Professional Groundscare March 2024

Dates for #GroundsWeek 2024 announced by the GMA

The Grounds Management Association (GMA) has announced that its annual awareness campaign, #GroundsWeek, is returning from 18 – 24 March 2024.

The campaign, now in its fourth year, recognises the work of turf care volunteers and professionals in the UK, with a focus on inspiring new recruits to consider a career in the industry.

Research carried out by the GMA over recent years has highlighted a potential employment crisis, with a lack of new recruits entering the industry and a significant number of existing workers leaving. It’s not all doom and gloom, however, as research carried out in 2023 revealed that more young people are working in the grounds management sector than in previous years.

Grounds staff under the age of 35 now make up 27% of the workforce compared to 19% in 2022. There has also been an increase from 3% to 5% in the number of grounds managers aged 24 and under, and an increase in the percentage of grounds managers stating that they became involved in grounds management due to apprenticeships from 13% to 16%.

The number of people who became involved in the grounds sector ‘by accident’ has also reduced from 13% to 10%.

The GMA’s ‘Sport’s Hidden Profession’ report in 2010 recorded that nearly 20% of grounds staff became involved by accident, therefore significantly more people are now making a conscious decision to pursue a career in grounds management. This change highlights that the

grounds care sector is becoming increasingly recognised as a viable career route which other GMA initiatives, like the Grounds Management Framework, support by providing a key path of development for those looking to progress in the sector.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, says: “A key part of our role advocating for the industry and our members is laying the foundations for new talent to enter the sector. It’s hugely encouraging to see, after three years, and lots of hard work introducing the sector to new audiences, that the number of young people entering the sector is starting to rise.

“There’s still a lot of work to be done, but initiatives like #GroundsWeek can

have a really important role in encouraging more people to consider working in our wonderful industry. To help raise awareness and make as much noise as possible, we’re encouraging grounds staff and

sports clubs across the country to engage with the campaign online and celebrate the vital contribution of grounds staff in making sport possible.”

GMA Enquiry 42

Husqvarna extends professional robotic mower range

addition to the family of wire-free professional robotic mowers.

Using systematic cutting, the mower delivers high productivity and a cost-effective solution to smaller commercial areas. As an added bonus, it can cut patterns. The robotic mower will be available in 2024.

Since the introduction of robotic mowers, customers have asked for the possibility of cutting patterns in the lawn. Now, using systematic cutting, the new Automower 520 EPOS can mow in a series of preset designs that deliver a variety of patterns such as checkerboard, triangles, or diamond shapes.

The patterns are made possible by the robotic mower’s precision navigation and ability to quickly adjust the cutting height of its five-blade cutting discs. In addition, the new robotic mower’s mowing capacity is 5,000 sqm in 48 hours.

As with all EPOS navigated robotic mowers from Husqvarna, this model operates without boundary wire, which makes the installation robust and flexible. The use of virtual boundaries allows aerating, scarifying, and

digging without worrying about in-ground wires.

With EPOS, and the connected management system Husqvarna Fleet Services, the user has an ultra-flexible solution that facilitates scheduling and setting of cutting zones, which for instance enables stay-out zones during pollinating season. The Fleet Services application also allows the user to set mowing patterns as well as other hardware settings and software upgrades.

Husqvarna Enquiry 43

STIHL launches new batterypowered brushcutters

STIHL has launched two new AP System battery-powered brushcutters with enhanced operational performance, specifically designed for professionals to tackle large areas of tough grass.

Replacing the FSA 90 model, the new FSA 120 and FSA 120 R boast an impressive 40% increase in power, making them the ideal choice for professionals undertaking landscaping projects. The FSA 120 is available with a bike handle or loop handle (R) to best suit customer requirements. Thanks to the utilisation of the same gearbox used in STIHL petrol tools, the new brushcutters are compatible with a wide range of cutting attachments, including AutoCut, PolyCut, DuroCut and TrimCut cutting heads, as well as metal

grass blades for greater versatility and longer working times.

The FSA 120 offers flexibility with two-speed settings and a variable trigger, enabling users to adapt to different cutting requirements with ease. Not only do both brushcutter models feature an innovative ECO mode that reduces RPM to maximise working time, but they also automatically adapt their speed (in level 2) for optimum performance. With line head RPM at 7,800 and metal blade RPM at 9,700, professional users can trust in consistent, efficient results. Other features include a tool-free adjustable loop handle (FSA 120 R) for easy adjustment and maximum comfort, as well as an adjustable harness hook that allows users to move the attachment points along the shaft quickly and simply.

The STIHL FSA 120 and FSA 120 R are ideal for use with the powerful AP 300 S Lithium-Ion battery, STIHL’s high-capacity battery, which offers up to 100 minutes of working time on a single charge when used with a metal cutting blade.

STIHL Enquiry 46

Kress is leading the charge with breakthrough innovation in battery-powered technology, built to deliver the performance and power of petrol. Committed to ensuring the groundskeeping and landscape maintenance industry a zero-emission future, Kress’s unique battery technology makes the transition from petrol to battery-powered outdoor power equipment sustainable, with benefits both for the environment and the users.

Kress has a legacy of excellence and innovation that spans over five decades. This long history of innovation has earned Kress a

strong reputation for reliability, quality, and sets industry-leading standards. This legacy speaks to Kress’s track record of delivering cutting-edge cordless solutions, without compromising on power.

The Kress range of commercial outdoor power equipment, combined with the remarkable Kress 8-minute CyberSystem batteries, delivers unparalleled power in record time. It’s a revolutionary achievement that establishes a groundbreaking standard for commercial equipment, and it is the gateway to transitioning to zeroemission landscaping.

Kress has an innovative range of robotic mowers. The Kress RTKn robot mowers efficiently operate in parallel lines and autonomously move from an area to another as if they were driven by humans, with no need for boundary wires, or on-site aerials. It’s like having an extra seasoned groundskeeper on your team.

Kress is also launching their much-anticipated expansion to the commercial range, set to arrive in Spring.

Kress Enquiry 45

Load up with Makita

As part of the expansion of its LXT cordless range, Makita has unveiled the DCU602 four-wheeled battery-powered wheelbarrow, which boasts an increased maximum load capacity of up to 300kg on flat ground. The DCU602 wheelbarrow is

powered by two 18V LXT Li-Ion batteries in series, but up to four can be used if a longer runtime is required – of up to 100 minutes, where the operator can switch to the second pair of batteries when the first pair are depleted. The model is equipped with a dump

bucket which can be operated electronically or manually. Easily controlled, the wheelbarrow has three forward speeds – 1.5, 3.5 and 5 km/h – and one reverse; and is equipped with electric and electromagnetic brakes on top of a hand lever operated mechanical brake. A swivel lock also fixes the direction of the rear tyres. In addition, the DCU602 features head and taillights, as well as a warning beeper and level gauge.

Compared to petrol-powered alternatives, the DCU602 offers equivalent power – without the exhaust fumes and CO2 emissions – and is also silent running. The brushless motor is long-life and maintenance free and a battery protection circuit protects against overloading, over-discharging and over-heating.

Makita Enquiry 47

Craigmillar Park praise for Trilo M3

The M3 Multipurpose from Trilo has been praised by the team at Craigmillar Park Golf Club in Edinburgh for the labour savings it has brought to the effective management of their eco rough and quick clearance of leaves and debris.

The unit, delivered by Sherriff Golf & Turf, arrived just in time for a busy autumn and winter season but Golf Course Manager Stephen Sinclair is delighted to discover the versatility of the M3 will make it a machine for all seasons.

Like most parkland courses, Stephen and the team of three face the yearly challenge of managing leaf fall, with their previous method of cutting and mulching the material no longer providing a viable solution.

“From the first day, it has really impressed,” explains Stephen.

“We took delivery of the M3 in early November and it worked virtually non-stop for a month, removing leaves from all areas around the course –including bunkers where we can

simply suck them up with the Wanderhose rather than having to manually blow them out and then go along and collect them. The members noticed straight away the difference in both presentation and playability.

“We then saw the potential for using the M3 for cutting down our eco roughs and the results we’ve had here are outstanding! We have some areas of pretty heavy growth, but the flail shaft took these in its stride and the cleanliness of collection is head and shoulders above anything we’ve used before.”

The M3 Multipurpose from the Trilo range of vacuum collectors is a versatile one-pass machine for effective sweeping, scarification or cut and collection. Featuring the handheld Wanderhose, a high working speed and working width of 1.5m, the M3 is a popular compact unit finding year-round applications on sports turf and tasks around the golf course.

Vanmac

Enquiry 51

J Premier Pitch proves to be a game-changer

J Premier Pitch from Johnsons Sports Seed has been described as a ‘game-changer’ for Northampton Saints Rugby Club, delivering outstanding resilience, weartolerance and overall turf quality at both the stadium and new high performance training centre.

As one of just three clubs in the Premiership with an all-natural pitch, expectations and demands on the turf are high – but with the right seed, feed and maintenance programme in place, the team lead by Head Groundsman Andrew Miller are delivering on every front.

The cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens has been the stage for a strong season for Northampton Saints, leading rugby union’s top division at the time of writing. Ensuring the aforementioned stage is set is Andrew and a team of three.

Andrew has been using the 100% perennial ryegrass mixture for the last nine years. The new 2024 formulation blends five top-rated cultivars to create the ideal winter sport mix, incorporating Monroe

and Gildara for significantly improved resistance to Brown Patch and other common turf diseases.

Trusted by many of Europe’s leading stadia, J Premier Pitch delivers proven play performance and outstanding visual merit.

“The turf quality and quick establishment have surpassed our expectations, vitally important with the small windows we’re given to grow the pitch back in after concert season,” he said. “It gives us more than just a great density of sward with vibrant green colour which looks fantastic in a stadium - the resilience and recovery is outstanding, particularly during intense periods of play and the bad weather we endure through the winter months.”

Besides the stadium, J Premier Pitch was also used on the replica stadium pitch at the club’s High Performance Centre – upgraded during the summer of 2022 and officially unveiled in April 2023.

Johnsons Sports Seed Enquiry 52

Osca 3 elevates synthetic maintenance

James Mathewson, Head Groundsperson at Colliers Park National Football Development Centre in Wrexham, has found a game-changer in the Syn-Pro by SISIS Osca 3 for the upkeep of their synthetic pitch.

Colliers Park boasts state-ofthe-art facilities dedicated to football development. Among its features is a full-sized synthetic pitch, a crucial asset for training and matches.

The introduction of the Osca 3 marked a turning point in their synthetic maintenance strategy.

James elaborates, “We identified the Osca as a power brush that could reduce the de-compaction for us, keep the rubber crumb distributed, and keep the pitch in a good overall condition.”

The Syn-Pro by SISIS Osca 3 is a tractor mounted powered oscillating brush with a 1.9 meter working width and is equally effective when used on synthetic turf with sand or rubber infill.

The two oscillating brushes stand the carpet fibres up and redistributes the infill evenly, minimising compaction on the surface and improving its performance – giving consistent playing characteristics while preventing pile damage caused by reduced infill levels.

One of the significant advantages James highlights is the flexibility the Osca 3 provides. The Osca’s oscillating brush, a unique feature, sets it apart from other models and plays a crucial role.

SISIS Enquiry 54

Redexim Top-Brush proves transformational

Initially purchased to overcome conditions described as a ‘worm cast factory’, a Redexim TopBrush is proving to be a true multi-tasker for the team at Malton & Norton Golf Club.

Head Greenkeeper Richard Jacques admits that prior to the purchase, the club underestimated how fundamental the 6m wide brush would become to the maintenance, with it successfully removing organic matter, improving cut quality and boosting presentation in twice weekly passes around the 27-hole complex.

At 6m wide, the Top-Brush is a highly productive maintenance solution. As well as changing brush direction, working depth can also be adjusted, making it a versatile tool for a light surface

brush – suitable for clearing dew, incorporating topdressing material or removing clippings - or a deeper, more aggressive surface agitation to effectively rid large areas of organic matter.

“Having used the Top-Brush for over a year, we’re now in a position of managing worm casts preventatively – by reducing OM and improving density – resulting in fewer instances, which is a big positive,” Richard said.

“That’s on top of hugely elevating the turf quality and appearance, not just on fairways but also approaches and semirough which is giving us a better product in the summer and one that’s more resilient to host play going into the winter months.”

Redexim

Enquiry 56

Using Attraxor for Poa annua seedhead control

The

Chris Wood, Course Manager, heard about Attraxor’s ability to reduce Poa seedheads through fellow course managers and decided to try it on his greens on a trial basis.

Having just completed his first full year of treatment with the plant growth regulator (PGR), he believes it has had a high-quality impact on the greens at Shipley.

Chris said: “I mix 375 grams of Attraxor with 2 kilograms of nitrogen on the greens every 21 days, a routine which has resulted in reduced Poa seedheads and increased growth regulation. I was very impressed with the speed in which it gets working.”

Attraxor is formulated for rapid foliar uptake, as the active PGR ingredient, prohexadione, can

get to work in as quickly as four hours post-application. The active substance inhibits the gibberellic acid pathway, resulting in a reduction of turf height and turf biomass. Although it can still be applied in cooler soil conditions of around seven degrees centigrade, the key time to treat turf is March through to September for best results. Chris has been using Attraxor during this main season to support turf growth.

Chris said: “Alongside the decreased Poa, I have also noticed that the grass sward is smoother, resulting in a truer ball roll and increased playability –which is a bonus.”

Attraxor can also decrease time and money spent on turf maintenance due to its ability to regulate longitudinal turf growth, lessening the frequency of mowing and clipping volumes.

BASF

Enquiry 55

passion for the profession

Midlands Grounds Maintenance Roadshow 2024

Green-tech helps EMR Metal Recycling increase Biodiversity

European Metal Recycling (EMR), a global leader in metal recycling, worked with grounds maintenance contractor Glendale to provide landscape and green space management for its rewilding initiative at the stateof-the-art site in Oldbury.

The EMR environmental project, which covers 3ha of land, will create a biodiversity increase at the Oldbury site of 95%, ensuring greater protection of the environment, and preservation and enhancement of key habitats.

The initiative included the sowing of approximately 1000m2 of John Chambers Heritage Dual purpose and John Chamber Impact Violet Heart mix 100%.

The 5kg of seed comprised a mix of native and nectar-rich annuals and perennials.

The area of previously rough ground was seeded in May

It’s Spring sowing season

Sow

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2023 using a mix devised by EMR Environmental Specialist

Aaron Roberts. The Cornfield Annual species came through quickly to give an initial burst of colour, while the slower-growing perennials are all establishing, ready to spring forth from Spring 2024 (Year 2) onwards.

John Chambers Wildflower

Seed has a 40-year history of supplying British native wildflower seed and mixes across the UK. A brand of Green-tech, John Chambers Wildflower Seed is one of the leading authorities on native wildflower seed, distributing a comprehensive range of products that protect, enhance, and improve the landscape environment.

In addition, a variety of 100 native saplings and trees and species-rich hedgerows were planted to improve the overall habitat and absorb 35 tonnes of

carbon per annum into the new biomass growing on our site.

A mixture of grass seeds and different varieties of flowers will be grown, as well as ongoing management of the woodland area to allow other species to flourish.

Deric Newman, Head of Development, Estate Services at Glendale comments, “We used John Chambers as they have a reputation for being the best in the market for wildflower and grass seed.

Delivery was very efficient and on time with the annual species making an appearance quickly. Overall, I am very happy and can’t wait to see the perennials come through in the spring.”

Green-Tech Enquiry 60

Club’s wildflower success with Colour Boost

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Droitwich, Worcestershire, Gaudet Luce Golf Club has embarked on an impressive wildflower project under the guidance of Course Manager Andy Laing.

The stunning results achieved can be attributed to the use of DLF’s Colour Boost range, demonstrating the positive impact it can have on both the golfing experience and the local environment.

This carefully crafted mixture of wildflowers and garden flowering species not only enhances visual appeal but also supports local wildlife and restores critical habitats.

Ideal for landscaping projects, the Colour Boost range is designed to bring colour, biodiversity, and interest to any space.

Among the varieties in the Colour Boost range, Andy opted for the Chameleon mixture for Gaudet Luce’s wildflower project. Comprising over 40 species and

subspecies, this dynamic blend ensures a constantly changing display of colours and forms throughout the growing season. It has proven to be a consistent performer, offering a dazzling showfromspringtoNovember.

Andy said: “The abundance of bees and insects has been phenomenal.” Leaving the wildflowers, once they had stopped flowering, over winter also proved effective, attracting birds to feed on the leftovers. Customer feedback has been exceptional, with visitors now expecting and appreciating the vibrant wildflower displays as an integral part of the golfing experienceatGaudetLuce.”

DLF Enquiry 62

Clean and green mowing

Developments continue apace in ride-on mowers, with leaner running at the core, reports Jane Carley.

Economy and emissions are high on the priority list for purchasers of ride-on mowers. An increasing choice of battery powered models is now available, with battery technology improvements offering run-time and outputs that are viable for commercial operation.

Toro’s electric machines use smart controls to optimise energy consumption, ensuring efficient utilisation throughout the day, while real-time monitoring via the InfoCentre keeps operators informed of battery status.

Electric mowers offer significant long-term savings compared to traditional diesel-powered models, Toro points out, with no motor oil, spark plugs, or filters to change.

Toro

Manufacturers also point to significant savings in whole life costs for battery powered equipment with fewer service items, offsetting an initial steep purchase cost. Some companies will do the calculations for you, helping to make an informed decision.

Where diesel or petrol power is the preference, the latest engine technology and other design updates such as compacting clippings on collector mowers offer significant advances in efficiency.

The industry’s first all-electric out-front rotary mower, the Toro Groundsmaster e3200 features the same rugged chassis, commercial-grade mowing deck and operator controls as its predecessor, the Groundsmaster 3200, powered by 17 HyperCell batteries.

The patent pending lithiumion technology incorporates a management system designed to deliver consistent performance across the life of the machine.

With a 1.52m cutting deck, the e3200 is said to be capable of mowing up to 2.4ha/hr with working speeds up to 20kph.

As the industry continues to embrace electrification, the Toro Groundsmaster e3200 serves as a prime example of how sustainability and financial viability can go hand in hand. By prioritising both environmental impact and costeffectiveness, businesses can not only reduce their carbon footprint but also bolster their bottom line in the process.

Kubota introduced the Ze electric Zero-Turn range in November 2023. At the heart of the Ze is a 48V/10kW battery, offering a mowing capacity of 15000m2. The battery pack can be quickly and easily removed, and another fully charged battery fitted – with recharging done via the charge connector on the Ze, or independently via a charger compatible with UK and European sockets. A full battery recharge takes approximately five hours.

The Ze-421 is fitted with a 1.05m side discharge mower deck and is equipped with K-sense, which continuously monitors deck cutting speed to increase or decrease to suit conditions. A mulching kit is also available.

EGO Power Plus is expanding its battery powered ride-on range with two new tractor mowers.

The twin-blade tractor mowers utilise up to six EGO ARC Lithium 56V portable batteries, providing the same power and performance as the equivalent petrol machines.

Using EGO’s portable batteries enables the user to tailor the amount of capacity they use, giving them flexibility with run-time, cost, and usage in other EGO tools in the range.

Vince Brauns, Group Product Director at EGO, said:

“Following the success of our zero-turn Z6 range, we wanted to introduce more mowers to ensure we could deliver a product for every user’s needs. The new EGO

ride-on tractors set the standard in battery-powered collection and side-discharge mowers. Users can now cut substantially sized lawns in comfort and with complete confidence in battery longevity.”

The new range includes the TR3800E-B 98cm ride-on collection tractor mower and the TR4200E 107cm ride-on side discharge version. Both come with powerful twin blades and pressed steel decks.

The

SF range of powerful 22.5-49hp diesel engine mowers enable you to mow your grass whatever the weather keeping the same pristine finish

Kubota

Ride on Mowers

The mowers feature a front mounting that can house up to six EGO batteries and features the company’s Peak Power technology, enabling the machine to draw on the power from all batteries at once. Both models come with the CHV1600E, a 1600W fast charger that fully charges six 10Ah EGO 56V ARC Lithium batteries in as little as three hours.

An LCD control display centrally mounted on the dashboard enables quick and easy adjustments to both travel and blade speeds as well as providing real time data on battery capacity.

A spring-assisted adjuster with eight pre-sets provide cutting heights of 25mm to 100mm. In addition, Bluetooth connectivity enables the user to remotely monitor machine performance and ensure that batteries are charged and ready for cutting.

Driver comfort includes an adjustable spring suspension seat and large, wide tyres which ensure both a smoother ride,

added grip and better weight distribution to protect lawn integrity. LED headlights enable safe use in low-light conditions while a front bumper helps protect the chassis from potential impact damage.

The TR3800E-B 98cm ride-on collection tractor mower has collection or mulch capabilities, with a 300-litre collection box to maximise cutting times. Large handles make removing and replacing the box easy, while a single level makes emptying the collection box quick and simple.

The TR4200E ride-on side discharge tractor mower offers even greater productivity when grass collection is not required. It can cover up to two acres on a single charge and has an enhanced 107cm cutting width.

Petrol and diesel choices

Getting more out of one machine is another route to efficiency and Amazone’s Profihopper range is designed to carry out a wide

range of tasks such as cut and collect, scarifying, wild flower meadow maintenance, spring bulb top clearing, autumn leaf collection as well as cut and drop mowing. The PH1250 and PH1500 models in 1.25m and 1.5m working widths feature the PowerCompactor collecting and conveying system, which uses longitudinal and cross conveyors to handle large volumes of wet grass, ideal for less frequent mowing regimes.

A fine turf finish can be achieved using H88 blades and scarifying, mowing, and leaf collecting can be carried out in one job.

Amazone points out that utilising a diesel powertrain instead of an electric system keeps weight down and output up. “This allows for longer working periods, increased power to weight ratio and making the machine overall more compact. A battery would be unable to maintain the Profihopper’s power for a full day’s work as well as making the

machine too large and heavy for turf work.”

The PH1500 now comes with ECO mode, said to be ideal for collecting foliage and for mowing in light growth conditions. The rotor is driven at a reduced speed of 2500 rpm, and the speed of the diesel engine is just 2000 rpm. This saves fuel and reduces the noise level by up to 4.5 dB.

Profihoppers are certified to run on HVO 100 (hydrotreated vegetable oil) fuels which lead to fewer emissions overall with the production and combustion of HVO fuel often releasing up to 90% less CO2 than regular diesel.

The new InsectGuard also makes sure that pollinators are not mown by the following cutting system, protecting the insect population.

ISEKI has recently introduced the SXG324 and SXG327 ride-on mowers which offer a number of improvements over the previous models to improve productivity and reduce running costs and environmental impact.

The ISEKI-built three-cylinder engine has a larger capacity than its competitors at 1123cc allowing it to produce its maximum power at only 2,600 rpm against an industry norm of between 3,200rpm and 3,420 rpm.

This results in lower noise levels, reduced fuel consumption and less wear and tear. Like other models in the ISEKI range the SXG324 and SXG327 are capable of using HVO renewable diesel.

Collectors have been enlarged to 590 litres for the low-tip version and 650 litres for the high-tip –so reducing the number times they need to be emptied.

The operator’s platform and controls have been redesigned to improve ergonomics and thus productivity including cruise control and adjustable steering plus the seat has now been upgraded to an adjustable Grammer suspension seat with arm rests.

To further enhance efficiency, the SXG may be fitted with the patented Handy Hatch that allows clippings and prunings to be dropped into the collector removing the need for a wheelbarrow or trailer.

Newly launched cut and drop versions have rear discharge decks of 1.2m (SXG324) or 1.2m and 1.35m (SXG327).

Out-front collecting mowers –SF237, SF544 and SF551 are powered by ISEKI built Stage V turbodiesel engines providing more horsepower and torque than previous engines whilst offering improved economy and lower emissions.

The more compact SF225 is powered by ISEKI’s economical 22.5hp diesel engine which is Stage V compliant but does not require the emission control equipment that must be fitted to engines that are over 25hp.

Cub Cadet’s new XZ8 series features steering wheel control and bridges the gap between professional and consumer zeroturn machines.

ISEKI

ISEKI

Amazone

They are engineered to mow precisely and help prevent turf damage – even on sloping terrain.

The two machines powered by either a Kawasaki or Kohler petrol engine also feature patented Synchro Steer technology to retain full control of the front wheels. Steering and

drive control are synchronised to help control the speed and rotation direction of each rear wheel, whatever the position of the front wheels.

This ability to control all four wheels with a steering wheel and steerable front wheels minimises the turf being churned up by the

METRAC H75

wheels or crabbing on banks, while less experienced operators can benefit from the ease of use and amazing manoeuvrability of this machine.

The robust steel frame is designed for durability even on challenging terrain and the Hydro drive system helps provide a

smooth mowing experience. The machines will mow an area of up to 13,000m² per hour with cutting deck widths of 122cm and 137cm.

Comfort is at the forefront of the machine’s design thanks to the high back seat with armrests and individually adjustable suspension. Cub Cadet offers a warranty of three years or up to 500 working hours (whichever comes first) –for commercial or private use.

Groundscare professionals looking for performance, comfort and the ability to work in the tightest of spaces when mowing have four options to choose from in John Deere’s zero-turn ZTrak range.

John Deere zero-turn mowers are based on a robust, heavy-duty frame including a ROPS. The highgauge PRO steel rotary cutting decks feature a deep mowing chamber designed to handle more grass for increased capacity. This increases airflow so that a quality cut can be achieved even when mowing at maximum speed.

The Z740R semi-commercial mower is powered by a Kawasaki 23.5hp commercial grade petrol engine, while the Z950R commercial machine has a larger Kawasaki 27hp petrol engine and is equipped with Michelin

Tweel X Turf airless radial tyres as standard (these are optional on the smaller model). Both mowers feature an adjustable operator platform and ComfortGlide suspension seat with armrests, with easy access to a quickchange height-of-cut dial and on-the-go tracking adjustments to maximise mowing performance. The Z740R offers a choice of high-capacity 1.22 or 1.37m sidedischarge decks, while the larger Z950R is available with 1.37 or 1.52m side-discharge and new 1.52cm rear-discharge decks.

Since 2021, John Deere’s Stage V diesel engine zero-turn mowers, the Z994R 24.7hp and Z997R 37.4hp models, can be fitted with a choice of 1.52m side-discharge and new 1.52m or 1.83m rear-discharge decks in addition to side-discharge options, depending on model.

The heavy-duty rear-discharge decks employ a single-belt deck design for easy maintenance, and are mulching enabled for a cleaner finish.

These have been introduced to the John Deere zero-turn mower range for the first time, specifically for those customers who require this particular configuration to meet contract requirements.

All these new zero-turn mowers also provide easy access for servicing and on-board diagnostics, while available attachments include a tool carrier, striping brush and storage tray.

Kubota now offers the FC Series out-front centre-collect mowers. The 25hp FC3-261 features a ‘floating’ out-front rotary or flail deck that delivers precise cut quality even on undulating ground.

The larger 50hp FC4-501, with 1.48 or 1.52m deck offers additional productivity in large spaces.

Kubota’s G-Series, powered by the company’s 25hp engine, has been designed for high performance, comfort and ease of operation.

The Kubota G261 offers a 1.2m cutting width and two collector options – a 560 litre low dump fabric grass collector or 640 litre high dump collector

Also available is the G261 RD with a robust, fully-welded 1.2m rear discharge (RD) mower deck and optional mulching kit. The Canycom range of ride-on brushcutters distributed by PSD Groundcare offer a simple design yet high level of performance.

EVOTRAK

QUATRAK

Cub Cadet

John Deere

Canycom

Ride on Mowers

All Canycom ride-on brushcutters are four-wheel drive and can easily switch from two-wheel drive to fourwheel drive depending on the ground conditions. Canycom brushcutters are designed to work in the toughest conditions, effectively clearing long grass, bushes, weeds, bracken and brambles in a variety of sites such as woodland trails and orchards.

Four-wheel drive enables ease in operation and manoeuvrability to ensure high energy efficiency and great results on steep slopes up to 25deg.

All models available in the Canycom ride-on brushcutter range are powered by either a proven Honda or Yamaha engine from 14 to 22hp with HST transmission. Tool-free blade change is available on all

Acacia Groundcare expands their hire fleet

Acacia Groundcare Equipment Rental are expanding their commercial hire fleet for 2024, and the latest addition is a versatile Kubota F391 ride-on out-front rotary mower.

models (except CM1402) which makes this process quick and easy to complete.

There are no cutter deck belts to adjust or replace, so maintenance and cleaning of the mower easier and quicker and more power is delivered direct to the blades for extra efficiency. Operator comfort is enhanced with an adjustable steering wheel and seat.

Case studies

All round collector

Chesham Town Council is using Iseki’s SXG ride-on collector mower and Paul Isom, parks and premises manager comments: “The SXG did more than we hoped for, it cuts and collects our parks at a low height of cut, then tackles the road verges and clears the wildflower meadows leaving the same finish.

“They really do cut and collect even in the wet with no blockages. It is very reliable and we have had no issues with it, I would recommend ISEKI to anyone and have done to local councils already.”

Jacobsen unveils fully electric mowing solution

The F391 has an environmentallyfriendly diesel engine that gives powerful performance even when undertaking heavy duty work. Drive is via a tworange hydrostatic transmission with on-demand four-wheel drive for improved grip in wet conditions or sloping land. With fast, high-quality mowing/ mulching and a comfortable ergonomic operator’s platform, it makes a fantastic addition to their fleet and is ideal for parks, open spaces and local authority work.

Acacia Enquiry 66

In 2024, Jacobsen will become one of the first manufacturers to offer a fully electric golf course mowing service solution.

Jacobsen has scaled up the power requirements for fairway and rough machines using tried and tested Samsung Lithium SDI technology.

By partnering this technology with Jacobsen mowers, turf professionals can cut all day on greens, tees, fairways, or roughs, while always maintaining Jacobsen’s famous quality of cut.

Extending the benefits of lithium to the entire course enables golf organizations to reduce their carbon emissions further, but there are also significant user benefits.

With noise and vibration greatly decreased, a day of cutting fairways or rough will have less stress on the operator, bringing increased comfort and productivity.

To enhance the efficiency and productivity of these machines, Jacobsen has added PACE Technology, an equipment management and geofencing

system that is a screenless web-based solution. PACE can be accessed from any device and features real-time tracking and task management

to maximize the effectiveness of your operation.

Kubota

Kubota

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P500 Series is the professional choice Versatility the key for turf managers

Husqvarna’s P500 Series ride-on mowers offer a professional cutting solution with high performance aimed at commercial environments where quality of cut and manoeuvrability is key.

Launched in 2021, the Husqvarna P535 HX is a hybrid machine that can reduce fuel costs by up to 30%. Silent Drive allows the machine to operate in fully electric mode in noise sensitive

areas - the silent transport mode works at 16dB(A) lower than conventional mowers.

Two electric motors power the wheel drive axles, while the PTO, hydraulics and electric generator are powered by the diesel engine. The incorporation of dual energy sources combined with high efficiency in the hybrid system reduces the vehicle’s overall fuel consumption and carbon

footprint an operational cost. These machines are proving popular with facility management companies, holiday parks and landscapers.

P535 HX is also ready for HV0100 renewable synthetic diesel and Husqvarna uses biodegradable oils for a lower environmental footprint.

Husqvarna

Enquiry 70

Local councils, golf courses, caravan parks and colleges are just some of the organisations that have appreciated the versatility of Ventrac and how it has enhanced their turf maintenance operations.

Jason Brooks is the Course Manager at Stover Golf Club and says: “The team just love it. It’s simple to operate and suits our course as it makes light work of undulations and the bunker and tee banks that are a feature here. It’s certified to operate on 30-degree slopes, so from a health and safety point of view, it ticks all the boxes.

“We have numerous slopes that we used to strim, but we now use the

Ventrac and save multiple work hours, they get cut more regularly and the definition is much better. We are situated mainly on clay, so the light footprint of the machine is ideal. We also have a stream running through the course and even in wet weather we can still mow the banks.”

Brightlingsea Town Council’s Grounds Manager, Terry Hamilton, concurs saying: “We’ve certainly purchased a very versatile piece of kit. We’re replacing an aging triple reel mower with this Ventrac and the MU deck, which provides the same level of finish, so we’re not sacrificing quality or overall presentation. We have two recreation grounds to maintain,

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

Burnham Beeches Golf Club’s Course Manager, Lee Bishop, also appreciates Ventracs versatility: “The management team were so impressed we purchased the package within a couple of weeks of the demonstration! The Tough Cut deck is superb for managing our woodland margins; it takes down brambles and young saplings with ease and this helps to keep up the pace of play, making it easier for our golfers to find their balls after a wayward shot.

“The Contour deck is articulated and that makes it ideal for bunker surrounds and tee banks but it has been a godsend during the winter months as we have been using it on our fairways when it is too wet to cut with our fairway mowers. The Triple Cylinder unit is used for the perimeter fairway cut and this has enabled us to remove a dedicated machine from our fleet.”

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