LANDSCAPING
When passion shines through LANDSCAPING
I had a very enjoyable and informative visit to Birmingham for the BBC Gardeners’ World Live show, during which time I was able to admire some of the superb Show Gardens. Standing tall among them was the Eco Oasis Garden designed by Dan Hartley and built by Tisserand English Gardens.
I was so taken with the quality of the Garden that I arranged to chat with Elohim Tisserand for this issue, and I’m delighted that I did because he is a very impressive man with many strings to his bow.
Both Dan and Elohim were producing their first ever Show Garden but collecting Best Show Garden and Best Construction was down to much more than just beginners’ luck. Passion, a desire not to accept second best and a high degree of technical skill all shone through to create a garden worthy of any stage.
It also proved to me that collaboration is the key. You need someone with the vision, but that must be combined with someone with the ability to make that vision a reality. The constructor may not receive the same kudos as the designer but they are equally important in ensuring a successful end result.
With Elohim’s newfound enthusiasm for Show Gardens, Tisserand English Gardens’ success at BBC Gardeners’ World Live may prove to be just the first in a long list of medal winning gardens.
Scott MacCallum Editor
WHY GROUNDSFEST 2024 IS The must-attend event for landscapers
Get ready for the most anticipated event in the landscape, groundscare, and amenity industries. GroundsFest 2024, taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on September 10 and 11, is set to return, promising an even more impressive lineup of exhibitors, new features, and experiences.
Last year, the first-ever GroundsFest took the industry by storm, heralding a new era for trade shows. Now in its second year, GroundsFest has rapidly become the largest event of its kind in the UK, boasting the most space, exhibitors, and products on display. It’s also the only event in the industry where visitors can see machinery in action and can truly get hands-on with the equipment.
WHY YOU CAN’T MISS GROUNDSFEST 2024
Outdoor Demos: GroundsFest
gives you the opportunity to test a wide range of machinery. Experience machinery in the actual conditions they will be used, ensuring you get a true feel for their performance and capabilities.
NEW! Machinery Nation LIVE: Watch top brands compete in the ultimate machinery faceoff and participate in exciting equipment challenges for a chance to win amazing prizes.
Free Educational Seminars: Gain insights and solutions to the industry’s biggest issues. From
management to apprentices, there’s something for everyone. With a great action-packed seminar programme, keep an eye out for seminars on topics such as the use of glyphosate, building a successful landscaping business, how to choose the correct grass seed, integrated weed management, water management, Official Controls Regulation (OCR), pollinators, and many more.
The Landscape Zone: Discover the latest in outdoor environment technologies and innovations. This is a must-attend for landscape architects, garden designers, contractors, and more.
Free Practical Training: Enhance your skills with hands-on training sessions on a variety of groundscare topics, delivered by Lantraapproved instructors.
Live Music Festival and Happy Hour: Unwind with live music, street food, and fun activities. Enjoy performances from great DJs and bands, including the returning Queen tribute band, and explore the revamped festival area with exciting new features like bumper cars. There will also be a Happy Hour from 5pm – 6pm during the festival on the first day where you can enjoy a wide range of discounted drinks.
New Product Launches:
GroundsFest will feature over 500 brands and over 60 new product launches. Be the first to see these new innovations!
Exciting
Registration Prize from Toro
Every person who registers will have a chance to win a Toro ProStripe 560 pedestrian mower. Designed to provide a precise cut and clean striped finish, the Toro ProStripe leaves your turf looking its best. Sports fields and fine turf applications are no match for this high-quality, versatile machine.
Accessibility
and Community Focus
GroundsFest has quickly become known as the show that welcomes everyone in the grounds management sector. Not only does it attract industry leaders and elite brands, but it also opens its doors to a much wider range of exhibitors and visitors, making it the most inclusive event in the industry. For visitors, GroundsFest goes the extra mile in terms of accessibility. With free parking, the event ensures that more people can attend without worrying about additional costs, making the event more accessible to everyone.
The event also features a dedicated camping area with full facilities. Whether you’re an industry leader or a small business, a seasoned professional or new to the industry, GroundsFest is the event where you’ll feel at home.
DON’T MISS OUT
Don’t miss out on the must-attend event of the year. Secure your spot now and join thousands of industry professionals for an unforgettable experience. Register for free on the GroundsFest website and bring your email confirmation to the registration desk on the day of the event. Profits from the event are reinvested back into the industry through the Education Fund, supporting the next generation of groundscare professionals. For more information, please visit our website, below. You can also follow GroundsFest on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram @ GroundsFest for much more news, reviews, and insightful views. n www.groundsfest.com
Who you can expect to
Avant Tecno is excited to announce its participation at GroundsFest 2024, featuring the highly anticipated Avant National Pro Challenge. Visit the Avant stand outdoors at OSA270 for an unforgettable experience!
National Avant Pro Challenge
The Avant National Pro Challenge is set to be one the most thrilling events at GroundsFest. This exciting competition will test participants’ skills through a series of tasks including slaloms, material handling, and tool changes. Competitors will navigate a specially designed track in an Avant Loader, with time penalties for mistakes and disqualification for incomplete tasks.
The challenge demands speed, precision, and agility, with tasks suited for all Avant users. The track layout will remain a secret until the day of the event, adding an extra layer of excitement. The fastest, most skilled, and precise drivers will win fantastic prizes!
The competition is open to all Avant customers and dealers, and advance registration is required. Interested participants should contact Avant to secure their spot and prove their prowess.
Featured Loaders and Attachments
In addition to the National Pro Challenge, Avant Tecno will showcase an impressive lineup of loaders and attachments designed to enhance operations:
Loaders:
Will you accept the challenge?
Avant 225 L Cab: Compact and versatile for small-scale tasks. Avant 423: Agile and perfect for tight spaces.
• Avant 530 GT Cab: Offers superior comfort and control.
• Avant 635, 640, 650: Balances power and manoeuvrability.
• Avant 760i GT Cab: Highperformance for demanding tasks.
• Avant 755i: Exceptional lifting capacity and efficiency.
• Avant e513: Zero-emission electric model.
• Avant 860i GT Cab: Ultimate power and versatility.
• Avant 650: Demonstrates power and versatility.
• Avant e527: Electric power for demanding environments.
• Avant 860i: Highlights unmatched lifting capacity and performance.
• Leguan 135 Neo, 190, 225: Innovative access platforms for elevated work.
Attachments:
• Mowers: Ideal for grassy area maintenance.
• Pallet Forks: Essential for material handling.
• Log Grab: Safely and efficiently handles logs.
• Branch Cutter, Stump Grinder, Tree Shear, Forestry Mulcher: Tools for tree care and maintenance. Root Grapple, Levelling Bucket, Timber Grab: Enhance ground preparation and material handling.
• Fast Charger: Rapidly powers electric models.
• Backhoe Remote: Remotecontrolled digging capabilities.
• Pallet Forks, Rotator: Efficient material handling and rotation.
• Root Grapple, Front Rake: Ideal for ground preparation and cleanup.
• Pressure Washer: Ensures equipment cleanliness.
Join
Avant Tecno at GroundsFest 2024
Don’t miss out on the Avant National Pro Challenge and the chance to see Avant Tecno’s innovative machinery and attachments in action. Visit stand OSA270 at GroundsFest 2024 to discover how Avant loaders can revolutionise operations across various industries. n www.avant.co.uk
Etesia gears up for GroundsFest
Etesia UK is excited to return to GroundsFest for the second consecutive year. Attendees can visit stand OSA150 at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on 10 and 11 September to explore Etesia’s impressive lineup, including pedestrian and ride-on mowers, brushcutters, and the award-winning ET Lander electric utility vehicle.
Etesia UK, known for its highquality grass cutting equipment, will unveil the ET Lander’s new differential lock feature, which enhances traction and versatility for off-road use. This innovative electric utility vehicle is fully N1 homologation compliant, making it road-legal and capable of extended off-road use. Its lithiumion batteries offer a range of up to 100km and compatibility with standard type 2 EV car chargers.
The ET Lander, a 100% electric vehicle, is spacious, user-friendly,
and built on a robust chassis. It boasts a three-way tipper bed with dual control from the twoseater cab or remote control. With a compact length of 3.72 meters, power steering, a short turning radius of 4.40 meters, and 360° visibility, it manoeuvres easily
in tight spaces. The vehicle can transport loads up to 940kg and tow up to 750kg, with a full day’s autonomy and no noise pollution.
Etesia will also feature the Electric Bahia M2EL, the world’s first 100% electric professional ride-on mower with grass collection. Powered by a 48V, 100Ah lithium battery, the Bahia M2EL offers up to 4 hours and 30 minutes of operation on a single charge. Its compact size, tight turning circle, and excellent stability on slopes make it ideal for various mowing tasks.
The electric Bahia is also highly economical, with running costs of £0.35 compared to £3.57 for its petrol counterpart, and reduced maintenance needs.
Etesia’s knowledgeable staff will be available throughout GroundsFest to provide expert advice and assistance on all products. n www.etesia.co.uk
MM Seed to be showcased at GroundsFest
An impressive range of MM grass seed mixtures will be showcased at GroundsFest 2024, and visitors will get the chance to find out how the innovative seed technology could vastly benefit their sports pitches.
Here’s a snapshot of just some of the mixtures on display at GroundsFest.
MM50 is perfect for cricket squares, tennis courts and also golf tees and fairways. This hard-
wearing mix has rapid germination, extremely fine leaved appearance, high shoot density and is tolerant to very close mowing, as low as 5mm, along with high disease resistance. All these attributes together produce a fantastic sward.
MM60 is a 100% Ryegrass formula and the UK’s leading winter sports renovation mixture. It is well-known for its extremely fast germination and its high wear tolerance, fast recovery plus excellent disease resistance.
MM Tetrasport
A Tetraploid based Ryegrass mixture, especially useful for seeding and overseeding of high quality sportsfields to improve sward composition, disease resistance with fast recovery from play and damage. Tetraploid Ryegrasses also provide high drought
tolerance along with good colour. All mixtures in the MM range, are treated with HEADSTART® GOLD - a revolutionary grass seed treatment that ensures rapid, even germination.
PRO Flora Wild Flower & Colour Boost Flower Seed Mixtures
Pro Flora is a range of Native Origin Wildflower Mixtures that can bring colour, biodiversity and interest to any landscape area and also benefit the environment, pollinators and conservation. Colour Boost is a range of high impact flower mixtures designed to create a dazzling display of colour and interest in many different landscape’s sites and situations. If you are seeking advice for your natural turf projects – no matter how big or small, then pay a visit to the DLF stand where the MM Sports Seed specialist team will be on hand. n www.mm-seeds.co.uk
DSV to unveil Eurobeat at GroundsFest
DSV
is set to make a significant impact at this year’s GroundsFest, introducing their latest innovation in grass seed, EUROBEAT, on stand 29.
EUROBEAT is a top-tier ryegrass specifically bred for sports applications. Its performance in the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) test series has been outstanding, earning a TOP 10 rank and demonstrating the superior capabilities of DSV’s turfgrass breeding department. EUROBEAT boasts exceptional summer and winter appearance scores, setting it apart as a top performer in traffic tolerance, crucial for sports pitches.
Key benefits of EUROBEAT:
• Optimised for Sports Pitches: EUROBEAT’s design caters specifically to the rigorous demands of sports environments.
• Superior Wear Resistance: With a 20% improvement over standard ryegrass, EUROBEAT excels in durability.
• Year-Round Performance: High aspect scores in both summer and winter ensure a consistently attractive and resilient turf.
• Ideal for Overseeding: EUROBEAT’s characteristics make it perfect for enhancing older pitches and supporting autumn sowing for winter
appearance boosts.
EUROBEAT’s versatility makes it an excellent choice for renovation mixtures, providing an upgrade in both performance and quality for existing sports fields. GroundsFest attendees will have the opportunity to learn about other high-performing EuroGrass mixtures, each tailored for specific sports turf applications.
EG PRO Rye Fairway: Ideal for golf fairways and roughs, this mixture is designed to handle moderate to high levels of play, ensuring robust and resilient turf.
PRO Summer Sport: Perfect for cricket squares, tennis courts, and golf tees, this mixture offers outstanding recovery and strong shoot density, meeting the demands of extreme hard wear sports.
PRO Pitch: The flagship mix in the EuroGrass portfolio, PRO Pitch is tailored for winter sports pitches, providing exceptional wear tolerance and recovery with top-performing perennial ryegrass cultivars.
PRO Multi Sport: Designed for dual-use facilities and drought tolerance, this mixture ensures excellent sward density, good wear tolerance, and increased drought resilience, making it suitable for sports pitches and academic facilities.
Don’t miss the chance to visit DSV at stand 29 to explore how EUROBEAT and other EuroGrass mixtures can elevate the quality and performance of your sports turf.
n www.dsv-uk.co.uk
So much to look forward
Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, 10-11 September
Who you can expect to see at GroundsFest
Explore Mansfield Sand’s premier sports turf solutions at GroundsFest 2024
Visitors to the Mansfield Sand stand (OSA260) at GroundsFest 2024, taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 10 and 11 September, can expect to see a comprehensive range of sand-based products vital to the overall health and performance of sports pitches.
For over 180 years, Mansfield Sand has pioneered the development and production of premium silica sand-based products. The company provides a wide range of innovative products for sports, landscaping, and equestrian uses, including stadium and training ground facilities, championship golf courses, and world-class show jumping arenas.
The company’s leading experts will be on hand at GroundsFest 2024 to
explain how some of the following products could make a difference to your sports turf projects.
Reinforced Rootzone
Mansfield Sand offers a range of Reinforced Rootzones designed to maximize the use of natural turf surfaces while maintaining the high standards demanded by today’s sports industry. Mansfield Sand’s reinforcement technology provides stability and durability to all sanddominated Rootzones, allowing the pitch to remain free-draining and consistent across the entire surface.
Products include:
Fibre Reinforced Rootzone – reinforced with polypropylene fibres.
• Fibrelastic Rootzone – reinforced with polypropylene fibres and flexible Elastane fibres.
• Fibresand – particularly advantageous when grass cover has been reduced due to heavy usage and wear during the winter period.
Understanding the demands of turf managers, Mansfield Sand ensures that their rootzones contain only the highest quality materials.
For renovation or construction, the company’s superior rootzone blend, Mansil 40 Silica Sand with quality screened topsoil,
guarantees the perfect start.
Mansfield Sand offers a range of premium quality sand organic material blends, ideal for creating a rootzone rich in organic material. These blends aid in the retention of nutrients and provide increased drought resistance.
Produced for the fine turf market, Mansfield Sand’s Soil Top Dressing is a manufactured homogenous product made from their own premium silica sands combined with top quality soils. All components are passed through a sterilising unit and a 3mm screen to produce an easy-to-spread, stone and pebble-free dressing. Mansfield Sand also offers bespoke dressing blends and can incorporate soil amendments into any product.
Sourced from the company’s Two Oaks Quarry in Mansfield, the Mansil range of Silica Sands is predominantly used in the construction and maintenance of a wide variety of sports surfaces, including winter sports pitches, golf courses, bowling greens, and all amenity turf areas.
Visit Mansfield Sand at GroundsFest 2024 to discover how their cutting-edge products can elevate your sports turf projects to new heights.
n www.mansfield-sand.co.uk
Pellenc’s battery power will be on display
Pellenc UK is set to impress at GroundsFest 2024, taking place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire on 10 and 11 September.
Attendees can look forward to an exciting display of Pellenc’s innovative, batterypowered equipment.
Over recent years, Pellenc has established itself as a leader in the market by offering an exceptional line of ‘zero emission’
battery-powered tools. This success is largely due to their advanced Lithium-ion ultrahigh-performance batteries.
Visitors to the Pellenc stand (OSA150) will have the opportunity to explore an extensive array of top-tier equipment. The impressive Pellenc product lineup includes chainsaws, pole saws, hedge cutters, grass strimmers, brushcutters, blowers, and mowers.
Throughout the two-day event, the Pellenc team will be on hand to provide expert assistance and advice on all battery-powered tool enquiries. Pellenc stands out in the industry with its four-year commercial warranty for all batteries and a three-year warranty for all tools. Pellenc is distributed exclusively in the UK by Etesia UK. n www.etesia.co.uk/pellenc
kaleidoscope of colour at Barnsdale gardens
Dare we believe that summer has finally arrived? It certainly looks like the case here at Barnsdale Gardens and, along with the sun, a kaleidoscope of technicolour blooms have exploded into this horticulture treasure trove of thirty eight individually designed gardens too!
Rose Garden
The Rose Garden, once an overgrown plot at Barnsdale, now displays many varieties of Roses. Smart use of underplanting ensures year-round interest, and the covered seat offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy the spectacular sight and intoxicating aroma of some of the world’s most special species. Looking fab now are: over fifty different varieties of Roses; Paeonias; Geraniums; Hemerocallis; Campanula lactiflora ‘Prichards Variety’ and Polemonium
Mediterranean Garden
The Mediterranean Garden focuses on plants that thrive in hot and dry conditions. To improve the drainage of Barnsdale’s heavy clay soil, coarse grit has been used. The soil has been mounded to create variations in height, allowing for the planting of varieties that require sharp drainage at the top. The garden also features brightly coloured foliage plants, succulents, grasses, and herbs to enhance the Mediterranean feel. Looking superb now are: Nepeta ‘Six Hills Giant’; Thalictrum; Anthemis; Centranthus; Salvia ‘Amethyst Lips’; Sisyrinchium striatum and Stipa tenuissima
Versailles
Geoff Hamilton named this view because of its resemblance to the formal and structured layout of Louis XIV’s famous gardens at the Palais de Versailles just outside of
Paris. The hedges were strategically planted to be visually striking while still allowing the rest of the garden to be fully appreciated in all its beauty. Looking amazing now are: Deutzia; Philadelphus; Roses; Hesperis; Cephalaria gigantea; Geraniums; Phytolacca americana and Sambucus nigra f. porphyrophylla ‘Eva’ (Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’)
Allotment
The Allotment at Barnsdale was the primary focus of the fruit and vegetable segments on Gardeners’ World for many years. It is designed to be the typical size of most allotment plots and has been planted to provide a variety of edible delights throughout the year. Looking full and great with vegetables being harvested, new potatoes, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, leaf beet and other newly planted vegetables
Gentleman’s
Cottage Garden
This small garden was designed for the BBC TV series, Geoff Hamilton’s Cottage Gardens. The Gentleman’s Cottage Garden demonstrates an ideal way to handle an area that is wider than it is deep. Looking gorgeous now are: Astrantia ‘Buckland’; Sanguisorba; Delphinium; Thalictrum ‘Black Stockings’; Argyranthemum; Osteospermum ‘Lady Leitrim’; Geraniums; and Roses
There’s plenty to see and do all year round!
Swing arm cuts round posts and trees with ease!
If you need to maintain very steep slopes, grassed banks around lakes or waterways or just difficult to access areas, the Raymo electric remote-control mower from selected ISEKI dealers in the UK & Ireland, is the machine of choice. Designed with a low overall height of only 51 cm which together with a low centre of gravity, 4WD, and a zero-turn steering system allows the Raymo to tackle steep slopes, grassed banks and low obstacles with ease.
To complement the Raymo range is the recently launched R14SFINX swing arm post mower. The SFINX attaches to the side of the Raymo and allows posts, trees and similar obstacles to be cut around quickly and accurately. In open areas it increases the cutting width of the Raymo but will then retract automatically when it encounters a post or tree, providing added efficiency and versatility to the operator The R14SFINX may be fitted to the left or right or both sides of the Raymo.
Easily operated, via an industrialgrade remote control the Raymo benefits from zero emissions, low-noise and no vibrations! Being able to stand away from the mower while the ground is being cut, allows the operator to keep away from dangerous hazards such as slopes, ditches or deep water. Continuous operation is maintained with the lithium-ion power-pack which can be swapped over in only one minute extending working times to the required length.
Information on all the Raymo mowers can be found on www. raymoelectric.co.uk but basically there are three rotary decks, R42FLEX 42”, R52TURF 52”and R48CRAFT 48” to choose from depending on the type of grass to be cut and maintained.
R48CRAFT was designed
specifically for rough municipal mowing and for vegetation control where grass is often overgrown, and the mower may encounter solid obstacles or structures. The R48CRAFT cutting deck is protected by a robust steel frame with nylon bumpers and features suspended caster wheels that absorb excessive vibration in undulating terrain. The height of cut ranges from 60 mm to 140 mm and can be adjusted by the means of pins that are secured against loss in high vibration conditions. The cutting device itself consists of new proprietary direct drive electric motors (providing twice as much power and torque as the R42FLEX and R52TURF deck motors) and a special Raymodesign swing blade system with a rear discharge function.
S46FLORIS cutting bar is the answer for those who look for the ultimate environment friendly mowing solution. SINGLE or DUAL ACTION – the mower deck can be supplied in a single action (more robust) or dual action (faster) version. Depending upon the type of area you intend to mow,
you can choose the most suitable solution. The number of wildflower meadows and areas with emphasis on biodiversity is rapidly growing.
S46FLORIS sickle mower is a perfect tool to maintain these – silent, fully electric and compact enough to deal with the municipal environment. Sickle bars are also providing the best possible protection to living animals and insects, especially in comparison to rotary or flail mowers. The Raymo remote control electric mower cuts faster than a strimmer and will solve your health and safety problems when cutting slopes, banks and difficult to access areas. n www.raymoelectric.co.uk
S46FLORIS
CUTTING
BAR IS THE ANSWER FOR THOSE WHO LOOK FOR THE ULTIMATE
ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY MOWING SOLUTION
“NOW INSTEAD OF SPENDING ALL WEEK MOWING, IT LITERALLY TAKES JUST A COUPLE OF DAYS. THIS MEANS THAT WE CAN CONCENTRATE ON THE GARDENS INSTEAD SUCH AS GETTING MORE COLOUR INTO VARIOUS AREAS.”
Maintaining the expansive grounds of Repton School requires precision, efficiency, and innovation.
For Andrew Butler, Head of Grounds and Gardens, and his team, the introduction of the Etesia Hydro 80 ride-on mower has not only streamlined operations but also revolutionised the way they manage the school’s green spaces.
Repton School, nestled in the serene surroundings of Derbyshire, boasts extensive grounds that demand meticulous care. From ornamental gardens to sprawling lawns surrounding boarding houses, every corner of the campus requires attention. However, with limited time and resources, the grounds and gardens team found themselves struggling to keep up with the demands of manual mowing using pedestrian mowers.
Andrew explains, “There is a lot of mowing carried out around the boarding house where the team were previously using pedestrian mowers. I felt it was just taking too long, and then other jobs were getting neglected because of it. It just felt like
Mowing Made Easy: Etesia Hydro 80 at Repton School
the gardening team were out mowing all the time, and less time was being spent on the actual gardening.”
Introducing the Etesia Hydro 80, a compact yet powerful rideon mower designed to tackle both long and short grass with ease. Featuring a hydrostatic drive and a robust 15hp twin-cylinder Kawasaki engine, the Hydro 80 offers unparalleled efficiency and output. Its specially contoured deck ensures clippings are collected without clogging, even in wet conditions, while anti-scalp rollers maintain a pristine finish on uneven terrain.
Andrew recounts the transformation brought about by the Hydro 80: “Now instead of spending all week mowing, it literally takes just a couple of days. This means that we can concentrate on the gardens instead such as getting more colour into various areas. The time management is significantly better.”
One of the Hydro 80’s most impressive features is its ability to navigate tight spaces with ease. Andrew notes, “The reason we were using pedestrian mowers is because there was always the problem of
getting a ride-on mower in and out of gates, so we thought about taking various gates out to make the job easier, but then we came across the Etesia Hydro 80. It allows us to get into areas where previously we had to use pedestrian mowers. These areas, which previously would have taken an hour or two, are now taking just 15-20 minutes.
“Its ability to cut and collect in the rain is amazing,” continues Andrew. “Even in the heavy rain the Hydro 80 is going out and cutting, so again it improves our efficiency.”
Beyond its efficiency, the Hydro 80’s durability and manoeuvrability have earned high praise from Andrew and his team. “I like the durability of it, how quick it is, how easy it is to manoeuvre it, and how it can get through longer grass with no problem at all,” Andrew remarks.
As Repton School continues to uphold its reputation for excellence, the Etesia Hydro 80 stands as a testament to the power of innovation in grounds management, ensuring that the campus remains a source of pride and inspiration for all who visit. n www.etesia.co.uk
STIGA Park front mowers: Versatility at its best
STIGA’s ‘Park’ range of front mowers have been at the forefront of commercial grass maintenance for years. Once bitten by the ‘Park’ bug, users find it hard to resist enjoying the benefits of these innovative machines whenever they need to renew their mowers. Do you want to know the secret behind this mower’s success? It is the patented 50:50 articulated steering, the rear wheels follow the exact path as the front wheels, which makes it easier than ever to manoeuvre between rocks and trees, round corners and in confined places. The cutting deck features patented Multiclip technology that delivers best-in-class cutting results and the quick -flip system makes cleaning the deck and checking for maintenance so much easier.
Built for comfort the Park seat with high back support ensures you can mow for hours, and the ergonomics panels are within easy reach with just one hand.
With a large selection of additional implements that can be quickly connected to this model making this a very versatile front cut lawn mower.
Power steering, electric height adjustment and a range of other professional features come as standard for each machine, with a choice of 2WD or 4WD.
Owner of ‘Le Jardinier,’ Stuart Fenwick, explains why he changed from his John Deere mower 17 years ago, and has never looked back. When asked why Stuart decided to try ‘Park’ mowers in the beginning, he stated “One of our agriculture dealers had started selling STIGA, and at that time Gary Whitney came and demonstrated one for me and I bought it straight away after that. After buying my first ‘Park’ I never looked back.”
The manoeuvrability of the ‘Park’ mowers has always been the secret to their success. Stuart has found that this and their amazing versatility are key to cutting the different types of lawns and grass areas for the wide array of customers he has.
“These machines are so versatile! I was cutting at some cold stores in Grimsby commercially the other day and then
following that I was cutting one of the church yards I look after, and then I moved on to a domestic property.”
Stuart continues “So you can use the ‘Park’ for large commercial grass areas with utility grass and slopes, but also the pivoting is so excellent you can move around the graves at the churchyard with ease too. You can go from utility grass to church yards then to domestic lawns so smoothly, as the electric height on the deck can be adjusted for every type of grass.”
Stiga have more than 80 years of experience in producing innovative consumer and professional gardening products. As the ‘Go To’ brand for those who work in the park and landscaping industry, STIGA’s product range excels in providing all that is needed for lawn care professionals in this area.’
The ‘Park’ range of products have the ultimate combination of raw power, versatility, and perfect precision, which will get the job done!
“ONE OF OUR AGRICULTURE DEALERS HAD STARTED SELLING STIGA, AND AT THAT TIME GARY WHITNEY CAME AND DEMONSTRATED ONE FOR ME AND I BOUGHT IT STRAIGHT AWAY AFTER THAT. AFTER BUYING MY FIRST ‘PARK’ I NEVER LOOKED BACK.”
Avant e6: Powering sustainability
Paddington Recreation Ground, in the City of Westminster, has long been a cherished haven for Londoners. Drawing over 2 million visitors annually, this historic parkland boasts a rich tapestry of sports facilities, gardens, and leisure spaces.
To ensure its upkeep and to meet the evolving demands of sustainability, Westminster Council, in collaboration with its leisure contractor Everyone Active, has embarked on a transformative journey, propelled by innovative solutions like the Avant e6 Electric Multi-Functional Loader.
Overseeing the maintenance of the park is Stephen Scott, who has dedicated 12 years to Paddington Recreation Ground, starting from a gardener and ascending to the role of Landscape and Security
Manager. He leads a team of 8 landscapers, ensuring the park remains a meticulously kept green space amidst busy urban life.
The decision to integrate electric machinery aligns with Westminster Council’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Stephen notes, “Westminster Council is keen to move our petrol machinery over to electric machinery,” highlighting a shift towards a greener, more sustainable approach. This transition has seen remarkable progress, with Stephen proudly stating, “We were at 20% electric back in 2019, now we are 86% electric in terms of our equipment.”
Central to this transformation is the Avant e6 Electric MultiFunctional Loader, a pioneering solution that combines power, versatility, and eco-friendliness.
Powered by a 13.8 kWh lithium-ion battery, the e6 boasts impressive performance metrics, including a 2.8m lift height and a 900kg lift capacity. Its silent operation and zero emissions make it an ideal fit for urban environments like Paddington Recreation Ground. Stephen recounts the introduction of the Avant e6 with enthusiasm, emphasising its seamless integration into their daily operations. As Paddington Recreation Ground continues to evolve, the Loader stands as a testament to the power of innovation in driving sustainable progress. With its eco-friendly design and unparalleled versatility, it has become an indispensable asset in maintaining the park’s pristine beauty while reducing its environmental footprint. n www.avanttecno.com/uk
Kubota Z4-541 expands zero-turn range
Expanding Kubota’s existing zero-turn mower range and tailored for the pro-consumer market, the Z4-541 is a 54-inch petrol model which boasts a larger chassis, exceeding the dimensions of the current Z1 and Z2 models.
The introduction of the Z4-541 broadens the existing zero-turn lineup, building upon a larger chassis while maintaining maneuverability
comparable to smaller models.
The 360-degree turning capability enables effortless navigation around obstacles, while the machines’ low centre of gravity and wide-profile drive wheels ensure exceptional stability and balance, making the machine suitable for tasks on uneven terrain.
The Z4-541’s robust 54” steel fabricated deck comes as a 3-blade side discharge, with enhanced performance and cut quality, and featuring quick-dial height adjustment and K-lift deck operation for easy raising and lowering of the deck. Regardless of whether the machine is fitted with the side discharge or mulching kit, rest assured it will cover expansive areas, delivering a professional finish.
This specific model also features an optional OCDC (Operator Controlled Discharge
Chute) kit, enabling operators to temporarily shut the side discharge, perfect for maintaining clean pathways and protecting parked vehicles from debris.
The Z4-541 is equipped with a petrol Kawasaki V FS730-V engine producing 24hp/17.9kw. The design of V twin engines allows the machine to run quieter and smoother with fewer vibrations than most traditional single-cylinder engines. A rear “wrap around” bumper gives added protection and comes as standard, along with a rear towing hitch, ideal for small light trailers.
Tailored for expansive areas, the versatility of this machine makes it well-suited for tackling large gardens or commercial landscapes and green spaces – excelling in diverse settings and guaranteeing maximum efficiency with every operation. n www.kubota.com
MILWAUKEE TOOL TO MAKE DEBUT APPEARANCE AT GROUNDSFEST
Milwaukee Tool UK is thrilled to announce its debut as an exhibitor at GroundsFest 2024, where it will be showcasing its latest innovations in batterypowered and cordless outdoor power equipment (OPE).
Indeed, the global manufacturer of heavy-duty power tools will be demonstrating new additions to its OPE range, including the DUAL BATTERY 50CM CHAINSAW and advanced M18 FORGE batteries designed specifically for gardening, landscaping and horticulture professionals.
Rhys Adams, national sales manager OPE at Milwaukee Tool UK, highlighted: “Visitors can expect an exceptional showcase at the Milwaukee Tool stand, where we will unveil our cutting-edge OPE solutions designed to meet the demanding needs of industry professionals, enhancing efficiency and performance of users tackling even the most demanding tasks.”
Adding to the excitement, Milwaukee Tool invites attendees to get up close and personal with a diverse range of cutting-edge equipment this year, offering interactive demonstrations with the M18 range. Visitors will be able to test and experience the exceptional performance and durability of Milwaukee Tool’s products, which offer unmatched power and extended runtime that
redefine efficiency and reliability in outdoor maintenance tasks.
Rhys continued, “Beyond showcasing our new and existing range of products, we’ll also be hosting a competition offering attendees a chance to win one of our state-of-the-art M18 FUEL DUAL BATTERY lawn mowers. So, whether exploring the latest advancements in OPE or networking with industry peers, visitors can join us at the stand for an exciting couple of days.”
However, Milwaukee Tool’s commitment goes beyond exhibitions. Visitors to the stand have the chance to talk with the knowledgeable job site solutions (JSS) sales team; receive expert advice tailored to their needs and arrange personalised product trials. These conversations can help visitors to the event learn about the best solutions specifically
designed to address their unique requirements and challenges.
So, whether exploring the latest advancements in OPE or networking with industry peers, visitors can join Milwaukee Tool at stand RB140 for an exciting couple of days on the 10 - 11 September at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire. An actionpacked GroundsFest 2024 awaits, combining indoor business and educational opportunities with dynamic outdoor demonstrations, culminating in a unique live music festival where attendees can unwind and relax after a busy day.
Be sure to look out for Milwaukee Tool’s latest launches throughout 2024. To discover its full range of outdoor power equipment and battery technology today, click here or visit https://uk.milwaukeetool.eu/. n https://uk.milwaukeetool.eu/
ICL launch two new hand-held spreaders
ICL is pleased to announce the addition of two new handheld spreaders to its comprehensive range of spreaders: the ShakerPro and the HandyPro. These compact tools are designed for turf managers
and landscaping professionals looking for a convenient solution for small-scale applications.
The HandyPro is a hand-held rotary spreader. It allows for the easy application of ICL fertiliser
or grass seed with just a turn of the handle. Its design focuses on ease of use and comfort, making it an excellent choice for quick and small-scale spreading tasks. Its portability and straightforward mechanism make it a valuable tool applying products to small areas.
Similarly, the ShakerPro is a shaker style spreader, offering users a simple and efficient way to apply the ICL range of fertilisers, granular wetting agents, and seeds to small areas. Its hand-held design is particularly suited for tasks such as divot repair, where targeted application is more important than extensive coverage. The ShakerPro stands out for its ease of handling and for making fertilisation and seeding on small areas hassle-free.
The ShakerPro and HandyPro and are now available through ICL’s network of distributors. Both spreaders have been added to Turf Rewards. The ShakerPro can be claimed for just 5 points and the HandyPro 10 points. n www.icl-growingsolutions.uk
Introducing Allan Wainwright, ICL’s new sales manager
Allan Wainwright is ICL’s new Sales Manager for the UK and Ireland Landscape & Industrial sectors. Allan joins ICL from Hozelock, where he effectively managed the UK&I Sales for the Commercial division, showcasing his capacity for building relationships and enhancing sales within the lawn, landscape, and industrial sectors.
Before joining Hozelock, Allan’s career included a significant period at Vitax, which equipped him with valuable market insights and customer engagement strategies.
Upon accepting his new role, Allan
said, “I’m thrilled to join ICL and contribute to our sectors’ growth. It’s a great chance to use my skills where they matter most, and I’m eager to help take our team to the next level.”
Lewis Blois, Business Development Manager for ICL’s Landscape & Industrial division, noted “Bringing Allan into our team reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthen our market position by incorporating experienced professionals. His background and approach to account management and sales are well-suited to our objectives.”
Essential hand held tools for landscapers
Professional landscapers will know that the quality of their tools has a huge impact on their ability to work efficiently. Not only do the best handheld tools guarantee productivity, but they also ensure an aesthetically pleasing result. Here are some of the best handheld tools and accessories for completing demanding landscaping tasks with ease.
Primarily used for vine work, harvesting and shrub and hedge maintenance, STIHL’s PG 30 Bypass Secateurs are a professional-grade tool that produces clean cuts on shoots up to 25 mm in diameter. A holster for the PG 30 is available separately, perfect for all day use.
Fully-forged and chromeplated for excellent efficiency and precision, the PG 30 features extremely sharp and durable blades for long-lasting performance.
Ideal for cutting through tough branches, the STIHL PB 30 pruning shears offers professional landscapers long handles to provide the leverage required for thick material. With a forged
cutting head and notched blade, the PG 30 also provides elite grip and cutting precision.
Like the PG 30, the shears are equipped with a sap groove to prevent sticking. In addition, the tool combines high-quality, lightweight design with rubberised ergonomic grips, allowing professionals to undertake big projects while enjoying maximum comfort.
A universal sharpening tool, the STIHL 3-in-1 offers professionals a means to undertake essential tool maintenance, allowing for the sharpening of pruners, secateurs and other professional tools such as axes and hatchets.
Professional landscapers should not only be looking to handheld tools that offer them durability and precision, but also offerings that are easy to use and put comfort and practicality at the fore. This combination will ensure maximum efficiency on jobs; granting the best in terms of user experience, while guaranteeing the delivery of excellent work.
n www.stihl.co.uk
Avant praises its battery teamwork
Battery developer and manufacturer Avant Power, the new subsidiary of loader manufacturer Avant Tecno Oy, has exceeded its targets. Double the number of batteries has been manufactured compared to the original plans.
“Our battery production started in February this year, so we have made 500 batteries in about five and a half months,” says Mikko Piepponen, COO of Avant Power.
The battery plant’s manufacturing capacity is even increasing, as a second production line is currently being built next to the first line.
Located next to Avant Tecno’s loader factory, Avant Power has operated at record speed since the very beginning of the subsidiary.
The battery manufacturer has developed a completely new product and production simultaneously in only about two years.
The Avant Group decided to start battery manufacturing because there were no batteries perfectly optimized for Avant loaders in the world, and the company had enough creative expertise to conquer this new territory.
The battery factory’s cooperation with the Avant loader factory has been important.
“The spirit of Avant is that everyone pulls together. Loader design has played a major role, as has the prototype workshop, marketing and sales, and the entire factory. We have all done this together,” Piepponen says.
The COO describes the battery factory’s own team as unique.
“This would not be possible without good team spirit. Even a small team can be very strong when it is competent, flexible and dedicated.”
n www.avant.co.uk
Hard and soft landscaping
Agrovista Amenity Partners with Perennial
Agrovista Amenity is thrilled to announce its partnership with Perennial, the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting those who work with grass, trees, flowers, or plants.
This collaboration aligns perfectly with Mental Health Awareness Week, underlining the importance of mental health support within the sector.
Commenting on the partnership, Perennial’s Corporate Partnership Manager, Phil Swainston, said: “We’re thrilled to have Agrovista onboard as a Perennial Partner. Their continued support for the amenity sector, as showcased in their fantastic #ForOurSports campaign, is truly inspiring. Their proactive and dedicated approach to customer support deeply resonates with us at Perennial. Together, we look forward to making a significant impact in the industry.”
Perennial is the UK’s sole charity supporting all those working in the horticultural community, as well as those who have retired, who dedicate their passion, time, and energy to keeping Britain beautiful. Established 185 years ago, Perennial provides a lifeline to individuals and families in horticulture facing a wide
range of challenges. The ultimate aim is for everyone to know that Perennial is there for them. That not only is there free, tailored one-toone confidential support on hand when needed, but that everyone can access the free advice and information available 24/7 online, covering topics such as physical and mental health issues, bereavement, relationship breakdowns, career progression, as well as impartial money management. By offering the right information and support at the time it is needed, the charity aims to help build better lives for all those within the horticultural industry.
Agrovista Amenity’s #ForOurSports campaign symbolises the company’s commitment to standing by its customers every step of the way, while also celebrating the dedication of individuals in the amenity sector. Over the past two years, the campaign has flourished through various initiatives, including branded vehicles, community events, industry award sponsorships, and support for local charities.
Jodie Champion, Head of Marketing for Agrovista, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Through the #ForOurSports
campaign, we aim to demonstrate our support for our customers and our determination to tackle future challenges alongside them.”
This partnership is not just about financial contributions. Agrovista Amenity is also committed to raising awareness about Perennial’s free and confidential helpline. With the company’s extensive marketing reach and local amenity teams, customers can be informed that help is readily available should they ever need it.
“We are inspired by the remarkable work that Perennial does,” continued Jodie. “By joining forces with them, we hope to highlight that there is compassionate assistance available for those who need it.”
This collaboration between Agrovista Amenity and Perennial highlights a shared commitment to the well-being of professionals in the amenity sector, ensuring that support and resources are accessible when needed most. With Mental Health Awareness Week emphasising the importance of mental well-being, this partnership comes at a crucial time, reinforcing the message that help and support are always available for those who need it.
n www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity
CARBON GOLD ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH WESTLAND HORTICULTURE
Carbon Gold, the world’s leading biochar brand, is proud to announce a new partnership with Westland Horticulture. Established in 2007, Carbon Gold has pioneered advancements in the biochar industry, achieving B-Corp certification and earning The King’s Royal Warrant. Their Soil Association-approved products, underpinned by nearly two decades of research and development, have set industry standards for sustainable soil management.
This partnership marks a significant milestone as it introduces a range of enriched biochar products to conventional garden retailers for the first time. Home gardeners will now have accessible solutions to naturally improve the health of their soil, sequester carbon and mitigate climate in a simple, accessible and sustainable way.
Biochar production is a scientifically verified Negative Emissions Technology CO2 removal process, recognised as a Nature Based Solution. By converting unutilised woody biomass into biochar through net negative pyrolysis technology, Carbon Gold removes CO2 from the atmosphere. Biochar serves as a carbon sink when integrated into soil or substrates, contributing to environmental sustainability.
For over a decade, Carbon Gold products have been used professionally
by commercial fruit and vegetable growers, professional tree growers, sports turf such as Premier League football clubs, racing and golf courses and in urban landscaping. Home growers and gardeners will now have greater access to enriched biochar products which rejuvenate tired soils and compost, naturally hold water in summer months and allow for quicker rooting when planting out.
Westland, a world-leader in peat-free technology, sees this partnership with Carbon Gold as a strategic enhancement to its portfolio, bolstering offerings for consumers and professional growers alike while reinforcing Westland’s dedication to sustainable horticulture.
Keith Nicholson, Marketing Director at Westland Horticulture said: “Enriched biochar has an important role to play in the future of sustainable gardening.
Carbon Gold has developed a range of environmentally conscious products that we will bring to many gardeners going forward.”
Executive Chairman, Craig Sams, added: “We’re excited for this partnership with Westland.
“We’re confident that working together will encourage gardeners to choose a more environmentallyfriendly approach, with biochar at its heart.”
n www.carbongold.com
Hard and soft landscaping
Pro Flora helping to boost biodiversity at Woolley Park GC
After witnessing good results with the Johnsons J All Bent mixture, Woolley Park Golf Club are now enjoying similar success with new eco-friendly areas created with DLF’s Pro Flora range. The project to enhance habitats and encourage diversity of wildlife has gathered pace in recent years under the stewardship of Head Greenkeeper John Rowbottom who, with the help of DLF’s Stuart Yarwood, has not only boosted biodiversity but brought new life to previously unmanageable areas.
The West Yorkshire club are longstanding users of seed mixtures from DLF. “We’ve used many different mixtures over the years, and specifically J All Bent for the last five. This just seems to really suit our conditions” explains John, who has worked at Woolley Park since its inception in 1995.
“We’ve got USGA spec root zone and we’ve found that the bent grass thrives here, the benefits of which are two-fold – improving the quality of the sward and helping us in the constant fight against Poa, with the Bent outcompeting fescues and other varieties.”
Oversown twice a year during spring and autumn renovations, the reliability and results of the J All Bent programme on the greens is ongoing, allowing John to turn his attention to the viability of other areas. “During the COVID lockdowns we had the time to fully appreciate the rich abundance of wildlife that returned to the site while the course
“I BELIEVE IT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY AS CUSTODIANS OF LAND TO ENSURE WE ARE DOING WHAT WE CAN TO PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT”
was closed. This really kickstarted our trials with wildflower areas, and since then we’ve worked on another patch of land each year with the results getting better and better! It’s been great to see that, as a result of this work, much of the fauna that returned over that time has stayed.”
“For me, it is essential that whatever we do on the course is sympathetic to the environment around it” he adds. So, when a major renovation project two years ago left a large area of ‘unmanageable’ land, it was then that John consulted with his DLF Regional Technical Manager Stuart Yarwood for advice. “I didn’t want bright, bold colours, instead something more subtle and in keeping with the surroundings that would provide
some cover and habitat for pheasants and ground nesting birds.”
Stuart recommended Pro Flora 13, delivering a species-rich mix of UK native origin wildflowers and fine leaved low growing grasses.
“This has given us exactly what we wanted and, visually, blends in brilliantly beside our in-play areas.”
“I believe it is our responsibility as custodians of land to ensure we are doing what we can to protect the environment, and this is something both Stuart and I are keen to continue developing with our wildflower projects. We are incredibly fortunate to be able to look after 150 acres of land and seeing golfers and wildlife out there enjoying what we craft is priceless.”
n www.dlf.co.uk
welcome to the ‘insideoutside living experience’
Springwell Gardens is a prestigious 31-million-pound project in Leeds. It comprises 16 storeys and 223 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.
Funded by Leeds-based developer Citylife, Springwell Gardens will create a new relationship of building to skyline, increasing residential capacity in the city.
Located just a 10-minute walk from Leeds train station, this progressive development encourages insideoutside living experiences to foster
inclusive communities and aims to provide the best of city living for the people of Leeds. The new building includes private roof terraces with skyline views, private courtyards, and communal gardens for residents to enjoy community leisure space.
Palmer Landscapes was awarded the landscaping contract, which included the creation of extensive rooftop gardens and communal gardens. They turned to Green-tech to supply over 100m3 of Green-tree
Intensive Roof Garden Substrate and 28m 3 of lightweight subsoil.
Green-tree Intensive Roof Garden
Substrate is a blend of lightweight aggregate and award-winning Green-tree topsoil. It is ideal for green roof construction projects and particularly containerised planting. Intensive roofs are heavier and deeper green roofs and their growing media ranges in thickness from 200mm to 1000mm. This deeper soil allows intensive roofs to accommodate large plants and plant groupings. The excellent waterholding capacities of Green-tree
Intensive Roof Garden Substrate ensure healthy plants and trees in a roof garden environment.
Green-tree’s lightweight Roof Garden Subsoil is a specially designed blend to complement and work in conjunction with our Intensive and Podium Deck Roof Garden substrates. The product is a blend of lightweight aggregate
THE EXCELLENT WATERHOLDING CAPACITIES OF GREEN-TREE INTENSIVE ROOF GARDEN SUBSTRATE ENSURE HEALTHY PLANTS AND TREES IN A ROOF GARDEN ENVIRONMENT.
and specially selected washed silica sand. The sand has been sourced to give the substrate optimum drainage properties and offer good levels of aeration.
Senior Key Account Manager Mark Browne explains, “Green-tech has a long-term and established relationship with Palmer Landscapes. Coupled with our ability to supply materials with a quick turnaround made us their first choice. We supplied the Green-tree intensive substrate loose on demand, so we needed consistent and clear communication between Palmers, the sales team and our operations team to ensure the product was delivered as and when required.”
Ryan Horsman, Head Estimator at Palmers adds, “Having Green-tech as a supplier was so helpful as the material was readily available.”
n www.green-tech.co.uk
Elohim Tisserand
Scott MacCallum meets Elohim Tisserand, pictured right with landscape designer Dan Hartley. Elohim is a man with many strings to his bow who made a real splash at BBC Gardeners’ World Live
A new star emerges
“YOU GO IN WITH THE INTENTION OF DOING WELL, SO TO BE ABLE TO WALK AWAY WITH THE PLATINUM AWARD AND BEST BUILD IS A GREAT FEELING FOR MY FULL TEAM AND MYSELF.”
After talking with Elohim Tisserand for 45 minutes, a small part of me really disliked the guy. It wasn’t his fault, but he just made me feel bad about myself, inadequate even.
I get by, relatively well I suppose, communicating in one languageElohim is bilingual. I like drinking wine - Elohim comes from a respected French wine-making family. I can conjure up a mean chilli con carne - Elohim was a chef in one of Jamie Oliver’s pubs. I’m not too bad with the pruners in the garden - Elohim is a qualified tree surgeon. A surgeon!
My first aid qualification has lapsed.
And, to top it all, Elohim and landscape designer, Dan Hartley, got together to produce a show garden at the recent BBC Gardeners’ World Live Show in Birmingham. Not only was it the first time they had worked together, it was the first time either of them had built a show garden. It would be fair to say they nailed it. Not only did the Eco Oasis Garden win Best Show Garden and the Platinum Award, it won the Best Construction Landscaper prize too –especially pleasing for Elohim and his company, Tisserand English Gardens.
I’m sure I wouldn’t be the only one to feel that Elohim was nearer
the head of the queue when it came to dishing out the talents!
“Winning at BBC Gardeners’ World is massive for us. We put a lot of time and effort into, not only the build, but the planning, the organisation, not to mention the money. I had my full team there for the first week and then scaled down to three of us for the last two weeks. That’s a lot for a small company like mine,” he said.
“You go in with the intention of doing well, so to be able to walk away with the Platinum Award and Best Build is a great feeling for my full team and myself.”
Elohim’s involvement with the Eco Oasis Garden came about
} through his membership of the Association of Professional Landscapers and one of the cluster meetings, which bring members and like-minded people together.
“I wasn’t at this particular meeting, but Dan was there. He said that he’d been accepted to design a garden for BBC Gardeners’ World and that he was looking for a contractor. I do quite a lot on social media, I post stories every day, and, because my name is out there, some people recommended me. He called me, I said yes and we went from there,” said Elohim.
Elohim and Dan’s personalities complemented each other’s perfectly, as they were very much a yin and yang combo.
“I would say that I’m a bit more of a powerhouse and Dan is more reserved. I’m the one who would ruffle feathers, if things weren’t quite right. Having run my own company for over 10 years I know I have to be a strong guy. What I’ve learned over that time is that you have to have uncomfortable conversations, but that they should always be solution driven.”
He has strong views about the respective roles throughout any project whether it be a Show Garden or a project within his regular work schedule.
“The contractor is in charge of the build and is there to achieve the highest standards possible while the designer is there to oversee
and to make any last minute design tweaks. But mostly they are there to carry out the planting.
“In other words the designer has the vision, and the contractor has to make that vision become a reality. Between them they have to value engineer every little aspect. Does it work? Is it buildable? Can we do it within the given budget?”
With the Eco Oasis Garden Dan and Elohim were given £15,000 by the APL towards the build, while Elohim managed to bring in four further sponsors – London Stone, Carpenter’s Mate, Gr8 Tool Hire and Pro Tiler – with whom he had close working relationships.
The finished garden didn’t change much from the initial plans
other than by a few tweaks.
“The wooden structure was meant to be painted but I changed it to burnt – the Japanese techniqueYakisugi – of charring the wood. It was more sustainable and added texture. We also changed the paths from porcelain to cobbled.
I had some cobbles left in the yard, so I called Dan and asked if I should bring them over,” explained Elohim, who also built the table which featured in the garden to save a little on the budget.
“When designers are open minded with the contractor that’s when the relationship works really well as it allows them to have a little more freedom of expression while respecting the core design,” he said,
then wondering out loud, what a garden designed by contractors and built by designers would look like!
“I loved working on the show garden. We met so many lovely people during the show itself and we were able to explain more about the company. It’s the glamour, the fun of building something with your colleagues, with other landscapers building the garden next door to you. It’s such a cool place to be, like-minded people striving for the same kind of quality.
“But hopefully this win will also mean that more people within the industry will know about us and want to work with Tisserand English Gardens.
“If the money was good, I would
“WHEN DESIGNERS ARE OPEN MINDED WITH THE CONTRACTOR THAT’S WHEN THE RELATIONSHIP WORKS REALLY WELL AS IT ALLOWS THEM TO HAVE A LITTLE MORE FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION WHILE RESPECTING THE CORE DESIGN”
“I HAVE STARTED TO DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY... BEFORE I USED TO JUST SEND OUT AN EMAIL WITH THE QUOTE AND WAIT FOR CUSTOMERS TO GET BACK IN TOUCH. NOW I TAKE THE TIME TO GO AND VISIT THEM IN PERSON AND TALK THEM THROUGH THE QUOTE, WHERE THE MONEY IS GOING ETC. IT SHOWS THEM THAT YOU VALUE THEIR MONEY, AND THEIR PROJECT, AND IT MEANS EVERYTHING IS DONE VERY THOROUGHLY AND PROFESSIONALLY.”
build show garden after show garden, for sure,” he said, spoken as the young fit person he is.
Elohim has lived in England for 17 years - he has an English motherbut was brought up on a vineyard in the Beaujolais region of France. He studied farming at school and then wine making, a career path that always seemed his destiny.
“My old boss was the famous wine maker, Marcel Lapierre, and he told me that to be a good wine maker you needed to understand food and understand flavours. He suggested that I go and work in a kitchen. So when I came to England I worked as a chef in Jamie Oliver’s pub, The Cricketers, in Clavering, near Bishop’s Stortford, for a few years.”
It was then that he met his wife, Jessica, who has been a huge influence on his subsequent career.
“The plan was for us to set up a vineyard in England and when I left The Cricketers we were planning to go to South Africa for a wine tour. I was set on making wine in the UK.”
“To finance the trip I started a garden maintenance company just to keep me ticking over but it really took off. I’d worked on the gardens at Audley End House, the English Heritage property, when I first came over so I knew what I was doing. Plus it was better
money than working in a kitchen – I was charging £10 an hour and thought I had it all sussed out!”
It was at this point that Jessica filled the skills’ gap – perhaps his only one – in Elohim’s armoury. Even Achilles had an dodgy heel!
“I’m heavily dyslexic, so my reading and writing are very poor. In this industry a lot of people work off their mobiles while they are working and it makes taking notes and remembering calls very tricky. Jessica began making the appointments, booking the jobs for me and generally doing my planning. All of a sudden I was really reliable.
“I became quite known in the area very quickly. I then employed my big brother, a botanist who brought the knowledge of plants to the company, while I employed more people to keep pace with the work. We started doing landscaping and the company grew.”
It was at this point that Elohim completed his chainsaw course, which added a third string to the Tisserand English Garden bow – garden maintenance, landscaping and tree surgery - and the company grew.
“You can grow really fast, that’s not a problem, but it’s hard to maintain, so after six years we decided to change our approach. The money was good but I wasn’t enjoying it.”
That change involved shedding the garden maintenance and the tree surgery arms of the company and focusing on what had become his real love – landscaping.
“It was a chapter of my life that I just had to put away, but it was hard as I’d had customers for over 10 years and they had become friends,” said Elohim, who actually closed those two elements of the company rather than sell them.
“Now we are doing high-end landscaping projects with a
number of wonderful designers and the approach of my company is very different to what it was, but for the best. We make less money but I’m happier.”
Having enjoyed the boom time in the industry which came as a consequence of Covid ,this year has been harder as people are not so willing to spend money while some jobs, already scheduled in have been cancelled.
“It makes you feel the need to be more responsive and I have started to do things differently. How I present my quotes for example. Before I used to just send out an email with the quote and wait for them to get back in touch. Now I take the time to go and visit them in person and talk them through the quote, where the money is going etc. It shows them that you value their money, and their project, and it means everything is done very thoroughly and professionally.
“These hard times make you think about how best to go about things.
Landscaping is a beautiful industry, so creative, but it is a luxury item. Obviously it is good for your mental health to have somewhere to retreat among nature, but people can get by without a lovely garden.”
But there are still big jobs out there for Tisserand English Gardens to get its teeth into.
“Eight years ago we were doing jobs of around £20,000, £30,000, £40,000 which is still a lot of money but now we are carrying out jobs up to £400,000. People with bigger houses and bigger budgets makes you slightly more recession proof but the people who understand money know when to spend and when not to spend.
“In some ways these clients are harder to price for because they don’t get rich by throwing their money away.”
Elohim’s wife, Jessica, has been a huge influence on his career
The juxtaposition in the name Tisserand English Gardens came at the suggestion of his English father-in-law to make the company name stand out and pop.
“English people love their gardens and their gardens are like nothing anywhere else in the world. The French, for example, see their gardens as places to eat out in the sun and to produce vegetables. They don’t have the same level of love for their gardens.”
And what of the future...?
“I would like to have one more team on the road, bringing it up to three, while we are working on having a showroom. It would be somewhere where clients planning their gardens can come and meet myself and the designer to look at samples directly – garden rooms, lighting, everything that we do. A hub for my clients to come and have a look.
“I’d love that, and I’d love
to do more show gardens. Chelsea would be lovely.
“Fingers crossed it will happen one day but then Chelsea is different gravy, isn’t it?”
Different gravy indeed, but then so is Elohim and while there are elements of him which I still dislike I can’t help thinking that he will make a success of whatever he does next.
n Tisserandenglish
Elohim, second from left, with the full team. Not only did the Eco Oasis Garden win Best Show Garden and the Platinum Award, it won the Best Construction Landscaper prize
Reinforcing the ground rules
When it comes to the success of ground reinforcement tiles, much depends on the supporting layers underneath. Here, Angus Crichton, Marketing Manager at ACO House and Garden, speaks with Rupert Keys of TASK Academy and draws on his 34 years of landscaping experience to lay out best practise when it comes to the installation of ground reinforcement tiles.
Grass and gravel are timeless landscaping choices. You can’t beat the green swathe of a lawn or the satisfying crunch of gravel under foot. But if regularly crossed by people or vehicles, grass
becomes a muddy track, gravel scatters and moving anything wheeled across it is hard work.
The solution is ground reinforcement grids. The grid transfers weight to the ground below, protecting grass and preventing ruts. The honeycomb cells lock gravel in place, reducing scatter and improving access. Gravel and grass supported by grids can be used on front driveways to disperse rainwater where it lands, which is both a legislative requirement and an environmental must, as rainwater runoff contributes to sewage overflows.
The hidden layers beneath are just as important to deliver a permeable and stable surface. Therefore, I turned to Rupert Keys for expert advice on how to successfully install ground reinforcement tiles. Rupert is the founder of landscaping training centre TASK Academy and
has been involved in the creation of more than 60 show gardens during his more-than three decades in the landscaping industry.
1. Test the ground
The first thing that you’re going to want to do is test the ground you’re going to be excavating out because you don’t know how solid it is, and not just on the surface. This can have an impact on the depth of the sub-base required. A trial pit or a core sample will reveal if the sandy soil on the surface turns to clay 300mm down. If you send a soil sample to the lab for a California Bearing Ratio Test, you can find out the compaction properties of the soil. You can then adapt the depth of sub-base in accordance with the soil conditions below, as well as allowing for the weight of traffic above. It’s always useful to get a structural engineer involved, and choose a
grid that is the right strength for what is expected to travel over it.
2. Build a secure sub-base
Having a secure sub-base is relatively straightforward and is an important part of the project’s stability and longevity. I always keep three rules in mind when creating a secure sub-base:
Rule 1: Free-draining layers. To stabilise the soil and ensure permeability to the surface water above, put down MOT Type 3. This open-graded sub-base material has reduced fines, which increases its permeability, yet compacts tightly for load bearing.
Rule 2: Separate the layers. Sandwich the MOT Type 3 between two layers of geotextile membrane. The geotextile stops soil coming up into the sub-base and stone moving down into the soil. Without a membrane, you’ll get insects
and worms bringing up soil into MOT Type 3 and clogging up its permeable spaces, and stone travelling down, causing sinking. Rule 3: Lay and compact layers in stages. Sub-bases should be compacted in layers of no more than 75mm in depth at a time. You don’t want to be compacting 200mm of sub-base all in one go because the compaction is not getting down to the bottom. It’s just going to sink when trafficked.
3. Lay the tiles
You might find that your finished MOT Type 3 is undulating, so I use a thin blinding of sharp sand (or more free-draining grano dust) over the top of the MOT just to take out any dips or hollows. Having compacted this laying course, the grids go down on top of that in a stretcher pattern, breaking up joints between rows like with brickwork.
This is all after we’ve laid some edgings. These retain the gravel, hold everything in place and stop spread, particularly when a vehicle turns. You could use nice block paving, concrete curbs, or solid metal edging. If grids are installed on a slope, pin them into the ground.
4. Finish with gravel or grass
For gravel, you would probably lay something between 10-14mm. You don’t want anything too big as you want that gravel to sit in the honeycomb effect of the grid system. For grass, add and level off soil into the grids and then sow. Make sure it is good quality topsoil, without any compost, firmed down but not over-compacted so the roots bind all that soil together. If it is dry, water the grass a couple of times a week until it is established.
How can landscapers learn more?
Rupert started TASK Academy to give his years of experience to people walking through the door as students, to encourage the younger generation into landscaping. At ACO, we support TASK Academy as an industry partner, contributing to boosting the skills of future landscapers. Those who are interested in undertaking a hands-on landscaping course led by industry experts can find more information on the TASK Academy website. n www.ACO.co.uk
TOP CLASS CRICKET AND IRRIGATION FOR YET ANOTHER YEAR AT RAINHAM
The historic Rainham Cricket Club in Kent is all set for the 2024 season and once again the club’s reputation for providing some of the best prepared pitches in the Kent cricket leagues will be demonstrated. This is all thanks to hard working and dedicated volunteer grounds staff as well as the continued support of Holts Irrigation who in 2021 installed a Rain Bird irrigation system.
Preparing pitches to the highest standard follows a procedure that can take anything from 10-14 days. There are 17 pitches on the Rainham square with at least two in use at any time. In 2021 it became clear that a new approach to pitch preparation was required with irrigation a key issue. This was reliant on connecting a hosepipe to the mains water supply and running across a 50+ metre square. Irrigation could take as long as two days to complete and could include overnight watering.
Not only was the water quantity that reached the square insufficient, but the pressure was too low. There was no prospect of irrigating the square uniformly and, with its slope, water would also run away.
A series of long dry spells during that summer also meant that any surface water quickly evaporated.
The club was put in touch with Holts Irrigation, a company with extensive experience in sports turf irrigation. Andre Holt recommended a completely new approach based around the installation of a Rain Bird ESP-RZXe irrigation controller to manage six 950 Series pop up rotor sprinklers, as well as a 10000 litre water tank complete with a Grundfos submersible pump and controller. With close cooperation between grounds staff and Holts Irrigation, the full installation was completed within a week.
Four of the 950 Series rotors with double nozzles and 90º arcs are positioned at the corners of the square and the other two at
the side which have 180º arcs. They can throw to a distance of up to 28.0 metres providing head to head 100% uniform coverage across the square. The ESP-RZXe controller has a large LCD screen and a simple user interface. With its rapid programming feature it was simple for Andre to set up and is ideal for grounds staff to carry out additional manual functions.
The controller offers many irrigation scheduling options and in practice, during the playing season, it runs a minimum of two heads.
The rotors are set up to irrigate the pitches that are to be used at the weekend and they are also turned on after play on a Sunday evening.
Glen Cook is the Club’s Groundsman and Secretary. He has the flexibility to apply additional manual irrigation throughout the season when required during dry spells or when carrying out pitch maintenance including reseeding and repairing used pitches. “We can put down fertilisers and soil conditioners at any time we feel necessary as we now don’t need to
rely on the weather to water it in if we have a dry early spring. We are also no longer reliant on waiting for the right weather before we carry out any renovation work and can simply turn on the irrigation system. This is flexible and convenient as well as helping with conservation, as water is applied only when and where it is needed,” says Glen.
Since the installation, Rainham Cricket Club has received praise for the quality of its playing surfaces. The irrigation system makes it much easier for the grounds staff to build on the great cricket surface already established over recent years by the previous groundsman.
“Andre’s knowledge of sports turf irrigation has helped to transform the management and upkeep of our pitches. As the 2024 season progresses and the drier spells become more prolonged and frequent, the irrigation system will really come into its own. It’s been a very worthwhile investment and will virtually guarantee the quality of our playing surfaces throughout the summer,” says Glen.
Hard and soft landscaping
The sustainable solution: Kress robotic mowers
With Kress RTKn mowers, Kress showcases the pinnacle of possibilities in automated mowing. These mowers integrate advanced technologies such as RTKn (Real-time kinematic to the power of network), MAP (Mowing Action Plan), and OAS (Obstacle Avoidance System) with new innovations, setting a new benchmark for performance and precision in turf care.
The Kress RTKn mowers utilise a real-time kinematic network, eliminating the need for traditional powered antennas. This innovation not only makes the system immune to power surge damages, enhancing its reliability and resilience, but also avoids the extra costs and eyesores associated with line-of-sight aerials, this ensures the aesthetic and beauty of the landscape is preserved.
The Mowing Action Plan optimises the mowing pattern for efficiency, ensuring complete and systematic coverage of the area.
Its Obstacle Avoidance System sensors and algorithms enable the mower to detect and navigate around obstacles, minimising the risk of damage and ensuring uninterrupted operation.
Kress mowers excel on sloped areas, showcasing their exceptional performance even on uneven terrain. They are engineered to manage slopes of up to 20 degrees effortlessly, ensuring consistent and even mowing. This superior slopehandling ability sets Kress mowers apart, making them an ideal choice for landscapers seeking robust and versatile mowing solutions.
There are significantly lower
labour costs and a reduction energy bills with unmanned mowers. The durability and advanced technology reduce maintenance expenses.
These mowers provide a quiet, emission-free alternative to traditional mowing methods, contributing to a healthier environment and sustainability goals. Switching from petrol mowers to Kress RTKn robotic mowers can significantly reducing your carbon footprint.
The operational savings and other benefits provided by Kress RTKn make it a smart investment for any landscaper. The efficiency, reliability, and technological advancements set a new standard in commercial turf care. n kress.com/en-gb/rtknwithout-boundary-wire
Makita launches brushless blower
Makita has launched a new high-power blower to join its growing range of outdoor equipment. The UB003C 36V Blower combines comfort and functionality with a high-performance brushless motor and battery system to deliver a maximum air velocity of 86m/s and long run times, making it the perfect companion for grounds maintenance professionals.
Lightweight and comfortable to use, the new UB003C offers an average blowing force of 24N, a maximum air volume 17.6m3 per second, and air velocity up to 86m per second. For clearing large areas, this machine can provide a continuous run time of up to 60 minutes from a single charge. This is made possible by attaching Makita’s backpack battery system to the machine, for all-day work and performance without the hassle of using petrol or power cables. Specifically, rather than conventional batteries, the UB003C can either be connected to either
the PDC1200 (33.5Ah) or PDC1500 (43.5Ah) Portable Power Packs as part of the manufacturer’s ConnectX system, or to Makita’s PDC01 battery backpack (all sold separately).
The UB003C blower features a 3-stage telescopic nozzle with an adjustment range of 100mm. For user comfort, the tilted nozzle reduces the reaction force and recoil of the machine, thereby reducing the burden on the arm. The machine offers a variety of usage options, including variable speed control, cruise control and constant speed control.
Matt Chilton, Product Manager at Makita UK commented: “This is an extremely versatile tool that affords users with more flexibility over their work. The compatibility of the UB003C with our ConnectX Portable Power Packs is what makes this blower stand out – enabling maintenance professionals to complete larger tasks with ease, with up to an hour of high performance blowing.”
n www.makitauk.com
