THE LANDSCAPER 226 MARCH 2018 by The Landscaper

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ISSUE 226 | £3.95

MARCH 2018

COVER STORY: STIHL PLUS WILDFLOWERS | ARBORIST HORTICULTURE | HARDSCAPER www.stihl.co.uk

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A great career choice On March 19 at RHS Garden Wisley, Tommy Walsh - into schools and announced the national launch of GoLandscape. colleges to present A BALI initiative, GoLandscape is an outreach students, and their programme, supported by a comprehensive website parents and teachers, that provides easily accessible information and with the facts about resources for anyone wanting to find out more the industry and the about the many and varied career opportunities the many challenging and landscape industry has to offer. worthwhile careers it Of concern is the fact that a recent survey of students offers. indicated that only 7 per cent had been advised by their The scheme needs school or college to consider a career in horticulture, landscape and gardening or botany. The perception that the grounds maintenance horticulture sector is a route contractors, garden and landscape best suited to ‘low achievers’ designers, and industry product and has to be changed if the service suppliers to engage with landscape industry is to attract the programme by volunteering as the calibre of young people it GoLandscape ambassadors in their needs to fill vacancies across local areas. many disciplines. With staff shortages, aggravated by the GoLandscape’s mission is to BREXIT vote, this is an excellent and much change false perceptions and needed initiative. misunderstandings about the I suspect it will be a great success as landscape industry by sending many young people nowadays regard industry professionals – a career looking at a screen 24/7 with COVER STORY: ‘GoLandscape Ambassadors’ apprehension.

LANDSCAPER

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SPRING AT LAST?

MARCH 2018

ISSUE 226 | £3.95

STIHL PLUS

WILDFLOWERS | ARBO RIST HORTICULTURE | HARD SCAPER www.stihl.co.uk

Front cover STIHL is set to launch a new cordless KombiEngine in May 2018, the lightest in the entire range, that is compatible with not only all current Stihl KombiTools, but also four new Kombi attachments, as the manufacturer continues to broaden its cordless product offering to the professional user. Weighing only 3.2kg for the powerhead and shaft, the new KMA 130 R is a powerful and lightweight cordless KombiEngine with high torque, low vibration and is 800

THE UK NUMB ’S LANDSC ER 1 AP INDUST ING RY MAGAZIN E

grams lighter than its petrol alternative (KM 94 RC-E). Used in conjunction with the AR backpack batteries or the AP battery belt, the KMA 130 R utilises three power levels to enhance energy efficiency, is ideally suited to work in applications in noise-sensitive areas and can be comfortably used for a prolonged period of time due to its low vibration levels. For more information on the KMA 130 R or STIHL’s extensive range of cordless machinery, please visit www.stihl.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

High quality wildflower seed, prepared by hand and supplied to specification John Chambers is a leading supplier of British native wildflower seeds, mixes and bulbs for every project and budget. • Heritage Range: A portfolio of British native mixes developed and planted over the last 30 years. Renowned for quality and cleanliness of the seed. • Professional Range: Seed for the professional installer. Includes mixes of more commonly found species to suit a wide variety of growing conditions. • Impact Range: Vibrant and colourful seed mixes to create a feature of any landscaping project. • Conservation Range: Carefully selected, balanced wildflower mixes that provide colour and food to attract desired wildlife, including bats, bumblebees and wild birds.

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xx CONTENTS editor / publisher David Curtis tel: 020 8891 4850 07780 967735 (m) david@landscapermagazine.com features Carol Dutton Ffion Llwyd-Jones Claudia de Yong James de Havilland Jana Silver Liam Campbell Tabitha Grammaticus-Smythe Con Crowley commercial manager Matthew Curtis tel: 020 8891 4850 matthew@landscapermagazine.com

sales & marketing executive Jana Silver tel: 020 8891 4850 jana@landscapermagazine.com

March 2018

design and production Lucas-studio.co.uk multimedia and video tel: 020 8891 4850 david@landscapermagazine.com

Latest News ............................................. 06

circulation and subscriptions tel: 020 8891 4850 matthew@landscapermagazine.com

Wildflowers............................................... 32

The Landscaper is owned and published by Curtis Media Ltd.

Motoring.................................................... 30

The Landscaper is an entirely independent magazine. It is not a member of any trade association or society.

Mowers....................................................... 38

Curtis Media Ltd Fourth Floor 18-20 Hill Rise Richmond Surrey TW10 6UA

Hardscaper ............................................... 44 Arborist ..................................................... 48 Power tools .............................................. 50

Lighting ..................................................... 52 Horticulture ............................................. 55

Nothing in this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. Readers intending to purchase goods or services from advertisers should make their own enquiries if in any doubt. Every endeavour has been made to ensure that all the information published in this magazine is as accurate as possible. Neither the publishers nor their agents can be held responsible for any errors or omissions; nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to any person acting on the information contained in the magazine.

Profile ......................................................... 62 Plant Seeker ............................................. 64 Snippets .................................................... 66

CURTISMEDIA L

Recruitment ............................................. 67

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

NEWS

Awards Entries Open Entries for the 42nd BALI National Landscape Awards are open. This year’s Awards are supported by Headline Sponsor and BALI Registered Affiliate member Greentech. BALI Registered Members are invited to visit the BALI Awards website at baliawards.co.uk to review the entry guidelines and find out about Early Bird deadlines. Entries are submitted online and construction, maintenance and design schemes will be visited by BALI Awards adjudicators between June and August, with the International, Affiliate Exceptional Service and Employer Excellence Awards reviewed by the panel before the National Award winners are announced at the start of September. Final adjudication to determine the Principal and Special Awards and the ultimate accolade of the Grand Award takes place at BALI Landscape House at the end of August. The Awards ceremony is on Friday 7th December at Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London, and attendance is expected to again exceed 1000, making the BALI National Landscape Awards the largest landscape industry Awards in the UK and Europe. This year’s Awards host has already been signed up and will be announced with the list of National Award winners. We would like to thank those sponsors who have already committed to this year’s Awards:

Adtrak Bourne Amenity British Sugar TOPSOIL Crowders Nurseries Easigrass Europlants UK Fresh Horticultural Careers Johnsons of Whixley Natural Paving Products, a member of the Talasey Group Todd’s Nursery TORO Reesink Turfcare For entry guidelines and Early Bird deadlines, visit www.baliawards.co.uk

Gold Trusted Service Award The Feefo Gold Service award, an independent seal of excellence that recognises businesses for delivering exceptional experiences, as rated by real customers has been awarded to Rolawn for another year.

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Created by Feefo, Trusted Service is awarded only to those businesses that use Feefo to collect genuine ratings and reviews. Those that meet the high standard, based on the number of reviews collected and average rating, are awarded a badge of honour. This accreditation is a true reflection of a business’s commitment to outstanding service as all reviews are verified unique from bone fide customers. Rolawn met the criteria of collecting at least 50 reviews between 1st January 2017 and 31st December 2017, with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 5.0. Jonathan Hill, Sales & Marketing Director, Rolawn commented: “It’s a real honour to receive this award from Feefo. To be recognised for delivering exceptional service over an extended time period with products that are heavily influenced by the UK weather is testimony to everyone’s hard work. Being able to listen to our customers helps us

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NEWS to understand and respond to their needs, ensuring we are always striving to improve the buying experience. 2017 was a great year for us, 2018 has started well and we are very much looking forward to the year ahead.” Speaking on this year’s award, Andrew Mabbutt, CEO at Feefo, commented: ‘The Trusted Service award has always been about recognising those companies that go the extra mile. Once again, we have seen many incredible businesses using Feefo to its full potential, to provide truly memorable

experiences for their customers – and rightly being awarded with our most prestigious accreditation. I look forward to the continual success of the businesses that work in partnership with Feefo throughout 2018.’ Feefo is a ratings and reviews, and customer analytics platform that provides the tools to collect genuine, purchase-verified reviews on behalf of over 4,000 businesses. www.rolawn.co.uk

Green Future for Apprentices Glendale’s commitment to tackling skills shortages and unemployment is reflected in the number of staff undergoing apprenticeships within the business. Apprentices make up 8.5 per cent of the national green

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service provider’s current workforce, compared to 5.8 per cent in 2016. It’s a figure the firm is continually working to increase as part of its membership of The 5% Club. The 5% Club is designed to get the UK’s public and private sector companies to commit to having five per cent of its total workforce as apprentices, sponsored students or graduates within five years. Glendale is also reminding businesses of the benefits of apprentices during National Apprenticeship Week, 5 - 9 March. This year’s theme is ‘Apprenticeships Work.’ The company recently collected an accolade for its apprenticeship scheme from industry magazine Pro Landscaper’s Business Awards. Last year Glendale was also involved in designing a new 12-month apprenticeship in arboriculture in partnership with Cornwall College, with the aim of increasing the quality of training available in the industry. Sue McGrath (left), group HR director at Glendale, said: “We are proud to be a part of The 5% Club, it’s an initiative that can really make a difference to the lives of people looking to gain new skills and improve their prospects. The fact that the number of apprentices within the company is continuing to grow is a reflection of our commitment in this area. “Our apprentices are invaluable to the business and it’s imperative that we and other employers provide individuals with ample opportunities for practical training and the qualifications required to build careers. “National Apprenticeship Week is the perfect time to shine the spotlight on the many benefits apprenticeships offer to individuals and organisations, while encouraging more people to get involved and see where it could take them. “We also need to remind people that apprenticeships are not just limited to younger people; by taking on apprentices in a range of ages, employers can benefit from experience and transferable skills gained from previous roles.”

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

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Safer Hedge Trimming BALI-NCF, the grounds maintenance industry’s National Contractors Forum and STIHL GB recently joined forces to deliver best-in-class hedge trimmer training to 30 contractor companies at four land-based colleges across the UK. Safety is at the top of BALI-NCF’s agenda and deems creating a safe working environment for the industry’s workforce as critical. In 2017, BALI-NCF member organisations shared accident statistics to determine the main causes of the most frequently occurring accidents. This collaboration highlighted incorrect hedge trimmer use as a major risk to safety, galvanising BALI-NCF to develop the necessary training to provide technical advice and safety guidance. Using the ‘train the trainer’ approach, the experts from STIHL instructed more than 200 on-site trainers, who left the sessions with the training materials and knowledge to deliver the operator training course to their own teams, potentially enabling thousands of the UK’s grounds maintenance workforce to carry out hedge trimming more safely. The programme provided a combination of classroom teaching and hands-on practical hedge trimmer use. Topics covered included correct PPE, the effect of noise and vibration exposure, refuelling, good work practices, and how to make both horizontal and vertical cuts. Feedback from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive verifying the initial success of the project. Phil Jones, Chairman of the National Contractors Forum

said: “There is a real will among the NCF members to work together to reduce workplace injuries across our industry. Our goal is for every one of our employees to return safely home each day. We have made a good start in delivering on this, through the expert training delivered by Stihl GB. The ultimate measure of success, however, will be a significant and sustained reduction in injuries within our industry.” Caroline Wallace, Commercial Learning & Development Manager, Stihl GB said: “STIHL was delighted to be offered the opportunity to help raise the standards of safe use of hedge trimmers in the industry.” The half-day sessions were Sparsholt College (South), Harper Adams University (Midlands), Oatridge College (Scotland) and Myerscough College (North).

Carrbridge Gamekeeper Win! Carrbridge gamekeeper and SGA member Ewan Archer won a new Polaris Sportsman 570 in the 2017 SGA raffle. Ewan works at Kinveachy Estate and was handed the keys to the ATV at the organisation’s Perth HQ on Thursday after buying his winning ticket through the SGA member magazine, Scottish Gamekeeper. Flanked by SGA Chairman Alex Hogg, Richard Coleby of Polaris and Iain Stratton of supplier Stratton ATV Ltd, Ewan was delighted to get the first glimpse of his prize. After entering the annual draw every year since the SGA formed 21 years ago, he admitted he entered the 2017 draw more in support than expectation of winning. “Since the outset of the SGA, my family and I have always bought tickets, but I didn’t believe it when my wife informed

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me I had won this year,” Ewan said. “A lot of the estates around about us are using Polaris to great effect for grouse moor management and for day to day getting about. I am very grateful to Polaris. It is a very generous prize.” The 44 horsepower ATV is built for safety off-road, with smooth suspension and all-wheel drive on demand, single lever brake system and automatic transmission. It is already a popular choice on Scottish estates, as Director of Stratton ATV Ltd, Iain Stratton, acknowledged: “Ninety five percent of our custom comes from sporting estates. Many gamekeepers will use them for feeding in areas they can’t reach with bigger machinery and for towing behind game feeders. It is great for deer extraction as well.” SGA Chairman Alex Hogg was delighted to see the 2017

NEWS prize go to a longtime member of the SGA family. On the back of successful partnership, the SGA and Polaris are set to renew their arrangement for 2018, with the raffle prize again set to be provided by the company. “It is really important we have partners like Polaris,” said the SGA Chairman. “I have used a 6-wheeler Polaris UTV for five years. This particular bike is a quality product, very sturdy with a good engine. I am sure it will suit Ewan perfectly.” Polaris UK District Sales Manager Richard Coleby said

the partnership was a win-win for all parties and both organisations are looking to make the most of their continued association in 2018: “Shoots, estates and gamekeepers represent a big market for us, as a business, so it is important to support where we can in Scotland. We are probably the leader in the estates market so it is important for us to maintain profile. All our products are designed for heavy off-road performance so they really suit this type of work.” www.polaris-britain.com

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NEWS

Cost-effective Urban Flowers donated by Rigby Taylor. “The seeds were perfect for adults and children to sow in the gardens, pots or tree pits. They were also a simple way to introduce new people to the world of gardening as well as help provide additional food sources for bees and other pollinators.” Almost 300 miles away in Teesside, Stockton Council – which is a regular user of Rigby Taylor sports ground grass seed, line-marking and amenity products – planted the seeds in seven areas around the borough and, says Dave Askey, “we received lots of compliments”. Councillor Mike Smith, the council’s cabinet member for environment and transport, added: “The wildflower displays were very colourful and eye-catching. We planted them at prominent locations around the borough and got some great feedback. But it’s not just residents who enjoy them – they’re popular with bees, butterflies and other insects, too.” Stockton Council received compliments for its displays of Euroflor urban flowers around the borough.

Leading by design Euroflor urban flowers are a cost-effective way to add long-lasting colourful flower displays to a host of local council areas up and down the country. In London, for example, the flowers played a key role in Islington Council’s winning (Gold Medal) entry into last year’s London in Bloom competition, while for Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council the Euroflor mixes “provided expansive banks of colour that lasted much longer than bedding plants and were so much more cost-effective”, according to Head Ranger Dave Askey. Supplied by Rigby Taylor, the company at the forefront of supplying innovative products for the amenity market, the Euroflor seeds were deemed a vital part of Islington Council’s London in Bloom entry. “The Islington in Bloom campaign launch in April 2017 helped publicise the event to get everyone involved in making the borough as bright and beautiful as possible,” says Sarah Warland, Islington Council’s Parks Performance and Systems Manager, Greenspace and Leisure. “One way we achieved this was by giving away free goody bags (at the launch and other events) which included some fantastic packets of Euroflor urban flower seeds kindly

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

NEWS

Custom Variations SCH (Supplies) Ltd recently supplied a customer with a galvanised version of its popular Hydraulic Tipping Trailer. (Ref HTRL). The customer had asked for the manual tipping version of the trailer, which is also available in two tractorpowered versions (one and two pipe), and an electric version. All metal work on the trailer was galvanised, including the mesh extension sides. In the standard version, SCH supply the trailer metalwork in a paint finish (usually red, but green

can also be specified at time of order to match customer’s tractor). The mesh sides on a standard model are painted black. The standard HTRL has a carrying capacity of 1000kg (1 ton) and is 915mm (36”) wide by 1800mm (72”) long. The customer also requested wider 20-10 x 8 wheels instead of the standard 600 x 9s. SCH is happy to take orders requesting variations to standard builds. www.schsupplies.co.uk

Double Certification SIS Pitches has been announced as a FIH Certified Manufacturer and FIH Certified Field Builder. This makes them the first company within Ireland and the British Isles to be double certified individually by the International Hockey Federation. The double-certification from the FIH recognises SIS Pitches’ expertise in the control over the quality of hockey pitches in every aspect from pitch design, manufacturing construction, installation and maintenance. SIS Pitches, Maryport, Cumbria lays synthetic pitches across the globe, with some of its most prestigious hockey pitch projects located at The University of Manchester, Ben Rhydding Hockey Club, Harrow School and Alive LynnSport, which is the home of the Pelicans hockey team, based in Norfolk. Away from hockey, SIS Pitches is proud to produce high-quality sports surfaces for football and rugby. The firm has constructed and installed SISGrass hybrid technology at six of the 12 pitches at the 2018 football World Cup in Russia,

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including the Luzhniki stadium, home of the opening and final matches of the tournament. Alastair Cox, FIH Facilities and Quality Programme Manager, said: “The consistently high standard of hockey turf manufacturing and the construction quality demonstrated in SIS Pitches’ field building earned them the right to be internationally endorsed by our Quality Programme for Hockey Turf. This is no easy feat. Additionally, their commitment to providing great hockey facilities that support our Hockey Revolution strategy - to make our sport a global game that inspires future generations, was an important factor in their application.” Luke Edwards, Sports Systems Development Manager, SIS Group Ltd, said: “Having previously received FIH Certification for our factory, we’re thrilled to have joined the FIH Certified Builder Programme as this fits perfectly with our philosophy of manufacturing, constructing and installing only the highest quality hockey fields.” www.sispitches.com

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NEWS

New products at Exhibition Green-tech exhibited at EcoBuild 2018 at ExCeL in London, under its specification arm gt Specifier. It is on stand E132, in front of the Ecobuild Conference Arena. Among new products at Ecobuild 2018 was the Tree Anchoring systems range with new Drop Man anchor system exclusively unveiled on the stand. And the new gt specifier brochure has technical information, best practice advice and case studies for landscape architects, designers and contractors, and garden designers. Also launched was the gtProflow Wooden Pavers, a longlasting landscape surface made from recycled wire mesh and Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) blocks, and naturally rotand water-resistant with anti-fungal properties and a lifetime of 50+ years. The team profile the innovative ArborRaft System, which is in high demand for urban tree planting projects across the UK. The system prevents soil compaction in landscaped areas with heavy trafficking. Also on display was an extensive range of Green-tree soils and growing media for landscapes and green roofing projects, sedum cassettes for green roofs, John Chambers native wildflowers and gt Green Screens that

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promote biodiversity in urban landscapes. A new range of contemporary laser-cut tree guards was revealed on the stand. These made-to-order tree guards and grilles are available in several designs and finishes to complement any urban landscape project. A representative from gt Specifier said: “Ecobuild is a great exhibition and provides a perfect platform for us to unveil new products and get instant industry feedback, which I’m delighted to say has all been very positive. There has been a lot of interest in our laser-cut tree guards and grilles, and our new range of tree anchoring systems has been very well received. The show was very busy, and the stand was packed since the doors opened.” www.green-tech.co.uk

Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards 2018 Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year is returning for 2018, with two prizes once again up for grabs. Nick Machin of Royal Cinque Ports was Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year 2017, while Angus Roberts of Roxburghe Hotel & Golf Course became only the second winner of the Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award. Nick said: “The whole process was quite nerve-wracking, but at the same time it was really enjoyable and something I worked hard on. As nervous as I felt at times, I wish I could do it all again! All I can say is that if you are thinking about applying for Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year, then do it. If you know someone you could nominate, then put their name forward and help them to apply. To win the competition is a potentially life-changing event, but it is also one of the best experiences you’ll ever have!” The prize for the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year winner is a six-week scholarship, including travel to the University of Massachusetts to study turf management,

NEWS a trip to the Golf Industry Show and a visit to the Toro factory in Minneapolis. The winner of the Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year award receives a twoweek work placement at the Vidauban Golf Club in France, plus a trip to Continue to Learn at BTME. Major prizes are also available for the awards runners-up and those who nominate the students. Reesink Turfcare is the UK distributor of Toro machinery and irrigation products and one of the award sponsors. Managing Director David Cole, an award judge, said: “We recently caught up with last year’s winners and both have reported similar benefits of winning. It was deemed life-changing and both said it had offered them careerenhancing opportunities they simply wouldn’t have had before. Another point they made was how anyone passionate about greenkeeping should ‘have a go’ and apply. As it was so rightly pointed out, we’re not looking for the ‘perfect’ student, we’re looking for talent and knowledge, of course, but also self-belief, determination and promise. Winning is possible, whoever you are.” The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year award is available to all greenkeeping students studying for eligible qualifications, while the Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of

the Year award is specifically for greenkeeping students aged 20 years and under at the time of the closing date for entries. The deadline for applications is 18 May 2018. Regional interviews take place from 2-13 July 2018, and the national final will take place at BIGGA House, near York, on 17-18 September 2018. To apply to take part in the awards: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/QH75LYL To endorse an application: www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/WCKZXHC

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

NEWS

Winning Wimbledon Visit

Landscape Irrigation Systems Lawn Watering ● Border Drip ● Basket and Planter Watering ● Control Systems ● Trees & Hedges Talk to the experts for free advice and specifications.

much tennis is played on the courts at Wimbledon. In 2017, 658 matches were played totalling 3,177 hours, across 38 grass courts during the championships, in addition to a further 25 tournaments as well as regular usage from the club’s 375 private members who are free to play on the courts until they close in September. After lunch, the award winners received an access-allareas tour by Neil, including a visit to the Centre Court, the media centre, and the current construction works of the No.1 Court. Work on the extensive reconstruction, which will see a retractable roof and wider, more comfortable spectator seating, began after last year’s Championships and is set to be completed in time for the 2019 Championships. Reflecting on the successful day, Mark Pyrah from ICL, who organised the event, said: “We were delighted to welcome the 2017 BALI award winners and show them the world-class facilities at Wimbledon. They were hugely impressed by Neil and his team’s attention to detail. It

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Winners of the 2017 BALI National Landscape Awards recently enjoyed an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the All England Lawn Tennis Club Wimbledon, hosted and organised by ICL and awards headline sponsor Green-tech. The event began with an introduction from Mark Pyrah, ICL’s Landscape & Industrial Manager for UK & Ireland and Tom Parker, Purchasing and Commercial Director of Green-tech, before handing over to Head of Courts and Horticulture Neil Stubley. Neil described the meticulous planning and hard work required to deliver the tennis championships, which is watched by more than one billion people worldwide. He presented an overview of the site and its facilities, which includes 44 grass courts, five indoor courts, eight American Clay courts, eight Plexipave Acrylic courts and three croquet lawns. As well as highlighting the progress of trial work conducted in partnership with the STRI, Neil revealed how

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was a very successful event, and I’d like to thank Neil for his time and expertise in offering us an insight into groundsmanship practices at the highest level.” Tom Parker from Green-tech added: “We feel privileged to have been able to visit such a world-class venue to

celebrate the success of the Bali Award winners. The level of quality, technical development and ambition of Wimbledon is extraordinary and it was amazing to have such an exclusive experience.” www.icl-sf.co.uk

Powerful, reliable and versatile. TYM compacts deliver more. The T353 compact is the ideal choice where day-in day-out multi-tasking is an absolute must. It makes easy work of a wide variety of landscaping and parks maintenance tasks and has a range of attachments, including backhoes, front loaders and an all-weather cab. The T353 gives you more versatility in the field.

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

NEWS

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Landscaping Company Acquisition

ISS UK Limited has today announced it has successfully exchanged contracts to sell ISS Facility Services Landscaping to Sullivan Street Partners, a Private Equity company, based in London. Completion is set for 30th April 2018. The new company will trade under the name Tivoli and will continue to deliver excellence in Grounds Maintenance for public sector, defence and corporate clients across the UK. The Senior Management Team will remain in their existing positions with Phil Jones continuing as Managing Director. The sale will see the transfer of 1,100 operational staff and support functions to Sullivan Street Partners. Phil Jones MD of ISS Landscaping commented: “I would like to thank ISS for their support over the past several years building ISS landscaping into a strong grounds maintenance business it is today. Together with Sullivan Street, I look forward to the next phase of development where we will together make Tivoli the pre-eminent environment for talented staff to build a grounds maintenance focused career and for clients to continue to experience the very best service levels in the market.” Layton Tamberlin, Director, Sullivan Street stated: “We have been highly attracted to the grounds maintenance market for some time and the business within ISS provides a fantastic base from which to grow. We are looking forward to meeting the transferring staff and working with them to make Tivoli a market leading independent grounds maintenance business in the UK.” The transaction remains subject to satisfaction of certain conditions precedent customary in a transaction of this nature, including anti-trust approval. www.sullivanstreet.co.uk

NEWS

Nutritional New Additions ICL & Syngenta’s Ultimate Offers has two new packages for 2018. Ultimate Offers are a range of tank-mixes in various combinations of nutrition combined with the plant growth regulator Primo Maxx II. The new ‘Ultimate Offer Iron’ provides excellent growth regulation, turf density and turf colour for use on both fine turf and outfield applications, while ‘Ultimate Offer SeaMax’ provides growth regulation, stress tolerance and improved rooting for

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golf greens and football pitch applications. In addition, both packages also include Syngenta XC nozzles to ensure the optimum product application is achieved. The offers are available exclusively through ICL distributors. Ultimate Offer NK, High N, S & S, the new Iron and the new SeaMax earn 5 Turf Rewards points, WSF/18 earns 10 Turf Rewards Points, WSF/36 earns 15 Turf Rewards points. Each comes with the ICL Application Booklet. www.icl-sf.co.uk

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

NEWS

Sustainability Concept Design

Writtle University College’s design for the Young Gardeners of the Year 2018 competition (Credit: Writtle University College).

Writtle University College’s team for the Young Gardeners of the Year competition has unveiled its design. The annual competition, which Writtle won last year, along with a Gold Medal, is organised by celebrity gardener David Domoney and gives students invaluable experience of designing and building a show garden. Delivered in association with The Prince’s Foundation for Building Community, this year’s competition is at the new Ascot Spring Garden Show in April. The Writtle University team of nine Further Education students, guided by lecturer Ben Wincott, has designed a garden based around a ‘floating’ decking platform anchored by a full-sized tree. James Durham, from Hertfordshire, said: “The main concept of our garden is sustainability. We hope that our garden will be an oasis in the middle of the urban desert, giving the homeowner somewhere to get away from it all – a space that brings them closer to nature and wildlife in the heart of the city.” The entrance to the garden is lowered and filled with harvested rain water, over which are porcelain stepping

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stones, lined by the sculptural and dramatic plant equisetum. The aim is to create movement, reflections and a natural element in the small 5m by 4.5m space. The team has suggested a pump system could take this water to irrigate the garden. Steps lead to a decking area made from recycled plastic raised on stilts, which gives the illusion of floating among the plants. Through this, the full-sized tree provides a natural shelter and intimacy. The planting will be predominantly dense thick grasses, and perennials referencing HRH The Queen’s colours of purple and gold as the Show is delivered in association with Ascot’s Crown Estate neighbours at Windsor Great Park. Student Grace Fairbrace, from Chelmsford, said: “This is a really exciting project which gives us the opportunity to develop our design and build skills at a high-profile event. We’re really looking forward to it!” The teams will have five days to build and plant their gardens in the Garden Terrace on the Grandstand of Ascot Racecourse, ready for the Show’s opening day on 13 April 2018. www.writtle.ac.uk/FE-Horticulture

NEWS

Integral to Success Ryan Golding, head groundsman at the Emerald Headingley Stadium, home to Leeds Rhinos rugby league and Yorkshire Carnegie rugby union clubs, believes that Limagrain’s MM60 grass seed has been integral to the success of the pitch. Ryan has worked at the stadium for fifteen years, and as head groundsman for the last four. Pitches include the stadium pitch, two first team pitches, four academy pitches, a 3G pitch and the Stanningley rugby league club. “On average, with both first teams and academy games we host around 50 – 60 games,” says Ryan. “We also have under-19 games, community games, disabled rugby games, and also events. It is a very intense work place and it never stops, but it’s interesting, challenging and enjoyable.” With such a heavy fixture list, renovations largely depend on available windows, but Ryan tends to aim for June each year. However, where many groundsmen may have extended periods throughout pre-season, Ryan has as little as 26 days to get the pitch up and running again. “Getting the right seed is key and that is why I use Project1_Layout 13:44 1 Limagrain’s MM60,”1he28/06/2016 says. “We had been Page with another seed

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supplier for a number of years but I felt we needed a change to keep on improving. I looked into it and spoke with other groundsmen who use Limagrain and received nothing but excellent feedback. Limagrain’s MM60 grass seed is renowned for producing an excellent playing surface in a stadium environment. It is a 100% Ryegrass formula which is perfect for renovation and divot repair, has a high disease resistance, fantastic aesthetic qualities and offers extremely fast germination, boosted by the inclusion of Headstart GOLD.

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NEWS “The germination is incredibly fast and I’ve noticed a particular improvement in the centre spot,” says Ryan. “It was always a problematic area in the past but MM60 has made a noticeable improvement especially when combined with sheets and lighting rigs. I’ve also noticed that it doesn’t fray the leaf edge when compared to our previous seed so we tend not to get as much disease – we hardly encounter any leaf spot as a result from stress and there is no yellowing of the leaf either.” Furthermore, Ryan was quick to praise the customer service

he receives from Limagrain. “Suppliers have to understand the needs of the pitch and the Limagrain team know the standards here which certainly helps – the back-up is great. I can call them whenever I want and we will normally start with a general discussion about rugby before going into the technical side of things. Personally, I think that Limagrain treats each and every customer the same – and that is a fine art if you ask me.” www.lgseeds.co.uk/amenity

Responsible Recycling The HTA has launched a Recycling Scheme for its members that will enable responsible recycling of plastic and other waste, and enhance green credentials. Partnering with Ecogen, based in Winchester, the scheme will provide a cost-saving solution by reducing the need for skips, and the amount of waste going to landfill. For those with the ability to accumulate volume, ideally through bailing, it could provide a source of income. Ecogen, who is fully accredited, registered and licensed in all aspects of specialist waste recycling, works with garden centres and wholesale nurseries across the country. Solutions include: The small volume solution, where members collect plastic trays and pots from their own use and stack onto a pallet (up to 2 m high and shrink wrapped). Ecogen picks up the pallets (minimum uplift of one pallet) for which the business is charged a set haulage fee (depending on geographical location). The stockpile solution for members able to collect and store larger volumes of recyclable materials (hard plastics, cardboard and plastic wrap). When haulage costs are taken

off, there may be a surplus depending on volume, waste type and site location. Bailing is the most effective way of returning the greatest volume of waste to Ecogen while minimalizing haulage costs. While bailers can be hired for around £15 a week, the HTA is negotiating a national deal aimed at producing a cost-effective solution for members to run alongside the plastics recycling scheme. Martin Simmons, HTA Director of Operations comments: “Plastics and recycling have become even higher on the national agenda since the coverage on Blue Planet II showing how waste plastic impacts our natural world. Within the garden industry we do have a responsibility to recycle what we currently use, as well as develop innovative alternative solutions. This is an issue that we take very seriously as do our members and their customers. Whilst plastic recycling has been more economical for our larger members this is the first time that we have been able to offer a national recycling solution for members of all sizes.” www.hta.org.uk/recycling

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echneat The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

NEWS

Flagship Regeneration

Lambeth Council’s Planning Committee has approved Metropolitan’s new development proposal to build more than 2,500 new homes and community facilities at Clapham Park in south London. PRP, the awardwinning architectural firm, designed the revised plan for Clapham Park. Strategically located between three local centres, Clapham, Brixton and Streatham Hill, the masterplan will create a vibrant, inclusive series of neighbourhoods with safe, secure streets, ample public and private green space, and new community facilities, while also positively maintaining Clapham Park’s unique character. Fifty-three per cent of the homes are affordable. At least 10 per cent of the homes will be wheelchair adaptable, while dual-aspect properties have been maximised. Buildings are arranged in an efficient, legible street framework designed with safety and security in mind to encourage pedestrian and cycle movement. Landscape diversity and active amenity is at the heart of the masterplan, provided via a network of distinctive public open spaces that create character and a sense of place. Richard Harvey, Design Director at PRP, said: “The commitment and collaboration between client, community and our project team on this detailed application is exemplary, and will deliver the highest standards of design and quality for this truly sustainable and inclusive community for the capital, while setting a benchmark for future estate regeneration on this scale.”

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Adrian Judd, Landscape Director at PRP, added: “This is a truly wonderful opportunity to work with the client, community and design team to create a public realm that is fitting for modern urban living. It creates a green, accessible, active and engaging public realm for the whole community, year round. It is richly planted at all levels, bringing people and nature together in a way that is both attractive and enduring.” The project is capable of immediate implementation. The Greater London Authority has stated that this approach to estate regeneration is “ambitious but fully welcomed.” Local residents have discussed the fine details of the design and issues that matter to them during design development of the masterplan throughout the community consultation period. Geeta Nanda, Chief Executive of Metropolitan, said: “The planning committee approval is very positive news for the residents and our partners in this long-term project.” Project team: Client: Metropolitan Local planning authority: London Borough of Lambeth Architect and masterplanner: PRP Landscape architect: PRP Daylight/sunlight and wind: PRP Planning: JLL Quantity surveyor: Mace Structural and MEP: Rambol Civil engineering: Hoare Lea Sustainably: Greengage www.prp-co.uk

NEWS

Importance of Aeration Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Shrewsbury School, is a firm believer that aeration is one of the most important practices carried out by groundsmen, and this is exactly why he has recently purchased a new SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid. Shrewsbury School is a co-educational independent schools for 13-18-year-olds. “We have a good blend of academics and sports at Shrewsbury School,” says Andy. “Sport is a massive part of the School and there is a very strong house sport system.” In discussing the maintenance procedures, Andy pinpointed aeration as one of the most vital: “On each pitch, we average 10-15 hours per week and we’ve got limited drainage. Therefore, one of the most important things we do is aeration and we aerate pitches all of the time. Grass lives and needs air like anyone else.” Breathing life into Andy’s grass is his newly purchased SISIS Javelin Aer-Aid tractor mounted aerator: “It was the machine I wanted because I had previously trialled it and had good results. I Clegg hammered the pitches before and after using

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the Aer-Aid and had noticed a massive reduction in hardness. I know that the Aer-Aid had recently undergone extensive Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) trials and it came out with excellent results, which always gives you confidence and makes it easier to explain to the bursars why you want to purchase it.” Over a three-month period, extensive STRI trials led by Dr Christian Spring examined how and if the Javelin Aer-Aid had an effect on the hardness of the turf, the root depth, water infiltration and disease. Christian reported: “It became obvious that the Aer-Aid improved maximum root and depth within the soil profile and also had the benefit of increasing the depth of the average rooting mass.” With 10mm diameter ‘tipped’ tines working at 75mm (3ins) spacing, air is introduced from the Aer-Aid at a rate of 88 litres (3cu.ft.) per minute. These air injection tines are specially designed to use the maximum air available from the compressor and produces clean, fresh air, while also ensuring that surface disturbance is kept to a minimum. The cam trigger mechanism ensures that the air is always expelled at the bottom of the tine penetration, enabling treatment to be targeted precisely and consistently. “We do all the normal types of aeration, but to actually be able to inject air into the surface as opposed to just a mechanical operation of it is a massive bonus,” says Andy. “It’s a really good machine, easy to use and we can see significant improvements since using the Aer-Aid.” www.sisis.com

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Fusion21 has launched its national Grounds Maintenance Framework, which offers a potential combined worth of up to £85 million, over a fouryear period. Specially designed to meet the needs of housing providers and other organisations operating within the public sector, the framework offers services from grass and hedge cutting to weed control, arboricultural work, fencing and litter picking. Fusion21 members will also benefit from working alongside Geographic Information Systems (GIS) providers who can assist with capturing, updating and analysing map data used to manage large grounds maintenance portfolios. Phil Woodhead, Category Manager (Compliance) at Fusion21, said: “We understand that maintaining the appearance of estates, neighbourhoods and shared outdoor space is important to housing providers and their communities. This framework will support improvement and maintenance works for outdoor spaces of any scale to a high standard, and Fusion21 members accessing this framework will benefit from greater efficiency savings in addition to working with pre-qualified and accredited supply partners. We welcome applications from interested organisations that meet the criteria set out in the tender documentation now available on the mytenders web portal – www.mytenders.org – under Notice ID MAR152692.” The submission deadline for the Grounds Maintenance Framework is Thursday 12th April 2018 at 4pm. www.fusion21.co.uk

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

MOTORING

Strong proposition to landscapers The Isuzu Grafter has long been regarded within the landscaping industry for its great functionality and manoeuvrability on tight working sights. The new model, introduced last year, also adds LIAM CAMPBELL AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR

efficiency to its long list of benefits thanks to its new Euro-6 compliant 1.9-litre diesel engine. Liam Campbell reports

CAB AND SPECIFICATION Like most Japanese-developed trucks, the focus on the interior is on practicality, rather than style. Despite its dated design, the cab is spacious, there’s great visibility from the driver’s seat and there’s an abundance of useful storage space, like an overhead tray, large pockets in the dashboard and underneath the seats. The Isuzu Grafter isn’t the most well-specced vehicle, but all the basics are covered like remote-control central locking, electric windows a trip computer, and there’s a Kenwood DAB radio and CD player with USB, Bluetooth and auxiliary connectivity.

LOADING AND TOWING Unladen, the Isuzu Grafter chassis cab weighs in at a very lightweight 1,748kg although our version was fitted with a 496kg TGS ‘Tippadeck’ tipping body which brought it up to 2,244kg. Given the 3.5t gross vehicle weight, this leaves 1,256kg left for useable payload and there’s a standard 3.5t towing capacity. The body measures 3,075mm long by 1,850mm wide and the sides are fully detachable. The body is raised using a control behind the driver’s seat which is on a three-metre lead, so the operator is able move around while tipping. There is a two-metre high mesh bulkhead to protect the cab and the sides consist of single 400mm high alloy mill finish drop side boards with recessed spring catches. The subframe, hydraulic tipper gear and corner posts are fully galvanised to protect it from corrosion and increase longevity. ON THE ROAD Isuzu’s newly-developed 1.9-litre RZ4E (1,898cc) unit, which also features in the new D-Max pickup truck, provides the power. The engine is capable of producing up to 123hp (3,200rpm) and 320Nm (1,600-2,800rpm), and it is hooked to a six-speed manual transmission in rear-wheel drive formation. City driving is a pleasure thanks to the tight turning circle and the low first gear ratio of just 4.942, which ensures the Grafter pulls off the mark with ease even with a heavy load on board. On the open road, the Grafter isn’t quite as comfortable as the lack of sound dampening and the near-vertical front end means a lot of engine and road noise perforates into the cab. When unladen, the Grafter tends to bounce around although there is very little body roll going into the corners.

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MOTORING

Fuel economy figures also aren’t published although, around town, our test vehicle achieved around 30mpg. Isuzu opted for the lean NOx trap to achieve Euro-6 and therefore there’s no need for AdBlue like on the Fuso Canter. Residual values are pretty respectable, and it is backed by Isuzu’s respectable three years, unlimited mileage warranty. VERDICT Despite the Isuzu Grafter not being the most comfortable to drive and not having all the latest mod cons, it’s a very practical workhorse with a solid reputation. The cab is spacious and practical, there’s great all-round visibility and the engine is more than capable to meet the demands of most customers’ requirements, and by partnering with one of the most respected names in tipping bodies, Isuzu is able

to offer a strong proposition to landscapers. Finance on the new Grafter Green is available from 1.99%. Various finance options are available. To find out more, contact your local Isuzu dealer or visit www.isuzutruck.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

WILDFLOWERS

Wildflower landscapes have a perception problem, partly because of the bare-ground initial stage (unless turf is used), and because people think of them as ‘just weeds’. However, corporations, communities and councils are realising the ecological, environmental, cultural and economic benefits. For the landscaper professional, that means exploring potential usage from small residential to large municipal projects, seed versus turf, species diversity, environmental benefits and maintenance costs. Report by Ffion Llwyd-Jones

RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE Richard Fry, Rigby Taylor Marketing Director, comments that flowers provide amazing displays, along with food for pollinating insects and habitats for wildlife. “They can be successfully used for enhancing habitats in public recreation, urban landscapes, highways, educational establishments, estates, golf courses, and for habit bio-diversity projects,” he adds.

Wildflowers can also be used on roadsides and in public parks, confirms Chris Carr, Harrowden Turf Sales & Marketing Manager, adding: “Just like ‘normal’ landscaping, it’s a question of right plant, right place’.” He adds that wildflower areas in public parks could be used as educational resources, and mini wildlife sanctuaries: “Meadowmat wildflower turf has been successfully used in London’s Royal Parks. It’s beautiful, and allows visitors to spot creatures they might

Colin Reader within an annual display. Credit: Colin Reader at wildflowerlawnsandmeadows.com.

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WILDFLOWERS Before and After. Credit: Colin Reader at wildflowerlawnsandmeadows.com.

not otherwise see in the city.” Dutch-based Flower Your Place suggests self-seeding and perennial mixtures open the possibility for many applications, including parks, roundabouts and roadside greens: “Colorful flowering mixtures with large flowers are particularly suitable for striking locations.” James Hewetson-Brown, Managing Director Wildflower Turf, comments that when wildflowers are used in a garden, “the establishment method, the design, and an awareness of what to expect are particularly important to ensure long-term success and enjoyment.” He adds that beyond being aesthetically lovely, a wildflower meadow offers an alternative mien or personality for a landscape, and should be designed into gardens, parks, roundabouts and verges. A favourite project of Fiona Guest, Scotia Seeds is when a community group has taken away a bit of mowed grass and sown a meadow. “Local people can watch it evolve and change, and become somewhere they get to know and feel is their unique patch,” she says. “As meadows can sometimes be a bit misunderstood, the community group produced a lovely board telling passers-by which flowers they can expect to see and it was great fun checking out which ones were in flower on the day.” Colin Reader, Wild Flower Lawns and Meadows adds that interpretation boards in newly wildflower seeded or turfed public spaces also means people don’t think it is left-bare ground. SEED OR TURF? In general, wildflower landscapes can be created from seed, plugs, or with turf. Richard says that wildflower mixtures do not necessarily live up to people’s expectations of vibrant flower displays. “Generally, most wildflower mixtures contain 80% grasses and 20% wildflowers,” he explains. “That creates a grassdominant meadow with few flowers that appear for a

short season. Such mixtures may not be germination tested, so they can be unreliable in the species they deliver.” Germination-tested seeds deliver reliability and vibrant flower displays for a longer flowering season; some mixtures are native and naturalised species, suitable for environmental and urban projects. An annual display could vanish after the first year, says Colin, suggesting it’s best to keep the percentage of annuals at 10-20 per cent: “Sow in March/April, for germination in June/July. There’ll be bare ground for quite some time; the second year is kick off as first year is bulking up leaf growth.” On sewing seed, Stuart Ball, Manager at John Chambers Wildflower (acquired by Green-tech in 2014) comments: “Using a higher sowing rate than recommended won’t result in either better plants or more flowers. Generally, the rates are: 100% Wildflower seed mixes – 2g/m² and 80/20 Grass/ Wildflower seed mixes – 5g/m².” Sowing wildflower seed can be a hit and miss process, according to James. “At best, a good result takes years; at worst, a slow and scruffy first year leads to client disappointment and the project is abandoned,” he says, adding that meadows are not easy to establish from seed: ‘Germination rates vary dramatically for reasons that include specific requirements of vernalisation and stratification, and embryonic dormancy is a natural aspect of many wildflower seeds. These are self-protection mechanisms to ensure the perpetuation of a species, but they don’t help when it comes to reliable establishment and often lead to problems for the landscaper and the client. Before starting a wildflower meadow, decide what the goal is, take time to plan it and understand the difference between a native annual wildflower meadow, a native perennial wildflower meadow and non-native annual and perennial flower meadows. These all need specific management techniques for success.” Philip Turvil, Grow Wild* Programme Director, Royal Botanic Gardens, adds that turf is “especially good if running

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

WILDFLOWERS Flower Your Place: ‘Aurora’

tight on project management.” He adds that even if plant plugs are used, it may not look as nice as wildflower turf. Fiona adds that lead times can be a big challenge on large projects. “Probably the largest was road building through rich and highly valued landscapes. The customers have a desire and responsibility to leave the environment around their site with as much or more biodiversity as there was before they began.” REGION APPROPRIATE Scotia Seeds specialises in Scottish origin native wildflower seed. “From the beginning, we put in place recording systems so we can track back a single seed lot from our crops to the original collection in the wild,” says Fiona. She adds that some sites have oversight from other agencies, such as in a National Park or in close proximity to a Site of Special Scientific interest, which means the client needs to ensure the species used in the restoration can be found within the area in which they are working. “The geographical origin of the seed should be as close as possible to the site,” she adds. For a wildflower meadow, Colin believes it’s best to use “the widest diversity of wild flowers at seeding, because an established meadow cannot easily be enhanced. Native provenance is important. The limiting factor tends to be soil type more than geographic.” Chris comments that, except for very specific areas, most of the native species in wildflower turf occur throughout the UK. “Where it’s important to have region-appropriate native flower species, it is possible to create a bespoke wildflower turf., “ he adds.

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For Philip, native provenance is as important as using native species.: “It may be native, but may not necessarily meet the provenance. A county’s source will be established in county, know the climate. There are local genetic differences. In addition, it’s important to support local flower population and propagation.” Richard believes there is “much folklore regarding ‘region-appropriate, native flower seed’”, adding that plant population diversity in the UK will continue to evolve. “Wildflower seeds are spread around the UK by wind, water, wildlife and transport systems,” he says. “Many new (sub) species have entered the UK and cross-pollinated with ‘native’ wildflowers. There is very little native ‘indigenous’ wildflower harvesting in comparison to the volume of flower seed sold in the UK, so for many regions in the UK ‘regional’ seed is not an option, unless individuals harvest it with the landowner’s permission. Wildflower seeds are produced and harvested at a small number of locations around the UK under the Flore Locale UK provenance, but a large proportion of wildflower seed is imported from across Europe.” Fiona comments that in an ideal project original collections of wildflower seed would be made from the site and multiplied off site to provide very local origin wildflower seed in enough volume to reseed. “It is often very difficult for clients to access sites to allow wildflowers seed producers to collect that early in a project,” she adds. “As native wildflower seed provision is a relatively new aspect of the work, clients do not always know to schedule local collection and multiplication into project planning. In our experience this can make providing very local origin seed at short notice

WILDFLOWERS a big challenge for us, and for the client.” Scotia Seeds assess collecting sites to ensure that they are of representative wild populations and collect based on accepted international guidelines (European Native Seed Conservation Network, and is a signatory to the Flora Local Code of Practice for collectors, growers and suppliers of native flora. The hardiness of a wildflower meadow is due to the species variation helping to protect against attack from many adversaries, remarks James. “Certain plants will cope with certain situations from drought and saturation, to pests and disease; the species that cope with a localised threat will thrive and ensure longevity of the habitat,” he says. He adds that is can be difficult to ensure regionappropriate native flower species: “It’s better to have a healthy, competitive meadow of native species (not necessarily regional species), rather than worry about the local provenance of the seed. Not everyone will agree with this, but it is pointless being too purist about seed provenance (and it can be totally impractical to do so), if the result is that the client gives up with the meadow, either because it takes too long or becomes infested with weeds. If this happens everything loses, from the client and the landscape professional to (and as importantly) the wildlife. James suggests establishing the meadow using risk-free, modern techniques, and then enhancing it using local species of wildflower: “Over-sow the meadow using local provenance seed, or use plugs grown from local seed stock. Being local species, they are likely to do well in the immediate conditions such as soil type, aspect, shade and moisture levels that will suit them.” John Chambers Wildflower: wild bird mix

MeadowMat on a bank showing swimming pool in May: Harrowden Turf

ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS According to Dutch company Flower Your Place, many studies show the dramatic decline in biodiversity in the urban environment. Sowing wildflowers is an effective way to reverse this trend. Chris points out that when countryside road verges were traditionally cut back with a scythe, and hay gathered for animal feed, it was a wonderful way of encouraging wildflowers to thrive. “Today, modern machinery flails the vegetation (along with crisp packets, tissues, plastic bottles) and leaves it sitting on the surface where it suffocates wildflower plants,” he says. “Some of the ‘old’ ways were more labour-intensive, but also more environmentally friendly.” Wildflowers form valuable wildlife corridors as well as a source of food and shelter for a whole host of mini-beasts, he says, adding: “The list of environmental benefits endless: soil stabilisation, rainwater management, biodiversity, less nutrient leaching, better air quality, reduced pesticide and herbicide usage.” James comments that in summer, the colour and interest in a wildflower meadow is second to none. “Before and after these months people may question their conventional beauty, but wildlife will not,” he adds. “The advantages for wildlife cannot be underestimated and we, as land managers, should be altering our mind-sets to include this habitat in all green spaces – not exclusively, but as part of a thought out design.” He adds the company is working with Portsmouth University looking at the benefits that wildflowers bring

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

WILDFLOWERS Rigby Taylor: Euroflor in Gloucester

to pollution mitigation. “Wildflowers lock up harmful pollutants,” he says. “We want to develop a Wildflower Turf for this purpose. We are also looking at cutting regimes for wildflower meadows, to design specifications for landscape architects and councils to ensure meadows look good, with a biodiverse habitat to benefit wildlife.” Fiona comments that native wildflowers attract pollinators, thus providing bees, butterflies, hoverflies, and beetles with the food they need to survive. She adds: “Wild grasses are eaten by the caterpillars of moths and butterflies such as Meadow Browns and Ringlets. Kestrels hunt over meadows during the day and owls float over them at night, both spotting the voles and other small mammals that make meadows their home. A meadow is whole, rich habitat, and can be a vital part of managing the effects of climate change as well as a biodiversity hotspot.” She comments on a visit to a “lovely meadow next to the sea that was planted with our seed several years ago. Young visitors on the day had great fun using sweep nets to find out what ‘beasties’ had made it their home. We also made a careful collection from the different plants to make meadow crowns with the grasses and wildflowers.” LOW MAINTENANCE? Richard comments succinctly that wildflowers can be low maintenance “depending on what the perception and expectations of what ‘low maintenance’ is.” He says that

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preparation is the key to success: “Flower meadows can be left completely unmown, or mown in the spring before flower head emergence or late autumn after flowering. Urban flower displays, for example, are a cost-effective replacement for bedding plant schemes.” Stuart emphasises the importance of regular cuttings through the first growing season, removing the clippings after each cut, with a final cut after the flowering season has finished. He advises “a ‘tidying’ cut in early spring before the growing season gets into full swing. After this, the whole sward can be left to grow through late-spring and summer.’ James says that while much is made of the reduced maintenance of a wildflower meadow, ‘it will never be zero maintenance and there are different maintenance regimes to suit different purposes.” He adds: “At its simplest, one

Scotia Seeds: Burnet Moth. Copyright Fiona Guest & Giles Laverack

WILDFLOWERS tight cut and thorough remove is all that is needed to maintain a wildflower meadow. Modern machinery can make this procedure very easy. Add the lack of requirement for pesticides or fertiliser and the cost of maintenance is very low. However, the caveat is that it only applies to a wellestablished wildflower space. If a sown meadow is struggling to establish, there is the potential for a lot of work to ensure it remains healthy and weeds do not take over.” Colin comments that the maintenance programme is key to success: “Keep weeds down, cut and clear in September, and established plants will come up. Mow paths through it, instead of random walking. Guide people to appreciate beauty. The paths don’t hurt perennials, and the route can be changed the following year.” Philip confirms that turf “can be a maintenance headache.” He adds that it needs a watering schedule, and infrastructure to support maintenance, right from the speccing stage. Chris comments that management of wildflowers grown at the roadside also needs careful consideration. However, as he adds: “In these days of austerity, I can’t see council’s funding that. But perhaps community groups could get involved?” He continues: “Compared to a manicured lawn or a Victorian-style bedding display, a wildflower area is lower maintenance, as long as we’re talking about perennial wildflower meadows, rather than the brightly coloured swathes of cornfield annuals.” He adds that assuming one can simply lay wildflower turf, water it in and let Mother Nature do the rest is, however, a big mistake: “In traditional meadows, perennial flowering plants grow among grasses and are actively managed by farmers. The meadow is cut for hay in summer and grazed by animals during late summer and autumn. To maintain a perennial wildflower area that is about pretty flowers rather than animal feed is about managing competition between plant species. Specifically, not allowing the grasses to crowd out the flowering plants. The key lies in soil fertility (it needs to start low and stay low),

Scotia Seeds: Mavis Bank. Copyright Fiona Guest & Giles Laverack

and in well-timed mowing and management.” As Chris concludes: “Research indicates that growing wildflower strips alongside agricultural crops encourage beneficial insects that can help protect the crop against pests. The trick will be to persuade farmers that this is economically viable for them. Until that happens, it’s down to the landscape industry to make sure that we as a nation continue to benefit from our wonderful wild flowers.” * Grow Wild is the national outreach initiative of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: “encouraging millions of people to change lives and transform spaces through native UK wildflowers and fungi. We inspire people to grow as a group, get active, learn about and engage with nature and give back through volunteering. All of which can improve health and wellbeing, as well as urban and unloved spaces across the UK.” Grow Wild is supported by the Big Lottery Fund using National Lottery funding, and through private and public contributions.

Wildlife Turf: Athletes Villlage Before and After

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

MOWERS

Rise of the robots The Etesia Attila mower has become synonymous with cutting high, dense vegetation in difficult terrain. Now, Etesia UK has announced it is available as a fully automatic robotic mower with the use of an iPad. The Etesia SKD ExxDrive has been developed with partners FeBroLift GmbH and is a completely new type of external operating concept that allows the user to operate the device reliably and precisely by means of a gesturecontrolled operation via an app on an iPad – without having to sit on the mower itself. All functions, which the device contains serially, can also be accessed via the tablet, including the permanent use of the ‘deadman button’ during use which ensures safety at all times. If an emergency does occur; the device can be switched off via a secure emergency stop function. The biggest advantage of the Etesia SKD ExxDrive is that it can be fitted with a dual wheel kit and be used on steep slopes where mowing work can be carried out with a low risk to the operator, who can stay at a safe distance and avoid

Husqvarna’s top of the range Automower comes with a host of updates ready for 2018. Husqvarna Automower 450X is smart enough to negotiate the challenge of large and complex lawns – like multiple narrow passages, obstacles, tough terrain and slopes up to 45%.

GPS-assisted navigation and a host of other features, including Automower Connect make it the intelligent way to keep your lawn green, healthy and perfectly mowed. Automower Connect App keeps you in control from anywhere in the world. Track, interact and stay updated using your smartphone. www.husqvarna.com/uk

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risks of being injured, while still ensuring a high productivity in difficult terrain. The Etesia SKD ExxDrive retains all of the features of a standard SKD mower including an 85cm cutting width and cutting decks with steel reinforcements specifically designed to withstand different mowing conditions for a long period. www.etesia.co.uk

The STM range of RoboFlail remote control zero-turn mowers has had another successful year making inroads into this expanding market. With a range of four remote control mowers from the same design basis, STM are confident that they have the machine to match the required needs.

The RoboFlail Mini is, as its name implies, the smallest in the range. It runs with a Briggs and Stratton 950 motor which feeds an 80 amp generator. The mower operates using two 24v 600W [800W peak] electric motors driving lightweight tracks and cutting with a 50cm rotary deck. The RoboFlail One has an electric start 25HP Kawasaki petrol motor which hydraulically drives an underslung 122cm cut rotary or verti-flail rough-cut deck; the design also incorporates a tipping fuel tank to compensate on

MOWERS

angled terrain. The RoboFlail One diesel is of similar construction to the petrol version but comes with a Yanmar 25HP 3-cylinder diesel engine and a flail deck with back-to-back blades. The largest-engined unit is the RoboFlail Vario for use with Cat.1 PTO driven accessories such as flails or woodchippers. The 38HP diesel engine has a 20° tip facility for ease of use on steep inclines. The RoboFlail Vario also has a special engine facility – “Cleanfix” – whereby reversing the fan motor assists debris clearance from the radiator area. All the machines operate on up to a 50° incline, are zeroturn, feature heavy duty rubber tracks and the controls are fitted to a shoulder-slung unit, effective from 300m. These zero-turn low centre of gravity remote-control units have proved themselves time and time again for work in difficult, steep or tricky to access areas. The STM RoboFlail range cut forwards or backwards – which is hugely beneficial in eliminating the risk of damage to the turf by the action of tracks. www.st-mach.com

Robomow have three innovative models to choose from, depending on your garden size, each with its own specific features to ensure the best possible results for a flawless lawn. The RX models now feature improved navigation intelligence and customisation options which allow the Robomow to be tailored to your lawn, whether you want to increase edge mown coverage or improve efficiency. Smarter than ever, its forward mounted blade means it mows right up to the lawn edge – unlike any other robotic mower in its category. The largest model in the Robomow series, the RS model can mow areas of up to 5000m², the size you would need a ride on mower for, without lifting a finger. One of the most powerful robotic lawnmowers out there, the RS has a 56cm mowing width, featuring a duel blade for a pristine finish. The RS’ wheels are designed to take on tougher terrain, whilst its unique floating deck ensures a perfect mow, even on contoured or irregular areas. The smallest and most affordable robotic lawnmower available, the Robomow RX provides all the benefits of smart

The professional approach to ground care...

Professional quality PEDESTRIAN, RIDE-ON and REMOTE CONTROL machines

Distributed in the UK exclusively by STM For more information or to arrange a demonstration: Call 01789 488450 or e-mail info@st-mach.com The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

MOWERS lawn technology, mowing lawns up to 200m2, for under £500. For gardens up to 2000m², Robomow RC models have a 28cm mowing width for a wide and precise cut. As one of the leading robotic lawnmowers on the market, the Robomow RC’s smart blade ensures the very finest edging capability and high-quality power wheels enable a fast and accurate mow. Once installed, Robomow automatically goes out to mow your lawn at regular intervals and even charges itself with no further input. All Robomow models also boast a powerful mulching system built in, which means there is no grass box to empty. Cuttings are shredded into miniscule pieces before being spread at the roots of the lawn, where they return valuable water and nutrients to the soil. This, along with the absence of fuel and low noise levels also makes it particularly environmentally friendly. www.robomow.com Magic Distribution, (a Trade Division of Mower Magic Ltd) the specialist Robotic Mower distributor in the UK, has secured a UK Distribution Agreement with the Italian manufacturer Zucchetti Centro Sistemispa. Offering expertise in the field of Robotic Mowers in the UK for over 10 years, Magic Distribution already successfully

REMOTE CONTROL SLOPE MOWERS FOR THE TURF OR LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONAL

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distribute the Robomow range of products, and has become a well-known supplier of Robotic Mowers, supplying both national retailers and specialist trade. The partnership allows Magic Distribution to add a second range of robotic mowers to its existing line-up, giving consumers and dealers alike more choice than ever before. Zucchetti manufacture robotic mowers under the Brand “Ambrogio Robot”. Ambrogio is a well-known technology leader in high quality robot mowers across Europe for over 18 years, surpassing its competitors with its unique wide range of robotic models. The range now includes a ‘Drop & Mow’ model that requires no installation and utilises a range of sensors to recognise where a lawn ends. The range also features a model for extremely large lawns of up to 7000sqm and steep slope models for up to 55% gradient, Ambrogio has gained wide acceptance in Europe with over 220,000 Ambrogio robots sold to-date. www.ambrogiorobot.com

Big savings Honda (UK) is looking ahead to the first cut of the 2018 season with big savings across its entire range of premium lawn mowers, excluding robotic models. Available now from Honda’s authorised UK dealer network and its online store, store.honda.co.uk, the biggest savings are to be had on ride-on models – with £400 off across the range, now starting at £2,399. For those in the market for something a little smaller, Honda’s core pedestrian models now start at just £499, with a saving of £100 across the range. Packed with clever innovation and unique technology, Honda’s core line-up is ideal for the medium to large lawn, with a wide range of options to suit the needs of even the most demanding customer. Purpose-designed to be easy to use and maintain, Honda’s best-selling IZY range now starts at just £299, with a saving of £65 on all models. Once again packed with a host of technology, but in a super-light package, IZY is the perfect choice for the small to medium lawn, ultra-manoeuvrable for

MOWERS navigating obstacles and tricky patches. Finally, Honda’s entry level electric lawn mower, the HRE 330, is now available for just £109, representing a saving of £80. Lightweight and quiet, with a 33cm cut and 1100-watt motor, it features easy-fold handles for storage and transport and an easy-detach grass bag. The offers run from 1st March – 31st July 2018. When purchasing from Honda’s online store https://store.honda. co.uk/ delivery is free of charge, with orders fulfilled by a local dealer who will drop off the customer’s machine set up and ready to get to work, offer a demonstration if required, and take away all packaging materials. www.honda.co.uk

The Allett C34 Steve Whiting has been Head Groundsman at Girton College, Cambridge, for nineteen of his thirty years in the industry. Girton’s main site has the best on-site sports facilities of any of the University of Cambridge colleges with fifty-five acres of sports and formal grassed areas that cared for by Steve’s team of two Groundsmen and

five Gardeners. The College has recently purchased a new Allett C34 Cylinder mower from the professional mower range, to add to their ‘Allett fleet’ which includes two RM34’s, a Tournament 20 and two ‘vintage’ Regals. “I’ve done many, many miles on an Allett,” says Steve, “and purchasing the C34 was an easy choice to make. You know with an Allett they will never let you down. I have never had one breakdown in all these years. They are easy to use, reliable, professional, and we have a great relationship with Allett.” The Allett C34 mower features the ‘Quick Cartridge’ cylinder, with interchangeable cartridge heads for a variety of turf maintenance tasks. There is the choice of six or eight blade cylinder and the machine can swiftly convert to a turf rake, powered scarifier, verticutter, brush and sorrel roller. Power comes from the Honda GX200 engine, the working width being 86.4cm/34” and the handlebars are adjustable with anti-vibration mountings. The cut height is adjustable between 8mm/0.32” and 55mm/2.17” “We use the C34 on all the grass pitches, football, cricket, and formal lawns. The finish is brilliant and the turf rake is great for cleaning up.” Steve adds, “it’s exactly what we want, all in one mower.” www.allett.co.uk

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SAFETY FIRST With all of the work that goes on at commercial sites and residential properties today, it is more important now than ever before to make sure that everything is done properly for the safety of the crew you have onsite. Each day workers are injured in some way because proper detection was not done regarding the placement of gas pipelines, and cables for power That is why it is so important that you are able to detect these lines, know just where they are on the job site and avoid them. It is also a legal requirement. MANS Location Services offer the finest cable locators to allow for proper cable location on each job.

they can be discovered properly. They also provide a line of CAT and Genny (Signal Generators) so that you are able to properly and safely avoid any and all pipes and cables that may present. Not only will you find that Mans the ideal source for all of the equipment for your cable detection needs, but we at MANS Location Services can help you with repairs of any equipment you may own, re-calibration of your equipment (which should be done every twelve months) and training on the correct use of the equipment. You will get all of their experience and knowledge in the industry with every product that you purchase from them.

Cable Location Equipment Mans offer a full range of equipment that can provide you with cable and pipe location capabilities like never before. The locators available are among the best in the industry and make use of the latest in technological advances so you can be sure that you are getting the most accurate information possible regarding the placement of all of the cables and pipes that potentially are on the job site. This allows you to proceed with the job without the worry of harm coming to any equipment that you may be using or to any of your crew.

Other services provided by Mans • Water Leak Detection • IBG Lateral Cutting Systems • Site Survey • Torches • Nite Site Spotter • FLIR Thermal Imaging cameras • Specialist Cutting Systems • Reconditioned Equipment • Inspection Cameras • Cable Test and Fault Location • Generators • Pressure Washers • Water Pumps • Heaters • Hire • Calibration / Service

CAT Scan Tools Mans offer the latest in CAT scan tools, also known as Cable Avoidance Tools, which are designed to detect the signals that emanate from the cables so that

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PROMOTED

Paving and Patio cleaning - the experts How times change. Many years ago if you wanted to get your paving cleaned it was a case of throwing a bucket of soapy water on the paving and scrubbing in for all your worth with a broom. Back breaking work and very indifferent results. Then came an electric jet washer with its pencil jet which only cleaned a line at a time and took forever to do. This also caused so much splashback and dirt all over you and the surrounding areas it took just as long to clean up after yourself leaving you thinking “I am not doing that job again in a hurry!” Nowadays Spinaclean offers the luxury of their Slip Stream Pro patio and driveway cleaning systems. Equipped with the most robust Honda engines and powerful flat surface cleaners, they are the ultimate combination for the patio and driveway cleaning professional. The surface cleaner has a rotary arm underneath which spins at great velocity rapidly removing the dirt and keeps all the waste matter under

control on the floor not all you or the surrounding areas. It’s as easy as mowing the lawn. With over fifty years’ combined first-hand experience in the industry, Spinaclean are the true paving and patio cleaning experts. Our extensive range of machines have been modified to suit a wide range of domestic and commercial cleaning requirements and budgets. Our ever popular ‘Industry workhorse’ Pro20 system, is demonstrated at our Training Day’s at our Northampton HQ. Running for over ten years’ our hands on Training Days have been designed to teach sole traders everything they need to know about setting up an external business, offering services including patio and paving cleaning, external gutter cleaning and professional window cleaning. Alternatively, our doors are always open at our Northampton HQ for a no obligation demonstration and chat with our demo team, whether starting a business from scratch or seeking an additional profitable revenue stream. “What I like about Spinaclean is they don’t just sell the equipment they have the knowledge to go with it and are always at the end of the phone to give any guidance.” Will Fox, Fox’s Pure Clean External Cleaning: Business Training Days Spinaclean’s training days are designed to meet all the requirements needed to set up an all over external cleaning business. They will teach you how to be successful in running this type of business, top tips will be revealed on cleaning all types of jobs in all sorts of environments. Discounted StartUp Business Packages are available The cost of the training day is £124+VAT Tel: 01604 968700 info@spinaclean.com www.spinaclean.com

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Decks to Success Building and timber merchant, Beesley & Fildes, has experienced a successful year of sales since taking on Composite Prime’s latest decking product, HD Deck Dual, and has forecast the possibility of double sales within the next 12 months. Currently stocking both colour options of the reversible decking board in its Widnes and Chester branches, the product has been well received by customers looking for a low maintenance, durable decking solution that retains a natural likeness to timber. HD Deck Dual is the second Composite Prime product to be stocked by Beesley & Fildes, following the success of the wood plastic specialists’ HD Deck 146 board within the merchant’s branches. Since stocking composite decking at the beginning of last year, Beesley & Fildes has seen a steady sales growth, attributed to the success of products such as HD Deck

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Dual. Impressed by the products unique quality, the merchant is interested in taking on Composite Prime’s more recent garden innovations including HD Fence, a contemporary, durable solution for residential gardens and commercial boundaries. Stuart Hodkinson, product development manager at Beesley & Fildes, said: “We decided to stock Composite Prime due to the quality of the products, which has been proven through the extensive research and testing phase prior to the decking being launched to the market. The uplift in sales we’ve seen since taking on HD Deck Dual and the support we’ve received from the company with regards to training has been second to none. We were confident HD Deck Dual would work for us, following our customers’ response to the HD Deck 146 board, and now we are keen to see further ranges from the innovative, forward-thinking team.” Beesley & Fildes was established in 1820 and now has a network of nine branches throughout the northwest supplying building, landscaping, timber, joinery and roofing products. Charles Taylor, sales director at Composite Prime, said: “Naturally we are thrilled with the response HD Deck Dual has received since its launch last year and have always been confident the product would take off. We have worked hard to ensure the boards fill a real gap in the market for a low maintenance, durable and safe decking solution that has a true natural likeness to timber. We have a strong commitment to our stockists and we couldn’t be happier that both HD Deck 146 and HD Deck Dual is proving to be successful for Beesley & Fildes.” HD Deck Dual combines FSC® 100% certified hardwood timber and recycled plastic. Featuring a unique protective cap around the board’s outer layer, the material has been innovatively designed to protect the inner core from the elements. In addition, the fully capped design creates a protective layer that offers resistance against stains, fading and weathering. The decking board has also received certification on its slip-resistant feature and carries a 25year warranty. www.beesleyandfildes.co.uk

HARDSCAPER

Wienerberger, UK provider of wall, roofing and landscape solutions, has launched five new facing bricks. The launch is part of an extensive product development programme at Wienerberger’s Ewhurst site – one of the largest brick factories in the South East of England. The bricks, which are a selection of red multi and orange multi products, were designed for the new build housing market. The aesthetics of the range complement each other to enable housebuilders to achieve attractive street scenes on their developments. To enhance the aesthetics of these new bricks further a special ‘soft-edged’ texture has been developed within the manufacturing process, which gives them a stock brick style appearance that is very popular in the market at the moment and really makes them stand out from other wirecut bricks. The development programme at the Ewhurst factory saw Wienerberger develop over 40 different options. Feedback sessions were held to give a number of housebuilders and other key customers as well as members of its own sales team the chance to view the range to select which products to launch. After much deliberation, it was decided to take the following bricks to market: Cedarwood Multi, Dunsfold Multi, Kingsley Multi, Somersbury Multi and Shipley Blend. Wienerberger expects the range to be popular across the South of England as well as parts of East Anglia and the Midlands. The launch takes Wienerberger’s portfolio of facing bricks manufactured at Ewhurst up to seven, which also includes the Sienna Red and Ewhurst Medium Multi, both of which have achieved significant sales growth over the past two years. Lee Pauls, Category Product Manager at Wienerberger, said: “A great deal of development work has taken place at Ewhurst over the past six months to produce these new

bricks and the customer feedback we’ve had to date has been excellent. With new build housing being one of the key drivers for the construction industry at the moment, it’s important to provide products that will help satisfy market demand. These new bricks were specifically designed and created with the new build housing market in mind, so they should be an ideal choice for developers.” www.wienerberger.co.uk Forest Garden’s 2018 range can help create an outside space that is on trend, practical and beautiful. The new collection includes the Hexagonal Garden Gazebo, a range of small stores (from the Shiplap Small Garden Store to the Large Outdoor Store), Plant Ladder Display, and Windsor Planter range. The majority of the timber used is grown and felled from managed UK forests across Scotland and Wales and cut and processed at the company’s sawmill. www.forestgarden.co.uk

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

ARBORIST

Tree Harmony Confor has welcomed a consultation described by UK Environment Secretary Michael Gove as a ‘historic opportunity’ to shape future rural policy and funding, while calling for more detail on the future role of forestry in the countryside. Government proposals would see money shift from direct payments under the Common Agriculture Policy (CAP), which are based on the amount of land farmed, to a new system of paying farmers “public money for public goods” - such as enhancing the environment and investing in sustainable food production. Other public goods that could be supported include investment in technology and skills to improve productivity, providing public access, enhanced welfare standards and measures to support the resilience of rural communities. Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive of Confor, said: “Confor welcomes Michael Gove’s vision for a move away from direct payments to farmers to a new environmental land management system - as long as this provides a level playing field for forest management. This approach should support new tree planting, although it is unclear whether existing woodland will benefit.”

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Narrow Access Pedestrian Stump Grinders. Celebrating 25 Years

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There is a 10-week consultation period (which ends on 8 May) and Mr Goodall urged the forestry and wood processing industry to take part: “This is potentially a once-in-a-generation consultation and it is important that businesses in the sector make their views known. Confor will share its views in the coming weeks - but a central plank of our thinking, as outlined in our Common Countryside Policy, is that all rural interests must be treated fairly. We need a blueprint which supports the whole countryside, including forestry.” The government will continue to commit the same cash total in funds for support until the end of this Parliament in 2022. Its paper, ‘Health and Harmony: The Future for Food, Farming and the Environment in a Green Brexit’, sets out proposals for an ‘agricultural transition’ lasting an unspecified number of years beyond the implementation period during which direct payments would continue. This will provide “stability and certainty for farmers as they prepare for the new system”, the Government says. www.confor.org.uk

2017 celebrated 25 years of DANequip & narrow access stump grinders The self propelled pedestrian model is 28” working width, supplied with transportation wheels allowing the machine to narrow down to 26”, and sports a new livery in black. Some of the key points of the machine are: 1. Hydrostatic drive allowing faster, easy movement of machine. 2. E lectromagnetic clutch for safe engagement of cutterwheel 3. Disc Brake System 4. E lectric Start – 20, 25 & 27hp Kohler Command engine options 5. 227kgs well balanced machine. 6. 14” cutting depth Fitted with standard finger teeth (American quality), Greenteeth option available. The smaller 13PP push/pull model is 23” wide fitted with a 13hp Honda GX390 engine. It uses the same full size cutter wheel with tooth options. For further specifications visit: www.danequip.co.uk

ARBORIST

Powerful Incentive The Royal Forestry Society welcomes the publication of the British Woodland Survey 2017 (BSW2017) today. The survey provides a powerful incentive to better value the forestry sector for the future and a case for action, says the Royal Forestry Society (RFS). It provides valuable insights in particular to the case for building resilience in our woodlands, finding ways to value and be paid for ecosystem services and to incentivise new planting. RFS Chief Executive Simon Lloyd says: “ It is interesting to note that although respondents were strongly motivated to diversify tree species to support biodiversity (76%) and forest health (72%), there remain significant barriers to tree species diversification as a strategy to mitigate the impact of environmental change, pests and disease. We need to further explore where fears lie. We need to ensure our woodlands are fit for the future.” On new planting, respondents indicated they could create 26,218ha of new planting - equivalent to a 0.83% increase in the UK’s woodland area - with the right incentives, a powerful signal to revisit the current grant system which

is not driving a much needed step change in woodland creation. Payments for Natural Capital (ecosystem services) could be the key, Simon Lloyd explains: “Most respondents considered their land provided valuable ecosystem services, but 76-85% were uncertain about the economic value of their land for ecosystem services such as pollination; soil erosion protection; water flow regulation; cultural; carbon storage/sequestration; and recreation. “As talks about the future of land use and grants post Brexit continue, payment for ecosystem services represent a potential incentive for farmers and other landowners to better manage existing woodland and to plant new woods, while at the same time increasing public understanding of the value woodlands bring to local economies and communities.” Of the 1,630 respondents to the survey (representing approximately one fifth of woodlands in private ownership), RFS members were the largest group of respondents. Read the full survey at www.sylva.org.uk/bws2017

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www.ecogreencomposting.co.uk Tel: 01260 223273 The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

POWER TOOLS

Cutting edge technology for the professional market Con Crowley reports Lots of exciting news is pouring out of STIHL’s Surrey UK HQ. The guys in Camberley have unveiled a range of battery powered cordless tools for the professional market, as well as revealing cutting edge developments in their market leading chain saw range. The most exciting new toy is a first in petrol technology that is set to send arborists swinging from their trees when it is fully unveiled next month. It’s embargoed until April 19th so we can’t say too much

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more except that it’s big, fast and very clever! We can, however, tell you lots about developments in the cordless range where the German manufacturer sees huge potential amongst landscapers, ground workers and professional gardeners. These electric tools, together with a glimpse at the new petrol beast from the east, were put through their paces by the trade press at Westonbirt, The National Arboretum, near Tetbury In Gloucestershire. STIHL has been providing eco power tools for the

POWER TOOLS attachments. These include; HT-KM pole pruner, HL-KM 0° hedge strimmer, HL-KM 145° hedge trimmer and FH-KM 145° scrub cutter. But for those who prefer the ease of use of a dedicated tool STIHL has introduced two powerful cordless brushcutters specifically designed for professional use in sensitive areas like schools, ,colleges, business parks and hospitals. One of the two models comes with a loop handle while the other has a bike handle bar for larger more open areas. There is also a choice of two robust cordless hedge

professional market since 2009 but they are now stepping up the game having developed the battery technology to deliver the power and longevity needed to allow these tools to become serious contenders. Newly developed battery back and belt packs which plug into the various appliances allow the extended use of cordless products such as hedge trimmers, blowers, strimmers and STIHL’s new KombiEngine multi tool. This battery alternative offers the unrestricted

huge potential amongst landscapers, ground workers and professional gardeners movement of petrol engines with the added benefits of a quieter working environment and lower maintenance. The new backpack battery has been developed for comfort with easy fix harness, lap and chest belt and even has a USB port for charging mobile phones and other devices. It comes in three sizes, offering different wattages and storage options, all delivering 36 volts which Stilh says gives the optimum weight, power and battery life ratio and perhaps more importantly a constant power level no matter how low the charge. The back packs are complimented by a range of smaller belt batteries that will also drive most of STIHL’s cordless tools. These include the all new KombiEngine powerhead and shaft. With high torque, low vibration and a weight of only 3.2kgs, it is 800 grams lighter than STIHL’s lightweight 24cc petrol powered alternative. The cordless version offers three power levels to enhance energy-efficient and low-noise work and is complimented by a new range of lighter weight

trimmers with a variable blade speed and rotating handle. The HSA 94 R has a lower blade speed for cutting thicker growth and managing tougher hedges, while the HSA 94 T has a faster blade speed more suited to trimming ornamental. With three adjustable blade settings, the tool offers powerful cutting ability and the ability to change the stroke rate to conserve battery power when not required. The hedge trimmer is comfortable to hold and balanced in operation, with a low weight of just 3.7kg for the T version and 4.1kg for the R version. Both models feature a rotating loop handle to allow the trimmer to be used for horizontal and vertical strokes whilst reducing strain on the wrist. The final cordless tool to be show cased at Westonbirt was a a lightweight leaf blower weighing just 2.5kg that allows the operator to roam effortlessly around a large area. It has a useful power boost feature that is activated by adding extra pressure to the trigger for tougher areas. When used with the new battery back pack the BGA 100 blower can run for up to 225 minutes.

The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

LIGHTING

Linear Luminosity; structure with LED strips Professionally landscaped gardens often concentrate on form, structure and natural ‘lines’ as well as style and function. LED strip lights are a fantastic, versatile method to highlight structural features in the garden. Their narrow size is particularly effective for steps, walls or vertical edges. Ben Courtney reports An LED strip light is a long strip or reel of small LED chips placed at regular intervals. When illuminated the LEDs provide stunning accent lighting wherever needed. There are many benefits to LED strip lighting. To get the full effect there are various points to consider first, such as installation, length, colour scheme and power supply. Firstly, not all LED strip lights are built for outdoor use. It’s important to always use a weatherproof, outdoor kit such as the fully waterproof IP68 ‘Lediflex’ range by Lumena. Lediflex strip lights are available in Warm or Daylight white as well as ‘Ali-Pro’ which encases strips up to 1m, but can be cut to a smaller size. The opal cover conceals the strip and diffuses light evenly, without glare. Their versatile design and the different LED colour options makes strip lighting an excellent choice for many different occasions, events and moods. www.lumenalights.com, sales@lumenalights.com, 01327 871161 Ben Courtney is the design and marketing manager of Lumena Lights single colours of Red, Green or Blue and are supplied with an detachable Plug & Play 24v DC power source. Additional ‘DConnect’ Plug & Play extension cables are also available as an accessory. This enables a more remote placing of the driver, further away from the fitting. These weatherproof strips are made of silicone with a PU sealed centre and available in 2m and 5m reels. Each strip contains 60 bright LEDs per metre. Smaller lengths can be created by cutting along copper connector points (every 10cm). Durable aluminium profiles are available for extra protective and secure mounting. An example of this is the

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HORTICULTURE

Architectural and Floriferous Adam added: “The stunning cream and white variegation works well as an illuminating centrepiece. It was discovered in New Zealand as a sport of Phormium ‘Cream Delight’ and is hardy to -12oc. “Dianella tasmanica Wyeena is available from July 2018. It is a fantastic architectural plant to bring drama to the garden. The stunning broad foliage is a striking combination of olive green with white margins and grows as a strong clumping upright, arching form. It is ideal for planting in swathes or as background plants to smaller grasses or shrubs. Perfect for patio pots or in the garden and has great cold and frost tolerance. It is also very low maintenance, with low water and care requirements.” Wyevale Nurseries’ main business is to supply garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners with trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants. www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

Wyevale Nurseries in Hereford has launched three new plants: Daphne odora x bholua ‘Perfume Princess’, Dianella tasmanica Wyeena and Phormium ‘Blondie’, which won a Silver Award in the Shrubs and Climbers Category at the 2017 Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) National Plant Show. Adam Dunnett, Sales and Marketing Director at Wyevale Nurseries, said: “Daphne odora x bholua ‘Perfume Princess’ is available now and we think it may possibly be the most scented shrub in the world. The combination of flower size, quantity and perfume make it a strong candidate for this title. It has very large flowers – double the size of any odora Daphne available. It is extremely floriferous, with tip bearing flowers followed by flowers that open all the way down the stem. “It also has a very long flowering period, offering months of flowers and is extremely tough and durable, able to withstand high temperature extremes. It also doesn’t get the sick yellowing of leaves that is so common in Daphne. It is an excellent grower and responds very well to pruning.” Phormium ‘Blondie’ is available from spring 2018 and has a distinct and unique new twist on Phormium. It grows to just 60cm tall and produces long arching leaves, which cascade over the pot, more akin to a spider plant in habit.

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

HORTICULTURE

Dimmock to Open Centre Squire’s Garden Centre on Littlewick Road in Woking is open with a new look. Following a significant extension the stunning new garden centre offers an inspirational plant area, complete with an outdoor canopy to keep you and the plants dry, and a bigger shop, offering a wider choice of gardening products, gifts and garden furniture. The Café Bar has been extended and refurbished, plus there’s a beautiful outdoor veranda where you can sit and admire the plants. There’s now also a full waiting service, so you can order food and drinks from the comfort of your table. Every Sunday lunchtime in March, there’ll be live music from Surrey-based classical guitarist Richard Veitch between 12.30pm-2.30pm. Sarah Squire, Deputy Chairman at Squire’s commented: “Squire’s in Woking has been completely transformed

yet still remains one hundred percent true to our horticultural heritage. It’s beautifully designed and landscaped to fit within the surrounding area, and truly retains its sense of place. We hope it will be a centre that the community can be really proud of, as a local hub, a place for family and friends to get together in comfortable and relaxed surroundings. So come and see our new look garden centre. We very much look forward to welcoming our customers back, and to meeting new ones.” On Saturday 17th March, Charlie Dimmock officially opened Squire’s in Woking. www.squiresgardencentres.co.uk

Window of Values The fourth edition of the International Green Expo (21-23 February 2018) attracted 655 exhibitors, 17,300 registered participants over three days at Fiera Milano Rho-Pero. The companies from Lombardy were most numerous, followed by those from Veneto, The Netherlands, Tuscany, Sicily, Puglia, Emilia Romagna, Piedmont and Denmark. Foreign exhibitors represented 20% of the total, and the 150 buyer delegations came from 50 countries. Myplant & Garden has been rich and varied on all of the 45,000 sqm of exhibiting surface. The eight macro-sectors (pots and professional containers, garden care, machinery, decoration, flowers, nurseries, services, landscape and materials) created a mosaic of exceptional variety that met visitors’ favour. “Before the opening of the show we felt the responsibility to have become the reference in Italy for the industry. After this edition we have the knowledge that Myplant is a great driving force for the whole sector. It is the climax of a movement that is surrounded by companies, associations, consortiums, operators, academics,

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journalists and analysts who ask for advice, who give advice, who follow, encourage and drive on. During the fair days, somebody wrote on a newspaper that ‘by ourselves we are lost, and Myplant is a world of friends’. Because at the International Green Expo you don’t see just a meaningful moment for the industry, you also see a window of values.” Fifty meetings focused on the most important and current themes for the industry, and the ‘bonus verde’ seminar sold out. The outdoor area offered demonstrations with machinery. “The next edition will take place from 20 to 22 February 2019. Until the end of April, we will be busy on two fronts: on the one hand there will be the rebooking phase open to our exhibitors, and on the other Myplant will be present at the Fuorisalone del Mobile (17-22 April) with the event DOT - Design Outdoor Taste. We will transform piazza San Marco, in the heart of the Brera District, into a lively and fashionable urban jungle made of vegetation and outdoor furniture, with the cooperation of big brands, artists, and creative people.”

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HORTICULTURE

Going for Gold In 1988, newly-weds Rosy and Rob Hardy were selling home grown plants at a local car boot sale. Thirty years on, Hardy’s Cottage Garden Plants has gained an international reputation as one of the UK’s leading independent plant nurseries, having won 22 prestigious Gold Medals at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, where this May, the Hardy’s will be celebrating the Nursery’s and their own Pearl Anniversaries, with some exciting new plant introductions. As befits the double celebration, Hardy’s will be unveiling two new herbaceous perennial plants on their Stand in the Great Pavilion. The Gaillardia has been bred by Rosy, at the family run Nursery in Freefolk in Hampshire. The first of the new introductions is Gaillardia ‘Apricot Honey’, which Rosy has been evaluating and propagating for over two years at the nursery. As its names suggests, this 70cm high Gaillardia produces large, soft apricot flowers throughout the summer (or from when to when). Its elegant free form and gently arching habit, make it ideal for the middle of a warm sunny border, or in a large container. The second introduction is Polemonium yezoense ‘Kaleidoscope’ which was bred in 2001 at Dunmore Nursery. This striking plant is sure to attract attention of visitors to Chelsea.

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

HORTICULTURE or partially shaded border, or in a container. Commenting Rosy Hardy told The Landscaper “We are delighted to be returning to RHS Chelsea Flower Show in 2018 and being able to celebrate the two 30th anniversaries. Those three decades have flown by and in that time we have appeared at more than 300 RHS Shows and introduced over 100 new plants. So, we are delighted to be able to celebrate with the introduction of two more beautiful perennials, which we feel sure gardeners will love to grow.” “Over the years we have seen our plant displays at Chelsea change a great deal. We used to have small island stands for visitors to walk around, but in recent years, we have created much larger, walk-through displays, so that visitors can be up-close to the wide range of herbaceous perennial plants.” This year Hardy’s stand is being supported by Marshalls who will be providing much of the hard landscaping for the stand and the peat free growing medium endorsed by the RHS for the hundreds of plants on display, is being provided by Melcourt Industries Limited. www.hardyplants.co.uk

Top accolade The annual awards ceremony, sponsored by Bradstone, took place on Friday 16 March at The Brewery, London, to celebrate and recognise the outstanding landscaping carried out by members of the APL. Ryan Alexander Landscape Design & Build, based in Berkshire, took the Supreme Winner award for their project: Dean Grange. This entry was also the winner of the Project Value Over £200,000 category. Dean Grange is a newly built luxury family home, designed by James Lambert Architects. The garden design and build, designed by Bowles & Wyer, needed to both complement and reflect the high specification and use of quality contemporary materials within the house. The outdoor space is made up of the following areas: wild flower meadow, formal rear lawn, fire pit/entertaining area, orchard & walled kitchen garden; sunken garden, children’s play area, pool & guest house terrace. The overall plot is approx. 9 acres. The project took around 12 months to build. Much was undertaken during the construction of the house which

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HORTICULTURE presented logistical challenges and negotiations with the main contractor to ensure the project would

industry stalwart, Chris Collins, giving the audience part two of his tales from his career including highlights of his time as a gardener at Westminster Abbey, the changes he made, and how he was the first gardener there to have a computer. Taking place on Garden Re-Leaf Day, Greenfingers was the nominated charity for the event with landscapers giving generously for the cause. For a full list of winners go to www.landscapermagazine.com

be completed on time and within budget. The judges commented, “An impressive and inspirational achievement for other landscapers with the opportunity to interpret all available space with creative planting achieved to perfection. Each area tells a story and was built for a reason and purpose. Outstanding!” The standard of entries exceeded expectations and yet again there were a record-breaking number of submissions, and individual entrants, for the judges to deliberate over. On the judging panel were industry experts: Richard Barnard as chief judge, Bob Sweet, Steve Smith, Robin Templar-Williams, and the APL’s General Manager, Phil Tremayne. The record breaking 360 strong audience heard from

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

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Autumn 2013 Price List

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The Landscaper | Issue 226 | March 2018

THE

LANDSCAPER

By Tabitha Grammaticus-Smythe

Dear Fans Thank you so much for all the supportive emails. According to many of you I am the best journalist in the country. Certainly in the publishing world of landscaping and horticulture - job offers have been flooding in from competitive magazines all over the UK . Apart from a better salary they are offering fantastic perks- gender specific washrooms with doors that close, tea and coffee facilities, heating, paid holidays, windows that open, carpets - and none of them expect you to supply your own paper clips. The Landscaper does not have a gender pay gap - it’s a bloody canyon. There’s them and us. Whilst waiting in the snow at the bus stop near Twickenham station staring up admiringly at Horticulture Week’s lavish wood panelled offices, Il Duce swept past in his V8 ‘fully loaded’ Jaguar - he saw me waiting and chose to ignore me. Still you know me I’m not one to grumble. Alexander Boris de Pfeffel Johnson (born 19 June 1964) has just admitted to my heart throb Andrew Marr ( what a looker!) that he took part in a tennis match with the wife of a former Russian minister after she donated £160,000 to the Conservative party. Why am I surprised? Boris is a male name of Bulgarian origin and is widely represented in Russia. Forget the pretentious Pfeffel Johnson

www.landscapermagazine.com

bit, perhaps his real name is something like: Boris Burdukov. ….OK Boris let’s see your birth certificate! Burdukov, here’s a challenge. I will read the Daily Mail for a week if you agree to play tennis with me. The only condition is that when I win (looking at the shape of your body from your early morning press conferences in dodgy track suits) my victory is the only possible outcome, you will pay back London tax payers for all the money you wasted on the Garden Bridge and the stupid Boris bus. Bearing in mind things I have read about you in the past I will certainly demand new balls and no grunting. Il Duce has taken to feeding the birds behind the office. The area around Richmond has become home to colonies of European Ring-necked parakeets. He spends hours in the garden throwing bread in between the flocks of parrots and native pigeons so that he can enjoy the ensuing battle of the birds. Perhaps the Brexit thing has finally taken its toll. We are worried about him. Well that’s all folks - keep your powder dry tabitha@landscapermagazine.com

THE

LANDSCAPER Sales Associate

The Landscaper is the UK’s No. 1 landscaping industry magazine. For over 20 years it’s succinct, no nonsense editorial approach and compact size, together with a highly competitive advertisement rate has resulted in a rapid growth in advertisement market share.

LANDSCAPER

SEASON’S GREETING

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SUMMER DAYS ISSUE 221 | £3.95

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THE UK’S NUMBER 1 LANDSCAPING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

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STRY NEWS!

SALTEX REPORT | BTME

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FOUR OAKS & GLEE FULL REPORTS

COVER STORY:

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COVER STORY:

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THE UK’S NUMBER 1 LANDSCAPING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

n LANDSCAPING IN THE SOUTH WEST n DEALING WITH COMP LAINTS n ROBOTIC MOWERS n MITSUBISHI L200 BARBARIAN n HAMPT ON COURT

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azine.com

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As well as the printed magazine, The Landscaper has a comprehensive digital offering, including newsletters, a free-to-read page turner and a busy website www.landscapermagazine.com. We are now looking for another freelance sales associate to help continue our growth and work on an exciting new expansion development we are planning for 2018. The successful applicant should have an interest in landscaping and be committed to providing our advertisers and potential advertisers with information in a professional friendly manner. Please send CV to david@landscapermagazine.com or call 07780 967 735 for an initial discussion.

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