Landscaping Matters Autumn 2025

Landscaping Matters

Landscaping Matters

It’s a job and a half

If there is one thing I’ve learned about landscape designers since Landscaping Matters was launched in 2022, it is that the collection of skills required to be a success is as wide as it is varied.

First of all you need a love and appreciation of nature and the trees, plants and bushes which come together to make lovely outdoor spaces. You have to be able to sell the idea of a garden to potential customers. Then there is the ability and vision to create something magical on paper or more likely nowadays through CAD programmes.

You have also to be able to project manage your own team on tight deadlines, as well as outside contractors and keep everything within budget. Of course you have to keep those clients, the ones who you sold the vision of what you would create, on side. Oh and there is probably the task of juggling a number of projects at any one time.

That’s not to mention the day-to-day running of a business with all the accountancy, personnel, health and safety issues which cannot be avoided in modern day society,

I’ve probably missed many of the other skills required, it is fair to say that landscape designers must be among the most able and multi-faceted of people out there.

Scott MacCallum EDITOR

BIGGA and GroundsFest announce strategic industry partnership

BIGGA, organisers of BTME, and GroundsFest have announced a new collaboration aimed at strengthening both events while bringing together professionals from across the grounds care, landscaping, and golf sectors.

The partnership will see BIGGA and GroundsFest working closely on joint initiatives throughout the year, including attending and supporting each other’s events, hosting tailored educational content, and working together on joint marketing campaigns.

At the heart of the collaboration is a shared desire to encourage crossover between both event communities - helping professionals discover the value that each show offers. It’s a fantastic opportunity for community-building and cross-sector engagement. From greenkeepers and grounds managers to landscapers and contractors, the partnership aims to unite the wider industry.

The complementary nature of the two events makes them natural partners: BTME is a long-established, much-loved winter event held in January in the scenic surroundings of Harrogate, while GroundsFest offers a vibrant, hands-on summer

experience where visitors can see live equipment demonstrations in action.

“We at BIGGA are hugely proud of our flagship event, BTME, and the positive impact it has, particularly on the golf greenkeeping industry on an annual basis and at a perfect time of the year to give turf managers a muchneeded boost, be that to their morale, their industry knowledge or their skill set,” said BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton.

“However it is our ambition to engage with our members and the wider industry far more than just once a year. GroundsFest provides us with a brilliant opportunity to do so at a different time of year and in a very different environment. We are looking forward to engaging with many greenkeepers at Stoneleigh Park this September and to working closely with GroundsFest on a number of initiatives to move our industry forward,” said Jim.

Speaking on the collaboration, Christopher Bassett, GroundsFest’s Event Director, said that the two

shows complement one another brilliantly - both in format and timing.

“BTME is a long-standing and special event, while GroundsFest delivers a dynamic, summer-based event where people can get hands-on with the latest kit. We’re proud to be working with BIGGA, a fantastic association, and we believe this collaboration will bring real value to the industry. We very much see this as a long- term partnership – action-driven and focused on delivering real benefits to the sectors we serve,” said Chris.

Outside of the two events, BIGGA and GroundsFest are also exploring further educational opportunities. BIGGA is widely recognised for its exceptional training and professional development programmes, and with the recent launch of the GroundsFest Academy, there is clear potential to co-develop training content that supports professionals across the entire industry – from golf greenkeeping to wider grounds and landscape management.

As both events continue to grow, this partnership sets the tone for a more collaborative future for everyone working in grounds care, landscaping, and golf.

BIGGA CEO Jim Croxton, centre, with GroundsFest’s Chris Bassett, left and Chris Bennett

Lawnmower racing and more at this year’s must-attend event

It is only the third ever edition but GroundsFest has already placed itself firmly at the heart of the grounds management industry. After a storming start in 2023 –storming being the appropriate word as that’s exactly what met the exhibitors and visitors at 9am on the opening day – the exhibition has grown in size at the same rate as it has grown in reputation.

The second edition built on the first with additional machinery demonstrations with Machinery Nation Live, offering head-to-head trials of top machinery and equipment brands. There was even a full fun fair-sized dodgems rink!

This third edition looks set to continue the upward trend with much more exhibition space, many more exhibitors and more to keep the burgeoning visitor numbers enthralled. I give you Lawnmower racing and the world’s leading Oasis tribute band Definitely Mightbe! Whatever did happen to the originals?

Stoneleigh on September 9-10 is definitely, not just might be, the perfect place to conduct business in a professional and convivial manner and letting your hair down at the unique festival experience which punctuates the two days.

I’m looking forward to it and I’m sure you are too. See you there.

– Scott MacCallum, Editor

See you at

Stoneleigh!

Who is GroundsFest for?

GroundsFest is the largest, annual, free must-attend event for grounds staff, greenkeepers, landscapers, gardeners, local authorities, estate managers and contractors.

Machinery Nation LIVE

It’s back – and bolder than ever. Machinery Nation LIVE returns to GroundsFest with high-energy machinery battles, jaw-dropping demos, and a whole lot of horsepower.

Watch as leading brands go head-to-head in challenges that push man and machine to the limit.

With three live shows daily at 10:00, 12:00 and 14:00, you won’t want to miss the noise, the action and the chance to win some incredible prizes. Get involved. Get loud. Get ready.

NEW! Lawn Mower Racing – The GroundsFest Cup in partnership with

Kramp UK

Things are about to get fast and very competitive. We’re proud to introduce one of our wildest new features: Lawn Mower Racing – The GroundsFest Cup. Taking place across both days of the show, this adrenaline-fuelled showdown – powered by the West Midlands Lawn Mower Racing Association – will see specially modified mowers rip around a custom-built track in pursuit of glory. Expect close corners, big personalities, and full-throttle fun as the UK’s best racers battle it out for the very first GroundsFest Cup.

on-site parking Stoneleigh Park has thousands of free on-site parking spaces. Head to car park 5 where you can park for free.

shuttle buses

Planning on staying for the festival? If so, make the most of the FREE shuttle buses which will be available outside of the festival area and will be making numerous trips to Leamington Spa and Kenilworth!

NEW! Innovation Awards – in partnership with Hort Week

Innovation deserves a spotlight – and the all-new Hort Week Innovation Awards are here to shine it. Celebrating groundbreaking products and technologies across the turf care, landscaping, and amenity sectors, these awards recognise the ideas shaping the future of the industry. With over 100 entries this year, the judges had their work cut out. Join us in the Hort Week Seminar Theatre (in the Landscape Zone) at 3pm on day one to see who takes home the top honours.

Free

Educational Seminars

Knowledge is power – and at GroundsFest 2025, it’s also free. Our CPD-accredited seminar programme brings together leading voices from across the industry to tackle the big topics, offer practical solutions, and inspire new ways of thinking. Whether you’re just starting out or have decades of experience, there’s something here for you. With multiple theatres and sessions across both days, there’s never been a better time to upskill.

Live Music Festival

When the show winds down, the good times begin. Join us from 4pm on day one for the GroundsFest

Live Music Festival

– your chance to kick back with great music, street food, and a drink in hand. Taking to the stage are Definitely Mightbe – the world’s best Oasis tribute band – and Elevate, an incredible live act guaranteed to get the crowd going. A live DJ keeps the energy high between sets and the bumper cars are back – and totally free. It’s the perfect way to end the day.

The Landscape Zone in partnership with BALI Fresh ideas start here. The Landscape Zone is your go-to hub for innovation in outdoor design, green infrastructure, and sustainable landscaping. Created for landscape architects, designers, contractors, and professionals working with natural spaces, this dedicated zone is packed with exhibitors showcasing futureforward products and solutions. Expect inspiration. Expect insight. Expect to leave buzzing with ideas for your next project.

Outdoor Demos

Get ready to get hands-on. GroundsFest 2025 brings machinery to life with the UK’s largest outdoor demo experience. From mowing and mulching to digging, lifting, cutting, and climbing – this is your chance to see equipment in action, in the conditions it was built for. There’s no better way to understand how a machine really performs than by putting it through its paces yourself. Whether you’re trialling kit or exploring new technologies, these demos offer the insight you need to make confident, informed choices.

Indoor Halls

Step inside and you will find that the indoor halls are packed with top-tier exhibitors, showcasing the latest innovations in landscaping and groundscare. From next-gen tools to time-saving tech, it’s all under one roof – including exclusive product launches, expert-led advice, and countless opportunities to connect, learn, and do business.

Whatever your role in the industry, you’ll find something worth talking about here.

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

AGROVISTA AMENITY AND XDC STAND RB380 AND RB381

GroundsFest 2025 visitors can expect a glimpse into the future of turf maintenance on stands RB380 and RB381, as Agrovista Amenity and XDC showcases two of the most advanced robotic solutions on the market – the RM21 Combo Mower and the Thor Robotic Mower. The RM21 Combo Mower, distributed exclusively by Agrovista Amenity in partnership with XDC, is a true multi-tasking marvel. Combining precision line marking and mowing in one fully autonomous unit, the RM21 stands out for its ease of use, versatility, and forward-thinking features.

Also on display will be Thor –a powerhouse robotic mower engineered for sports turf, golf courses, and large-scale green spaces. With a 730mm cutting width and the ability to tackle up to 9 acres per day, Thor brings together AI vision, dual-RTK GNSS, and LiDAR to deliver elite-level performance and total reliability.

AMAZONE STAND RB62

Amazone’s Profihopper range, now in striking green-andorange livery, offers unmatched performance, productivity, and exceptional versatility.

The Profihopper 1250, with a 1.25m cut and compact 730 l hopper, achieves up to 1,000 l of compacted grass capacity; the 1500 scales to 1.50 m and stores 1,600 l, thanks to the innovative Power Compactor auger conveyor.

Both models boast intelligent 4WDi all-wheel drive for pinpoint manoeuvrability and 0-turn steering. Their robust outfront mowing system ensures exceptional performance in both long and short grass, wet or dry, while the integrated collection system can easily double for leaf and litter removal. The high-lift discharge (2.1 m on the 1250, 2.5 m on the 1500) ensures swift, safe emptying – easily managed from the driver’s seat.

New for 2025: the BladeCut 1800 rotary mower deck now complements the PH 1500 via QuickLink. It delivers a clean, whisper-quiet 1.80 m cut with high-overlap blade geometry, anti-block grass flow with an adjustable cut height from 20 -110mm.

cut quality, achieved through precision-engineered decks and consistent blade speed, delivering a flawless finish every time.

The Summit-Pro 300 and 500 series raise the bar with impressive engine power, rapid ground speeds, and robust commercial-grade construction – giving operators the muscle to tackle large areas quickly and the resilience to perform season after season in the toughest conditions.

Alongside the Ariens range, AriensCo will also present the AS-Motor commercial line-up, including the highly anticipated Tahr 990RC. This remote-controlled powerhouse is capable of mowing safely on slopes of up to 50 degrees, making it ideal for extreme terrain and hard-to-access areas.

From steep-slope safety to high-speed precision cutting, AriensCo’s Groundsfest display will showcase solutions for every commercial mowing challenge –delivering power, comfort, and durability to keep professionals at the top of their game.

ASPEN FUEL STAND H50

AriensCo is set to make a strong impression at this year’s Groundsfest, with an impressive line-up of Ariens Zero Turn mowers – including the exciting debut of the new Summit-Pro 300 and 500 series. These latest models are purpose-built for commercial operators seeking exceptional productivity, operator comfort, and durability in all conditions.

Ariens Zero Turns are renowned for their premium

Aspen Fuel return to GroundsFest, putting the spotlight on petrol power that protects the professionals working closest to it. Known widely as the pioneers of alkylate petrol, Aspen has been transforming the working environment for landscape and groundcare operatives for over 40 years, changing the way we think about fuel to

prioritise clean performance and personal wellbeing.

Available in 2 and 4-stroke formulations, Aspen is 99% cleaner than regular petrol when it comes to the level of hazardous hydrocarbons. Almost completely odourless in operation, users of petrolpowered equipment are exposed to far fewer toxic emissions, making it a safer and more sustainable choice for maintenance teams working long hours or in enclosed environments.

Live demonstrations and expert advice will be available on the stand, giving attendees the chance to see and smell the Aspen difference for themselves. Details of trial opportunities can also be discussed, enabling workers and employers to discover the many benefits of switching to Aspen in their own working environments.

AVANT TECNO STAND OSA270

At GroundsFest 2025, Avant Tecno will be showcasing two major new product launches – the Avant e727 fully electric compact loader and the Leguan 265, the most advanced spider lift in the Leguan Lifts range.

But that’s not all – visitors will also have the chance to test their skills in the Avant National Pro Challenge, a high-energy operator competition with great prizes up for grabs.

The e727 compact loader is designed to meet the demands of modern construction, landscaping, agriculture, and equestrian applications. With a

ARIENSCO STAND RB80

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

27 kWh Avant OptiTemp battery, up to five and a half hours of operating time, and a 1400 kg lift capacity, this fully electric machine matches the power and speed of its diesel counterpart.

At the heart of the e727 is Avant’s new Autoshift system, which shifts between gears and optimises driveline efficiency for smoother operation and longer run times.

Also making a big impression is the Leguan 265, the fastest 27-metre spider lift in the world. It reaches its 26.5-metre working height in just one minute 35 seconds, offering a 13.6-metre outreach and 250 kg lift capacity.

Do you have what it takes to be crowned Avant’s top operator? The Avant National Pro Challenge returns with a purpose-built course designed to put your loader skills to the test.

It’s been an incredibly busy 12 months for the team BAGMA as they work to deliver brand new services and savings for the thousands of BAGMA members across the country.

In the last year BAGMA have launched a new Members Forum and online Jobs Hub, as well as providing continued support when it comes to advice and training.

On the subject of training, visitors to GroundsFest will be among the first to learn about the brand-new course titled ‘Safety Essentials for Technicians – Off-Highway Electric Vehicles & Electric Outdoor Power Equipment’. Developed especially for BAGMA, this oneday safety course is designed to highlight hazards, compliance and best practice for those working on or around electrically powered off-road machinery such as electric tractors, UTVs,

mowers, and telehandlers.

BAGMA have also been working closely with their varied portfolio of approved Service Providers to develop exclusive offers and savings on a range of services including dealer management software, finance solutions, utility contracts and more.

You can also learn more about BAGMA’s ‘Paperless Solution’. Working in conjunction with the UK’s paperless experts, Culverdocs, BAGMA are transforming the task of business administration with a new digital platform to streamline the recording of Handover & Installation paperwork.

CLEARWATER STAND OAS 251

At the heart of our exhibit is the ClearWater System, a self-sustainable, closedloop wash water recycling unit designed to meet the rigorous demands of grounds maintenance operations. This system captures, filters, and recycles wash water from vehicle and equipment wash off, significantly reducing water usage and eliminating harmful runoff into the environment.

Eco-Friendly: Recycles more than 90% of wash water, reducing water consumption and environmental impact; Compliant: Meets all UK environmental regulations for washdown areas; Cost-Effective: Cuts water bills and reduces the need for costly drainage infrastructure; Underground: Out of sight and avoids UV rays, reducing the chances of harmful bacteria’s, snd powerful with hoses kicking out up to 8 bar of pressure .

Also featured at our stand are our Chemical Storage Kiosks, purpose-built units designed to safely store

pesticides, herbicides, and other hazardous substances. These kiosks are constructed to meet COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations and are ideal for golf courses, sports facilities, and local authority depots.

Robust Construction: Weatherproof, and secure, finished in various style to suit the surroundings; Fully Bunded: Prevents leaks and protects the environment; Customisable Layouts: Tailored to your storage needs and site footprint and Internal lighting and ventilation

Join us on the stand to see live demonstrations, speak with our technical experts, and discover how ClearWater can help your organisation meet its environmental goals while improving operational efficiency.

DENNIS STAND 50

Dennis Mowers, part of the Howardson Group, invite visitors to their stand to see the latest development in stadium mowing.

Built on proven design principles and shaped by feedback from turf professionals, their new stadium finishing mower delivers the reliable performance and high-quality finish you’re used to, now available in a lighter, more agile package.

With a legacy spanning over a century, Dennis Mowers are used at some of the most iconic venues in world sport, as well as at grass-roots level – across football, rugby, cricket, and golf.

For the golf sector, highlights will include the Razor Ultra– a high-performance pedestrian mower delivering a superb cut on fine turf surfaces; the Simplex– a compact and efficient cylinder mower ideal for tees and surrounds, and the Dennis gang mower

In the football and rugby category, visitors can get up close with the popular Premier cylinder mower as well as the versatile G860 mower with interchangeable cassettes. Also on show will be the ES34R, a quiet and powerful electric rotary mower.

This year’s GroundsFest provides the perfect opportunity to see the Dennis E-Series, which feature low-noise, lowvibration and environmentally friendly battery technology.

For cricket grounds, Dennis will be displaying the batterypowered ES-510, known for its versatile cassette-based system, which allows grounds staff to switch between scarifying, brushing, verticutting, and mowing with ease. The ES-22U, which is ideal for delivering a flawless finish on wickets and the ES-760 for cricket squares and outfields.

DLF STAND 30

The DLF stand will showcase a wide range of sustainable solutions from the world’s largest grass seed breeder, featuring products from MM, Johnsons Sports, Masterline and Designer Seed brands. Alongside leading cultivars for sports and amenity turf, the stand will also display an array of colour with demonstration planters from the popular Pro Flora and Colour Boost wildflower ranges.

As we move into autumn renovations, a significant focus will be on the benefits of DLF’s 4turf tetraploid technology. This technology features larger seeds with improved genetic vigor, allowing for fast germination and establishment even as temperatures drop. 4turf exhibits enhanced tolerance to stresses such as cold, drought, and salt, along with superior

BAGMA STAND 39

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

resistance to diseases.

Another key feature will be wildflowers and their increasing significance in land and amenity turf management. These plants provide essential food and habitat for pollinators and wildlife. DLF’s Pro Flora native origin wildflower range consists of 17 different formulations that are continually are designed to enhance color, biodiversity, and interest across diverse environments.

DSV UK

29

Visitors to the stand can expect an exciting showcase as the company prepares tolaunch two brand-new perennial ryegrass cultivars: Flanell and Eurogala. These two high-performance varieties will be exclusively available in EuroGrass mixtures from 2026, and attendees will have the opportunity to view samples and learn about their standout characteristics during the show.

Flanell and Eurogala have already gained attention thanks to their impressive performance in the 2025 BSPB Turfgrass Seed Booklet, with Flanell ranking #2 in the prestigious S1 sports table – just behind Euromagic, another top DSV variety. Eurogala, meanwhile, sits just outside the top ten but stands out for its versatility across multiple turf categories, making it a promising all-rounder.

Strong genetic colour is one of the defining features of the new cultivars, with Flanell particularly noted for its dark summer greenness – a sought-after trait for stadiums and televised sports.

The EuroGrass mixtures have been carefully developed for a wide range of applications, including: EG PRO Rye Fairway, PRO Summer Sport, PRO Pitch and PRO Multi Sport.

ETESIA UK STAND OSA150

Etesia UK is returning to GroundsFest 2025 with a stand full of innovation, highperformance equipment – and some of its biggest ever show offers. Visitors to the stand can take advantage of exclusive GroundsFest-only discounts across the Etesia range, simply by booking a demo at the event.

At the forefront is the Hydro 124 range – a line-up of powerful, all-weather ride-on mowers that are now available with savings of over £8,000.

Etesia’s all-electric utility vehicle, the ET Lander is fast becoming a favourite for professionals who need performance without compromise. Compact, roadlegal and incredibly versatile, the ET Lander can carry up to 940kg, tow 750kg, and power tools on the move via its built-in 230v output.

An evolution of the popular model, the Hydro 100 III features a new high-performance Kawasaki engine, differential lock, larger fuel tank, and a high-capacity grass collector.

Compact yet powerful, the Hydro 80 is ideal for those looking to cover more ground in less time. With a 15HP Kawasaki engine, hydrostatic drive and the ability to cut long or short grass without clogging, it’s a true workhorse.

For walk-behind power, Etesia’s PRO 51X and PRO 53 mowers tick every box. Built for professional use on slopes and uneven terrain, they combine excellent cutting, collecting and mulching in one highoutput machine– all powered by reliable Kawasaki engines.

FOLEY STAND 46

Foley Company’s UK and Ireland distributor, ProSport UK Ltd, will be on stand 46 demonstrating the unrivalled benefits of relief grinding and the new floor level Foley 642 Quick Spin Reel Grinder.

The prototype of Foley’s new floor level 642 Quick Spin Reel Grinder was revealed earlier this year. Now this new revolutionary grinder is ready for the market and will be on display. Designed to accommodate the widest of mower cylinders the 642 is a simple roll-on roll-off solution to grinding, with the machine sitting at floor level.

It offers a fast, easy-operated option for providing a quick touch-up spin between regular relief grinding schedules, and is a solution for sharpening the extra wide, heavy mowers used on sports fields/pitches. The Foley 642 Quick-Spin features simple to use controls, counter balanced spin drive, patented front and rear clamping system for pedestrian mowers, and power rear positioning levers for cylinders.

ProSport UK Ltd Managing Director Ian Robson will run demonstrations throughout both days and be available to discuss any questions or requirements.

HUNTER GRINDERS STAND OSA170

Hunter Grinders, part of the Howardson Group, is returning to showcase its flagship machine – the enhanced Jupiter ATI ‘All in One’ Grinder.

Renowned for its precision and reliability, the Jupiter ATI is a fully automatic relief and spin grinder designed to restore cutting units to the highest manufacturer standards. It offers a comprehensive range of automated features to improve efficiency, consistency, and safety in every grind.

Built on a solid cast bed, the grinder uses heavyduty linear rails to ensure smooth movement and consistent results – accurate to within 0.05 mm.

With a 360-degree electric hoist and the capacity to grind both the top and front faces of bottom blades, the Jupiter ATI is equipped for even the most demanding tasks.

Fully programmable for both spin and relief grinding, the machine features automatic wheel head docking, cycle countdown, and intuitive controls to simplify complex grinding jobs.

ICL

STAND OSA480

ICL is once again exhibiting at GroundsFest, bringing practical solutions and expert advice to turf managers, grounds staff, landscapers, and contractors from across the industry. At the stand, you can explore our proven Sportsmaster and Landscaper Pro fertilisers, developed to deliver reliable, tailored nutrition across sports turf and amenity settings. Weed control will also be a key focus, with guidance on total weed management using Roundup ProVantage and Roundup ProActive, alongside selective solutions like Praxys and Trophy XL – ideal for tackling broad-leaved weeds. A key feature this year will be our professional spreader range. Designed for precision, durability, and ease of use, these

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

machines help turf professionals maximise application accuracy and product performance.

GroundsFest is also a great opportunity to speak directly with the ICL team. Our technical and commercial experts understand the day-to-day challenges of turf and landscape management and can provide support on product choice, application timing, and longterm turf care strategy.

KAR UK STAND 22

KAR UK is one of the UK’s leading distributors of professional irrigation and water management solutions – trusted by landscapers, contractors, sports turf professionals, and local authorities nationwide.

At this year’s GroundsFest, KAR UK will showcase an impressive line-up of intelligent solutions from Hunter, Amiad, Bermad, Kasco and Tricoflex – delivering everything from automated irrigation systems and weather-based controllers to advanced filtration, pumps, valves, durable pipework, hoses, and cutting-edge micro-irrigation technologies.

What sets KAR UK apart is its commitment to helping customers design and implement efficient, futureready irrigation systems.

From smart controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather data to energyefficient pumps and robust filtration systems, the products on display at GroundsFest represent the very best in water-saving technology. With sustainability and precision at the forefront, KAR UK is helping the industry adopt smarter, greener irrigation practices.

KRAMP STAND L80

Kramp, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of spare parts, will be attending GroundsFest for the first time this year. Visitors can talk with the Kramp team where a selection of products, expert advice, and exclusive offers await.

The Kramp stand’s standout feature will be its container display, offering a hands-on look at some of their solutions for construction and groundcare professionals. Key highlights include technical sprays, its range of LED lights and light bars, and the Kramp chainsaw chain range.

They will also have the Kramp Workshop Solutions display, a connected workshop storage system, which allows users to easily restock items by scanning a barcode using the Kramp app. It saves users time, and therefore money.

Visitors to the stand will have the opportunity to win £1,500 worth of the workshop racking. In addition, anyone who signs up for a Kramp account will be entered into a draw to win £1,000 of Kramp credit to spend across their extensive range of products.

At this year’s show, Kress will present a structured three-zone exhibition format designed to deliver value for a broad range of visitors.

Demo Zone – This area will allow attendees to test Kress products in a practical setting.

Features will include the “Blower Game 3.0” and food incentives such as Neapolitan pizza, aimed at encouraging participation and creating a memorable experience.

Innovation Zone – Live demonstrations of autonomous RTK technology will highlight Kress’s latest developments. An elevated rooftop viewing platform will give visitors a clear view of equipment performance, and technical presentations will be available to address detailed questions.

Recharge Zone – Designed as a comfortable meeting space, this area will offer barista coffee, seating, and an anamorphic LED wall. The aim is to provide an environment for informal discussions and networking.

The layout reflects how many commercial landscapers approach procurement–by assessing immediate performance, future potential, and supplier relationships.

LANTRA STAND 47

Lantra is excited to return as an exhibitor this year, where we will showcase our latest training and qualifications designed to support professionals across the landscaping and grounds maintenance industry.

With a dynamic mix of both indoors and outdoor activities and demonstrations, the event provides great opportunities to network and bring together likeminded industry professionals, in addition to meeting those interested in pursuing a career in the industry.

On the stand, Lantra will be promoting its Certificates of Competence in the safe operation of Landscape Tools and Mowers, plus the recently updated Safe Use of Pesticides Suite.

We’re proud to announce

that we’ll be launching our highly anticipated Integrated Weed Management Awareness course at the event, developed in partnership with Kersten UK.

Furthermore, we’ll also be conducting an on-stand survey to gather feedback on the proposed Level 3 Award in Pitch Inspection.

Just across the way, we’ll be sponsoring the seminar theatre, leading a discussion session.

MAJOR EQUIPMENT STAND OSA460

Major Equipment will be showcasing a selection of their professional tractormounted roller mowers and a new 1.53m flail collector.

Making its debut is the Major MJTDR-490 TriDeck Roller Mower. With a 4.9m cutting width, precision engineering and independently operated wings, it delivers superior cutting on undulating terrain, sports fields and parks.

Major will be launching their MJ29-153-HL Flail Collector at this year’s event. This 1.53m machine cuts and collects in one pass, with a 2m tipping height for easy emptying. It is ideal for collecting autumn leaves or in wildflower meadows and ensures a clean, tidy finish.

The MJ65-300 CS Pro will also be at the Major stand. This mower is purpose-built for contractors and local authorities requiring a wide cut with a flawless finish, with a low HP requirement. Its 3m working width and robust build make it ideal for wide-area maintenance.

Completing the line-up is the MJ71-400 Swift Roller Mower. This machine is galvanised to resist corrosion and equipped with a heavy-duty gearbox driveline for consistent mowing in challenging conditions.

The Major team will be on hand to discuss your needs and

KRESS STANDS RB290, OSA 130, 36

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

help identify the most suitable mowing solution for your specific application. Visit www. major-equipment.com for more information.

MANSFIELD SAND STAND OSA260

Make your way to the Mansfield Sand stand to explore the latest in professional sand-based solutions.

With a heritage spanning over 180 years, Mansfield Sand remains at the forefront of silica sand innovation. Their trusted range supports elite stadiums, top-level training grounds, championship golf courses, and high-performance equestrian venues across the UK.

At this year’s event, their team of specialists will be on hand to showcase how their products can strengthen, support, and transform natural sports surfaces. Key solutions on display will include: Reinforced Rootzones; Fibre Reinforced Rootzone; Fibrelastic Rootzone; Sand Soil Rootzones and Mansil 40 Silica Sand; Sand Compost Rootzones; Top Dressing.

Mansil Silica Sand Sports Range is extracted from the Two Oaks Quarry in Mansfield, the Mansil range supports a wide variety of surfaces – from golf courses and bowling greens to winter sports pitches and amenity areas.

ORIGIN AMENITY SOLUTIONS

STANDS RB140 AND HALL 2 20

solutions, digital technology and line marking innovation.

Visitors can expect to see OAS’s comprehensive range of products and services, aimed at the fine turf, sports and grounds care sectors. With the largest dedicated team and unrivalled product portfolio.

Outside OAS will display a wide selection of line marking machinery, from pedestrian spray markers to the latest GPS-guided robotic systems. The popular TinyLineMarker robots will be on show with a technical team to explain how the technology is transforming the speed and accuracy of pitch marking.

On display will be the marketleading IMPACT and Duraline paint ranges. Both are designed to deliver maximum results, and professionals trust these high-performance paints for their strong coverage, vibrancy, and ease of application.

Also featured will be the latest in grounds management software. OAS will demonstrate their WeatherStation, TurfKeeper, and MachineKeeper platforms, which help grounds teams make data-led decisions, manage resources efficiently, and improve surface performance all year round. Additionally, the OAS team will be profiling its partnership with Rain Bird irrigation.

Inside the spotlight turns to turf care inputs. The OAS technical team will showcase their extensive range of plant protection products, fertilisers, and professional grass seed, offering expert guidance on improving turf health, root development, and resilience under stress.

A competition will be running across both stands throughout the event. All visitors are invited to visit the OAS stand for a chance to win.

PELLENC STAND OSA150

Pellenc is back for GroundsFest 2025 – and this year, they’re taking things up a gear with a brand-new dedicated demonstration area. Now in its third appearance at the show, Pellenc will once again showcase its market-leading batterypowered equipment, with live demos giving visitors the chance to experience performance and handling first-hand.

Known for its innovation in lithium-ion battery technology, Pellenc continues to lead the way in zero-emission grounds maintenance solutions. The range includes powerful, professional-grade tools that often outperform petrol alternatives – delivering reliability, comfort, and reduced environmental impact.

Visitors can expect to see a wide selection of equipment in action, including: Chainsaws; Pole saws; Hedge cutters; Strimmers and brushcutters; Blowers AND Mowers

Making its GroundsFest debut, the new Pellenc Essential line will also be on display – offering a practical and cost-effective solution for professionals maintaining green and urban spaces. These on-board battery tools are designed to be lightweight, efficient, and accessible, without compromising on performance.

The new line-up includes: Helion Essential hedge trimmer; Excelion Essential brush cutters;. Airion Essential blower and ULiB 200E and 400E batteries.

PRICE TURFCARE STAND RB50

Price Turfcare, Ventrac distributor for the UK & Ireland will be demonstrating, live, the amazing 30 degree slope capabilities of the Ventrac 4520 compact tractor. Their specifically designed exhibition vehicle has multiple slopes so you can see for yourself what the Ventrac can do.

Since Ventrac’s introduction into the UK, hundreds of customers have adopted it to solve labour intensive vegetation management on steep slopes. Additionally some are rethinking turf area maintenance by replacing mower only machinery with this multi season workhorse. Once adopted, the Ventrac 4520 can then complete other grounds maintenance tasks that would usually necessitate the purchase of hire of specialist machines. Tasks such as gravel and hard surface pathway maintenance, stump grinding, trenching, seeding and materials handling to name but a few.

REDEXIM STAND OSA230

Following an overwhelmingly positive response at last year’s event, Redexim is heading back to GroundsFest 2025 –and this time, they’re bringing fresh innovations that promise to create excitement.

showcase the latest in turf

Visitors to the stand can expect to see a wide selection of industry-leading products, from proven performers to brand-new launches that will be revealed exclusively at the show.

Origin Amenity Solutions is returning to GroundsFest to

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

While full details are still under wraps, Redexim has confirmed that there will be new additions to some of its popular existing product lines – offering exciting advancements in sweeping, scarifying and aeration. Whether you’re working on fine turf, sports surfaces or hard-wearing grounds, there’s something in the range that could transform your maintenance routine.

As always, Redexim’s team of product experts will be on hand to talk through the machinery, help match the right kit to your site, and offer practical advice based on years of experience in the field

Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to see what’s new – and what’s next – from one of the most trusted names in turf care.

SISIS STAND OSA 170

SISIS, part of the Howardson Group, is gearing up for a major presence at GroundsFest 2025, where it will be exhibiting outdoors in the Centre Circle.

With a proud heritage in British manufacturing and a reputation for quality, performance and innovation, SISIS continues to be one of the most respected brands in the turf preparation and maintenance industry.

Renowned for producing robust, reliable machinery, SISIS offers solutions for grounds professionals working in football, rugby, golf, cricket, and municipal spaces.

On display will be key machines from across the SISIS portfolio. For golf and cricket maintenance, visitors can explore machines such as the Veemo HD, a powerful tractor-mounted scarifier ideal for intensive thatch removal, and the Rotorake TM1000, a highly effective scarifier.

Other popular tractor mounted tools like the Multitiner and Maxislit will also be showcased.

For sports turf professionals maintaining football and rugby pitches, SISIS will be bringing the Quadraplay 1.8m multiple-purpose maintenance system, Javelin Aer-aid for targeted aeration with air injection, and the Variseeder, designed for accurate seed distribution across large areas.

Those looking for versatile brushing and grooming solutions can check out the Flexibrush and Twinplay system.

Cricket and golf grounds staff will be interested in the Rotorake 600HD heavy-duty scarifier.

A wide range of hand tools and accessories will also be on display including the Trulute, Aerdrain fork, Drag mats and brushes, Combirake, and Bray hand tools – perfect for pitch preparation and fine finishing touches.

SMITHCO STAND RB215

Smithco will be presenting a full range of advanced golf course maintenance equipment designed for precision, performance, and environmental responsibility.

The Spray Star series includes four self-propelled, GPS-guided sprayers with multiple control features such as application rate adjustment, turn compensation pulse, and an industry-leading 25 cm nozzle spacing – offering up to 100% greater accuracy than other systems on the market.

Tournament greens rollers from Smithco help deliver fast, consistent, and true putting surfaces. With rolling widths from 91 cm to 1.78 metres, these machines are built for maximum efficiency across different course conditions.

Also featured is the Sand Star 48V Electric bunker rake, part of Smithco’s commitment to sustainable technology. Quiet and emissions-free, it’s supported by a range of 50 different attachments.

STM STAND RB30

STM are happy to be among the many machinery suppliers returning to the show this year. We are bringing SCAG and RoboFlail products for heavy duty grasscutting and debris clearance, keen to show them off to Councils, Contractors and estates. These are machines designed to repay the investor with capability for being used all day, every day and there’s over 30 years of manufacturing experience at SCAG in the US and over 30 years involvement with them and STM Co Ltd in the UK. There’s a new machine added to the range, too. The “Jackal” mini skid-steer unit. All machines are available through the STM dealership network.

STIGA STAND OSA790

STIGA returns to GroundsFest 2025 with a strong focus on professional innovation, unveiling the new STIGA Pro Range – a lineup designed specifically for turf professionals and grounds care specialists. Developed in-house by STIGA engineers, this advanced range features a modular battery system that is removable, portable, and swappable,

delivering unlimited working capacity with minimal downtime.

Built for reliability in demanding environments, the Pro Range represents a significant step forward in sustainable turf management, offering the performance of petrol with the benefits of low-noise, low-emission battery technology.

Also debuting is a new 2026 battery ride-on range for large gardens, bringing STIGA’s professional-grade engineering to the domestic sector. This system maintains the same modular battery platform, making it simple, smart, and scalable for users with extensive grounds to maintain.

Visitors can test drive the new STIGA Battery Park front mower and a selection of ride-on models within a dedicated, supervised area.

Additional on-stand activities include the Robot Installation Challenge, with a daily prize of an autonomous STIGA mower, and our Wheel of Fortune giveaway.

SUSTANE

STAND 44

World leaders in organic and natural-base plant nutrition products, Suståne, will be making their GroundsFest debut this year.

Whether you’re a landscaper, greenkeeper, agronomist or sports turf manager, a stop at stand 44 will be a must to discover more about products from their professional range including Suståne 4-6-4 Granular and Suståne 1-1-1 Soil ReGen.

Another product of note is Suståne 1-1-1 Soil ReGen. Soil ReGen is a structural conditioner that amends the soil to reduce compaction and increase water, air and nutrient filtration rates. Proven to improve permeability

GROUNDSFEST

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

and establishment of seedlings in existing soils, ReGen® also comes into its own during construction and reclamation projects, to supply organicrich nutrients to disturbed or depleted ground. It is also a useful tool in the armoury of landscapers and grounds professionals if periods of wet weather are on the cards.

To find out about how Suståne can support your grow-in’s, renovations or in-season maintenance and recovery, be sure to speak with the technical team, on hand in the indoor exhibition area across the two days.

TEAM SPRAYERS STAND RB350

Earlier this year, Team Sprayers unveiled major upgrades to their renowned Cub, Scout, Vixen SP Pro, and Club sprayers – all of which will be showcased at this year’s Groundsfest.

Developed in close collaboration with trusted users, these enhancements build on the proven performance of each model, making them even more intuitive, efficient, and operator-friendly.

The updated Cub, Scout and Vixen models now feature a compact design for effortless transport and storage, an innovative plumbing system that eliminates chemical waste, a redesigned lid for easier filling, and a new foldable handle and boom for streamlined setup and use.

The Club tractor-mounted sprayer has been re-engineered with a compact tank that dramatically improves rear visibility from the cab. The revised tank chassis supports bolt-on accessories like a foam marker or hose reel, allowing users to tackle multiple tasks simultaneously.

AND HAYTER

Toro and Hayter are returning to GroundsFest 2025 with a bold statement: We’re all in! Following a successful appearance last year, we’ve doubled our stand space to showcase the equipment that matters most to landscape contractors and grounds professionals.

This year’s display features a focused range of practical, high-performance solutions–from commercial zero-turns and out-front rotaries to walk-behind mowers and battery-powered innovations.

Live demonstrations will give visitors the chance to see equipment in action, compare models side by side, and speak directly with our product experts.

Toro and Hayter’s presence at GroundsFest reflects our shared commitment to supporting the industry with

reliable, sustainable equipment built to last. We’re proud to collaborate with GroundsFest to create an experience that’s hands-on, informative, and tailored to professionals who take turf care seriously

TRIMAX STAND RB9

Trimax is excited to return to GroundsFest this year with its range of commercial mowing solutions – trusted by operators worldwide. We’ll have several mowers on display, including: Pegasus S5: The market-leading wide-area mower since 2001. The Series 5 adds maintenance-free features such as the Trimax Titan roller bearing system, QuikLift as standard, and a more robust transport system. Available in 4.9 m, 6.1 m, and 7.2 m widths. ProCut S5:

A versatile roller mower

with over 30 years of trusted performance. Series 5 delivers a premium cut with zero daily maintenance. Spindles, roller bearings, and auto-belt tensioning are all maintenancefree. Available in four cutting widths from 1.7 m to 2.9 m.

Both the Pegasus S5 and ProCut S5 are also available as single roller variants – ideal for tackling long grass in tough commercial environments.

Striker:

A low-maintenance, multispindled rotary mower for compact tractors—perfect for schools, estates, and grassroots sports clubs.

Ezeemow FX:

Compact, durable, and now even more affordable! The Ezeemow flail mower mulches branches up to 25 mm while delivering a clean finish.

With so much on show, be sure to visit us at Stand RB9. Learn more at www.trimaxmowers.co.uk

TORO

STANDS OSA640 AND OSA760

Exhibitors to watch at GroundsFest

TURF TANK

STAND OSA 481

Turf Tank, a leading name in robotic line marking solutions, is proud to announce the release of its latest software update at the show. Designed to empower UK grounds teams to achieve more with less, the enhanced Turf Tank robot now boasts new features that extend its versatility from sports pitches to parking lots, and everywhere in between. Already trusted by over 5,000 organisations worldwide, Turf Tank’s autonomous robots have transformed the way schools, clubs, and professional venues mark their grounds Logo Bundles for Pro Subscribers: Car Park Marking; Enhanced TightSpace Navigation and Quick Settings for Football Pitches: These enhancements reinforce Turf Tank’s commitment to accurate, consistent, and efficient

line marking – helping grounds teams save time and focus on maintaining first-class playing surfaces. Curious to see the robot in action? Visit the Turf Tank stand at Groundsfest 2025 for a hands-on demonstration. Select your preferred layout and watch as the Turf Tank robot brings it to life – no strings or stencils required. For those unable to attend, request a demo at your site by visiting https://turftank. com/en/ or contacting your local Turf Tank representative:

WAYROBO’S

STAND OSA 500

We are pleased to invite you to visit us during the show where we will unveil our latest innovation in golf course and sports turf maintenance – the fully autonomous reel mower. Engineered for precision, productivity, and seamless integration, our autonomous reel mower features a

powerful “Dual-Brain” AI System. This advanced system allows the mower to avoid obstacles, and ensures mowing smarter and safer.

One of the key highlights is its automated grass detection and emptying function. The mower can detect when the collection box is full and autonomously drive to the designated dumping station to unload, then return to work – all without human intervention.

At the show, we will be performing live demonstrations of the mower in action. This is a great opportunity to experience the performance, intelligence, and efficiency of our newest model up close.

WIEDENMANN UK STAND RB215

Wiedenmann UK makes its first appearance at GroundsFest, showcasing its acclaimed Terra Spike deep aerators. Renowned for their outstanding work

rate, smooth operation, and precision finish, the Terra Spike range continues to set the standard in turf care innovation. Two standout models will feature prominently: the XP, offering tine depths of up to 400 mm for extra penetration, and the GXi8 XD, engineered for maximum accessibility and versatility. With tool-free adjustments for both working depth and heave, these machines are designed to boost productivity and minimise downtime.

In addition to aerators, Wiedenmann will also present its range of high-performance turf care tools. The Super 500 operates as a sweeper, collector, flail mower, and more – offering unmatched versatility. The Terra Rake, available in up to five working widths, enables high-speed scarifying with ease. Meanwhile, the Whisper Twister and Mega Twister blowers combine powerful airflow and rotation with impressively low noise levels, making them ideal for noisesensitive environments.

List of Exhibitors

Honda UK OSA10

UK L95

Chandlers (MF) Ltd H40

Channelled Atlantic L100

Chappell Enterprises UK 52 Cherry Products Limited S2 Chew Valley Trees L142 ClearWater OSA251

Clover Grow L48

CMC Lift UK C1

CNF Mini Dumpers H35 Cobra Garden OSA580

CONTRACT PLANT RB261

Country Supplies UK L89

CQ L37

CRAMER OSA600

Crowders Nurseries/Salix/British Flora L148

Cub Cadet OSA190

D&S Factors RB240

Danarm Machinery Limited OSA620

David Ogilvie Engineering Ltd L93

Davis Trackhire RB186

DAX Industries RB320

Dennis 50

DEWALT 33

DEWALT OSA190

DJB Machinery Ltd OSA930

DLF Seeds Ltd 30

DSV UK - EUROGRASS 29

Dual Pumps Limited 48

Earlsmere Ltd 27

Easy Petrol Post Driver OSA50

Eco Green Composting 45

EcoClipper RB309

EGO OSA630

Elveden Instant Hedge L125

Etesia UK OSA150

Eutrema L54

Everedge OSA250

Evopos UK Ltd 43

Ezyasset & Ezytreev L17

Fargro 41

Farol Ltd OSA520

Fendt L72

FENTEX LTD L97

Fentons of Bourne Ltd H75

FFAIR 1234

FGM Claymore RB360

Firestorm Heaters RB2

Fletcher Stewart L20

Foley Company 46

Forestry Journal L16

Först S1 FORZA 38

Fullbrook Nursery L140

Garden Machines Ltd OSA680

Gaviota UK L7

GBR Technology Ltd 1

GeoGrow Ltd 34

George Browns OSA100

Geoworks L130

Global Machinery Solutions Ltd H10

GRASS GAINS L10

Grasshopper Turf Equipment OSA110

Green Plant UK Ltd OSA461

GreenBest Ltd 28

Greener Grounds Garden and Sports Turf Maintenance L44

GroundsCare Products 26

Groundsman Industries Ltd 28A

Hahn Plastics Ltd L132

Handy RB430

Hansa Products UK Ltd OSA510

Harper Adams University L28

Harrowden L64

Hazlewood Trailers H30

Herbst Machinery Ltd H5

Highland Clothing 12

Hillier L141

Holcim L70

Hopespare Limited 31

HortWeek L8

Hozelock Exel: Berthoud & Cooper Pegler Sprayers L42

Huck Play RB30

Husqvarna OSA800

Hustler Turf Equipment OSA120

Hydro App Systems Ltd 23 ICL OSA480

Impulse Plants L137

J. A. Jones & Sons Ltd L129

James Coles and Sons Nurseries L150

Japanese Knotweed Ltd & Environment Controls 35

KAR UK Ltd 22

Kersten Site Maintenance Equipment H45

Kingdom Technologies OSA51

Kirogn OSA240

Kramp UK Ltd L80

Kress RB290

Kress OSA130 Kress 36

Landquip Ltd S6

Landscape & Urban Design L75 LANTRA 47 LAPU 49

LCVT Ltd RB285

Lister Wilder Hire OSA80

Lubbe & Sons (Bulbs) Ltd L144

Lumena Lights L154

Major Equipment Ltd OSA460

Makita UK Ltd RB120

Mammotion RB130

Mansfield Sand OSA260

Martin Lishman Ltd OSA194

METOS UK 25

Michelin Tyre

HARD AND SOFT LANDSCAPING

Hard and soft landscaping

– cultivating excellence one field at a time CutCrew

In an industry where precision, timing, and resilience are everything, CutCrew has become a standout leader in professional grounds care. With a reputation built on reliability, integrity, and a whole lot of heart, the team consistently delivers exceptional results for clients large and small, rain or shine. We sat down with Jack, founder of CutCrew, to talk about challenges, technology, and the everyday wins that define their work.

WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BIGGEST OPERATIONAL CHALLENGE, AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?

Our biggest operational challenge is always Mother Nature, either too much rain or not enough. But we’ve built strong nutrition and action plans to keep our grounds in top shape regardless of the conditions. The key is doing the right thing at the right time and always being ready to act.

HOW DO YOU MANAGE TEAM LOGISTICS AND ENSURE CONSISTENT QUALITY ACROSS JOBS?

We’re lucky, our team takes great pride in their work, so we don’t need to constantly check quality. That said, every visit ends with a walk-round from a trained team leader who knows the customer’s scope of work inside and out. Logistics are a constant juggle, we stay flexible. Weather and time constraints mean we often shift how and when we work to leave the least disruption possible to our clients’ businesses and facilities.

WHAT ROLE HAS TECHNOLOGY PLAYED IN IMPROVING HOW YOUR BUSINESS RUNS?

A massive one. All our mowers, tractors, and markers are GPS-ready. It allows us to maintain consistent quality, track exactly what’s been done, and reduce fatigue for our staff. It also saves our clients money, we eliminate guesswork when it comes to acreage and materials.

WHAT DO CLIENTS VALUE MOST ABOUT WORKING WITH YOU?

Our readiness to help. We’re often called in for last minute or emergency jobs, and if we can help, we will. Whether a client has a large or small budget, we treat every job with the same care. We will move the earth if we have to.

CAN YOU SHARE A MOMENT WHERE YOUR TEAM WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND FOR A CLIENT?

Honestly, there are too many to list, it’s part of what we do. But a recent one stands out. A client who runs a café on their site had their fridge break down the day before a major event. No hesitation, we dropped off one of ours for them to borrow, free of charge. We care that our customers are winning!

HOW DO YOU BUILD TRUST AND LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS WITH CUSTOMERS?

Being open and honest. Just because a client has a large budget doesn’t mean we want them to use it all. We’re always looking to make their scopes more

efficient with honest feedback and advice. Being reliable and always available goes a long way, too.

WHAT ARE SOME RECENT WINS OR MILESTONES YOU’RE PROUD OF?

One of the best ones recently was supporting the Bedfordshire FA County Cup Finals. We helped make back to back games happen over three consecutive weekends - making sure the pitches were safe and top quality. Seeing what those games meant to the youth teams really brought home the impact of what we do.

WHAT DO YOU WANT THE COMPANY TO BE KNOWN FOR?

Going above and beyond. Producing high-quality work with integrity and always with a smile.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING IN GROUNDS CARE TODAY?

Don’t overthink it. If it feels right, it probably is. Stand by your pricing and your calculations, it’s your business, not anyone else’s. People work with people. Build relationships, maintain them, and the rest will follow. And remember, the quality you walk past is the quality you accept. From emergency support to elitelevel care, CutCrew is redefining what it means to be in the business of grounds maintenance. And with Jack leading from the front, one thing’s for sure, when clients need them most, they’ll move the earth if they have to. n www.cutcrew.co.uk

F.H. Brundle introduces new outdoor living subframe

F.H. Brundle has released a new outdoor framing solution, Outdure QwickBuild, in the UK after its success in Australia, New Zealand and the United States.

The rot-proof aluminium subframe is engineered for multiple heights, uneven ground conditions and design challenges.

Suitable for composite boards, timber boards, tiles, artificial grass and aluminium decking, it is also designed for quick installs with compatible accessories such as joists and fixings.

F.H. Brundle also stocks fencing, balustrade, hand railing, wrought iron components, gates and gate hardware.

Avande Intelligent Garden wins gold

The Avanade Intelligent Garden, designed by leading UK landscape designer Tom Massey and architect Je Ahn, has been awarded a Gold medal at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

Created in partnership with Avanade and Microsoft, the garden explores how nature and technology can work in harmony to address one of the most pressing challenges facing urban green infrastructure: the survival and long-term health of city trees.

Using Microsoft’s pioneering technology, Avanade has developed a holistic approach to understanding the conditions that affect tree vitality, enabling more informed and responsive care. At the heart of the concept is TreeTalk–an innovative AI tool that enables two-way communication between gardeners and trees, allowing gardeners to ask questions such as “How are you feeling?” or “What do you need?” to help guide horticultural care. Using a network of sensors, the system gathers real-time data on soil health, air quality, and weather conditions to enable responses, while trees can also be configured to send alerts when under stress. Following its debut at Chelsea,

the garden – which also won the award for Best Construction –will be permanently relocated to Mayfield Park in Manchester, where the technology will be tested in a real urban setting.

On receiving the medal Tom Massey said: “Winning Gold at Chelsea is a real honour, and a reflection of the brilliant collaboration behind this project. The garden was designed to ask questions – about the future of our urban trees, the role technology might play in supporting nature, and how we look after our shared green spaces. I’m proud of what we’ve made together, and grateful to have had the chance to bring this idea to life at RHS Chelsea.”

Annette Giardina, Chief Innovation & Sustainability Officer at Avanade UK, said:

“At Avanade, we believe in the power of Microsoft technology to create meaningful, sustainable change, and The Avanade Intelligent Garden is a perfect example of that. This project is about blending innovation with nature to solve real-world challenges in urban environments. We are thrilled to see our collaboration with Tom Massey and Je Ahn recognised at such a

prestigious event, and we look forward to further developing this prototype and realising how the garden’s technology can go on to support the long-term health and vitality of urban trees.”

As part of the royal visit on Monday afternoon, Avanade welcomed HM The King onto the garden where he spoke to Tom and Je about the potential of the garden’s technology to improve the health of trees in cities, reflecting the King’s long-standing passion for the environment and his well-known belief in the importance of listening to nature.

After the show, the garden will be permanently relocated to Mayfield Park in Manchester, where it will form part of a major extension to the city’s awardwinning green space designed by Studio Egret West. There, the technology will be tested in a live urban setting–offering a bold, real-world model for how cities can better support and sustain their green infrastructure.

Speaking about the relocation Tom Massey said: “What’s exciting about this garden is that it doesn’t end here. Moving it to Mayfield Park takes it out of the show garden context and into the real world. We’ll be able to test and evolve the concept in a live urban setting, and explore how technology might help us care for nature in responsive and resource-efficient ways –supporting healthier public spaces that benefit both people and wildlife, and that can adapt as our climate continues to change.”

Danny Williams, Estates Manager at Mayfield Park said: “We’re absolutely delighted to see the Avanade Intelligent Garden receive a Gold medal at RHS Chelsea. This garden reflects the values at the heart of Mayfield – putting nature, people and long-term resilience first – and we’re incredibly proud to be its future home.”

How Wallace Contracts boosted efficiency, safety and sustainability with Raymo mowers

When Wallace Contracts Northern Ireland needed a safer, more efficient way to manage sloped and high-maintenance sites, they turned to the Raymo electric remote-controlled mower from ISEKI UK & Ireland.

What began as a solution for mowing banks has rapidly evolved into a key part of their day-to-day operations. It delivers significant savings in time, fuel, and transport while boosting safety and operator satisfaction.

“We started looking because we had a few banks that needed to be done,” explains Managing Director Graeme Wallace. “They were awkward, sloped sites where traditional kit wasn’t practical. But once we got the Raymo, we were delighted with it.”

The company, which operates in landscaping, building maintenance, insurance repairs, and winter maintenance, originally purchased one Raymo in 2023. Within a year, it had four in the fleet and is already planning to invest in more.

“We were able to do away with some of our bigger mowers that needed trailers,” Graeme

said. “The Raymo fits in the back of a van, so there’s no trailer, ramp or hassle, and that alone saves time on every job.

“We’re getting an extra site done a day, just because it’s quicker to load, unload and move around, and when we’re at a job, the Raymo is efficient and has an excellent cut quality. All of that is a major gain for us.”

Wallace Contracts now fits its vans with onboard chargers, allowing machines to be topped up between sites.

With a four to five hour battery life, the Raymo easily handles a full working day when recharged on the move.

Adding to the versatility are the two cutting decks. The team uses the 42-inch Flex deck for fine mulching, ideal for commercial areas, and the 48-inch Craft deck for heavier, less frequently cut grass. Depending on the job, they carry both in the van and swap as needed.

“You might be at a church one hour and a telecoms site the next, where the grass is a foot and a half high,” Graeme explains. “Being able to switch decks so quickly makes a big difference.”

The lightweight electric mower also enables work in soft or wet ground conditions, where heavier diesel machines would typically have to wait. “If it’s too wet to take a tractor onto a football pitch, slope or bank, we’ll send the Raymo in first,” Graeme says.

“It doesn’t sink or damage the turf, and that’s opened up more flexibility in how we schedule jobs.”

Sticking to the schedule is crucial to their operation, and reliable support from their local dealer, Cyril Johnston, is a significant factor for Graeme.

“Back-up is crucial to any operation,” Graeme explains. “You buy equipment based on how good the dealer and their back-up service are. With Cyril Johnston, we’re working with a company that really looks after us and acts quickly, which is why we have such a strong working relationship”

With its combination of performance, efficiency, and environmental benefits, supported by reliable local service from Cyril Johnston, the Raymo is helping the business work smarter across every site.

HARD AND SOFT LANDSCAPING

Breedon donates products to inclusive RHS sensory garden

Breedon Group plc has been announced as a key supplier for a new sensory-rich garden set to debut at the RHS Flower Show at Wentworth Woodhouse.

The Group is donating flagship products to the project, which is a collaboration with the RNIB, including Breedon Golden Amber self-binding gravel, the only material of its kind to hold a Royal Warrant, and Welsh Slate hard landscaping materials from the famous Penrhyn Quarry – known for its strength, natural texture and 3,000-yearold history of craftsmanship. Designed and worked on by renowned horticulturalist Paul Hervey-Brookes and RHS landscaper Gareth Wilson, the RNIB Legacy Garden invites people without visual impairments to experience the world through the eyes of someone with sight loss. Described as “thought-provoking and challenging” by the design team, it uses texture, form, sound and scent to create an immersive and emotional journey. It also serves to highlight the positive impact that legacy gifts can have on the RNIB’s work.

Leicestershire-based Breedon has a long history of supplying decorative products to sites across the UK, from stately homes, castles and royal residences to public spaces, housing developments, private residences and gardens.

Barry O’Connor, General Manager – Welsh Slate, Special Aggregates & Circular Economy at Breedon, said: “We’re proud to see our products playing a role in such an important and thoughtful design for this project.

“Creating a space that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those with a visual impairment, shows how materials shape not just how gardens look, but how they feel and function.”

To help bring the garden to life, the Group is supplying a wide range of hard landscaping materials –from Breedon Golden Amber Gravel to a broad selection of Welsh Slate products. Those include slate crust, cobbles, fencing, decorative gravel, slate dust, and MOT Type 1 aggregate. A centrepiece hand-cut Welsh Slate bench is also being donated as a lasting feature of reflection and comfort.

Breedon Golden Amber Gravel’s smooth yet sturdy surface makes it ideal for wheelchair users and buggies, while Welsh Slate brings natural tonal variation and tactile character to the space – all the while meeting the high-performance demands of a public show environment.

The build reflects the importance of considering sensory accessibility at every stage of landscape design – from gradients and layout to material choice and user interaction. It also supports Breedon’s wider commitment to making a material difference – using British products that enhance function, beauty and experience in equal measure.

“This garden is not just about what people see – it’s about what they feel,” added Barry. “These hard landscaping materials are unique, versatile products being used here in a way that highlights their purpose as much as their aesthetic appeal.”

Breedon Golden Amber Gravel and many of Welsh Slate hard landscaping materials are available to buy online with nationwide delivery.

Green-tech donates Green-tree soil substrate

Green-tech is proud to have supported the Garden of the Future at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2025 by donating its Greentree soil substrate, helping bring a powerful vision of climateresilient horticulture to life.

Designed by Butler & Parker and supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Garden of the Future received a prestigious Gold Medal at this year’s show.

Constructed by Acacia Gardens, the thought-provoking installation explored sustainable living and resilient planting in the face of climate change, demonstrating how collaboration and innovation are key to supporting communities across the globe.

Set in a near-future UK, the garden imagines a world where the climate is continuing to change. Where countries are experiencing higher-than-average temperatures, more extreme weather, periods of drought, and sudden, heavy rainfall. Designed to thrive in these conditions, the bio-diverse garden featured an array of

climate-resilient ornamentals and crops, edible plants with multiple uses and properties, and tools that demonstrate how farmers, scientists, and communities are innovating to grow a healthier future here in the UK and globally.

Green-tech’s Green-tree soil substrate played a vital role in this climate-resilient landscape, providing a stable and sustainable growing medium for the garden’s structural planting and biodiverse scheme. Developed to offer high performance in urban and rooftop environments, Greentree substrate was an ideal match for the garden’s semi-intensive, biosolar roof system, which was constructed with the support and donations from GRO (Green Roof Organisation) member businesses, including Green-tech.

Mark Wood, Business Development Director at Greentech, comments, “We were proud to donate our Green-tree soil substrate to such an inspiring and important show garden. The

Garden of the Future aligns closely with our values of supporting sustainable landscaping, futureproofing urban green spaces, and promoting climate resilience through innovation.”

The garden enabled visitors to understand the science and research behind these innovations, the challenges and solutions being developed by smallholder farmers, and what countries like the UK can learn from countries living on the frontline of climate change.

By showcasing global innovators and their solutions, the Garden of the Future aimed to inspire visitors to believe in the power of innovation and collaboration to transform human potential around the world, as well as offering take-home ideas for growing plants in a more sustainable, climate-resilient way.

Alongside Green-tech, other GRO members who contributed to the biosolar roof system included Bridgman & Bridgman, PV Plus, TEP, Optigrün, Diadem, SIKA, Radmat, and Wraxalls.

HARD AND SOFT LANDSCAPING

SGLD to stage dynamic autumn symposium

The Society of Garden + Landscape Designers (SGLD) will stage a two-day interactive Symposium this autumn to tackle the urgent question of how to create beautiful, resilient landscape spaces in the face of climate change. Through a rich programme of presentations, lively panel discussions and guided tours, delegates will learn how to mitigate the adverse effects of our changing climate, whether at a garden, landscape or wider community level, while also focusing on sustainable processes and materials.

SPEAKERS / PANELLISTS

Extreme! Designing Sustainably for a Changing Climate on 17-18 October 2025, will be chaired by Errol Reuben Fernandes, Head of Horticulture at the Horniman Museum and Gardens. Errol who has a background in fine art, curation and psychotherapy as well as being botanically trained, has introduced a number of new developments at the Horniman including a MicroForest of 900 trees and a Xerophytic (drought-tolerant) display of plants from Mediterranean climatic zones. Professor Nigel Dunnett, one of the world’s leading voices on innovative approaches to planting design, who helped create some of Sheffield’s pioneering urban regeneration projects, has been secured as the keynote speaker. He will be joined by a variety of thought-provoking panellists and speakers including: landscape designer, author and presenter Tom Massey MSGLD, horticulturist, designer and author Alys Fowler, sustainable materials pioneer Loretta Bosence of

Local Works Studio and South Korean ecological designer and RHS Chelsea medal winner Jihae Hwang. Panel discussions will cover themes such as ‘adapting landscapes to extreme weather events’, ‘designing with nature’ and ’embedding sustainability in both process and practice’.

LOCATION / VENUE

Moving away from the tradition of holding design events in London, the SGLD will stage the event in Sheffield – one of the UK’s most exciting cities for urban regeneration and landscape innovation. The iconic, Grade II* listed Sheffield City Hall in the heart of the city will serve as the venue offering a stunning backdrop to what promises to be an inspiring and thought-provoking event.

GUIDED TOURS

With Sheffield as the backdrop, attendees at the Symposium will have the opportunity to join guided tours of the city’s award-winning public spaces and community-interest projects, including the Grey to Green scheme, Park Hill and Manor Fields Park. There will also be a guided tour of the Pictorial Meadows headquarters, part of The Green Estate and the organisation behind the design, planting, and long-term stewardship of many of Sheffield’s most ambitious urban regeneration sites. Tours will be led by key members of the design and delivery team including Nigel Dunnett of Sheffield University; Zac Tudor, Landscape Architect at Arup Sheffield; Owen Hayman, Horticulture Innovation

manager at Pictorial Meadows; and Will Tomson, director at Sheffield-based design studio Creative Cultivation.

The first day of the event will be brought to a close with an evening networking event at Sheffield City Hall where ecological gardener John Little will address the audience.

As part of the event trade stand displays, from a number of the SGLD’s Affiliated Business Partners as well as other suppliers in the industry, will be available offering delegates access to high-quality products and services aligned with sustainable principles.

Chair of the Society, Andrew Duff MSGLD, said: “Our members, and other professionals in our field, are increasingly finding themselves at the forefront of environmental stewardship. The SGLD’s dynamic two-day Symposium will bring together leading figures in sustainable landscape design, horticulture and urban regeneration from across the globe to provide perspective and insight into this critical issue, and explain how designers can play a pivotal role in addressing climate change.

“Whether you’re a seasoned designer, emerging practitioner, educator, policymaker, or student, this event offers an exceptional opportunity to deepen your knowledge, expand your network, and be part of a growing movement towards climate-positive.”

Early Bird tickets, starting at £138 for students, are available from the SGLD website. There are also a limited number of hotel + ticket packages available. n www.sgld.org.uk

landscaping solutions for retaining walls Vertical

Landscape contractors are seeing the benefit of retaining walls that combine reduced noise levels with attractive vertical landscapes, offering a real variety of planting options.

Wakefield based Grass Concrete has a line-up of vertical landscaping products, the Betoconcept range.

The proven range brings different shapes and styles to accommodate planting on high or low walls.

Retaining walls on road highways or the simplest garden or boundary walls now feature: planting, colour, shape or textured finish. The Betoconcept range brings different shapes and styles to accommodate planting on high or low walls with; Betoatlas, Betoflor, Betotitan, Leromur, Betojar, Betoplus and Betonap products

Where garden space might be at a minimum a vertical landscape offers an attractive alternative.

Betoconcept blocks provide adequate soil pockets for all types of plants, shrubs and climbers. Good drainage and water capture with the stepped bank also helps keep landscape maintenance to a minimum. Using the depth for landscaping means significant growth can benefit both sound

suppression and help get quick landscaping results across a wide walled area

The Betoconcept range has interlocking blocks made from high strength machine pressed concrete, offering dry build solutions and noise absorption, excellent for external wall solutions in urban and rural areas.

Dry built blocks interlock to form the required face angle and can be easily planted. Easy and quick to construct with a choice of plantable or stonefaced finishes. The contemporary colours include: natural, buff and red will fit in with a variety of environments and tone with natural landscapes.

With individual interlocking blocks and dry-build interconnectivity the range offers the ability to free-form wall layouts in single or terraced wall format. These interlocking units enable a quick and easy construction process and can cope with complex curves, ground embankments and weight surcharges with various wall heights right up to 22m with different types to suit all kinds of housebuilding plots and surrounding hard landscaping.

Grass Concrete’s retaining wall range bringing together both structural integrity and a variety of landscape design options.

Barnsdale gardens tools on test – STIGA loppers

The hardworking team at Barnsdale Gardens have been busy not only tending to all 38 beautifully designed gardens, but also putting STIGA’s brandnew, stylish loppers to the test. Stiga continues to deliver excellence in garden tool design with two standout products: the Anvil Lopper and the Telescopic Bypass Lopper. Both tools share key features that highlight Stiga’s commitment to quality, comfort, and performance, but they also offer distinctive benefits suited to different gardening needs.

SHARED FEATURES

Both loppers boast a robust construction and user-focused design: Japanese carbon steel blades with a Teflon non-stick coating for smoother cuts and easier maintenance.

• Recommended cutting capacity of 42mm, suitable for most garden pruning tasks.

• Blade safety cover that doubles as a hanging hook – practical for storage.

• Integrated bumpers reduce hand and arm fatigue by absorbing shocks. Easy-cut power multiplier mechanism enhances leverage, requiring less effort.

• Ergonomic, rubberised grips over strong alloy handles, finished in vibrant yellow for easy visibility. Backed by the Stiga 5-year extended warranty, ensuring peace of mind.

ANVIL LOPPER

Designed primarily for dry and dead wood, the Anvil Lopper features a flat anvil blade that provides excellent grip and control. Anvil loppers typically compress the material before cutting, which is why they are better suited to non-living branches.

• Length: 71.5 cm

Width (closed): 24 cm

• Weight: 1.424 kg

In practice, the ridged anvil surface provided a firm hold on branches, allowing for clean, slip-free

cuts. Although not recommended for live wood, testing revealed minimal bruising on green stems, suggesting it could serve as a versatile option in the right hands.

RRP £39.99.

TELESCOPIC

BYPASS LOPPER

Optimised for live wood, the Telescopic Bypass Lopper offers precision and extended reach. The bypass blade system features a hooked lower blade to hold stems securely during the cut, ensuring clean results without slippage.

• Length: 65.7 cm (retracted), 93 cm (extended)

• Width: 22.5 cm (retracted), 35 cm (extended)

• Weight: 1.864 kg

The telescopic mechanism is intuitive – simply flip a durable plastic clip to adjust length, then lock it in place. Despite the added weight, the extra leverage and reach provide a significant cutting advantage, especially for higher or thicker branches.

RRP £44.99.

FIELD TESTING

Both loppers performed exceptionally well on a range of materials including dry hazel poles (45mm), mahonia, forsythia, and conifer stems.

The anvil lopper’s grip made precise cuts easy, while the telescopic bypass model impressed with its versatility and reach.

VERDICT

Both Stiga loppers are high-quality tools that deliver on performance and comfort. The Anvil Lopper is excellent for managing dead wood with precision, while the Telescopic Bypass Lopper offers greater range, power, and cutting flexibility, making it the ideal all-rounder for gardeners. Our pick: Both of the loppers are great tools and the Barnsdale team would happily recommend and use either.

But if they had to choose, it would be the the Telescopic Bypass Lopper, its versatility and reach make it the top choice for demanding garden environments like Barnsdale.

STIHL launches new blower

STIHL’s BGA 160 battery-powered blower offers landscaping teams a convenient and quiet means of cleaning surfaces and paths, effortlessly tackling such tasks with a high air flow rate of up to 940 m3/h. When compared with the powerful BGA 250 hand-held blower, the BGA 160 offers longer working times and a lower blowing force.

A welcome support for removing leaves, grass cuttings and debris from paths, driveways, and green spaces, the BGA 160’s blowing force can be controlled using the trigger and locked into place with a built-in cruise control.

A boost mode can be activated by fully compressing the trigger for 21 newtons of blowing force, with the setting constantly available over the tool’s entire operating time, should it be required.

For ultimate ease-of-use, this new professional machine has a compact design and a

curved blower tube, resulting in reduced wrist strain and excellent manoeuvrability.

In addition, thanks to STIHL’s Sound Engineering, the blower’s higher pitched frequencies and noise peaks have been eliminated, making it exceptionally quiet to operate, ideal for noise-sensitive areas.

As part of STIHL’s AP System, the BGA 160 meets the requirements

for professional use, drawing power from a 36 V lithium-ion battery. Use with the AP 300 S is recommended, which provides sufficient energy for up to 110 minutes on the low power setting and up to 15 minutes in boost mode.

The battery-operated BGA 160 can also be used in the rain and is IPX4 certified, enabling it to meet the professional user’s needs all year round.

RACHEL BAILEY

A star emerges from north of the border

Scott MacCallum chats with BBC Gardeners World Live Best in Show winner Rachel Bailey about the winning garden and her career

RACHEL BAILEY

“THIS ONE PROBABLY RANKS HIGHER BECAUSE IT WAS FOR A SHOW GARDEN, BUT I’M JUST AS PROUD OF THE AWARDS WE’VE WON FOR OUR ACTUAL REAL GARDEN AND LANDSCAPING WORK.”

You might expect, from the country that gave the world Charles Rennie Mackintosh, that flair and design expertise would course through the veins of Scotland’s inhabitants. It would be wrong, however, to suggest that everyone living north of the border is blessed with the attributes of Scotland’s greatest,

and most influential, designer.

That said, perhaps his talent has rubbed off on Scottish-based landscape designer, Rachel Bailey, who won Best in Show Garden at the recent BBC Gardeners World Live in Birmingham.

Rachel isn’t a native Scot, but has lived in the country for a large part of her life and sees herself as an honorary Scot. Her studio is

in Helensburgh, a beautiful part of Scotland, close to Glasgow and the stunning Loch Lomond.

Coincidentally, Helensburgh boasts Hill House, designed by Rennie Mackintosh and now a National Trust for Scotland property open to the public. Who knows what influence the great man has had on Rachel, subliminally or otherwise?

However, it was that she acquired her talent Rachel has already built a fine reputation, including Gold Medal wins at Chatsworth House and the Sustainability and Biodiversity Awards, but her win at the NEC was her first for a Show Garden. Indeed it was the first time she’d actually designed a Show Garden.

“This one probably ranks higher because it was for a Show Garden, but I’m just as proud of the Awards we’ve won for our actual real garden and landscaping work. Winning at Gardeners World Live was just completely different,” said Rachel, speaking to Landscaping Matters via Zoom.

She had been approached by Phil Tremayne, General Manager of the APL, to design the Association’s 30th anniversary garden after he had become aware of her ideas for a garden. Her sustainability and biodiversity philosophy fitted well with the APL’s desire to promote those same values.

Indeed, she is also lead for sustainability for the Society of Garden and Landscape Designers

“The garden was called ‘Where There’s Water, There’s Life’,” she explained.

“We had a raised deck that led through to a roofed pergola which would collect water for the planting on top of the roof.

“This would slow the water flow into the gutter that would then flow down a rain chain into a storage container. It was designed so that when it overflows it runs out of a small metal i-beam and into an attenuation pool which was right in front of the deck,” said Rachel, with the zeal of a person who knows she had produced something of high quality.

The idea was that when the pool filled up it would overflow through another i-beam and dribble into

the pond. When that overflowed it would go into a rain garden.

The garden would take 1,300 litres of water and wasn’t lined so the water could just infiltrate the soil.

The garden was constructed by Dan Ryan, of Birminghambased Design It Landscapes, who Rachel hadn’t worked with previously but with whom she built a good understanding and working relationship.

What was created, and what obviously impressed the judges, was a fantastic habitat for freshwater species that depended on it full-time or part of just part of their life cycle.

“While we were there building literally within a day of putting the pond in we had damselflies mating and laying their eggs,” she recalled.

They also left some bare soil patches within the garden to allow species that needed that type of ground for part of their life cycle to warm up or for nesting.

“It was to demonstrate that

we shouldn’t just cover every something with plants or paving.”

But a garden shouldn’t be purely and simply a nature reserve. The best gardens have a number of uses and Rachel’s garden was no exception.

“On the Friday night, after everyone else had gone home, we had people sitting around on the deck walkway, dangling their feet in the water and drinking beer. It was wonderful and showed that it was a very much a garden for people as well as wildlife.”

Like so many modern landscape designers Rachel was attracted to the professional while quite well advanced in another career altogether. Let her talk you through her history to date.

“I started life as a research scientist studying environmental toxicology but I had initially taken a degree in Zoology at London. I then completed a PhD at St Andrews, in Environmental

Toxicology and Biochemistry. After that I carried out some work as a postdoctoral researcher in Aberdeen and San Diego.

“In 2009 I came back to Glasgow and at that point I had a massive career change. I’d always had an interest in sustainability and the natural world, and I had got really into growing food and the whole idea and the ethos of living sustainably. That led me to do a diploma in applied permaculture design.

“I was designing lots of edible gardens for people, as part of my diploma, and I enjoyed it so much that I realised that this was what I really wanted to do.

“I appreciated that I needed to get all the skills required to design gardens so I went to retrain at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh.”

Having acquired the skills and the qualifications the next step is the experience and this was where Rachel took another major step – that of business owner.

RACHEL BAILEY

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“At the time there wasn’t anywhere in Scotland that you could go and work for someone so I took the leap to set up my own company,” she said.

That means adding business acumen – learning to pitch for work, personnel issues, health and safety, accountancy – to the green fingered and design side of the job.

“It’s been a mountain to climb to say the least. It’s not easy. To be honest, had I had the opportunity to go and work for somebody to learn my trade I could have done that. That would have been a much more preferable route of doing things.”

Rachel’s first paid job was a planting design contract.

“I undercharged, but not because I thought I needed to cut my teeth or that I was trying to undercut other tenders, it was genuinely

“I WANT SUSTAINABLE GROWTH AND TO BE DOING MORE OF WHAT WE’RE DOING CURRENTLY, WHILE BEING OPEN AND OPPORTUNISTIC TO THINGS THAT MIGHT COME OUR WAY”

not understanding cost analysis.”

With her own start in mind Rachel now has a studio with three designers – herself and two others.

“That allows us to have people come and work with us and learn the business.”

What is a Rachel Bailey Studio garden?

“If I was going to describe our gardens they are strong on geometric, strong on structure and layout but are really softened with planting.

“They’re very plant-filled, very immersive spaces, and our gardens tend to lean towards using more natural materials and products –repurposing materials that we find on site or ones that we bring in from a local reclamation yard. We aim for low hard landscaping and a high percentage of planting,” described Rachel.

What of the future and where will Rachel and her company be five years down the line?

“I don’t want to have a studio that’s three or four times our current size – or even double, but I may have another designer. I want sustainable growth and to be doing more of what we’re doing currently, while being open and opportunistic to things that might come our way.”

She’d also like to find a way to make garden design more accessible to garden lovers that

would like professional help.

“I’d like to work out how we can help people who don’t have big budgets. I’m talking about how we can help people have a plantfilled garden that’s really good for wildlife and nature and good for them. And be able to do it on a budget without undermining our profession or cutting our fees.

Getting back to BBC Gardeners World Live. Did Rachel enjoy the experience when she was there?

“There was a real camaraderie it was really lovely to be working in that environment. In many ways, though, I preferred the build up to the actual event itself. There is nothing like adrenaline and a deadline that is a common goal,” she said of the three week she spent at the NEC for the build and then the show itself.

“However, I loved talking through the concept of the garden and talking about the plants with the public –even though I was exhausted.”

Rachel is very much on an upward trend and while she will continue to put her own commercial work ahead of designing Show Gardens don’t rule out future appearances at the major shows. In the meantime wouldn’t it be great if she were to be commissioned to produce a garden for Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Hill House in her beloved Helensburgh? That would be really something.

Rachel with her winning team

ON MOWERS

STIGA Park Pro mowers

– your ultimate lawn hero

Say goodbye to boring lawn jobs and hello to the STIGA Park Pro 900 WX and 900 AWX… rideon mowers built for serious mowing and serious fun. These machines aren’t just tough, they’re smart, agile, and a joy to drive.

FRONT-DECK POWER, MAXIMUM CONTROL

Unlike traditional mowers with mid-mounted decks, STIGA flips the script with a front-mounted cutting deck. What does that mean for you? Clear visibility, precise edge trimming, and easy access to awkward corners that other mowers just can’t reach.

TURN LIKE A PRO

STIGA’s unique 50:50 articulated steering means the rear wheels follow exactly where the front goes, no awkward swinging, no bumping into things. Whether you’re weaving around flower beds or tight corners, it’s all smooth sailing.

SMOOTH MOVES

Forget clunky gear changes. With

foot-pedal hydrostatic drive, you’ll glide forward or backward effortlessly. And thanks to electric push-button height adjustment, switching your cutting height (25–90 mm) takes seconds…not sweat.

ENGINEERED TO IMPRESS

Under the hood, the 900 WX rocks a 688cc Honda GXV 630 engine while the 900 AWX cranks it up with the 15.4 kW Honda GXV 690. These twin-cylinder beasts bring low vibration, high torque, and whisper-quiet operation. Plus, features like OHV technology and forced lubrication keep them cool, clean, and super reliable.

COMFORT MEETS CONVENIENCE

Take a seat, literally, in the highback adjustable seat with armrests, and let the power steering do the hard work. All your controls are right at your fingertips with a side control panel that keeps everything intuitive and easy to access.

MOW YOUR WAY

Both models offer 2-in-1 mowing (mulching or rear/side discharge), letting you adapt to any lawn condition. And with Quickflip decks (110–125 cm), cleaning and switching attachments is a breeze. Bonus: a tow-hitch comes included, ready for all your lawn-hauling needs.

BUILT FOR ANY TERRAIN

With 4-wheel drive, hills, muddy patches, and uneven terrain are no match. These mowers grip and go where others stop.

TRY ONE FOR YOURSELF!

Curious? Come test drive the Park Pro range at GroundsFest, Stand OSA790 on September 9–10. n www.stiga.com/uk

Etesia Hydro 80 transforms productivity for garden maintenance business

James Duke Garden Maintenance, based in Whitstable, Kent, has experienced a significant boost in productivity after investing in an Etesia Hydro 80 ride-on mower.

James explains that the decision to upgrade came from a growing need to handle larger sites more efficiently.

“Some of the grounds we look after can be quite large in size,” says James. “We also care for small residential gardens and commercial sites. Beforehand, we were using pedestrian mowers on the bigger areas, and it was hard work – it took a long time. So, we started looking for a ride-on.”

After exploring various brands, it was Etesia’s Hydro 80 that stood out – particularly following a demonstration arranged after meeting the team at GroundsFest last year.

“We were highly impressed with what they had to say,” James recalls. “Ian from Etesia came down, dropped off some mowers for us to try out on site, and we were blown

away. We tried the Hydro 80 and as soon as we did, we ordered one.”

Since making the switch, the difference has been remarkable.

“Compared to using pedestrian mowers, the Hydro 80 is just so much quicker,” he says. “It’s freeing up so much more time for us – we’re finishing jobs earlier or fitting more in. I’d say we’re getting the jobs done in about half the time, which is fantastic.”

The Etesia Hydro 80 is packed with features that make it ideal for both large areas and tricky, confined spaces. With an 80cm cutting width and a tight turning circle, it’s easily manoeuvrable and can pass through small gateways or between parked cars with ease.

“The size is incredible – we can get it through tight spaces, around buildings, and even in between cars,” James explains. “And because it’s so compact, it fits straight into the back of our van at the end of the day.”

One of the key benefits of the Hydro 80 is its ability to cut and collect both long and short grass

without clogging, even in wet conditions – a huge improvement for James and his team, who previously battled with constant blockages.

“The collection is fantastic –especially in the wet,” he says. “With our old pedestrian mowers, they were always clogging up and we had to stop to clear out underneath the deck. We don’t have that hassle anymore. It’s saving us so much time.”

The Hydro 80’s 240-litre grassbox can be emptied from the driving seat and features a buzzer to indicate when it’s full.

“The grass box is huge – we can just keep going and going,” says James. “With the pedestrian mowers, we were stopping every five minutes. Now we can mow huge areas before we need to empty. And when we do, it’s so easy – just lift the handle and tip the grass out from the comfort of the seat.”

The versatility of the Hydro 80 has also impressed James.

“It collects,it mulches, it side discharges – it ticks all the boxes for what we need. We’ve used the mulch plug and it leaves a great finish. It just does everything we ask of it. We haven’t found a single issue with it. It’s solid, dependable, and just brilliant to use.”

Reflecting on the buying process, James also praised the support and communication from the Etesia team.

“They were absolutely brilliant to work with from the start. They talked us through everything, gave us the chance to try out the mowers, and let us see how good they really are.”

Asked whether he would recommend the Hydro 80 to others, James doesn’t hesitate:

“Absolutely. If you’re in the market for a ride-on that can collect, mulch, or side discharge – this mower ticks all the boxes. It’s small, nimble, and a total game changer for our business.”

n www.etesia.co.uk

Toro teams up with Commonwealth War Graves Commission

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) has upgraded its grounds maintenance equipment with the acquisition of a Toro Z Master 8000 Series direct collect ride-on mower, supplied by Mowers & More.

The latest development in a decades-long relationship between Toro and the CWGC, this addition is set to enhance the upkeep of the Brookwood Military Cemetery near Woking, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the United Kingdom, covering 37 acres.

Matthew Coleman, Sales Manager Professional Landscape Contractor & Site Works Equipment at Toro U.K., commented: “The Commonwealth War Graves Commission has chosen the Toro Z Master 8000 Series for its advanced features, which are well-suited to the maintenance needs of their cemeteries.

“The 37-acre grounds at Brookwood Military Cemetery are meticulously maintained by the CWGC’s grounds team, and this machine’s features will make their job simpler and quicker than ever.”

The Toro Z Master 8000 Series is designed to provide efficient and effective maintenance, ensuring the cemetery grounds remain in pristine condition. The mower delivers low ground pressure, minimising turf damage, while the outfront mower deck allows for precise cutting in tight spaces. A high-capacity hopper reduces the need for frequent emptying, while zero-turn manoeuvrability is perfect for the cemetery’s varied terrain.

Reinforcing the relationship between the two partners, Toro UK invited the CWGC to spend a day at their Spellbrook facility. The

day provided an opportunity to experience Toro’s broad portfolio, learn more about Toro and Hayter’s groundscare innovation and share further feedback and information.

The CWGC’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care for its cemeteries is evident in its choice of equipment. The Toro 8000 Series is designed to provide efficient and effective maintenance, ensuring that the grounds remain in pristine condition for visitors and to honour the memory of those who served.

“THIS MACHINE’S FEATURES WILL MAKE THEIR JOB SIMPLER AND QUICKER THAN EVER”

Toro and Hayter go big at GroundsFest 2025

If you’re heading to GroundsFest 2025, don’t miss one of the show’s standout exhibits. Toro U.K. Limited, the company behind the Toro ® and Hayter® brands, is returning to the event following a successful appearance last year – but this time, they’re going even bigger. With a stand space that’s more than double the size of 2024’s, they’re bringing the full force of their turf care expertise to this year’s show.

Whether you manage large green spaces, work in professional landscaping, or take pride in your own lawn, this is your chance to explore the tools that help you get the job done efficiently and reliably.

Located on Stands OSA640 and OSA760, Toro and Hayter’s expanded presence is designed to give visitors a complete view of their product offering. From commercial zero-turn mowers and out-front rotaries to domestic walk-behind models and batterypowered innovations, the full range will be on display. This is the ideal opportunity to compare machines side by side,

speak to product experts, and find out which models best suit your needs – whether you’re maintaining a single garden or managing a fleet.

One of the highlights of this year’s stand will be the live demonstrations. Visitors will be able to see a wide selection of Toro and Hayter equipment in action in designated demo areas. It’s a great opportunity to see how different mowers are built to handle everything from fine turf to tougher terrain – live and up close.

Toro and Hayter’s team will be on hand throughout the event to answer questions, offer guidance, and help you explore the equipment up close. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current kit, explore more sustainable options, or simply learn more about what’s available, the team will be happy to help.

This hands-on approach is what makes GroundsFest such a valuable event for end users. It’s not just about seeing machines on stands–it’s about understanding how they work, how they feel, and how they can make your work easier.

Toro and Hayter’s decision to double their stand space is more than just a visual statement. It reflects their ongoing commitment to supporting the landscaping and grounds care community with reliable, innovative equipment that’s built to last. By showcasing the full portfolio in one place, they’re making it easier for visitors to explore the breadth of their offering and see how their products can meet a wide range of needs.

Whether you’re a contractor, a local authority, a landscaper or a homeowner with high standards, you’ll find something of interest at the Toro and Hayter stand. With live demos, expert advice and the full product range on display, it’s a must-visit for anyone serious about turf care.

Join Toro and Hayter on Stands OSA640 and OSA760 at GroundsFest 2025, taking place on 9–10 September. Come and see why, when it comes to turf care, Toro and Hayter don’t just go big – they go all in.

Etesia Hydro 100 proves the perfect fit for Golders Green crematorium

With12 acres of immaculately kept gardens, Grade I listed grounds, and renowned memorial spaces, Golders Green Crematorium in North London is one of the most historic and revered sites of its kind in the world. Keeping the grounds to a consistently high standard falls to a small but dedicated team – and their latest secret is the Etesia Hydro 100 ride-on mower.

For Head Gardener Ian Harman, investing in the right machinery was a top priority from the start.

“We’re a small team of just four, and we’re constantly busy with everything from maintaining rose beds to managing formal lawns and the large scatter lawn,” said Ian. “Machinery plays a key role in helping us work efficiently, especially with the tight spaces and tree cover we deal with here.”

Ian had previously heard positive things about Etesia mowers and decided to turn to the brand after becoming frustrated following issues using a different manufacturer.

“The last mower we had just kept clogging,” he explained. “It slowed us down massively. When I came into the role, I went on a demo day and was really impressed with the Hydro 100 – so we decided to go with Etesia.”

Since making the switch, the results speak for themselves.

“We’ve put about 60 hours on

the Hydro 100 and had absolutely no clogging. It leaves a clean cut, picks up leaves and grass efficiently – even in wet conditions – and saves us lots of time. It also mulches the leaves as it goes, which helps with our composting.”

For a site like Golders Green, where space is at a premium and storage is limited, the compact design of the Hydro 100 has also been a huge bonus.

“We couldn’t store a large tractor-style machine, and we don’t need one,” Ian added. “This mower is the perfect size. You get the benefits of a large collection box with the manoeuvrability needed for tighter areas. It’s like having a garden vacuum –clean, simple, and effective.”

Ease of maintenance and usability were also deciding factors.

“It’s a very straightforward machine,” Ian said. “Fuel efficient, easy to service, and intuitive to operate. You’ve got a hydrostatic drive, simple controls, and changing the height of cut is quick – ideal if you hit a patch that’s slightly overgrown.”

Adam Nicholls, a gardener at the crematorium for over 11 years, agrees. “We’ve got a lot of trees here, and the Etesia is the best machine we’ve found for picking up leaves. The open chute design just swallows them – wet or dry – and

shoots them straight into the back. No blockages, no messing about.”

Adam also praised its versatility across the crematorium’s varied terrain. “It handles tight corners just as well as big open areas. Even in damp conditions, the finish is clean and professional. It’s the easiest mower I’ve ever used.”

The Hydro 100 is powered by an 18HP Kawasaki engine and features a 500-litre grass collector with hydraulic tipping, which can be emptied from the seat. With a modern hydrostatic transmission and differential lock, it’s designed for durability, comfort, and productivity – especially in demanding, highcollection environments.

For Ian and Adam, the support from Etesia dealer RT Machinery was another big plus. “I’ve known Scott Reynolds from RT Machinery for years,” said Ian. “They really helped us choose the right model for our needs – no upselling, just honest advice. Their service is second to none.”

Compact, reliable, and efficient, the Etesia Hydro 100 has proved the ideal solution for Golders Green Crematorium’s unique needs. As Ian sums it up: “If you’ve got restricted space, need a clean finish, and want a machine you can rely on – this is the mower for you.” n www.etesia.co.uk

Viano product range

Agrovista Amenity has reached an agreement with DJ Turfcare that will see it become the exclusive distributor for the Viano range of organic fertilisers and lawn care products throughout the UK (excluding Northern Ireland), effective from 21 July 2025.

The agreement signals an exciting development for Agrovista Amenity as it strengthens its offering to both the professional and retail markets. Best known for the hugely popular MO Bacter organic-based fertiliser, the Viano brand is RHSendorsed and well-established in the UK, with a loyal customer base.

“This agreement further demonstrates our commitment to the development and expansion of Agrovista Amenity,” said Dan Hughes, Head of Commercial at Agrovista Amenity. “Viano is a long-standing, respected brand

with an extensive customer base, and we’re proud to be taking on the responsibility of representing it across the UK. David Jenkins (Managing Director – DJ Turfcare), Barbara Jarman and the team at DJ Turfcare have done an exceptional job in growing the Viano brand over many years, and we look forward to continuing that journey.”

As part of the agreement, Agrovista will work to supply the existing UK distribution network and ensure continuity. A dedicated internal team will support the transition and ongoing development of this part of the business.

David Jenkins will also be working closely with Agrovista Amenity as a consultant to ensure a smooth handover and continued high levels of service and support to customers.

“THIS AGREEMENT FURTHER DEMONSTRATES OUR COMMITMENT TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND EXPANSION OF AGROVISTA AMENITY”

David would like to thank all suppliers and customers who have shown such loyalty to Viano products over the past 25 years. He is delighted that Agrovista has agreed to continue marketing and supplying the Viano range in the UK. Confident that demand will keep growing, David believes the public’s increasing awareness of the nourishing and ecological benefits of organic and organicbased fertilisers will drive future success. He extends his best wishes to both Agrovista and Viano for the next chapter.

Dan added: “We’re delighted that David will be working with an experienced and skilled member of our team, Jack Fishman, to support a seamless transition and help manage the existing Viano customer base. The further expansion of our organic and organomineral portfolio of products is testament to our focus on finding market leading sustainable solutions and technologies for amenity situations.”

n www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

Brentwood Tree Surgery reaches new heights with the Avant 630

When Adrian Strudwick, owner of Brentwood Tree Surgery, was weighing up whether to hire another employee or invest in a new machine, he made a game-changing decision – and hasn’t looked back since.

The purchase of an Avant 630 compact loader has not only accelerated operations across his tree surgery and firewood businesses, but it’s also unlocked new opportunities, turning the machine into what Adrian now calls “the centre of the firm.”

Adrian’s background is in engineering – he began in aircraft engineering before joining the forces in 1982. After leaving the military, he retrained in arboriculture, eventually gaining a degree in the subject and setting up Brentwood Tree Surgery. Over the years, his business has expanded to include firewood processing, site / estate management, and driveway installation – and the Avant 630 has been instrumental

“IT’S RELATIVELY LIGHT ON THE GROUND, SO YOU DON’T GET THE DAMAGE YOU WOULD WITH A 10-TONNE FORESTRY VEHICLE”

in driving that growth.

The Avant 630 isn’t just a forestry machine for Adrian – it’s a versatile workhorse. Used both on-site and at the yard, the compact loader handles everything from loading trucks and towing trailers to moving hay bales for horses and feeding timber into kilns.

“We use it for shifting machinery, unloading our Unimog, clearing the yard, moving crates of firewood – you name it,” says Adrian. “It’s sped up production so much. What used to take multiple people and hours of manual labour, we can now do faster, more efficiently, and with less fatigue.”

Its versatility comes from its size, agility, and the vast range of attachments available – Adrian currently uses forks, a loading bucket, a power rake, and a stone burier, with plans to add a stump grinder and flail mower to his kit.

On-site at Barrack Wood, Adrian uses the Avant 630 to manage timber extraction with minimal impact on the environment.

“It’s relatively light on the ground, so you don’t get the damage you would with a 10-tonne forestry vehicle,” he explains. “You can trailer it in and out easily.”

Barrack Wood, steeped in history from the Napoleonic era, is a delicate environment. Adrian’s careful management and the Avant’s low ground pressure make it an ideal combination for

sustainable woodland work.

Brentwood Tree Surgery also runs a kiln-dried firewood company – the only one in the area with a wood kiln capable of drying 15 tonnes of timber in just five days.

“All the waste wood is burnt in biomass boilers to fuel the kiln,” says Adrian.

The high-quality firewood meets DEFRA and Woodsure standards – a key requirement in today’s market — and Adrian credits the Avant 630 for helping maintain this efficiency and quality.

“It ticks so many boxes for a machine of its size. You can do so many different types of work with it – it really is a super tool,” he says. “And the quick-release hydraulics make switching attachments a matter of seconds. No downtime.”

He’s been so impressed with the performance that after three years of ownership, he’s looking to add a second unit – or possibly upgrade and keep the original.

Adrian also praises the support he’s received from Avant’s dealer, Avant South East. “Chris and the team have been fantastic. They’re a family-run firm and really good to work with.”

For Brentwood Tree Surgery, the Avant 630 has become far more than a machine –it’s a business enabler.

“It really is the centre of the firm now,” says Adrian. n www.avanttecno.com/uk

TurfCare appointed as new UK distributor for DSV

Leading seed specialist DSV has appointed TurfCare as a new distributor in the UK, marking a significant step in DSV’s continued expansion across the amenity and sports turf sectors.

TurfCare, well known for supplying high-performance products to the turf and amenity markets, brings a wealth of industry knowledge and a strong reputation for delivering technical excellence. Based in Ireland, the company has steadily grown its presence in the UK and is now set to strengthen the reach of DSV’s innovative seed solutions across the country.

DSV has become an increasingly prominent name in the UK turfgrass market, thanks to its commitment to quality, performance, and continuous development. The company’s EuroGrass brand, in particular, has gained recognition

for its strong visual appeal, wear tolerance, disease resistance, and ability to perform under challenging UK climates. The range includes sports, golf, and landscaping mixtures, all bred to meet the demands of modern turf management.

Commenting on the new partnership, Samuel Horner, Amenity Business Manager for DSV UK, said:

“We’re delighted to be working with TurfCare as a new UK distributor. They are a well-established company with a fantastic reputation in the industry and a deep understanding of what turf professionals need. This partnership is a great fit for DSV, and we’re confident that it will help us continue our growth and provide even better support to customers across the UK.”

With aligned values around innovation, sustainability, and

service, the collaboration between TurfCare and DSV is set to deliver real value to grounds professionals and turf managers looking for advanced seed solutions they can rely on. n www.dsv-uk.co.uk/ products/amenity

WATER MANAGEMENT

Hunter Irrigation makes an instant impact at Leigh Sports Village

Keith Porter, Grounds Manager at Leigh Sports Village in Greater Manchester, is celebrating his 18th year at the helm of one of the UK’s fastest-developing sporting venues – and with the installation of a new Hunter irrigation system supplied and supported by KAR UK, he’s now seeing the benefits of precision technology across every blade of grass.

The new system has delivered a game-changing level of control and consistency for Keith and his dedicated six-person grounds team. Installed by Irrigation Control as part of a major hybrid pitch redevelopment in June last year, the Hunter system includes GT-885 and I-80-ON sprinklers designed to deliver performance, reliability, total top serviceability, and full even coverage of the pitch. It is combined with the ACC2 controller and Centralus software.

“We’d seen the technology at the BTME event in Harrogate and knew it was a step up,” says Keith. “You can access the heads without digging up the pitch –which is massive on a hybrid

surface – and the throw from the heads is brilliant. With the I-80s, even the central sprinklers reach right out to the touchline. We’ve now got 100% coverage, and that makes a huge difference.”

Previously, uneven watering created inconsistency in turf condition, with areas occasionally drying out and underperforming. The new system has eradicated that issue.

“With the old irrigation system, it was hit and miss – now it’s perfectly even. No dry patches, no burning off. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about performance and safety too. Even in windy conditions, the whole playing surface is getting what it needs. It’s transformed our matchday prep.”

Leigh Sports Village – home to rugby league club Leigh Leopards and Manchester United’s Women’s and Development teams – has experienced a steady rise in profile and popularity, with regular games, training sessions, and even film shoots becoming part of the busy schedule.

The small team manage far

more than just the stadium pitch – the entire site includes additional grass and synthetic pitches, a leisure centre, hotel, supermarket, and even a college campus. Despite the workload, Keith credits the investment in technology and ongoing support as vital to keeping up with demand.

“We’re left to manage things ourselves, and we’ve always had the backing when we’ve made a case for investment,” he explains. “The irrigation system was another example of the council trusting us to choose the right tools for the job.”

Control and ease of use have also proven key benefits. With Hunter’s Centralus control system, the team can operate the irrigation from anywhere –even at home – via smartphone, handheld remote, or laptop.

“It’s really simple. Any of the lads can pick it up and use it,” Keith adds. “You can run individual heads or sections for spot treatments or liquid feeding. You’re not restricted to a one-size-fits-all cycle – it’s totally flexible. That saves water, time, and effort.”

KAR UK, the UK’s leading supplier of Hunter irrigation equipment, played a key role throughout the project. Their technical support and advice proved instrumental in the system’s successful integration.

“Lee Williams from KAR UK has been great,” says Keith. “He was involved right from the start and has always been on the end of the phone. Any advice we needed, he was there. It’s been a smooth process.”

With the stadium pitch now fully covered and performing better than ever, Keith is already looking at future upgrades.

“Our external pitches are older systems, but as heads start to go, we’ll be replacing them with Hunter – it’s the way forward.”

As Leigh Sports Village continues its impressive rise, Keith’s team – and their irrigation – are keeping pace.

“With the Hunter system in place, we’ve got confidence in the coverage. It’s made a big difference,” Keith concludes. n www.karuk.com

Hindley Hall upgrades irrigation efficiency with KAR UK

Hindley Hall Golf Club, a hidden gem nestled in the Northwest of England has invested in a state-of-the-art Hunter irrigation system supplied by KAR UK.

The system, featuring the Hunter ACC2 controller and TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors, has already had a transformative impact on the course, providing better water efficiency, improved turf quality, and an enhanced playing experience for members.

Hindley Hall Golf Club is a compact 18-hole course spread across 96 acres, with undulating greens and narrow fairways that offer a deceptively challenging round for golfers. Despite its relatively small size, the course poses unique challenges for Course Manager Andrew Birchall and his team, particularly due to the region’s high annual rainfall and predominantly clay-based soil.

Andrew, who has been at Hindley Hall for 15 years – 10 years as Deputy and the last 5 years as

Course Manager – is dedicated to ensuring the course remains playable and in top condition, and that is why upgrading the aging irrigation system became a priority.

Prior to the installation, Hindley Hall’s irrigation system was failing, particularly at the sprinkler level. “It was putting too much water out in the wrong places, and we were really struggling to get water onto the greens when we needed to,” Andrew said.

Recognising the need for a modern, efficient system, Andrew opted for the Hunter ACC2 controller and TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors, which were installed by his own team.

The Hunter ACC2 controller, which allows remote management via mobile and desktop applications, has provided the flexibility to manage the irrigation system with ease. “The remote control is a game-changer. My deputy and I can control the system from anywhere.”

This newfound control has also streamlined feeding the greens, saving both time and effort.

“In the past, if we applied a granular feed, we’d have to wait for a forecasted night of rain to wash it in. Now, if there’s no rain on the horizon, I can simply switch the irrigation on from my mobile as I’m going around,” Andrew explained. “It’s brilliant. Everything’s at your fingertips.”

Furthermore, the controller integrates with a weather station to prevent unnecessary watering..

The TTS-800 Series Golf Rotors have also been a revelation for the course. “What I love most is that they’re totally top serviceable,” Andrew said. “If there’s an issue, we don’t have to dig up the entire sprinkler or disturb play. We just take the cover off, make the fix, and we’re done.”

The new system has delivered measurable improvements in water efficiency and turf quality. This precision has also improved playability, as the greens remain firm yet receptive. “In the past, some greens would dry out and become non-receptive to golf balls, but now we’re maintaining that fine balance between firmness and playability.”

KAR UK’s support, particularly from Wesley Henshaw (Golf Sales Manager), was instrumental. “Wes was brilliant,” Andrew remarked. “He sent us the products exactly when we needed them, talked us through everything, and was always on hand if we encountered any issues. He knows the challenges we face because he’s been in our shoes, having worked in golf course construction.”

As Hindley Hall continues its commitment to providing an exceptional golfing experience, the partnership with KAR UK and Hunter is proving to be a winning combination. n www.karuk.com

LANDSCAPING MATTERS

Dig Deep at Perennial’s fundraising lunch with Mark Gregory

Perennial will host its muchanticipated Dig Deep Fundraising Lunch at The Cumberland, London on 10 October.

This annual event celebrates those who tirelessly support and sustain Perennial’s vital work. With Mark Gregory, celebrated garden designer and Perennial Ambassador, and Manoj Malde, acclaimed garden designer and event host, this year’s lunch promises to be an afternoon of inspiration, gratitude and generosity.

Mark, a long-time supporter, brings a passionate voice to this cause. With a career spanning over 35 years in horticulture, Mark understands the challenges faced by those in the industry better than most.

“Perennial are working hard to increase awareness and engagement in the horticulture industry of all the amazing work they have done, and I am proud to be a part of it! Having spent my career in the horticulture industry I’ve come to understand the challenges which people face so I am honoured and proud to have the opportunity to become a Perennial Ambassador and use my industry expertise to support the vital work of the charity. Perennial have helped within the horticulture industry providing missing wellbeing services for today’s horticulturists. Perennial can support you and your family with financial advice, legal advice, and mental and physical health support.”

WHAT IS THE DIG DEEP FUNDRAISING LUNCH?

In its second year, the Fundraising Lunch is an annual celebration of Perennial’s supporters and their fundraising achievements. Last year’s event raised over £25,000 and 2025 is set to build on that success.

Far more than a social catch-up, the lunch is a heartfelt thank you to those who give their time, energy, and resources to support people in horticulture; whether retired or currently working in the industry.

“This lunch is more than just a catch up,” Mark explains. “It’s to build stronger social networks

with our generous partners and supporters. It’s an opportunity for us to thank those who pledge their time, energy and funds to our cause. And of course, at the lunch we are encouraging you to dig deep and help us fundraise.”

WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY

Guests will enjoy a glass of fizz on arrival followed by a beautifully curated three-course lunch with wine. Thank you to our menu sponsor, MorePeople, along with The Plantman & Co who are providing the bespoke table centre pieces.

After lunch, the spotlight will shine on standout supporters with the Silver Shovel Spotlight Recognition Awards, celebrating the tireless efforts of those who have made a difference throughout the year.

Adding a touch of fun and anticipation is the Envelope Raffle, sponsored by award-winning F.B & Sons Lawns & Landscapes, with silver and gold envelopes offering attendees the chance to win exciting prizes including: Mamma Mia Theatre Tickets, an Outdoor Pizza Oven and lots more.

The excitement continues with a live charity auction, sponsored by Melcourt and led by expert auctioneer Mark Head, who’ll encourage everyone to truly “dig deep” in support of Perennial’s work.

Lots include a Night as Royalty at Hever Castle, Gentlemen’s Singles final tennis ball and Kingscote Vineyard Tour and Tasting for Two.

SPECIAL GUESTS

Joining the event will be none other than Alan Titchmarsh CBE, Perennial’s President of over 20 years, who will deliver a welcome speech. Our special guest for the lunch will be Matthew Biggs, beloved radio personality and gardening enthusiast, bringing his unique wit and horticultural insights to the table.

FINAL THOUGHTS

The Dig Deep Lunch is not just an afternoon of celebration, it’s a chance to support the backbone of the horticulture world. Whether you’re a longstanding partner or attending for the first time, your presence helps Perennial continue its vital mission: to be there for all those in horticulture when they need it most.

GET YOUR TICKETS

Where: The Cumberland, Great Cumberland Place, Marble Arch, London, W1H 7DL

When: 10 October 2025 | 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm Tickets: £145 Standard Ticket, £1,305 Table of 10 (1 place free) All include a glass of fizz on arrival and a three-course-meal with wine.

Booking Link : perennial. org.uk/ fundraisinglunch