The Landscaper MAGAZINE January | February 2023

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Enclean® is a sustainable, plant-origin biocide that delivers curative algaecidal effects across a wide range of porous and non-porous hard surfaces. It can be used all-year-round with long-lasting results, making it a cost-effective, go-to degreener.

Suitable for:

• Walkways and steps

• Buildings, walls and roofs*

• Artificial grass surfaces

• Signage

• Fencing, decking and furniture

• Play equipment

• Statues and monuments

*Except thatched

So, it’s 2023. Time to get business into second gear. And what a better place to achieve that than at a trade show. While there was a hiatus for the exhibition industry during the peak of the pandemic, there was a gradual return to in person events throughout 2022, with greater expectations and visitor numbers this year.

The annual BTME at Harrogate for those working in greenkeeping and turf management has already kicked off the year of events, with reports of a record 4,930 preregistered attendees, that included the 900 registrations from exhibitors themselves. So a good start then. Fear not if you missed out on this event, as there are still plenty to come across the year. And in the meantime our feature on page 20 shines the light of some of our industry shows and why it’s worth the effort to visit at least one.

Elsewhere in this issue, Greg Rhodes speaks with Phil Tremayne of the Association of Professional Landscapers (APL) on how to navigate the different regulations that comes with certain aspects of a landscaper’s daily work. Phil’s aim is to raise awareness amongst his APL members and all those working in industry to be familiar with latest measures set by trade standards and others that will help to deliver better quality work, especially in domestic projects. Ultimately, he believes this will be achieved through quality staff training which will

stimulate quality and up-skilling. Read full report on page 16.

And on the subject of skills, take a look at some artistic creations from sculptor Ella Fielding. An artist rather than a landscaper, but the tool of her trade is the mighty chain saw. Jump to page 32 to discover how this power tool carved her career.

And finally a congratulations to the winners of the National Landscape Awards, which took place in London in early December. The grand award-winning project was Exchange Square a new public park, which has been re-imagined as a rustic landscape with trees, generously planted borders and green space in the centre of London. More on page 14.

Maggie Walsh, Editor maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk

Next issue copy deadline: 22nd February, 2023

To advertise please email us at landscaper@sheengate.co.uk

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

Contributors

Paula Warman | Jane McGowan | Greg Rhodes

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Maggie Walsh | maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk

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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 © 2023

Cover Story: Garden created at West Hill, near Woburn, Bedfordshire designed by James Scott and built by The Garden Company. The garden won a BALI special award for best design and build at the National Landscape Awards 2022. www.thegardenco.co.uk

Photo credit: James Scott.

BIGGA trains network of mental health first aiders

The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) has launched a campaign that will see the membership organisation combat a recognised rise in mental health struggles among golf club staff.

BIGGA has pledged to create 100 mental health first aiders during 2023, who will receive training that will give them the skills to support golf greenkeepers and other clubhouse staff through any difficulties they may be experiencing.

Poor mental health is one of the biggest challenges facing society today. A much-quoted fact is that 75% of deaths of men aged 50 and under are due to suicide, making it the biggest cause of death in that age bracket. The greenkeeping industry itself has been rocked by several tragic losses in recent years and in 2021 BIGGA undertook a survey that revealed 80% of greenkeepers had worried about the mental health of a colleague.

Working environments and money concerns are major causes of stress and mental health problems and BIGGA is working alongside golf’s governing bodies to improve governance and working practices at golf clubs. Stronger, more positive and respectful working environments should help relieve some of the undue pressures placed upon staff at present.

To further support those working in the golf industry, BIGGA has launched its campaign to train 100 mental health first aiders across the country. The training course provides the first aiders with knowledge to help them recognise signs or signals that colleagues or friends may be experiencing difficulties and empowers them to direct others towards available help.

The cost of the course is being met by BIGGA with support from The R&A and participants will receive a certificate from Mental Health England. In addition, participants will receive three years’ ongoing training and support from Mental Health England.

The opportunity to get involved is open to BIGGA members, including greenkeepers and trade representatives who spend much of their time on the road, visiting greenkeeping teams.

The first course will be held in February at Edgbaston Golf Club and further events will be hosted around the country, helping to build a national network of mental health first aiders.

The campaign is being led by BIGGA’s Steve Dudley-Brown, himself a former greenkeeper and course manager with 25 years’ experience in the industry.

Steve said: “During my career as a greenkeeper, I experienced several of my colleagues having mental health difficulties. It’s a scary situation knowing that you have someone in front of you and they are upset and afraid. You want to try and support them the best you can. This training course will give people the ability to understand a little more about what the person is going through and point them in the right direction for help.”

For more information or to register an interest, email steven.db@bigga.co.uk

New appointment for Boss vehicles

Boss off-road vehicles, the sole UK distributors of Corvus Off-road Vehicles, has appointed Matt Richardson as after sales manager. Matt officially joined the company on 1st January 2023 and will lead the re-structure of the after sales department to support Boss’s growth plans in the coming year.

Managing Director Phil Everett says: “Matt has been operating in this role and much more for a major outdoor

power equipment distributor and is, therefore, an absolutely perfect fit for us. We’re very pleased to welcome him to the team in this important period of expansion for the company and the Corvus Off-road vehicle brand.”

Phil adds Matt will be on the Boss ORV/Corvus stand (stand number 6.838 hall 6) at the LAMMA exhibition in January and to please pop in to say hello.

Steve Dudley-Brown

L-R: Matt Richardson and Phil Everett

Yorkshire nursery celebrates triple graduation from leadership scheme

Commercial plant nursery, Johnsons of Whixley, has seen three key staff members graduate from its Rising Stars programme, which aims to provide development opportunities to boost the teams’ skillset and progression within the Yorkshire firm.

The scheme, now in its fifth year, was created to fill a gap for local horticulture training and to develop the skills of existing staff members, enabling them to take on a more senior role within the business in the future.

Ned Antonov, Tom Chilton and Kieron Pattison received their awards after completing training experiences, technical modules, horticultural sessions, operational nursery activities, as well as a formal qualification in team leading which began in November 2020.

The programme is open to staff from all departments of the business and was delivered with a significant financial investment in external training providers, onsite training and external activities, including learning from supply and technology partners.

Graham Richardson, group managing director at Johnsons, said the future of the business was intrinsically linked with the abilities of the workforce: “Geographically we are isolated from the main hubs of horticultural activity and consequently the vast majority of relevant training programmes. It made perfect sense therefore for us to draw on our considerable experience to create our own bespoke training scheme that will help us nurture the next generation of managers and supervisors.

“We are confident that within our own pool of employees, there is the talent to lead us towards the future.”

2018 scheme graduate, Terry Cooper started out in the plant production team at Johnsons, but after progressing through the programme he now works in the IT department as systems support assistant.

L-R: Ned Antonov, Kieron Pattison and Tom Chilton

He added: “I found the programme a great help and have it partly to thank for ending up working where I am today. After finishing the course, I had a better understanding of horticulture as an industry and acquired some really helpful practical skills and theoretical knowledge.”

Launch of turfgrass seed guide

The British Society of Plant Breeders (BSPB) has launched a digital version of its Turfgrass Seed guide. The annually produced guide will also continue to be printed. However, to reduce the reliance on paper and make the information in-guide more widely available, a new section has been added to the BSPB website.

Commenting on the move, BSPB technical manager Jeremy Widdowson says: “This is the first time the Turfgrass Seed guide has been published fully on an interactive platform to offer greater accessibility for all UK users.”

The first guide was published in November 1976 and the following year it gained the title ‘Buying Turfgrass Seed’ which has since been simplified. Turfgrass Seed 2023 includes data and information to help guide seed choice for the amenity and sports grass sector. The information in the guide is largely provided from trials carried out by the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) to an agreed protocol.

“Trials conducted at Bingley, West Yorkshire, by STRI help to identify the characteristics of different cultivars. The guide reflects this by using parameters such as shoot

density, recovery, colour and visual merit to help decision-making for pitch care, ground care and amenity professionals,” added Mr Widdowson.

It is hoped, by publishing the data and advice on the BSPB website, that more people in the industry will benefit from its content. Mr Widdowson was also keen to emphasise the environmental benefits of offering the guide in both digital and printed forms:

“BSPB is reducing its reliance on paper-based methods of communication and the Turfgrass Seed guide is another example where our operating practices can be made more sustainable. A little over 5000 copies will still be printed. However, this number may start to reduce in future years as users choose to access content digitally and minimise the environmental impact of producing guides like this.”

The Turfgrass Seed guide can be viewed from 24 January 2023 at www.bspb.co.uk/turfgrass-list

Survey reveals tree care is key

A report comparing the tree canopy cover in a Devonshire council with a survey from ten years ago has been published.

In 2010, Torbay Council carried out an analysis of its tree population, using specialist tree valuation software, i-Tree. The study was able to apply monetary values to the ecosystem services the trees provided, for example, how much carbon the trees were storing and the percentage canopy cover. Over a decade later, the council re-ran the survey to monitor changes in its urban forest.

The 2022 project was carried out by a partnership between Treeconomics, Torbay Council owned company SWISCo, tree specialists RSK Hi-Line, Forest Research and Wild Planet Trust. Fieldwork was completed by teams of volunteer tree wardens from across the region, and Hi-Line representatives. The resulting data was analysed using ‘i-Tree’, a software suite developed by the US Forest Service and used around the world, to assess the structural value and environmental benefits of urban trees.

The report revealed that the number of trees in Torbay has reduced quite significantly - 692,000 trees were recorded in 2010, but only 458,800 in 2021. There has also been a reduction in tree density per hectare from 109 trees to 71 trees. And yet, canopy cover has actually increased significantly from 11.8% in 2010 to 18.2% in 2021. Even though the number of trees has decreased, tree canopy cover has gone up by 6.4% and the amount of carbon stored has similarly risen.

The loss of trees is partly explained by natural

thinning of trees in woodland areas and also to felling on development sites. Thankfully the increase in canopy cover is principally due to the existing trees being well maintained and receiving good care.

Kenton Rogers of Treeconomics, explains: “This highlights the importance of maintaining existing trees. The ongoing management of established trees has helped them thrive in Torbay.”

In summary, even though there are fewer trees in Torbay now, those that remain have been able to increase the area’s canopy cover significantly, helping the area to work towards its goal of 20%. It is doubtful whether this 6.4% increase would have been possible, had the council relied entirely on new tree planting. Tree planting is essential in any urban area, but a better approach to achieving an increase in canopy cover is one where resources and investment are made not only in tree planting but also in better management of trees already present.

Leader of Torbay Council, Steve Darling, comments: “The report recognises that it is really important to look after existing, established trees and this is something we will be working on with SWISCo, our contractors Hi-Line, and our tree warden volunteers.”

• Treeconomics is a social enterprise which works internationally with community groups, research organisations, public bodies, municipalities and private business, to complete projects which highlight the value of trees.

Stone Pines on Torquay seafront, Torbay, Devon

Dealership gives employees new lease of life

South West based ABA Groundcare has expanded with another a new depot opened recently in Tiverton, Devon.

Following the closure of MST in the town, Jamie Hutchings, owner of ABA Groundcare, seized the opportunity to expand his business and opened up a branch in Tiverton.

“We established the business in 2014 in Dorchester. We built up in that region and then looked to expand,” explains Jamie.

“I got to know Scott Struthers from MST and dealt and traded with him regularly. I offered him a job many times, but he always said no. When we heard what was happening with MST we offered five former members of the staff including Scott, a job at our new premises in Tiverton, totalling over 200 years experience.”

Jamie addes that employing skilled staff was an issue in every trade, and he was thankful that he could find five skilled new members willing to carry on working together.

The Tiverton branch of ABA Groundcare offers servicing and parts, supply garden machinery and agricultural vehicles from a range of the manufactures including Stihl, Yamaha, Husqvarna and Stiga alongside the specialist ISEKI ground care unit.

“We are continuing to offer a service which customers of MST now miss here in Tiverton,” says Jamie. “It’s also a great central location as you can get anywhere reasonably quickly in Devon from here.

“It’s a service-led business, but we sell as well,” Jamie adds. “We are here to look out for our customers; any sales are a bonus. Scott Struthers, previous sales rep for MST, has built up excellent relationships with customers in the area, it is great to have him on board to continue

offering the same service.”

Commenting on the change Scott Struthers says: “It’s the best outcome for me and my customers, I have built up such good relationships with so many in the Devon area and to be able to continue to build on this with such good support and service from ABA Groundcare is the ideal outcome for me.”

David Withers, managing director of ISEKI, adds: “It’s exciting for us. We’ve been trading with Jamie, ABA Groundcare for many years and have a great relationship, which makes it easier. We know Jamie; we know he is really customer focused and dedicated to the service side of the business, which is what customers really want.

“As well as that, you’ve got a group of people who we would’ve lost all of that industry knowledge if Jamie hadn’t stepped in to do what he’s done. It’s great for the customers in the area who will get great backup support, and we’ll get more exposure going forward. It’s excellent for Jamie to be able to expand his business.”

Landscape zone at GroundsFest

Organisers of the new trade show GroundsFest opening this September, have launched a new zone at the event dedicated to all those involved in the planning, design, and construction of outdoor environments in the landscaping sector.

The Landscape Zone is set to spotlight the latest landscaping technologies, solutions, and innovations, and will be a must-attend feature for landscape architects, local authority landscaping professionals, garden designers, landscape contractors, interior designers, facility managers and many more.

The Landscape Zone will be headed by Jess McCabe, an award-winning event specialist who previously worked on the landscaping event FutureScape.

“GroundsFest is an exciting concept and I’m delighted to be involved,” says Jess. “After working in the industry for many years, I know that this concept ticks so many boxes for the landscaping sector. For visitors, it will have everything a landscaping professional needs to help them in their designs and projects. Additionally, it enables

them to see all the other leading groundscare brands on display and products in action; and then there is the festival element which will be a great networking opportunity.”

Commenting on the new zone, GroundsFest Event Director Christopher Bassett says: “Our intention has always been to bring together all corners of the groundscare industry and launching The Landscape Zone is another step towards this goal.

“This new initiative signals the huge support we have already received to date and accommodates the strong demand for exhibitor space. To open an entirely new hall at GroundsFest after launching just 12 weeks ago shows how far we have come.

Groundfest will take place on 21-22nd September at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.

To find out more visit: www.groundsfest.com

Jess McCabe will oversee the Landscape Zone

Bernhard Academy appoints Director of Education

Industry-leader in sports turf technologies, Bernhard and Company, has announced the appointment of Craig Haldane as Director of Education for the Bernhard Academy.

Speaking on Haldane’s appointment, Bernhard and Company Managing Director, Steven Nixon, said: “We’re thrilled to unveil Craig as Director of Education for the Bernhard Academy. Craig has had an outstanding career as Golf Courses Manager at Gleneagles and at some of the best venues in the Middle East. He’s undoubtedly one of the most well-respected and knowledgeable members of the industry and brings with him a passion and drive to help others.”

Discussing his new role, Haldane said: “I’m delighted to be following my passion, which is developing both the industry and its people. My career has allowed me to understand the need for education to continue to move forward, and the Bernhard Academy has a wonderful opportunity to provide that. To be given the chance to lead that process and develop these educational programmes for the future is really exciting.”

After working in the Middle East at venues such as the Emirates Golf Club, Craig took on the role

of Golf Courses Manager at Gleneagles in 2018. During his time there, he oversaw the playing of the Solheim Cup and more recently the Senior Open Championship.

The Bernhard Academy is located at the company’s factory in Haverhill, Suffolk with further satellite training facilities at Moortown Golf Club and Royal Norwich. Haldane and his team will be refining existing training modules in addition to creating entirely new programmes designed to help greenkeepers and turf professionals take their performance to the next level.

Kubota launches solutions hub

Kubota has launched an online communication website called Kubota Group Solutions Hub. This new platform is an initiative from Kubota Holdings Europe (KHE) to bring together innovative customer solutions from multiple brands under the Kubota Group umbrella. These include Kubota, Great Plains, Kverneland, Vicon, Fede and ROC.

The hub brings together stories about customer solutions with technologies that enable users to successfully overcome industry challenges, under the themes of innovation, sustainability, connectivity, automation and efficiency. Each story describes the challenge faced and the solution provided from each brand, along with videos and customer testimonials. And at the conclusion of

each story, there is a description of how these solutions specifically contribute towards the achievement of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals. Visitors to the site can discover various stories shared by Kubota’s tractor, construction and engine divisions, as well as from Kverneland Group (Kverneland, Vicon and ROC), Great Plains Manufacturing and Fede. This new platform also enables the various Kubota Group companies to progressively ramp-up communications towards key industry events, for example the forthcoming Agritechnica event that will take place from 12-18 November 2023 in Hannover, Germany. www.kubota-group.eu

Winners celebrate at the National Landscape Awards

The 46th National Landscape Awards, run by the British Association of Landscape Industries, took place in early December, 2022 in London to celebrate the skills, hard work, quality, commitment, and successes of Association members. The awards recognise excellence in landscape design, construction, and maintenance both in the UK and overseas, as well as supplier exceptional service and employer excellence.

Accredited Contractor Maylim took home the prestigious Grand Award, sponsored by Green-tech, and Principal Award in their category for Hard Landscaping Construction (non-domestic) - Over £500K for the redevelopment of the unique Exchange Square, London.

This is the second grand award win for the hard and soft landscaping specialists, who won back in 2017 for One Tower Bridge.

The grand award-winning project, ‘Exchange Square’ sits at the heart of Broadgate, London’s largest pedestrianised neighbourhood. Suspended above the tracks of Liverpool Street Station, the landscape, spanning 5,000m2, unfolds across several levels to create a more natural topography. Exchange Square is a new public park, which has been re-imagined as a rustic landscape with trees, generously planted borders, and green space.

Rather than simply demolish the existing scheme, the contractor chose to ‘deconstruct’ it, dismantling

and removing the hard materials, including 300 tonnes of granite and 20 tonnes of boulders, and re-purposing them on other public realm projects. This approach has reduced the environmental impact and financial costs of the new scheme.

This year’s National Landscape Awards’ Judges, led by experienced Chair John Melmoe, jointly commented that, “This scheme is not only an exemplar of public realm landscaping excellence, fully deserving of the grand award, but also a lesson in finding and pursuing alternative solutions to the challenges faced by contractors who are replacing existing hard landscapes.”

The project aimed to transform the ageing, corporate and rectilinear former square into an accessible, natural city park with sweeping curves and a four-fold increase in green space. A bespoke and unique pallet of materials was used across the scheme, quite different to any other public realm in the UK. Over 3,000 individual pieces of CNC cut terrazzo form the sweeping amphitheatre, cascading water feature and raised planters.

From start to finish, placemaking was at the very heart of the project. Throughout the construction period, Maylim's interaction and collaboration with local communities and businesses surrounding Exchange Square extended the positive impacts of the scheme, providing opportunities for rest and relaxation amidst the bustle of city life.

Exchange Square is a re-imagined as a rustic landscape by Grand Award winners Maylim

Chair of the Judging Panel John Melmoe concluded: “The repurposing and reusing of existing materials on this project has reduced the environmental impact and financial costs of the new scheme and must surely be a sustainable way forward for future public realm projects.”

Lifetime Achievement

The Association is currently celebrating its 50th Anniversary, and in recognition of the progress the Association has made in this time, the Board of Directors wished to recognise an individual who was instrumental in its founding, with the Associations first ever Lifetime Achievement Award.

Nigel Bowcock, National Chair announced the first Lifetime Achievement Award was being presented to Jeffrey Bernhard OBE. Jeffrey was a founding member of the Association in 1972, and the first National Chair. He, along with the support of others, gave thousands of hours of their own time, alongside their business and personal commitments to establish the Association as a trade body representing the best interests of the whole industry.

63 National Landscape Awards bestowed on 53 members

Awards entries were judged over the summer with 63 National Landscape Awards bestowed on 53 members of the Association in September and 26 principal, three special and the coveted grand award announced live on stage at the prestigious ceremony.

Other notable wins announced at the Awards ceremony came from Accredited Contractor Nurture Landscapes who won four principal awards, for Kings Cross Estate, Winnersh Triangle Business Park, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, and 250 Bishopsgate. Bowles & Wyer and Wright Landscapes were both presented with three principal awards, and 2021 Grand Award winners Graduate Gardeners won two principal awards

for private gardens in Cheltenham and Painswick.

Best first time entrant, sponsored by Makita UK, was awarded to Ellicar for their Wildlife and Water Garden in Nottinghamshire. Best design and build, sponsored by Springbridge Direct, went to The Garden Company for their work at a new build private residence in West Hill. Phoebe Hay of Landform Consultants was presented with a special award for exemplary horticultural skill, sponsored by CED Stone Group, for their roof garden project, The Garden at 120.

Events Project Manager, Emily Feeney says: “Once again, this year’s National Landscape Awards has highlighted the fantastic work our Association members have achieved. Despite an ever-changing climate, year on year members continue to produce outstanding schemes that showcase the best the industry has to offer. A huge congratulations from myself and the rest of the Landscape House team to all this year’s winners and in particular our 2022 Grand Award Winner, Maylim!”

Host for the ceremony was actor and writer Ralf Little, best known for the roles of Antony Royle in The Royle Family and currently as DI Neville Parker in the crime show Death in Paradise.

British Association of Landscape Industries Chief Executive, Wayne Grills adds: “I am delighted to welcome back our members and guests to the 46th National Landscape Awards. Congratulations to all of our principal and special award winners, with huge congratulations to Maylim, our 2022 Grand Award winner, which impressed our judges not only with the landscaping excellence of the overall project, but also the additional repurposing of existing materials, reducing the financial costs of the scheme, and highlighting the importance of sustainability”.

View the full list of award-winners on the National Landscape Awards website.

Benefitting from a collection at the event, this year’s chosen charities were the BALI Chalk Fund and Perennial who will share £3,414.71 between them, generously donated by guests.

Phoebe Hay of Landform Consultants wins Special Award for a roof garden project, The Garden at 120

Special Award for Best First Time Entrant goes to Ellicar for their Wildlife & Water Garden in Nottinghamshire

Forward planning

Association of Professional Landscapers general manager, Phil Tremayne, speaks with Greg Rhodes offering advice on navigating a business through tough times, while keeping track with ever changing industry regulations

Later this year, landscapers working with paving are expected to face fresh guidance on how to comply with their trade standard regulations BS7533. This series of standards covers the design, installation and repair of modular paving including flags/slabs and block pavers to kerbs, channels and permeable paving. Confusing even

to the most experienced hardscaper, these revisions are essentially to make the information easier to follow.

Part 101 of the standard will focus on design of mainly commercial schemes and part 102 focuses on the implementation and laying of paving. And with sustainability continuing to be a “buzz” word into 2023,

Garden designed by MAPL Designer Adam Vetere and built by Landscape member JJH Landscapes entered into the APL awards. This sustainable garden is almost entirely permeable, using the rocks that were mostly existing, the mounds formed were done so by sculpting the land avoiding significant dig outs and back filling and the planting is entirely drought resistant.

the correct use of BS7533 will ensure that the design life of schemes is met and that only the correct amount of material is used within the project.

"Importantly, '102' will link with building greater sustainability into landscaping projects,” says Phil Tremayne.

Currently out for consultation among both larger and smaller landscapers, the revision will bid to give contractors greater sway on meeting the standard by building its measures into their quotations.

“The aim is to raise the professionalism of the industry,” says Phil who, with support from APL vice chair David Strows, instigated the APL’s codes of practice. The codes have been developed in line with current BS standards and freely available to the whole industry. David sits on a sub group with BS and is supporting the creation of the new 102.

Raising APL member awareness of these latests measures is part and parcel of the APL's drive to help deliver more quantifiable quality to particularly domestic projects.

Pesticides and herbicides

Other advice coming from Phil and his colleagues at APL relates to the use of pesticides. His advice for landscapers this year will ring familiar to many, with the accent on toughening up rules of client engagement.

Phil warns of “talking ourselves into recession”, although recent data suggest the UK has already sunk into negative growth. Costing jobs remains tricky, he continues relating back to hardscaping.

“Although some stone companies swallowed rises, pricing for projects is still difficult, given the volatile nature of prices for materials"

In addition, the price of moving from 'grey to green' for some clients may be too harsh in tough times. The APL has run zoom webinars on sustainable drainage systems (SUDS) and soakaways with Steintec, manufacturers of paving mortars, to raise awareness, while Phil advises landscapers to work closely with specialist designers.

“They are switched on to biodiversity and can design elements into projects for landscapers to build in,” he explains.

"Nearly all landscapers hold the capability to design gardens but schemes can become formulaic if always produced in house. Designers can introduce fresh thinking and ideas so collaboration is the way forward, rather than an 'us and them' approach.”

PRIORITIES FOR LANDSCAPERS IN 2023:

• Know your costs, especially if you are a smaller contractor

• Hold your price, resist discounting

“Given the new Plant Protection Products regulations brought in last June, we are urging landscapers to think carefully about their usage of pesticides and herbicides and to make them aware of the fines they face if not registered to buy, store and apply plant protection products.”

It’s helping the move to fostering a more robust environmental/sustainability policy is the APL's annual assessment of its members' compliance. “We want to be seen as a supportive organisation,” Phil states.

Cost of Living

Energy (currently uncapped rates at time of writing) will remain key priorities for those working in commercial settings across the sector but for smaller landscaping contractors, such as APL members, which may have offices in their homes, capped rates “are not that big a deal,” says Phil.

However, storm clouds are gathering. The Covid lockdowns created a landscaping boom, which inflated growth, Phil explains. “Under the cost of living crisis, the domestic market faces significant shrinkage at the lower end, which could severely affect smaller landscapers. Inquiry rates are already starting to slow, members report.”

But while legislation covers install of SUDS on new builds, retrofits fall outside the measure, Phil states, adding: "Few if any checks are undertaken by planning authorities or inspectorates unfortunately."

Educating clients

Educating the public is a key priority for landscapers. “Artificial grass are cursed words [in sustainability]. Whilst the specification of a landscape design is ultimately for the client, we encourage our members to share as much information and ideas as they can with their clients on sustainable options for their project,” says Phil.

The APL is among the founder members of the crossindustry Sustainable Landscape Forum, a professional network for garden landscapers and designers to share knowledge, ideas and experience on sustainability with each other. For the last three years sustainability has been a part of the judging criteria of the APL Awards.

Those wanting to further their green credentials could join a local sustainable landscape forum. “Some members are passionate about the subject,” Phil suggests, but there’s still massive scope for growing the movement.

Going electric

Appetite for electric vehicles remains low, Phil says, with “no huge demand to switch from traditional fuels”, although decisions may vary from site to site as fleet managers ponder a move to small electric vans.

It's a different matter with hand tools such as stone

cutters, strimmers and blowers though. “Battery technology is so good now, with some makers such as Makita only supplying battery tools. Switching over is easier as the power source is in the van.”

Phil concludes by pinpointing arguably the greatest challenge to the landscaping sector moving forward –staffing. “The sector remains under-resourced with few signs of improvement,” he states, “particularly skilled staff.”

Industry bodies British Association Landscape Industries, Horticultural Trades Association and APL are exploring ways to “engage with landscaping”, while corporates such as Marshalls run training academies. The APL has introduced block release for apprentices taking their Level 2 City & Guilds at Myerscough for example.

“We aim for nine apprentices a year but usually only get six,” says Phil. “The APL also has two committee members who run landscape academies – Mark Youde of The Landscape Academy and Rupert Keys of Task, with support from APL standards are also training the future,” he adds.

His message for 2023 then is to think career building for staff in a mission to stimulate quality and upskilling in what is a challenging environment.

Sustainable drainage systems to become mandatory

All new developments in England will be required to make sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) a mandatory requirement by 2024 Defra confirmed recently. It comes as UK weather and climate records are being set more frequently and a projected increase in the urban population is anticipated between now and 2030.

A growing population, climate change and urbanisation are all expected to add to the existing pressures of the country’s ‘constrained traditional sewers’, which has a knock-on effect for local surface and sewer flooding.

Leading landscape architecture and engineering design studio Land Studio welcomed the news. Lisa Sawyer, Director of Civil Engineering at the Chester based studio says:

“We believe that all developments need good drainage systems in place in order for them to function effectively and to be futureproof in terms of climate change.

“Putting the right water control structures and strategies in place, often using the existing ground profile, allows water to be slowed down and held back in a natural way.”

Writing in the review, the Rt Hon Thérèse Coffey MP and Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, says: “Such green infrastructure can provide a sustainable way to drain land, protect against surface water and sewer flooding, reduce storm overflow discharges, harvest water at the same time as enhancing local biodiversity and amenity.

“We must increase the use of these alternative solutions to improve drainage, particularly in urban areas where systems must cope with both runoff and wastewater.”

The review recommends implementation subject to final decisions on scope, threshold and process once a full regulatory impact assessment has been completed. The assessment will look at different options and the expected costs and benefits.

Defra will carry out a consultation in 2023 to collect views.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/sustainable-drainage-systems-review

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Trading Places

Landscapers, turf professionals and suppliers are busy setting their schedules for 2023. Is there time to fit in a trade show, too?

Maggie Walsh discovers why putting at least one trade event in the diary can be beneficial

Trade shows offer opportunities for both exhibitors and attendees to gather under one roof. It’s a chance for businesses to help their growth - whether as an exhibitor finding leads to sell the latest products or as a visitor looking for essential tools of the trade.

Before Covid, shows were very much part of the landscaper’s calendar of events. But the pandemic changed the exhibition landscape somewhat. Zoom took centre stage as some exhibition organisers attempted remote networking, while other savvy businesses utilised social media, such as You Tube to showcase their products.

But most across the industry agree that there is nothing better than meeting face to face and welcomed the news when in person events were back on. According to a survey undertaken in 2022 by exhibition supplier, Display Wizard, 95% of those interviewed (across all industries) said they preferred in-person events despite the growth of virtual events during the pandemic.

Vicky Panniers organiser of SAGE (Sports & Grounds

Expo) which takes place in July agrees, saying: “Since Covid, we have seen a large shift in exhibitor and visitor expectations. People are looking for a more interactive, immersive experience. This is why we have such an emphasis on ‘try before you buy’ – we know visitors are not just there to buy products, as this is something they can easily do online!”

“We offer a-on demo experience that can’t be achieved with online shopping or at other indoor trade shows. For exhibitors, this helps to generate sales and increase their brand exposure.”

It takes an average of 4.5 sales calls to close a sale without an exhibition lead, and only 3.5 sales calls to close a lead from an exhibition - basically face to face closes a sale quicker. But what are the expectations from visitors and exhibitors? Are they fussed whether it is an indoor event or outdoor event, as long as a deal can be made?

One of the oldest events within the landscaping sector SALTEX (run by he Grounds Management Association,

GMA) was traditionally an outdoor event held every summer in Windsor, but made the move to the indoor arena at NEC, Birmingham in 2015. “The move allowed SALTEX to be more accessible for numerous reasons, most especially the central UK location and ensured the show did not have to rely on the unpredictable British weather,” explains Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA.

There is always going to be someone not satisfied with a show format but SALTEX, celebrating its 77th year this November, has evolved and adapted over the seven-plus decades. “Exhibitions, by their very nature, have cycles and continually must focus on the delivery of the event but always look to the future as well,” says Geoff.

Research from GroundsFest, a new show within the sector launching for the first time at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire this September suggests it is outdoor demonstration opportunities that lure people to these events.

Bringing a mix of indoor space and outdoor demonstration areas, Event director Chris Bassett says: “The motivation behind launching GroundsFest was based on extensive research and independent surveys. The results show that September is the most favoured time of year and that a mix of both indoor space and outdoor demonstrations is the preferred format.

“As well as seeing products in action and trying them out for themselves, there is going to be some great hands-on, interactive features, at GroundsFest. For example, there will be live working stations where visitors can find out the latest trial data and many more. There will be a service workshop where a leading expert will be on hand to tell you how to maintain and get the best out of your equipment.

GroundsFest also promises to offer workstations which are designed to, “enhance an individual’s knowledge and skillset”.

Indeed seminars and workshops are very much part of all of the industry exhibitions, as they expose people to new ways of thinking, which in turn can better support their clients and customers as they help create ideas of new ways to achieve business success. BTME - the show for greenkeepers and those working within the golf and turf industry, takes the seminars one step further with their Continue to Learn events just prior to its two day show every January in Harrogate.

“With hundreds of hours of education and attendees from every level of golfing and sporting facility, it has

been estimated that Continue to Learn generates more than two hours of learning for every golf club in the United Kingdom,” says Karl Hansell Head of Marketing and Communications at British and International Greenkeepers Association who runs the BTME.

“Key to the success of the programme is that while it provides practical skills and education, the programme

“September is the favoured time for an event and a mix of both indoor space and outdoor demonstrations is the preferred format.”

has evolved to meet all the needs of modern turf professionals. There are elements relating to all aspects of team and golf course management, such as budgeting, leadership, mental health and countless other topics.

“These skills are widely transferable, not just to grounds managers in other sports but also anyone working within the industry who has an interest in developing their abilities and making golf clubs, sports facilities and other venues positive and thriving places to work.”

“Trade shows are the life blood of any industry, they provide huge learning opportunities and face to face opportunities to engage with peer groups,” he says. But, he adds, that visitors are also “on the look out for new suppliers, new products and new ways to do things.

“From an exhibitor’s point of view, current clients are always looking for the ‘next new thing. Manufacturers should make sure they are in front of them as many times as possible in order react to their needs and pick up that business.

“Visitors too, should make every effort to attend and engage with new exhibitors especially and see what they have to offer. An event is only great when we all pull together to make it a success and help move this amazing industry forward!”

• For full interviews from all our trade show organisers visit www.landscapermagazine.com

Jeremy Storey-Walker, Event Director at LANDSCAPE, another indoor at the NEC aimed at landscape architects, local government, garden designers and landscapers concurs that learning opportunities are key to such events.

TIPS ON MAKING THE MOST OF VISITING A TRADE SHOW

1. Plan ahead and decide what is the purpose of your visit. Is it for inspiration, to see the latest products or to seek latest tips in industry.

2. Book seminars in advance and create a list of exhibitors you want to see.

3. Utilise your social media profiles to let people know you are attending and ask if anyone would like to catch up at the event.

4. Maximise your networking opportunity by booking in meetings with people exhibiting or attending before you go.

5. Collect contact details of anyone you met who you would like to connect with after the show and note down what you spoke about and possible opportunities.

6. Follow up on every conversation and connection made in a timely fashion.

“95% prefer in person events”

WHATEVER THE PROBLEM

Know someone who works with plants, trees, flowers or grass who is struggling physically, financially or personally?

Our friendly and experienced team can help families through life-changing events with health, money and family support.

Please spread the word that Perennial is here with free, confidential and personal support.

Helpline:

0800 093 8543

perennial.org.uk

World class stadiums use GrassMax

Nineteen world cup games and 38 training sessions in Qatar were played on GrassMax hybrid grass NextGen technology.

GrassMax hybrid grass NextGen technology features in over 750 installations throughout the world and has played a part in stadiums that have hosted the Olympic Games, the Rugby World Cup and the football World Cup.

The pitches benefitting from the innovative technology in Qatar included Al Bayt Stadium, the host venue of the opening ceremony,and the iconic Lusail Stadium.

19 games and 38 training sessions in 4 weeks at the Qatar World Cup was significantly above average usage, hence the need for reinforcement. The GrassMax NextGen hybrid technology controls surface and subbase damage and by doing so reduces the risk of injuries.

Furthermore, the climate conditions in Qatar and high-intensive usage of the pitches demanded a specialist approach. In close collaboration with the pitch consultants and construction companies, GrassMax Systems managed to deliver state of the art surfaces for the venues.

Two laser guided machines have stitched each pitch –injecting around 20 million hybrid PP fibres, 18cm into the subbase in a 2 x 2 cm pattern.

By reinforcing the surface and subbase, the hybrid PP fibres anchor the natural rootzone to avoid damage that can be caused by fierce tackles and players sliding across the surface.

The Qatar World Cup Organising Committee sought the expertise of GrassMax Systems due to

the extensive experience and know-how of Marc Vercammen, General Manager, and Yves De Cocker, Sales Director for GrassMax.

The company has been involved in several iconic projects including the new Paris Saint Germain (PSG) FC training centre (100,000m2 hybrid grass) and PSG’s stadium; the new Leicester City FC training centre (45,000m2 hybrid grass) and the club’s King Power Stadium; Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro; and various pitches for Arsenal FC, Tottenham Hotspur FC, Real Madrid CF, Athletic Bilbao and many more.

High praise for Iseki

Richard Ayling, Grounds Manager at Merchant Taylors’ School in Middlesex, has praised his new fleet of ISEKI tractors for helping the grounds team maintain 300 acres of estate.

Merchant Taylors’ is an independent day school for boys, aged 11 to 18. “We try and give the boys the best experience they can in whatever sport they want to enjoy,” says Richard. “We have more than 80 acres of sport areas and that sits in nearly 300 acres of estate including the preparatory school grounds. This is why we need to invest in the best machinery.”

Richard, who has been at Merchant Taylors’ for 26 years and oversees a team of 10, explained that up until recently he was tied into a five-year contract hire for the school’s larger equipment. That contract was coming to an end, and he began to research the market.

Richard purchased two ISEKI TG6507’s and a TG6687 which both benefit from the innovative dual-clutch IQ gearbox. It combines the ultimate comfortable automatic operation with the advantages of manual gear changes. Specific to the IQ range of TG tractors the Headland management controls are also perfect when working with turf maintenance implements. The PTO Stop/Start function allows you to stop the PTO when

19 World Cup games and 38 training sessions in Qatar were played on GrassMax hybrid grass NextGen technology

the link arms are raised for ease of operation. PTO Stop in reverse lifts the arms to a pre-set height if reverse gear is selected to prevent any damage to implements. These are fully adjustable.

Richard also purchased the ISEKI TH5370, which is ideal for areas where lightweight machinery is required, and he mainly uses this on the school’s synthetic sports pitches.

“We’ve really put all four ISEKI tractors to the test since we have had them and they have come through with flying colours,” he said. “The tractors allow us to use a

wide variety of implements including blowers, spreaders, seeders, brushes and scarifiers – the flexibility is brilliant, and they are really helpful when we are renovating.

“I also like having the ability to adjust the height of the arms at the back when attaching implements, the PTO is great, and the inside of the cab is really comfortable. They may be compact in size, but they are powerful and have a lot of oomph. They are all stage V as well which ticks our credentials in terms of reducing carbon footprint.”

ICL introduces biodegradable CRF technology

ICL are introducing a revolutionary biodegradable coating technology for its controlled release fertilisers (CRF) in the turf market: eqo.s® technology.

The new coating for nitrogen is compliant with future (EU) fertiliser regulations, helping turf managers to improve their nutrient use efficiency (NUE) and will provide a solution for future sustainable turf management programmes.

With its patented eqo.s release technology, ICL takes the lead in providing a fully biodegradable coating that breaks down faster than existing coating technologies. The innovation will be introduced in ICL’s CRF portfolio for the turf segment, starting with the premium ranges Sierrablen and Sierrablen Plus.

In order to meet expected market demand, ICL has invested $20 million in a new production line for eqo.s release technology at its Heerlen facility in the Netherlands. CRFs with eqo.s technology ensure optimal turf performance. The innovation is thoroughly tested in the field and has proven to be as reliable as current coatings, thus maintaining the high quality you can expect from ICL products. eqo.s release technology shows consistent and predictable nutrient release patterns while also limiting environmental impact by reducing nutrient losses and by increasing the NUE. After all nutrients are released, the coating degrades faster than ever before.

What turf professionals need to know

CRF products with eqo.s technology have the same advantages for turf professionals as current coating technologies as they improve the NUE and nutrient uptake by the plant. In addition:

• Field trials with eqo.s prove similar, significant reduction in nitrogen leaching, volatilisation and denitrification.

• eqo.s shows improved growth and quality with reduced fertiliser inputs, as fewer applications are required versus conventional fertilisers.

• eqo.s shows the same consistent, reliable nutrient release for optimal growth.

Our CRF products are of the highest possible quality, and the technology we introduce today, eqo.s, works similar to the previous coating technologies, but with some key improvements”, confirms Dr Andy Owen, ICL lnternational Technical Manager Turf & Landscape. “The application rates and high quality results will remain, and even the look of the product is comparable. It is good news for turf managers and greenkeepers as their CRF products will give the same high performance as before. What makes it revolutionary is that the fully biodegradable eqo.s coating breaks down quicker and is completely compliant with future fertiliser regulations.”

Spreading the eqo.s revolution

Though eqo.s technology will first be introduced into ICL’s premium CRF ranges of Sierrablen and Sierrablen Plus in 2023, ICL is confident that by, mid-2026, when the new biodegradability requirements will take effect on the EU market, the company will be able to provide fast biodegradable coatings for all its CRFs in the turf and landscape market.

ICL are introducing a revolutionary biodegradable coating technology for its controlled release fertilisers (CRF) in the turf market: eqo.s® technology

Dazzling wildflowers benefit people and pollinators

Seed from the Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) Euroflor range has transformed three meadow areas within Worth Park, Crawley in Sussex as part of a wider conservation project underway by the borough council. With the aim of increasing plant diversity and providing all-important habitat and food for pollinators, the wildflowers were introduced by Head Gardener Stephen Peters using OAS’s biodegradable FloraFleece – helping to deliver maximum visual and ecological benefit, with minimal impact on the environment.

Worth Park Conservation Garden sits in 8.5 hectares of green space which has undergone a complete restoration over the past few years, making it an important community and destination venue for residents and visitors to Crawley.

“The objective of the wildflower project was to provide an essential food source (nectar) for pollinators and demonstrate that making a healthier ecosystem that benefits both humans and wildlife need not be complicated or involve intensive preparations with harmful chemicals that we traditionally see,” explains Stephen, who is also Horticulture Advisor to Crawley’s Tilgate and Goff Parks.

“Together with my Horticulture Apprentice Tom, we prepared three areas using the FloraFleece from OAS.” The FloraFleece is composed of 50% jute, 25% cotton, 25% brown wool and hessian scrim that acts to suppress weeds and provide an ideal seed bed for wildflowers, before biodegrading naturally over the next seven or eight months. “We just had to roll the matting out, lay three or four inches of soil over the top and sow the seed – all of which was complete in a day.”

Stephen continues, “Following many visits and conversations about the project, Mike Ring from Origin Amenity came in with a catalogue and together we opted for the Euroflor Discovery box. I really liked this option because it incorporated a range of Euroflor mixtures which would give us annuals, bi-annuals and perennials for a rich source of nectar for our pollinators and wildlife, along with maximum colour and plant diversity. These were sown in mid-March and we started to see growth in approximately six weeks.”

“The results were nothing short of beautiful. We had people taking photographs, sharing feedback on social media and we even had a local artist in her 90’s paint one of the wildflower meadows, the end result now proudly hanging in the community room of Ridley’s Court. Importantly, we have also noted a big increase in the number of pollinators we’ve seen so the project did its job and more!”

Once the flowering period was over, the meadows were harvested down to four inches with the trimmings left in piles before being passed through a small shredder. “We scattered the shredded material back over the plots and found that where the seed had been chipped through the shredding process, we saw the emergence of young seedlings growing again in less than two weeks.”

He concludes: “This project has demonstrated what can be achieved if we all look to ‘recycle, reuse, reseed and rejuvenate’. We couldn’t have hoped for a more successful trial and our aim now is to build on this with the help of OAS, to create new wildflower areas in some of the other parks under my remit.”

Wildflower meadow at Worth Park, Crawley

After flowering the meadows were harvested

Vision ahead

Paula Warman looks to the year ahead with optimism and offers tips on how to stay well and focused

Welcome to 2023! Can you believe that we are well into the first month of a new year. How does that feel for you? It can be a time for new starts, new year’s resolutions and a new spring in your step as you look forward to how this year is going to be better than the last.

I personally am excited about the year ahead and I have three ideas to share with you on how to kickstart the year and keep up renewed motivation.

IDEA 1 - I have started this year with a vision board. By definition this is ‘a collage of images and words representing a person’s wishes or goals, intended to serve as inspiration or motivation.’

Not only is a vision board fun to create, but it offers a great way to help you decide what you want to achieve – it helps to motivate and focuses you on your goals, improves mindset and most importantly offers better chances of success.

The latest episode of The Limitless Landscaper’s Podcast covers Vision boards in more detail check it out on Spotify or Apple podcasts.

IDEA 2 - Make time for wellness and self-care! Self-care includes everything related to staying physically healthy as well as taking steps to manage stress and your wellbeing. It may take a little additional effort, but try to engage in healthy eating, exercise and walks in nature. Manage your

hydration and sleep patterns, and take time out to do the things you love – maybe reading or even meditating. It is about prioritising your needs and your time to include self-care and wellness activities.

IDEA 3

Surround yourself with the right support network to ensure your success. A team of people who you can turn to for encouragement and help. Build your network by reaching out to people who inspire you, make time for positive friends and family, get a mentor and join groups of like-minded people and businesses.

As the owner of The Landscaper’s Circle, I support and mentor other landscapers and garden designers in their businesses and in turn have built a growing community that help each other. As part of this I was recenlty invited by the wonderful industry charity Perennial to train as a Mental Health First Aider. I completed my training and qualified in December. It now means that I can not only support my clients and community but family and friends and this has been a huge gain from the start. If anyone needs some support in this capacity please get in touch.

If you are looking to build a support network then The Landscaper’s Circle is a good start, this is why I created TLC and my goal is to help other businesses in the landscaping industry to not only have successful businesses but have a happy and fulfilling life whilst doing so.

If you are new to The Landscaper’s Circle I have a brand new FREE Masterclass ‘Your 5 Step Plan to Build a Successful Landscape and Garden Design Business’ now available for you, just visit https://thelandscaperscircle.co.uk/discover/

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

STIGA launches revolutionary mower

STIGA, European manufacturer and distributor of garden machinery and equipment, is launching a new autonomous robot mower from 1st March, 2023 at selected dealers. The company says that this innovative machine that will revolutionise lawn care by combining RTK GPS with a patented, predictive AGS technology for a strong, stable signal that prevents mowing stoppages and guarantees precision cutting.

With its new robot, STIGA aims to solve some of the most common problems of normal robot mowers, for example, loss of GPS signal, blocked radio signals, and lawn damage due to over-mowing.

This autonomous robot is the first to bring predictive AGS technology to gardens, ensuring organised and smooth mowing, even on complex and challenging lawns.  It is able to cover all zones of the lawn, avoiding overmowing by passing several times in the same area, for an even and beautiful lawn every time.

Thanks to AGS technology, the robot learns and remembers where GPS signal reception is weak or interrupted and determines where blind spots exist in the garden. This allows it to plan the most effective mowing route of the day, without signal loss, stoppage or owner intervention.

To overcome obstacles and keep the exchange of corrective data stable, the robot is equipped with a 4G connection, allowing it to never lose contact with the reference station and always operate with extreme precision.

A unique ePower ensures longer battery life and energy efficiency by running longer between charges, so the lawn is cared for in just two cutting cycles per day – although allowing maximum flexibility on sessions’ scheduling –with little chance of over-mowing. This also means more time for the grass to recover and stay healthy. STIGA's autonomous robot mowers further enhance this principle by introducing systematic cutting: with multiple mowing patterns and direction settings, autonomous robot mowers can cultivate healthier, lusher lawns.

STIGA Autonomous mower

Equipped with a 4G connection, the robot never loses contact with the reference station

New irrigation products with focus on saving water

As droughts and water usage restrictions look set to become more frequent, new ways of saving water and using it more efficiently are being seriously considered by property owners and contractors. Rain Bird continues to address the situation with their new product developments.

For example, Rain Bird’s new ESP-LXME 2 and ESPLXME 2 PRO traditionally wired modular irrigation controllers offer additional features with the focus on water conservation, flexibility and simplicity in use. They are compatible with Rain Bird's IQ4 Cloud irrigation management system.

second Master Valve or Pump Start output.

Thanks to the modularity of the controller, the ESP-LXME 2 can also be upgraded to the PRO version by installing the PRO Smart Module. With IQ4-Cloud compatibility through the Pro Smart IQ Connection Module, a full suite of remote irrigation management and reporting tools are available. These cover, for example, detailed analysis of irrigation times, total water usage and other performance data that can be created and shared. Automated alarms, e-mail alerts and text notifications will help to identify and manage quickly any operational issues on-site.

Rain Bird Flow Sensor technology is designed to monitor irrigation systems and identify any emerging problems. Leaks or line breaks, typically caused by root intrusion, groundworks or vehicles could go unnoticed without flow sensors and result in damage to property, flooded landscapes and higher water bills.

The new FG100 Flow Sensor is designed for residential or smaller commercial installations. It provides year round protection for the investment in an irrigation system by monitoring for high or low flow and instantly identifying when there is a leak or line break.

Designed for new and retrofit installations, the ESPLXME 2 controller allows the user to customise irrigation station capacity from 12 to 48 stations. 40 independent irrigation programs can be set with up to10 starts per programme, providing high flexibility for users in irrigation scheduling. A large backlit LCD screen with an easy navigation soft key user interface enables programming to be carried out simply and quickly.

ESP-LXME 2's water management features include FloManager, which manages demand to maximise use of water and shorten total watering times. The SimulStation capability allows up to five stations to be programmed to operate at the same time. For further conservation of water, Cycle + Soak by station and a rain delay feature are included as well as a weather sensor that can be programmed by station to prevent or pause watering. Program Day Cycles include customised days of the week, odd and even dates and repeat cycles. Seasonal adjustments to account for rainfall can also be programmed.

With the ESP-LXME 2 PRO model, additional flow sensing capability includes FloWatch which protects against high and low water flow conditions and LearnFlow which intuitively learns flow rates based on real time usage. It also supports an additional booster pump through a

Information is fed back to a linked Rain Bird ESP-ME3 controller that supports flow monitoring and remedial action can be undertaken immediately. When paired with Rain Bird’s Mobile App for iPhone or Android, which gives the user full control over flow settings, this can be conveniently carried out from any location.

The FG 100 is an up-front, low cost investment and as a simple add-on is fast and easy to install using standard irrigation wire. Its design includes a paddle wheel that sits in ceramic bearings and ensures durability. It is winter ready and does not need to be removed during the annual shutdown when using air to push water out of the system.

FloManager manages demand to maximise use of water and shorten watering times

Rainbird’s ESP-LXME 2 controller

Cutting

Sculptor Ella Fielding has an unusual way with wood as Jane McGowan discovers

Ella Fielding has carved quite a name for herself. Across the country her thoughtful artworks dot the landscape, lovingly handcrafted symbols of how to see the wood through the trees.

Chessington World of Adventures is a satisfied customer. So too are the Royal British Legion and the Woodland Trust. But it’s the implement involved in creation that sets Ella’s work apart. For her tool of choice is not a chisel, but a chainsaw that she wields with precision across a wide variety of trees.

“First and foremost I am a sculptor. It’s just that my primary craft is wood carving with a chainsaw,” she explains. A form of artistic expression upon which Ella stumbled by chance. Tasked with finding work experience during her final year at Camberwell Art School, she recalled a sculpture by a group called The Tree Pirates that she had admired on a visit to Glastonbury Festival with her family years before. The image had stayed with her ever since. Time, she decided, to try to make contact with the artists.

“Their workmanship and carving had really resonated with me, so I hunted them down and asked if I could hang out with them. I thought that I would just be able to watch them at work, but they encouraged me to have a go. I did, and I loved it at once. It’s so much fun.

“I used the technique to create the final pieces for my degree. So while everyone else was scrabbling around for studio space and getting stressed, I was out in the car park with my chainsaw. People on buses looked very confused as they went past.”

And while not everyone would associate fine art with power tools, Ella was instantly struck at just how sensitive and creative the chainsaw enabled her to be.

“Because you are making something so quickly, there is a direct conversation between your thought and your action. Using such a tool works well with my brain. I have found in the past that there are too many processes involved in the creation of art – you may have to sketch first, then paint, or fire, dry and frame.

But this form essentially involves two items. It is immediate and responsive. You can start your working day with a block of wood and a chainsaw and end it with a finished sculpture.”

For Ella, the craft has opened many wooden doors. Though she is now based in Surrey, her distinctive skills have taken her to all parts of the country, placing within her hands the power to evoke a thousand memories and moods.

Many of Ella’s commissions come via tree surgeons whose customers, hearing that an ancient or muchloved tree must come down, desire to create something precious from whatever is left or from an individual piece that can be saved.

“A tree brings such emotional attachment. It has grown in your space and been part of your life. Perhaps your children used to play in it, or it was part of the family garden that you associate with happy times. It’s not just about what is created: it’s also about what it is created from and why.

“I have a lot of people cry as the tree is taken away, but carving something from it gives that tree its next life journey, rather than just condemning it to the fire.”

A sense of connection is also key to Kings of the Wood, the Discovery Channel show in which Ella and other

“I’ll go wherever the tree takes me”

woodworkers create bespoke items for members of the public. Visitors to the New Forest workshop commission a gift for a friend, neighbour or relative whom they regard as a deserving recipient. A new series is scheduled for broadcast in the spring.

The show has the same warm vibe as The Repair Shop, as the artists labour to create a present that will resonate with giver and receiver alike.

“We all make the creation journey together,” says Ella. “That’s emotional for everyone involved, but it brings so much to the end piece.”

And whatever the story that lies behind a particular commission – whether televised or not – Ella’s work is nothing if not joyful. Some of her most celebrated Surrey sculptures are on view in Banstead Woods, where you will find a whole host of Narnia themed creations to surprise and delight.

“I was working on something else with a lovely lady called Helen West, Greenspaces Officer at Reigate & Banstead Council (in Surrey). Suddenly she said: ‘You know, I would love to have a wardrobe in the woods.’ I told her that I could do it, and we started to discuss other sculptures that could go with it, based on the CS Lewis stories.

“Soon I had funding for Lucy, Aslan and the White Witch. It was wonderful to bring another fun aspect to what was already a magical outdoor space.”

For private commissions, Ella takes great pains to create something that will suit the client’s life and surroundings. “I often ask them to send me pictures of their home or garden, or the place where the sculpture is going to sit. If I can see how the land lies, it enables me to make something that is just right, but which the client may not know that they want. It is always bespoke and personal, but not in an overt way. I just try to create

something that they can recognise and appreciate.”

Once created, the sculpture receives several coatings of wood protector to ensure long life.

“Basically, it’s like putting on sun cream,” laughs Ella. “The works need guarding from the elements, and I want them to look as good as they can for as long as they can.”

For Ella herself, working outside surrounded by nature – whatever the weather – is another huge perk of the job.

“I go wherever the tree takes me: woodland, people’s gardens, a tree surgeon’s yard. Often the wood is so big that it’s easier for me to go to the wood than for the wood to come to me.

“It’s an amazing way to work and very mindful – given the noise of the machine, I actually find it quite tranquil. I like to have music on, or Radio 4, which enables me to get in the zone.

“People think it’s quite a forceful, brutal job, but it isn’t. I think it is basically like using a chisel: you can either hit with all your might or you can chip away delicately with smaller blades. The chainsaw works in just the same way.”

Hardly surprising, therefore, that Ella has no plans to swap her saw for a gentler instrument any time soon. “No way! I loved this from the moment I started. It’s like I don’t have a proper job; I’ve never had to be a grown-up. I have accidentally stumbled across a method of working that I adore and which other people appreciate too. I will be eternally grateful for that.”

• Watch Ella in Kings of the Wood, on the Discovery Channel, later this year; ellafielding.com