The Landscaper Magazine | September 2021

THE SEPTEMBER 2021

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AUTOMATION: Hands free machinery

KEEPING TRIM: arborist tools for the season ahead LAND MANAGEMENT: Re-wilding site showcases best environmental practice

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But, while it may be all hands on deck for The British weather lived up arborists over the next few months, Greg Rhodes to expectations this summer! has other ideas on managing a workload for those Somewhat unpredictable and on the tools. He has been investigating the rise typically erratic. The rain did its of automated machines at a project being run at best at times to try and dampen Harper Adams College researching the cutting the mood as we ventured out, Call us on: edge of robotic technology on a large scale. Follow jabbed up and ready to go, to meet the story on page 18, where Greg discovers that long lost colleagues face to face once although there are still many hurdles to overcome, again at various summer shows and events across hands-free machinery may well be coming to a the country. pitch near you in the not too distant future.

And now as autumn blusters in, we continue to Plenty more to read too - from a review on the network as more trade shows open up and take Toyota Hilux (page 37) to a project recently opened us to likes of SALTEX and the Landscape Show by landscapersDEALERS Ground Control to showcase (both incidentallyUSED at the NEC running side by side MACHINERY QUALITY GROUNDCARE best practice in managing biodiversity and the in November). Don’t forget, too that we’ve still environment within the industry. to visit the floral extravaganza that is the RHS Chelsea Flower Show (September 21-26) to be held for the first time in the Fall. Do put the dates in diary - these exhibitions are well worth the visit.

As the leaves fall it also heralds a time to start on plans for pruning and cutting back of hedgerows and trees. The nesting season Maggie Walsh, Editor is generally over, so it is pretty safe to say no maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk fledglings or birds are likely to be disturbed. And if you take a look at page 28 you’ll find some top tools that will keep the peace with the neighbours Next issue copy deadline: SALTEX issue: September 23rd, 2021. too – noise reduction is key to many power To advertise please email us at landscaper@sheengate.co.uk products today – as you go about your work.

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The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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CONTENTS

Editor Maggie Walsh | 07787 555 798 | maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk

News........................................................................ 09

Contributors Greg Rhodes | George Barrow | Paula Warman

Appointments......................................................... 14

Media sales executive Jana Silver | 0208 939 5600 | landscaper@sheengate.co.uk Design and production Lucas-studio.co.uk Circulation and subscriptions Maggie Walsh | maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk The Landscaper is owned and published by Sheengate Publishing Ltd. The Landscaper is an entirely independent magazine. It is not a member of any trade association or society.

Events........................................................................15 SALTEX preview...................................................... 16 Hands free machinery.......................................... 18 Landscaper's Circle............................................... 26 Arborist tool review.............................................. 28

Sheengate Publishing Ltd Unit A4, Kingsway Business Park Oldfield Road, Hampton TW12 2HD 0208 939 5600

Landscape & environment................................... 32

www.sheengate.co.uk

Work vehicles......................................................... 37

www.landscapermagazine.com

Landscaping & design........................................... 34

RHS Chelsea review.............................................. 38

Managing director Alex Whitney

Groundscare and Turf........................................... 42

Publisher Con Crowley 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. Copyright © 2021

Cover Story: The all-new Helion Alpha hedge-trimmer with an on-board 260 battery being used at plant nursery Readyhedge. Pellenc products are exclusively distributed in the UK by Etesia UK. For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.pellencuk.com

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The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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NEWS

Horticulture exports fall Impact of post-Brexit trade restrictions sees value of horticultural exports drop almost 40% says the HTA

Increased costs and restrictions on the UK horticulture industry to export to the EU have seen a marked drop in the value of trade in the first six months of the year, demonstrating a missed opportunity for the sector to grow its contribution to UK ‘green trade’.

Research conducted by the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) shows that exports of live plants and plant materials* from the UK to the EU between January and June this year were valued at £9.7m, compared with £16m in the same period of 2019 – a decrease of 39%. Rest of the world sales have remained broadly static. This, says the HTA, shows that although the EU is still the largest market for British horticultural products, the industry is not growing as it could. Extra new administrative costs and restrictions are resulting in British horticulture businesses choosing not to pursue markets in the EU. “We had long suspected that this heavy-handed regime would put too many barriers in the way of those who had hoped to grow a customer base in Europe.

Much of the £24bn horticulture industry is made up of small and medium sized businesses (SMEs) who want to champion ‘green trade’ and export the hugely iconic British plants, seeds and trees we produce here.

However, the bureaucratic obstacles and huge costs are making it business-sapping and unviable. This is preventing SMEs to grow and lead a post-Brexit trade renaissance,” says James Clark, Director of Policy and Communications at the HTA. First-hand experiences of HTA members tell a story of businesses frustrated by problems transporting their live

plants combined with the additional costs and complexity of inspections and necessary paperwork. These factors combined mean that it simply isn’t viable for many to trade with customers on the continent.

Says David Millais, who runs Millais Nurseries near Farnham in Surrey: “Before Brexit, we exported 5-10% of our production to botanic gardens and specialist plant centres, and to many repeat retail customers, who bought directly from our website.

We redesigned our website to enable us to capitalise on this market and grew this part of the business by 20%. Brexit has completely stopped this. The disproportionate inspection and freight charges now mean there is no point in attempting to send small orders to Europe because the costs make exports unviable for all concerned.”

David Fryer, Head of Technical at seed company Mr Fothergill’s of Newmarket, explains the situation: “We’re having to spend so much time navigating the cost of inspections and certificates, the cost of planning and management and the risk of consignment delays or rejections, plus limitations on what we can export now and reduced customer confidence means that we are unable to focus on growth in the EU while we manage these new ways of working.”

The HTA’s ‘Let Britain Grow’ campaign calls on the Government to review existing inspection levels and costs and negotiate a plant health agreement between the UK and the EU. This will enable the multi-billion pound sector to boost the nation’s economic growth and fuel international trade post-Brexit.

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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NEWS

New Chapter for turf festival The turfcare industry reunited for the first time in over 18 months at the Warwickshire Event Centre as the inaugural Festival of Turf took place beneath clear blue skies.

With live music playing on a grand stage and ample opportunities for networking, the exhibition brought a celebratory festival feel, aided by clear sunshine and warm weather.

COVID protocols ensured the health and safety of those in attendance who came to visit more than 40 exhibitors from across the turfcare industry showcasing their latest innovations and products.

Among the highlights was John Ledwidge, head of sports turf and grounds at Leicester City FC taking to the grand stage for a Q&A session hosted by Martin Smart of Turf Business, who were official media partners for the event.

Also taking place was the presentation of the BIGGA Excellence in Communication Award sponsored by Campey Turf Care Systems, which saw James Bledge, course manager at Royal Cinque Ports, awarded the top prize for a thought-provoking feature he produced on the use of bunker rakes.

BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton said: “We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to all the exhibitors who signed up to support BIGGA and its members at what we hope is the beginning of a strong new chapter for the golf and wider sports turf industry.

“There was a tremendous atmosphere as visitors and suppliers came together face-to-face for the first time in 18 months and the overriding feeling was one of optimism.

While visitor numbers were not as high as hoped for,

Q & A with John Ledwidge, head of sports turf and grounds at Leicester City FC

those who did attend engaged meaningfully with the exhibitors and reconnected with friends and peers.

“Our thanks go to everyone who came along and rekindled old friendships, struck new deals and enjoyed being together after so long apart.

BIGGA now turns its attention to BTME, taking place in January 2022, returning to the Harrogate Convention Centre for the first time since 2020.

BTME will take place from Tuesday 25 to Thursday 27 January 2022. Visitor registration will open this autumn.

There will also be the return of in-person learning as BIGGA’s world leading Continue to Learn education programme returns to the venue on Sunday 23 to Wednesday 26 January 2022.

Open space management company gains carbon neutral status Open space management company Meadfleet have achieved carbon neutral status and are the first in their industry sector to accomplish this.

With climate change front and centre for the construction industry, it’s never been more important for supplier companies like Meadfleet to demonstrate the value they can bring to housebuilders who are under increasing pressure to embrace climate action.

As a carbon neutral open space management company, Meadfleet offer clients a range of services that are designed to promote sustainability and reduce environmental harm. For housebuilders with climate action on their agenda, it’s the perfect match.

Meadfleet is a signatory of the UN Climate Neutral Now initiative which was launched in 2015 to encourage organisations around the globe to work together to achieve a climate-neutral world by 2050. Paul Miller,

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Chairman at Meadfleet said, “As part of our long-term commitment to fighting climate change, we’ve pledged to measure, reduce and offset our carbon emissions every year. This year, we have chosen to offset our annual emissions with carbon credits from Ripple Africa, a UK charity with a UN verified offsetting scheme in Malawi.

“In addition to offsetting our current emissions, we’ve chosen to go one step further and offset all historical carbon emissions, equivalent to more than our estimated total emissions for the past 25 years – since Meadfleet first began.

“Achieving carbon neutral status is an important first step but we must stress that climate action is a long-term mission for Meadfleet. We’re fully committed to reducing the impact Meadfleet has on the planet for years to come, by reducing emissions, protecting trees and plants in our care and promoting sustainability.”

NEWS

GMA survey for turf-care industry

The Grounds Management Association (GMA), one year after offering those working or volunteering in the industry a chance to shape its future membership offerings, is once again opening the door for feedback from the turf-care community.

Members and non-members are being asked for feedback on what they value and would like to see the GMA do for its members and the wider sector going forwards, by taking part in two surveys - one for individuals working across the sector and one for businesses or suppliers operating in the turfcare industry. The two surveys will be open until mid September 2021.

The GMA previously conducted industry research in August 2020 and is looking to build on this research whilst gathering further feedback to inform its activity over the following year, particularly with changing priorities now the national outlook looking increasingly positive as the UK continues to take its final steps out of the pandemic.

By gathering data, the GMA will look to review its existing benefits to members, as well as what it can offer the sector by looking to better understand what

respondents believe to be most valuable and relevant following a year like no other. The GMA is also working on its digital offering, with its website due to be relaunched in 2022.

Geoff Webb, CEO at the GMA, explains: "A lot has changed over the 12 months, since we concluded our previous insight surveys. We know that having a professional community for networking and support can be a vital strength but crucially, we want to continue listening to our members and the turf-care community.

"We have a number of plans for the months ahead and want to ensure that our work continues to be informed by insight so, whether you're a profesional or volunteer, or represent a supplier or service, your opinion matters. Take part in our survey and help us shape a positive future.”

Respondents of the survey will have the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win one of four £50 VEX gift certificates. Respondents can also choose to remain anonymous.

To find out how to join in with the survey visit: thegma.org.uk/news/GMA%20-membership-survey-2021

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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NEWS

Green-tech achieves ISO accreditation for 10th year running

The Green-tech team, proud of their achievment

Green-tech is delighted to have been awarded ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015 status for the 10th year running.

ISO Certification is a seal of approval from an external body whereby a company complies to one of the internationally recognised ISO management systems.

ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 are two of the ISO's most wellknown standards. They are implemented by more than a million organisations in over 170 countries.

ISO 9001 is a Quality Management System (QMS) which gives organisations a systematic approach for meeting customer objectives and providing consistent quality. ISO 14001 is an Environmental Management System (EMS) for measuring and improving environmental impact.

Green-tech had to undertake a rigorous audit to retain its accreditation status, which they first achieved in 2011.

The requirements have changed over the last decade and the company has successfully kept up to date and adapted to meet these changes.

ISO 9001 requires Green-tech to demonstrate that they have a Quality Management System which ensures consistency and improvement in their service. Greentech has committed to continuous improvement and

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can have their ISO status removed if they are unable to demonstrate that progress is maintained.

ISO 14001 requires Green-tech to manage their environmental impact. The company had to demonstrate that they have an environmental policy in place and a plan to manage their environmental impact.

The British Assessment Bureau is a leading Certification Body, that carries out the independent assessment to confirm and document that Green-tech runs its business in accordance with these rigorous standards.

Mark Wood, Business Development Director commenting on the certification, “We take our corporate responsibility very seriously and working within the ISO framework helps Green-tech to deliver high levels of business performance and customer service. It is not an easy thing to achieve, and we are one of a handful of landscaping companies with this accreditation to our name, so I am delighted that we met the audit’s indepth scrutiny to retain our ISO status. We hope it gives our stakeholders, customers and suppliers independent reassurance of our commitment to delivering quality products and service and our pledge to reducing our environment impact whilst becoming a more sustainable organisation.”

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APPOINTMENTS

Moving places The Landscaper Magazine congratulates the following in their new roles across the landscaping and turf care industries New appointment for Countrywide Grounds Maintenance Countrywide Grounds Maintenance welcomes Phil Rogers as the new Business Development Manager. With 25 years of experience in the industry he will oversee operations across Northern England and Scotland.

Phil Rogers Speaking on his appointment, Rogers says: "I am excited to get started and work with our northern teams, maintaining our quality service and growing the customer base.

"We want to continue to grow our presence across the UK, allowing us to serve more customers and develop employment to benefit local economies. Directly employing local people is key to our success; they take pride in their community and have an invested interest to provide a great service.”

New Technical Area Sales Managers for ICL ICL has announced the appointment of Rob Ainscough and Fergal Greenan company as technical area sales managers.

Rob, who will manage the territory across North West England, has always held an Fergal Greenan interest in the science behind sports surfaces, which he says was ignited after playing a wide range of sports from an early age. Following a stint of work experience with grounds staff at Bolton Wanderers FC , he decided to pursue a career in sports turf. He undertook a National Diploma at Myerscough Rob Ainscough College, during which time he volunteered to be part of the greenkeeping team at the Scottish Open at Loch Lomond Golf Course.

Rob then spent time in Australia working at Manly Golf Club and Royal Sydney Golf Club and on his return to the UK he took up an old position at Leigh Golf Club, Cheshire and was quickly promoted to Head Greenkeeper at 25 years old.

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Fergal Greenan, will assist sales across Ireland. His extensive skillset has been displayed while working on various major golf courses in the US through the prestigious Ohio State Program.

He also boasts a degree in Agricultural Science, Horticulture, Landscape and Sports Turf Management and a Certificate in Teaching, utilised in his previous role as a lecturer at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) in Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Fergal will be working under Colman Warde, Ireland Country Manager, to build the business and to support ICL distributors.

Change in leadership at Reesink UK Reesink UK has announced that David Cole will be stepping down from his role managing director in April 2022.

David has passionately and successfully overseen the company’s turfcare, agriculture, used machinery and electric David Cole vehicles business since 2014, and had previously worked for the former Lely business between 1990-1999. The reasons for his departure are personal; he says: “There are no business reasons attached to this, only personal. The unexpected loss of my wife last year was a huge blow.

And after seeing the business through some strange and challenging times and identifying clearer waters ahead, my desire now is to spend more time with and focus on my grandchildren.”

Leading the recruitment process alongside David is Roon Hylkema, divisional director of Reesink UK’s parent company, Royal Reesink. Roon comments: “Reesink UK is one of the UK’s leading turfcare distributors and has 38 years working with The Toro Company, as such the role of managing director presents an exciting opportunity for the right candidate.

“The company has history on its side, stability and longevity, but also exciting growth opportunities as we look to continue David’s good work diversifying our offering, introducing new brands and new product lines that compliment our core activities.”

Work will start shortly to identify David’s successor and to enable a handover period before next April.

EVENTS

Iseki roadshow ISEKI UK & Ireland are on the road this September and October. Joining local dealers they will be showcasing their full range of compact tractors and mowers at a variety of sites across England, Scotland and Wales.

Each location will offer opportuntities to test drive the machines and meet the ISEKI staff with full and professional demonstrations offered throughout each day.

Whether you are looking for a versatile sub compact 23hp tractor or a 67hp tractor there is a machine to suit your needs. Or there's a chance to hop on a range of mowers, from the renowned cut and collect SF and SXG range, to the fearsome SRA brushcutters, capable of cutting anything it can push over.

Put the date in your diary.

7th & 8th Sept AYLESBURY RT Machinery, Brackwell Farm 9th Sept CHESHIRE Sharrocks, Woodside Golf Club, Crewe 21st Sept NORTH WALES Llyn ATV, Glasyfrn Parc, Y Ffor 22nd Sept SURREY Ernest Doe Power, Staines Rugby Club 23rd Sept READING John Day Engineering Depot 28th Sept CORNWALL Nigel Rafferty Groundcare, Royal Cornwall Showground 29th Sept DEVON MST Group, Bicton College

30th Sept DORSET ABA Groundcare, Kingston Maurward College, Dorchester 5th Oct TURRIFF Balgownie, Turriff Showground 4, 6, 7 & 8th Oct SCOTLAND Gammies 11th Oct EDINBURGH Fairways GM 12th Oct GLASGOW Fairways GM 13th Oct NEWCASTLE Rickerby 14th Oct COUNTY DURHAM Rickerby, Knotty Hill Golf Club, Stock-on-Tees 18th Oct WORCESTERSHIRE TH White, Redditch 19th Oct LINCOLNSHIRE Chandlers Farm Equipment, Belton Depot 20th Oct OXFORDSHIRE Turney Group 21st Oct EAST ANGLIA Ernest Doe & Sons, Tewin Bury Hotel, Welwyn.

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The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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SALTEX PREVIEW

Innovation at SALTEX

Geoff Webb awards John Coleman (left) the 2019 Innovation for Cub Cadet INFINICUT®

As the date for the return of the renowned trade show SALTEX approaches, organisers the Grounds Management Association (GMA) has announced additional, new categories to the SALTEX Innovation Award, a prestigious hallmark for products showcasing the future of groundscare.

Since its launch at SALTEX in 2017, the Innovation Award has helped to highlight some of the most groundbreaking, innovative products and services within the groundscare industry and this year, visitors will notice some remarkable differences.

There are now several innovation categories, which include: • Machinery • Hand tools • Consumables • Vehicles • Environmental / Sustainability • Information technology • Equipment • Robotics All submitted entries are evaluated by an independent panel of judges before a final shortlist is devised. The finalists will be announced in the lead-up to the show and the winners will be named in each and every category in a seminar theatre on the first day of SALTEX (3 November, 2021).

Visitors will get the chance to see every entry on the show floor. By referring to either the SALTEX website or

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the show guide, they can pin-point the innovations they want to see and make their way to the relevant stands.

Entering the SALTEX Innovation Award is an unmissable opportunity for exhibitors as every innovation will be featured on the trade show’s website and in the official show guide – helping to draw even more of a crowd to their stand.

The worthy winners will not only be presented with the coveted award at the exhibition but will also receive postshow media coverage.

Commenting on the award, GMA CEO Geoff Webb says: “We launched the SALTEX Innovation Award to celebrate the very best in new groundscare technology.

The competition has significantly grown year on year, and the Innovation Award has helped to put a wide number of products on the map.

“After considering the wide variety of innovations which enter the competition each year, we felt it appropriate to introduce several categories rather than just one overall winner.”

Rigby Taylor’s Intelligent One autonomous robotic line marker and Fleet Line Markers’ MAQA line marking machine were joint winners of the first ever SALTEX Innovation Award. In 2018, Agrovista Amenity’s groundbreaking new app, PrecisionPro, picked up the award, and The Cub Cadet INFINICUT® SM34 Rotary Mower was crowned the winner of the 2019 Innovation Award.

Entries for this year are now open at www.gmasaltex.co.uk/innovation-of-the-year-award/

EVENTS

Birthday celebrations for the Landscape Show The industry show, LANDSCAPE is pleased to announce its 10th anniversary show will take place on Wednesday 3rd & Thursday 4th November 2021, at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.

Partnering with The Landscaper Magazine the event brings together our common goal of promoting, supporting and inspiring landscaping professionals to be leaders of an environmentally, ethically and commercially sustainable landscape services industry.

Welcoming over 200 exhibitors with a vast collection of industry-leading products and services, LANDSCAPE 2021 is free to attend and offers a chance for those working in landscaping and design the chance to keep up to date with the latest news and innovations within the industry.

LANDSCAPE research suggests that 86% of visitors are very likely to recommend and use an exhibitor for a future project, and the exhibitor list continues to go from strength-to-strength year-on-year.

This year there will be 44 seminars across two days offering the most up-to-date and current seminar programme in the industry with lighting, arboriculture,

rooftop gardens and climate change being just some of the many topics on the agenda.

The event will be open from 10am-6pm on Wednesday 3rd November and 10am-5pm on Thursday 4th November. To register for free tickets visit the registration page at www.landscapeshow.co.uk/register

Retail therapy at GLEE Glee 2021 lands at the NEC Birmingham from the 14th – 16th September, 2021. This year the garden retail event brings over 300 brands to the exhibition roster, covering eight core product sectors – garden care, landscaping and garden decoration, outdoor entertaining, plants, jome, gift and Clothing, PAW (pet & animal wellbeing), retail services and experiences, and food and catering.

As well as debut brands, visitors to the show can expect to see the return of big brands such as Landmann, Apollo Gardening and Azpects.

A Glee Connect app will help guide visitors to new products and provide a chance for some networking.

There will also be a free, three-day seminar programme organised in conjunction with the HTA (Horticultural Trades Association), providing an enriched programme of expert business and garden retail advice to help grow business through challenging trading conditions. This content will be derived from extensive industry research and is set to tackle key talking points, struggles and successes. In addition, the Glee New Product Awards and Buyers Power List will celebrate the best the industry has to offer.

Free tickets are available by registering at www.gleebirmingham.com

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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FEATURE

Look, no hands The age of machinery automation is nigh, Greg Rhodes discovers, but there are some hurdles to surmount before we go hands-free without risk or worry Across the expansive acres of Harper Adams University, automated machines are growing the UK’s first arable crop remotely, without operators in the driving seat or agronomists on the ground.

The future is ringing out loud and clear in agriculture as manufacturers and suppliers clamour to operate at the cutting edge of mechatronic and robotic technology.

The University continually attracts sector suitors willing to fund, donate equipment and support research into ways machinery can do without drivers and operators. Such is the momentum of change that its application into the sports and amenity sectors is a formality surely.

Yes, we already have robotic mowers but here we’re talking wholesale technology transfer to embrace tractors, sprayers, diverse turf machinery and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Through its Hands Free Farm, Hands Free Hectare and National Centre for Precision Farming

initiatives, the University has become a leader in the drive towards remotely operated and automated technology, working closely with partners to help roll out tomorrow’s world.

Mechatronics researcher Jonathan Gill, who holds a B.Eng in Robotics and Automated Systems and is a UAV pilot, has just finished a hectic week harvesting this year’s crop.

He’s pretty sure how the future is shaping up and big isn’t necessarily beautiful. “Smaller vehicles are less challenging and safe by design,” he states, a judgment that’s prompted by extensive hands-on experience in the field.

With this technology, “things don’t scale up in agriculture”, he adds, and believes the same will apply in sport and amenity. Multiples of smaller units are his thinking rather than fewer, larger ones.

Kit trialled at Harper Adams could find application in groundscare. Syngenta and other partners tested a system of hyper weeding to

Hands free seed drilling

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FEATURE

selectively identify and irradiate weeds within a The Amazone unit operating at Harper Adams crop using “hyperspectral imaging, destructive is one of the first machines undertaking remotely tracking lasers and precision spraying”. operated spraying, Jonathon reveals. However, he The Synergy project brief was to investigate, develop leaves nothing to chance on safety grounds. “I am PA2 and evaluate a framework for “platooning of closely certified, which allows me to ensure safe application, spaced autonomous vehicles”. just in case, and I am always in the vicinity when the Iseki is due to begin work at Harper Adams to sprayer’s in use. explore use of their autonomous compact tractors “It’s smart enough to only spray within a pre-set (up to 48 hp) for grounds maintenance duties – boundary and dosage rates are set only at boom “on golf courses and football pitches width although there is single nozzle for example,” says Jonathan, following control. Certainly the sprayer could be their successful application in the applied to sportsfields, along with the University’s agricultural setting over appropriate tractor.” the last four years.

Working with Autonomous Spray Such driverless vehicles currently Systems on their R150 autonomous have the `fail-safe` of an operator spray robot, the University trialled the overseeing their activity within visual electrical vehicle in March on its Handsdistance, he explains.

Free Hectare field, during one of the “Tractors powered between 90 and wettest weeks of the year.

300 hp operate in standard agriculture,” “The spray tank was filled with he continues, “but multiple, smaller 100 litres of liquid, fresh batteries machines cause less compaction [a dropped in and a 3m wide grid spray factor vital in sportsturf maintenance] pattern programmed ready to go,” the and are easier to automate.” company explained.

Precision spraying is not only “The soil type is `Soilscape 18’ key in tending crops but also when and described as slowly permeable, applying treatment liquids on sports seasonally wet, slightly acid, rich loamy, surfaces, amenity settings and aquatic clayey soil,” it continued. A conventional environments. tractor would not have been able to Control panel for Amazone sprayer

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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FEATURE

Jonathan Gill with Iseki tractors

have been used because it would have caused too much damage. At just 300 kg fully loaded, the R150 “barely left a mark”, nor was the steering thrown by the slippery surface, the company added.

The McConnel flail is also proving its worth, controlling weed growth across the University’s grounds since the manufacturer supplied a unit for long-term evaluation, Jonathan says.

One of the main constraints in developing automated and remotely controlled machines and equipment is generating a system that guarantees to stop moving

when it confronts an obstacle such as a human being.

“The solution is only a couple of years away, hopefully,” Jonathan says, as only when machines have that intrinsic safety built in can they be let loose in the public domain, where people may be walking along a footpath across a golf course or parkland.

Since 2017, the Centre has also focused on operating, designing and programming drones and their associated control systems and role within agriculture.

Commanding “massive potential for seeding and spraying in agriculture”, says Jonathan, drones will quickly attract keen eyes as a ready method of materials and liquids application in sport and amenity.

A two-day demonstration of 26 kg drones on www.cerealsevent.co.uk in June proved a resounding success, he reports, but there’s a hitch. “We’d love to work with them to their true capability but under the Chemicals Regulation Division of HSE rules, no drone can apply any active ingredient, whatever the sector,” Jonathan states. He’s lobbying MPs and government in the hope of modifying these regulations, he adds, but that’s still work in hand.

There’s one thing the years of testing hands-free machinery has told him though. “The age of automation is coming.” And quickly, it seems.

Automated boom sprayer

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KING FEEDERS UK SPECIALIST SHREDDING & COMPOSTING EQUIPMENT

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Large or small, doesn’t matter. A compact that gets more jobs done.

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The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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Expert 900 Series 48V Garden tool battery technology

Proven The brains and the brawn.

Engineered for real-life working conditions, not just to pass a lab test.

From cutting to trimming, mowing to leaf blowing – whatever tool they’re powering, STIGA batteries are tested at their full ‘real-life’ usage current.

That’s up to 600 charges; equivalent to using it twice a week for six years.

This goes far beyond the expectations of the commonly used but less demanding Industry Standard, which tests through only 300 charges at just 20% of the reallife usage current.

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SEEDS AND MIXES

It’s sow time!

Jayne Leyland of Rigby Taylor advises on an autumn sow for summer show and recommends some colourful mixes Flowers are a valuable resource for enriching the urban environment. They support biodiversity, produce stunning vistas and generally brighten up parkland, housing estates, verges, entrances to towns and cities, roundabouts and cemeteries. Also, mowing frequency can be reduced by sowing flower seeds instead of grass.

Euroflor mixes recommended for autumn sowing for flowering the following year.

• Alliance: Combination of red Field (or Common) Poppies and Cornflowers. Adds a splash of colour to out of play sparse roughs.

• Boulevard: Low growing, 100% native & naturalised perennials. Perfect for driveway entrance and mixed borders.

• Cornfield annuals: Classic cornfield mix - excellent in out of play sparse roughs • Cornflowers: 100% Cornflowers. Mainly blue but also shades of pink and white.

• Endurance: For shallow, free draining, impoverished soils. Perfect for heat traps - eliminates the need for annual sowings.

• Flora britannica: 100% native and naturalised species recommend for ecological conservation schemes, riversides and out of play areas.

• Native pollinator: 100% UK native and naturalised flora - abundant nectar and pollen. A more discreet flowering display for environmentally sensitive sites.

• Poppies: 100% Field (or Common) Poppies of exceptional purity and germination.

•R ainbow perennials: Predominantly perennial species for extended flowering and more permanent displays from spring to late autumn • Spring flower: Earlier spring source of nectar and pollen - may flower a second period in autumn if cut back after flowering.

Advantages of autumn sowing 1. Earlier flowering displays the following year.

2. Advantageous for perennial mixes, which first flower the year after sowing.

3. P erfect time for sowing 100% native & naturalised species.

4. Reduces the impact of spring climatic variability such as drought or late frosts.

Summer preparation 1. C ut existing vegetation down to 5cm or lower in July/ August to prevent self-seeding.

Euroflor Alliance Mixtures

2. If using a glyphosate such as Hi-Aktiv, to control existing vegetation, apply 7 to 10 days after cutting to allow for re-growth.

3. Cultivate and prepare an early seed bed in August/ September (depending on season).

4. Let the weed seed bank germinate and either treat again, hoe or harrow the area to reduce weed species.

5. FloraFleece is a biodegradable weed suppressant matting as an excellent alternative to herbicide control and eliminates the need for cultivation prior to sowing.

When to sow Sow Euroflor mixes at 3-4g per square metre in late August – September (north & east), late August – mid October (south & west). Apply a pre-seed organic based fertiliser such as Apex 4-6-4, particularly if soil fertility is impoverished. Ensure seeds are in good contact with the soil and keep seed and seedlings moist until well established.

Euroflor 100% flower seed, unlike “wildflower” seed, is germination tested just like grass seed. Low maintenance comes from just one cut per year in autumn after seeds have ripened and fallen and a sowing rate of just 3g per square metre means 1kg of Euroflor covers approximately 333 square metres, making it an extremely cost-effective and rewarding choice for enhancing the landscape.

For more information visit: www.rigbytaylor.com/flower-seed/euroflor or call freephone 0800 424919

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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Our planet is changing Join us on our journey

100% Biodegradable 100% Compostable 100% Sustainable Made in the UK by Ezee Tree Ltd Available from

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1st Products Professional tractor-mounted equipment Distributed exclusively in the UK by Reesink Turfcare

One tool. Multiple applications. The AERA-Vator. Tackle more with your tractor.

Tackle dozens of jobs with this versatile and cost-effective tractor-mounted aerator and deliver healthy, professional turf all-year-round. With its unique universal frame system, extra shafts can be added to expand its capabilities, including a Multi-Tine, Multi-Slicer, Multi-Spike and a non-PTO Coring shaft. With the 1st Products add-on tractor tools you really can add more and do more.

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Reesink UK LTD is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Images shown for illustration only.

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10/08/2021 09:35

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

For all your irrigation needs, just yell TWL! TWL Irrigation offers an extensive range of hand watering products, tools and irrigation controllers with decoders. ● TurfSpy Early Stress Detection Glasses, developed by NASA, can identify disease, drought, plant and turf or vegetation problems two to 10 days before it is visible to the naked eye. ● The Magnum has a ratchet mechanism that easily adjusts from gentle fan to jet stream and is an excellent equipment wash-down nozzle. ● The Precision range of nozzles are for specific tasks on greens, tees, seed beds transplants and delicate landscaped areas. Collectively the Rainbow, Rainmaker, Cloudburst and Cyclone will syringe, spot water, drench dry spots, pre-game skim or heavily water large areas. ● PelletPro heavy-duty surfactant applicator gun with the high-flow valve and Precision "Cloudburst" nozzle combo, makes it the finest wetting agent gun available, accepting all wetting agent tablets. Providing a high volume, yet soft spray for watering or applying surfactants to tight, hydrophobic soils with a pellet rotation that evenly dissolves tablets. 132L/min gets the job done faster! ● LiquidPro can virtually "paint" your turf with liquid wetting agents, fertilizers and micronutrients by covering a 92 square metres area in less than a minute! ● EasyOutspray head removal and replacement tool makes light work of replacing a broken sprinkler and fits all major spray head brands. There are two different sizes available. No digging or damage to turf required, saving time and money by removing broken sprinkler in 3 minutes or less! ● The Drain Blaster nozzle has a name that says it all!

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RM-2 is wall-mounted and does not need a dedicated PC, as all its web pages are contained internally. It does not need a dedicated server. Any of the usual web browsers can be used to access the RM-2 which can be connected to the Internet using Ethernet, WiFi, or 4G mobile data. Maximum 508 stations. Amazingly low-priced compared to similar controllers.

Please visit www.twl-irrigation.com to view all of our products.

LiquidPro Wetting Agent.

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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LANDSCAPER’S CIRCLE

Take the worry out of business growth When the pressure is on growing a landscaping business can at times be overwhelming. Here Paula Warman offers some stress busting tips

When I speak to fellow business owners within the industry, many suggest that as their business expands it seems to catapult them to more stress and a bigger to-do list. Already busy, working evenings and sometimes weekends to keep on top of it all – why would you want to add to that?

However, if done correctly growing a business can be a fun and even a cathartic experience. From my own experiences and listening to those within our networking community, there are three methods that can help reduce stress and positively impact your work/life balance.

Outsource or hire for your weaknesses The place to start is to get rid of your weaknesses.

This allows you to focus on your strengths, aiding the business in its growth and better serving your clients.

Not only does finding better talent were you maybe lacking, free up your time, but also results in those tasks being done more effectively. Whether you choose to outsource parts of the business in a skill or hire an employee, utilising skilled people for your weaknesses changes them into your business’ strengths.

that can be better spent big dreaming, making, and implementing plans. Working on the business rather than in it.

Hire for your strengths This might seem a bit strange, why would you want to get rid of the tasks you’re good at? Well, areas of strength for you aren’t necessarily what you’re passionate about.

For example, you might be great at managing your business’ social media, but you don’t enjoy it. It takes up a lot of your time and doesn’t light that spark inside of you.

By investing in a social media management company or hiring in-house, you’re not compromising on the quality and you’re freeing up your time. Time

Naturally grow your income It is well researched that what you focus on, grows.

By implementing new ideas, planning ahead for the business and focusing on income generating tasks, you scale your income naturally.

Although I have mentioned hiring employees, large teams are not the only way to grow and scale your income. Plus, growing your company doesn’t have to mean taking on more projects at any given time.

• For a free masterclass on tried and tested business strategies visit www.thelandscaperscircle.co.uk/masterclass

Outsource work to help fill gaps in your business

The Landscaper’s Circle is the only online platform exclusively for business owners in the landscaping industry to learn how to market and run their business better. Become part of the #TLCTribe today for training and support. If you need our help please email at info@thelandscaperscircle.co.uk | www.thelandscaperscircle.co.uk

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Autumn sowing for spring showing

The Perennial Choice

There are now eleven perennial Euroflor mixtures recommended for autumn sowing that not only provide wonderful colour displays during the following spring and summer.

Autumn sowing can take place from August through to October for flowering the following spring and summer.

Euroflor seeds are available in 1kg packs.

Project Pollin-8 is a Rigby Taylor Also available are Autumn Discovery boxes of initiative to help arrest the decline 10 x 50g foil sachets (either single or a on the UK bee population. combination of mixtures) to provide the Crucially, springtime flowers opportunity to try out different colour provide an earlier seasonal combinations and growth habits. supply of energy-rich nectar and At a typical mid-range sowing rate, a 50g pollen, sustaining pollinators when sachet will cover approximately 12.5 sq.m. resources are most scarce.

All mixtures are available to view and purchase from the website below.

An Ecological Initiative

For more information log on to:

www.rigbytaylor.com

Member of Origin Amenity Solutions

0800 424919

www.rigbytaylor.com sales@rigbytaylor.com

ARBORIST

Cutting back Now the birds have safely flown the nest Maggie Walsh takes a look at some of the latest products on the market to help arborists plan their autumn schedule they were not going to be up to the job. In my opinion, nothing could compare to petrol.

But he stood corrected and followed the lead from nursery manager Liam Ireland, who invested in the Pellenc range of tools. Now Stuart appreciates the power behind the battery. Not only are the machines light, odourless, noise-free with no starting problems, they have enough power to enable professional users to work for a full day on a single charge.

A forerunner when it comes to lithium-ion technology, Pellenc has established itself as the number one choice in the 'zero emission' professional power tools market for the maintenance of urban and green-spaces.

A recent addition to the Pellenc range is the all-new Helion Alpha hedge-trimmer with an on-board 260 battery. It allows precision pruning of hedges or other shrubs, particularly on hard, dry wood. It’s cutter bar combines increased thickness (2.25 mm), tooth opening (33 mm) and strength, a winning trio that makes this tool perfect for all types of cutting, from pruning to finishing.

STHIL long reach trimmer

Did you know that Under Section 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it’s an offence to intentionally damage or destroy a wild bird’s nest while it is being built or in use?

That includes consciously using a hedge trimmer or other power equipment when there is a bird’s nest in the hedge or tree. According to Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) rules state a ban on cutting hedges and trees between March 1st and September 1st without a derogation - an exemption from the rule. So, while there are some exceptions, the general rule of thumb is plan such work during the autumn and winter months, unless prior permissions have been sort and given.

But now that the birds have flow the nest, we can settle into some hedge work, with some of the latest tools to help ease the load.

Battery Power Suppliers of instant hedging, Readyhedge have a history of using the best products to keep their nursery stock in good health. But Stuart Robertson, who works at the Pershore based nursery, was traditionally a petrol head and didn’t believe anything else could do the job justice until he came across the Pellenc range of tools.

“Before I started working at Readyhedge, I only ever used petrol machinery,” says Stuart. “When I picked up the Pellenc tools for the first time, I honestly thought that

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Pellenc Helion Alpha hedge-trimmer in action at Readyhedge

The engine ensures excellent performance and allows for cuts of up to 33 mm in diameter. In addition to offering 3 different working speeds, it is 100% waterproof and provides complete safety. From an ergonomic standpoint, the hand grip and working visibility were conceived with particular care, with optimised balance and a new cutter bar orientation system.

Long reach trimmer Another front runner for commercial applications and trimming back large hedgerows is the recently launched STIHL HLA 135 – the most robust and powerful cordless long-reach hedge trimmer in its offering.

ARBORIST Weighing just 5.6kg (without battery), it is 249cm long and features 600mm double-sided, doubleedged universal blades that can cut through 16-18mm branches. The cutter bar can be rotated through 145 degrees via the lightweight magnesium gearbox to enable over-head, side and ground-level cutting.

A comfortable control handle boasts three-speed preselection levels through an LED display, enabling operators to alter working speeds, while optimising battery-working time. Maximum stroke rate is 4000rpm, perfect for leaving a smooth finish on conifers. Other features include a soft loop handle and grip shaft, RTS harness eyelet and mesh air filter. When used in conjunction with STIHL’s AP 200 battery system, the HLA 135 has a run time of up to 64 minutes.

Reduced friction Makita has also brought to market some trimmers to make light of the workload – the new UH004G and UH005G. These deliver a no-load speed of up to 5,000rpm and feature an asymmetric, double sided, curved, sharp-edged blade for easy trimming. The curved teeth reduce friction resistance to suppress energy loss and extend run time. What’s more, the inclined tooth edge enables the blade to easily catch, firmly hold and sharply cut twigs or thin branches up to 23.5mm for maximum efficiency.

Completing the new hedge trimmer collection, the UH006G and UH007G have been designed for trimming overgrown hedges and thick branches thanks to the noncurved, sharp-edged blade. These machines can cut thicker branches up to 25mm in diameter and are ideal for rough cutting.

Husar, owner of Oliver Husar Tree Services has undertaken for the past 18 years. The North Norfolk tree specialist swears by GreenMech’s latest EVO series and is a proud owner of the EVO 165D.

Husqvarna 530iPT5 designed to reach heights

“I’ve used all types and sizes of chipper, and when our previous machine began to struggle with costly agerelated issues, it was once again time to look at what options were out there,” he explains.

“When you’re comparing 6” machines, arguably the most critical element is the feed rollers – if you haven’t got the power, the grip and pull, the machine is useless.

This is noticeably where GreenMech have massively upped their game.”

GreenMech’s EVO series has been designed in direct response to industry demands to deliver more aggressive torque, more powerful bite and more throughput. The 165D features a 25hp Kubota diesel engine, twin horizontal rollers and unparalleled processing power via the new, heavy-duty flywheel.

Together with improved performance, the aspects of safety, durability and ease of maintenance have also been front of mind in its design.

“We had a look at the petrol version of the EVO 165 which packed some serious punch for its size however, as I’m not restricted to sub 750kg for towing, I went for the diesel model. The unit’s strength and build quality really impressed me and the size of the infeed hopper was a big plus.” Oliver adds.

Makita UH006G designed to trim thick branches

To get to giddy heights then why not try the Husqvarna 530iPT5 – a robust telescopic pole saw designed for the pruning/thinning of trees and cutting back thick tall hedges.

Weighing just 5kg this low weight battery pole saw has a 5 m telescopic reach and performance that surpasses the petrol equivalent. Its excellent ergonomics and quiet operation means it can be used in any location and at any time of the day.

Chips away Once the hedges and trees are cut, the task of collecting up and disposing of the branches looms. A job Oliver

Oliver Husar utilises his GreenMech EVO 165

For more details on any of the above products please visit: www.makitauk.com www.stihl.co.uk www.greenmech.co.uk www.husqvarna.com/uk www.pellencuk.com

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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DEMAND QUALITY, WHY COMPROMISE?

“The reliability of ISEKI SXG mowers cannot be beaten. After demonstrating a huge range of machines the ISEKI came out on top. They are good value for money, with excellent design and build quality. You can collect and collect whatever the weather. I would recommend ISEKI to anyone. “ Harry Flower Head Gardener, Blundell’s School, Tiverton Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your course today! www.iseki.co.uk

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Designed for every challenge The Award-winning design of the new XZ7 L152i from Cub Cadet redefines the zero-turn mowing experience – with enhanced strength, re-imagined comfort and a best-in-class cut.

The latest lap bar technology combined with the extremely robust construction of heavy-duty components and high-performance engine makes the XZ7 L152i the ideal professional machine for large lawn maintenance.

The open continuous tubular lightweight steel frame is designed for strength and durability. The hinged/ removable floor pan allows quick and easy access to the welded, all round reinforced AeroForce Max™ mowing deck and engine for ease of maintenance.

A powerful Kohler EFI V-Twin dual cylinder engine gives the machine the power to mow up to 15,000 m²h.

With a large cutting width of 60”/152cm, the machine puts owner/operator comfort at the forefront of its design with a premium high-back seat with armrests and adjustable suspension for fatigue-free working.

The XZ7 L152i is ideal for mowing rolling hills, with its outstanding stability on slopes, and around obstacles, with its effortless manoeuvrability. Even on the most difficult lawns the spring-mounted suspension on the front wheels ensure a smooth ride with less vibration.

At Cub Cadet we trust our new XZ7 L152i to perform with maximum durability and robustness and offer a warranty of 3 years or up to 500 working hours (whichever comes first) – for commercial or private use as well as offering a dealership service that delivers true advantages to you and your business.

The XZ7 L152i from Cub Cadet. Professional grade power for your business and your lawns.

For more information visit www.cubcadet.co.uk or contact Cub Cadet on 01869 363677.

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

31

LANDSCAPE & ENVIRONMENT

Rewilding for environmental recovery Ground Control opens a new £2m rewilding site in Essex to showcase best environmental and biodiversity practice

Ground Control director Kim Morrish

The UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26) summit takes place in Glasgow on 31 October – 12 November 2021. With just under two months until this summit begins, a new rewilding centre – one of the largest in the country – has been launched to showcase and share the best biodiversity and sustainability practices in land management.

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The Wildfell Centre for Environmental Recovery, a 296-acre site near Braintree, will be dedicated to helping landowners unlock the potential of their underutilised land with the potential to increase environmental and societal value for generations to come.

After buying the site for £2m, Ground Control – the UK’s leading landscape and maintenance contractor – will lead in its transformation into a research and training facility, providing guidance and hands-on learning opportunities in woodland creation, meadow and hedgerow restoration and biodiverse habitat restoration.

Clients and landowners will also have the opportunity to learn from evidence-based trials in sequestering carbon whilst increasing biodiversity and sustainability practices relevant to their landbank.

To mark the centre’s launch, sustainability leaders from organisations such as Anglian Water, Network Rail, Forestry England, JLL, Guinness, Fujitsu, Aviva and Network Rail attended the ‘Green Gains Live’ summit to discuss ways to better utilise land to limit global warming and support environmental recovery.

“The recent release of the IPCC report highlighted the urgent need to switch to a low-carbon footing,” says Ground Control director Kim Morrish. “A key part of this process is identifying and increasing the environmental value of land through habitat creation

LANDSCAPE & ENVIRONMENT and improvement to help reverse the decline in the UK’s natural environment.”

“The Wildfell Centre presents us with an exciting opportunity to highlight the benefits of rewilding degraded land. Showcasing the best practices for habitat creation, biodiversity net gain and carbon sequestration will allow public and private landowners to reimagine their landbanks and explore what they can do to maximise green gains and create a stainable legacy for the next generation.”

“Together with our £5 million Evergreen Fund, the Wildfell Centre supports our commitment as business as a force for social and environmental sustainability – within our industry and beyond.”

Land evaluation, project design and stakeholder engagement at the site has already begun with initial woodland, habitat creation and restoration projects commencing in 2022. The centre will operate with science-based, verifiable measures for carbon sequestration, habitat creation and environmental management.

“Landowners don’t have a roadmap showing them how to effectively use their land in key areas such as reaching net zero emission and boosting biodiversity,” said Chris Bawtree, Woodland Creation Lead at

Ground Control. “We want to help them identify and leverage under-utilised land to reverse the decline in our natural environment.”

“An important part of this process is recording and measuring changes in green gain. To help standardise the process, we’ve begun working on creating a single, independently verifiable biodiversity metric and certification program for land under management.”

MORE TORQUE, MORE BITE, MORE THROUGHPUT l l l l l l l l

Wide infeed chute Twin horizontal feed rollers 37hp B & S Vanguard petrol engine All steel bonnet Disc Blade longer life chipping technology Easy to maintain 3 year parts and labour warranty Tailored finance packages available

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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LANDSCAPING & DESIGN

Winning catwalk design The Garden of Exaggerated Beauty wins garden design competition sponsored by Provender Nurseries at Capel Manor College A garden based on the catwalk, stage Steven’s presentation was very positive, and dancefloor of a drag queen club with a strong concept that was put across has been selected as the winning enthusiastically and would provide a great design for Provender Nurseries' conceptual garden. annual Garden Design Competition The quality of the designs presented which is run conjunction with Capel this year were strong and some designs Manor College. were thought to be worthy of submitting to ‘The Garden of Exaggerated Beauty’ RHS flower shows. was presented and designed by Steven Liz Hughes of Provender Nurseries Davies a final year student of Level 3 says: ‘All of the students rose to the Plants and Planting Design course at challenge well in a year when plant the Enfield campus and is a celebration availability was at the most challenging I of drag queens to the LGBTQ culture. have ever known in 35 years of being in Steven’s design was thought to be the industry. Interestingly, no two designs Steven Davies original, dynamic and an excellent the same. representation of Steven’s aim to bolster “Steven’s design stood out and was the flamboyant characteristics of the existing planting. presented exceptionally well with many plants having a Strong structural elements have been incorporated starring role on the drag queen catwalk. throughout and much thought has been given to textures, I really look forward to seeing this design planted contrast, colour, and forms in the new plant selection. and complete and creating the first concept garden Unity across the garden is provided by the repeated use sponsored by Provender Nurseries at Capel Manor of mounds and contrasting strap like leaves.

Gardens.’

Existing plants in the garden have been Steven will also comprehensively and thoughtfully used within the new be awarded a planting design structure with an existing Cornus Venus cheque for £250.00 tree becoming the ‘embodiment of a performer on the and the garden will stage reaching out to the adoring crowd’ represented by be officially opened bold plantings of Astelia and Pittosporum balls. in April 2022 at The design competition is based on an existing show the Capel Manor garden at Capel Manor College with some of the existing College’s Spring plants and hard landscaping being retained, working to Fair. a brief set by lecturers and Provender Nurseries. Now in Steven has its tenth year, this is the first design where students had a background to work to a set budget for plants and to introduce new working for London plants to the Enfield campus gardens (not featured in boroughs as a other parts of the Capel Manor Gardens) selected from Project Team the Provender Nurseries website.

Leader and Project New plants to the Capel Manor College campus Manager for urban include Albizia julibrissin ‘Summer Chocolate’, Lonicera regeneration nitida ‘Scoop’ as topiary balls, Inkarho Rhododendrons schemes and and Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Bannow Bay’. commissioning The garden will be planted in October 2021 new landscaping Winning design by students and once planted will be used as an schemes for public educational resource for lecturers to introduce new plant spaces and parks. He now intends to set up a garden species and cultivars to students of garden design. design business focusing on small urban gardens that In total, thirteen designs were presented to the judging contribute to boosting the wildlife potential of the city. panel of Liz Hughes, Marketing Manager of Provender Provender Nurseries are keen supporters of working Nurseries, Nathalie Puget, Garden Design Curriculum with students in all aspects of horticulture with the Leader and Julie Dowbiggin, National Gardening Centre garden design competition being offered to students & Plant Sales Manager. The judges concluded that based at the College’s Regent’s Park campus in 2022.

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THE ONLY THING WE LACK IS EMISSIONS

The new 82V COMMERCIAL RANGE from Cramer The new 82V range offers true petrol rivalling performance, with industry leading power output from products including chainsaws, trimmers, and brushcutters.

Cramer offers the most comprehensive dedicated commercial cordless range in the market. From chainsaws and hedge trimmers, to telescopic pole pruners, twin bladed lawnmowers and sweepers. The range has everything for the commercial user, except emissions.

WIDE CHOICE, HIGH PERFORMANCE, LOW RUNNING COSTS.

To find your local stockist call 01793 333220 or visit www.cramertools.com to learn more

@georgebarrow

WORK VEHICLES

Victory for Hilux George Barrows conquers all in the new Toyota Hilux So, I thought my farmer friend would love to know all about the new bigger 2.8-litre engine revised Toyota Hilux that's come to market. The massive increase in power and its huge amounts of torque, would impress surely. Oh boy was I wrong!

As with most farmers, my friend is a pretty shrewd operator and he knows that his current Hilux is going to be good for a while longer, so why upgrade? And that is the problem with the Toyota Hilux – it's great at being reliable.

Of course, the measurement of greatness is relative.

Was Alexander the Great better than Genghis Khan at conquering the world? That depends on who you ask. But, with 18 million global sales, taking on more countries than both these historical figures, the Hilux can rightly claim leadership quality.

It can motor across scorching deserts and climb snowy peaks but like Genghis and Alexander it’s also become something of a relic. A single turbo engine with just 148hp is well below average in a world where modern conquerors want at least 200hp.

I persevered with my friend, explaining that the new 2.8-litre Hilux was one of the most powerful pick-ups on sale with its 201hp and 420Nm of torque. It offers a huge improvement over the noisy 2.4-litre engine in his current truck, I said. On start-up it does sound quite agricultural, but as the revs climb it settles down to a moo (he is a diary farmer so I hoped he'd appreciate that!). It is far more at home at 60mph than any Hilux he’ll have driven.

He still wasn’t impressed, but maybe you are?

The 2.4-litre engine is still available in the range, if you’re on a budget, but the new bigger engine is a no-brainer with just 1mpg more claimed in its fuel consumption. I’ll skate over the fact that 31.3mpg isn’t a great return in economy, but few working vehicles ever dazzle in this area. The Hilux is, though, one of the toughest workers out there and this new version is tougher still with improved suspension, different shock absorbers, adjusted leaf springs and new bushes that have firmed up the ride and improved its handling over particularly poor road surface.

Tested here is the Toyota Hilux Invincible with a sixspeed manual gearbox. It’s the second highest trim level and the more “cost effective” approach to getting in a nicely appointed Hilux at a shade under £29,000. Full luxury – the Invicible X – will set you back about another £2,000, while a six-speed automatic gearbox comes in at about £1,200 more. This model, however, I think is the sweet spot in the range and with a manual gearbox you have that versatility and connection to the road that can be lost with an automatic. The downside of the manual is that it does have a relatively long throw, which makes the changes seem like you’re mixing up a vat of something by your knee as you waggle the lever around. However, the driveline has been deftly tuned to cope with the significant uplift in power and torque.

The new engine hasn’t altered the Hilux’s brilliant off-road abilities, in fact it’s improved it with a wider torque band from 1,400rpm to 3,400rpm. The interior has also come in for something of an upgrade and while the range has got a little more confusing, as Invincible is only available with the 2.8-litre engine but Active and Icon trims are now exclusively available on the 2.4-litre model, it is a far smarter place to be.

Updates include an eight inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (that is actually also applied to Icon trim upwards) as well as front and rear parking sensors on both Invincible and Invincible X models. The touchscreen fits in more neatly with the centre console than the media units of previous generations. The uplift in equipment in the new Hilux better reflects the changing (more SUV-like) demands of the audience who expect gadgets and luxuries even on a working vehicle.

Regardless of whether you want the Hilux purely as a workhorse or as a dual purpose work/family wagon, the new 2.8-litre engine is an upgrade worth having. With power and comfort to match a Ford Ranger and offroading abilities that might even impress a farmer, the new engine is reason enough to modernise. Whether or not you want to might just depend on how great your need is, after all there’s always plenty of life left in an old Hilux.

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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HORTICULTURE

Balcony gardens championed at RHS Chelsea This year’s RHS Chelsea Flower (21-26 September, 2021) unveils the new Balcony and Container Gardens, which will provide inspiration and ideas for small space gardening.

Balconies have been a lifeline for thousands over the course of the pandemic and the new category, a first at this year’s historic autumn event, will promote the benefits of plants for our health and the environment.

Lush evergreens interspersed with rainbow colours and exotic touches feature along with herbs, chillies, fruit trees and other edibles. Drought-tolerant, pollinatorfriendly planting and seasonal favourites like berries, seed-heads and dahlias will also be on display.

A prominent theme of the category is how to turn a balcony into a calming space to escape and relax in using an abundance of plants and vegetation that will create a sense of being immersed in nature.

The ‘Green Sky Pocket Garden’ by James Smith is an oasis away from busy city life. Martha Krempel’s ‘Arcadia’ garden features subtropical planting and an idyllic painted backdrop and Michael Coley’s ‘Sky Sanctuary’ uses a colour scheme of soft pastels and greens.

Coley also uses recycled plastic as the garden’s main material element. Ideas to design your balcony sustainably and support wildlife feature throughout the designs.

The ‘Balcony of Blooms’ has been designed by Alexandra Noble who is known for using planting

Landform Balcony, Balcony Garden designed by Nicola Hale, sponsored by Landform Consultants Ltd. RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2021.

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The Stolen Soul Garden, Container Garden designed by Anna Dabrowska-Jaudi. RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2021.

schemes to support biodiversity. The garden will feature blooms for pollinators and culinary herbs and aims to show how small spaces can be productive, practical and enchanting.

Yellows and purples will dominate the colour scheme of ‘The Landform Balcony Garden’ designed by Nicola Hale as the two colours are most attractive to bees.

Nicola hopes visitors will be inspired to add habitat to the wildlife corridors in UK cities.

Another new category ‘Container Gardens’ is targeted at the increasing number of people choosing to use containers to maximise their outdoor space at home and for people who rent and want to take their gardens with them when they move whilst also providing inspiration for local councils looking to incorporate nature into public spaces.

The 4 by 3 metre spaces feature an array of container styles from repurposed IBC containers planted to resemble tiny forests to hand built ceramics, powdercoated metal and galvanised zinc containers full of lush, playful and exotic planting.

Helena Pettit, RHS Director of Gardens and Shows says: “We are really excited to introduce these two new garden categories to the show this year, following the huge resurgence in gardening during the pandemic. We want to show the thousands who visit the world’s greatest flower show and the millions who watch the BBC coverage at home just what you can do with next to no outdoor space.”

The ten gardens in these two new categories have been designed by first time RHS Chelsea Flower Show designers, those in the Container Garden category are recent garden design graduates and are being mentored throughout the process by multi-ward winning RHS Chelsea designer Paul Hervey-Brookes.

For more information on this year’s show visit www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea

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GROUNDSCARE AND TURF

Artistry meets mastery at A.F.C Bournemouth

New Dennis electric rotary mower impresses on the South Coast.

After a stringent search for a new rotary mower, Ian Lucas, Head of Grounds at A.F.C Bournemouth, has opted for the electric Dennis ES-34R. Ian may not have ended up following his original career path as a graphic desinger, but he has certianly retained his eye for detail in his work, especially in the purchasing of new equipment.

He certainly left no stone un-turned when it came to looking for new rotary mowers.

“We had demonstrations carried out for every single electric and petrol rotary mower you can think of,” he explains.

“With our previous rotary mowers, we had got to the point where they needed either replacing or repairing. It was quite common to get maintenance issues every two years with them and we wanted something that would last us longer.

“The club is looking at taking a greener approach, so we decided to narrow our search down to the electric rotaries. We spent a lot of time with all the various electric rotary mowers to make sure we made the right decision.

We looked at the design, build quality, battery life and the cut and collection. The performance when the grass

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is dewy or luscious was important for us because we cut nearly every other day on grass that is likely to be damp and I didn’t want issues with the chute clogging up.

“It was the new Dennis ES-34R which ticked these boxes and proved to be the best overall.”

The ES-34R is a 34" (860mm) battery powered twin blade rotary mower using the latest lithium-ion battery technology. It is ideal for fine turf mowing and cleaning up operations in stadia and training facilities. Utilising the contra rotating hardened steel blades and low chute ensures maximum collection performance.

While allowing ground staff to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired playing surface, the E-Series range will also help meet sustainability and environmental initiatives, minimise carbon footprint, emissions, running costs, HAV's and noise without any range anxiety.

Ian revealed that the club purchased two Dennis ES-34R’s and he explained how they are now playing an integral part in his maintenance programme at both the Vitality Stadium and the training ground.

“We’ll use them straight after a game to hoover up the debris and the beauty is that, because of the size

GROUNDSCARE AND TURF of the ES-34R’s, we now have two people doing this rather than four. This frees up the other two members of staff to do other jobs such as divoting. During the week we may well use them twice more on the stadium pitch before switching to the Dennis G860 cylinder mowers for matchday preparation.

“At the training ground we use the ES-34R’s a lot.

They work incredibly well because the cut on them is fantastic and very comparable with a cylinder mower.

Therefore, at the training ground we can use them to hoover, repair, cut and present all in one go. This is a huge time saver.

“The battery life is unbelievable on the ES-34R’s,” Ian continues. “One mower will do a whole pitch and you can still have at least 40% battery life left. Other mowers we trialled just couldn’t compete in this respect.”

The Dennis ES-34R is also fitted with a weatherproof colour LCD programmable display and keypad which operates the machine and will feed back information to the operator including ground speed, battery charge level, instructions and much more. This can easily be updated and customised to suit individual customer requirements – something which also continues to impress Ian.

“I love the computer side of it,” he says. “Most of the time we run it on the maximum revolution of the blade to get the maximum suction but sometimes we drop to half that and drop our speed levels for areas that we have recently seeded. This is important in areas such as goal mouths because we are constantly seeding there. By dropping the speed and power levels it means we can still cut those areas without hoovering the seed up. This of course was not possible with our old rotaries, so it has made a real difference.

“I also like how (through the LCD display) you can see how far the mower has travelled and how many hours it has been in operation.

“Another good feature is that you can pre-set the turning speed so when you get to the end of the pitch, you can simply press the button and it will automatically drop your speed, so you have more time to turn. This is great because you no longer have to rush or turn the mower off and back on again.

“These two Dennis ES-34R’s have certainly saved us a good amount of time and I would also confidently say that so far they have helped us to be more efficient.”

Perfect mix In the 12 years since the establishment of Greensward Sports Consultancy, Director Andy Boyce has relied on seed from DLF. Whether it’s bowls, cricket or winter sports, Andy swears by mixtures from both Masterline and Johnsons Sports Seed lines for germination, presentation and plant health.

Offering everything from regular maintenance contracts through to one-off renovations, Greensward delivers the full complement of services to a wide variety of sports facilities across the South West. “The Masterline range from DLF offers not just versatility, but quality that has been consistent over the years,” explains Andy, who heads up a team of seven. “This means that no matter the type of venue we’re working at, there’s a mixture or a combination of cultivars that’ll work.”

Andy’s go-to mixtures have been PM36 (Wicket) for cricket, croquet and grass tennis courts, and Masterline’s PM79 (Playing Field) for winter sports surfaces and cricket outfields. PM79 incorporates 50% Double 4Turf® tetraploid rye for stronger establishment, drought tolerance and exceptional disease resistance and overall performance during the winter months.

“A lot of the football pitches we’re working on are at grassroots level, some of which can be hosting three or four matches a week. This is where you’re relying on mixtures with high wear tolerance and seed that can germinate at colder temperatures. DLF’s tetraploid perennial ryegrasses have been a massive step forward in helping us to deliver that.

“The Masterline range tends to be at just the right price-point for a lot of our clients, but it’s great to also have the Johnson’s mixtures at our disposal if we think something from this range will be better suited, or sometimes to fulfil a customer request.”

Andy will consult with his DLF Regional Technical Manager Ian Barnett, whose advice he has trusted for many years. “Ian is always on hand with the knowledge we need and can answer any questions we may have on the various cultivars, mixtures and ranges.”

Pitch managed by Greensward Sports Consultancy

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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GROUNDSCARE AND TURF

Versatile Variseeder key to overseeding The versatile SISIS Variseeder 1300 has been key to overseeding without disruption according to Simon Marshall, Head Greenkeeper at the West Midlands Wishaw Golf Club.

Now the Head Greenkeeper, Simon as been at the club for 26 years and even though he admits that there always a lot of work to do, the course is progressing nicely. Looking to the the latest improvements needed, he is beginning to incorporate more bent grass into the greens and to do this is seeking out new equipment.

“Our aim is to try and get as much bent grass into the greens as possible and we thought that we could really do with a seeder,” he explains. “The first one we tried was a slit seeder but it just caused too much disruption.

It was at this point that our attentions turned to the SISIS Variseeder.

“I spoke to a few other greenkeepers from other courses, and they all recommended the Variseeder – it just seemed a no-brainer.”

The SISIS Variseeder is a versatile easy to use tractor mounted seeder with a variable seeding rate ideal for golf course maintenance and for use on lawns and amenity areas. It has a fast work rate, is low maintenance with few wearing parts and enables overseeding to be undertaken without taking ground out of play. Complete with a studded roller, the Variseeder prepares the seedbed by creating thousands of little “plant pots” to receive the seed without linear grooves that can disturb play.

“I like the fact that the Variseeder is light and very

The SISIS Variseeder has been key to overseeding at Wishaw Golf Club.

easy to use,” continues Simon. “We are quite a wet course in the winter and our tees experience a lot of wear. Therefore, the lighter the machine the better and the Variseeder is brilliant in that respect.

“Its versatility is its best feature. We overseed with it three times a year on the greens, overseed on the tees as much as we can, and the surrounds too. I also like how you can use it with different types of seed. If you can buy one machine that can do multiple jobs, then it is a bonus in my opinion.”

John Deere tees off at holiday park Overlooking the idyllic Brittas Bay on Ireland’s east coast, south of Dublin, Potters Point is an exclusive luxury mobile home park owned by the Stone family and was established in 1957. Guests that are lucky enough to stay there have free access to the nine-hole parkland golf course extending to 40 acres that was developed in 1987.

When the existing John Deere equipment fleet was due to be updated, Potters Point manager Irene Lacey called on dealer Dublin Grass Machinery to supply the range of new machines. These include an 8700A PrecisionCut fairway mower, 2653B PrecisionCut utility triplex mower, 2550E hybrid electric triplex greens mower, 220SL walkbehind greens mower, two 3039R compact tractors and

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three HPX 815E Gator utility vehicles.

“We bought our first John Deere machines in 1997 and have used the brand ever since,” says Irene. “These new models have replaced older equipment, as we want to keep the fleet as fresh and new as possible and equipped with the latest technology, and we are very pleased with them.

“There is great security in having new equipment and therefore no worries about breakdowns. The machines are now all working very efficiently both on the course and in the holiday park.”

Potters Point has plans to invest in additional John Deere equipment, particularly to replace a larger tractor that has been working faithfully at the resort since the

GROUNDSCARE AND TURF

Golf and turf grounds staff at Potters Point holiday and golf resort with their new fleet of John Deere equipment.

very first machines were ordered in 1997.

“Having enjoyed such a long relationship with Potters Point, we were naturally very pleased to be asked to supply them with this new machinery package,”

adds Robert Mitchell of Dublin Grass Machinery. “We appreciate their business and will continue to provide Irene and head greenkeeper Eamonn Delaney and his team with first class after-sales support.”

Aeration for London square garden The award-winning Earl’s Court Square Garden was originally laid out as part of the Edwardes Estate in the 1870s, and construction of the properties of Earl’s Court Square began. It was well-managed with professional gardeners until the Second World War, when the original cast-iron railings were removed and five emergency water tanks filled the southern half of the garden. Postwar it became much neglected and remained more like a building site until the mid-seventies when the present layout was designed. A children’s playground was added in 1980 and the mature London plane trees were pruned and maintained. The Earl’s Court Square Garden is one of the 37 Garden Squares in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea.

The garden is much used by residents and hosts neighbourhood social events which ultimately led to the ground becoming severely compacted and dried out in summer, while in winter it became heavily waterlogged. Aeration was done regularly, and the grass reseeded, but the problems remained.

On choosing to go to Terrain Aeration for help Katrina Quinton, Chairperson of the garden management sub-committee says: “We learned of the work done

by Terrain Aeration in Hyde Park after Winter Wonderland. We thought the

principles would apply here. They were scheduled to come to us in 2020, but a period of heavy rain and then Covid-19 intervened. The garden was a godsend for the community during lockdown, but the pooling was still a major problem.”

As soon as they were able, Terrain Aeration treated the area using their Terralift Tracker, which is designed for access in tight spaces. The Tracker hammers a hollow probe one metre into the soil, releasing a blast of compressed air to fracture the compaction and create interlinked fissures. They simultaneously injected dried seaweed into the fissures, and this expands and contracts with the moisture content in the ground. The probe is inserted in equal spacing on a grid pattern, to ensure the underground fracturing overlaps.

The resulting holes are top-filled with Lytag, lightweight aggregate, to provide a long-term aeration and ventilation shaft which will encourage air and water into the root zone. The result is a healthier soil structure; the compaction is relieved and a stronger root growth is promoted. The areas in the garden around the trees, which are greedy for water, were also treated to a depth of eighteen inches.

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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GROUNDSCARE AND TURF

Top-Brush leaves tip-top finish

At Windlesham Golf Club in Surrey, brushing is becoming a regular, year-round operation following the purchase of a Redexim Top-Brush in December 2020. Bought initially to aid the dispersal of worm casts, Assistant Course Manager Graeme Roberts has also discovered the benefits the Top-Brush can bring to course presentation and moisture removal – playing a core role in maintaining plant health.

Nestled in the Surrey countryside, Windlesham offers a championship parkland golf course shaped and maintained

by Course Manager Leigh Powell, Graeme and the team of nine, that provides a test to golfers of all abilities. “Because of the heavy soil profile of the course, and the ongoing reduction in chemicals, it became apparent that we needed to find a solution to the issues we were experiencing with worm casts over the autumn and winter months,” explains Graeme. “We had the Top-Brush in on demonstration for a week and were so impressed that we bought the demo unit from our dealer, Lister Wilder.”

“The Top-Brush gives us a sustainable way to stay on top of casts, and at 6m wide it is quick and effective at

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covering the fairways, leaving a high-quality finish while staying ahead of the golf.” When worm cast season died down, the Top-Brush was then utilised twice weekly for brushing ahead of the mowers – to remove dew and dry the plant out, improving the quality of cut and reducing the clumping of clippings. “The fact that the brushes can change rotational direction is really handy. We tend to run them in the opposite direction of travel to stand the plant up more effectively but if we’re working on smaller areas, we can simply change the brush direction as we move backwards and forwards.”

As well as changing brush direction, working depth can also be adjusted, making the Top-Brush a versatile tool for a light surface brush – suitable for clearing dew, incorporating topdressing material or removing clippings - or a deeper, more aggressive surface agitation to effectively rid large areas of organic matter. “We’ve been really pleased with how it has been removing dead material and debris from the sward, thereby helping to improve the plants growing environment without having to use more invasive and time-consuming techniques.”

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GROUNDSCARE AND TURF

A Mezmerising pitch for Mansfield sand

Mansfield Town FC Head Groundsman Michael Merriman has revealed how products from Mansfield Sand have signalled a ‘massive improvement’ to the pitch at the One Call Stadium.

Mansfield Town FC Head Groundsman Michael Merriman, also know as a Mez, has revealed how products from Mansfield Sand have signalled a ‘massive improvement’ to the pitch at the One Call Stadium.

Although a Liverpool fan, Mez also has a fond spot for Mansfield Town FC after working at the club for an incredible 24 years. Starting as a trainee community football coach at the club, he progressed to assistant groundsman but also adopted the duties of kitman and a self-proclaimed ‘bath filler’. His hard work and dedication to the club paid off in 2004 when he was promoted to the role of Head Groundsman.

He now oversees the stadium and the training ground and manages a grounds team which is very much a family affair – his two assistants are his son Scott and Lewis Sprigg – who is the son of previous Head Groundsman Rob Sprigg.

There has been both difficult and prosperous times in the club's recent history and it was perhaps during the more difficult times that Mez was particularly grateful of the help he received from Mansfield Sand.

“We’ve been working with Mansfield Sand for the entire time I have been at the club,” he explains. “Before the new chairman came in, we had some hard times when we didn’t have any money and Mansfield Sand really showed their support for us. It is things like that which will never be forgotten, and I’d like to say a huge thank you.”

Support aside, there are other reasons why the club has been relying on products from Mansfield Sand for so long, explains Mez. “We’ve been using MM40 (predominantly used in the construction and maintenance of a wide range of sports surfaces) for as long as I have been here. We used to

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use it every year during the May renovation and even when we weren’t able to turn the pitch over due to lack of funding, we would still put about 50 tonnes of the MM40 over the top, followed by a verti-drain to get a bit of drainage in the pitch.

“We’ll also very often follow up with a light coating of the MM40 in October – just to get us through winter; and I would say that over the past couple of years we have applied about 200 tonnes, if not more, of MM40 at the training ground.”

In 2017, Mez used a pure sand and polypropylene fibre reinforcement product that is particularly advantageous when grass cover has been reduced due to heavy usage and wear during the winter period. It is incorporated into an upper sand soil rootzone and consolidated to provide a stable divot-free environment.

“We applied 300 tonnes of the Fibresand mixed to a depth of 100mm and it transformed the way the pitch played,” he says. “It has signalled a massive improvement; we no longer get the sloppy surface and providing you do your renovations and prepare your pitch in the correct way then you won’t have a better surface.

Fibresand is a great product, and I would recommend it to everybody.”

In further praise Mez comments: “I work with Sharon Morris from Mansfield Sand who is an absolute diamond.

“There have often been times when I have put orders on her late and she always pulls it out the bag for me.

With Mansfield Sand it is not just a case of providing you with products and then off they go. Sharon will come in and take samples, makes sure it is at the right depth and ensure that the contractors applying it are doing a good job. The delivery drivers are also extremely helpful and courteous.

GROUNDSCARE & TURF

Grade changes for unleaded petrol

From this month, regular grade unleaded petrol (95 octane) in the UK is changing. To help in the Government’s target of reducing carbon emissions, ethanol content will increase to 10% (E10) from the 5% (E5) currently available on pump. While this is not an issue for modern petrol car engines designed to be operated with E10, users of garden and grounds machinery now face and increased risk of experiencing reliability issues attributable to the increased ethanol content.

Ethanol is a renewable bio-fuel that can be mixed with unleaded petrol in various grades and, when burnt, produces fewer emissions. It is anticipated that the switch to E10 will remove 750,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and, for those with modern machines designed to handle E10 fuel, few problems are expected during day-to-day operation. However, ethanol is a solvent that is damaging to plastic and rubber and is the ingredient often responsible for ‘gummy deposits’ left behind once the fuel has evaporated. The additional ethanol content therefore threatens to shorten the service life of certain system components and contribute towards the poor running of small power equipment.

In addition to issues with reliability, ethanol also

reduces the storage life of petrol, through the binding of moisture which then acidifies – in turn, leading to problems for owners who use their machinery infrequently or store them for long periods of time. Many manufacturers, including Stihl, Husqvarna and Honda recommend that fuels containing ethanol should be consumed within a 30day period in order to minimise the risks.

Being free from ethanol as well as benzene, sulphur and many other harmful substances, Aspen Alkylate petrol offers a clean alternative for both 2 and 4-stroke engines – improving the health and performance of your equipment, the working conditions for the operator and significantly reducing the harmful impact your machinery makes on the environment. The increase in purity compared to traditional pump petrol means Aspen can also be left in fuel tanks for many years without degrading.

While the introduction of more ethanol into regular petrol will reduce environmental emissions, and E5 petrol will remain available in the ‘super’ grade (97+ octane) at some larger filling stations, the remaining emissions and overall impact on operator and machinery health is still substantially more hazardous than those operating with Aspen fuel.

The Landscaper | Issue 256 | September 2021

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TURF & SPORTS PITCHESLondon

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ALPHA RANGE Professional tools and plug-in batteries for everyday use.

● Batteries from £320 + VAT ● Tools from £399 + VAT ● 4 year Battery Warranty ● IP54 Waterproof Rating ● 1hr 30 mins – 5 hours run time on a single charge

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Tel: 01295 680120 • email: sales@etesia.co.uk www.pellencuk.com ஶPellencUK

ஶ@PellencUK

ஶEtesiaUK

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