines, and weigh in at 166kg. There is the choice of either a Briggs & StrattonorHondaengine.

There are three hydrostatic transmission models available, all powered by 13hp Honda petrolengines.

These have the option of either pull or electric starting and featureauniquepivotingdeckto offerincreasedmanoeuvrability.

The top of the range HHEU model also features optional height adjustment from 4.5cm to 9.5cm.

Billy Goat products are exclusively available in the UK through Henton & Chattell dealersnationwide.

The concept of weedwiping was developed in New Zealand in the 1970’s and it offers a controlled method of targeting weeds.

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.

There’s a large wheel at each end, one of which drives the roller 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.

Mitox packed with pedigree

The Japanese-made Mitox represents a formidable range of commercialbrushcutters.

The new Mitox machines, formerly Kawasaki, still boast Kawasaki engines and quality Japanese manufacture, yet at lower prices in 2015 than you would have paid for the equivalent Kawasaki brushcutter in2014.

At the top end of the brushcutter range is the Mitox heavy-duty 5300UK PRO for the professional who is using a brushcutter all day in harsh surroundings

Rochford

The Oregon Gator SpeedLoad cutting system has three models which, combined, fit over 95% of petrol-driven trimmers and brushcutters, and is available at authorised Oregon dealers nationwide.

Oregon

Wessex

Billy Goat

The right machine for the job: Kubota’s BX231 sub-compact tractor

Tim Yates, Product and Key Account Manager for Kubota

UK Tractor & Groundcare, explores the key features and technical specifications of the BX231 tractor machine that makes it suitable for contractors and operators looking for a machine that is capable of completing a breadth of tasks.

For many contractors and amenity professionals, the need for a single machine that is capable of completing a multitude of jobs is paramount. This is where the BX231 subcompact tractor comes into play, as a premium specification tractor that reflects the longstanding heritage and quality expected of Kubota machinery, manufactured at our state-of-the-art facility in Atlanta, USA.

Boasting a wide range of specifications and technical features, the BX231 is

manufactured entirely by Kubota in order to create a machine that is not only able to complete all of the necessary tasks professionals face on a day-to-day basis, but to also deliver the highest level of durability and functionality.

The lightweight nature of the BX231 makes it the ideal machine for landscapers, as it can be loaded onto a trailer, making it easy to transport to each job or site, without the requirement for a HGV.

Front loader

One of the key features of Kubota’s BX231 sub-compact tractor is its front loader, which is manufactured to solely fit Kubota’s BX231 model. The matched-fit between the machine and the implement provides professionals with a complete package at the most attractive price. The new BX231 model’s loader hoses are featured inside the boom for greater protection

and better visibility, increasing the safety and ease of operation when using the loader.

The loaders quick attach and detach mechanisms make for easier manoeuvrability, as professionals can remove the loader without the requirement for tools. The loader’s new H-shaped stand supports the loader when it’s not fitted to the machine, whilst also functioning as a hose guard when the loader is in use. To remove the loader you simply release 2 pins and 4 QRC’s, the loader can then be left on a hard surface.

The loader’s specifications make it ideal for materials handling, transporting sand, soil, compost and general waste across site with ease.

Easy-over mower deck

Similar to its front loader, the BX231’s easy-over mower deck has been manufactured on a ‘made to fit’ basis, to again provide the highest level of Kubota quality.

The deck can be attached in just three simple steps by sliding out the 40-degree ramps and releasing the rear spring-loaded wheels, then driving over the deck and engaging the Rear Deck Lock and onetouch universal joint lever. Finally, operators must retract the ramps, raise the deck and they are ready to complete mowing tasks quicker and easier.

The deck can be removed without any tools, providing users with easier transport and operation, eliminating risk of damaging the deck when navigating the site. If operating the vehicle around site with the mower deck attached, it offers a 152.4 mm transport ground clearance to also eliminate any potential damages.

The easy disconnect of the 54” or 60” side discharge decks also provides easy servicing and

to the implement.

The machine is also available with a 48” rear discharge deck with optional mulching kit, offering contractors the opportunity to use machinery that meets the individual needs of each site. For contractors operating longer cut cycles, particularly in the spring when the turf is dewy and growing at a fast rate, the rear discharge deck is the ideal option.

For professionals operating a shorter cut cycle, particularly in the summer when the grass is drier and growing less, the optional mulching kit offers professionals the opportunity to achieve a regularity of cut by mulching approximately once a week.

Mulching presents a wide range of benefits for landscapers conducting weekly cutting of dry grass. This is due to the clippings being cut into fine pieces that easily fall to the soils surface in the cavities between the blades of grass.

The side discharge decks offer the opportunity for a grass

collector to be attached, with 450 litre and 600 litre capacity collectors to choose from. The 600 litre collector empties out at ground level, whilst the 450 litre is a high-lift collector, with a tipping height of around 6ft, ideal for contractors removing clippings from the site.

Power Take Off and Implements

The BX231’s wide reaching capabilities are supported by its ability to be partnered with a complete range of 3-point linkage implements such as rollers and mowers.

The BX231 also supports a wide use of implements through its

independent Power Take Off (PTO) providing power to the implements, independently of all other functions of the tractor. This provides professionals with easier operation as they do not need to operate a clutch pedal.

Comfort and ease of use

For landscape and amenity professionals, a single site can often require many forms of maintenance. This is why the BX231 sub-compact tractor provides the ideal solution, with its made-to-fit implements and mower decks offering the renowned standard of quality, durability and reliability that Kubota is synonymous with.

maintenance of the machine as operators have complete access