Professional Groundscare September 2023

Tacking the changing seasons

GroundsFest all set to kick off its debut event

Hundreds of brands will be on display at GroundsFest as it prepares to welcome grounds staff, greenkeepers, landscapers, gardeners, local authorities, estate managers and contractors to Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 20 – 21 September.

The new event will provide an opportunity to not only see a wide range of machinery in action but get up close and personal with it.

In addition to the outside areas there are two large indoor halls featuring exhibitor stands, a BAGMA Dealer Hub, catering outlets and seminar theatres.

GroundsFest will feature a wide range of exhibitors showcasing machinery, power, and hand tools; seeds, turf, aggregates, and treatments; landscaping materials; arboriculture, horticulture, and forestry products; playground equipment; irrigation and drainage equipment, and more.

Carried out by Grounds Training, free hands-on, training sessions on a range of groundscare topics including line marking, pedestrian mowers, ride-on mowers, handheld machinery, and the calibration and use of knapsack sprayers and boom sprayers.

The sessions will be delivered by a fantastic team of Lantra approved instructors which includes Keith Kent, Martin Sampson, Chris Parry, and Steve Potter.

With five seminar theatres, outdoor practical sessions, and an abundance of landbased education providers in attendance, GroundsFest is set to have the largest display of educational opportunities ever seen at a groundscare event.

GroundsFest’s all-encompassing education programme has been designed for all sectors of the groundscare and landscaping industry. In addition to the seminars, there will also be an education area featuring many

of the UK’s leading land-based colleges.

The free-to-attend, CPD accredited education programme is set to be a major attraction at the event and will feature many expert speakers including representatives from the Amenity Forum and the STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute), Geoff Fenn (Origin Amenity Solutions), Adam Witchell (The Nurture Landscapes Group/ Harlequins Rugby), Wayne Grills (BALI), Keith Kent (Grounds Training), plus many more.

An entire hall dedicated to all those involved in the planning, design, and construction of outdoor environments in the landscaping sector.

The Landscape Zone will spotlight the latest outdoor environment technologies, solutions and innovations and will be a mustattend event for landscape architects, local authority landscaping professionals, garden designers, landscape contractors, interior designers,

Weed & Pest Control

The solutions you need to combat the problem

Pages 19-21

facilities managers and many more. After an action-packed day at GroundsFest, unwind and continue networking with live music, and sumptuous street food.

There will be great selection of DJ’s and live bands taking to the stage and there will also be beer tents and drink stalls. The festival will start at 5pm on the first day of GroundsFest.

GroundsFest

Enquiry 40

Unrivalled performance and impressive versatility

Artificial Turf Maintenance

Keeping surfaces in top quality condition

Page 22

Dennis G860

Sisis Auto-Rotorake Mk5

OAS double up at SALTEX 2023

with superior stress tolerance in temperatures as low as 4 ° C. Carbon4Grass is a range of grass seed mixes that have been developed to support the industry’s awareness of carbon mitigation in amenity and landscaped areas.

Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) will be making their presence felt at SALTEX with two stands.

Leading the way in the amenity and grounds management market, the OAS technical team will be available on stands G060 and G057, offering turf management solutions for all grounds managers and greenkeepers alike.

Visitors to G060 will get a fl avour of the comprehensive OAS product portfolio which will include its range of brand leading, tried and tested seeds, fertilisers, and biologicals, plus the addition of water management and digital solutions for your grounds management programmes. Several of the latest OAS technology-led solutions will be profi led.

These include a new generation of tetraploid grass seed mixtures which deliver enhanced root growth and germination along

Live demonstrations of the digital Turfkeeper platform will be happening on the stand, highlighting the sought after integrated operations and management solution which gives Turf managers insight and control over staff management, task planning, machinery management, inventory control, chemical applications planning and recording, budgeting, and expense management.

Our OAS Irrigation Specialists will be on hand to demonstrate and discuss the latest water management solutions and how they can enhance your turf health and performance whilst saving you time and money.

For the fi rst time at SALTEX the OAS Line Marking team will have their own dedicated stand (G057) to showcase their robust and unrivalled line marking offering.

A range of line marking machines, from pedestrian spray markers to the latest technology in GPS guided robot line markers; alongside industry-leading line marking ready-to-use IMPACT paint range will be on show. Their new line marking brochure will be unveiled at the show and will be available for visitors to take.

Origin Amenity Solutions

Enquiry 42

New Cramer zero turn battery mower launching at SALTEX

At this year’s SALTEX (1st –2nd November 2023 at the NEC, Birmingham), on stand H090, Cramer will be launching two new Optimus Z zero turn batterypowered mowers specifically designed for professionals who demand the ultimate in performance and durability.

The ride on model boasts a mowing speed of 25.6KM/H - the fastest in the marketand a battery that allows for a full day’s operation, whereas the stand on model has been designed for use in narrow, awkward spaces.

Both Optimus Z zero turn mowers have been designed for durability and longevity, and come with a host of invaluable features.

The ride on model has individual rear wheel hub motors which integrate transmission for fast drive as well as park brake. It benefits from a large 18 or 24 kWh battery with a run time up to 8.5 hours per charge. Features include a water resistant storage unit to cope with our changeable weather together with cup holder and mobile phone charger. A new high level LED bar in white and amber, with flash function, make

for high visibility and therefore improved safety.

The Optimus Z stand on zero turn mower measures just 92cm in width to enable it to be driven through smaller gates and around tighter obstacles. It comes with a premium leg pad for driver comfort.

In addition to the two new mowers, Cramer will be exhibiting a selection of its existing cordless professional outdoor power equipment tools, all of which are powered by an 82V battery system, and benefit

from innovative features such as Magnesium components, fleet connectivity, and ultra-high torque motors to rival petrol performance.

Cramer products on show at SALTEX will include handheld equipment such as chainsaws, blowers, hedge trimmers, grass trimmers, brush cutters, multi-tools, and power cutters. Walk behind products will also be featured, such as utility carts and lawnmowers up to 61cm (twin blade).

Handy Distribution Enquiry 43

OUTDOOR DEMOS

See it in action over 2 days

RETAIL AREA

Exclusive discounts for GroundsFest visitors

FREE EDUCATION

LANTRA approved practical sessions

MUSIC FESTIVAL Live DJs and bands

partnership with:

Lifos wins environmental initiative award

The Fort is the most advanced allin-one solar battery storage system. With three models: 12kWh, 23kWh and 35kWh all providing an 11kVA output and supplied with 3.4kW of solar panels. The Telford-based company has developed a range of lithium-based solar PV battery storage systems to deliver long lasting power in lightweight packages.

Packed with 18 solar panels that neatly fit inside when transporting, the Fort delivers 3.4kW of green power complete with a kick stand or optional container roof mounting kit. Ideal for use on any construction sites, even in remote locations or fixed onto the roof of a welfare unit.

Ultimate dual-purpose vehicle

LCVT Ltd, working in partnership with a national grounds maintenance company to develop the beavertail side tipper body to address two key challenges faced by the sector.

The first being younger people coming into the sector not having the necessary licence classification to be able to tow a trailer unless put through driving

training and a trailer test, and secondly the under utilisation of beavertail bodies, used to move machines to site, having to be stood up in the winter months due to commercial mowers not needing to be transported.

The unique innovative aluminium body developed by LCVT addresses both the above problems. With the ability to

carry up to 1,200kg (dependant on base vehicle) and with removable caged sides (being part of a comprehensive options list) for the carrying of winter waste the vehicle offers all year-round utilisation, while having a GVW of 3,500kg meaning it can be driven on a standard car licence.

LCVT Ltd

Enquiry 47

Manufacturer receives prestigious FIFA accreditation

MH Goals is delighted to announce its new Stadium Box Goal has been offi cially recognised as a FIFA Quality Product.

This latest top accreditation for the Suffolk-based company has been a number of years in the making, and has been a key aim for the company since the new standard was announced by FIFA.

The new quality standard was an opportunity to overhaul and redesign the company’s popular top of the range box goal, to not only pass this new standard but also give clubs and schools an outstanding and innovative product.

system to included heavy duty straps and failsafe wire.

The renowned accreditation builds on the safety standard BSEN748 and BSEN16579, but requires a number of other key workplace polices. These include the companywide quality standard ISO9001, having an independent work place assessment to World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry standards (WFSGI) and specific FIFA approved insurances.

The goals were then tested by an approved FIFA test house, to

the latest FIFA safety standards. “This new pro goal has been in progress for some time so it’s great to not only introduce it to the football world but also to have the all-important FIFA accreditation to go with it,” said Sales Director Matthew Harrod.

“At MH Goals we strive to be at the forefront of the market with our range of unique British manufactured products but also to have the international quality marks and accreditations to back it up’.

MH Goals Enquiry 49

The Lifos Fort solar PV battery storage system won the Plantworx Environment Initiative Award with a product that is set to help the construction industry transition to a diesel-free and low-carbon future.

The award-winning product is set to significantly reduce the cost, noise and emissions of using a diesel generator on site, demonstrating a new era in sustainable long-life solar PV and battery storage.

Adrian Williams, Managing Director, said: “The Environmental Initiative Award is a recognition of the serious carbon reduction benefits of the Lifos Fort and the unique design of the all-in-one solar battery package.

“Winning the award is a tremendous boost to the engineers, designers and everyone involved in the development of the product.”

Manufactured in Telford the LIFOS Fort is a major step forward in battery performance and smart battery management. It will supply information on diesel usage, CO2 savings and solar power generation for easier ESG reporting. The Lifos Fort comes with a 5-year warranty and unique battery replacement scheme incorporating a new-life, battery cell replacement programme.

Lifos Enquiry 48

The goals have a number of special features, including external micro height adjustment, strengthened aluminium section and a new net attachment system which is encapsulated into the goal frame using MH Goals’ Hold Fast net hooks. The folding net rail has been upgraded and now includes a ground locking system, added strengthening wire to the nets and upgraded the net support

For all your line marking and facility paint

We are a British based manufacturer with over 60 years experience amongst the team in developing and making paint & line marking liquids. We can work with you wherever you are to develop the best product for you from our site in Nottinghamshire. Other products include multi colour acrylic paint, cleaning fluid, sprayer nozzles, goal post paint and much more.

Telephone: 01773 830 700

Email: info@regalpaintslimited.co.uk

Website: www.regalexpoline.com

COMPO is top of the range for bowls greens

All of which promote vitalisation, stress tolerance and root development while providing optimum turf quality. The innovative product range includes specialty mineral and stabilized fertilisers, slow and controlled release fertilisers, water soluble and liquid fertilisers as well as biostimulants, trace elements and soil conditioners.

Ian Dickson, a bowling green contractor, believes that COMPO EXPERT products have proved to be top of range without the premium price tag.

COMPO EXPERT believes in sustainable, integrated turf management by focusing on modern fertilisation concepts, consistent regeneration of growth and optimal support of the plant’s own physiological processes.

The first product Ian tried from the COMPO EXPERT range was Fertilis Speed, an NPK complex fertiliser with emphasis on nitrogen for spring and summer application to promote growth and a quick green-up.

Ian also maintains a sand-based green which is prone to leaching. For this green he applied Floranid Twin Eagle K – an extra fine granulated slow-release complex fertiliser of excellent solubility.

Agrovista Amenity Enquiry

Course manager reports ease of maintenance with Attraxor

A Golf Course Manager from a deluxe golf and spa resort nestled in the scenic Cheshire countryside explains why they use Attraxor to keep their turf green, clear of Poa annua, and easily maintainable.

John Quinn, based at The Mere Golf Resort and Spa near Knutsford, has been using Attraxor for three seasons and has shared the benefits he’s seen on the golf course.

The Mere offers a deluxe fourstar hotel experience with a spa and a scenic 18-hole lakeside Championship Golf Course, encompassed by mature trees and extensive vegetation. The 81-room hotel is a popular retreat for avid golfers, with many posting their experience on Trip Advisor complimenting

the greens as being “smooth, fabulous, and well kept.”

John discussed the reasons he began to use Attraxor at The Mere: “After hearing lots of good stories about Attraxor, I decided to try it with the hope it would make the greens growth consistent and reduce clippings. We also wanted to suppress the growth of Poa annua seedheads to keep the greens smooth.”

Attraxor has been proven to regulate growth effectively as part of a well-managed turf strategy, meaning the hard work put into the upkeep of the grounds lasts longer. The active product within Attraxor is Prohexadione-calcium, which inhibits the gibberellic acid pathway, resulting in reduction of turf height and biomass.

Root growth is promoted through Attraxor to aid strength, whilst turf colour and quality are maintained.

John said: “I use Attraxor every 21 days on our greens and it has lowered the mowing maintenance of the greens and complemented our existing efforts of greens upkeep. During periods of high growth, we alternate days mowing and rolling to reduce plant stress. Attraxor gives me better control of growth rates.

“Throughout the 21-day period, a more uniform sward is possible each week. I’ve found that the Poa annua seedhead suppression qualities are superior to Trinexapac-ethyl products. If any seedheads do pop up, they are remarkably smaller and leave a much finer putting surface.”

John also discussed the improvement of quality he is seeing within the grass, saying: “We have been overseeding with creeping bentgrass for three years now, and in conjunction with our use of Attraxor, we have seen a much better uptake from our overseeding work!

“Introducing Attraxor to our maintenance regime has meant we spend less time mowing the greens. Having such good control over the growth rates means the option is always there to give the greens a break for a day without any mechanical input if we feel it would benefit. Attraxor has given

me so much control over the golf course, it has allowed for consistent and quality greens coverage with minimal growth which is smooth and develops at the same pace as all the other greens.”

BASF Enquiry 53

Safe Weed Control by name and nature for contractors

As awareness of the hazards associated with glyphosate continues to grow across the globe, it is unsurprising that the number of commercial organisations switching to non-herbicidal weed control is on the rise.

Safe Weed Control, based on the outskirts of Auckland in New Zealand, was established to service vegetation clearance for a range of clients including those in environmentally sensitive areas, which they tackle with ease thanks to Foamstream. Owner of Safe Weed Control Matt Kirby was first introduced to Foamstream through his father, who was an early adopter of the technology, available from Weedingtech.

“I established Safe Weed Control four years ago after spotting a gap in the New Zealand market for clients who don’t want to be using chemical herbicides but aren’t necessarily sizeable enough to invest in their own Foamstream equipment” he explains. “It was the simplicity and effectiveness of the system really appealed to me.”

Foamstream kills unwanted vegetation including weeds, moss and algae using the precise application of hot water insulated by a biodegradable, organic, plant-based foam.

Delivered via a range of patented machinery, the retained heat from the water penetrates the

plant through the leaves and travels down the root, killing the weeds quickly and safely.

“We have an L12 and M1200 unit which we use on all of our jobs – everything from roads and verges, to boat ramps and retirement villages!

“The vast majority of our workload is in playgrounds and Foamstream is absolutely ideal for this purpose, preserving the aesthetic of the area with no harmful chemicals which children can potentially ingest.”

As well as killing the plant, Foamstream also sterilises surrounding seeds and spores, reducing future regrowth which

Greenor Gold Selective Herbicide

Designed for use on managed amenity turf, amenity grassland and lawns, Greenor Gold is a high-strength selective herbicide that requires only one application per year.

• Successful: Provides economical control of difficult weeds

• High-strength and targeted: Contains three proven active ingredients that target weeds from leaf to root

• Results: Achieves complete control of target weeds

• Cost and labour saving: Requires only one application per year

• Economical: Has an economical dosage rate and low water rates

• Selective herbicide: Safe on grass

Active ingredients: Fluroxypyr, Clopyralid, Florasulam

To find out more or to place an order, please call 0800 138 7222 or email sales@originamenity.com

When to apply

Between March and October when weeds are emerged and actively growing. Greenor Gold is rainfast within one hour and must be applied to established turf. Ideally avoid mowing and any grass maintenance 3 days prior and 3 days post-application.

Our brands:

results in fewer treatment cycles per year compared to other nonherbicidal methods of weed control such as burning or steam.

“We get fantastic results with this system, in all environments – including sensitive areas – and in all weathers, which is another major plus on the Foamstream system.” Matt continues, “In addition, the technical team at Weedingtech have always gone above and beyond. Despite the time difference, someone will tend to make themselves available and provide patient, knowledgeable and methodical advice when we’ve needed it.”

Weedingtech Enquiry 54

Training in Westermann machines for housing Association

In the heart of central and south west England, Bromford Housing stands as a centre of innovation and sustainable living, managing a staggering 40,000 homes with a dedicated focus on the wellbeing of its residents.

With a steadfast commitment to the environment and the “One Planet Living” principles, Bromford Housing’s journey toward a greener future led them to redefi ne their approach to moss and weed clearance.

Driven by the desire to reduce their chemical footprint and embrace eco-friendly solutions, Brian Mackay, the Landscaping Team Manager, highlighted their growing

need for environmentally conscious methods for their 50+ skilled landscapers and groundskeepers.

This call for change led them to look at Westermann, at a SALTEX show at the NEC, where innovation and environmentally friendly alternatives converged. A trip to the demo site in Sheffield opened up a world of possibilities. Here, the Bromford team performed application tests of Westermann’s machines, specifi cally designed to meet their unique challenges.

Recognising the benefits that Westermann’s range of

sweepers could offer, Bromford Housing placed an order that would radically change their landscape maintenance practices, reducing their chemical usage to near zero.

The order included the Westermann Ride-On Cleanmeleon 2, equipped with a 1000mm Wire Brush, catering to vast expanses and open spaces.

Additionally, they opted for four Westermann WR870 Pedestrian Moss Brushes, fi tted with an 870mm Wire Brush. These brushes were designed to handle both large and compact areas, ideal for spaces with limited access and constrained transport options.

ICL publishes Invasive Plants Guide

The models chosen are powered by premium Honda GX engines, designed to endure the rigors of heavy commercial use. However, their journey didn’t end thereacknowledging the importance of self-suffi ciency and optimal effi ciency, Bromford Housing collaborated with SPA to undergo comprehensive operator training.

In this undertaking, a comprehensive course was tailored to equip Bromford’s senior landscape team with the expertise needed to use and maintain the Westermann products effectively.

ICL has announced the launch of the Invasive Plants Guidea detailed and comprehensive resource for understanding and managing key invasive plants in the United Kingdom.

Encompassing over 150 pages, the Invasive Plants Guide provides crucial information about identifying, understanding, and sustainably managing 14 different types of invasive plants prevalent in the UK.

The varieties covered in the guide range from annuals such as Himalayan balsam and Smooth sowthistle to short-lived

perennials like Giant hogweed and Common ragwort, as well as long-lived perennials including Japanese knotweed and Bracken. Woody weeds and trees, such as Buddleja and Rhododendron, are also included.

The guide offers a thorough understanding of what constitutes an invasive plant and the problems they can pose. It delves into their growth and lifecycle, with a focus on how this knowledge can be applied for their sustainable control and management.

“The Invasives Plant Guide is a comprehensive resource that brings together information to aid in the identification, understanding, and sustainable management of invasive plants,” said Barry Browne, Landscape & Industrial Sales Manager from ICL.

“We believe that this guide will be an invaluable tool for all who are dealing with invasive species, from landscapers and gardeners to local authorities and land managers.”

ICL Enquiry 57

New Overtake spring clean for turf weeds

The new herbicide, Overtake, from Syngenta gives the chance to clean out broad-leaved weeds in turf this spring.

Now available for golf course, sports turf management and amenity areas in the UK, the unique combination of two herbicide actives gives consistently reliable results in more variable spring conditions, against a wide spectrum of problematic weeds.

Furthermore, Syngenta application trials have shown optimum results with Overtake from treatment at a water volume of just 200 l/ha, giving significant savings in time and reduced interruption in play, compared to herbicide treatments typically applied at 400 l/ha or more.

Syngenta Technical Manager, Sean Loakes, reported Overtake has shown outstanding turf safety in more than 70 trials across nine countries.

Trials at STRI recorded no adverse phytotoxic effects across 19 cultivars of all key coolseason turf grass species, even at more than double recommended application rate.

“Weeds compete with turf plants for light, moisture and nutrients. Removing weed competition early in the season ensures more of the inputs you put on are better utilised for turf growth – creating stronger more resilient turf and better playing conditions,” advocated Sean.

Overtake targets most of the problematic broad-leaved weeds in turf grass. Early treatment in the spring enables vigorous turf recovery to fi ll gaps and minimise risk of weed reinvasion. Overtake is a Syngenta optimised formulation to target broadleaved weeds.

To get the best from Overtake, Sean advised application in spring when weeds are actively growing and the leaves are dry. Treatment should be made at a rate of 2.0 l/ha, applied in 200 l/ha water volume, using XC025 or XC04 nozzles to better target the leaf area and minimise risk of drift. Turf should ideally be left for three days after application before mowing.

Overtake is approved for use in the UK on amenity grassland, managed amenity turf and lawns.

Syngenta Enquiry 60

SPA Power Machinery Enquiry 56

Padded straps now available on Cooper Pegler knapsacks

“This is a global initiative,” says Allan Wainwright, HozelockExel’s UK Sales Manager, “which aims to make our knapsack brands fully inclusive for all spray operatives.”

Weed removal without chemical

Bema’s latest sweeper - the Groby Light – which allows easy and effective weed removal without using chemicals, is proving extremely popular with local authorities, municipalities and their contractors.

The Groby Light can be fitted to a range of small carrier vehicles and offers a broad choice of brushes, from steel flat wire to PPN.

“There is growing pressure to remove weeds from the public realm without using chemicals, as they can pose of health risk to people, flora and fauna,” says Philip Bryant of Bema Sweepers UK.

Professional knapsack specialists

Cooper Pegler have introduced cushioned straps on more of its models to heighten operator comfort and limit body strain for operators.

Many of the go-to knapsacks across the popular brand include ergonomically tailored harnesses to channel loading forces in a way that limits stresses on the body.

The latest advance from manufacturer Hozelock-Exel, which follows extensive trialling, further enhances operator safety and protection to include cushioned strapping on Cooper Pegler’s Classic and Series 2000 knapsack models.

The cushioned strapping is introduced at a time when more sports venues and amenity sites are reducing the quantity of treatment liquids they apply in a bid to improve their green credentials.

Golf course greens teams report they are using knapsacks increasingly for spot-spray weed control, a practice that cuts the quantity of liquid applied significantly.

More knapsack hand spraying raises the importance of operator comfort to new levels, therefore.

“Those who spend a full day knapsack spraying will find the new cushioned straps more comfortable,” Allan adds, “reducing the stresses and strains possible on the body during extensive sessions in the field.”

Cooper Pegler Enquiry 61

Tackling the toughest tasks

The machine also features plasticcoated, steel flat wire tufts to remove weeds from gutters, joints and other hard-to-reach places.

“People who have attended recent demonstrations have all been impressed with the Bema Groby Light’s excellent features, its reliable and easy operation, and how it removes stubborn dirt and weeds.”

Bema Enquiry 63

Creating Gravelrings that save time and money

It’s a standard response that customers can’t afford to have a gravel driveway laid given that gravel grids are typically viewed as an extra expense.

Gravel experts Beauxfort wanted to challenge that thinking by providing an innovative Gravelrings product that saves end customers time and money. Gravelrings reduce the time spent preparing the ground and the need to excavate the soil as deep with a 25mm grid depth. The strain on profit margins lessens because the panels need less stone to fill them than alternative systems.

Furthermore, installation is made faster by the grids arriving at the site in 1sqm tiles with a firm clipping mechanism to join them together.

Alan Duguid Beauxfort’s Business Development Manager states: “With materials

skyrocketing it means a muchneeded opportunity to claw back margin on labour, Contractors need more options to surprise and delight their customers now more than ever.”

Gravelrings was designed to lock into the system to prevent gravel migration, even on sloped landscapes. This ensures gravel cannot mine its way beneath the panels because the one-piece moulded mesh base keeps the grids from lifting.

In addition, air circulates throughout the system breaking down silts and fines to stop weeds from growing.

Customers need certainty in these uncertain economic times, beginning with the product and innovation available on the market.

Beauxfort Enquiry 64

The UR101CX1 LXT 36V Brush Cutter and UR201CX1 LXT 36V Linetrimmer are amongst the most powerful of Makita’s cordless range.

These 1kW high-power machines are a must in any landscaper’s toolkit. Powered by Makita’s 36V portable power pack, these tools feature three electronic speeds and a reverse switch to ensure easy removal of grass clippings.

The UR101CX1 and UR201CX1 also feature Makita’s Automatic Torque Drive Technology (ADT)

that automatically adjusts the cutting speed according to the load conditions.

To protect the machine during use and ensure optimal performance, these machines have a high cooling capacity that suppresses heat generation of the controller and motor.

Further to this, Active Feedback Sensing Technology (AFT) adds additional protection by shutting down the tool if the rotation speed suddenly slows, preventing overload and kickback.

Makita Enquiry 62

The SISIS Osca – perfect for synthetic surface maintenance

Synthetic sports surfaces require a good maintenance programme in place from the very beginning.

Failure to maintain the surface could lead to issues such as compaction, loss of porosity, inconsistent playing characteristics, damaged fibres and contamination of the infill.

One machine that is being used by many groundstaff is the SISIS Osca tractor mounted powered oscillating brush, which is ideally suited to either a sand or rubber crumb surface.

A pair of oscillating brushes allows periodic aggressive brushing to be undertaken to

agitate the upper infill level helping reduce compaction, encourage the fibres to stand upright and reduce the risk of contamination and surface water.

It can also be used for regular light brushing, helping to stand the fibres up, move the infill around, creating a level surface and minimise the threat of moss and algae.

It uses fewer passes than a conventional drag brush, and has the option of adding a further 1.8m wide brush to the system which helps to enhance the final finish.

Once Warwick School had decided to invest in a new

synthetic pitch, Grounds Manager Duncan Toon felt that the SISIS Osca was the only machine that could maintain the new surface effectively and truly justify the major investment decision: “With the investment which has been made into the synthetic surface, I felt that we needed to have the best equipment to maintain it, and for me, the Osca was essential.

“It is clear to see that the de-compaction this machine achieves is simply on a different level. Since we have been using it the pitch has significantly improved.

Another user full of praise

is Andy Jackson, grounds manager at Stoke City FC, who has reported ‘phenomenal’ results since incorporating the SISIS Osca into his synthetic surface maintenance programme.

“Getting the right equipment for all the different textured pitches we have here is big task, and it’s key to how we go about our business,” says Andy. “I wanted a machine that was going to be effective and quick but to get a machine to do those two things I felt would be a hard task.

“The Oscillating brushes are the best feature because they get rid of any compaction

passion for the profession

problems and provide a fantastic finish.

“Players at all levels, from seven year olds up to the first team, play on these pitches, so for me it is just important to have the synthetic surfaces as

well presented as the natural pitches. The results have been phenomenal and personally I think the Osca ticks all the boxes in getting synthetic turf to a level where it needs to be.”

SISIS Enquiry

66

Speed-Clean provides fast clearance of surface debris

The Speed-Clean from Redexim is a land-driven surface sweeper which efficiently lifts and separates infill and contaminants in a single pass. It is important that surface cleaning takes place as soon as any material is present on the top of the carpet.

If left, allowing the debris to be broken down and trodden into the carpet, bigger problems with drainage and compromised play performance and safety are likely to follow.

The paddle brush system of the Speed-Clean effectively

lifts the infill from the surface, where detritus is separated via an oscillating sieve and collected in bins on the rear of the unit. The cleaned infill is then returned to the surface, restoring a carpets permeability and playability.

Available in 1m and 1.7m working widths to suit facilities of all sizes, the machine also features integrated tines to aid decompaction while the rear brush preens the surface to leave an aesthetically pleasing finish.

Redexim Enquiry 69

Powerful blowers and brushes from Ventrac

Demonstrating its versatility, the Ventrac 4520 compact tractor has a couple of powerful blowers and brush attachment that are ideal for the landscaper, estate manager or contracting business.

The Ventrac KA160 Power Blower features a vertical shaft design that delivers powerful, yet quiet performance.

The blower housing can be rotated 180 degrees in the horizontal axis allowing the operator to move debris in the desired direction without hindering operation.

Two guide wheels maintain a consistent distance from the surface to maximise operational efficiency. This blower can be used to remove leaves, light snow, water and other debris.

The Ventrac ET202 Turbine blower makes quick work of any clean up job and is designed to move large volumes of air and is much quieter than conventional debris blowers.

The powerful front discharge nozzle can be hydraulically

rotated through 360 degrees from the operator’s seat enabling clean-up work to be done simply, quietly, and efficiently.

Group course manager at The Club Company Chris Brook says: “Considering the Ventrac tractor unit is less than 25hp, it

is remarkably powerful and can go anywhere. The Power Blower attachment is excellent; unlike a lot of blowers that change the direction of the vortex through a vertical axis, in an up-andover action, this works in a 180° horizontal axis, which enables more control over the direction

SCH cleans up with robust machine

Since 1986, SCH Supplies have been dedicated to building machinery specifically for groundskeepers.

Their product range fits perfectly between domestic garden products and heavy industrial farm machinery.

The TS98 lawn sweeper collector collects leaves, cut grass and lawn debris. It is robust in construction to withstand prolonged heavy use.

A differential mechanism allows the sweeper to be manoeuvred in tight corners without the wheels “scuffing”. The differential mechanism also allows both

ground wheels to drive the pick-up brushes giving it superior sweeping power.

The height adjustment is simple, allowing it to be used on many different surfaces. The main drive is transmitted via strong metal gears.

The large capacity solid plastic catcher is rot and tear-proof and straightforward to empty. Reversing onto the tipping heap can be difficult for some, but it is made easier with the TS98 as it only has two wheels in contact with the ground.

SCH Supplies Enquiry 71

of the material being dispersed. It’s great when blowing leaves from greens and, being out-front, visibility is second to none.”

Demonstrating the versatility of Ventrac, it’s possible to swap out the blowers and in less than a couple of minutes attach the

Price Turfcare Enquiry 70

Even more choice of machines from Makita

Power tool manufacturer Makita has expanded its range of 18V LXT cordless garden maintenance machines further with new product launches, including an 18V LXT blower.

The versatile DUB187 Brushless LXT Blower, which features both blower and vacuum functions, has a variable speed trigger control plus a cruise control for ease of operation. In blower mode the DUB187 produces a maximum air volume of 4.2 m3 /min with an air velocity of up to 64m/sec. As a vacuum to pick up leaves and garden debris, the DUB187 has a maximum air volume of 6.1 m3 /min, benefits from a 25 litre collection bag and

Profihopper - the preferred choice

Mow Scarify Collect Mulch Roll

features a metal shredder blade on the fan for mulching. For easy and comfortable use, the DUB187 also features top and rear handles as well as a shoulder strap and two casters on the blower/vacuum nozzle for ease of movement.

Makita Enquiry 72

Wet or dry grass, long or short, collect or mulch, the PH 1250 and PH 1500 models take it all in their stride. And it’s that flexibility that sets the Profihopper apart from the crowd.

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

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

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

Contact the Amazone Team on: 01302 755 725.

KJ520 Narrow Broom, which is designed for sweeping and removal of material such as snow, leaves, dirt, light gravel, and even thatch. It is designed to fit narrow walkways 1.22 metres wide.

STIHL launches backpack cordless blower

STIHL has launched its first cordless backpack blower for professional users, offering high performance and a significantly less disruptive sound thanks to its innovative STIHL Noise Reduction System.

With a maximum blowing force of 26 newton, STIHL’s new BGA 300 cordless backpack blower is the most powerful in the STIHL cordless range and features a high air speed to ensure even wet, heavy autumn leaves can be cleared quickly and efficiently. The new cordless blower is powered using STIHL’s professional AP System AR 2000 L or AR 3000 L backpack batteries.

Thanks to the STIHL Noise Reduction System, the BGA 300 produces fewer high pitch

Cramer delivers exceptional power and airflow

The Cramer range of 82V battery blowers, designed specifically for the professional market, effortlessly remove leaves, grass cuttings, sand, dirt and rubbish from pavements and surfaces.

Cramer blowers are available in standard format and backpack versions, all with Cramer’s 82V brushless digital motor which delivers exceptional power and airflow.

The two standard blowers are both lightweight (2.5kg) and feature low vibration levels. The 82B16 Leaf Blower has an air speed of 56m/2 and airflow of 650m3/h. For a more powerful option, the 82B22 Leaf Blower has an air speed of 62m/2 and

airflow of 1285m3/h, plus it has the added benefits of cruise control and a boost feature.

Cramer ergonomic backpack blowers have been designed for larger areas. The blowers feature dual battery slots integrated into the backpack harness to extended runtimes with an automatic switchover. The 82B1300 has a 69m/s airspeed and 1300 m3/h airflow, whilst the 82B26 reaches airspeeds of 86.9m/s and 1172 m3/h airflow. Both can clear large areas such as parking lots, sports facilities or urban areas quickly and efficiently while optimising operator comfort.

Cramer 82V technology rivals an equivalent 50cc petrol blower yet

has significantly lower running and ownership costs, making it a viable option for any professional user or business.

As well as the cost and performance benefits, the Cramer 82V range offers additional safety in the workplace, with low vibration, low noise, and zero emissions or harmful fumes for the operator when working.

As part of the Cramer 82V professional line-up, the battery in the Cramer blowers is interchangeable in any of the 82V range from lawnmowers, hedge trimmers and brush cutters.

Cramer Enquiry 75

frequencies often associated with cordless blowers, meaning operation is much more pleasant and less intrusive for bystanders.

Thanks to this, the BGA 300 is well suited for use in noisesensitive areas such as schools, parks or around public amenities.

The maximum blowing force can be selected from three power setting options via the selector switch, allowing for efficient energy management and longer runtimes. Boost mode may also be selected to provide maximum power for the toughest clearing jobs. Furthermore, the new cordless blower features an LED power display and cruise control function to enable simple energy management and comfort.

For the optimum blowing angle, the BGA 300 boasts a curved

nozzle as standard, and the blower tube length can easily be adjusted to meet different requirements and operating situations. A straight nozzle is also available as an accessory.

The BGA 300 is exceptionally easy to handle thanks to its slim design and comfortable carrying system that optimally distributes the weight of the backpack device and reduces the strain on the user when used for long periods.

Other features include wide feet for secure footing whilst on the ground, a hook for the blower tube for easy transport and storage, as well as compatibility with the Smart Connector 2 A.

STIHL Enquiry 74

Westermann gives users the power

The professional range of Westermann power cleaning machines are designed for landscapers, grounds maintenance and facilities management.

Westermann’s moss brushers, weed rippers, scrapers and sweepers with ride-on and pedestrian options help maintain weed-free and moss-free facilities and get to work on all types of hard landscaped areas: block paving, verges, carparks, driveways and pavements.

Weed rippers include the new WKB330, a smaller version of the larger 660 model and available as a battery powered option for environmentally sensitive areas.

Lightweight and very portable it features the same heavy-duty rotating brushes as the larger model. It works fully to the edges of walls and curbs, using the guard side flap to clean-up close to edges.

The innovative brush technology is powerful enough for the toughest weeds while gentle enough for delicate paving. The braids apply even pressure, which means there are no scratches to the surface. Its sweeping principle guarantees all edges and corners are cleaned thoroughly, something most other producers consider a challenge.

Westermann Enquiry 78

Arisings are vacuum packed into 2,500 litre or 4,500 litre tanks with infinite high dump facility up to 2.1 m. Class leading H&S credentials, suited equally to undulations and the flat.

Aptly

Professional solutions for unwanted surface debris

Precision clean-up from Turfco

Turfco’s Torrent 2 is powerful all-purpose blower, available in tow-behind or tractormounted pto-driven formats and delivering unprecedented control over air speed, air direction, noise management and fuel consumption.

This is a precision clean-up tool that can used year-round taking golf courses or grounds to a new level.

Built on a heavy-duty frame with a rugged draw bar and adjustable hitch the Torrent 2 is designed for durability. The one-piece nozzle is made of impact resistant, roto-moulded polyethylene. The enclosed deck dramatically reduces debris pickup from below the blower, decreasing wear on the turbine and minimising overall dust and debris around the operator.

The wireless controller technology allows the operator to dial in the exact nozzle direction for optimal performance with fast, 360-degree nozzle rotation. Multiple air speed settings make it quick and easy to increase or decrease blowing force, while a dedicated button allows the operator to idle down when people are near. The controller also features a shutdown switch that stops the engine at the press of a button.

An optional auxiliary control kit is available should the wireless controller be lost or damaged. The operator simply flips a switch from wireless to auxiliary and can then control the machine’s speed and direction.

Turfco Enquiry 79

Less thatch as club secures Terra Rake

Linlithgow Golf Club has taken delivery of a 2.3 m width Wiedenmann Terra Rake, from Wiedenmann UK’s Scottish dealer, Fairways GM at Kinross. Course Manager, Phil Montgomery had been eyeing one up for a while.

“The rake pulls up a terrific amount of thatch,” he explains “Take the day it arrived; the difference it made to the practice ground in one session was amazing: just so much. Over the next few years, it will enhance the entire site.

“We plan to attack the moss there head-on with the Terra Rake on a regular basis. Even though we rota-knife and spike them, until now the surface tension is just too much.

Trilo delivers years of reliability for

Whether it’s for the collection of grass clippings or debris following scarification, or out on hire during autumn’s leaf fall season, Fineturf have got a Trilo machine for the job.

Fineturf

“The rake will help alleviate that problem and sort them out.”

Beyond the fairways, Phil has an ever-growing list of duties lined up for his new kit addition which means it will be in use all year-round.

“I like the versatility of the rake; it’s great value. I’ve seen it take on many different jobs on YouTube and Twitter. It will be good for standing the grass up prior to cutting, we will use it for presentation and once our new tractor- mounted blower arrives, we will use it for rough management, thinning out and tidying up.”

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It’s more than 25 years since Owner Simon Hutton purchased his first refurbished Trilo and, more than two decades on, that SG700 continues to deliver reliable service alongside more than 20 other vacuum units from across the Trilo range.

Simon explains: “Over the businesses we have an SG700, an SG1165, four SG1100’s, 11 SG400’s, an S3, two S4’s and an S12 – all purchased at

different times when workload has demanded the investment.

“The higher capacity machines such as the S12 and SG1100’s are used primarily for grass collection and large scale clearance work such as postconcert clean-ups.

The mid-sized and smaller units including the SG700 with its 7m3 capacity are used for contracting and contract hire – vacuuming after koroing, or after scarifying cricket outfields for example.

“We see a big spike in hire requests from sports venues, golf clubs and local authorities when the leaves start to drop.

“The Trilo range being so straight forward to set-up is ideal to go out in those instances, where multiple operators can get stuck in,

clear large areas and achieve a great finish.”

Vanmac Enquiry 81

Make light work of leaf clearance

Brush and collect leaves and other debris such as pine needles, cores and grass clippings efficiently on a variety of natural and hard surfaces using our range of brushes and sweepers.

The Turf Tidy 2300, 3000 and Top Brush 6000Discover the Redexim solution.