The Landscaper Magazine | May 2022 by The Landscaper

THE MAY 2022

THE NUMBER 1 MAGAZINE FOR CONTRACTORS, GARDEN AND TURF PROFESSIONALS

E INSTIPD OWER

Kate Gould

LATES ND TOOLS A RY E IN H C MA

The Chelsea gold designer on the challenges of creating garden retreats

Irrigation: Solutions for sports turf maintenance Plus: BTME review, BALI awards and product reviews

SCAN WITH YOUR SMARTPHONE TO READ ONLINE!

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Bluebells carpet woodlands and In her interview she reveals her inspiration for this the familiar hum of lawnmowers year’s entry, and details how she goes about her job fill the air in competition with managing client expectations as she works. birdsong. Only to be expected Finally, do scanCall the rest of the magazine for latest us on: as spring has sprung. And yet, updates on product news, details on how to enter weather patterns usually associated this year’s BALI awards and catch up with our with this time of year may not be so predictable. columnist Paula Warman who has just completed her As Greg Rhodes reports this month, greenkeepers first show garden at the Gardeners World Spring Fair are concerned about lack of rain - ‘the fairways in Beaulieu. desperately need some’, laments one as we look to the continued possibility of dry spells ahead. In his article QUALITY USED GROUNDCARE MACHINERY DEALERS Greg investigates how irrigation is fast becoming a major priority for grounds keepers across the country, as sports clubs invest heavily in irrigation systems in order to keep their ‘hallowed turf’ in tip top condition. Maggie Walsh, Editor (See page 20). maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk And on the same theme, Rainbird’s Peter Longman looks at how irrigation technology can improve water delivery systems, address water wastage and produce To subscribe to devices that can conserve water. (See page 18). The Landscaper Magazine Also this month, ahead of the RHS Chelsea Flower scan here Show (24- 28 May, 2022) we chat with Kate Gould, winner of five Chelsea golds. Kate is returning to the home of the iconic Chelsea pensioners this year to Next issue copy deadline: 20th May 2022 present her sanctuary garden, “Out of the Shadows”. To advertise please email us at landscaper@sheengate.co.uk

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The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

Join us at The RHS Ch elsea Flower Sho w 24-28 May 2022

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CONTENTS

News........................................................................... 9 BTME review........................................................... 16 Irrigation................................................................. 18

Circulation and subscriptions Maggie Walsh | maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk

Weed control.......................................................... 22

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.

Landscaper's Circle............................................... 24

Sheengate Publishing Ltd Unit A4, Kingsway Business Park Oldfield Road, Hampton TW12 2HD 0208 939 5600 www.sheengate.co.uk

RHS Chelsea Flower Show................................... 27 Feature: Kate Gould.............................................. 28

www.landscapermagazine.com Managing director Alex Whitney Publisher Con Crowley

Groundscare & Turf............................................... 32 Mowers.................................................................... 35

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 © 2022

Cover Story: The Greenfingers Charity Garden at RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2019, which was awarded Silver Gilt. Designed by Kate Gould. Picture credit: Helen Fickling.

KING FEEDERS UK SPECIALIST SHREDDING & COMPOSTING EQUIPMENT

www.ecogreencomposting.co.uk Tel: 01260 223273 The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

BALI_Awards baliawards

OPEN FOR ENTRIES Contractor / Group / Designer Categories Early Bird Discount Deadline: 4 May 2022 Final Deadline: 1 June 2022

Supplier Exceptional Service / Employer Excellence / International Categories Early Bird Discount Deadline: 1 June 2022 Final Deadline: 6 July 2022 The National Landscape Awards Ceremony will be held on Friday 2 December 2022 JW Marriott Grosvenor House, Park Lane, London

Visit baliawards.co.uk for entry criteria and to start your entry For general enquiries contact Emily Feeney Telephone: +44(0)24 7518 5613 or Email: emily.feeney@bali.org.uk HEADLINE SPONSOR

For sponsorship opportunities contact Diane McCulloch Telephone: +44(0)24 7518 5614 Email: diane.mcculloch@bali.org.uk

SPONSORED BY

Green-tree Topsoil

NEWS

Green-tech launches new SoluForm MSE Soil Filled Bagwork

Green-tech has added SoluForm MSE Soil Filled Bagwork to its extensive landscaping supplies portfolio. SoluForm MSE Soil Filled Bagwork are mechanically stabilised earth (MSE) geotextile bags used for the construction of earthworks such as riverbanks, slopes and walls. They are delivered prefilled with Green-tree topsoil which negates the need to hand fill the bags yourself and ensures a consistent and quality-controlled product. Purchasing and Product Development Manager Chris Swan comments: “I am delighted to add SoluForm MSE Soil Filled Bagwork to our product offering. It is a cost effective, environmentally safe and ecologicallybeneficial form of riverbank, slope, or wall construction. It’s a really simple, yet clever idea and is ideal for landscape contractors and designers who have riverbanks or slopes in their schemes because you don’t need any specialist machinery or skilled labour. The

bags are held together and prevented from moving by fixing spikes or plates between the rows of bags.” The geotextile bags, coupled with the Green-tree topsoil inside the bags allow for the establishment and promotion of vegetation growth, both on and inside the bagwork. This greens up the bagwork to improve its appearance, strengthens the structure and improves both riverbank habitat and biodiversity. Typically, vegetation is added by a technique called Hydroseeding For bagwork underwater, carbon-neutral concrete filled hand placed bagwork is used to form a secure and sound foundation or base onto which the soil filled bagwork can then be placed. Andrew Mountain from SoluForm adds: “We are proud to offer our new soil filled MSE bagwork product and look forward to supplying Green-tech with a range of competitively priced products, which is backed up with our technical expertise and extensive bagging capabilities.”

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

NEWS

Chance to enter the BALI National Landscape Awards Entries for the 46th National Landscape Awards, the largest landscape industry awards in Europe, are open. The National Landscape Awards provides accredited members of the British Association Landscape Industries the platform in which to showcase their business and celebrate achievements both within and outside of the industry. It engages teams to recognise the quality of their work, and offers a great learning experience and a chance to take feedback from industry peers. Ultimately it offers potential to enhance business enquiries. To enter register at bnla.awardsplatform.com and complete the online entry questions. Upload the digital submission pack and images through the online entry system. It is important to review the entry guidelines document to ensure everything is included within the submission pack. Submissions can be paid by credit/ debit card on the site or via invoice. To assist members further with the entry process members can view this year’s awards workshop, held with members of the judging panel through the awards website baliawards.co.uk where entrants can also view this year’s entry guidelines and the 33 categories available to enter. For further information please contact Events Project Manager, Emily Feeney at emily.feeney@bali.org.uk or call 07936 944258.

Entry deadlines and entry fees Accredited Contractor & Group/Accredited Designer Categories Early Bird Discount Deadline: 4 May 2022 – Fee £215.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £190.00 per entry) Final Deadline: 1 June 2022 Fee £250.00 (Additional Entries: £225.00 per entry) First Time Entrant: £145.00 per entry Supplier Exceptional Service/Employer Excellence Categories Early Bird Discount Deadline: 1 June 2022 - Fee £215.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £190.00 per entry) Final Deadline: 6 July 2022 - Fee £250.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £225.00 per entry) First Time Entrant: £145.00 per entry International Early Bird Discount Deadline: 1 June 2022 - Fee £315.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £290.00 per entry) Final Deadline: 6 July 2022 - Fee £350.00 per entry (Additional Entries: £325.00 per entry) First Time Entrant: £245.00 per entry

Previous award winners Idverde: 'Gloucester Gate Playground'

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NEWS

Refurbished tools power circular econony In a move to support the circular economy and reduce waste, omnichannel retailer, Screwfix, has enhanced its offering in refurbished power tools. Keeping products in use for longer forms a key part of the company’s sustainability strategy, and in January 2022, it began selling refurbished tools directly to customers. The initial trial has been hugely successful and the national retailer is aiming to refurbish and sell 100,000 items this year. “We know that our customers are already making sustainable choices and the success of this trial demonstrates the demand and importance in us minimising our environmental impact, while customers can enjoy the cost savings of buying refurbished tools,” says Screwfix CEO John Mewett. “The decision to sell refurbished products directly through the Screwfix website not only helps reduce waste, but also supports us in achieving our goal of refurbishing and reselling returned power tools. This is another step on our journey to reducing our environmental impact.”

Screwfix hit its ‘zero waste to landfill’ target in 2021, with 83% of the waste it generates recycled and turned into new materials and 17% incinerated for energy. Screwfix has also committed to reducing its carbon emissions by adopting low carbon energy sources, purchasing exclusively green electricity for its entire store network, and equipping 238 stores and counting with air source heat pumps (ASHPs).

Award-winning Aura Landscapes triumphs again Multi-award winning garden design and landscaping company, Aura Landscapes, has brought home two awards from the regional heats of the 2022 Marshalls Register Awards, run by hardscaping manufacturers, Marshalls Plc. Hampshire based Aura were awarded for the Best Driveway Transformation over 70m2 and Best Use of Ethically Sourced Fairstone, which brings their total number of awards to 30.

The awards celebrate the very best in hard landscaping, ranging from ‘Most Creative Use of Marshalls Products’ to the highly coveted ‘Best Engineering Achievement’. This year, the judges had to choose from hundreds of entries from register member companies based all over the UK. Mike Warman, co-owner of Aura Landscapes Ltd with Landscaper Magazine columnist Paula Warman, says: “We would like to thank Marshalls for the awards to be recognised for our creative designs and expertly built outdoor spaces is fantastic. As a local Southampton based landscaping company to achieve 30 awards in 12 years is quite an achievement. It is always a privilege to have our work recognised in the industry and by our clients who without whom we would not be the successful company we are today.” The 30 awards span both industry recognised awards for landscaping projects as well as business and customer service awards proving that not all landscapers are created equal. This month Aura Landscapes Garden are creating a show garden for Gardeners World Live Spring Show held at Beaulieu in The New Forest, from 29th April – 1st May 2022. The garden entitled ‘Over the Garden Gate’ and built inconjunction with The Association of Professional Landscapers will be shown and judged during the show.

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

NEWS

Vanmac recruits new field service technician Making his entrance at the recent BTME 2022, Mark Hundleby joins supplier of machinery for the turf grass industry, Vanmac Ltd, as nationwide field service technician. Mark's appointment has been driven by the extension of the partnership between Vanmac and Progressive Turf Equipment, together with the addition of other leading franchises including Eco Clipper and Brouwer Kesmac. Furthrmore, he is already well versed in the Trilo offering at Vanmac, joining the company on the back of more than 14 years with a dealership in the Trilo network. Here he was responsible for pre-delivery inspections, demonstrations and installations – together with all areas of field support and service.

“It’s an exciting time to be joining the team, during a period of such rapid growth,” explains Mark, who will be offering day-to-day support and parts assistance across the product portfolio. “I look forward to working closely alongside the sales team of Jeremy and James and providing customers with technical support throughout both the UK and Ireland.” With Mark on board, the UK will also shortly be seeing expansion in premises as Vanmac seek to move into new storage and distribution facilities. However, it’s not just the UK that has seen investment, with Vanmac BV announcing in December 2021 the opening of new dedicated headquarters in Amersfoort, The Netherlands. The 4200m2 unit is just a stone’s throw from existing premises on the Astronaut, which will now be focussed solely on the manufacture of the TRILO Smart Industries product range. The new premises is a major step forward in the development of the organisation – allowing teams to better serve the regional and global requirements of their customers, dealers and business partners.

A blooming jubilee Over 20 million seeds have been sown in the moat at the Tower of London to create a spectacular floral ‘Superbloom’ display to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee this summer. Opening to the public at the beginning of June, a vibrant field of flowers will encircle the tower creating a stunning spectacle of changing colours and patterns throughout the summer. The seeds have been carefully selected by Nigel Dunnett, Professor of Planting Design and Urban Horticulture at the University of Sheffield, who is the lead horticulturist on the project and has designed the planting scheme. Nigel has meticulously created a series of colour-themed seed mixes that will merge to produce beautiful, magical and dramatic impressionistic visual effects across the moat, whilst simultaneously delivering small-scale sparkle and detail. The seeds have been provided by Pictorial Meadows– part of the not-for-profit Green Estate CIC, social enterprise based in Sheffield. A team from Pictorial Meadows sowed the seeds in the moat, with Professor Dunnett supervising the process. To prepare for the seeds being sown, the moat was divided into 350 4 x 9m oblongs, into which 15 different seed mixes, containing 29 different species, were sown – like painting by numbers on a very large scale! Careful consideration has been given to each seed mix – with the species

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selected even taking into account the shadows cast by the mighty fortress in the moat. Sue France, Technical Director, Pictorial Meadows says: “Pictorial Meadows is proud to have been chosen as the seed supplier and installer for this project. Our specialist team worked at pace to prepare these stunning bespoke seed mixes in our Sheffield seed testing and mixing centre, and have sown them in record time. Our reputation for bold colour and fantastic reliability, alongside our 20 years of experience in creating stunning urban meadows, make us the trusted choice for organisations and individuals across the UK and beyond.”

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NEWS

Equity ambassodors appointed by landscaping association The British Association of Landscape Industries (BALI) has appointed four equity ambassadors to support them in their vision to bring about positive change and improve accessibility for all into the landscape industry. The ambassadors, all key industry voices, have been partnered with to aid in cutting across perceptions of what is required to work in the industry, and make a real difference in achieving a wider, more representative workforce. The four ambassadors spoke at the Association’s inaugural ‘access all areas’ inclusion and diversity panel discussion, held in London last December. The event, the first of its kind, was a thought-provoking discussion and the audience were able to hear the experiences of the panel and their careers in horticulture. The hosts were able to explore the perceived barriers faced by those considered not to be a part of the mainstream. The ambassadors are: •M anoj Malde, an award-winning garden designer, TV presenter, public speaker and RHS judge • Mark Lane TV gardening presenter, landscape designer and writer • Flo Headlam, a horticulturist, designer and presenter on BBC’s Gardeners’ World • Ashley Edwards, a graduate of The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and Head Gardener at Horatio’s Garden in London. BBC Radio 4 Gardener's Question Time Panelist and Chair of the London Gardens Network

The British Association of Landscape Industries is committed to seeing that everyone already in the industry as well as those thinking of coming into it is treated equally. The association is keen to ensure everyone from every background can be a part of the industry. No one should be excluded on the grounds of race, age, gender, disability or religion. Said Tessa Johnstone, Board Director, (diversity): “The last two years have seen the need for many to adapt to different careers. It is the right time to strike out with a strategy that sets out the range of roles in landscaping and the paths to progression via initiatives such as GoLandscape, highlighting the widening spectrum of people these roles can appeal to.” Tessa continued: “We need to embed a new paradigm and look at how we deliver our systems and processes to ensure an equitable future for landscaping, supporting those who are already part of this incredible industry. We will work towards attracting and retaining the most diverse talent and one that is more reflective of our society.” All four ambassadors have agreed to support the association in its endeavours. They are powerful and persuasive advocates who can support BALI in its determination to open up the industry, not just with insightful conversations, but realistic action.

Left: Manoj Malde Below left: Ashley Edwards (Credit: Hilary Stock) Right. Flo Headlam Below right. Mark Lane

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NEWS

STIHL GB remembers Eva Mayr-Stihl

Eva Mayr-Stihl, a businesswoman, philanthropist and dedicated entrepreneur passed away in April. Mayr-Stihl was instrumental in the success of STIHL and spent 33 years guiding the family-owned business as a member of its senior management team. Throughout her many years of service on the advisory board and the supervisory board, she kept close watch over the strategic direction of the company. Mayr-Stihl joined her father’s company in 1960, and with her educational background in business administration and linguistics, she took on responsibility for advertising and market research at the family-owned enterprise. Her expertise and drive to assume a leading role at the company quickly bore fruit when she and her three siblings were made limited partners in 1961. Two years later, her father gave her the power to represent the firm and enter into transactions on its behalf. After her father’s death in 1973, Mayr-Stihl became Deputy Chairwoman of the Board of Management, placing her in charge of finance and controlling starting in 1975. With a keen sense of responsibility toward society

and a sustainable world, the second mainstay in MayrStihl’s life was her work as a philanthropist. In 1986, she and her husband Robert Mayr established the Andreas Stihl Foundation, a nonprofit organisation that would be renamed the Eva Mayr-Stihl Foundation in 2004. The foundation was set up to finance projects in the fields of animal welfare, education, science, research, the arts, and culture. Today, the institution supports a variety of programs, including an endowed professorship for forest genetics at the University of Freiburg and a research group on recyclable material cycles. On 11th November 2009, Mayr-Stihl received the Konrad Adenauer Foundation’s Social Market Economy Award at St. Paul’s church in Frankfurt am Main. In 2011, she received the 1st Class Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany and became the first woman to receive the key to the city of Waiblingen. In 2019, MayrStihl was named an Honorary Senator of the University of Freiburg. The people of STIHL and their families are deeply saddened by the death of Mayr-Stihl.

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

BTME REVIEW

Protect greenkeepers is message sent home after BTME 2022

BTME the annual education conference and exhibition for greenkeepers opened its doors once again in late March, after having to postpone its usual January dates due to the Omicron variant of Covid. The Harrogate conference organised by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) saw 2,577 unique visitors attend the trade show. Although this represented a drop of around 40% on the 2020 event, the organisers says that over 70% of the visitors to the show were senior ‘decision makers’, such as course managers and head greenkeepers. Even thought numbers were down, the event was enjoyed by those in attendance with many exhibitors reporting valuable business done, as echoed by Jimmy Sandison Regional Golf Sales Manager at Rainbird who was there to introduce CIRRUSPRO, Rain Bird’s new Central Control platform. “Whilst the visitor numbers were perhaps lower than what we would usually expect for BTME the quality and value of your visits were high,” he said soon after the event. A common topic of discussion in the conference halls was the challenges currently facing the industry, as noted by BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton. “When the pandemic hit, the industry came together to form a ‘wartime cabinet’ that supported the game through extremis,” he says. “With fewer high-profile crises facing the sport, the emergency footing has abated. However, there remain a number of serious

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challenges, such as the supply chain issues for machinery and equipment and the cost and availability of water, fuel and raw materials such as fertilisers and sands. The labour crisis is another major issue that we simply must address to keep the sport healthy. “For many years the main focus of the game has been growing the number of people playing golf. The pandemic effectively gave us 2 million extra golfers in the UK and that has brought significant additional revenue into the game. It’s now time for clubs to focus on the importance of their workforce, without whom the sport would wither on the vine. And now as the UK golfing industry prepares itself for another bumper summer, Jim issued a rallying cry at BTME for the game to reinvest in golf club staff who make the game possible. “The success of this year’s Continue to Learn education programme at BTME has proved once again that BIGGA members continue to rise to the challenge that managing a golf course in the 21st Century brings. Today’s greenkeepers are better educated than ever before, overcoming the challenges they face each day to present stunning golf courses for their members to enjoy. Greenkeepers have held up their end of the bargain and now it is time for the golf industry to do the same,” he says. Among key areas of concern for Jim and the BIGGA team are the conditions that greenkeepers are expected

BTME REVIEW to work in. While some forward-thinking clubs now provided modern, clean and comfortable facilities for their greenkeeping teams, many still force their team to use outdated facilities that are no longer fit for purpose. Other significant areas of concern are salaries, particularly for entry level staff and those making their way through the ranks. Additionally, the incredibly high expectations placed upon greenkeepers to present golf courses despite the often limited resources made

available to them, which can cause significant stress and mental health problems. “Greenkeeping is a wonderful profession with many physical and mental health benefits and a wide range of career opportunities. It’s time for golf clubs to put their staff first, invest in their wellbeing and for a framework to be put in place that ensures every facility in the country treats their staff in a respectful and appropriate manner,” concludes Jim.

BIGGA awards 2022 The BIGGA and Campey Turf Care Systems Excellence in Communications Awards BTME 2022 recognise greenkeepers who have embraced communication as a vital tool available to the modern turf professional, helping to improve understanding and appreciation of the greenkeeping industry among the public or sharing ideas and best practice for the turf management community. Three award categories were up for grabs at this year’s BTME as follows: The Innovation and Thought Leadership Award for the most thought-provoking article for BIGGA’s membership journal, Greenkeeper International. Prestonfield Golf Club’s course manager Shaun Cunningham took home the award for his feature on outof-play areas and whether a golfer’s enjoyment of a golf course depended as much upon the wider environment and landscape as it did the playing surfaces. The New Media Award is given to a BIGGA member

who has embraced the possibilities of digital media to raise understanding of what goes on behind-thescenes at a golf course. This year John Rowbottom, greenkeeper at Woolley Park Golf Club in Barnsley, was awarded for keeping his followers amused with his entertaining look at life at this West Yorkshire golf club. One video of the greens team preparing a bunker was viewed over 23 million times. The Outreach Award which recognises those BIGGA members who have taken their message beyond the normal work boundaries. This can be to the local community, schools or environmental groups. This year’s winner is John Milne, head greenkeeper at Garmouth & Kingston Golf Club. John has presented in schools and at careers events to raise awareness of life at the golf club. He also invites students to the golf course to show how golf facilities can be beneficial for the natural environment.

Shaun Cunningham wins Innovation and Thought Leadership Award

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

IRRIGATION

Environmental considerations and solutions for irrigation Peter Longman, Rain Bird's Landscape Sales Manager for Northern and Central Europe, takes a look at irrigation technology that addresses environmental concerns and water conservation The availability of water has traditionally been taken for granted. Yet a global water crisis is already here according to the World Meteorological Organisation's State of Climate Services report in 2021. This underlined the need for improved water management, monitoring and the early warnings needed in face of growing waterrelated hazards and stress. Re-using water more effectively, improving water delivery systems to prevent wastage and increased desalination are some of the ways of addressing the problem. However, the conservation of water through efficient irrigation needs serious focus and is an approach that can be implemented immediately within different types of landscape. Since developing the original horizontal action impact drive sprinkler in the 1930s and in accordance with the company's guiding philosophy, The Intelligent Use of Water™, Rain Bird has designed products that promote water conservation and also save users time and money. Available irrigation technology includes products that can be used within commercial and residential landscapes, public green spaces, the sport and leisure industries as well as agriculture.

Devices to conserve water

Pressure regulating devices, check valves, drip irrigation, high efficiency nozzles, leak detection and auto-shut-off, weather based irrigation, soil moisture sensors, root watering systems, reclaimed water compatibility and energy saving VFD pump stations have features or add ons designed to conserve water. Products can also form part of an automated irrigation system embracing control and management systems. Such systems are often perceived as using more water than they save, but this is not the case. Professional specification, installation, maintenance and management will ensure that only the amount of water necessary is used to maintain the health of a landscape. Other factors that need to be considered when investing in an automatic irrigation system include establishment of separate zones for areas that require less water, water conservation targets and available budget. The system can then be customised to achieve these goals and thanks to the compatibility built into their own products by manufacturers, the installation can be built up over a period of time. Real time remote management of irrigation systems

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Peter Longman, Rainbird' sales manager for North and Central Europe

is possible with central control systems and this brings major benefits. Using controllers equipped with a communication cartridge allows a full suite of water management tools to be enabled. Multiple irrigation start times and independent programs can be set up which allow for precise run times based on irrigation zones. Users can manage several installations on the move from a wi-fi enabled smartphone or tablet as well as from a fixed PC. Reports can provide critical management information on irrigation times, total water usage and other conservation data.

Managing large projects

For larger projects, Rain Bird's IQ management platform is well established and IQ4 has the versatility to incorporate features such as Dryrun. Its visualisation capability will show in detail how the installation will operate minute-by-minute, including when individual sprinklers will start and stop, their sequence and water usage. It will display maximum flow rates in advance to check that the capacity of the system will not be exceeded any time. It will indicate when particular programs and stations will be functioning, what the flow rates will be for each one and the total water usage. The user will be able to determine in advance how long an entire cycle will take and make any adjustments for water savings and optimum irrigation scheduling with no water wastage.

IRRIGATION

Efficient irrigation

Flow indicating basket filter to monitor drip system performance

Many of the latest irrigation controllers feature in-built flow monitoring. This helps to save water by sending data to the controller for precise monitoring of water flow and accurate flow rates. Low/excess flow conditions or leaks can be detected and affected areas shut down. FloManager, included in many Rain Bird controllers, helps customers to allocate water based on need and availability. FloWatch uses flow sensors to monitor flow rates and together they ensure shrubs and plants have the water they need, when they need it and without waste. To promote water conservation for those on lower budgets or with less sophisticated installations, a simple low cost alternative to a digital flow meter is the Flow Indicating Basket Filter. It is designed for pressure regulation, filtration and flow measurement at the fraction of the cost of digital flow sensing. By checking the flow rate of an irrigation installation, monitoring performance over time, it will help to spot leaks, identify when the filter needs cleaning or if an emitter is clogged. This will prevent water, wastage and flooded areas and promote a healthier landscape. Water pressure can vary greatly between locations and high or fluctuating pressure can have a significant impact on the efficiency of an irrigation system. Water meters are engineered to measure water use with high accuracy levels at both low and high flow rates. If pressure is too high, it is important to install products equipped with pressure regulating devices, which can make significant water savings per minute per device. With a wi-fi module and accompanying App, internet based weather information can be received by certain smart controllers so that run times and irrigation schedules can be adjusted daily taking into account current and predicted weather conditions. Rainfall intensity can be monitored and compared to the soil infiltration rates to determine how much water reaches a plant's root zone. This prevents the irrigation of landscapes that do not need extra moisture.

Drip irrigation is recognised as one of the most efficient ways to water plants in a residential garden or commercial landscape. This low volume irrigation technology eliminates waste by delivering precise amounts of water slowly and evenly at or near a plant's roots. Its versatility continues to be extended with innovations that allow drip irrigation to be used in installations with elevation changes. XFS-CV Dripline features a heavy duty check valve to keep the dripline charged with water and prevents it water wastefully draining out at the bottom of the slope, avoiding puddling and preventing overwatering. Similarly, for vertical applications such as living walls, the Xeri Bug drip emitter is a self-piercing barb for use with Dripline. It also features a check valve which will snap shut, hold the water inside and prevent it draining out at the bottom. Sprinklers dominate landscaping irrigation, from small pop-up spray head sprinklers to large rotating versions for larger residential, commercial or agricultural use. Where a system has high water pressure and non-pressure regulating spray heads are in use, water can take the form of mist or fog leading to water waste and inconsistent watering. Innovations such as PRS Spray Heads use flow-optimiser technology with built-in pressure regulators to reduce excess pressure and manage nozzle water flow so that every drop of water is used efficiently. Such innovations in irrigation technology can make significant contributions to water conservation. Manufacturers aim to provide global leadership in the development of products that promote water conservation. Complementing these with everyday good housekeeping activities that save water, such as watering lawns and plants during the cooler parts of the day and monitoring system performance, will make a significant contribution to year round water savings.

Xeri-bug emittor - Ideal for watering the root zones of plants, trees, and container plants.

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

IRRIGATION

Irrigation pump primes turf and tree vitality Greg Rhodes investigates how operators are practising sustainable and economic irrigation management as the weather changes prove a challenge Grounds managers and homeowners alike are charting a worrying weather trend that sees prolonged wet and dry periods challenge the health and sustainability of sports, amenity and garden turf. Irrigation is fast becoming a key priority across the UK as specifiers justify major outlay on systems to help stave off the gloomy prospect of impoverished rootzones desperate for moisture. When the opportunity presents itself to revamp facilities therefore, owners and operators are sensing the sound practice of upgrading existing irrigation systems or installing new ones to futureproof provision. Sutton United FC's promotion to Football League Division 2 at the end of the 2021 campaign triggered a £550,000 pitchworks investment at the club’s south London ground to ensure it complied with FA regulations. Out went its 3G pitch and in came a hybrid turf replacement, with an irrigation system of an SRC Ranger control system and Toro sprinklers. The club lined up sports pitch specialist Agripower for a full install of the hybrid alternative in the 2019/20 to 2021/22 closed season. “Once the club had confirmation of its promotion to the Football League we started immediately, deploying a five-strong team full-time between the end of May and early August,” recalls Agripower director Jerry Anderson. The contractor installed a high-grade hybrid carpet over a base rootzone, infilling the carpet with a similar rootzone before seeding. The SRC Ranger control system has scheduling capacity for up to 100 stations and web-control, plus Toro Infinity sprinklers on the outside of the pitch and Toro B-Series sprinklers on the infill.

Irrigating Sutton United

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From left: Reesink’s Chris O'Dowd, Sutton United FC's vice chairman Adrian Barry and AgriPower director Jerry Anderson

“As well as a new pumphouse and pumps, a match pitch of this kind also requires a higher water flow rate,” Jerry explains, “which is why we installed wider diameter pipes and manual watering points for localised watering. It’s particularly useful for high-impact areas such as the goalmouth or when clubs like to slick-up the playing surface at half time. “We particularly like the fact that the Infinity sprinklers are top-serviceable, minimising disruption to the hybrid carpet,” he notes.

Technical know how

Like Sutton FC, many sports venues are currently planning irrigation systems costing millions, a financial commitment on this scale demands the technical knowhow to keep things running sweetly post-install. For those who run or are planning to purchase a Toro system, UK sole distributor Reesink delivers technical support, with trained engineers aiding installations, offering advice, training, site visits and detailed reports. Irrigation training or courses are “limited”, states Reesink's commercial and golf irrigation sales representative Peter Newton, so the company gives Toro customers direct access for advice, answers and support, “to ensure everyone is up to date with specifications and new products. We’ve had customers get in touch for the first time when their system is 15 years old and ask for advice”. “Proper education” on how to use and maintain irrigation systems such as Toro's is vital, he adds, to allow operators to optimise system capabilities and best utilise the technology at their fingertips.

IRRIGATION

Pouring sparkling water on to a tree specimen before measuring any change in release of water through the leaves.

Tap into top tips

At a time when many operators are bringing their irrigation systems out of winter hiberation, LWS Irrigation, principal UK distributor for manufacturer Rain Bird, offers maintenance top tips for helping ensure trouble-free life. First, replace damaged sprinkler units and upgrade old, inefficient and underperforming rotors. Monthly maintenance tasks include adjusting timer settings, checking and adjusting sprinkler springs, checking surface pipes for leaks and cleaning mainline filters, where installed. Every season, clean filters in old sprinkler heads, manually operate each valve and check signal cables for any damage. Also, unclog sprinkler heads and adjust them lie flush with ground level. The system will need draining before winter to prevent frost damage, then a spring service to get it up and running for the new season.

“Deep irrigation every three to five days is what the tree needs, rather an a sprinkling of surface water, which during hot periods can evaporate before it reaches roots.” But “you can kill a tree through kindness”, he cautions. “Finding the right balance is tricky. Surprisingly, 90% of tree roots are found in just the top 60m of soil. Deep watering systems allow operators to apply large volumes of water over a shorter period,” Jon adds. “Street trees are usually planted with a plastic tubular watering system to allow access deeper down but we have trialled terracotta options, which act as a wick to allow water to percolate into the root system.” Older trees on golf courses for example don't require irrigating usually, Jon notes, but that may well change in prolonged hot spells. “First signs of water shortage occur in the canopy and signal a need to start watering.” Given the advanced, zoned irrigation golf courses install, trees could be hooked up to the system and used as necessary, he says. “If you install irrigation on a mature tree, it will adapt to that level of moisture supplied. Should the system break, the tree suddenly will be deprived of a water supply lasting 30 or 40 years – in gardens for instance. “That raises the threat of canker disease, which is linked to drought particularly. Irrigation is in effect putting trees on life support. Roots move and pysically adapt to the new normal.” Installing irrigation under new golf greens can also place trees in peril, Jon continues. “It can place additional stress on nearby specimens by risking waterlogging,” he warns – another pointer to the fact that irrigation is a complex issue that needs careful planning. Tackling drought periods from another perspective, Jon explains a trial exploring ways to induce trees to expire less water, using carbonated water. “Sparkling water contains carbon dioxide, which triggers leaf stomata to close. Applying the liquid on intensely hot days, when trees are heat stressed could reduce the quantity of water they lose.”

Root and branch

Plenty of head greenkeepers and course managers were already fearing the worst as April's prolonged dry spell spilt into May. “Not a drop of rain anywhere and no sign of any,” bemoaned one beleaguered greenkeeper on social media. “The fairways desperately need some.” Turf is not their only trouble though, as many courses, parkland estates and sports sites include a spread of young, maturing and age-old trees that are starting to need some tender loving care as ground moisture levels shrink more regularly than in past times. “The first season is the key time for watering newlyplanted young trees through the establishment period to reduce replant stress and associated root loss,” says Dr Jon Banks, research lab manager at Bartlett Tree Experts.

Deep rather than surface irrigation is key for young trees

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

WEED CONTROL

Fast acting alternative to glyphosate Based on naturally occurring ingredients, Headland Amenity’s New-Way Weedspray provides a fast-acting alternative to glyphosate for broad-leaved weed and moss control. Ideal for use on hard surfaces and artificial sports pitches, its non-selective formulation provides total control against most soft-tissue it encounters, negating the need for separate applications when spraying for weeds and moss. The active ingredient in New-Way Weedspray (MAPP No. 15319) – acetic acid – is formulated from high food-grade product and is developed with a naturally occurring protein ingredient. This combination doubles the herbicidal properties of acetic acid compared to standard products. As one of only two foliar acting herbicides approved for the control of moss on hard ground in the UK, New-Way Weedspray can be used in a variety of amenity situations such as footpaths and pavements, parks, and in industrial areas such as railways and fence lines. In addition to hard surfaces, New-Way Weedspray can also be used to control moss on synthetic sports turf. Unlike many moss treatments, New-Way Weedspray will also control a range of weeds and grasses. While perennial weeds may require more than a single application for total control, annual weeds can usually be controlled in a single application - with browning of

It’s Your World.

foliage occurring within a few hours of treatment and death of the weed in one to two days depending on weather conditions. As there are no residual effects with the product in the soil, new sowing and planting may then be undertaken as soon as the weeds have died. Headland Amenity also have a comprehensive range of selective herbicides, offering the safe, efficient and targeted control of weeds in grassed areas.

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LANDSCAPER’S CIRCLE

It's showtime Paula Warman shares her journey on creating a show garden Landscapers and garden designers are fully into the show garden season. Whether the infamous RHS shows from Chelsea to Malvern or local events, up and down the country gardeners, designers and horticulturists will be trawling events for inspiration. This year is of particular interest to me as my landscaping and design business, Aura Landscapes, is designing and building our very first show for Gardeners World Spring Fair in Beaulieu. What do show gardens do for business? Show gardens are a great way to showcase a garden design and landscaping skills for potential clients to see. It is particularly fortunate if you can enter a show in your local area, as it can potentially offer the chance to attract quality clients within the local area. Showing is great for recognition. For us the show garden and design will be judged on the first day of the show, to win an award would be fantastic and like the icing of a very stressful cake. Taking part in local shows initally, it's great for getting experience in designing and building show gardens and if you want to build more as part of your company focus and strategy. How do you prepare for a show garden? Preparation tends to start many months prior to the show itself. In our case we were approached by the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) to design and build a last-minute show garden in association with them. Due to location being so close to us, we jumped at the opportunity and began preparing with only a few weeks before the event. The steps we took were: •L ook at the brief and design an exceptional garden space to fit •V isit the site and ask necessary questions from APL •D elegate jobs to our team – sourcing products, sponsorship and marketing •C reate a marketing plan for the

weeks leading up to the show and after the show utilising social media, emails and press releases • Send over all descriptions, sponsor logos and design description to the show organisers • Create banners for the site and leaflets detailing the garden to offer visitors on the day • Start building structures off-site ready to take to the build to save time • Ensure all staff were available to begin building from day one • Book in time to be present at the show during the whole event You can use these steps not just for show gardens but tradeshows as preparation is key as is the marketing opportunity available to you and your business. Creativity and commitment Building a show garden takes planning, creativity, commitment and patience, alongside the additional hours on top of the day job. But the opportunity it creates is well worth it. It is a joy to let creativity flow whilst fulfilling a brief. Plus, from a business perspective it can be a great boost for the business and your team. In summary, if you are thinking about getting involved in show gardens my top tips are planning, preparation and marketing! This is an opportunity to really shout about your company and get in front of a large pool of potential clients so as well as focussing on the garden make sure you factor in the marketing in the lead up to and during the show. Another tip is to look for sponsors who will help keep costs down. Finally, make sure you create space in the diary to breathe and take stock along the way. n If you want help with show garden marketing, planning and preparation then get in touch with The Landscaper’s Circle. My vision is to support and mentor as many landscapers, garden designers and horticultural businesses as possible, through membership of The Landscaper’s Circle. Left: Aura Landscapes Gardeners World Spring Fair in Beaulieu.

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 24

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RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

Spring back to RHS Chelsea 2022 Wildlife-friendly hawthorn looks to be among the horticultural stars of this year’s RHS Chelsea, which returns to the spring season after a two year absence

Gardens teeming with native plants that benefit wildlife will take centre stage at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022, sponsored for the first time by The Newt in Somerset, as the show makes its anticipated return to the spring season from 24 – 28 May 2022. Garden designers at the world’s most famous flower show are encouraging gardeners to embrace the wild and bring nature back, using native species rarely seen at RHS Chelsea to transform green spaces into wildlifefriendly havens. Hawthorn will feature prominently alongside other woodland trees and shrubs including hazel, crab apple, weeping willow and hornbeam. Visitors can expect to see swathes of green speckled with whites, creams and pinks throughout the show. Wild plants such as nettles, cow parsley, poppies and nectar-rich buttercups will add to the pastel colour palette and continue the wildlifefriendly, naturalistic theme. Highlighting the ecological benefits of a wilded landscape, first-time RHS Chelsea designers Lulu Urquhart and Adam Hunt are using native plants, including hawthorn and field maples, to demonstrate the dramatic transformation of land through beaver reintroductions. ‘The Meta Garden: Growing the Future’ takes its inspiration from the British countryside and will feature almost 3000 plants and trees including sweet chestnut. Designer Joe Perkins aims to highlight the connection between plants and fungi in our woodland ecosystems. Brothers Howard and Hugh Miller return for their second RHS Chelsea, designing a space with Alder Hey

Children’s Charity. With a colour scheme inspired by the whites, creams and pinks of apple blossom, a ‘hedge tunnel’, a meadow and an orchard will conjure a ‘dreamlike’ quality. The championing of biodiversity-rich spaces continues in the Sanctuary Gardens. For example, rich and vibrant green woodland planting and a immersive tree canopy will create a feeling of connectedness with nature in ‘A Garden Sanctuary by Hamptons’, while Kate Gould's garden 'Out of the Shadows' (see page 28) cleverly marrys modern lifestyle with inspirational outdoor spaces. Other themes include sustainability, climate change, the mental, physical and social benefits of gardens as well as a celebration of institutions such as the RNLI and the RAF. Says Helena Pettit, RHS Director of gardens and shows: “The show is jam-packed with stunning gardens and inspirational displays and with an abundance of wildlife-friendly planting, we won’t be the only ones buzzing!” For full details of the show and gardens visit: www.landscapermagazine.com

Full details for RHS Chelsea 2022 here

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

FEATURE

Out of the Shadows Chelsea gold medal winner Kate Gould tells Maggie Walsh how she is marrying modern lifestyle with beautiful designs to create safe garden retreats in the wake of the pandemic

Out of the Shadows, RHS Chelsea 2022. Credit: Kate Gould

Post-pandemic gardens need to work harder than ever. Landscape and garden designers are being asked by clients to not only provide a pretty garden to look out upon, but an outdoor extension to their homes where they can relax, exercise, entertain and eat. A haven should they ever find themselves in another lockdown scenario. It's a trend that award winning garden designer Kate Gould has noticed over the past couple of years and which has inspired her sanctuary garden Out of the Shadows, which she will reveal to all at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show in May. It is a lesson in how garden design can seamlessly incorporate modern lifestyle demands into a beautiful and inspirational garden space to be enjoyed year-round. “As we (hopefully) come out of the pandemic, people have certainly become more mindful about creating safe spaces they can hunker down in. They are thinking outside the box in terms of what they want their gardens

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to deliver when it comes to outdoor living, and they are often not sure how to achieve this within a traditional garden model,” says Kate. Out of the Shadows’ is a small, contemporary garden which features a state-of-the-art Jacuzzi swim spa for exercising, spaces for seating and relaxation, climbing bars, and a yoga/meditation space all elegantly situated amongst dramatic and exotic, tropical-style planting. The idea of a functional piece of gym/relaxation equipment such as a large swim spa in a garden might seem at odds with a show garden aesthetic, but Kate has cleverly recessed it within the gardens’ natural wood decking and strategically placed perforated brickwork to let light and shadow break across the water. There is also a social space elegantly diliniated through carefully placed rock seats and a central fire pit, shower and exercise areas. Privacy is created through the use of low hedging, bamboo and decorative brickwork. “With Out of the Shadows I want to show people that if they want a swim spa for example, or a space to do yoga, they don’t need to choose between having that and a beautiful garden. It doesn’t need to be an either/ or choice,” suggests Kate. “Have a swim spa, but make it chic. It is as much

FEATURE about coming out of the shadow of the pandemic – and all the ways that has elevated the importance of our gardens – as it is about coming out of quite narrow, traditional views of what a garden needs to be. It can work on so many different levels and clever design choices can marry up lifestyle needs.”

Lifelong career

With more than 20 years in the business, Kate was encouraged by her parents to garden from a young age. What started out as simple hobby grew into a successful lifelong career, and she has become one of the most sought after garden designers in London - no doubt helped by her five Chelsea gold medals. When Kate is not working on her show gardens - “I was grateful for the enforced break due to covid,” she quietly admits, she is busy creating gardens across the capital and home counties. She loves her London-based jobs as she is a passionate believer in greening the city, and relishes adapting her designs, whether in the town or country, to our changing climate. “There are plants now that we now use that perhaps we couldn’t ten or 15 years ago because the climate is warming,” marvels Kate. This summer Kate will be taking in the view of much of London’s skyline as her clients make requests for roof top gardens - another national trend thanks to the pandemic. “With lockdown still looming in our minds people are willing to spend that bit more money to make sure they have an open space they can go into if we are restricted again,” she observes, noting that some home owners are prepared to pay that bit extra to make sure they have the correct plans in place to construct a terrace on what was once a flat roof.

Client’s vision

Managing a client’s vision is also a daily task for Kate, especially when they walk out of a show like Chelsea

Kate wins gold for her New West End Garden, RHS Chelsea 2018. Credit: Helen Fickling Photography

Kate Gould working on a 2018 show garden. Credit: Helen Fickling Photography

and expect a show garden creation to be easily mirrored in their back yard. Garden visitors come away with all that is lovely from the show – the blue, purple and white hues associated with spring says Kate. An able gardener, she continues will be able to replicate certain planting schemes from the show, but many clients need their expectations managed. “I try to produce schemes that work all year around for clients, not just snap shots from a time frame. I have to explain to them that just because they have seen a wonderful hydrangea blooming in the flower shop in mid December (grown in a hot house), they are not going to replicate that in their garden. Instead they will have to put up with a stick like plant until they flower in July or August.” It is the same for all garden designers - educating a client so they understand plants and what to expect from them. Just like children and animals they - the plants - are not always going to behave. And, all the better if clients take the advice in looking after their newly created plot. It can be sole destroying says Kate for a designer to see a garden ruined a year later by an unruly dog or lack of maintenance. “You can’t get prissy over what you think is your creation because I do believe the garden is the clients,” she states. But I know that there will have been blood sweat and tears in a garden creation, so when you go back and it’s less than perfect I always feel bad for the guys who have broken their backs to make it. According to Kate garden maintenance is essential and she will encourage clients to take on a gardener. “It is like an insurance policy,” she explains. “Plants are not cushions, they die if you don’t look after them. It is like horticultural murder!” ‘Cherish the space you have,” says Kate. “You are the custodian of that green space until someone takes it over from you.” A message that will be delivered to visitors to Kate’s Chelsea sanctuary garden this year.

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW

MEDITE SMARTPLY partners with award winning designer Sarah Eberle MEDITE SMARTPLY will be on show at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for the first time this May when it joins forces with decorated designer, Sarah Eberle Following on from its involvement at the COP26 UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, MEDITE SMARTPLY has set its sights on RHS Chelsea Flower Show to showcase its innovative product range and commitment to sustainable building. Working with award-winning landscape architect and innovative garden designer Sarah Eberle, it also aims to highlight the possibilities of engineered wood panels at the home of the world’s best garden design. The Chelsea Flower show is a first for MEDITE SMARTPLY.

Award winning designer Sarah Eberle The garden – Building the Future – will be themed around sustainability and the multiple applications and versatility of MEDITE SMARTPLY products. As a responsible manufacturer of wood construction panels, the company is committed to manufacturing products that contribute to healthier buildings that are carbon negative to factory gate, helping towards net zero carbon 2030 and 2050 goals. “I am delighted to be working with MEDITE SMARTPLY and to be able to use its products in my design for the new garden,” says Sarah. “I am over the moon to work with such an innovative company who manufacture exceptional wood-based panels while maintaining outstanding sustainability credentials.” “We’re thrilled to be involved with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022, and to partner with such a prestigious designer is truly an honour,” comments Chris King, Managing Director - Commercial at MEDITE SMARTPLY.

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“Although our products have long been used at events as renowned as the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, we wanted to use this opportunity to show the world just how far wood panel products have come in terms of innovation and sustainability. “Not only can MEDITE SMARTPLY panel products help you to achieve the most stringent sustainability criteria, but they can do so in a way that does not limit the creativity and inspiration of the world’s best designers.” The centrepiece of the garden, which is inspired by natural vertical rock strata, will be created out of MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME (MTX), a remarkable, lightweight panel guaranteed up to 50 years above ground and 25 years in ground. It is especially beneficial in environments where humidity and varying weather are usually concerns. The structure will demonstrate MTX throughout its life cycle and show the versatility of wood panels. Further products such as SMARTPLY STRONGDECK will feature in the garden. This high-performance engineered wood, tongue and groove OSB/4 panel, is suitable for the most demanding structural applications such as flooring. Additionally, the garden will be secured with SMARTPLY SITEPROTECT PLUS, a pre-primed structural OSB/3 site hoarding panel ideal for securing sites or promoting brand messages to the wider public. To demonstrate the products’ limitless design capabilities, MEDITE SMARTPLY have recently launched an online MDF community site meditemakesitreal.com which invites MDF enthusiasts to share work, gain inspiration and even win prizes that will enable the user to build bigger and better with MDF.

Plans for Sarah Eberle's show garden 2022 'Building the Future'

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GROUNDSCARE & TURF

Winning wildflower mixture A bespoke wildflower mixture consisting of native Cornish flowers has helped Newquay Golf Club scoop Syngenta’s annual Operation Pollinator Award. The aim of the Golf Environment Awards (GEAs) is to recognise, reward and promote outstanding individuals and golf courses, no matter how big or small, for the time and effort they have put into protecting and preserving their unique surroundings. The Awards consist of four categories: Environmental Golf Course of the Year, Conservation Greenkeeper Award, Outstanding Environmental Project of the Year, and the Operation Pollinator Award. “I was hesitant at first because I saw what some of the other amazing courses had achieved and I wasn’t sure if we stood a chance,” says Dan Kendle, Course Manager at Newquay Golf Club. “However, a few people encouraged me to enter, and we were selected in the Operation Pollinator category. The Operation Pollinator Award celebrates golf clubs that consistently deliver outstanding ecological habitat creation and management to benefit pollinating insects. Amongst other ecological activities on the course, Dan also impressed the judges by introducing native wildflower areas. “I first spoke to David Bevan at Agrovista Amenity to explain what I wanted to achieve, and it was at this point he brought in Matt Gresty (MM and Designer

Sales and Brand Manager for DLF UK). I explained that I didn’t want just a standard mix of wildflowers and that I wanted flowers that are native to my site. Matt went away and put together a wonderful mix and that was one of the main reasons we won the award.” Appropriately named the Newquay Wildflowers, the mixture contained 24 flower species including Vipers Bugloss, Yellow Rattle, Common Toadflax, Dark Mullein plus five various grass species. Dan and his team created the first area in autumn 2020, and then started rolling it out to other areas on the course. Not only have they provided a rich, colourful, and diverse ecological habitat but they have also wowed the public and members by offering great aesthetic value. “We’ve seen a huge increase in the numbers of different butterflies and bumblebees, and we have also been getting rare species of birds including the Cornish Chuff. I record everything on the course, and we’ve had eight species that are on the red list. It really is wonderful to see the course so alive with wildlife. Dan who plans on further extending the wildflower areas adds: “Awards such as these are incredibly important because there is still this stigma that golf courses are sterile environments pumped full of chemicals, but that could not be further from the truth. Look around the country and you can see what golf courses are doing now - it’s amazing. I’m delighted to be a part of it.”

A bespoke wildflower mixture from MM Sports Seed helps Newquay Golf Club scoop Syngenta’s annual Operation Pollinator award.

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GROUNDSCARE & TURF

Verticollector cleans up GKB Machines has launched a brand-new addition to their natural turf maintenance range, in the form of the Verticollector. Revealed at BTME 2022, it is based on the principles of their VStrong scarifier and promises effective organic matter removal and clean collection of the extracted material in a single pass. The Verticollector is available in two working widths – 1.2m and 1.6m – and is equipped with precisionengineered steel blades, spaced at 25, 50, 75 or 100mm, for the accurate removal of thatch, surface debris and lateral growth down to depths of 40mm. The wind paddles, fitted to GKB’s unique CombiRotor ®, generate enough suction to lift the extracted material up and into the new 400L collector, which can then be hydraulically lifted and conveniently emptied at the press of a button. Commenting on its introduction, UK Operations Manager Tom Shinkins says: “We pride ourselves on listening to the end users and coming up with solutions to everyday problems. The new Verticollector will be ideal for greenkeepers, combining OM removal and

debris collection in one pass to make the task more efficient and less labour intensive. The initial reaction we’ve had to the VC120 on show at BTME has been very positive and we’re very much looking forward to taking the machine out and putting it through its paces over the coming months.”

Quick compaction relief at Phoenix Golf Club thanks to Redexim Verti-Quake® Tackling compaction on previous untouched ground, a Redexim Verti-Quake ® 2516 has dramatically improved the downward movement of moisture at Rotherham’s Phoenix Golf Club. Constructed on clay-based land, the 65 hectares that make up the complex includes cricket facilities, a bowling green and nine football pitches, as well as the 18-hole parkland golf course. The Verti-Quake ® was delivered to the club in the late summer of 2021 and complemented the aeration work conducted with their existing Redexim VertiDrain®. Multi-sport complex manager Mark Smith cited outstanding results on some of the area's historically waterlogged areas. With just a team of five working on maintenance, Mark found that operations such as aeration had been limited by time and resources. “The Verti-Drain® has

traditionally been utilised on the greens but not on larger, open areas because of staffing levels,” he explains. “We’d seen a contractor utilising a linear aerator on our football pitch and decided something like that could bring benefit to areas, such as the fairways, on the golf course.” After exploring the options, Mark opted for the Redexim Verti-Quake ® 2516 – offering a 1.6m working width and effective compaction relief down to 250mm. “As soon as it was delivered by our local dealer Cheshire Turf, we were out on some of the historically challenging areas and the results spoke for themselves. We went into the winter, and emerged the other side, so much drier than we ever have before.” “Considering a lot of the areas we used it on had never been aerated previously, the Verti-Quake® broke straight through the compaction and helped to move the water down and towards the water courses – providing a much more cost-effective alternative to installing drainage.” After making such a strong first impression, Mark is now looking forward to the further improvements the VertiQuake® can deliver. “If it’s open land, and it’s likely to get wet, we’re going to get the Verti-Quake® on it!” That mantra extends to work on other areas of the complex, including the football pitch, reducing the reliance on external contractors. “We’ll get the Verti-Quake® out during the end of season renovations, giving us important compaction relief and getting the ground repaired and recovered in time for the busy playing season.”

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

GROUNDSCARE & TURF

Fertilizer that gives cosmetic appeal

Jordans Sports Ground Solutions has reported excellent results from using Compo Expert’s Ferro Top Provider of sports turf solutions across the south east, Jordans Sports Ground Solutions has reported excellent results from using Compo Expert’s Ferro Top specialty fertiliser, after applying it at several top-class sports venues. Owner Ian Jordan is careful to choose the right right turf products and equipment within budget for his clients. Last year, with a harsh winter approaching he searched for an iron-based product that would harden the sward and offer some colour through the cold season. “I came across Ferro Top on the Agrovista Amenity website and spoke in more detail about the product with Andrew Norman (Amenity Specialist),' he explains. “We are gradually increasing the number of products we are using from Agrovista Amenity and Andrew gave his opinion on Ferro Top. Based on his feedback, I decided to give it a go.” Ferro Top has become a popular choice amongst turf managers. Available via exclusive distributor of Compo Expert turf products, Agrovista Amenity, the iron specialty fertiliser has high levels of potash and magnesium as well as manganese to promote quality, resistance, and colour. The fine granulation ensures perfect sward penetration.

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Ferro Top also ensures quick greening without a flush of growth, displaces moss, and protects against new settlements, which is particularly important in winter to spring. Ian decided to use Ferro Top on a range of sports turf surfaces he works on, including the stadium pitches at Gillingham FC, Dartford FC, Ebbsfleet FC and on three croquet lawns, two tennis courts and a cricket square at Dulwich Sports Club. Ferro Top was applied to all the sites at the start of December and Ian revealed that he plans on using it more extensively going forward. “Cosmetic appeal at this sort of level is key and approximately 7 to 10 days after we applied it, we thought wow! The grass went whoosh and the colour it produced was fantastic. “What I also like about this product is that it seems to kick back into life when the turf has been cut – it just seems to really bring the colour out each time. We have all been very impressed with Ferro Top. “Now we know its capabilities we will certainly be using it more,” continued Ian. “I think next winter we will look to apply it, depending on weather, in November and go with a second application in January.”

MOWERS

Mower proves versatile Jay Berkhauer, head groundsman for Dartford FC, says that the Dennis G860 cylinder mower is hugely versatile and offers an unrivalled finish. Jay, who is employed by Jordans Sports Ground Solutions, has been working at Dartford FC’s Princes Park Stadium for three seasons. As an experienced grounds manager, Jay has worked on many sports surfaces including football, rugby and cricket. “I first started using Dennis G860’s when I worked at Crystal Palace FC – and I absolutely love them,” says Jay. “From all the mowers I have used in my career I am of the opinion that you just can’t get a better finish than a Dennis.” When Jay started working at Jordans Sports Grounds Solutions, he was glad to have a Dennis G860 to use at Dartford FC. Relied upon at world class stadia and major tournaments, it is one of the most renowned cylinder mowers in grounds management. Lightweight at just 166kg it is incredibly easy to manoeuvre and comfortable to operate. The handlebar console houses the controls for the throttle, parking brake, roller drive and cutting cylinder drive. The mower features a large diameter front roller with an adjustable scraper which has been designed for a precise height of cut control. It also features an interchangeable cassette system to assist with a wide range of tasks such as including scarifying, verticutting, brushing, spiking, and slitting. This versatility is one of the G860’s best features according to Jay.

“We have the verticutting cassette, the brush and the cutting cylinder,” he explains. “In the summer months when the grass needs thinning out, I’ll use the verticutting cassette. I’ll also use it during renovations, just to give it a thorough clean and to remove any thatch. “In winter, I’ll use the brush cassette after a game to give the pitch a tidy-up and to remove any debris. If I used a small rotary mower to do this after a game, I would be doing it all night, so the brush has certainly helped me to save time. “Then of course, we have the cutting cylinder which provides an excellent finish every time. “The G860 is a 3-in-1 for me and therefore works out to be very cost-effective.”

INFINICUT® extends fixed head range Following in the footsteps of the Mk6 SM34 Rotary Mower and floating head cylinder collection, INFINICUT® have now extended the Mk6 features and mantra across their fixed head range. Visitors to BTME were amongst the first to see the 2022 model FX range, which incorporates new features including CAN cylinder models. The electrical architecture has been completely overhauled, including updates to the battery, motors, controllers, contactor and VCM to deliver the robustness and reliability demanded by today’s turf professionals. Incorporating CAN bus protocol into the design facilitates the communication logic, making the INFINICUT® the world’s first professional mower with Bluetooth connectivity – enabling wireless interfacing and adjustments to be made via the InfiniApp, available for smart devices. While the electrical operation and other features have been refined, the leading-edge cut quality now synonymous with the INFINICUT® mower, remains.

The in-house manufactured SMARTCut™ cutting reels are available in 7, 11 and 14 blade set-ups, with an optional contra-rotating groomer attachment available for alleviating grain and turf density problems. As with the floating head variant, the grass bucket is mounted on the traction unit providing a more consistent cut height and ensures the mower remains optimally balanced throughout operation and during end-of-line turning. Available in four cutting widths, there’s a Mk6 FX machine suited to all types of surface, from bowling and golf greens to winter sports pitches. They are also both cool and warm season grass compatible. Alongside the renowned SMARTCut™ reel, a full range of compatible maintenance cassettes are available from the TMSystem™ collection – unlocking the full potential of your INFINICUT® pedestrian mower or mainstream models of lightweight fairway mower into a system for complete turf refinement.

The Landscaper | Issue 262 | May 2022

MOWERS

Kubota best for showground With 200 acres of grass to care for and a packed programme of events ranging from Truckfest to the International Antiques Fair and the Festival of Motorcycling, East of England Arena and Events Centre needs reliable, productive machinery. After a round of demonstrations aimed at updating their fleet, the grounds team there has chosen a Kubota M5112 tractor, RTV-X1110 utility vehicle and ZD1211 zero turn mower, supplied by dealer Irelands Farm Machinery. The main tasks for the 110hp M5112 are mowing the large expanses of grass used for exhibition space and parking, plus general haulage, head of maintenance Dean Wyers explains. “We have also purchased a 4.6m Spearhead Multicut mower from Irelands, and the combination gives us the output we need to keep the extensive grass areas tidy. The Kubota tractor handles the mower really well, and it’s very comfortable to drive, with great visibility.” Next on the shopping list was a ride-on mower, essential for cutting tighter areas. “We had a front mower before but were interested in a zero turn to work around the many lamp posts, stand pipes and electricity boxes on the site. The ZD1211 is a huge improvement, so much quicker, but with a very good quality cut,” he comments. “It’s also durable enough to cope with the debris that can be hidden in the grass after an event and very easy to check and clean with its flip up deck.”

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To get around the huge site and move tools and materials, the 24hp RTV-X 1110 has proved a great choice. “It’s very good to drive and comfortable due to its all-round suspension – I’ve already clocked up some miles in it, and it’s proving economical on fuel. We do a lot of towing for which it gives plenty of power, and it can also be fitted with a specialist sprayer which we find very useful for weed control around fencelines,” suggests Dean. The RTV has a hydraulic tipping bed as standard, handy for moving materials such as soil for ground repairs in the show season. The East of England Arena and Events Centre has specified a full cab with heater, for protection from the elements. “We demonstrated one with a ROPS (roll over protective structure), but it is a very open site so we do appreciate the cab,” he comments. “It’s very roomy and easy to access.” An onsite workshop means that most of the machinery maintenance is kept in-house, and Dean praises the ease of service access on all three machines, while Irelands are close at hand for back-up and parts should they be needed. “The Kubota machines are robust and well made,” he says. “Reliability really is key for us as we can often have just two days turnaround to get the site looking pristine for the next event, and we’re confident that they will provide this.”

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The Landscaper Magazine | May 2022

Articles inside

News

Weed control

Mowers

RHS Chelsea Flower Show

Irrigation

Groundscare & Turf

BTME review

Landscaper's Circle