THE LANDSCAPER FEBRUARY 2017

LANDSCAPER

THE

BEFORE THE EYES CAN FOCUS – CROCUS

FEBRUARY 2017

ISSUE 214 £3.95

THE UK’S NUMBER 1 LANDSCAPING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

MARKETING A LANDSCAPE BUSINESS

SPEC 134 PAIAL EDITIO GE N

THE GARDEN PRESS EVENT 2017 URBAN FARMS NEW TRUCK REVIEW

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Signs of Spring We now have multiple ways to connect with of environmental customers and each other – and be connected legislation.

24/7/365. To some, digital marketing is the only Brexit will also game in town. The landscape industry tends to mean the UK balance both traditional and online methods. leaving regulatory Ffion Llwyd-Jones investigates (p32). organisations such The urban farm’s aim is to have a long term impact as the European on the lives of townsfolk and change the way they Environment think about fresh produce and where it comes Agency and the from. They also help to attract much needed young EU’s Chemicals people into our industry. Cultivate London also run a Agency, as well professional landscape gardening service. They look as the Emissions after both commercial and residential properties Trading Scheme. whilst training apprentices in the sustainable Green MP Caroline Lucas points out we are facing a management of gardens and green spaces (p60). period of “profound uncertainty” over environmental As new people set up shop as landscapers, transport protections. She added: “Theresa May’s courting is initially the first major pull on cashflow. Indeed, of the United States in pursuit of a new free trade it continues throughout the growth of any firm to agreement poses an even greater risk that ministers be a subject worthy of may be tempted to water down regulations - such as attention. Liam Campbell those on GMOs, pesticides, and joins The Landscaper team as animal hormones. We could see Automotive Editor (p44). chlorinated chickens and hormone As we begin the process beef on UK markets.”

THE UK’S NUMBER 1 of Brexit 1,100 pieces of EU I suspect Lucas is correct about LANDSCAPING INDUSTRY green legislation needs the government’s cavalier attitude MAGAZINE MARKETING to be moved into UK law to the environment. Over half the UK A LANDSCAPE for our safeguards to be population regularly use their local BUSINESS maintained. park, yet the challenge of managing The Tory government our parks and green spaces is might seek to water down increasing due to the continued some rules as it transposes reduction in funding and loss of staff them to UK law. and skills. The improvements made One area is enforcement over the past 20 years could well be – there is no UK equivalent lost and our parks, once again, go SEEDS for the European into decline and become places that URBAN FARMS ARTIFICIAL Commission and European require significant investment.

NEW TRUCK VERSUS REVIEW NATURAL GRASS Court of Justice in terms The signs of Spring are everywhere of acting over breaches - have a good month. www.landscapermagazine .com

LANDSCAPER – CROCUS

TH E

BEFORE THE EYES CAN FOCUS

FEBRUA RY 2017

ISSUE 214 £3.95

Photo credit: Anthony

Paul Landscape Design.

©Clive Nichols

The The Landscaper Landscaper | Issue | Issue 214 214 | February | February 2017 2017 3 3

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Snippets..................................................... 90 The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Green spaces are at a tipping point The Parks Alliance (TPA), the UK’s voice of parks, today responded to the Communities and Local Government Committee’s report on their inquiry into public parks by calling on the government to take a joined up approach across Departments to fund them.

Over half the UK population regularly use their local park, yet the challenge of managing our parks and green spaces is increasing due to the continued reduction in funding and loss of staff and skills. We have to find a solution now before the improvements made over the past 20 years are lost and our parks, once again, go into decline and become places that require significant investment.

Matthew Bradbury, Chairman of The Parks Alliance, told The Landscaper “We welcome the report but just see this as the start of the process to protect and enhance our parks.

It gives all of us, the public, park professionals, local and central government the opportunity to seek solutions and avoid merely nursing our parks into a managed decline.

“It’s important that the Committee has recognised that parks are central to our wellbeing but it is bitter sweet to read a report which confirms what we have believed for some time thatparks are at a tipping point. They are at the heart of British life yet are a cinderella service set against competing financial demands.

“The Parks Alliance would support the call for local authorities to publish strategic plans to recognise the value of parks beyond leisure and recreation but there is a role for central government too. The Government should issue guidance to councils to work with Health and Wellbeing Boards and others. But they can and should, do more.

“Fundamentally, we believe there is a case for greater

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leadership to ensure our public parks and open spaces thrive. We would go further than the report and ask that investment is directed by central government to ensure there is strong leadership in the parks sector. If this comparatively small investment is made, it will deliver huge return in terms of improved wellbeing, social cohesion and environmental management. We need to consolidate on what’s been achieved over the years and reap the benefits. In order for leadership and national coordination to develop, this will require the necessary and urgent investment. It is then up to the Parks Alliance and others to step forward and prepare the profession to respond and continue to innovate to protect our parks.

“We have long counselled that there is no single solution that will solve the long term sustainability of parks. The Alliance stands ready to help and explore alternative models with the ParksMinister, Andrew Percy MP, the Local Government Association and local authorities. For instance we would like to see what more can be done to ensure new developments consider the need for access to public parks and open spaces for their residents. We need to grasp the opportunities for new development to finance the provision of new open spaces.

“We welcome the recognition of the need to engage with other government departments to tackle the challenges we face and look forward to hearing from the Minister on how we can collaborate with his cross department group.

“The Committee will return to this issue to gauge the progress made before the end of this Parliament. We at the Alliance, will certainly be keeping the pressure up.”

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‘Why do parks matter?’ BALI’s view Following the publication of the Communities and Local Government Committee’s cross party report on the inquiry into public parks, BALI’s Chief Executive Wayne Grills commented as follows: “BALI welcomes the recognition by the cross-party CLG committee that parks play a vital role in in the communities they serve. Asking the question ‘Why do parks matter?’, the committee has clearly sought and carefully considered contributions from the broad range of stakeholders on the value of parks and the many challenges facing the parks sector.

BALI believes it is essential that the Parks Minister, Andrew Percy MP, and his team continue to support and work proactively with Local Authorities on the consultation, development and implementation of green space strategies. The intention that the Minister report back annually to Parliament on

progress made is welcomed.

The report clearly acknowledges that whilst volunteer groups make an important contribution to trying to hold back the deterioration of some public parks, there are limitations to relying on volunteers. The health and safety implications from poor maintenance are a major concern for Local Authorities and for BALI and its members operating in the parks sector. BALI believes that solutions involving volunteers should be carefully implemented, managed and monitored.

The report also acknowledges that parks need to be managed for the long term. BALI members who are already part of the ongoing solution providers and partners of Local Authorities, are keen to work with senior representatives at local and government level to help develop and drive forward viable and sustainable park maintenance strategies.”

Splash at Royal Botanic Garden

Firestone Building Products’ PondGard EPDM lining is to be used in the refurbishment of the John Hope Gateway ornamental pools at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE).

Constructed to provide a biodiversity and information centre, The John Hope Gateway, named after an 18th century Regius Keeper and leading botanist, includes a ground floor exhibition space and a first floor restaurant.

Both areas overlook the three ornamental pools, which cascade down into each other, creating a prominent water feature at RBGE. Issues with the pipework, the failure of the existing pond lining and the need to create a maintenance walkway between the pools and building have prompted the refurbishment, which will be carried out by specialist

contractor, Water Gems (Alba) Ltd in a six week programme.

The project will utilise 300m2 of Firestone’s PondGard EPDM lining, supplied by distributor, Gordon Low. PondGard is specifically designed for decorative pond installations and guaranteed to be compatible with aquatic life in accordance with Water Research Centre testing reports.

Water Gems will strip out the existing pond lining and carry out repairs to the pipework to restore the cascade feature, before replacing the lining with PondGard EPDM and allowing the new lining to settle, prior to re-filling the pools.

The project will also include creation of a new walkway between the pools and the building to enable cleaning of the floor to ceiling windows, along with various soft landscaping works.

Comments Nick Benge, director at Water Gems, “The John Hope Gateway is a shining example of green construction and sustainability and this pond refurbishment scheme will enhance the views from the restaurant terrace and exhibition space and encourage biodiversity.

“With its durability and flexibility, suitability for aquatic life and excellent service life, Firestone’s PondGard is the ideal choice for a liner that will ensure this striking feature enhances the visitor experience for years to come.” www.firestonebpe.com

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Building on success Screwfix LIVE is returning to Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre (29 September – 1 October 2017) for what is set to be its biggest show ever.

Building on the success of previous years, this year’s Screwfix LIVE promises to be the best yet, with 170 leading trade suppliers gathering under one roof to showcase the latest innovative products.

The show is designed to give tradespeople the chance to get their hands on the best products on the market, in addition to finding out more about the newest tools and essentials from their favourite brands.

The show is set to feature live product demonstrations, competitions and event-specific offers, deals and giveaways, plus lots more for tradespeople, DIY enthusiasts and their families!

Andrew Livingston, CEO of Screwfix, told The Landscaper “Screwfix LIVE is the ultimate show for everyone who loves to check out the latest products.

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Last year’s event was the biggest one to date, with more than 14,000 visitors attending and over 135 trade suppliers on show. By increasing the size of this year’s Screwfix LIVE by over 100,000 sq ft, we’re thrilled to be bringing together even more top suppliers, to make it the best Screwfix LIVE yet. www.screwfixlive.com

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Trades offer women excellent pay and prospects – so why are so few joining up?

The landscaping and building trades maintain their position as the leading source of self-employment in the UK, counting for almost a million businesses.

AXA’s latest figures reveal they are still the best choice for a solid and growing income, but questions why numbers of women in the trades remain miniscule.

The survey found that in 2016 a tradesman’s take-home pay was typically 15 per cent higher than that of a selfemployed professional, and 37 per cent above that in the retail or services industries. Startup tradesmen turn a profit fastest too – within the first three months on average. And seventy one per cent of tradesmen go full-time within a year, compared to 55 per cent of professionals.

With such good prospects, the study questioned why so few women are taking up the tools of the trade. According to AXA’s customer data, just 5.2 per cent are women, far fewer than the 1 in 10 commonly quoted. And, for the record, women account for just 1.8 per cent of ‘white van’ drivers on the roads today.

Landscaping is the first UK trade to see a significant number of women: AXA’s figures show a 27 per cent representation among business owners. The five ‘men’s jobs’ that are most in need of female recruits are: stonemason, heating engineer, plasterer, electrician and plumber.

Despite the low numbers, those pioneering women who have entered the building trades are having a busy and prosperous time: • Average take-home pay for a tradeswoman is £1,660 (compared to £1,030 across professional, retail and service sectors working the same hours).

• Two thirds say they are confident they will see business growth in 2017 (compared to 42 per cent average), and nine in ten rate their business as a success.

• Average hours worked by a tradeswoman is 41 per week, compared to the average of 32 hours per week for all other sectors.

Longer hours worked outside the home may make the trades less attractive for younger women who are juggling childcare with their work. Another reason put forward is that the traditional routes into the trades are outside the education system – through apprenticeships, on the job training, or businesses passed from father to son (ten per cent of tradespeople inherited their firms).

“This means the trades are rarely promoted to girls when they are making their career choices, even though training

to be a landscaper or electrician could be as good –if not a better – option than university for many”, Managing Director, AXA Business Insurance told The Landscaper “There is also the stubborn persistence of the ‘cowboy builder’ headline in the media which is rarely balanced by the many positive stories of decent tradespeople that we see. Seventy-two per cent of women surveyed last year said they thought the ‘cowboy’ stereotype was true of tradespeople. There is definitely an image problem there, and it is deeply unfair.”

“There is an economic side to this too, which is every bit as important as getting more women onto FTSE 100 boards. The government pledged a million new homes and £500 billion investment in infrastructure projects by 2020 – that’s a huge part of our economic life for women to miss out on. It is hoped there will be more encouragement for small firms, led by both men and women, to benefit from these opportunities.”

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Charge and go – low noise low emission ECHO has introduced a new range of 50V Lithium Ion battery products, including a Hedgetrimmer, a Trimmer and Power Blower that take on their petrol counterparts with a wealth of added benefits.

The DHC-200 Hedgetrimmer and DSRM-300 Trimmer each come with a 2Ah battery as standard and the option of a 4Ah battery for a longer run time. The DPB-600 Power Blower has a 4Ah as standard. Both types of battery fit other ECHO 50V tools, so there’s no need to buy different types of battery or chargers.

What’s outstanding about these 50V battery products is the fact they produce petrol performance and are professional grade tools built to the same standards as ECHO’s petrol range. They are powerful, tough, durable and built to last, but the similarities stop there. With their easy to use controls there’s no recoil start and no fuelfilling. You just charge and go. They are low noise and low emission so they are ideal for use around sensitive areas such as schools and nursing homes, amenity and visitor centres, parks and gardens. Lightweight and well

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balanced, each tool is easy to control and manoeuvre and can be used for long periods with little user fatigue.

Maintenance is reduced because there are fewer moving parts. In fact each product has a brushless motor which is long-lasting and maintenance free due to non-wearing parts, which has a big impact on reducing downtime and servicing costs. Emissions are managed by energy efficient motor controls for speed, power delivery and battery temperature, with the added benefits of improved cutting and blowing performance and longer battery life. Using a rapid charger, quick charging also reduces downtime so more jobs can be completed in a day; and there is of course that option of using 4Ah batteries for longer run time.

A two-year professional and five-year domestic warranty on all ECHO Lithium Ion b http://www.echotools.co.uk/attery products, including a 2-year warranty on batteries Tel 0800 597 7777 www.echo-tools.co.uk

news

Soaring high at Eagle Resorts

Thanks to the Otterbine Gemini proving itself reliable as a water aerator and display fountain in lakes at Tracy Park Golf and Country Hotel, Old Thorns Golf Club and Lythe Hill Hotel, estates manager Kevin Boxall says Otterbine is a firm part of Eagle Resorts, the parent company’s, future plans as it looks to increase its portfolio from 12 golf courses and hotels to 20 within the next three years.

“We are a rapidly growing company with plans for group expansion and investment in our existing venues,” says Kevin. “I am responsible for overseeing the works on all our sites and for specifically managing a £2 million investment in Tracy Park in Wick, near Bath, as we develop it into one of the nicest golfing destinations in the UK.” With such a big job it is important for Kevin, who has been estates manager with the Eagle Resorts, which also owns Castlemarty in Cork, Ireland and Chart Hills in Kent for two years, to have trustworthy and reliable suppliers and products. Otterbine contractor TopTurf Irrigation has been working with Kevin for many years providing “excellent service and installation and only providing us with a product suitable for our requirements,” says Kevin.

The product concerned is of course Otterbine: “We have used Otterbines on all our courses for many years and we’re very happy with the product, quality of workmanship and after-sales care. Otterbine comes highly recommended by our irrigation company TopTurf and

over the years it has proved itself to be reliable, providing the display we require and keeping the water in our multiple venues clean and clear.”

Designed to give the best of both worlds by offering function and beauty, the Gemini surface spray aerator can operate in as little as 75cm of water and can move over three times as much water than decorative patterns, thanks to its open-throat propellor design. It is particularly popular with golf courses and commercial complexes thanks to its ability to provide an attractive display, including three pattern options including the Sunburst and Saturn displays alongside the Gemini, with the capability to easily manage aquatic environments.

With short-term plans for “a few more Otterbine installations at Tracy Park” and long-term plans extending to Otterbines for the “other golf courses we will be buying in the coming years”, one thing Kevin can be sure about over the major development and investment work and expansion on the cards it’s reliability and quality, plus clean, clear, healthy water and a fountain display to appeal to all wherever he chooses to install an Otterbine Gemini.

For more information on Otterbine aerators and aerating fountains, contact distributor Reesink Turfcare on 01480 226948, email otterbine@ reesinkturfcare.co.uk or visit reesinkturfcare.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Five-year / 125,000-mile warranty The new generation D-Max arrives in the UK this Spring, and customers can now register their interest in the new truck.

D-Max has been extensively overhauled with the biggest changes under the bonnet. A brand new 1.9 litre turbo diesel engine has been fitted, which produces 164 PS and 360Nm of torque. The engine builds upon D-Max’s workhorse character and retains the 3.5 tonne towing capacity and 1 tonne payload whilst providing a quieter, more refined and economical driving experience. Another key benefit is that the new engine meets Euro 6 standards without the need for addition of AdBlue.

As per previous D-Max models, Shift-On-The-Fly 4x4 is a key feature of the 17MY truck. The rotary dial allows the driver to select four-wheel drive on the move as well as low range gears.

Finally, the D-Max comes with a five-year / 125,000-mile warranty, and was the first pick-up in the UK to be offered with such a comprehensive peace-of-mind package. Running costs

are kept down by 12,000-mile or 24-month service intervals, five years recovery and European cover, a three-year paint warranty, and a six-year anti-corrosion warranty. www.isuzu.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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New Euro-Alliance In the wake of its £4.5million sales success overseas in 2016, Morris Site Machinery is set to extend its footprint in Europe through its announcement that EuroGate International will be representing the SMC Light and Power brands in France, Benelux, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Poland, Norway and expanding throughout other European countries from January 2017.

The alliance came together after International Business Director Phil Winnington and Chief Executive of EuroGate International, Pieter Jansen, recognised the synergy between their businesses and growth ambitions.

Phil Winnington explained: “The more we got to know Pieter and the EuroGate International portfolio of quality brands, the more we realised that our values matched and that an alliance could be a positive way forward for both our organisations. SMC has firmly cemented its reputation for providing the highest quality, most fuel efficient and low maintenance power solutions for a wide range of industries and we are very excited about the potential of EuroGate International helping us spread our reach across these key European territories.”

The SMC Light and Power brands include the celebrated SMC TL90 Metal Halide and TL90 LED lighting towers and the SMC Genpac/Weldpac range which offers canopied diesel generators from 20kVA – 100kVA and open set petrol generators from 2.5 KW and 200amp welders.

CEO of EuroGate International, Pieter Jansen commented on the alliance: “EuroGate International is designed around the concept of offering the rental industry the best selection of high quality products from around the world and these new SMC Light and Power brands complement our current range. I am delighted to be bringing another quality brand to our European buyers.”

Pieter added: “As family owned and run organisations, EuroGate International and Morris Site Machinery share many of the same business values, so it feels like a natural fit to work together.” www.eurogate-international.com

Rolling fine lawns Poweroll rollers are used on cricket wickets, tennis courts, both grass and clay, croquet lawns and may be found at relatively modest homes and country estates, rolling fine lawns and gardens.

A new model to the range has been designed specifically for bowls clubs to speed up the greens. Less common but

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not completely unheard of, is their rollers being used to roll the runways of model aircraft enthusiasts, to produce a smooth landing strip and help prevent valuable models from crash landing.

The company manufacture a large range of rollers that starts with a push along 24” hand roller tipping the scales at just 165kg, to a large ride-on weighing in at 3,300kg for premium cricket and county grounds.

Examples of their tennis club customers include The Queens Club and Wimbledon All England Club (who operate 11).

The many hundreds of cricket club customers include Trent Bridge at Nottingham and the New Road ground at Worcester.

Poweroll fine turf rollers have been designed and built in the UK for 20 years www.poweroll.com

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news

Covent Garden - reimagined Covent Garden is set to be reimagined as a breathtaking Show Garden at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show, bringing a much-loved part of London to the worldrenowned event for the first time.

‘500 Years of Covent Garden’ will be designed by awardwinning garden designer Lee Bestall to showcase the area’s rich horticultural heritage. The garden celebrates Covent Garden’s early roots as a fruit orchard until the 16th century and later as a flower market, as well as the iconic architecture it is known for today, including the Market Building.

The Show Garden is sponsored by Capco, the landowner and steward of Covent Garden, in partnership with the Sir Simon Milton Foundation, the Westminster based charity which champions opportunities for young and old. In celebration of the close long-standing relationship between the partners, the subject matter for the garden was chosen to provide a unique space reflective of the neighbourhood,

past and present.

The central feature will include a mature, 60 year-old apple tree, harking back not only to the early beginnings of ‘Convent Garden’ as an orchard, belonging to and supplying the monk’s table at Westminster Abbey, but also to the 300 year-old provenance of the neighbourhood as a fruit and flower market. Flowering herbaceous plants will reflect the colours of apple blossom and large steel structures will reflect the distinctive arches of Covent Garden’s Grade II listed Market Building.

Reclaimed cobble pathways will guide visitors into the centre of the garden, just as the surrounding streets do into Covent Garden’s Piazza. A central seating area, paved with reclaimed York stone, provides a place to sit and relax, inspired by the social and modern dining environment of the Piazza which, as London’s first public square, was designed to bring people together.

Updated S4 vacuum sweeper BTME 2017 was the launch platform for the updated S4 vacuum sweeper from Trilo. Now available with larger radial tyres, larger air inlet, mechanical driveline and a range of shaft options, it provides greenkeepers and groundsmen alike with a to perform difficult cleaning work in a straightforward manner.

The second generation Trilo S4 is available with 1.8m, 2.1m and 2.4m suction head options which are compatible with larger models from the S-Line range of machines. One of the main adaptations is the switch from a hydraulic to a mechanical driveline offering a more environmentally friendly alternative. Not only that, but this change also allows a range of shaft options to be fitted, including a finishing mower shaft, verticut shaft and heavy duty flail shaft. Depending on the option fitted, with the new S4 it is possible to cut and collect, or scarify and collect, in just one pass.

As thoughts start to turn to spring maintenance, Trilo were also on hand to discuss scarification requirements with their range of verticutters. Within their portfolio are 8 different models, 4 with a straight shaft and 4 with a flexible shaft, best suited to those courses with undulating or sloped surfaces. The Trilo VCMK flexible verticut units are available in 1.7m and 2.0m working widths. The fixed shaft models range from 1.2m through to 2.4m working widths and all offer complete mechanical drive.

Also at BTME 2017, Trilo delivered an update on the dealer

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network they’ve established in the UK since they announced at BTME 2016 they were going to be selling the product line directly. Now with 11 dealers and 20 dealer locations nationwide and two dedicated UK Sales and Factory Support Managers, they are well positioned to deal with any Trilo related enquiries or questions. Customers can also benefit from the best prices on original parts, which are now available to order through the UK dealer network.

In the last issue of The Landscaper the gremlins unfortunately got into our system and a November 2014 press release from The Grass Group appeared in error. The Editor understands that The Grass Group no longer represents Trilo, GKB Machinery and ATT. We offer our apologies to those companies and to our readers for any confusion we may have caused.

SHORT TURN RADIUS LONG TERM INVESTMENT The new Volvo D-Series short radius compact excavators have been designed to make your investment work as hard as possible. Machines of this quality will retain their performance and their value in the market for years to come. ECO mode will help to cut fuel costs by up to 10%, while auto-idle and auto-shutdown will kick in when necessary. Maintenance time will be cut too, with 50 hour greasing intervals and grouped greasing points to make your life easier. And speaking of easy – the operator interface has been designed to be easy to use, easy to understand and easy to switch between different operators. The ECR35D and ECR40D short turn radius machines will slip into the tightest spots; and for those of you without space constraints, there’s the new standard length EC35D. All built for the long term. Building Tomorrow.

Volvo Construction Equipment Division Volvo Group UK Ltd Duxford, Cambridge CB22 4QX Telephone: 01223 836636 Fax: 01223 832357 sales.vcegb@volvo.com www.volvoce.co.uk

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

MANS Location Services offer the finest cable locators to allow for proper cable location on each job.

they can be discovered properly. They also provide a line of CAT and Genny (Signal Generators) so that you are able to properly and safely avoid any and all pipes and cables that may present.

Not only will you find that Mans the ideal source for all of the equipment for your cable detection needs, but we at MANS Location Services can help you with repairs of any equipment you may own, re-calibration of your equipment (which should be done every twelve months) and training on the correct use of the equipment. You will get all of their experience and knowledge in the industry with every product that you purchase from them.

Cable Location Equipment Mans offer a full range of equipment that can provide you with cable and pipe location capabilities like never before.

The locators available are among the best in the industry and make use of the latest in technological advances so you can be sure that you are getting the most accurate information possible regarding the placement of all of the cables and pipes that potentially are on the job site.

This allows you to proceed with the job without the worry of harm coming to any equipment that you may be using or to any of your crew.

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

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

Tel +44 (0) 1249 816 181 sales@mansls.co.uk www.mansls.co.uk

news

Powerful garden tools The WOLF-Garten 72 Volt Li-Ion power battery garden tool range is an interchangeable battery system that delivers powerful garden tools without engine fumes, tangled cables, or short run times.

To date the 72 Volt range has consisted of three lawnmowers but 2017 sees the introduction of three new handheld tools; a grass trimmer, a hedge cutter and a leaf blower. Each model is compatible with an interchangeable 72 Volt Li-Ion power battery and charger system. These 2.5ah high-performance batteries have 180Watt hours and are fully charged in just 60 minutes. If you are particularly short of time, there is even a super quick change option, which provides an 80% charge after just 45 minutes, making it one of the fastest chargers on the market.

In fact, the 72 Volt rechargeable batteries deliver immediate power and offer the longest charge time of all comparable battery-powered garden tools. An integrated cooling and ventilation system helps prevent overheating and guaranteeing longer service life with safe charging.

Every machine within the range is light, quiet to use and easy to handle, and requires almost no maintenance or upkeep.

The lawnmowers available include the LIONPOWER34, LIONPOWER37 and the LIONPOWER40, with each model being suitable for differing lawn sizes.

Each of these lawnmowers feature the WOLF-Garten ACC system – Advanced Cut and Collect. This system generates a strong airflow to straighten grass stems before cutting and accelerating the cuttings into the grass bag.

In terms of operating, these lawnmowers have been designed to make cutting the lawn a real pleasure, not a chore. They all feature quick-release handles with soft grip, providing comfort and safety. In addition, the mowers only run when the safety key is turned, even if the battery is plugged in, offering real peace of mind, especially if there are children around.

The 30T Grass Trimmer is perfect for tidying edges, and is aided by a telescopic, adjustable tilting handle with edging function. For further ease of use and user comfort it has a

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Versatile Reliable Performance...

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cutting head cover to reduce mess from grass cuttings, as well as a shoulder strap and soft grips. The battery provides over an hour of running time.

The 55H Hedge Cutter also benefits from a 60 minute run time and an ergonomically designed handle with soft grips.

This means that the machine can be operated continually without fatigue. The swivelling mechanism can be set to five angles (-95° / -45° / 0° / 45° / 90°) meaning your hands are always in the optimum cutting position. With a cutting length of 55cm, and a cutting blade spacing of 26mm, this machine tackles even the most unruly of hedges with ease!

The final machine within the range is the 24B Leaf Blower. This powerful piece of equipment benefits from an axial fan, which delivers maximum efficiency and effectiveness with speeds of 240 km/h and can run for up to 60 minutes. The short blower pipe ensures a wide airflow, while the longer pipe generates the maximum air speed. A turbo function generates greater power when needed at the touch of a button and combined with the

wide blower pipe with integrated leaf scraper, can handle the garden tidy up with ease. www.wolfgarten-tools.co.uk

THE

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The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Sustainable re-use A comprehensive Soil Resource Survey carried out for the Royal Horticultural Society by soil scientists at Tim O’Hare Associates (TOHA) for the proposed RHS Garden Bridgewater will provide an exemplar case study on the sustainable re-use and management of existing soils.

The proposed new garden – on the site of the former Worsley New Hall in Salford, to the north west of Manchester – has been designed by landscape designer Tom StuartSmith. Soils on the 63 ha site, which slopes down to the Bridgewater Canal on its southern boundary, range from a sandy loam, through alluvial silts and clays in the woodland areas, to peaty soils in the meadows abutting the canal.

TOHA Principal Consultant Tim O’Hare and Senior Associate Ceri Spears carried out a baseline assessment of all soils found on the site in November 2016, in advance of the commencement of construction of the planned visitor centre, with a view to their re-use for the new garden. The survey will also help to refine decisions made on the final landscape design and planting schemes provided outline

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planning permission is granted.

“This is an intriguing project that has the potential to act as an exemplar for future schemes where in situ soils, if correctly managed, can be re-used to their full potential” explained Tim O’Hare. “The range of soils within the four main areas of the site will need to be treated differently. Some of the sandy clay loams are very delicate and susceptible to compaction, for example. A good soil management strategy should be developed to ensure these soils are protected throughout the different phases of the garden’s construction.”

The diversity of in situ soils – a result of topography, hydrology and past land use - is a bonus for the development of the RHS’s new garden. An old boating lake on the site, which is heavily silted up, will be restored and the hope is that the infertile dredgings will be used to create perennial meadows. Areas of existing grazing land that will accommodate the planned visitor centre and car park have soils that will be ideal for planting in the site’s original walled garden where the existing soil is poor.

Tim O’Hare believes RHS Garden Bridgewater is a perfect opportunity to demonstrate how in situ soils can be effectively re-used to provide the right materials for a range of landscape applications. The creation of a detailed Soil Resource Plan, which gives guidance on soil stripping, storage, spreading, amelioration, and handling during landscape construction, has been recommended as the next step in the project’s soil strategy.

news

Sales opportunities Regen is the 3rd Annual free-to-attend Exhibition, Conference & Networking Event for the UK Regeneration Industry.

For the 50+ exhibitors, Regen will once again provide significant sales and business development opportunities whilst also offering an outstanding networking platform.

Delegates from around the UK from all the following sectors, will converge on Liverpool once again, and as such represents an opportunity not to be missed.

• Urban & rural regeneration industry professionals • Main contractors, property developers & construction companies • County, city, town councils & local enterprise partnerships • Housing associations & house builders • Town planners & urban design • Civil & structural engineers, land & infrastructure surveyors • Local & central government agencies • Investment agencies • Product manufacturers, service suppliers & consultants

To take advantage of the business opportunity offered by Regen; www.regen2017.co.uk 0845 467 3303 info@regen2017.co.uk

BUILT TO PERFORM

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The Lastec 2561D Articulator is on target with accuracy and flexibility. Featuring three fully articulating 533.4 mm decks, this is the world’s first 154.94 cm commercial mower of its kind. A unique modular baffling system allows the deck to be side discharge with mulching capabilities, it’s no wonder landscape contractors trust the Articulator to perform for their mowing challenges. Rear discharge deck optional.

• 154.94 cm of cut with the accuracy of three 533.4 mm push mowers

• Cuts at an efficient speed of 12.87 km/h to get the job done fast

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Book a demo today and see why the Lastec 2561D Articulator is built to perform.

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The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Versatile machine The Avant 400 series is a superb all-round machine for the development and maintenance of landscaped areas, perfect for gardeners and light professional use.

The design of the Avant 400 series will allow you to make rapid progress with a wide variety of landscaping jobs and tasks. The range features the 419 and 420 models.

The Avant 400 series of articulated telescopic loaders are compact, durable and adaptable. They are solid, easy to drive and turn evenly, and the Avant’s excellent capabilities ensure smooth handling and coping with varied terrains.

Whether you need to move earth or boulders, level areas for paving, or maintenance jobs such as mowing or sweeping, no job is too strenuous.

Another advantage of the Avant is the ease by which it can be transported by trailer from one work site to another, due to its light weight and compact design.

This versatile machine is enhanced further by the availability of more than 150 attachments, making so many jobs straightforward. Creating and maintaining landscaped areas will be performed with ease. All attachments are quick, simple and safe to attach. One Avant can undertake the jobs of several different machines.

With a low operating weight, simple and economical, the Avant 400 series is perfect for light professional use. It has simple hydraulics and a certified ROPS/FOPS safety frame with tinted plexiglass canopy.

Featuring hydraulic oil cooler, two front work lights, standard tyres 23x8.50-12 Traction or Grass profile and hydrostatic 4WD. Available in petrol and diesel models.

The machine comes with an Avant Cab L, offering protection against rain, wind and snowfall. It includes a windscreen with wiper and washer, right side window and rear window. www.avant.co.uk

Strength to strength Complete Weed Control has announced Conor Flynn as its newest franchisee to operate in the East Midlands.

Conor is the latest to join Complete Weed Control and after working with cars for the majority of his working career, he decided that it was time for a change of direction. When the opportunity arose to join Complete Weed Control he decided to learn more about the company, which ultimately played a major factor in his decision to alter his career path.

“I’ve worked with cars all my life, whether it is sales, events or driving around a track.

Cars are my passion but when the chance arose to join Complete Weed Control I think the opportunity was just too good to ignore.

“I met with managing director Ian Graham, to find out more on the company and learn about what would be involved in the daily running of the business – and that made my mind up.”

Conor spent a year learning the business inside out by

working under David Cocks, who had been in charge of the East Midlands area since 2000. Having recently just taken over the full day-to-day running of the business, Conor feels he is now ready to push on and grow the business.

“I’ve got some great clients and work at some fabulous places, which includes golf courses and sports clubs and I’m really enjoying it so far.

My plan is to keep growing and building on the relationships that David has built up over the past 16 years.”

Since its beginnings in 1972, Complete Weed Control has gone from strength to strength and has built a reputation as the most professional and relied upon weed control contractor in the UK. The CWC group has been complimented by its hugely successful business model. Every inch of the UK is now occupied by a Complete Weed Control operative and also has a growing presence in Ireland. www.completeweedcontrol.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Valley of Fire The Sir Harold Hillier Gardens are famous around the globe and have the world’s largest collection of hardy trees and shrubs anywhere in the temperate world. The Gardens now hold fourteen National Plant Collections and the latest planting project has been named ‘Valley of Fire’. The name is derived from the planting of over 30 different types of trees and shrubs that will create stunning autumn colour on both sides of what is currently known as Oak Tree Vista.

One of the challenges that faced the scheme was the need to create drainage in several areas of wet, heavy clay, to get the plantings off to a good start. David Jewell, Head of Collections, called upon the services of Terrain Aeration to carry out systematic treatment of the areas around the new plantings. “I have known of the Terrain Aeration service for many years,” says David, “and have used them before. Their machines do an excellent job with very little disruption, in our case in quite tight areas on very soft ground. The results always speak for themselves.”

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Terrain Aeration primarily used their Terralift Tracker to treat the areas between and around the saplings. The soft rubber tracks allowed the machine to traverse the soft ground and let the operator treat and de-compact the areas below any waterlogging. The method is especially effective where compaction or a natural water table forms an impermeable layer that will not allow water to pass through it; typical where there are areas of clay. The machine’s probe reaches far deeper than normal aeration and hydraulic fracturing of the ground with an air blast opens it up to improve drainage, and allow the all-important aeration around the root areas. As the probe exits the ground, dried s eaweed is injected which swells in wet weather to keep the probe holes open to aeration. Four shots per square metre were delivered around the saplings.

The new planting created in the Oak Field Vista, the large area of the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens located just as you enter, has a viewpoint down a steep slope towards the distant Hampshire countryside. Planted with a collection of Oak trees, the views are beautiful most of the year but in autumn months, while elsewhere the Gardens are vibrant, there is only a scattering of colour. The new plantings of North American Maples, Liquidambar, Acer, Sorbus and Cherry, interplanted around the existing trees, will bring tinted orange-reds to the view, while shrub beds planted with Sumachs, Lindera and Euonymus of orange, yellows, orangey reds and gold will complete the stunning autumn colour of the Valley of Fire. www.terrainaeration.com

news

SmartCut-Landscaper-Feb17.qxp:108x150

13/2/17

AMAZING

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versatility

Page 1

SmartCut There is no doubting their versatility; the unique AMAZONE Profihopper and Groundkeeper SmartCut are five machines in one - they can mow, scarify, collect, mulch and roll.

With 18 Groundkeeper tractor-mounted and three Profihopper self-propelled models to choose from there is a version that will suit your application, and all offer that same flexibility and exceptional manoeuvrability.

The SmartCut rotor system allows for a faster and more effective collection.

The SmartCut rotor system is capable of clearing rough ground as well as providing a lawn finish.

And SmartCut works faster and collects even more effectively in wet or dry conditions; packing the material into the hopper to spend more time mowing and less time emptying.

See the AMAZING SmartCut range in action Amazone Ltd. Phone: 01302 751200 E-mail: sales@amazone.co.uk Web: www.amazone.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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marketing

Strategic and Structured: Marketing Traditional or digital online marketing methods: what works in the landscape industry?

Ffion Llwyd-Jones finds out MIXED MESSAGES? Remember the 90’s and how the Internet was the new ‘kid on the block’? It changed marketing forever with the possibilities for creating long-term digital relationships between company and customer. Fast track forward to the 2000s, and we now have multiple ways to connect with customers and each other – and be connected 24/7/365.

With access to social media no longer exclusive to companies with big budgets, it might seem that digital marketing is the only place to be. However, the landscape industry tends to balance both traditional and online methods.

As Paul Cowell, P.C. Landscapes, comments: ‘You’re always working on something, somewhere – it’s not like putting an advert in the newspaper anymore. It’s a more complex scenario than that now. There’s no one solution: it’s a mixture of social media (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Houzz, etc.), links to associations, such as BALI or SGD, and your own website, along with word-of-mouth, and recommendations (keeping in touch with clients and maintaining good relationships), and networking at events to contact people you want to work with.’

Marketing across a number of areas is also a successful approach taken by Peter Cunliffe, Northumbrian Landscaping, and one which brings results: ‘I have never really chased financial wealth and success, but rather tried to ensure that I avoid failure. This is as much for the sake of job security for my staff than for any personal reasoning; however, the contracts that we are now offered, or that we choose to be involved with, are of a much higher interest, and this is down solely to marketing.’

For Claudia de Yong, of Claudia de Yong Designs, marketing has ranged from promoting the company’s website to word-of-mouth and networking. She says: ‘I find several avenues help me in my business. When I first started with my design and build business, my website was the main way of presenting my work to a wider audience

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and I paid for Google ads to up my ranking. I am not sure how this helped in the long run, as I stopped doing this after a year or so. Word of mouth is definitely worth a great deal and you are really as good as your last job, but I tend to get referrals that way and recommendations.’

Anthony Paul Landscape Designs also depends on its company website, along with social media such as Pinterest, says Anthony Paul. He adds: ‘We use Instagram to show our projects; however, word-of mouth is the most reliable way we get our work.’

Marketing through the company website also works for Angelique Robb, Papillon Designs Landscaping: ‘Many people comment that this is how they find us, and like that we have lots of different photos. Currently, we don’t pay for any regular printed/digital ads as we’ve not found that they pay off. We did advertise in a magazine at a local garden centre, but found no clients through this method.’

Word of mouth is definitely worth a great deal and you are really as good as your last job...

A variety of marketing approaches has also been the experience of Ian Price, Ian Price Design. He says; ‘Firstly, I relied on word-of-mouth, as the lack of marketing budget was a huge factor (I didn’t even have a website). There were no sources of free listings or websites, nor Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. Opportunities for business promotion were incredibly limited. A yellow pages listing was the main source for any business searches – the ‘yellow paper Google’. Now, the website is where the majority of my work comes from. I ask clients where they hear about me and delicately ask what they liked and disliked about it.

There is no better form of feedback.’

marketing Garden designed

by PapillonDesigns Landscaping in 2016

Angelique Robb in one of the gardens designed, constructed, and planted by Papillon Designs Landscaping in 2016

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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marketing Photo credit: www.ediblelandscaping.co.uk

That’s the difficult bit in some ways, trying to tie it all in together

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marketing

We market in every area that we can

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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marketing Photo credit: Anthony Paul Landscape Design. ©Clive Nichols

He adds that he does not use leaflets, noting: ‘How many products or services do you purchase because you saw it in a flyer through your door?’

And yet, proving that different methods work for different landscape companies (and products), Michele Fitzsimmons, Edible Landscaping, comments that marketing ‘depends on what I’m trying to sell.’ For example, the company’s design work marketing is done through its website, word-of-mouth / past student recommendations – and flyers. Michele adds that she gets ‘practically no work as far as I can tell through social media for design work.’ For her courses, she finds marketing success comes through different routes, including via the university web site and booklet (as she teach courses through the local university, Facebook, word-of-mouth, Twitter, and the company’s website.

As Darren Taylor, BALI Marketing and Communications Manager, confirms: ‘Out of all the industries in the UK, landscaping organisations still prefer a balance of online and traditional print marketing methods. For example, our members see the value of placing adverts in BALI’s Landscape News quarterly journal, and our annual Who’s Who Directory, because those publications target specifiers and decision-makers in local authority and construction, to name just a few.’ He adds that it seems to be the larger landscape contractor and affiliate (supplier) members who are regularly active on social media, particularly Twitter: ‘Twitter is also a popular method of communication for

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Garden Designers, as the nature of their business and that they mostly work as individuals, means they share their personal work, achievements and successes on Twitter more than most. There are less organisations using Facebook, which we can only assume is down to the fact that most organisations are B2B focused.’

TIME THIEF Of course, there’s another major factor at play here – it all takes time to do marketing successfully.

As Paul Cowell comments, marketing is something that you ‘constantly have to do’. He adds: ‘Digital marketing has increased a lot over the past few years. When you do the analytics it’s interesting, but you can spend a lot of time on it. Trying to optimise it for the best performance takes a lot of work, but it does work.’

Sometimes, it may pay to ask an expert in social media marketing. For Ian Price, the main focus of any advertising or marketing is the website, and he comments that it’s important to do the research and see what makes a good Google website: ‘Ask a verified, professional web designer and be prepared to pay for their services, as you would expect a client to pay for your expert knowledge. I’m a firm believer in asking those that know better for their advice and heeding it.’ He adds the website should ‘hit the right tone with the users – reflecting the style, look and feel of the gardens that I produce. It must be easy to use and be intuitive for everyone to use on every platform, including

marketing tablet, laptop, desktop, and mobile.’

And then there’s the time factor again: ‘The challenge is that landscape companies are already so busy doing the work involved in fulfilling contracts, that any additional marketing simply doesn’t get done – unless there’s an in-house or contract marketing person to do it,’ comments Denise Ewbank, PR Manager BALI. That’s a viewpoint Claudia de Yong agrees with: ‘My website needs updating, and that’s the problem when you’re working and haven’t got time to do essential changes and update material.’

The contracts that we are now offered… are of a much higher interest, and this is down solely to marketing WHAT WORKS? With such a wide combination of methods in use, marketing success also comes via different routes.

‘We market in every area that we can,’ says Peter Cunliffe.

‘Although it must be said there are certain areas that excel.

Our website is probably one of the strongest tools, where we have gone to some length to ensure an attractive site that highlights our six BALI National Award successes.

This also extends to emails, where a logo and an image dictating recent successes make for a good signature.

‘We have also made marketing mistakes, such as where we have paid through the nose for animated marketing positioned beside the score board of a local Rugby team.

Although this potentially targets a quality client, you have to consider that it is the same market week in week out, so the return on investment is at best risky. If it wasn’t for my love of rugby and sponsoring a team I love, I would probably regret this decision entirely.

‘Linkedin is also a useful tool, where you can find a group and ask a leading question about a subject that you are involved with at present. This not only offers industry feedback, but generates some interest in a subject you’re trying to promote.’

Angelique Robb has seen success throughout the year with Google adwords to the company website, and Facebook posts. However, she comments that the company is now seeing more interest in Twitter and Instagram.

And Darren Taylor comments that more needs to be done in using applications, such as Instagram, Flickr and

even Pinterest, to help reach new users that prefer more image-led content. He adds that ‘blogs are rarely used to market and promote products and services, most likely because the nature of a blog is to inform readers from a more personal stance; focusing on a journey or specific interest.’

Denise Ewbank comments that winning national awards offers an excellent marketing opportunity for a landscape company. ‘Winning an award consistently raises profiles, and then the types of contracts that companies are approached to do have higher values and are more prestigious – and that comes through exposure from winning the awards. For example, one company won a principal award for ground maintenance, and were subsequently ‘on the radar’.

Currently, Claudia de Yong uses Instagram and Pinterest, and writes for Houzz UK, and has got work through show gardens. For someone starting out in the business, Claudia suggests advertising in local Parish magazines or papers is a good start.

A stand at the Scottish home show in Aberdeen was a positive experience for Angelique Robb: ‘It has been an amazing way to inspire and add new clients as they get to meet us and see our portfolio.’

Doing RHS and other shows is a great way to directly talk to prospective clients, showcase work and interact with other professionals, agrees Ian Price. ‘Taking a stand at a large Irish trade show was also useful for me in the beginning, and while it was expensive, it did give me a chance to make meetings after talking to clients directly. I have also volunteered to offer garden design workshops in

Photo credit: Ian Price Design

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marketing This image: Glenridding Hotel project managed by Northumbrian Landscaping, 2016 Inset: Northumbrian Landscaping's 'Tea for Two' at Harrogate 2016. Winner of 'Premier Gold' and 'Best in Show'

local garden centres and similar public businesses. Talking face to face with people is always the best way for the clients to get to know you.’

‘Connecting it all together, and making sure all the profiles tally, and the details tally, and the contact numbers tally, and the websites and pages tally… It all takes time,’ says Paul Cowell. And, as he adds: ‘It’s not billable time. It becomes part of your overheads, you just need to measure and track that time.’

SUCCESS STRATEGY For Peter Cunliffe, community projects go a long way to promote involvement in worthy causes. He says, ‘We completed a project for the Glenridding Hotel that suffered devastating flooding through storm “Desmond” in 2015.

There was a great BALI initiative to restore the garden that gathered a great deal of positive press and also helped the hotel at the same time.’

Denise Ewbank believes that it really comes down to BALI members to make the best use of their opportunities: ‘some companies win an award and then don’t even send out a press release. You have to let people know when you’ve won these great awards. At BALI, we actively suggest members use the marketing opportunity (afforded through winning an award) by contacting the local press,

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or putting out their own press release.’ And Darren Taylor adds that BALI is focused on delivering strategic campaigns across social media this year, as part of its five-year marketing strategy.

Paul Cowell agrees that awards help to raise a company’s profile: ‘It’s twofold really, as an award raises team morale, and it’s nice when other people see your name, raising awareness – it adds to the overall marketing strategy for the year.’

Winning national awards offers an excellent marketing opportunity for a landscape company He concludes: ‘You can see the traffic – it’s just making sure you can trace customer queries back to how/where someone got your number in the first place. That’s the difficult bit in some ways, trying to tie it all in together. It’s important to have systems in place to measure and record it, together with a planned strategy. If you’re investing in a certain social media, then you’re need to make sure it’s in the right direction.’

marketing Photo credit: Anthony Paul Landscape Design. ŠClive Nichols

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Landscaping yards

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seeds

Trentham continues to bloom Pictorial Meadows supplier of innovative meadow seed mixes and related products, is delighted to be continuing its partnership with Prof. Nigel Dunnett at the Trentham Estate in Staffordshire for a third year. Following the outstanding success of the seeded meadow areas over the past two years, 2017 will see Pictorial Meadows products used even more widely across the site.

The existing areas of meadows will be retained and expanded significantly, and new meadow areas will be created. Furthermore, the Pictorial Meadows team will be introducing more products For the first time, the estate will be using grown-to-order PM Turf, which is pre-grown to deliver an instant, flower rich established, sustainable perennial meadow. This will be featured along the side of Trenthams historic lake which was created by Capability Brown, creating a meadow bank, and the turf will also be used on the roundabout at the main entrance to Trentham.

Over 700 sqmt of the Turf in PM’s Treasure Chest mix will be laid in A/W 2016 to be ready for next year’s growing season to flower in spring 2017.

The involvement of Pictorial Meadows at Trentham is the result of an on-going partnership between the company, Michael Walker and the Estate Team at Trentham who are developing an overall strategy for the gardens, and Prof.

Nigel Dunnett who is designing and specifying the current new gardens and landscape developments. As part of this, Pictorial Meadows has been commissioned to grow 8,000

plants for the North and South entrances, Lakeside café and boathouse entrance, and will be installed as part of Prof. Dunnett’s new plantings, alongside 16,000 sqmt of annual meadow sowings using PM’s Classic Mix which will flower next year.

Dan Cornwell, Pictorial Meadows’ Operations Director, said: “Trentham is such a breath-taking estate and we are really thrilled to be continuing the great work we have delivered there for the last two years, which not only includes supply of meadow seeds, but also a bespoke contracting and installation service. In this time we have gotten to know the Estates team very well and our partnership approach and combined experience has helped us to achieve the hugely successful sowing and establishment of the meadows, and which have delivered an amazing visitor response. We can’t wait to build upon what we have already achieved, and are looking forward to introducing our new products and seeing them flourish, flower and bloom in 2017.”

Michael Walker from Trentham Estate commented; “The immediate results achieved with Pictorial Meadows seeded annual meadows immediately engaged visitors as an immediate impression of Nigel Dunnetts new plantings.

We are now preparing for our third year with the expansion of both the annual and perennial plantings which will include vast perennial plantings and the introduction of PM Turf.” www.pictorialmeadows.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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seeds

Splash of colour After taking up golf 18 years ago, Jim Griffith became a member of Henley Golf Club and soon made the most of retirement by playing regular rounds on the course which is set within the grounds of a 200 acre estate of landscaped parkland.

Three years ago Jim started taking more of an active role at the club by helping out around the course, cutting back hedges, trees, seeding, planting and other general maintenance tasks, before he was then joined by other club members wishing to volunteer.

Showing great dedication for their club, the volunteer group decided that the course would benefit from an injection of colour. Having seen the nearby Gaudet Luce Golf Club with a stunning array of flowers, Jim sought the advice of the course manager who then passed on the details of Limagrain.

“Keen to get started in February 2015 we met with Matt Gresty of Limagrain who gave us further ideas, brochures with various seed mixture products and costs. We then identified areas around the golf course for potential flower cultivation. After working out potential costs we were given the go ahead by management and ordered a variety of seed on Matt’s recommendations – Festival, Honey Bee, Aurora and Bio Diversity two year mix.”

With the products in place, Jim and the team started the project by rotavating before seeding in May 2015.

A couple of months later and Jim was soon reporting excellent results.

“Worried about what was weed and what was flower I invited Matt to see our early results in June and to identify weed from flower. Though time consuming, we managed to weed each area and by mid-July our efforts were rewarded with displays around the course. Displays

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continued for three months and comments from members were very positive so we decided to continue the project in 2016. The most popular seed mix was the tall Festival which appeared more prominently than the shorter mixes though Honey Bee provided some of the best displays.”

True to his word, Jim and the team did indeed commence with the project in 2016 by doubling the size of the area and adding a further six plots. Although faced with unfavourable spring weather conditions the team’s efforts were soon rewarded.

“In late July and early August we began to see evidence of blossoms and from August onwards we have now seen magnificent colour. Widening the areas has given depth and adding additional poppy seed to each plot has provided extra colour. The Festival mix was again a real winner.”

The Festival mixture from Limagrain UK’s Colour Splash range contains a variety of beautiful mixtures including Cosmos Sulphureus, Cosmos Bipinnatus Sensation, Sunbow Zinnia, Cornflower and Tithonia Torch. Resulting in a mesmerising wave of colourful flowers, this mixture stands at between 1m to 1.5m, or more, and can easily be seen from a distance.

This popular mixture is just one of eight exquisite mixtures in the Colour Splash range – each meeting the numerous expectations of those who delight in appreciating a significant dash of colour. The Colour Splash mixtures are not only great for aesthetic purposes but they also have a significant impact on the surrounding wildlife in the sense that they provide a refuge that offers a rich and varied source of food. www.limagrain.co.uk

seeds

New semi-rough seed mixture Germinal has added a new seed mixture to its Grade A range of sports seed products with the launch of a new semi-rough mixture for golf courses. Designed specifically for use along the border between fairway and rough areas, A32 Ecological Rough is made up of five different grass species, all of which have been selected to produce a thin, easy to manage grass sward with added ecological benefits.

A32 Ecological Rough has been designed specifically to enable greenkeepers to create fairway margins which adhere to the R&A’s guidelines regarding Pace and Play which state that: ‘Much time can be lost during a round as a result of searching for balls in the rough; it is also a source of much frustration for golfers. Time spent searching for balls can be reduced in the following ways; generally reducing the severity of rough so that, while the rough still provides a challenge, it is less likely to conceal a ball.’

Comprising 60% Corail (strong creeping red fescue), 15% sweet vernal grass, 15% Teno (small leaved Timothy), 5% AberRoyal (browntop bentgrass), and 5% crested dogstail, A32 produces a sward with very thin growth habits with wispy seed heads that don’t usually exceed 30-60 cm in height. These species also offer an attractive and diverse display of foliage throughout the summer, and create a valuable habitat for many species of native wildlife.

“A32 provides the perfect buffer between fairways and more off-line areas of play,” explains Richard Brown, Germinal’s Amenity Sales Manager. “It creates an easy to manage sward which can be maintained via infrequent

cutting to create a thin, semi-rough environment that enables rapid ball retrieval and onward play. It also creates an ecologically valuable, natural grassland habitat, acting as an extension to wildlife-rich areas of thicker rough.”

Sophie Vukelic, Ecology and Environment Consultant at the Sports Turf Research Institute (STRI) explains the ecological value of creating enhanced semi-rough environments: “Grasses are vitally important from an ecological viewpoint,” she describes. “They are the principle components of all grassland habitats, with different species providing unique diversity within machair to the north and chalk downlands in the south. These habitats provide food, shelter and vantage for a range of wildlife communities and are particularly valuable for molluscs through to invertebrates, bryophytes and small mammals. Often unappreciated are the secondary benefits of grasslands, which, by their presence, provide important food resources for bats and birds.”

Additional flower and heather species from Germinal’s extensive portfolio of wildflower seeds can also be added to the standard A32 mixture, giving greenkeepers and course managers the option to create their own bespoke seed mixture. “All of our wildflower mixtures have been deemed ‘Perfect for Pollinators’ by the Royal Horticultural Society,” Richard Brown continues. “That enables greenkeepers to create an enhanced ecological habitat whilst at the same time giving their courses a unique and definitive visual appearance.” www.germinal.com

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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motoring

Grafting away with Isuzu When it comes to light duty trucks for landscapers, the Isuzu Grafter has always been a name to stand out from the crowd. The Grafter’s light chassis means it can offer a much better payload than most of its 3.5t competitors, while its cab-over design means it’s more manoeuvrable on small work sites. Liam Campbell hits the road in the powerful and Euro-6 compliant 150hp variant with a tipper body.

LIAM CAMPBELL AUTOMOTIVE EDITOR DESIGN AND DIMENSIONS Following classic Japanese truck architecture, the Grafter triumphs in load efficiency with its narrow track (1,855mm at rear axles) and relatively short length (6,025mm) – although a shorter wheelbase version is available. True to its truck heritage, the cab tilts forward which makes servicing a lot easier.

Isuzu has employed the traditional ladder type frame with channel section straight side rails and riveted upper flanges. The front axle is fitted with independent, coil springs and dampers, while the rear axle, featuring twin wheels, uses heavy duty leaf springs telescopic shock absorbers.

CAB AREA Climbing into the cab, the first thing that the driver will notice is the visibility. With an elevated seating position, large doors mirrors, a large window in the bulkhead and a low dashboard and windscreen, the driver has a commanding view of the road ahead and of all the obstacles around them.

In terms of specification, the Grafter is fairly basic however. There is remote control central locking, electric windows, a radio/CD player, reach and rake adjustable steering wheel and driver and passenger airbags.

However, the passenger airbag means there’s no room for a glovebox and the only decent storage compartment out of view is the parcel shelf above the windscreen.

LOAD AREA AND TOWING Even with all the extra kit associated with Euro-6, the Isuzu Grafter twin-wheel chassis still tips the scales at just

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2,110kg which includes a driver (75kg), a 90% full tank of fuel and lubricants. For 3.5t operators, that means there’s an impressive 1,390kg left over for payload – although this doesn’t include the body.

Isuzu Trucks has a relationship with TGS Vehicle Conversions of Bristol to provide off-the-shelf tipper and dropside bodies, which reduces lead times. They offer payloads of 1,130kg and 1,005kg respectively, although the payload is greater for single rear-wheel and short wheelbase models.

Both the tipper and dropside bodies measure 3,182mm in length and 1,780mm wide with 400mm side walls.

The side boards have heavy-duty spring catches with two-way hinge assembly and rubber stops to prevent damage, while the fully galvanised rear corner posts are also removable for even greater access.

The floor is made up of a 15mm thick birch panel with non-slip phenol surface, and the cab is protected by a galvanised steel ladder gantry with lower alloy infill at base and upper mesh grill. The tipping gear features a multistage direct lift under floor ram with a ‘body up’ warning light and audible warning buzzer. The tipping

motoring

gear is controlled by a wander lead control.

In additional, the Grafter also has a 7t towing capacity, which means it is able to tow a 3.5t trailer too. Operators must be aware, however, as most landscapers require a tachograph if the mass of the vehicle and trailer exceed 3.5 tonnes.

ON THE ROAD Under the bonnet is Isuzu’s newly-developed 3-litre engine, which is capable of producing up to 150hp and it has a broad torque curve ranging from 1,600 to 2,800rpm. Even with a full load on board, the Isuzu is quick off the mark and pulls away with ease.

The rear-wheel drive layout provides extra traction on dirt tracks, especially when laden, while the suspension does well to cushion the dumps and potholes although,

when it is empty, it tends to ‘bounce’. The Grafter feels most at home at lower speeds as the road and engine noise soon pick up and the engine tends to rev quite high on the motorway with the absence of a sixth gear.

COST OF OWNERSHIP Despite the large 2,999cc displacement, the engine is relatively fuel-efficient at around 27mpg combined which helps keep running costs down. Service intervals, however, will be quite frequent at every 10,000 miles and there’s also the issue of AdBlue as the Grafter features SCR (selective catalytic reduction technology).

However, Isuzu Trucks has a well-respected dealer network and all vehicles come with access to the Isuzu Commercial Assist program with roadside repair and recovery service. The Grafter is back with a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty.

SUMMARY With a decent payload, respectable fuel economy and readily-available conversions, there’s not much to dislike about the Isuzu Grafter. It’s manoeuvrability and great all-round vision means it’s perfect on the work site and short journeys, however, it’s certainly not a motorway vehicle. Priced from £19,450 plus VAT and backed by a three-year warranty, the Isuzu Grafter also makes great financial sense.

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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news

UK sales down Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles started the New Year with a delivery increase of 12.1 per cent. This corresponds to 35,000 vehicles delivered to customers around the world in January. Western Europe remains the largest sales market with 24,200 vehicles (+15.1 per cent).

In the home German market, 8,800 vehicles were handed over to customers in January (+13.8 per cent). Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles also recorded increases in the key European markets of Spain (up +29.0 per cent to 1,000 vehicles), France (up +27.9 per cent to 1,600 vehicles) and

Italy (up +10.5 per cent to 900 vehicles). In Great Britain, 2,400 units were handed over to customers (-5.4 per cent).

In Eastern Europe a clear increase of 12.3 per cent was achieved with 2,600 vehicles delivered.

Outside Europe the regions North America (+22.9 per cent to 700 vehicles), South America (+17.8 per cent to 3,600 vehicles), Africa (+9.5 per cent to 900 vehicles) and Asia-Pacific (+3.5 per cent to 1,400 vehicles) increased their deliveries.

The markets in the Middle East recorded a fall in vehicle deliveries in January (-24.7 per cent to 1,500 vehicles).

Reformulated to enhance performance DLF’s Johnsons Sports Seed has just released its 2017 mixture guide. Whilst no new cultivars have been introduced for 2017, a number of the key mixtures dedicated for sports turf have been reformulated to further enhance performance. All these mixtures have been carefully created using the best cultivars available, taking into account wear tolerance, density, colour, and disease resistance and the cultivars compatibility in a mixture.

The new formulation of Johnsons J Premier Wicket features an increased proportion of No. 1 rated Clementine, which delivers the highest combined rating on the 2017 STRI close mown list. Featuring 40% Clementine and 20% of Monroe, Dickens and Chardin, this perennial ryegrass renovation mixture delivers outstanding shoot density, rapid establishment and high disease resistance.

J Pitch has also been upgraded following end user trials and the growing popularity of Johnson’s 4Turf tetraploid perennial ryegrass cultivars. The 2017 formulation now includes 20% Fabian 4Turf. The mixture is ideal for use on training grounds due to its deeper rooting which delivers increased drought tolerance, enhanced nitrogen efficiency and exceptional disease resistance which all help to maintain turf quality and keep maintenance costs down.

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Not wanting to upset its proven formula, J Premier Pitch has only undergone fine tuning rather than a complete overhaul. The proportion of the 2 highest rated cultivars Eurodiamond and Columbine have been increased to 25% and 40% respectively, for even greater wear tolerance and turf quality.

J Premier Pitch and J Premier Wicket are just two of the Johnsons mixtures available with a ProNitro coating for even faster establishment and stronger growth. www.dlf.co.uk (More seed news p 41)

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Their staff are friendly and efficient and have over 50 years combined experience in the plastics pipe industry.

Over 90% of their products come from here in the UK, with just a few from Germany, France and Italy. Plastics-Express buy in bulk, buy well and have no expensive overheads all the savings are passed on to their customers Before you buy check out their prices on www.plastics-express.co.uk

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The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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tractors

Cut costs this Spring with Kubota’s cashback mower offer

Kubota’s popular ride-on mower cashback programme is back by popular demand again this year, offering professional lawn-keepers the chance to take advantage of this fantastic incentive scheme.

The leading groundcare manufacturer is offering cashback opportunities across a number of its powerful, versatile and economic ride-on mower solutions, allowing operators to achieve high quality finishes quickly and

efficiently, for less. The incentive is open to anyone who purchases a T or GR Series ride-on mower from a Kubota dealer across the UK. Available from the 1st February until the 30th June 2017, customers can claim a significant £300 cashback on the GR2120(S), whilst £200 cashback is available on both the GR1600(ID) and T1880 ride-on mowers. www.kubota.co.uk

Dedication and hard work Over the last decade, ANB Groundcare has continued to go from strength to strength thanks to Kubota.

Back in 2006, Alastair Brooker founded ANB Groundcare with just £20,000 in the bank and an uncertainty of which direction to take the business. Today, the Berkshire-based company is well on its way to a £1 million-a-year turnover, a feat achieved with dedication, hard work and a diverse fleet of machinery.

The site team has now grown to seven, with Alastair’s wife Lucy in charge of the brand design and website and financial support, whilst fellow colleague Bronwen provides office management and admin to an ever-growing office. Originally aiming to pursue a career in farm management, having studies that for four years at University, Alastair soon came to realise that without a family background in agriculture, this ambition would be very difficult to accomplish.

After leaving his job with an agricultural contractor, he

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bought a mower, trailer, hedge cutter, strimmer and hand tools before placing an ad in the Maidenhead Advertiser. Soon after, Alastair started to obtain his first handful of clients.

The business, based at Waltham St Lawrence, has grown significantly over the last ten years, along with it’s large fleet of specialist machinery. This includes a number of machines from Kubota’s groundcare range including a 36-hp STV36 mid-range compact tractor with a lightweight chassis, front linkage and extra hydraulic services, an RTV-X900 utility vehicle and a G26 II high-dump rotary collection mower with a 54-inch cutting deck.

Another part of ANB Groundcare’s business is that of winter gritting and they initially used a quad bike to pull one of the salt spreaders for covering footpaths, before Alastair recognised the driver’s need for better protection in tough weather conditions. Replaced by a 21-hp RTV-X900 which now assists with log deliveries and grounds maintenance

tractors and estate duties, the latest vehicle has been an all round invaluable asset to the company’s operations. www. anb-groundcare.co.uk.

Strength and efficiency

Cub Cadet have launched the latest generation of lawn tractors, with 13 brand new models being created within its newly developed Enduro Series. The new series, sets a new benchmark when it comes to power, performance and robust quality.

Within this series are three powerful ranges; XT1, XT2 and XT3.

Every model across the XT range has a number of benefits in common, such as having a market leading cut, collect and mulch system, an extremely stable and smooth V-Belt system with a smooth hydrostatic drive system. They also have the tightest turning circle on the market and an extremely strong drive system with drive harmonisation, providing smooth, efficient powered delivery. The solid and

corrosion resistant e-coated frame provides long lasting protection and class leading stability, whilst the engines deliver power, performance and a flawless drive.

Each of the three ranges, have been specifically designed to suit a variety of gardening mowing challenges.

The XT1 lawn tractors are ideally equipped for mowing, collecting and transporting clippings. Powered by Cub Cadet, 547cm3 engines, the four tractors in this range benefit from a smooth, hydrostatic drive system and a safe and efficient button blade start to activate the cutting blades.

They can even be expanded with a range of accessories offering further versatility and effectiveness.

For greater mowing challenges, the XT2 range provides even higher levels of power, control functions and durability.

These five models are the most agile in the XT Series and feature the Cub Cadet TIGHT TURN xTREME, the innovative technology delivering the tightest turning circle on the market, making them ideal for working on tough terrain and around busy gardens and obstacles. The V-Twin Kawasaki engine provide superior power and higher-torque and these innovative machines even have a Bluetooth app, called Cub Connect which keeps track of inspections and servicing.

The XT3 range is built to tackle the hardest tasks, where maximum strength and power is required. Designed for the toughest demands, the four models within the Cub Cadet XT3 range are the ultimate lawn tractors. The XT3s a brimming with power with which to mow even tall, dense grass, and transport larger loads. The rear discharge models come equipped with an impressive 360L grass bag and feature an Anti-Dust System, a multi-layered dust apron to protect against swirling grass and dirt.

Nick Hills, General Manager for Cub Cadet UK, told The Landscaper, “The new range of XTs further cements Cub Cadet’s position at the forefront of garden machinery innovations and we are sure they will prove to be highly popular with anyone who values power and a high quality of cut, no matter what the terrain.” www.cubcadet.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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artificial grass

Designed and constructed for landscaping market Quickgrass stock and cut to order a premium range of artificial grasses specifically designed and constructed for the landscaping market. These are very different from what you will see in a typical DIY store or cheap internet store.

All their artificial grasses are manufactured in Holland and Belgium using the finest ‘Soft Touch’ yarns, made

from 100% Polyethylene with a double thick coated latex backing .This is very different to most other artificial grasses. This makes our grass range extremely soft and durable, far heavier and robust and when laid actually appears like a natural looking grass.

If you are a landscaper or garden designer and are interested in receiving one of their ‘Soft Touch’ landscaper trade packs they will arrange for samples of artificial grass to be sent out to you.

All the artificial grass is held in stock at their premises in Worcestershire and is cut to order and delivered directly to the installation location or your own location.

Tel 01527 579 841 www.quickgrass.co.uk

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All angles covered with Rugby 360

TigerTurf UK, has unveiled a new rugby-specific surface for schools and clubs looking to invest in an all-weather, year-round pitch.

Designed to meet the recently revised requirements of World Rugby Regulation 22, TigerTurf ’s Rugby 360 promises to deliver long-term safety, durability and performance for players at all levels.

Boasting a higher stitch rate than equivalent surfaces aimed at football, the turf ’s denser carpet and tough XWR yarn are engineered to withstand the precise intensity of rugby training and fixtures.

However, for those looking to really make the most of their TigerTurf pitch, Rugby 360 is also suitable for football – meeting the requirements of the FIFA Quality Programme to give facility owners confidence that they can get the best return from their investment.

The launch comes after the announcement that the RFU will be investing in 100 3G rugby pitches over the next 4 years, as part of its Rugby World Cup legacy plans and revised National Facilities Strategy.

The pilot scheme for the RFU’s Rugby Turf facilities has already commenced, with TigerTurf having been awarded two initial projects and work having already commenced at Hornets RFC in Weston-super-Mare.

Roy Lavery, Sales Manager (Framework) for TigerTurf UK, commented: “With the RFU having pledged to invest in floodlit 3G pitches around the country, it ’s important that there are products available that are safe and designed specifically for the needs of such a physically demanding sport. We’re delighted to be able to provide that with Rugby 360, and look forward to being able to contribute to the rapidly improving facilities that are taking the sport from strength to strength.” www.tigerturf.co.uk.

artificial grass

New artificial grass range Launching for 2017, Natural Paving Products (UK) Ltd has introduced Lazigraze, a range of premium artificial grass and supporting installation, care and maintenance products to offer a complete lowmaintenance landscaping portfolio.

Currently available in four different specifications, 20 Premium (20mm pile height), 30 Premium (30mm pile height), 32 Luxury (32mm pile height) and 27 Super Luxury (27mm pile height), the Lazigraze range is composed of polyethylene (PE) monofilament with polypropylene (PP) texturized root zone, providing outstanding durability. Incorporating a high quality backing, each of the Lazigraze products also features a multi tone green pile, with tan thatch to give a superior natural finish. What’s more, all four grades of the artificial grass come with a 10-year UV guarantee and are child and pet friendly.

The addition of Lazigraze to Natural Paving Products

portfolio means that merchants and stockists can now get all of their low maintenance landscaping products from one supplier. Supporting this further, the company has also launched a comprehensive range of artificial grass installation, care and maintenance products, which includes adhesive, jointing tape, U-pins, a general purpose cleanser and a powerful spot cleaner.

The Lazigraze Adhesive is a high-bond strength, green adhesive that provides a secure fix to jointing tape and or a sub base. When paired with the strong geo textile Lazigraze Jointing Tape and galvanised U-pins, the range offers complete peace of mind for a secure and professional installation. For on going care, the Lazigraze Cleanser provides effective general purpose cleaning and will remove dirt, grease, animal droppings, algae, moss and a wide range of soiling, as well as suppress bacteria – leaving a freshly mown lawn scent. For particularly stubborn stains, the Lazigraze Spot Cleaner is a powerful solution that remains safe and easy to use. www.lazigraze.co.uk

The new Rotobrush RB120 is designed to rejuvenate and maintain sports field artificial turf and help keep it in top condition. Dirt collecting between the fibres encourages algae growth and reduces drainage, causing deterioration.

The Rotobrush offers a quick and easy method of removing dirt in a single pass, with a closed deck to prevent loss of collected infill material, to bring a heavily compacted surface back to life. www.gkbmachines.com

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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horticulture

Historic anniversary

Members of the Notcutts family and the local community gather for the unveiling of a blue plaque at the home of Roger Crompton Notcutt, founder of Notcutts Garden Centres, in Woodbridge, Suffolk.

A historic blue plaque has been unveiled at the home of Roger Crompton Notcutt, who founded Notcutts Garden Centres 120 years ago. The plaque was unveiled on Saturday, February 11, in Woodbridge, Suffolk, by Roger Crompton Notcutt’s greatgranddaughter and Notcutts Vice Chairman Caroline Notcutt, alongside the Mayor of Woodbridge, Councillor Stephen Attwell.

The blue plaque recognises the achievements of Roger Crompton Notcutt as a horticultural pioneer, and in celebration of 120 years since Notcutts Garden Centres was established in the town. The plaque can be seen at the front of The Old House – Roger’s Georgian home of almost 30 years, which is now Notcutts’ offices.

Caroline Notcutt, Vice Chairman of Notcutts Garden Centres, said: “It has been a pleasure to recognise the achievements of my great-grandfather, Roger Crompton Notcutt, today with such a special commemorative plaque. It is wonderful to see that his passion for gardening is still at the local community and will continue to be recognised for generations to come.”

Roger Crompton Notcutt founded Notcutts Garden Centres in 1897 after doctors advised him to pursue an outdoor life due to ill health. Roger’s keen interest

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in nature and gardening inspired him to open his first nursery and shop in Woodbridge town centre – on the same site as the current Notcutts Garden Centre in Woodbridge. Roger was a member of the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Flower Show Committee for 30 years and was a member of the Woodbridge Urban District Council for 33 years, including a period as elected chairman. In 1934 Roger presented the National Trust with four acres of woodland at Kyson Hill in Woodbridge, overlooking the river Deben, which are to be preserved for all time in its natural state.

120 years after it launched, Notcutts has remained family-run and Roger’s great-granddaughter Caroline Notcutt is Vice Chairman today. The business has grown from strength-to-strength and has become a leading name in horticulture and home gardening, with 18 garden centres across the UK. Nick Burrows, CEO, Notcutts Garden Centres, said: “We are thrilled to be celebrating our 120th anniversary milestone this year. We have exciting plans throughout the year where we’ll be honouring our family heritage, as well as celebrating our passion for gardening and looking forward to the years ahead.” www.notcutts.co.uk.

horticulture

Alpine range

Confirmed highlights

Available from this month, the Hawkesmill Nurseries alpine range is growing in size and variety choice each year. These beauties are perfect for both the experienced and beginner gardener, as they are surprisingly easy to grow.

All plants are individually bar-coded and available with full colour POS. There is also the option to have attractive, weatherproof pricing strips supplied, which can be attached to display benches to give a clear pricing message.

Brand new for 2017....all 9cm pots now come in newly introduced re-usable trays of 12. The 1 litre pots option is provided as 8 plants per tray, 30 trays per trolley. Also available in this years alpine range are mixed 6 packs which come in 6 x 9cm pots/pack, full colour carry handle, seasonal selection 14 packs to a shelf, 84 to a trolley. Hawkesmill Nurseries are also unusual in that all their plants are supplied in square pots, rather than the standard round type.

With stunning varieties such as, Acaena, Ajuga, Aubretia, Dianthus, Phlox and Sedum... to name but a few, customers will be spoilt for choice!

Richard Evans Sales Director explains “The Hawkesmill team have always loved their alpines and it seems that there is a growing trend for the consumer to be loving them more too! Gradually people are realising just how easy these are to grow and also just what a fabulously diverse selection of alpines is available nowadays. So we are pleased to be of fering another extensive range to our customers in 2017.”

As with all Hawkesmill Nurseries plants, alpine orders can be placed in advance and dispatched on specif ied week numbers or when ready, with top up stock available weekly. The retailer can also place orders on an ad hoc basis from the weekly availabilit y lists.

Hawkesmill Nurseries is a family run business with over 40 years growing experience - providing qualit y seasonal plants to Retail Nurseries, Garden Centres and also more recently to Landscapers and Garden Designers too. They are based in the hear t of the countr y having their own satellite nurseries all within a 25 mile radius of the main production and dispatch site. sales@hawkesmillnurseries.co.uk

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) have announced a selection of confirmed highlights at this year’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show (4 – 9 July), supported by Viking Cruises, including new category ‘Gardens for a Changing World’, empowering gardeners to meet the challenges we face in our ever-changing, uncertain world.

Gardens for a Changing World Extreme rainfall is one of the consequences scientists claim is a result of climate change, and 21-year-old Will Williams, who made his debut at the show last year, returns with ‘Holding Back the Flood’, highlighting a natural solution to flood prevention, inspired by the village of Pickering, North Yorkshire, a town prone to flood devastation.

Increased rainfall has also inspired first-time designer Rhiannon Williams, who is promoting the increased need for sustainable rainwater management within residential areas.

‘Brownfield – Metamorphosis’, by town planner and designer Martyn Wilson, explores the power of plants to regenerate naturally and become established among industrial ruins. Andreas Christodoulou and Jonathan Davies are dismissing the manicured lawns of modern garden design and encouraging urbanites to transform city garden spaces into natural ‘forest glades’.

Show Gardens Show sponsor, Viking Cruises have joined forces with acclaimed designer Paul Hervey-Brooks with a garden inspired by the overseas destinations they travel to. Multi-RHS Gold medal winning, Andrew Fisher-Tomlin and Dan Bowyer will shine a light on the work of Blind Veterans UK with a community garden for members, staff and volunteers that will be rebuilt at one of the charity’s centres after the show.

Zoflora returns this year with a large woodland play garden for children and adults with disabilities such as autism.

Accessible and inclusive, the garden aims to reconnect children with nature through play. The garden resembles a woodland glade. Playful planting and the use of materials will stimulate the senses of sight, smell, touch, taste and sound, while allowing the children to experience reasonable risk as they play. The garden will be relocated to the Caudwell Children’s Centre in Shropshire.

Continued >>

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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horticulture

Floral highlights More plants and flowers are sold per square metre at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show than anywhere else in the UK. This year, the Floral Marquee will house 98 specialist nurseries and National Plant Collection holders from across the UK. Six new nurseries will be at the show this year including Ottershaw Cacti (Surrey), selling their rare and unusual collection of cacti and succulents, Palms Exotics (Hampshire), for those wanting to turn their garden into a holiday oasis, and Strictly Daylilies (Cambridgeshire), the ideal plant for first-time gardeners as they need little or no care.

Wildlife features Wildlife is a key theme at this year’s show to raise awareness of the UK’s declining wildlife population* and encouraging visitors to ‘Green Grey Britain’ with a rich diversity of plants that are vital for the future of the UK’s bees, butterflies and other pollinators.

The tropical Butterfly Dome returns this year filled with thousands of exotic butterflies, surrounded by a wildflower meadow, accompanied by nectar-rich plants for our native butterflies, and caterpillar food plants such as nettles, grasses and heather. The Floral Design Studio will be full of wildlife-inspired floral displays, and schools from the South East of England are taking ‘a walk on the wild side’ with their entries to the annual Scarecrow Competition. Across the weekend, activities will be centred on wildlife conservation including face painters, a children’s cookery school, entertainers and much more.

The RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show will run from 4 – 9 July with an exclusive Preview Evening** held on Monday 3 July. For further information or to buy tickets, please visit the RHS website at www.rhs.org.uk/hamptoncourt

Insight and inspiration from Holland It was an action packed few days for garden centres and suppliers attending the HTA Garden Retail Study Tour in Holland.

The tour began with a visit to the Elho factory where the group heard the latest trend information and ideas from this family company that was established in

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1964. The offices themselves are a design masterpiece and the home from home showroom layouts are impressive, as is the factory itself which turns out over 60 million pieces a year. Fifty percent of the electricity generated by the company windmill runs the office and factory complex, with the remaining 50% being sold back to the grid! If that wasn’t enough they also have a number of bee hives onsite (and produce Elho honey) to educate visiting school groups about the role of bees as pollinators.

In the evening the group attended the Garden Retail Experience Gala Dinner returning the next day to tour the exhibition in detail. The Garden Retail Experience is not a trade show but an inspiration event using themes to bring together groups of products to inspire. The overall theme for this year’s event was ‘Growing Emotion’ highlighting that by creating the right emotion in customers can led to increased sales. Tours from Laurens Doesborgh and Romeo Summers provided great insight into the ideas behind the themes and the tangible ways in which garden centres can bring these stories to life.

From an inspiring ‘back to nature’ entrance display, a mini festival with mismatched plants to a butterfly house instore and a rain garden feature there was plenty of food for thought. The day finished with a visit to a garden centre – Ranzijn Nieuw-Vennep – a family owned group which is expanding rapidly in the Netherlands. As to be expected there were impressive displays of early bulbs and house plants.

Friday saw the study tour group visit the famous ‘Clock’ plant and flower auction at Aalsmeer, hosted

by Paul Moors and Brian Redman from Garden Centre Fresh. Paul, an ex-clock buyer provided an overview and the group was suitably impressed by the ef ficiency of the clock process watching stock moving through at a rate of knots. Flora Holland then provided a fascinating tour of the processing and distribution centre and the organised chaos of moving the trolleys to the right place prior to distribution.

The tour concluded with a trip to Hilverda De Boer, one of The Netherlands largest cut flower exporters, to see the operation in action as it gears up for Valentine’s Day and hear about the most popular flowers in dif ferent countries. Within 24 hours the flowers seen on the ground could be on sale in Japan, the Middle East or the US – no mean feat!

horticulture

Learner of the Year Awards Horticulture trainees Brooke McKenzie and John Boyd have been short-listed for Lantra Scotland’s Land-based and Aquaculture Learner of the Year Awards and will find out if they have won at a glittering ceremony in the Doubletree by Hilton Dunblane Hydro Hotel on Thursday 2nd March 2017.

21-year-old Brooke, from Croftfoot in Glasgow, is doing a Modern Apprenticeship SVQ Level 2 in Horticulture through Daldowie Training Centre, while working for the Southside Housing Association in Glasgow. After completing her course, she hopes to secure a full-time job with Southside Housing, learning more about different approaches to horticulture around the world.

Brooke said “I was chuffed to get nominated in the first place and now I’m even prouder to get through

to the final. Everyone at my work has been wishing me good luck and now I’m really looking forward to going along to the awards to see how I get on.”

John, aged 25 from Port Glasgow, is doing an SVQ Level 2 in Horticulture through Glasgow Clyde College, while working as a gardener for In-Work Enterprise. John came onto the project through a scheme called Future Jobs, part of the Inverclyde Community Development Trust Programme. After completing his Level 3 Parks Gardens and Green Space qualification and PA1 and PA6, his dream is to broaden his knowledge of the horticulture industry in other locations.

The Learner of the Year Awards, organised by Lantra Scotland, the sector skills council for the land-based, aquaculture and environmental industries, are now in their 15th year of celebrating the achievements of trainees within Scotland’s rural sector and encouraging employers to invest in the next generation of talent. www.lantra.co.uk/Scotland/tickets

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@PROPICKUP4X4 The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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horticulture

Sanctuary Garden for Hampton Court The Perennial Sanctuary Garden at this summer’s RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show will raise awareness of the only charity dedicated to supporting everyone in the horticulture industry. Designed by Tom Massey, who won an RHS Gold Medal and ‘Best Conceptual Garden’ at Hampton Court last year with his first ever show garden, it is part of a new category at the show - ‘Gardens for a Changing World’.

The design takes a spiral form, with a changing colour palette of plants to symbolically represent the journey a Perennial client makes as they overcome difficulty with Perennial’s help. People turn to Perennial for financial and emotional help when they are faced by challenges such as illness, injury, poverty, debt and old age and many describe the help Perennial offers simply as a ‘lifeline’.

Anita Bates, Director of Marketing and Development at Perennial comments: “Tom’s design for the garden represents the difference Perennial makes to thousands of horticulturists each year, helping them move through tough times to safety. We are excited to be working with a great team of partners from across the industry to bring this garden together and showcase the best in British horticulture.”

The spiral shape of the garden is planted with a rich mix of plants. At its outer edge the vibrant red colours represent the inner chaos that can come from being at crisis point. As the visitor takes the journey into the garden following a winding gravel path, sounds from outside of the garden fade. The planting becomes taller and more immersive and the colour scheme moves through stimulating yellows and oranges to more restful purples, blues and finally pure green. Towards the centre of the design the planting is simplified, leading to a calm sanctuary at the centre of the garden with bespoke York stone benches and a large reflective

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horticulture

water bowl. Here the planting changes to a single species of towering bamboo that screens the outside world, creating a safe haven and place for peaceful reflection hidden from view.

The team behind the garden also includes multiple gold medal winning contractor Landform Consultants, as well as top British suppliers including nursery Hortus Loci and stone paving specialists London Stone.

Tree sales up by 22% ONE OF the UK’s leading nurseries in Hereford has recently announced its tree sales were up 22% year on year from August 2016 until the end of January 2017.

Wyevale Nurseries tree sales have been driven by domestic landscapers and landscape contractors, who it says are concerned with biosecurity.

Adam Dunnett, Sales and Marketing Director at Wyevale Nurseries, said: “One of the buzz words in the

industry at the moment is biosecurity and ensuring that plant stock is coming from a known source without the danger of importing pests or diseases.

“Trees are a particularly sensitive subject when it comes to biosecurity. Nearly 90% of our tree sales come from UK grown stock and 98% of those sales are from our own production.

The other 10% come from all over the world and are vigorously screened before entering the country.

“Sales growth has been generated by a mix of newer ‘garden’ varieties such as Acer rubrum ‘Brandywine’, Amelanchier x grand. ‘Robin Hill’, Betula utilis jacquemontii and Liquidambar styraciflus ‘Worplesdon’.

“We have also seen a bit of a comeback from some old favourites such as Carpinus betulus ‘Frans Fontaine’, Crataegus laevigata ‘Paul’s Scarlet’, Prunus ‘Sunset Boulevard’ and Prunus avium.”

A number of Wyevale Nurseries key tree species are grown from seed with known seed provenance, examples would be Fagus (beech), Carpinus (hornbeam) and Quercus (oak).

Adam added: “We have also seen an increase in demand for pleached trees, mainly Carpinus betulus and we’re able to create these to customer’s size requirements. Pleached are commonly used to create a green screen above a fence level or a raised wall. We have a selection of pleached Carpinus and Prunus varieties available as container grown trees.”

The product selection available from Wyevale Nurseries is enviable across the industry and the talented team regularly introduces new, award-winning plant varieties.

Its main business is to supply garden centres, landscape contractors, local authorities, foresters and landowners with a comprehensive array of trees, shrubs, hedging, herbaceous and specimen plants. www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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feature

An Innovative urban farm and social enterprise based across multiple derelict sites in West London. They train unemployed young people in landscaping and horticulture, and produce a range of edible and ornamental plants for sale. David Curtis reports the UK from Canada about seven years ago after studying horticulture and food production.

“We are a social enterprise, a registered charity and commercial company, our charitable objectives are to help unemployed young people back into employment as well as engage the local community into growing food. All the enterprises we run, including the landscaping operation, are designed to make a profit – however all the profits are ploughed back into training.

“The Kitchen garden is used to train people about all aspects of food production from composting and seed sowing to harvesting. We grow herbs, vegetables, flowers and fruit. Some of this produce is sold in the various community and family days we organise. We promote these events by extensive use of social media and public relation campaigns.

“The young people that come to work with us come at the suggestion of job centres, probation offices and other social services – they are of course all volunteers.

“We started our landscaping business in 2015.

Previously we were mainly horticultural which is extremely Cultivate London – Hounslow Cultivate London’s CEO Adrienne Attorp Their aim is to have a long term impact on the lives of young people and change the way Londoners think about their fresh produce and where it comes from.

Cultivate London also run a professional landscape gardening service. They look after both commercial and residential properties whilst training apprentices in the sustainable management of gardens and green spaces.

I met up with Cultivate London’s CEO Adrienne Attorp at their Salopian Garden Site in Hounslow to talk about the organisations aims and objectives. Adrienne came to

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feature

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feature

The young people that come to work with us come at the suggestion of job centres, probation offices and other social services – they are of course all volunteers “The landscaping business is doing extremely well, we have a large new contract at Brentford Lock West and other contracts with Hounslow Council. We run the business on a strictly commercial basis with the aim of profitability.

However, all the profits are ploughed back into training.

“Currently we have five professional members of staff and five apprentices. Over the course of a year hundreds of local people get involved over our four sites”.

Cultivate London’s awards: n Named the 2012 Obser ver Food Monthly’s “Producer of the Year” n Received the 2013 Hounslow Business Award for “Best Business for Apprenticeships and Employment for Young People”, and recently “Highly Commended” in the same category at the 2014 London Business Awards. n Were runners up in the “Best Food Enterprise” category at London’s inaugural Urban Food Awards (2014)

As food prices will continue to rise as we exit the EU ways to grow your own, on your doorstep, are likely to become increasingly popular.

The allotment is certainly nothing new. For those who lived through World War II - and remember Dig for Victory - the idea of urban farming will be familiar. For younger generations, however, it is a novel concept, but given that in London alone about 60% of all land is green space and at least half of households have gardens, it makes sense.

The urban farming renaissance is producing green shoots in the most lifeless backwaters of the world’s cities; the result is happier and healthier residents and a more desirable environment.

Today’s resurgence in do-it-yourself agriculture is not being driven by government edicts despite the major strategic benefits it brings. Swathes of grass roots enthusiasts are filling tubs with earth, composting their food waste, collecting rainwater and growing lettuce, tomatoes and herbs on balconies, terraces and any other available space. For the very poor this is the urge to eat and for those better off it satisfies a desire to connect with nature.

Adrienne and her team are improving the life and prospects of many young people and making London a more pleasant place to live.

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therapeutic and very hands on. It is ideal for helping people with mental issues or any other disability as it is a great weapon for increasing the volunteers confidence.

However horticulture does not offer the same follow-on work opportunities to be found in landscaping.

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The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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grass

Battle between synthetic and natural surfaces An artificial turf pitch (ATP) is able to host training and non-competition matches during winter months or during periods of heavy play thus decreasing the footfall on natural turf pitches when it requires. Synthetic Specialist for Charterhouse Turf Machinery, Curtis Allen, explores the misnomers in the battle between synthetic and natural surfaces and explains how a consistent and effective maintenance regime will ensure maximum returns on the investment.

Using an artificial surface in parallel can provide relief to an over-stretched natural pitch, with both surfaces having their own pros and cons. There’s still a great deal of scepticism around artificial surfaces, even after many years since its introduction to the market. As a multifaceted company, Charterhouse Turf Machinery understands both sides of the

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argument, even when I walk into a facility and hear comments such as “it’ll take my job”, “it’s bad for the environment” and “it’s not as good as natural turf ”. It doesn’t help that I’ve seen on numerous occasions an ATP being installed without the groundsman being consulted - and then being told to look after it! They can be forgiven for asking - how, when and with what when this happens. In these sort of cases our response is to break through with education and explanation, especially with all of the misnomers surrounding artificial surfaces flying about.

We understand it can be difficult to take pride and ownership over an ATP. Maintaining natural turf is all about creating a surface which is ever more durable, aesthetically pleasing and stronger. What can be achieved with the different soils, seed and fertilisers available is almost limitless. The fact is

grass

an ATP is a carpet and always will be a carpet and when it is first laid on day one, it is as good as it will ever be. However, there are standards which need to be achieved and maintained for safety, longevity and governing body accreditations. It is a common misunderstanding that a synthetic pitch has no maintenance requirements. Whilst the maintenance does not need to be complex or costly it does need to be consistent and effective whether the surface be Sand Dressed, Sand Filled or 3G. The footfall on a synthetic surface will compact the infill and flatten the fibres; the surface will become hard under foot, drainage ability will be reduced and if the fibres are no longer supported they will lay horizontal. If left like that, and play continues, the most vulnerable part of the fibre is exposed to loading and UV - causing premature wear and breakage to reduce the overall expected life. Damage caused by flattened fibres can take as much as 7 years off the lifespan of the carpet. I often get asked “how long will my ATP last?” – I’ve seen pitches being replaced after 3 years and some still going after 27 years; it is all down to usage and maintenance.

When calculating a maintenance regime it is important to tie it to the usage - the idea of brushing every ten hours refers to the entire pitch area being used in the normal fashion by, say, twenty two players.

Though this may not always be the case as the surface can sometimes accommodate up to three games of

eighteen players each which increases the total pairs of feet to fifty four (plus staff, referees and parents).

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NEWS

For landscape professionals gardeners wanting to achieve a high-quality, striped turf finish in small to medium gardens and grassed areas.

Class-leading collection is paramount to the Harrier 41 Pro’s design. The new shape cast aluminum deck, designed using aerospace airflow technology, provides maximum airflow for optimum collection performance. A new grass bag design with integrated cover drafts dust and debris

Hayter have introduced the Harrier 41 Pro to their range. Designed for landscape professionals, this mower is an all-new addition to the Harrier rear-roller mower line-up that’s been integral to the Hayter portfolio for more than 30 years.

Available February 2017, the Harrier 41 Pro is specifically designed to meet the needs of landscape contractors and

away from the operator and aids collection of up to 60 litres of grass cuttings so you can mow for longer. With this model, Hayter also introduces new Vari-Pitch™ technology*, which automatically adjusts the deck to increase airflow when set to cut longer grass, improving collection when conditions are most challenging.

The new Harrier 41 Pro features a Honda GCV160 engine and a split rear-roller for easy turning with no turf markings.

Specifically designed to withstand the rigors of commercial mowing, other pro-friendly features include heavy-duty wheels and front and rear lifting handles to aid transport.

Added to this is the incorporation of a Trim Side, enabling the operator to cut right to the edge, making it ideal for cutting right up to borders, retaining walls and raised flower beds – reducing the need to strim after mowing.

The mower has an RRP of £855. www.hayter.co.uk

Cornwall’s award-winning The Lost Gardens of Heligan estate has invested in a new fleet of 10 machines plus ancillary equipment valued at over £200,000, in a John Deere Financial five-year lease hire deal including PowerGard protection.

Over 40 services, events, maintenance, gardens and landscapes staff were assessed and marked on training and operating procedures for each new machine, to qualify for BAGMA certification. www.JohnDeere.co.uk

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excavators

The “Diggers of quality holes” Bonthrone Building & Groundworks Contractors of Bankfoot near Perth has purchased its first Volvo compact excavator following a successful demonstration and competitive evaluation. The new 2.5 tonne EC27C has been supplied by Volvo’s utility dealer for the north of Scotland CSM Sales Ltd. The EC27C is powered by a Volvo 1.6 litre low emission Stage III engine coupled to a load sensing hydraulic system for optimum performance and fuel saving. Simultaneous control of slew and offset movements provides faster, more precise performance due to the right joystick control lever that features an electronically proportional roller. This allows the operator to accurately adjust hydraulic flow as needed.

All hydraulic functions are performed in total independence for more control and less delay when handling multiple tasks. An automatic two-speed travel system engages when operating in high speed mode, automatically shifting gear from high to low according to the travel load. Another feature for increased efficiency is the standard auto-idling system that lowers engine speed to idle if a control is not

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used for five seconds. The engine reverts to the pre-selected speed almost instantly when any control is moved. This system delivers lower fuel consumption, longer engine life and less environmental noise.

The EC27C features Volvo’s industry-leading comfortable cab for less fatigue and more production. The ergonomically-designed cab offers greater leg and foot room, making it one of the most spacious in its category and the machine supplied to Bonthrone features the optional high back seat which includes the servo hydraulics levers integral to the seat unit for maximum operator comfort.

Adding to the flexibility of the new 2.5 tonne machine, Ian Bonthrone has added an Engcon Tiltrotator to the machine.

“We were already acquainted with the benefits of having a tiltrotator with one fitted to our twelve tonne excavator, so we decided to enhance the flexibility of the smaller machine as well,” says Ian. “Already it’s paying dividends for us, particularly when working in confined spaces on small sites.” www.volvoce.co.uk

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hardscaper

Vivid Landscape at UK City of Culture Natural Paving Products has supplied more than 1000 square metres of high-quality natural sandstone to be used for paving, steps, seating units and copings at the Centre For Digital Innovation (C4DI) in Hull.

The C4DI has been set up as a pioneering specialist business space to further build and connect Hull’s technology talent. The £4m centre is home to a collective of digital companies and individuals who have an interest in furthering their own tech abilities, or are keen to keep their fingers on the pulse of an ever-changing market. From corporate innovation to tech incubation the centre offers a diverse portfolio of services designed to help businesses achieve success.

With a distinctive modern feel, the C4DI was in need of an external landscape and paving option, which complemented this ethos. To attain the desired look Natural Paving Product’s Commercial Team supplied its Diamond Sawn York Mix sandstone. The paving was supplied in both 600mm x 450mm and 600mm x 750mm sizes. With a warm multi colour palette, the flagstone creates a dynamic aesthetic, which is in perfect harmony with the culture of the centre and surrounding area.

A key consideration whenever specifying material

for a commercial project is durability and availability of component sizes. This was the case for C4DI, which needed a long-term natural solution that would require little maintenance whilst providing functionality of steps and seating in the same material.

The first phase of activity consisted of over 1000 square metres of 50mm thick York Mix paving, as well as 80 linear metres of seating units, 190 linear metres of steps with granite inlays to assist the partially sighted and over 40 linear metres of wall copings. During the second phase of activity, an additional 450 square metres of York Mix paving was installed along with 30 linear metres of coping stones.

Mike Jepps, National Sales Manager – Commercial, at Natural Paving Products, commented: “This was a commercial project with a difference. The Centre For Digital Innovation is as contemporary in style as it is in practice; therefore it was necessary to offer a selection of paving and ancillary items to complement. York Mix sandstone is one of our most attractive and durable products and with it being laid in such vast quantities at C4DI the result is truly spectacular. This project will stand the test of time and continue to look as good as it does now for many years to come.” www.naturalpaving.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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hardscaper

Premium natural stone Charcon, the commercial hard landscaping division of Aggregate Industries, has successfully completed delivery of over 4,000m 2 of natural stone to Ashton Market Square in Tameside, Greater Manchester.

Part of a masterplan to transform the historic square into a modern and vibrant place, Tameside Council were looking for a paving solution that would preserve the character of the area, add design interest and showcase the space at its best.

Inspired by Salford City Council’s successful Greengate public realm project, Tameside specified 4,100m 2 of Italian Porphyry natural stone paving,

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including all of its ten distinct colour variations and hues. In addition to its striking aesthetics, Italian Porphyry was selected for its hard wearing, frost and skid resistant properties ensuring it would perform on durability in an area of high footfall.

Charcon attended multiple design meetings and provided technical laying and delivery support for the Council’s in-house contracting team. A well-established supply network in Northern Italy meant that sourcing the full range of colour variations from a variety of different quarries was no issue.

As a busy, active market place, open seven days a week, the Council wanted minimal disruption. Upgrade

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works had to be phased, with parts of the market closed off during certain stages and supporting traffic measures put in place. Partnering with local merchant, Benchmark Building Supplies, Charcon was able to store all of the natural stone to be supplied at their Ashton compound, calling off necessary stocks as required on the job just a couple of miles down the road.

Mike Davies, Category Manager for Charcon, said: “We were delighted to not only supply Tameside Council with the volume of Italian Porphyry natural stone required, in the full range of hues, but also to support them with design and delivery. Our partnership with Benchmark was also critical to ensure we were able to supply the project in a timely fashion. With natural stone taking care, attention and time to lay correctly, being able to call off smaller quantities at a time really assisted project delivery.

“Premium natural stone, such as our Italian Porphyry, is becoming more and more popular in public realm spaces. It’s distinctive and looks great, is incredibly hard wearing and is reasonably easy to maintain because of its low absorbance rate giving it higher resistance to staining. It’s a great choice for high footfall city centre applications.”

The redevelopment of Ashton Market will see the introduction of new stalls and kiosks, high quality landscaping and trees, a performance area, seating areas as well as new street furniture and lighting. The project will not only provide a brand new modern market for traders and shoppers but will also complement the multi-million pound “Vision Tameside” masterplan. www.charcon.com

Impact at Stone Show

Natural stone continues to be the material of choice for many hard landscaping projects and the amount of stone being used in both commercial and domestic projects saw double digit growth again in 2015, with every indication that the growth continued in 2016.

With the growth have come moves by some of the major suppliers of stone for hard landscaping to strengthen their position in the market and increase their share of it. The latest development has come from London Stone, which has three showrooms servicing all areas of London, a depot in Langley and a stone centre in Colnbrook (Langley and Colnbrook are in Berkshire). Its new move is the launch of

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hardscaper a commercial range of natural stone hard landscaping, complemented by some concrete products to provide the complete solution for a project from one source.

London Stone is not alone in courting the architectural commercial side of the sector. Hardscape, the provider of natural stone (and other) hard landscaping materials has opened a ‘Materials Lab’ at its headquarters in Eggerton, Lancashire, dedicated to providing inspiration, advice and product information to designers and clients. When it opened in October more than 30 guests came along to see what was on offer. The Materials Lab showcases the range of natural and man-made, ethically sourced materials from Hardscape –materials suited to all hard landscaping projects, from modest domestic projects to the largest urban regeneration schemes.

Another company actively seeking to expand in hard landscaping is Natural Paving Products, with headquarters near Doncaster, North Lincolnshire. It has opened a new, joint venture stone processing plant in India with a local

company and intends to continue its exceptional growth by expanding into other overseas markets. Employing more than 50 people in the UK Natural Paving Products focuses on the import, sales and marketing of its stones (and, lately, also porcelain paving called Vitripiazza) with distribution through a well-established network of merchants. At any one time it carries 45,000 one-tonne crates of finished product plus a further 20,000 crates in its manufacturing pipeline.

Respected for its high quality finished stone, many developers continue to turn to Italy to source large quantities of natural materials for top-of-the-market projects. Adding value to its stone with elaborate cutting and finishing, the average price of stone imported from Italy in 2015 was estimated at £952 a tonne in the UK, compared with £148 a tonne from the Far East. This proves that there are still those who want Italian style and quality of production and are prepared to pay for it.

Visit the Natural Stone Show at ExCeL, London from 25-27 April to see premium Italian suppliers first hand.

Solar street furniture set to boom in 2017 Leading UK street furniture manufacturer Townscape Products is predicting a boom in demand for solar street furniture in 2017 as authorities seek sturdy, safe and sustainable products that boast zero running costs.

The firm which manufactures a broad range of solar products including shelters, noticeboards and solar bollards is currently developing an extended range of products for release in 2017 that are being designed to meet customer requirements.

According to Townscape and sister company Bollards HQ which is pioneering advances in solar bollards – the present rise in sales and enquiries for solar street furniture coincides with the technology commercially coming of age.

Jonathan Goss, managing director at Townscape Products, said: “While councils across the UK struggle to implement severe spending cuts, advances in street furniture technology are creating a fantastic opportunity to generate longterm financial savings.

“The biggest no brainer of all is that by banking these savings, authorities can also dramatically improve inner city and suburban safety.”

Solar street furniture with motion sensor technology turns on when pedestrians

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approach brightening their path forward making them less likely to bump into obstacles.

Further, in stark contrast to traditional street lighting that is a constant drain on the public purse, intelligent solar items only use “free” energy generated by natural daylight.

“Now that solar technology is becoming ever more viable, authorities the length and breadth of the country have the opportunity to slash costs and reduce public bills while powering towards sustainability goals and improving safety.”

Jonathan concludes: “To this end, we are excited to announce that we will unveil a raft of state-of-the-art products early in 2017. This will mean those charged with sourcing solar street furniture will have more choice than ever before.

“Here at Townscape, we are keen to assist authorities and town planners make transition to solar products smoothly, so we’re happy to chat on a free and friendly basis about the numerous benefits including quick, cheap installation.î To find out more about solar street furniture, call 01623 513355 or visit www.townscapeproducts.co.uk. To find out more about solar bollards, visit www.buybollards.co.uk.

hardscaper

Next Generation The new collection sees Bradstone quadruple its porcelain range. Having entered the porcelain market back in 2015 with the launch of Mode, the range was extended last year to include new sizes and a wood-effect porcelain paver, Madera.

Now the range includes a total of eight new paving products – plus Bradstone’s first porcelain walling product

Garden landscaping manufacturer, Bradstone, has unveiled its new garden landscaping and driveway collection for 2017, which includes a vast array of innovative new product lines and range extensions.

– which offer greater design possibilities and cutting-edge style.

Advancements in manufacturing techniques have also enabled Bradstone to launch Next Generation Concrete. This range offers beautiful, unique designs, such as a stunning metallic effect, which are extremely resistant to stains, fading and algae. Moreover, a pre-applied coating removes the need for sealing and renders it effortless to keep clean.

Simon Marriott, concrete products director for Bradstone, said: “Our new garden landscaping collection for 2017 is testament to our ongoing commitment to stay at the forefront of the market with cutting edge design trends, premium products and exceptional quality so we can meet consumer demand and add value to our installer partners.

“Whether a homeowner is looking to give their garden a complete makeover, simply refresh their patio or improve their property’s kerb appeal by updating their driveway, our range of over 140 products is sure to satisfy all tastes, budgets and lifestyles.” www.bradstone.com Full details of Bradstone’s new collection - next issue of The Landscaper.

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hardscaper The Treasury has announced that Buckingham Palace, The Queen’s Portland limestone administrative centre and home in London, is to be renovated and upgraded at a cost of £369million. The work is due to begin in April 2017 and is expected to take 10 years.

Jeep’s continued and growing popularity in the UK is illustrated in yesterday’s new car registrations figures, which show the best year in the UK for the legendary 4x4 manufacturer since it started trading here.

Jeep capped a hugely successful 2016, with strong December sales taking the total number for the year to a record-breaking 14,090 – up 30.5 per cent on last year’s 10,794.

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lighting

Bringing colour to gardens In winter, gardens can look very bare and drab during the day but can be enlivened with some colour lighting after dark. Martin Bennett explains.

The ever popular Spike lights can easily be converted to give some dramatic colour effects simply by clipping a coloured dichroic filter between the bulb and the glass lens in the end cap. A variety of colours are available from a dramatic red to a subtle moonlight blue.

A dichroic filter, is a very accurate colour filter used to selectively pass light of a small range of colours while reflecting other colours . Dichroic lenses are not expensive and can be bought on line for less than £6.00 each. To maximise the colour effect the use of a 6500k daylight white LED bulb is recommended.

Traditional style floodlights are also available with dichroic colour lenses. Also not expensive at around £30.

To convert from wall mounted to ground location simple screw the mounting bracket to a piece of decking and place anywhere on the ground and project the light to a wall or tree to give a dramatic effect.

Another option is to use a PAR38 floodlight with a colour LED bulb. A range of colour PAR38 bulbs are made

by Bell lighting.

To add a touch of magic use a floodlight to backlight a feature and a spotlight in front with contrasting colours.

Martin Bennett is the founder of Lumena Lights. www.lumenalights.com

TOP LED LIGHTING TIPS: 1. Built in LED lighting fixtures usually quote a life of 30,000 hours or more which is equivalent to around 10 years life at normal usage. However many warrantees are only for 2 years Look for warrantees of 5 years or more where the makers have confidence in their products.

2. LED’s themselves rarely fail but the “drivers” that power them often do. Some LED lights have accessible replaceable drivers; try and buy these for peace of mind. remember warrantee will not pay for the electrician’s cost of replacing the faulty light.

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Tree planting - UK in the shade Ambitious new tree planting targets in Scotland are leaving the rest of the UK in the shade – and other governments must now act to deliver jobs and reduce the impacts of climate change.

Confor, the leading UK trade body for forestry and timber, has praised the Scottish Government’s announcement, that it would raise its annual tree planting target from around 22 million trees to 33 million trees by 2024-25.

Scotland’s current target is 10,000 hectares per year (about 22 million trees) - double the 11 million trees the UK Government says it will plant in England in FIVE YEARS. 2016 was the worst year on record for tree planting in England and ministers have taken to using the claim that forest cover in England is at its highest since the 14th century to defend its record.

Confor calculated that even the modest ambition to plant 11 million trees during the lifetime of the 2015-2020 UK parliament will not be met. At current rates, the target will not be met until summer 2027.

In Wales, wood processing businesses recently highlighted concerns that jobs will be lost because of a lack of timber – fears shared by businesses across England.

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Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive of Confor, which has 1600 members across the UK, told The Landscaper, “The announcement by the Scottish Government means other administrations in the rest of the UK have to raise their game and make increased tree planting a priority in the same way Scotland’s devolved government has done.

“The Scottish Government has made it very clear that it is determined to meet its targets – to deliver jobs and investment to rural communities and to help meet its climate change mitigation targets. The cross-party commitment to Scotland’s £1 billion forestry sector was very clear in the excellent Scottish Parliament debate last week on delivering planting ambitions.”

Mr Goodall said the inquiry into forestry by the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs committee offered an opportunity to reboot forestry in England.

“In Scotland, we see enormous ambition for forestry to deliver on the three pillars of environmental, economic and social benefit,” Mr Goodall said. “In England, we have seen a dismal lack of ambition and planting described as pitiful by our members. The recent £19.2m Woodland Carbon Fund offers hope that planting will start pushing up, but we need large modern schemes to really make an impact and

arborist

that requires a fit-for-purpose grant scheme to be in place something we haven’t seen so far.

Mr Goodall highlighted the proposal to plant 650,000 trees at Doddington North Moor in Northumberland – a plan described by its local MP, Anne Marie Trevelyan, as one which ticks all the boxes.

“It is a scheme which has been designed sympathetically to fit into the local landscape and will have a positive impact in reducing downstream flood risks,” she said. “It will help reinforce the red squirrel buffer zone, protect jobs at the local sawmill and develop new employment by creating new supply chains.”

Mrs Trevelyan has criticised the UK Government for its lack of tree planting ambition and said it should be looking at a figure more like 200 million rather than 11 million trees In Wales, just 100 hectares (only 220,000 trees) were planted last year – just 1/50 of the annual target of 5,000 hectares. Critics blame a lack of forestry focus in ‘superagency’ Natural Resources Wales, with Penny Lloyd of North Wales timber merchant Clifford Jones saying tree planting is “vital for the survival of our industry”.

Chris Davies, Conservative MP for Brecon & Radnorshire and Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Forestry at Westminster, said: “There is a clear timber gap emerging in the 2030s due to the planting drop-off in the last 20 years. This is having a dreadful effect on the confidence and the investment plans of companies like Clifford Jones, sawmills in my own constituency and many other businesses across the UK. We have to plant now or a proportion of the 80,000 jobs sustained by the forestry and timber sector will be lost.

“If we plant now, our economy, environment and communities benefit in the short, medium and long term. If we do nothing, our economy, environment and communities will suffer. It’s a simple choice for me - more planting now.”

Teaching Trees The Royal Forestry Society (RFS) successful Teaching Trees project for primary schools has added Gloucestershire to the list of counties it now operates in.

Teaching Trees offers schools two- hour sessions in local woods with a range of creative and fun seasonal activities which closely link the care and management of woods to the national curriculum.

In Gloucestershire, Georgia Spooner, an experienced environmental education officer, primary school teacher

and forest school leader, will be leading sessions in local woodlands around Stroud.

She says: “There is something very special about woodlands: the never ending cycle of seasons and the nooks and crannies ready to find. I love seeing woodlands through the eyes of children and helping them to explore and understand their own passion for the outdoors. These places are so important for future generations and the more we learn about them, the more we can all help to sustain and care for them.”

Another new appointee is Tim Kaye, who takes over from Faye Esrich in Herefordshire. He has worked in outdoor education for over 20 years and will be basing Teaching Trees sessions at Aconbury, part of the Duchy of Cornwall’s Herefordshire Estate. www.rfs.org.uk/learning

Tough radio The latest version of Makita’s very popular jobsite radio features the DAB digital broadcast system and with twin large 76mm diameter speakers will generates a massive 3.5watts from each speaker when powered by a Makita 18v Lithium-Ion battery. This radio can be mains powered with the AC adaptor jack built in, but most practically for site use, will happily operate on most of the Makita batteries from the 7.2v and 10.8v Liion stick batteries to the 10.8v, 14.4v and popular 18v slide type batteries. It is not compatible with the older Ni-Cad, Ni-MH or G-series batteries.

The new Makita DMR109 DAB radio with digital tuning has an FM frequency range of 87.5 - 108Mhz and uses the Band 111 5A - 13F frequency band. The tuner has a bright, clear and easy-to-read LED display and the flexible antenna can be removed for storage in the battery cover.

The proven, robust housing has strong elastomer bumpers on front and back for protection against rough handling. The soft grip handle folds flat down against the

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body in use. A micro USB port is provided for software upgrades and an AUX-IN jack enables external audio source to be played through this radio.

Weighing just 4.6kg this rugged and powerful DAB radio is weather proofed to IP64 standards and available in either white or blue body colours. www.makitauk.com

A Star Wars story Darth Vader is a core character in George Lucas’ Star Wars films franchise appearing in all the key films in recent years and has been portrayed by numerous actors. In the most recent Rogue One film this villainous part starred Welsh sporting hero, turned-actor, Spencer Wilding. In taking this role Spencer had to maintain a contractual silence, even being unable to confirm to his own family that he was acting the part until the film was finally released.

Ian Murray is a chainsaw sculptor, carving many varied subjects from timber as commissioned works from individuals and organisations keen to have his works of art. Both Ian and Spencer live in North Wales and are active communicators through social media. When Ian showcased a recent sculpture via Twitter he got an immediate tweet from Spencer commissioning a life size interpretation of the character in which he had just been recognised with the launch of Rogue One.

The challenge for Ian Murray was that the sculpture was required for Christmas 2016 and the commission was confirmed just five days before the holiday! But Ian revved up his Makita chainsaws and worked non-stop for three days to complete the challenge on time. “Carving Darth Vader for the star himself was a bit

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New High Torque Forestry Cutter Bobcat has launched the new FRC150HT and FRC200HT high torque forestry cutter attachments for use with the company’s market-leading compact tracked, skid-steer and all-wheel steer loaders. The new forestry cutters are compatible with the Bobcat T770H and T870H compact tracked loaders, S770H and S850H skid-steer loaders and the A770H all-wheel steer loader.

Designed for continuous use in shredding and mulching bushes, shrubs and small trees, the forestry cutters are ideal for fast removal of thick undergrowth.

Providing cutting widths of 1.5 and 2.0 m, respectively, the FRC150HT and FRC200HT forestry cutters are designed for continuous work on bushes and trees 100 to 120 mm in diameter, intermittent use for trees with a diameter from 180 to 220 mm and occasional use on trees 250 to 300 mm in diameter.

Applications are very varied and range from those in agriculture including vineyards, orchards, nurseries and tree care; forestry including cutting fire breaks in woods and forests, clearing work and removing unwanted undergrowth trees; wildlife, national park and country estate management; perimeter maintenance of facilities such as schools and military bases; to site development in construction; land clearing for landscaping and recreation projects; maintenance work on vegetation next to pathways and other right-of-ways, utilities, railway lines and roads as well as clean-up work after storms and floods.

The FRC150HT and FRC200HT replace the previous models in the range and, based on customer feedback, they have been enhanced with a new variable torque motor providing 40% more power and several other

updates to improve performance. The latter include a new drum design, new routing for the hoses, a reduction in weight, improved visibility and much more, increasing efficiency and improving manoeuvrability.

The forestry cutters are part of the comprehensive Bobcat range of attachments for forestry, estate management, amenity and landscaping work, which includes stump grinders, wood chippers, brushcutters, flail cutters, augers and tree transplanters.

Powered by the new M-BOOST high performance motor with variable torque, the 1.5 m drum on the FRC150HT forestry cutter is equipped with 30 fixed carbide teeth, whilst the drum on the FRC200HT has 36 cutting teeth. Other new features include five rows of counter cutters; a new adjustable push bar configuration; a new reinforced chain protection system at the back; a new HD belt cover; a new Forestry Applications Kit rear window; new adjustable skid shoes; an automatic drum brake system; an ACD Control system and a patented fixed knife rotor with tungsten carbide tips. www.bobcat.com

- Treat Your Turf • 25L capacity covers 625m2 • 1 meter spray width • Suitable for most chemicals • Non drip nozzle valves • Optional boom cover

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Brexit team discussions A senior minister in the UK’s Government’s Brexit team has had discussions with Confor on the major issues affecting the forestry and timber sector during a visit to a sawmill.

Robin Walker, Minister in the Department for Exiting the European Union, was given a tour of the BSW mill at Fort William.

Stuart Goodall, Confor’s Chief Executive, welcomed the opportunity to discuss the UK’s EU exit with the minister face-to-face at such a crucial time - and to stress the importance of the forestry and wood processing sector, which employs almost 80,000 people across the UK and delivers £2 billion in economic value every year.

Mr Goodall presented Mr Walker with copies of Confor’s report, A Thriving Forestry and Timber Sector in a Post-Brexit World.

Minister for Exiting the European Union, Robin

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Walker, said: “The UK Government is absolutely committed to ensuring that we have the strongest possible rural economy after Brexit and forestry will be a key part of the discussions as to how we achieve that”.

Mr Walker right, with (from left): Hamish Macleod, Head of Public Affairs at BSW Timber; Stuart Goodall, Chief Executive of Confor: promoting forestry and wood; and Andy Rogers, Mill at BSW Fort William.

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Distributed in the UK exclusively by STM For more information or to arrange a demonstration: Call 01789 488450 or e-mail info@st-mach.com The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

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Catalogue on request & on-line Retail centre also on site Lower Withington, Cheshire SK11 9DX

Tel 01707 261 370 Fax 01707 262 847 sales@rochfords.net www.rochfords.net

Crown Lane, Farnham Royal, Nr Slough, Bucks SL2 3SF Tel 01753 643108 Fax 01753 646818 sales@fcn.co.uk www.fcn.co.uk

Nationwide

Court Gate Nursery, Eckington, Pershore, Worcestershire

Tel: 01386 750585 - Fax: 01386 750197 www.readyhegdeltd.com or www.boxknot.com Email: simon@readyhedgeltd.com

Plants, turf, topsoil, mulch and mushroom compost Te l e p h o n e : 0 2 0 8 8 9 8 7 1 31 Fa x : 0 2 0 8 7 5 5 1 9 0 8

Email: office@sempervirens.co.uk

B r i d g e Fa r m N u r s e r y, H o s p i t a l B r i d g e Rd , ABCDEFGJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ W h i t t o n , T WWorcestershire 2 6LH Cheshire Sussex J PARKER W.Godfrey DUTCH BULBS& Sons Ltd ABCEFGJLOPQRSWY 14/16 Hadfield Street, Old Trafford Supplied nationally – lawn edging, Wholesale Manchester M16 9FG Herbaceous Growers Established over 25 years KentOAKS FOUR Saxon Plantsrailing planters and more.

Tel: 0161 848 1124 Suppliers of: We grow and supply herbaceous Surrey Specialist growers of high quality Fax: 0161 877 0602 info@enviro-gardening.co.uk Cash & Carry

plants and related groups to the Email: wholesale@jparkers.co.uk A B C D E G landscape J M O Q R S and T UW plant centre trade

London

Young Plants of Bedding & Basket Plants Alpines & Perennials - Trees & Shrubs Mediterranean Plants - Specimens Range of Sundries

Nationwide to local 01630 673860 HEDGING Saxon Nursery, Hankham, PLANTS, Pevensey, East Sussex BN24 5AP ORNAMENTAL WHOLESALE PLANTS 01323 763355 CONIFERS &ATel: TREES, B C D E F G J K LO P Q R S TFOR V W X Y ZUK DISTRIBUTION SHRUBS & HEATHERS We grow and supply herbaceous CALL (01276) 471757 plants and related groups to the TEL. 0845 6522789

Wholesale Herbaceous Growers

FARLOW FARM NURSERY sales@wgodfrey.co.uk landscape and plant centre trade ORETON, CLEOBURY MORTIMER, www.wgodfrey.co.uk

Catalogue on request & on-line Lower Withington, Cheshire SK11 9DX

Tel: 01477 571797 Fax: 01477 571314 Email: simong@fouroaks-nurseries.co.uk www.fouroaks-nurseries.co.uk ABCDEFGJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ For all your plants

Kent

EVERGREEN hardy / plants with service to match

W.Godfrey & TRADITIONAL Sons Ltd From online ordering to cashwww.enviro-gardening.co.uk and carry

‘One Stop Shop’ for Plants & Sundries

Fax: 01276 855055

Chobham, Woking, Surrey GU24 8TS

Tel 01707 261 370 Fax 01707 262 847

Live availability & discounted sales@rochfords.net Woodcock Lane, www.rochfords.net on-line orders Chobham, Woking, ABCDEGJLMNOPQRSTWXY phone: 01233 813340 Surrey GU24 8TS e: sales@palmstead.co.uk

web: www.plants.co.uk

Nationwide Tel: 01276 855855 Fax: 01276 855055

web: www.plants.co.uk email: rachel@plants.co.uk

   

SEASONAL TRADERS ENQUIRIES BY FAX: 05601 275088 OR THRU. WEBSITE

HEDGEHOGS

nurSErY You need it? We’ve got it...

Instant Screening Solutions • Weed control fabrics Rootballed Hedging & Trees • Windbreak netting • Bamboo canes • Ornamental barkTree & Shrub SpecialiSTS

READY WHEN YOU ARE. Nationwide

email: rachel@plants.co.uk Do you supply A B C D with E G J L M O S T W X Y landscapers AABCDEGJLMOSTWXY BCDEGJLMOSTWX Y nursery stock?

If so, call this number: 020 82538377

Lancashire

(Agents for Growers Internationally)

ALL PLANTS SUPPLIED FOR: Nursery Stock KIDDERMINSTER, WORCS, DY14 0TZ 01276 471757 www.saxonplants.co.uk WHOLESALE/RETAIL OUTLETS E-mail: sales@wgodfrey.co.uk www.farlowfarmnursery.co.uk The award-winning nursery LANDSCAPERS, DESIGNERS to the landscape Website: www.wgodfrey.co.uk PLANTS LIMITED Email: sales@farlowfarmnursery.co.uk DEVELOPERS/BUILDERS industry LOCAL AUTHORITIES TEL/FAX: (01746) 718688 Tel: 01276 855855 Woodcock Lane, Scotland

nATIOnWIDE DELIVErY Tel: 01592 772274

info@hedehogs-nursery.co.uk www.hedgehogs-nursery.co.uk

Tel: 01949 20445 Fax: 01949 21154

www.dingleydell.tel

e-mail: SaleS@dwfroST.com CGJ Mathias & Son web: www.dwfroST.com 01386 750585 (Nurseries) AMENITY SALES

Hedging Conifers and Laurels Farnham, Surrey

Lincolnshire

All your plants...

All from one place...

All from Coblands Email: plants@best4plants.co.uk

D&R Simmons Ltd

Tel

Amenity Sales: 01732 770999 01252 714552English Hedging is a family run company

www.hedgesonline.com

www.best4plants.co.uk/trade

specialising in production, sales, delivery and installation of instant evergreen hedging at competitive pricing.

Otterhill Farm, Rowtown, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 1HD

Suppliers of all types of flower bulbs, nursery stock & Christmas trees

Tel: 01775 723320 Fax: 01775 760451 www.drsimmons.co.uk SPRING FLOWERING BULBS sales@drsimmons.co.uk

To advertise call Matthew on (020) 8891 4850

Mobile: 07552 392 339|Office: 01932 854 135 www.englishhedging.com

45 Market Way, Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincs, PE11 3PE.

D&R SIMMONS LTD

(Established 1951)

45 Market Way, Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 3PE Tel: 01775 723320 / 766028 Fax: 01775 760451 / 714970 www.drsimmons.co.uk e-mail: sales@drsimmons.co.uk

Autumn 2013 Price List

Suppliers of Bulbs Nursery Stock and Christmas Trees

The Landscaper | Issue 214 | February 2017

87

plant seeker Artificial Grass

Landscape Supplies

Farm Forestry Co All Landscape & Forestry Supplies

01244 289 182 www.hitechturf.co.uk info@hitechturf.co.uk

Aeration

Spirals / Canes Shelters / Stakes Quality Trees & Shrubs Grass Reinforcement & Protection Mesh Plastic Pavers Plastic Deer Fencing New Oak Sleepers

Machinery Sprayers, Trailers, Water Units, Lawn Care, Leaf Sweepers & Suckers... & Much More!

01473 328272 or visit www.schsupplies.co.uk

KING FEEDERS UK

SPECIALIST SHREDDING & COMPOSTING EQUIPMENT

Tel: 01588 650496 Fax: 01588 650631

www.farmforestry.co.uk

Lawn Edging www.ecogreencomposting.co.uk Tel: 01260 223273 R Bethell (Plant Hire Services For Landscape Clearance)

Erosion Control Seeding

The UK’s leading specialist seeding contractor

NATIONWIDE SERVICE

Sprayers

(01954) 232350 info@cdts.info www.cdts-ltd.co.uk

Swimming Ponds

THE

best THINGS

come

IN

E: bethellconstruct@aol.com T: 07792705832 Office: 01952 590604

ToSMALL advertise packages call Matthew on (020) 8891 4850 07940 155 157

35mm x 50mm height 88 width www.landscapermagazine.com

Sportsturf Machinery

Pedestrian stump grinders Tunnissen products Blue Chip Chippas Beau products Full technical support & after sales service

Specialised Landscaping and Turfcare Equipment

Visit www.blec.co.uk Heftee ad 50x35 01.qxd:Layout 1 or call 01778 346222

ServiceDANequip’s Lifts

stump grinders have the advantage of narrow SERVICE LIFTS access down to 28”

COSTS LOST TIME INJURIES

Swimming pond design and / or Construction 020 7183 3333 www.gartenart.co.uk

We provide land clearance service R Bethell (Plant Hire Services Landscape Clearance) using excavators with For attachments of land rakes: forClearance removalService of hedges, shrubs, We provide Land with Excavators bush, scrub, weeds, grass removal, topsoil with attachments of Land Rakes for removal of Hedges, works, soil scrub, preparation for removal, seeding plant shrubs, bush, weeds, grass toporsoil works, beds, clean out water ditches. We remove soil preparation for seeding or plant beds, clean out scrub and bush around lakes, pools, water ditches.

Remove bush around lakes, ditches, farm land, scrub openand ground.

We also pools,flower ditches, beds farm land, open ground, rake excavate flower Beds rake & planting areas, & planting areasditches, and excavate Pools, lakes, pools, lakes, drainage andditch new water pipedrainage, feeds. new water pipe feeds. excavation, And also for Hire with operator Forestry 07792 705832 www.rbethell.co.uk Mulcher fitted to a Bobcat for site clearance Bethellconstruct@yahoo.co.uk works on all types New sites, golf courses, open fields, forestry, landscape gardeners, major landscape companies. We undertake all sizes of commercial and domestic jobs throughout UK.

SAFETY PRODUCTIVITY PROFIT

08450 773 773 www.psdgroundscare.com

Stump Grinders UKLTD

www.danequip.co.uk T: 01420 476248

Narrow Access Stump Grinders 0% Finance Available

Tel: 01420 474600

THE

LANDSCAPER

By Tabitha Grammaticus-Smythe

Despite my bitter disappointment at not being appointed as Grumpy Trumpy’s Green Wall Executive I have to confirm that the large alligator lurking around the 18th hole is definitely not an employee of Trumps Scottish golf course charged with keeping out any dodgy foreigners/very bad dudes/ journalists and Mexicans.

Oh no, it’s the work of The UK and Latviabased company Harris Kalinka which was showcasing its outstanding work with golf course architects in the world of virtual reality. As some folk over the pond have trouble knowing what is fake nowadays it’s not suprising that hundreds of terrified punters were seen fleeing the firms booth at the Golf Industry Show in Orlando.

Would not frighten me – I look at the creature and I think handbag, shoes, gloves, belt, a fine set of bespoke suitcases and a first class juicy steak.

Things are looking up here at Faulty Towers. Liam Campbell has arrived as Automotive Editor. Liam is handsome young and innocent. It won’t take long before we

Snappy shot

90

www.landscapermagazine.com

Liam paddling break him in. I wanted that job, but as I was told that I could only review 4x4’s or trucks - my dreams of swanning around in snazzy sports cars or up-market Mercs were cruelly dashed.

Il Duce has been signing his own Executive Orders. We all have to get into the office by 9 30. That will be fun - especially as Duce the younger never appears much before lunch claiming he has to stay at home to nurse his cat that is apparently suffering from migraine. I really don’t know how he gets away with it.

Landscaping is the first UK trade to see a significant number of women joining up according to a recent survey.

This is of course is the result of the efforts of the British Association of Lady Landscapers (BALL) that was founded by little old me and the millions that follow my column every month.

Drop me a line! tabitha@landscapermagazine.com

Readyhedge.

The home of variety.

The Readyhedge range of instant hedging is unrivalled in the UK, giving designers and landscapers all the choice they need from over 25 varieties, available at varying heights in one-metre troughs or in our unique Readybags, ready-spaced and ready to plant.

01386 750585 lindsay@rea dyhedge.com www.readyhedge.com

READYHEDGE

READY-SPACED, READY TO PLANT, READY WHEN YOU ARE.