The Landscaper November/December 2018 by The Landscaper

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LANDSCAPER

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2018 | ISSUE 232

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Editor’s letter

Front cover image supplied by Quartix: Real Time Vehicle Tracking

“Trailblazer” groups of employers and the perceived value placed on apprenticeships is changing. On page 14 Robin Jackson, from City & Guilds, explains how these reforms are helping to create better opportunities for people to enter the landscape profession, and importantly for the employers how the changes in apprenticeship schemes will bring work ready employees into the workforce. And finally as we approach the festive period, please take a moment, if you can, to support Perennial, the charity set up 180 years ago to support fellow horticulturists and others in the industry who may be battling illness, financial hardship or just bad luck. To celebrate its 180th year the charity is holding a party at the Petersham Nurseries in Covent Garden, London on 29 January. For more details on getting tickets for this event see page 19. So, that’s all for now except to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We look forward to working with you in 2019!

LANDSCAPER

TH E

Welcome to your winter issue of The Landscaper Magazine. This issue we feature a comprehensive report from this year’s successful SALTEX exhibition. With over 300 exhibitors attending, the show provided plenty of opportunity for exhibitors and visitors alike. A new feature this year was the Innovation Hub, where visitors were free to attend live interviews with industry experts. It was also the platform from which to celebrate the winner of this year’s SALTEX Innovation Award, which went to Sherriff Amenity for their Precision Pro App. Read more about Sherriff Amenity’s App on page 42. Also a special mention to Andrew Forster of the Really Green Smart Garden Company, a visitor to our stand at SALTEX this year and who was the lucky winner of The Landscaper Magazine competition. As the first business card to be picked out of the hat, Andrew wins an advertising contract with The Landscaper in 2019. Looking forward we also prepare for the BTME show, which returns to Harrogate in January, and promises great visitor experiences with new features such at the Golf Construction Live Area and a Member Wellness Area. Also, Continue to Learn will kick-off the week, beginning on Sunday 20 January, with an extensive programme across more than 250 hours of education. Read more on page 20. On the subject of education, a main focus this issue is on apprenticeships. The apprenticeship landscape is shifting. The Government has ambitious plans to train three million new apprentices in England by 2020. Consequently the entire funding system is being redesigned, training standards are being rewritten by

NOVEMBER/DECEMB

ER 2018 | ISSUE 232

AVAILABLE ON SUBSCR

IPTION

’S THE UK 1 NUMBER ING AP LANDSC TRY INDUS E MAGAZIN

SALTEX REPORT BTME PREVIEW APPRENTICESHIP STANDARDS

TRACK YOUR WORK FO WITH QUARTIX RCE www.quartix.net

We welcome any news, points of view or feature ideas. Please email maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Supporting your business and your drivers: vehicle tracking “Quartix vehicle tracking actually works in our drivers’ defence, it’s their personal protection in case of unfair claims” says Matt O’Conner, Managing Director of John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance. When describing his staffs’ reaction to the tracking system, Matt comments: “Drivers expect vehicle tracking nowadays. It shows that a company is fully invested in its operations and in the safety of its employees.” GPS tracking gives landscaping businesses actionable insight to start making efficiencies, improving productivity and saving money. It also protects employees, improves road safety and encourages more economical driving styles. The team at John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance use vehicle tracking to improve driving styles and subsequently drive down fuel consumption and vehicle repair costs. A good vs bad driving style can save £2000 in repairs costs per vehicle John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance uses the Quartix driving style data to investigate whether poor driving scores correspond with higher fuel costs and higher repair costs. The answer is a resounding yes: a driver with above average speed scores (green) totalled £1,200 in fuel consumption, £96 in workshop repairs and just one and a half hours of workshop labour time over a three month period. Over 3 months

Good Driving Score

Bad Driving Score

Fuel costs Workshop repair costs Workshop labour

£1200 £96 1.5 hours

£1350 £2216 29.5 hours

In the same three months, a driver with a poor speed score (red), covering similar mileage, used £150 extra fuel, cost the company an extra £2,120 in repairs and incurred an astonishing 29.5 hours of workshop labour. The full case study can be viewed at Quartix.net, and by clicking the case studies tab.

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Matt O’Conner, Managing Director of John O’Conner Grounds Maintenance.

About Quartix The Quartix vehicle tracking system has been installed in more than 350,000 vehicles and helps a wide range of businesses improve productivity, cut costs and save on fuel every day. Providing commercial fleet tracking for cars, trucks, coaches and vans throughout the UK, US and France, the system offers a host of valuable features for fleet managers. Quartix does the hard work of analysing your data, generating simple to use reports that can be accessed online. Live tracking, driver timesheets, geofencing and management dashboards allow managers to easily see where efficiencies can be made. In-depth driving style reports help to assess driving style, which if improved can save businesses up to 25% in fuel consumption as well as positively impact the safety of other road users. Quartix offers tiered packages to help businesses identify their safest drivers, make sense of mileage and fuel costs and reduce admin. •G et in touch to discuss the best option for your business on 01686 806 663 or email enquiries@quartix.net or visit Quartix.net

xx CONTENTS editor Maggie Walsh 07787 555 798 maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk features Ffion Llwyd-Jones sales manager Lauren Gwynn landscaper@sheengate.co.uk group sales manager Stewart Turner 0208 939 5600 stewart@sheengate.co.uk design and production Lucas-studio.co.uk circulation and subscriptions Maggie Walsh maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk

The Landscaper is owned and published by Sheengate Publishing Ltd.

November/December 2018

The Landscaper is an entirely independent magazine. It is not a member of any trade association or society. Sheengate Publishing Ltd Unit A4 Kingsway Business Park Oldfield Road, Hampton TW12 2HD 0208 939 5600 www.sheengate.co.uk www.landscapermagazine.com

Latest News ............................................. 06 Apprenticeships...................................... 14 Events......................................................... 18

Lighting ..................................................... 27 Arborist ..................................................... 28

managing director Alex Whitney

Horticulture ............................................. 31

publisher Con Crowley Nothing in this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. Readers intending to purchase goods or services from advertisers should make their own enquiries if in any doubt. Every endeavour has been made to ensure that all the information published in this magazine is as accurate as possible. Neither the publishers nor their agents can be held responsible for any errors or omissions; nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to any person acting on the information contained in the magazine.

BTME........................................................... 20

Hardscaper ............................................... 36 Mowers....................................................... 37 SALTEX........................................................ 40 Classifieds ................................................. 48 Stop Press! ................................................ 50

Next Month in The Landscaper The Year Ahead Turf Wars Inside the RHS Power Tools plus regular features: Arborist, Horticulture, Hardscaper and Mowers

Advert and Editorial copy deadlines: Thursday 20 December

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

NEWS

Next-generation turf managers

Each year Jacobsen, a Textron Golf brand, invites 20 greenkeepers to its headquarters in Ipswich to undertake education designed to help them take the next step in golf course management. Each of the greenkeepers is a member of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA), which has worked alongside Jacobsen to provide the education programme for 20 members every year since 2013. FTMI was born in the UK, and has been introduced in Spain, Portugal, Australia and New Zealand. Across two days of intense education, speakers and experienced mentors will provide candidates with invaluable knowledge and skills. BIGGA is proud to reveal the members who have been selected to take part in the 2019 edition of FTMI, to take place from Tuesday 5 to Thursday 7 March 2019: Andrew Wilson, deputy course manager, Whitecraigs Golf Club; Ben Hunter, deputy course manager, The Richmond Golf Club; Ben Williams, first assistant greenkeeper, Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club; Christopher Jones, deputy course manager, St Anne’s Old Links; Craig Berry, course supervisor, St Andrews Links Trust; David Stewart, deputy head greenkeeper, Walmley Golf Club; Edward Campbell, deputy course manager, Sandford Springs Golf Club; Gareth Hunt, deputy head greenkeeper, Cricket St Thomas Golf Club; Graeme Davidson, assistant greenkeeper, Murrayfield Golf Club; James Bruder, deputy course manager, East Berkshire Golf Club; James Cleaver, senior greenkeeper, The Belfry; John Scurfield, first assistant, Morpeth Golf Club; Luke Hine, deputy head greenkeeper, Gaudet Luce Golf Club; Michael Hughes, deputy course manager, Scotscraig Golf Club; Phil Worth, first assistant greenkeeper, Prestbury Golf Club; Sam Sweetzer, assistant greenkeeper, Queenwood Golf Club; Scott Corrigan, assistant greenkeeper, Royal Troon Golf Club;

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Scott Logan, first assistant greenkeeper, Royal Bled Golf Club, Slovenia; Simon Pyett, greenkeeper, Halesworth Golf Club; and Tim Brewster, deputy head greenkeeper, Reigate Hill Golf Club. Jacobsen and BIGGA recognise the importance of preparing the next generation of greenkeepers to take on a management role at a golf club. FTMI has been designed to provide practical tools and guidance to help delegates pursue their career aspirations through this professional development course. Karen Proctor, Director Global Marketing at Textron Golf, said: “Congratulations to all 20 delegates chosen to take part in FTMI 2019. Each year the number of applicants increases, giving us a very tough job to choose just 20! We are looking forward to welcoming the class of 2019 to Ipswich in March and providing a unique experience that will help the delegates on their way to achieving their career goals.” Sami Strutt, Head of Member Development at BIGGA, said: “FTMI pushes our members out of their comfort zones. Each of the successful candidates will be at the point in their career where they are itching to take the next step in their career. But what does that mean in a practical sense and what skills do you need to learn that you may not gain in your day-to-day working life? FTMI provides 20 ambitious BIGGA members with the necessary skills to take that next step. Each year the education gets better and better as we find out more about what the delegates find most useful and relevant as they work towards their career goals. We’re delighted that so many FTMI graduates have built upon their experience and are now embarking upon careers in course management. I’m sure the same will soon be true of this year’s 20 delegates, who were all of an incredibly high standard.” https://youtu.be/xbl8mjt1dUY

NEWS

Milestones to prominence Sports contracting, groundsworks and landscaping group Cleveland Land Services dug into its past recently to unearth key milestones to celebrate 50 years serving the sector. Agricultural machinery salesman Frank Miller and engineer Mike Scaife formed CLS in 1968 after they spotted an opportunity to deliver a range of services to the North East that included earthmoving, site clearances, garden mowing, rotovating and general gardening. Today, CLS runs three divisions – CLS Sports, CLS Landscape & Earthworks and CLS Selfdrive – as its order book spreads throughout the UK. After a decade of steady growth, the company appointed Frank’s son John in 1978, taking over the reins as managing director in 1996 after his father died. Diversifying, John expanded CLS operations to embrace the burgeoning synthetic sports surfaces, play park and landscaping markets as it spread beyond its Teesside roots. Bringing sons Stephen, Andrew and Jack into the corporate fold as the third generation of the Miller family has further strengthened the expansion and ambitions of CLS, as did the appointment of long-serving Brian Dunn to director of operations in 2010. A corporate culture of “family friendliness in business” has earned CLS an enduring place in the hearts of staff, customers and suppliers – the unanimous verdict of more than 300 guests who gathered at its Guisborough, Cleveland headquarters to celebrate the latest milestone. “The last 22 years are a bit of a blur, they’ve passed so quickly,” said John Miller. Among his many high points along the way was “meeting Prince Charles, our first £1m contract and bringing my three sons into the business.” At 57, he had “no intention of retiring yet”, “although my sons might think the time has come”, he joked to a packed assembly of family, friends, customers and suppliers.

L-R Jack, Andrew, Stephen, Mike, John, Brian

1987 - Prince Charles meeting staff

Project work now takes CLS across the UK, operating from four regional depots and running a fleet of mammoth earthmoving plant, machinery and specialised pitch installation equipment. The customer base has diversified too, John said – from councils and leading independent schools to top football clubs, athletics stadia, national sporting hubs and `staycation` holiday lodge destinations. CLS is a major employer locally, committed to bringing on apprentices to become permanent placements among its workforce. “I’m so proud of the reputation we have earned locally, regionally and nationally for high-quality, reliable work,” John added. “That reputation we have earned thanks to wholehearted staff commitment and the family culture that runs throughout CLS. Here’s to the next 50 years.” www.cleveland-land-services.co.uk

John on old dozer 92

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

NEWS

DLF Seeds appointment To support continued investment, growth and increase in sales, DLF Seeds has appointed Alistair Eccles as Regional Technical Sales Manager for Scotland and the North. His new role will see him working closely with both customers and distributors, providing advice and support on the Masterline and Johnsons Sports Seed ranges. Alistair has industry experience in many areas of agronomy, grass seed and turf production. He is a BASIS and FACTS qualified advisor, and looking forward to putting his expertise to good use in his new role with DLF Seeds. “Over the years I have been fortunate enough to work alongside some fantastic turf managers and I look forward to furthering acquaintances old and new, delivering technical advice and support in my new role. DLF is continually researching and developing exciting new breeding innovations which I’m excited to be working with in the golf and sports turf sectors.”

Higher power, lower weight The new ECHO CS-4510ES rear-handle chainsaw has a 45cc two-stroke stratified scavenging engine, and a power-to-weight ratio that makes it more powerful yet lighter than previous models, with output of 2.3kW and a dry weight of just 5.0kg. The Stage II emission compliant engine is one of ECHO’s new engine platforms. The two-stroke has a piston-operated scavenging system in which a layer of fuel-free air is created between the burnt charge in the combustion chamber and the fresh charge in the crankcase. The buffer reduces the fuel laden losses during the cycle. This translates into a chainsaw that generates more torque to cut faster and more efficiently through harder wood. Other features include the new air filter design that shields the engine from dust intake, the drop-out prevention nuts, translucent fuel tank, and the ES Easy Start system.

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It has a two-year professional warranty or five-year domestic warranty. www.echo-tools.co.uk

Record-breaking sales Johnsons Lawn Seed has reported record breaking sales across its range, attributing the tripling in autumn demand to one of the hottest and driest summers on record, and consumers wanting to repair damaged and parched grass. Higher than average temperatures in September and early October meant Johnsons brought forward deliveries of lawn seed and packing for retailers. From mid-September, for a six-week period, packing deliveries took place seven days a week to meet demand. There has also been positive news for Johnsons’ latest lawn care innovation, Super Smart Lawn Feed, with strong pre-season orders following its launch at Glee in September. Super Smart contains Azospirillum bacteria, unique ingredient that cannot currently be found in any other feed and which fixes nitrogen from the atmosphere to grass roots. Combined with soluble mycorrhizal fungi to increase the root system, as well as seaweed extract to provide micronutrients to the lawn, the new formula has evoked a positive response amongst retailers who have been ordering their stock ready for Spring. Guy Jenkins, Consumer Manager at Johnsons Lawn Seed said: “After a long cold winter directly followed by a prolonged heatwave, lawns were put under a lot of strain this year, turning them into dry, arid tinderboxes. However, since the autumn bank holiday, we have seen ideal seed sowing weather and consumers have been taking advantage of the warmer soil conditions to recover their lawns. Garden centres have enjoyed a very good season for lawn seed, and for Johnsons its been our best autumn sales.” www.johnsonslawnseed.com

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NEWS

Power workshorses to any terrain Etesia UK has unveiled two new Attila pedestrian brushcutters ahead of the 2019 season. With built-in rugged reliability as standard, the new Etesia AK60 and AH75 pedestrian brushcutters have been designed to work in the toughest of conditions. These powerful workhorses effectively deal with clearing vegetation from a wide variety of sites, such as long grass, weeds, bracken and brambles on woodland paths, orchards, holiday parks and road verges. Ease of operation and manoeuvrability ensure total efficiency and high output. Efficiency • Heavy-duty brush cutting (up to Ø30 with AH75 and Ø20 with AK60). • Mowing on the most difficult slopes (up to 20°) thanks to the hydraulic transmission with a differential loc.k • Two idlers that can be locked without a tool for improved stability on slopes in the AH75. • Possibility to fit two wider rear wheels as an option. • Cutting height adjustment with three positions from the handle. • Handle offset control from the operating position with three working positions and one transport position.

Comfort • High manoeuvrability thanks to the hydraulic transmission and three forward speeds and one reverse speed. • Differential lock can be engaged without interrupting movement. • All operating controls are available from the operating position for convenience and safety. • Protection for controls and handswith the guards incorporated into the handle with a three-position adjustment facility. • Central handle that allows easier access to low controls (parking brake, forward transmission bypass, engine starter), with full protection for cables • Parking brake for safe immobilisation. • Anti-vibration rubber handles. Ruggedness • Machine can be moved into vertical position to gain access to the cutter blade for maintenance and cleaning. • Maintenance-free hydrostatic transmission with forced-air cooling, integrated expansion vessel. • Flail blades: reversible, protect the blade transmission system, low maintenance costs. • Rugged and reliable engines: Engine crank shaft mounted on bearings. • The AK60 model is fitted with a Kawasaki FJ180 OHV engine with a 60cm cutting width, while the AH75 is fitted with a Honda GXV 390 engine with a 75cm cutting width. • A full two-year commercial warranty comes as standard. www.etesia.co.uk

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NEWS

Half-cab promotion Purchase a new 2018 Polaris Ranger Diesel HD EPS EU or Ranger Diesel HD EPS Tractor from selected Polaris dealers between 1 October 2018 and 21 December 2018 and you can receive a free half cab promotional package. It includes 1x fixed glass windshield and a washer/wiper kit with battery connection kit. The Polaris 0% finance scheme is available over two years and can include up to ÂŁ1,000 excluding VAT on genuine Polaris ATV and UTV accessories. Terms and conditions apply to both the 0% finance offer and the half cab promotion. The Rangers feature Polaris Active Descent Control for smooth, controlled hill descents, and automatically braking on all four wheels (when switched to the appropriate setting) on steep inclines for greater safety. Handling and ease of driving is made lighter and smoother as well with Electronic Power Steering fitted as standard, making all-day riding a more comfortable experience. www.polarisbritain.com/promotions.html

Powerful, reliable and versatile. TYM compacts deliver more. The T353 compact is the ideal choice where day-in day-out multi-tasking is an absolute must. It makes easy work of a wide variety of landscaping and parks maintenance tasks and has a range of attachments, including backhoes, front loaders and an all-weather cab. The T353 gives you more versatility in the field.

reesinkturfcare.co.uk Get more from your turfcare partner this year: More products > More advice > More training > More finance Reesink Turfcare UK Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Images shown for illustration only.

TR322 The Landscaper Nov_Dec Parks_108x150_AW.indd 1

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The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

NEWS

Golf in Society Corporate partners of Golf Business International have rallied round to assist member Anthony Blackburn’s Golf in Society initiative, which works with people suffering from chronic illnesses. Golf in Society delivers person-centred golf sessions that “stimulate the mind, body and soul of older people looking to improve their health and wellbeing”. During each session participants receive three hours of moderate physical exercise, learn new skills and techniques, socialise with new friends, improve their self-esteem and are able to chat about their favourite topics. The sessions have proved particularly beneficial to those suffering with dementia or Parkinson’s disease, and Suffolkbased Textron Golf, which encompasses the Jacobsen, E-Z-GO, Cushman and TFM brands, and which has been manufacturing turf maintenance equipment for nearly 200 years, has agreed to allow the three-hole golf course at its Ipswich site to become a centre of excellence for local Golf in Society sessions. Andre Andrade, international sales director for Textron Golf, explained: “Few among us will not have experienced a family member or friend suffering with dementia or Parkinson’s and, when we learned of the success enjoyed by Anthony’s Golf in Society sessions, we were all keen to extend the use of our facility to help sufferers in East Anglia, andmaybe even beyond. “Many of these people will have previously played on golf courses maintained by our machinery and this allows us to give something back to both golf and society as a whole.” Blackburn, who joined Golf Business International earlier this year, created Golf in Society after researching the issues of mental health, obesity, loneliness and an ageing population. He realised new ways of improving public health were desperately needed – or the spiralling costs would threaten to bankrupt the public sector. He discovered how combining the features and benefits of golf with the issues facing society created some compelling partnership opportunities and admits: “It’s the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done in my life.” He added: “Our sessions are helping some of the most physically and mentally challenged people in our communities, such as those suffering with dementia or Parkinson’s, to discover how golf can improve their lives. “We believe that only by creating strong and effective partnerships can we improve the health of our ageing population and I am grateful to Textron Golf and all the other parties I have been able to meet with since joining Golf

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Business International.” He is now in discussions with a second corporate partner of Golf Business International, Huxley Golf, which specialises in the supply and installation of all-weather golf products, about the possibility of installing artificial putting greens at care homes. Formed originally as the Golf Consultants Association in 1999, Golf Business International, which rebranded in 2017 and is now a ‘preferred partner’ of England Golf, is unique in its ability to make available a team of highly respected and experienced golf industry professionals to deal with any aspect of the business of golf through from conception to end. For more information about Golf in Society and its projects, contact Anthony Blackburn via email at golfinsociety@gmail.com or 07491 694 938. www.golfbusinessinternational.com

Coping with BIG seasonal changes With the shocking report in recent days from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) on climate change, and with the extreme recent weather we are all experiencing such as flooding and heatwaves, it is becoming more obvious that the way we look after our lawns has to be adapted to mirror these changes. Grasses as we know adapt naturally, but how we care for them needs to fit in with extra demands. Lawns, often the largest and most visible areas of the garden, illustrate the impacts of extreme weather most clearly, just look at all the images over the summer of hidden historical gardens such as Gawthorpe Hall in Lancashire that reappeared after the record temperatures. So should we be worried about our lawns? Let’s remember two facts, one, grass is one of the most resilient plants and

NEWS two, good lawn care is about working with not against nature. So let’s look at weather types: Drought After long dry periods, your lawn can look like a dead wilderness but it will revive. But you need to look at the soil, in drought conditions the soil can shrink when the air is being squeezed out. That is why aeration is so important, following your usual routine or doing it at the same time as scarifying or overseeding. And watering? Much better to leave this to nature, eventually natural rainfall will bring the soil moisture back to normal.

Rain If your lawn has been flooded, don’t leap in too soon. The water will eventually drain through and when it does you don’t need many rain free days for the ground surface to become drier. But you will need to aerate more regularly than you usually do, as the excessive water will have squeezed out the air from the soil. But first, allow time for the soil to drain, working on saturated soil will do more harm than good. Snow & Frozen Ground When the ground is frozen nothing happens, the air and the water in the soil will still be there. And if the lawn also has a blanket of snow for any length of time, nothing especially bad will come from this. However, if snow is lying on non frozen soil, this can create a warm canopy over the ground. This in turn produces the ideal environment for disease pathogens to activate. So once he snow has thawed, keep a vigilant eye out for signs of disease. And remember grass is a plant and it takes up carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas and if we sequester it, we can help to remove it from the atmosphere. So, even when you think your lawn has stopped growing, its still does it’s bit for the environment. Adaptive grasses need no help. Our methods just need to adapt a bit too. www.davidhedges-gower.com

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The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

FEATURE

Untangling apprenticeships Robin Jackson, Land Based Manager at City & Guilds, offers advice on apprenticeships in landscaping and horticulture

Most employers will be aware of apprenticeships as a means of taking on new staff and then providing them with the knowledge and skills appropriate for that business. In essence, they are a formal training scheme which allow businesses to grow and develop their own talent. However, for employers who might not have been an apprentice themselves, or have not taken on an apprentice, the process can feel complex and mysterious. This is not helped at present because we are going through a period of transition in England to new employer led and funded apprenticeships. Following feedback from employers that apprenticeships were not supplying them with work ready employees, the Government commissioned the Richard Review of Apprenticeships in 2012, which recommended that

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employers are more directly involved, making them central in both the design and the delivery of new Apprenticeship programmes. The outcome were apprenticeship Standards in England (although not currently in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland). These new apprenticeships were developed by groups of employers and intended to be short, concise and easy to understand. They describe the skills, knowledge and behaviours required for an individual to be considered fully competent in a specific occupation/ named job role. Associated with each Standard is an Assessment Plan, also designed by the same employer group, which sets out how each apprentice will be rigorously and independently assessed to determine competency. You can access information about which apprenticeships are available to deliver from the Institute for Apprenticeships website.

FEATURE

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

FEATURE Offering apprenticeships – the must haves So if you are an employer thinking of offering a new apprenticeship, what will it entail for your business? An apprenticeship must: • have a contract of employment, • run for at least 30 paid hours a week, • offer a minimum of 20% off-the-job learning, • last for at least 12 months, • offer a salary of at least the national minimum wage • have an assessment at the end (referred to as independent end-point assessment). Embedding apprenticeships in your business - What do you need to do? • Choosing the right apprenticeship for your business - You will need to identify most appropriate apprenticeship standard which relates to the job role you want to fill and which is ‘available to deliver’, for example, “Landscape Operative”; employers are not able to access funding or the levy to pay for an apprenticeship programme they develop themselves. • Choose an apprenticeship provider - identify an

KING FEEDERS UK SPECIALIST SHREDDING & COMPOSTING EQUIPMENT

www.ecogreencomposting.co.uk Tel: 01260 223273 16

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FEATURE

approved training provider that is a good cultural fit for your business and agree a price for the total cost of the apprenticeship, including the training costs. • Who can do an apprenticeship? There are now no maximum age restrictions on becoming an apprentice, as long as the individual is 16 years old or older and they can be either a new or a current employee. • S electing an end point assessment provider - This must be undertaken by an organisation that is independent of the employer, training provider and apprentice. The employer must select this organisation from the Register of End Point Assessment Organisations, and then the training provider contracts with this organisation on behalf of the employer. The employer, training provider and apprentice must work collaboratively together throughout the apprenticeship to ensure that the apprentice develops the required knowledge, skills and behaviours. Once all three agree that the apprentice has become competent and met all mandatory requirements identified in the apprenticeship, the apprentice is ready to test their skills and knowledge via the end-point assessment. What about small businesses? If you are a smaller business who doesn’t pay the

apprenticeship levy, it’s worth noting that you can access up to 90% of the maximum available funding, but must pay pro-rata the remaining 10% However, in the recent budget statement, The Chancellor of the Exchequer announced that at some point in 2019, this employer contribution will be reduced to 5%. Why should you consider apprenticeships for your business? Taking on apprentices is a fantastic opportunity to develop a diverse and motivated workforce with the skills your business needs. Apprentices will help to increase productivity and reduce your staff turnover and recruitment costs. You are guaranteed workers that meet your skills needs, the standard they must meet in order to complete their apprenticeship has been developed by employers in our industry who understand our demands. Shape your employees’ development and build the workforce you need to tackle the problems we face today and remove the threat that future challenges may bring. For more details on apprenticeships please visit The Institute of Apprenticeships: www.instituteforapprenticeships.org City & Guilds: www.cityandguilds.com

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

EVENTS

Soft-landscape workshop Garden designer Andrew Wilson, Sheffield alumni Ken Thompson and award-winning landscape architect John Wyer will lead the discussion on ‘Biophilia’ at Palmstead Nurseries’ soft-landscape workshop in January 2019. Palmstead’s annual workshop traditionally puts plants and planting at the heart of its discussion, and 2019 is no different. Nick Coslett, organiser of the event says: “The topic for 2019 is biophilia - the idea that as human beings we possess an innate tendency to seek connections with nature. In other words, for us, as an industry green is good and absolutely vital for a habitable future. However, as an industry we know that some greens are better than others. If we are to truly embrace the idea of biophilia we need to look to the future and to ask whether the urban spaces we are creating are fit for purpose – will they be a healthy place to live? Do we need to think differently about the plants we use and the planting styles that have been on trend if we are to truly connect with nature? “We know that successful landscapes are achieved by

collaboration and team work – we want the workshop to look at how we work together as an industry and to ask some really pertinent questions such as do we need to fight harder to convince the construction industry that they need the landscape profession from the beginning of a project to the end? Palmstead is a hub where networks and collaboration can start and form links – there is a reservoir of knowledge about plants that collaborating customers can tap in to.” Palmstead Nurseries Soft Landscape Workshop ‘Biophilia - Green Is Good’ is on Wednesday 23 January 2019 at the Ashford International Hotel in Kent. A shuttle bus service will collect delegates from Ashford International Station (35 minutes train journey from London St Pancras). The event will host speakers from the world of garden design and landscape architecture and exhibitors from the industry. The event always provides good networking opportunities and new ideas. Tours of Palmstead Nurseries are available at the end of the event. Delegate booking is on line at palmstead.co.uk

Opportunity: beautiful borders Making an impression is a big deal for any business, and in the competitive world of garden design and landscaping, finding a way to stand out from the crowd is critical. Show Gardens are a fantastic way of adding gravitas to a garden design portfolio and qualifying experience, but for a first timer a Show Garden can be intimidating in terms of sponsorship, resources, time and investment. BBC Gardeners’ World Live has the solution – the Beautiful Borders category is a stepping stone into the exciting world of Flower and Garden Shows.

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Beautiful Borders is a major visitor attraction at BBC Gardeners’ World Live, an event which entertains upwards of 100,000 visitors each year, on 13-16 June 2019 at Birmingham’s NEC. Each Beautiful Border offers up a wealth of ideas in terms of colour, planting and design – all of which can be translated into re-energising a patch of your own garden. As a garden designer, landscaper or horticultural student, creating a Beautiful Border can give you and your company confidence, energy and purpose. All that plus exposure to some of the country’s keenest gardeners and resulting media coverage will help your company to grow. The theme for 2019 is ‘Our Space’ which offers up a chance to be creative with use of plants to create a dynamic, eye-catching and impactful small space with a sense of purpose. Nikki Hollier, Platinum Award winner and Best Border

EVENTS

in 2018, said: “I loved creating a Beautiful Border at BBC Gardeners’ World Live– it was a well organised event and a great brand to work with. I would recommend anyone to exhibit and create a garden – it’s stressful at times, but worth it! The team was so organised and want you to do well; it’s in their interests to make sure you are successful. I made friends with my garden neighbours and created some fabulous memories.”(borderinabox.com) James Lanwarne of Lanwarne Landscapes, winners of a Gold Award for their Beautiful Border in 2016 and Gold Award for their subsequent Show Garden at BBC Gardeners’ World Live in 2017 explains how doing a Beautiful Border “created a positive energy around the business” and how “You can’t rely on things just happening, you’ve got to get out there!” (lanwarnelandscapes.co.uk)

Applications close 29 Jan 2019. www.bbcgardenersworldlive.com/apply

180? Let’s party! Celebrating the 180th anniversary of the charity dedicated to helping horticulturists, Perennial will hold its annual Party for Perennial on Tuesday 29 January 2019. The anniversary party will be in the wonderful surroundings of La Goccia restaurant at Petersham Nurseries in Covent Garden, London. The party will kick-start Perennial’s 180th anniversary fundraising. Tickets, costing £28, include a glass of fizz on arrival, as well as delicious Italian light bites and there will be a raffle with fabulous prizes to be won. The event is a popular fixture of the calendar for the horticulture trade, providing a great opportunity for catching up with friends and networking while raising money for Perennial. Anita Bates, Perennial’s Director of Marketing and Development comments: “We are thrilled to have this stunning venue to host our Party for Perennial 2019, providing a really special setting to kick off our 180th

anniversary year in style. Those who have attended before know not only what a fun night the Party for Perennial is, but also that the funds raised make a real difference to the lives of the people we help. Tickets are now available so put the date in your diary and join us.” All money raised through ticket sales and the raffle will help support all UK horticulturists and their families who come to Perennial for help. As the only charity that helps individuals working in and retired from all sectors of the horticulture industry, Perennial is a lifeline for people that have nowhere else to turn. Party for Perennial 2019 Venue: La Goccia, Petersham Nurseries Covent Garden, London Date: Tuesday 29 January 2019 Time: 7:30pm - 11:00pm Ticket price: £28 (incl. glass of fizz on arrival and light bites) www.perennial.org.uk/party

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

BTME

Show n Turf Karl Hansell on why the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition (BTME), returning to Harrogate this January, is an unmissable opportunity for turf professionals and buyers from across Europe. To maintain your position as the leading company or service provider in your area you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stand still. You must continually evolve, adapting to changes within the industry and consistently offering new innovations and improved services. When you find yourself at the top of your profession, making changes can be a risk. But the rewards can be incredible, helping change the industry landscape as you embrace new challenges and rise to the occasion. So it is that BTME, the premier turf management exhibition in Europe, has undergone an evolution ahead of its hosting in 2019, due to take place from Tuesday 22 to Thursday 24 January. Utilising new exhibition halls, the show has been reoriented to centre around the Harrogate Convention Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s main auditorium and provide a more expansive,

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engaging and modern visitor and exhibitor experience. By increasing potential stand space by around 25%, BIGGA has provided more opportunities than ever for exhibitors to engage with visitors to the show in new ways. And the turf industry has responded positively to the change, with 93% of exhibition space already booked up, with two months to go until the event. 2019 will also see a greatly improved visitor experience, with new opportunities to engage with the event through innovations such as Golf Construction Live, a short format presentation area and a New Products Area. A Member Wellness Area will provide attendees the opportunity to get help and advice on hearing aid, skincare and mental health awareness. BTME is hosted by BIGGA, the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association, but with such a close relationship between golf course maintenance and other amenity sectors, the event is a must-attend for those in the professional landscaping industry. Over 4,500 turf management professionals attended BTME in 2018.

BTME

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

BTME Recognising the importance of BTME to the wider industry, major product manufacturers and dealers build their annual campaigns around the timing of BTME, perfectly timed for when greenkeepers and grounds professionals are planning their activities for the coming year. As always, BTME will feature a number of products never seen before in the UK and European turf maintenance industry. Furthermore, industry representatives wholeheartedly embrace the opportunity to meet with a huge number of potential customers and interested parties, spreading the word about their latest innovations. Karen Proctor, Director of Global Marketing, Textron Golf, has supported BTME for many years and she explains the role the show has played in their continuing success. “As one of the industry leaders in our field, it is a fantastic opportunity to showcase new products, talk to members of the press about these products and network with our customers, dealers and industry professionals,” she says. “The staff at BIGGA do a great job ensuring BIGGA

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goes from strength to strength each year. The education, the exhibition and the coming together of our industry is a joy to be a part of and Jacobsen look forward to supporting BTME each year. “Harrogate is an ideal venue for BTME. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars within the vicinity of the exhibition centre, which means that networking and aftershow events are easily accommodated. BTME is more than an exhibition, it’s a feeling of community.” As usual, Continue to Learn will kick-off the week, beginning on Sunday 20 January. With an extensive programme across more than 250 hours of education, the new exhibition hall composition will place Continue to Learn at the very heart of the BTME experience. In addition to regular favourites such as the Turf Managers’ Conference and the Young Greenkeepers’ Conference, new offerings will include an Ecology and Environment Forum, Deputies’ Forum and Links Forum. BTME 2019 itself begins with the ever-popular BTME Welcome Celebration, taking place on the opening evening.

BTME

Naga Munchetty will again host the BTME Welcome Celebration

Housed in a new location in the Harrogate Convention Centre’s main auditorium, television presenter Naga Munchetty will once again host the event, when a number of BIGGA members will be recognised for their achievements throughout the year. During the BTME Welcome Celebration, the winners of the BIGGA Awards 2019 will also be announced. Revamped to coincide with the new exhibition structure, three awards will be handed out. The new categories are: • Outstanding Contribution of the Year sponsored by Jacobsen • Championship Performance of the Year sponsored by Rigby Taylor • Greenkeeping Project of the Year sponsored by Baroness Harrogate is ideally placed for easy travel to the event, with Leeds Bradford International Airport just 10 miles away and excellent rail links to London and further afield. The historic spa town also has excellent hotel accommodation within a short distance of the convention centre. BTME takes place at the Harrogate Convention Centre from Tuesday 22 to Thursday 24 January 2019. For more information visit www.btme.co.uk

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Anna Charles Head Ranger, Forest of Marston Vale.

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EDITORIAL

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LIGHTING

Shine the Light on Service – Get the best from your Lighting Suppliers In the world of e-commerce, buying goods at any level can be a very anonymous process. Within the garden lighting world, many websites list vast amounts of lower quality lights to sell as many as possible at prices that seem heavily discounted. Within this ever-growing maze of discounts and faceless selling, there does seem in some cases to be a welcome return to traditional processes associated with good service. For trade professionals, now more than ever, it’s the right time to build trust with suppliers. This is now equally as important as the products those companies offer. There are several questions to ask when choosing outdoor lighting suppliers. The first obvious one considers the product range - does it inspire in some way ? Does the website showcase quality as well as some individuality? Are products tried and tested in any way? Are there enough specifications and photographs of fittings? Are samples and catalogues available? Knowing whether the lights are in stock is also important, some websites time delivery in ‘weeks’ rather than ‘days’! Ideally, a free next working day delivery like Lumenas, is favoured although not many companies offer this. Companies including Lumena do offer a drop ship service so goods are sent direct to project site. As a lighting company dealing with many new Garden Designers and Landscapers, we’ve found that

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explanations on subjects such as 12v lighting are great to have readily available on any platform. 12v or Low Voltage lighting is a fantastic ‘way-in’ for non-electricians in the trade, looking to supply lights to their customer. 12v lights use a 240v to 12v transformer to power lights which are often ‘Plug & Play’. They’re a much safer and more weatherproof option than mains 240v, and by law, don’t have to be installed by an electrician. Can your supplier also assist with any technical queries or lighting plans? Lighting is now a huge factor in garden design with the concept of an “Outdoor Room” proving popular. Incorporating the correct lighting really enhances and transforms the garden once darkness falls. It’s best to educate about the different types of lighting, where possible demonstrating the different effects created, rather than simply showcasing general appearance. Alongside all of the above, Lumena offer trade discounts as well as advise on any garden lighting plans you may have. Contact the team now on 01327 871161 sales@lumenalights.com www.lumenalights.com

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

ARBORIST

Royal Forestry Society awards Six woodsmen from the Balcombe Estate, Haywards Heath have received Royal Forestry Society awards in recognition of their combined 248 years of experience and knowledge managing and improving the estate’s 500ha of woodland. The awards were presented by RFS Immediate Past President Sophie Churchill OBE on a visit to the RFS South Eastern Division. Awards went to: Clive Boniface, 63, particularly known for his coppicing of sweet chestnut and thinning plantations. Over the last 44 years he has improved the estate’s woodlands, and his work is second to none. Ernie Fry, 73, has worked in both the woods and the sawmill over the past 40 years, mastering the controls of a timber crane and continuing to extract timber from the woodlands. Russell Law, 53, is the main tractor driver for the forestry department, hauling timber on the MB TRAC, hedgecutting and running the wood chip enterprise. He joined the estate from school as a YTS worker 37 years ago. Sandy Lewis, 75, has worked for the estate for 43 years. He drove the Volvo forwarder in the post-1987 storm clearance operations and controlled grey squirrels until warfarin was removed from forest use. He now prunes Christmas trees and maintains footpaths on the estate. Sandy was the son of the estate’s former head gamekeeper

L-R: Balcombe Estate’s Woodsmen: Sandy Lewis, Nicholas Martin, RFS Past President Sophie Churchill OBE, owner Mrs Greenwood, Mark Napper, Ernie Fry, owner Mr Greenwood, Russell Law and Clive Boniface

Jack Lewis, and his brother Kendrick was the head forester for 50+ years. Nicholas Martin, 65, received his medal for 43 years’ service. He operated a Hymac/Tapio harvester throughout the clear-up operations after the 1987 storm and is particularly noted for his large hardwood tree felling abilities. A great woodsman, Nick‘ encouraged natural regeneration in many a woodland area by spreading acorns around during his lunch breaks! Mark Napper, 56, is an all rounder whose ability with a brushcutter is second to none, the only thing that slows him down is the machine itself! Phenomenally strong, Mark is your man if you need something pushed, pulled or lifted out of the way! He has worked on the estate for 41 years.

Six-figure contract Commercial nursery, Johnsons of Whixley, has teamed up with contracting company, p1 Solutions/Contractors, to spruce up a multi-million pound hidden gem in Scotland. Saughton Park, in Edinburgh, has been subject to a £6.7 million restoration project that includes the walled garden, winter garden and the 110-year-old bandstand, Italian garden, children’s playground and multi-use sports court. As part of the improvements, Edinburgh-based p1 Contractors and its sister firm, p1 Solutions, has been handling the largescale project including soft landscaping, landscape conservation and various refurbishments, and enlisted Johnsons to supply thousands of plants in a contract worth more than £100,000 to the North Yorkshire nursery. Johnsons has supplied products across five different areas of the garden, including 70 pleached carpinus, 90 trees, 11 betulas, and more than 5,000 hedging plants.The rose garden supply was

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worth more than £40,000 and included 8,000 herbaceous plants, shrubs and roses for the rose garden. The nursery, based between Harrogate and York, also spruced up the Italian garden’s new-look border with 6,000 plants including Allium purple sensation. Richard McMonagle, director of p1 Contractors Ltd, said: “The outcome of this project has been fantastic. It hasn’t been an easy task by any means with over 1,000 plant varieties on the order. Johnsons really has excelled itself in only having to offer minimal substitutes from the original specifications and sourcing a lot of stock that we don’t normally see on our usual day-to-day schemes.” Ellie Richardson, Johnsons of Whixley’s marketing co-ordinator, added: “It’s great to be involved with a full renovation of a wellknown Scottish park with a long-standing customer. The supply has been ongoing for a year so it’s great to see the finished result.”

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ARBORIST

Ecoplug Max controls stumps with ease Ecoplug Max is a patented tree stump control application method, originally developed in Sweden to deliver more efficient forestry clearance. The unique plug acts as a delivery device for glyphosate into the tree or stump. Each plug contains 283mg of granular glyphosate which is translocated through the stump and down to the roots preventing new growth sprouting and leaving the stump to gradually rot away. The unique design eliminates the risk of chemical spillage, and the application method reduces the risk of chemicals getting into water or potential overdosing. Ecoplug Max’s latest formulation, identified by MAPP 17581, is authorised by the Chemicals Regulation Division, (CRD), ‘for use in all situations, (stump).’ It can be used on tree stumps in forests or amenity vegetation and on land immediately adjacent to aquatic areas as well as within the aquatic zones of rivers or lakes described by CRD as Open and Enclosed waters. Under an Extension of Authorisation for Minor Use (EAMU) in standing trees, Ecoplug Max may also be used where felling is not possible, by inserting plugs from the side of

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standing trees and leaving them in situ. For this application, plugs should be inserted from the side of the tree, just above ground level. Application 1: Cut the tree as close to the ground as possible. 2: Using the Ecoplug Max drill bit make the appropriate number of holes in the living part of the stump just inside the bark. Each hole should be 25-30mm deep, 13mm wide. 3: P lace an Ecoplug Max in each hole with the narrow end first. The top of the plug will protrude by about 10mm. 4: U sing a hammer, hit each Ecoplug Max until the head is flush with the stump. This will force out the sides of the plug and release the glyphosate. For more information telephone the technical hotline on (01954) 717575 | www.monsanto-ag.co.uk Roundup ProVantage contains glyphosate. Roundup is a registered trade mark of the Bayer Group USE HERBICIDES SAFELY.ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND PRODUCT INFORMATION BEFORE USE

HORTICULTURE

Self-watering planters With the capacity to be left unattended for up to 12 weeks without watering, Lechuza self-watering planters are perfect for those wanting plants and greenery, but without the time to tend to them. Budding gardeners can now buy Lechuza products online from more retailers, including crocus.co.uk, Waitrose & Partners Garden website and RHS Plants Online. Lechuza’s Key Account Manager, Ian Riggs, commented: “All three of our new stockists are big names in the online horticultural retail world, so we’re pleased to see leading names like Crocus, Waitrose & Partners Garden and RHS

Plants Online recognising the benefits and popularity of Lechuza products and offering these to their customers.” Lechuza takes the guesswork out of plant care – something that naturally puts many people off investing in plants and pots. Over-watering or drying out pot plants is now history thanks to the innovative and stylish selfwatering planter system, which features an internal reservoir that delivers precisely the correct amount of water and nutrients to growing plants, ensuring optimum growth, strong roots and good overall health. www.lechuza.co.uk

Key supplier to £3.5m project Wildflower Turf Ltd has recently been nominated as a key supplier by Cornwall Council as part of the council’s Green Infrastructure for Growth (GI4G) project. The Hampshire-based wildflower experts are assisting Cornwall Council and its incumbent contractor Cormac with the delivery of a £3.5 million programme invested in public recreational areas, roadside verges and old churchyards to make them better places for people and wildlife. Seven Cornish towns have been identified to receive investment through GI4G, with the environmental funding focus creating a nature-rich habitat across an area equivalent to 35 rugby pitches. In consultation with environmental specialists from

Exeter University and with guidance supplied by the team from Wildflower Turf Ltd, Cornwall Council established a number of wildflower trial sites during late Summer/ Autumn 2017. The germination and growth results were very convincing and both Wildflower Turf and Wildflower Earth™ products are now being used across the various sites nominated by the Council, who have worked in close consultation with local communities to identify areas to benefit from this urban green space investment. James Hewetson-Brown, Managing Director at Wildflower Turf Ltd said: “It is heartening to see the commitment of Cornwall Council to developing biodiversity and wildflower

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

HORTICULTURE spaces in the South West. We are delighted to be involved with this exciting project and have enjoyed watching the speed with which these habitats have established and are now benefitting wildlife.”

The Green Infrastructure for Growth Project is supported by funding from the European Regional Development Fund, Cornwall Council, and the University of Exeter. www.wildflowerturf.co.uk

Soft-landscape workshop

John Lawrence, Amenity and Landscape Sales Key Account Manager at Wyevale Nurseries, with (from left to right) Amelanchier ‘Rainbow Pillar’, Sycoparrotia ‘Purple Haze’, Viburnum dentatum ‘Blue Muffin’, Dianella ‘Blue Stream’ and Anthyllis Barba-jovis.

Wyevale Nurseries has unveiled its new amenity crop range for 2020, with eight new plants selected based on their habit, colour and functionality. Kyle Ross, Production Manager at Wyevale Nurseries based in Hereford, explained: “We have been trialling and testing these plants over the past two years to ensure the crops we put forward are the absolute best for our customers. Trialling consists of reviews of the plant’s hardiness, comparing different growing and pruning methods and monitoring susceptibility to pest and diseases.” The selection includes: • Amelanchier ‘Rainbow Pillar’ – a compact, upright small tree, which is mildew tolerant. • Teucrium fruticans ‘Selection’ – round and tough silver foliaged with purple flowers, an excellent Lavandula alternative. • Sycoparrotia ‘Purple Haze’ – a rare new introduction. A low growing and spreading shrub, autumn foliage colours of purple, yellow, red and orange. • Viburnum nudum ‘Brandywine’ – an excellent, branching plant with glossy red leaves. • Viburnum dentatum ‘Blue Muffin’ – eye-catching,

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upright with diamond leaves. Multi-functional use within planting schemes or hedges. •D ianella ‘Blue Stream’ – a clumping Dianella, strong and vigorous with Glaucus blue foliage. •A nthyllis Barba-jovis – Jupiter’s Beard – this coastal specimen boasts an incredible upright habit, with feathery silver foliage. Perfect as a focal plant. • E uonymus ‘White Spire – brand new to the trade and a Wyevale Nurseries’ exclusive, this compact shrub has some of the best variegation Euonymus has to offer. It can be used as hedging or for border planting. John Lawrence, Amenity & Landscape Sales Key Account Manager at Wyevale Nurseries, added: “We’ve seen a growing demand from our customers looking to bring added value to their plant schemes, be it different colours, different textures or the need to respond to challenging site conditions like we saw with this year’s hot summer. Coupled with increased scrutiny of plant health means it’s a great opportunity to be able to explore and offer new high-quality solutions to an ever-changing landscape from our own production and offer these to the UK landscape market.” www.wyevalenurseries.co.uk

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The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

HORTICULTURE

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The Society of Garden Designers (SGD) has released a new membership film designed to promote the benefits of registered membership and support members, and other designers in profession, who are considering undertaking the SGD adjudication process to become fully registered members. ‘Membership of the Society of Garden Designers’ features SGD Council member Andrew Duff MSGD explaining the benefits of registered membership alongside six members sharing their experience of the SGD adjudication process and describing how registered membership has supported them as professional garden designers and helped their businesses to grow. Sarah Morgan MSGD, Chair of the SGD said: “I am delighted to say the Society has seen an increase in membership in all categories over the last two years and we have had some talented designers coming through to join our growing pool of registered members. I have no doubt that our new film will help to promote further the benefits of engaging with the pathway to registration for new and existing pre-registered members, or indeed for those in our profession who may not be aware of the Society and what it has to offer.” The film was launched at the SGD Autumn Conference on Saturday 17 November 2018, is available to view on the SGD YouTube channel and the SGD website. www.sgd.org.uk

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HORTICULTURE

Generation Game A key innovator in driving the expansion of Hillier Garden Centres over the past 60 years, John Hillier recently retired at the age of 83. He hands the baton to a new generation of board directors, which also welcomes two new family members - George Hillier and Martin Hillier. John’s achievements over the years are not only celebrated by Hillier Garden centres across the country, but by horticulturists who recognise his dedication and impact he’s had on the industry. As part of the fourth generation of the family, John has seen Hillier undergo significant changes and developments into both the commercial and horticultural worlds. He is the eldest son of famed plantsman Sir Harold Hillier, who was the great grandson of Edwin Hillier and founder of the Hillier Arboretum, or the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens as they are now known. John and his younger brother, Robert, spent their childhoods growing up in the Arboretum, which was also the site of the family home, and witnessed their father’s dedication to plants. Sir Harold, like his father, grandfather and great grandfather before him, had a special prowess for combining being a knowledgeable, passionate plantsman with being an astute businessman, something which he passed on to his sons, both of which he encouraged to experience the horticultural business from the ground up. John worked in the family business until he was called up on National Service in Libya. Upon returning he spent time working at two nurseries in America before coming back to England to work at the company’s nursery in Eastleigh. As soon as his ship from the USA docked in Southampton in 1958 John was whisked to London to work on his first RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The following year, looking after the company’s exhibit at the world-famous show became John’s responsibility, and he still works the Hillier stand at Chelsea every year. When Sir Harold Hillier retired, John and his brother Robert headed up the company and helped to transform it to today’s commercial entity, growing the business from an annual turnover of £600,000 to £33million. John has always been concerned that plants should be useful for home gardeners and this theme is still evident today in the Hillier Chelsea Flower Show exhibits. Part of the Hillier ethos is to inspire people to be able to create beautiful

gardens at home, which is something Hillier has encouraged for some time. While the people behind the scenes are incredibly knowledgeable about plants from all around the world, they aren’t elitist and aim to encourage those who are starting their gardening journey by imparting their knowledge and helping people enjoy everything gardening has to offer. This is evident in John’s work into discovering new plants. For him, ensuring that new plant discoveries are suitable for modern gardens and domestic gardeners has been imperative. He has worked on many RHS committees and been involved in Hillier’s own extensive Research and Development into new plant varieties, always making sure the home gardeners are kept in mind. John also played a prominent role in the developing of the company’s wholesale and mail order business which originally formed a vast part of the business. He has most recently worked with Roy Lancaster to publish the eighth edition of the Hillier Manual of Trees and Shrubs, a popular reference book first published in 1971 by Sir Harold Hillier. In 1996, John’s dedication to plants was recognised by the RHS when he became the third Hillier to be awarded the RHS Victoria Medal, the RHS’s highest accolade. After more than 60 years with the company, John is now retiring to make way for the future generations of Hilliers with Martin and George Hillier, his son and nephew respectively, joining the board. Hillier, the UK’s largest grower of semi-mature trees, is built upon a heritage of 154 years of horticultural excellence and expertise. This began in 1864 when Edwin Hillier opened a florist shop in Winchester and the company has grown from strength to strength ever since. Today, Hillier operates 12 Garden Centres and a wholesale nursery, as well as specialising in suppling semi-mature trees to the landscaping industry.

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

HARDSCAPER

Playing solutions by the Tigers Eton College has long been regarded as one of the UK’s leading independent schools, renowned for its academic excellence and famous alumni. However, in the world of sport it is also recognised for its hockey provision, with a number of pupils even going on to play at an international level. With this in mind, when one of its oldest pitches began to deteriorate, upgrading the surface was made a priority. The college’s two full sized hockey pitch installations are used for lessons, co-curricular training and competitive fixtures. Originally installed in 1998 and 2002, the pitches served the college and its 1,300 pupils extremely well over the years. However, with this long lifespan came the expected signs of ageing. Michael Chapman, Building Surveyor comments: “The colour had started to fade and in parts the surface had deteriorated and begun to move. We knew that this could really hamper the quality of play, and impact the pupils’ ability to develop their skills so we started researching what artificial grass surfaces were available on the market.” After much consultation and with the help of specialist sports surface contractor, McArdle Sport-Tec, the first of the pitches was resurfaced with TigerTurf’s Evo Pro artificial grass in 2015. Mr Chapman continues: “It was an instant hit. Everyone

loved it and we heard nothing but positive praise for the new pitch, with pupils saying it played faster and more consistently. As a college which prides itself on the offering it provides, Evo Pro was the natural choice when we were looking to resurface the second pitch.” This time came in July 2018, when the second pitch was resurfaced in just eight days – a particularly impressive turnaround for the 6,014sq m installation. Meeting the FIH National standards, Evo Pro is a high-quality artificial grass manufactured from the latest in monofilament yarn technology. Established as the UK’s number one choice amongst education and community facilities, the dressed carpet is half filled with a special rounded silica sand. This offers improved comfort and safety, as well as easy maintenance. It also creates a grain free playing surface meaning the ball travels smoothly in all directions, making it the perfect surface for the pupils to hone their skills on. Mr Chapman concludes: “We wanted the pitches to be a place the pupils would be excited and proud to play and train on, and that’s exactly what the Evo Pro surface has helped us to create. Not only that, it also looks very smart and we even had the Eton College logo incorporated into the carpet at the entrance, which makes it that little bit more special.”

… Tiger Turf has also been busy keeping the grounds at Burnley Tennis Club in ace condition. The club has offered members artificial courts since 1998, but after two decades the original synthetic playing surfaces struggled to match the club’s high expectations. The club required a surface that would not only play well, but would also be easy to maintain all year round. An investigation into some of the best quality surfaces on the market and a series of visits to other local clubs with artificial courts soon led the club’s identifying TigerTurf’s Advantage Pro as its preferred surface for the five refurbished courts. Advantage Pro is made from a unique polymer, designed so it doesn’t shine when wet, or under floodlights. Even after heavy use, the surface retains its shape and structure resulting in high performance, resilience and durability.

see five courts renewed with the Advantage Pro surface by May 2018. The £80k project, which will see a further court replaced in 2019 was made possible thanks to a 10-year loan from the Lawn Tennis Association and Tennis Lancashire.

A two-phase refurbishment Working closely with Cheshire-based tennis court construction specialist, Platt Construction, Burnley Tennis Club instigated a two-phase refurbishment project that would

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Attracting new members The club now benefits from much more consistent usage across its six courts. Not only has the club exceeded its own member retention target, it has also gained 30 new members; many of whom were attracted by the prospect of playing regularly on some of the best tennis courts in the region. Elaine Barker, Chairman of Burnley Tennis Club, comments: “There have been numerous benefits to having our courts replaced with a new surface. An increase in members will help to boost the longevity and sustainability of the club. “Perhaps even more significantly however, our new courts allow us to increase the number of county-based tournaments we can host, which will increase our revenue and ultimately help to populate our sinking fund and repay our loan.”

MOWERS

Progressive mower ATCO has been manufacturing lawnmowers for more than 90 years, helping owners maintain their lawns and providing the finest cut. The ATCO ‘Standard’ was the first truly mass-produced motor mower in 1921, and innovation and design have ensured all ATCO machines have kept the finesse and longevity of the brand heritage, while keeping up the needs of today’s lawn lovers. The ATCO Liner 22 SH V is a fine example of progressive innovation, being a premium roller rotary lawnmower powered by a Honda GCV190 Autochoke engine. This mower has a robust hybrid steel chassis with an anti-scalp comb fitted in front to ensure the best possible finish, even on undulating lawns, and innovative new cutting technology in the Twinclip blade (patent pending) that will cut the

grass twice, doubling efficiency, improving the finish and optimising grass collection. A 53cm/21in cutting width makes this mower suitable for moderate sized gardens up to 50m x 50m.

Reducing carbon emissions A fleet of 22 Cub Cadet INFINICUT mowers were recently installed at Ciudad Real Madrid to maintain all the natural pitches at the club’s training facility. In his new role as Director of Grounds and Environment, the switch to the electric INFINICUT’s is another big step in helping Paul Burgess achieve his aim of reducing carbon emissions. “As the largest sports franchise in the world, we have a responsibility to set a precedent when it comes to carbon emissions,” explains Paul, who heads up a grounds team of 60 across both the stadium and training complex. “While we’re always reviewing and exploring new avenues to offset our emissions, a number of initiatives including recycling of irrigation and substituting chemical usage for biological control in our gardens are already well underway. A lot of

work has already taken place, which saw both the stadium and training facility awarded the STMA Environment Certification last year, the first two non-American venues to achieve this accreditation.” For the last two years, three INFINICUT 30” mowers have been in use at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium with the latest delivery of 22 34” models n October 2018. “Being able to run these on electric power ticks a major box for me, and my desire to use clean energy technology. But in addition to that, the performance and quality of cut we achieve with them is superb. The changes in terms of technology has given us the opportunity to create a new uniformity across our fleet,” says Paul. He also purchased a range of TMSystem Cassettes including the SMARTThatchMaster, SMARTSarel and the new SMARTTurfClean post-match clean-up system. By attaching the cassette to the INFINICUT, the SMARTTurfClean cassette becomes more cost-effective than traditional solutions because it is specifically designed for that purpose – doing away with the need to compromise by using a rotary mower. Moreover, it also performs the task without stressing the plant, which is of huge benefit to those fighting turf disease with minimal chemical input. The result is a clean surface with prominent strips, and an undamaged grass plant cleaned of debris right down to the roots. Paul adds: “We are very impressed with how this system performs and have already achieved excellent results.”

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

MOWERS

Spider away! It’s not often that machines are sold at a show, but this happened on booth 7188 at the GIE+EXPO in Louisville, KY when a prospective customer saw the Spider ILD02. He then went outside to see the machine working on the demonstration booth and immediately placed the order. Finance was arranged in a single day and the Spider ILD02 was driven onto their truck at the close of the show. Lubor Hladik, International Sales Manager for Czech manufacturer Dvorak commented: “This is unprecedented. We have never done this in the USA before, and it really made the show for us. We exhibited last year with a major presence and it really has paid off. Many more visitors knew of us and that previous exposure has definitely raised awareness of the brand and capability of our products. “Along with the Spider ILD02, we also exhibited the

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smaller version, the ILD01, our dedicated mower for mowing under the panels on solar farms, the Spider 2SGS and an alpha prototype of our Spider 3RIDER. This unique mower has three steering options, a 90” (2.3 metre) width of cut and can be can be operated by remote control on slopes up to 30 degrees, by an operator who will be in a safe position away from the machine. “The outdoor demonstration area was also a huge draw for visitors; it generated significant footfall back to the indoor booth and really worked well for us. We’re already looking to improve our interaction with visitors next year and are planning a bigger outdoor area to provide an opportunity to drive the machines. Overall an excellent show for our business.” Spider Slope Care is the Orlando-based distributor of Spider remote-controlled mowers from Dvorak. www.spider-cz.com

MOWERS

Spiral mode mowing STIGAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Autoclip 530 SG robotic mower has an integrated GPS system, maps a garden into mowing zones, and works in random and intelligent spiral modes guided by GPS to eliminate cutting previously mowed areas. The specialised mowing algorithm automatically balances the time the robot spends in different areas of the garden. The Autoclip Remote App allows mower control via

Bluetooth or WiFi connection, along with the robots position and its working progress on a self-generated map. Smart sensors detect obstacles on the lawn and the mower can handle narrow passages and slopes angled up to 45%. It also has brushless motors powered by a 7.5Ah Lithium-Ion battery, flexible programming, an eco-mode (mowed lawn detection sensor) and rain sensors. www.stigalawnmowers.co.uk

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

SALTEX

Landscape of opportunity From robotics to hybrid mowers and digital apps, ground-breaking ideas to thought provoking debates, career enhancing advice to limitless opportunities, the recent SALTEX 2018 at the NEC Birmingham was a landscape of possibility and prospect for the future of groundscare Europe’s largest annual groundscare event featured 300 exhibitors, many of which embraced new technologies through the launch of their latest products and services showcased at the event. Chris Wood, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) pitch consultant and a visitor to the show, was certainly impressed with the machinery on display. “My job with the ECB is to gather as much information on all the new innovations and this is one tremendous outlet for that. I always think that we are one big family in this industry and SALTEX is the one occasion of the year where we can come together, network, and look at all the new machinery – it’s like a toyshop at Christmas,” he explains. Innovation Hub The busy show floor offered a fantastic opportunity to witness just how these latest technologies are having a positive impact in the groundscare industry - particularly in the all new Innovation Hub where visitors were free to attend live interviews with industry experts and trend setters at the forefront of new groundscare innovations. This hub was also the ideal platform to showcase and celebrate the SALTEX 2018 Innovation Award. After making its successful debut at last year’s show, the SALTEX 2018 Innovation Award attracted even more entries from various exhibitors across the globe and included a wide variety of high-quality products, services and equipment. Judged by an independent panel of industry experts it was decided that the Toro Outcross 9060 from Reesink Turfcare, PrecisionPro from Sherriff Amenity and the ROBOCUT from McConnel were the stand out entries. Sherriff Amenity’s PrecisionPro app was crowned as the overall winner. However, Sherriff Amenity representatives were not the only trophy winners at the show. Bridgewater and Taunton College saw off fierce competition to win the SALTEX College Cup and the winning students can now look forward to visiting the All England Lawn Tennis Club in the run up to the Wimbledon tournament, to experience court preparation the prestigious clubs’ Head Groundsman, Neil Stubley.

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Careers and business advice SALTEX also saw an increased number of visitors looking to progress within the industry as reported by Frank Newberry’s Job Clinic, which was fully booked throughout the two-day show. The expert careers advisor offered some fantastic tips from perfecting a CV and covering letter to how to succeed at job interviews, negotiating an employment package, proactive job searching and self-employment. Elsewhere there were other opportunities to gain expert advice, which prompted John Ryan, founder of Lawn Care Legends, to travel to the show from Northern Ireland. “I found my visit extremely beneficial because there are a lot of industry people you can connect with that can help provide ideas on how to develop a business. It’s great to see people with such a passion for the industry and share it with others. For anyone who wants to know what’s going on in the industry, I would recommend that they visit SALTEX,” he says. Free advice was available at every turn throughout the three large halls at the NEC. Visitors had the opportunity to gather one-to-one sports turf management advice from Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) regional pitch advisors at the Ask the Expert feature and Pathology and Soil Science LIVE provided an opportunity to share soil samples which were magnified, displayed on a large screen and assessed. Learning LIVE 2018, SALTEX’s all-encompassing education programme, featured more than 50 free-to-attend seminars. Visitors gained Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points for attendance and got to hear from expert speakers from the UK and abroad who focussed on vital issues that affect the industry. James Pope, grounds manager at St Paul’s School in London, said he made the journey to explore new concepts. “I’ve gained more ideas just from coming to this one show than I have all year. SALTEX is the right time of year and it’s the busiest and most vibrant show around - everyone is always in high spirits,” he says. Echoing James, was Ted Mitchell from the Rugby Football Union (RFU), who was pleased to see just how the world’s

SALTEX

Visitors flock to the 2018 SALTEX show

longest standing groundscare exhibition has transformed over the years. “I’ve been attending SALTEX for many years and to see the event as it is today is incredible – it takes your breath away. It offers such a unique opportunity to meet the range of people at SALTEX in five or six hours that would, in any other circumstance, take me a huge amount of time over a number of months. SALTEX brings the industry together all in one place.”

SALTEX does indeed unite every corner of the industry – the manufacturers and suppliers, the visitors and speakers, the governing bodies and associations. All of whom have contributed to the conversations, the learnings, the ideas, the debates, and actively played their part in shaping the future of groundscare and creating opportunity for all. For more information visit www.iogsaltex.com Follow SALTEX on Twitter @IOG_SALTEX and Facebook – www.facebook.com/IOGSALTEX

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

SALTEX

Sherriff Amenity wins SALTEX Innovation Award 2018 Established at the show in 2017, the SALTEX Innovation Award was created to encourage innovation excellence and celebrate the best products within the groundscare industry. The award is bestowed on projects that have a significant impact and ultimately make life easier for the person using them. This year’s award received a record number of high quality entries from across the UK and beyond - spanning a wide variety of products, services and equipment. With the entries submitted and rigorously evaluated by an independent panel of judges, it was decided that there were three stand-out innovations - the Toro Outcross 9060 from Reesink Turfcare, PrecisionPro from Sherriff Amenity and the ROBOCUT from McConnel. The three finalists were given a final opportunity to impress the judges as they took to the stage in the Innovation Hub. Representatives from each company delivered a product presentation in front of a packed audience causing the judges much deliberation before making their final decision. Sherriff Amenity’s ground breaking new app, PrecisionPro was pronounced the overall winner. Second place went to the Toro Outcross 9060; a super-duty utility vehicle, designed specifically to simplify the groundsman’s day-today turf maintenance jobs. Third place went to the McConnel ROBOCUT; an all-terrain remote-control work platform that boosts safety, productivity and efficiency. The winning innovation, PrecisionPro, is a dedicated app for sports turf to measure any area, guide the operator in calibrating a spreader for any granular product and also help apply fertilisers accurately. According to Sherriff Amenity, PrecisionPro was created due to the common issue of turf managers misjudging green/sport surface size which often results in problems such as over applying or under applying fertilisers - both of which can have a negative effect on turf performance, disease and budget. PrecisionPro allows turf managers to have an accurate measured area by simply opening the app and walking the perimeter of the area. Calibrating spreaders has always been a difficult task but with the Calibrate feature in the PrecisionPro app, users are guided through each step of the process. Furthermore, its advanced GPS

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functionality informs the user when to start and stop the calibration process. The app also features a function to ensure that every operator walks at the same speed – if someone is walking too fast or too slow then they are alerted by colour coded screens. As well as calculating the g/m2 and the operator’s walking speed, the Apply feature ultimately ensures that the exact amount of nutrition is being applied to the turf. Commenting on the award, Karl Parry, Sherriff Amenity’s PrecisionPro developer, said: “We are really excited to win this award. PrecisionPro has been a long time in the making but it has all been made worthwhile now. SALTEX was the official launch of the app and after we won the award people kept coming onto the stand to find out more about it, so the word definitely got round at the show. “I’m really proud of the whole team because it has been a big collaborative effort.”

SALTEX

McConnel launch new ROBOCUT range at SALTEX

McConnel has a firm reputation for blazing trails with quality, innovation and technology. Now the company has introduced the ultimate in remote controlled machinery with the next generation ROBOCUT range launched at Saltex. Designed for the most challenging conditions, the all-terrain capability of the all new ROBOCUT is superior on every level. The range comprises two new models, ROBOCUT RC56 and RC75 which surpass all expectations with an exciting new ground up design which incorporates the very latest advancements in technology. The new models boast more power, an advanced feature set and a revolutionary control system for greater output, safety and control. ROBOCUT power comes in the form of two new engine choices, 56hp and 75hp, which have been developed in a partnership with Hatz GmbH specifically for working on steep gradients of 55 degrees. New engines provide up to

75% increase in power resulting in market leading powerto-weight ratio. Fuel efficiency has also increased by 20%, coupled with 100% increase in fuel capacity enabling up to eight hours of operation between refills. A new common chassis design provides a lower centre of gravity and perfect 50/50 weight distribution for maximum stability and control in challenging terrain. Fully integrated, dual roll-over protection bars, quick access lifting points and dedicated accessory mounting points also come as standard. The new feature set includes, a programmable attachment floatation system, StaySafe flailhead hood control for highway mowing, On-machine Activation digital display for customisation of machine settings, Keyless start technology for improved safety, Daytime running lighting to aid visual orientation at distance, high intensity LED work lights and four integrated LED strobe lights with preset ECE compliant sequences.

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

SALTEX

The new remote control unit features informative, high visibility digital display providing valuable feedback to the operator including machine engine RPM, engine temperature and signal strength. ROBOCUTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new ROBOREADY battery dock simultaneously stores and charges one of the two remote control battery packs for quick and convenient change over in field for reduced downtime. The introduction of fully enclosed body panels protect the power unit from damage when working in harsh environments whilst also keeping out grass and debris. The stylised design also incorporates gull-wing style side panels that provide quick and easy access to the engine bay. For the first time GPS Autosteer will be available, developed in conjunction with Trimble, a world leader in a wide range of positioning technologies. GPS Autosteer enables operators to control precise cutting to an accuracy of 25mm from up to 150 metres away, eliminating wasteful overlap with each pass, dramatically increasing productivity. The new power plants enable wider 1.6m and 1.9m flailheads to be fitted to ROBOCUT for greater output. The popular 1.3m Grass, Forestry and Mulcher flailheads remain available within the extensive attachment line-up. www.mcconnel.com

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SALTEX

Celebrating the best in groundsmanship

Celebrating its 10th Anniversary, this year’s Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG) annual Industry Awards, was held on the first night of SALTEX at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole. More than 650 of the UK’s and Europe’s leading groundscare experts from both the professional and volunteer sector, as well as dignitaries from the governing bodies of sport and influential sports administrators, honoured the expertise, dedication and passion of the grounds profession at the IOG awards. Hosted by talkSPORT radio presenter Mark Saggers, the ceremony recognised leadership, innovation and outstanding achievement across every aspect of groundscare – from grassroots pitches to professional stadia. The ceremony also celebrated the quality standards of groundscare achieved in public and private sports venues, and highlighted the progress of young and student grounds professionals as well as entrants’ environmental considerations. The winners of the 2018 IOG Industry Awards were: Toro Most Promising Sports Turf Student of the Year Matthew Skingle, Coventry City FC. Rigby Taylor/Top Green Young Grounds Person of the Year

John Wright, Southampton FC. AMS Volunteer Sports Grounds Team/Person of the Year Crowborough RFC, East Sussex. National Governing Bodies’ Community Sports Club Grounds Team/Person of the Year Stanningley Sports & Amateur Rugby League Club, Leeds. - The National Governing Bodies of sport (NGBs) award is co-sponsored by the AELTC (All England Lawn Tennis Club), ECB (the England and Wales Cricket Board), The FA (Football Association), the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association), the Premier League, the RFL (Rugby Football League), RFU (Rugby Football Union) and Sport England. Public Sector Sports Ground Team of the Year Gavin Jones Ltd (Aspire Defence, Project Allenby/ Connaught), Surrey. Bowling Grounds Team/Person of the Year Burleys (Crouch Bowling Club, East Sussex). SCH Supplies Best Managed Artificial Surface of the Year Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow. Ransomes Environmental and Ecology Strategy Award Forest Green Rovers FC, Gloucestershire. National Governing Bodies’ Professional Multi-Sports Ground/Facility Team of the Year

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

SALTEX

Bath Recreation Ground. The National Governing Bodies of sport (NGB’s) award is co-sponsored by the AELTC (All England Lawn Tennis Club), ECB (the England and Wales Cricket Board), The FA (Football Association), the LTA (Lawn Tennis Association), the Premier League, the RFL (Rugby Football League), RFU (Rugby Football Union) and Sport England. Headland Amenity Professional Cricket Grounds Team of the Year Warwickshire CCC, Edgbaston. John Deere Professional Horse Racing Grounds Team of the Year Lingfield Park Racecourse, Surrey. CubCadet INFINICUT Professional Tennis Courts Grounds Team/Person of the Year Devonshire Park, Eastbourne. ICL/Syngenta Professional Rugby Football League Grounds Team of the Year Leeds Rhinos (Leeds Rugby). Kubota Professional Rugby Football Union Grounds Team of the Year Scottish RFU (BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh). SISGrass Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (English Leagues 1 & 2, National League, National League North/South, Scottish Championship & Leagues 1 & 2, Ireland & Wales Professional Leagues) Rotherham United FC. SGL Professional Football Grounds Team of the Year (Premier League, Championship and Scottish Premier League) Leicester City FC. Redexim Charterhouse/Kubota University/College Grounds Team of the Year University of Leicester. Growth Products Independent School Grounds Team of the Year St Joseph’s College, Ipswich. International Ambassador of the Year

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Jonathan Calderwood, Paris Saint-Germain FC. Ransomes/DLF Johnsons Alex R Millar Award – chosen from the outstanding winner across all award categories Gary Barwell, Warwickshire CCC. Special Recognition Award Mike Hunt and Adrian Morgan, Lord’s Cricket Ground. GrassMaster Solutions Lifetime Achievement Award Peter Dury, who, among many other achievements in sports turf throughout the country, is credited for developing the Pitch Performance Quality Standards that are today’s de facto standards for both natural and artificial playing surfaces. GrassMaster Solutions Outstanding Achievement Award Carl Pass and Steve Prinn - Carl Pass is head of Premier Pitches, a company that works at all levels of the game on pitch renovations and reconstructions, as well as aeration, fertilisation, seeding and spraying. - Now retired as a turf grass lecturer at Askham Bryan College, Steve Prinn is an independent consultant who is skilled in sports surface management. As well as a whole host of City and Guilds accreditations Steve also holds a Master’s degree in sports turf and turf grass management. A special award, for Outstanding Leadership of the IOG, was presented to IOG Chair David Teasdale. Commenting on the high standard of award winners, IOG Chief Executive Geoff Webb, says: “Having this year suffered extreme weather conditions, with the winter’s ‘Beast from the East’ through to this summer’s unprecedented record heatwave, the climate has tested groundsmen to their limits. “It has not been easy, yet we have seen how fantastic our profession is and, against all the odds and on a daily basis battling against the elements, this year’s awards had a fantastic array of nominees who have all achieved very high standards. I applaud everyone and thank them for their efforts in creating amazing playing surfaces.”

PRODUCT REVIEW

Yanmar paints the town red With two production sites based in Saint-Dizier (France) and in Crailsheim (Germany), Yanmar Construction Equipment Europe manufactures and distributes a massive range of landscaping machinery. David Curtis reports. David Cockayne Yanmar’s business manager for the UK clearly enjoyed showing The Landscaper around the massive Saint-Dizier factory. “Yanmar’s quality approach permeates the company’s culture at all levels. We produce reliable, safe and robust machines that perfectly meet the needs of the landscaping industry. “We have a network of over 170 dealers throughout Europe offering speed, reliability and quality of service as well as five excellent UK dealers.”

David Cockayne, Yanmar Business Manager for UK

To celebrate 50 years since launching its very first miniexcavator, Yanmar produced a special edition livery for its SV60 midi excavator. Featuring a distinctive red colour scheme, the special edition model combines ‘sector-leading’ technology and future-proof innovation to deliver a ‘business class’ operator experience. Offering the performance of a midi-excavator with the space-saving benefits of a more compact model, the 5-6 tonne machine has a 3,565mm working envelope. In addition to launching the limited-run model, Yanmar has also released a special film to showcase the crawler excavator build process https://youtu.be/122d3h9oaJ4 With interviews from the production team at Yanmar’s manufacturing facility in St-Dizier, France, the movie takes a ‘behind the scenes’ look at the company’s state-of-theart factory. David explained: “We wanted to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our very first mini-excavator with a series of festivities. Yanmar is renowned worldwide for its excavator range, so launching a limited-run edition of our modern day equivalent seemed a fitting gesture”. Yanmar produce 14 mini excavators from the SV08 with an operating weight of 1.035 kg to the Vi057 operating weight 5.485 kg. They also produce eight midi excavators form the SV60 operating weight 5.635kg to the SV20 operating weight 11300kg . As well as mini and midi excavators they manufacture a range of seven wheeled loaders, four wheeled excavators a range of carriers and a complete range of attachments. Motoring back through France’s magnificent champagne producing countryside towards Paris I concluded that Yanmar will have a growing presence in the UK landscaping and construction industries. For more details visit: www.schaeff-yanmar.com LOCAL YANMAR DEALERS Tallis Amos EVESHAM – Tel 0345 222 0456 Farol Limited MILTON COMMON – Tel 0808 164 7700 CoPlant DOVER – Tel 01303 84447 New Forest Farm Machinery RINGWOOD – Tel 01425 472572 Mawsley Machinery BRIXWORTH – Tel 01604 880621

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

CLASSIFIEDS Cheshire

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HEDGEHOGS Tel: 0127601386 750585 nurSErY 855855 You need it? We’ve got it... Fax: 01276 Worcestershire Swimming Ponds • Weed control fabrics 855055

• Windbreak netting email: rachel@plants.co.uk Do you supply • Bamboo canes Suppliers of: A B C D with E G J L M O S T W X Y landscapers • Ornamental bark AABCDEGJLMOSTWXY BCDEGJLMOSTWX Y EVERGREEN / nursery stock? TRADITIONALnATIOnWIDE DELIVErY HEDGING If so, call this Tel: 01592 772274 PLANTS, info@hedehogs-nursery.co.uk number: ORNAMENTAL www.hedgehogs-nursery.co.uk CONIFERS & TREES, 020 82538377 SHRUBS & HEATHERS web: www.plants.co.uk email:Established rachel@plants.co.uk over 25 years

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

Nationwide

FARLOW FARM NURSERY

ORETON, CLEOBURY MORTIMER, KIDDERMINSTER, WORCS, DY14 0TZ

www.dingleydell.tel

www.farlowfarmnursery.co.uk

Email: sales@farlowfarmnursery.co.uk

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

CGJ MathiasTEL/FAX: & Son (01746) 718688 (Nurseries) AMENITY SALES

TREE &AllSHRUB your plants...SPECIALISTS

Hedging Conifers and Laurels Farnham, Surrey

Lincolnshire

D&R Simmons Ltd

Tel

www.hedgesonline.com

Lawn Edging

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 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

01252 714552

www.landscapermagazine.com

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

Amenity Sales: 01732 770999 www.best4plants.co.uk/trade Over

30 acres of field grown trees from 6-8cm to 25-30cm, bare root and rootballed.

For price and availability Tel: 01949 20445 lance@dwfrost.com shane@dwfrost.com www.dwfrost.com

CLASSIFIEDS Machinery

Irrigation

THE

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

best THINGS

FOR ALL YOUR IRRIGATION NEEDS Design and Advice Irrigation Parts Catalogue 24/7 Online Parts Ordering

come

01473 328272 or visit www.schsupplies.co.uk

stump KING FEEDERS Pedestrian UK grinders

SMALL

SPECIALIST SHREDDING & COMPOSTING EQUIPMENT packages Tunnissen products Blue Chip Chippas Beau products Full technical support & after sales service

www.access-irrigation.co.uk

01788 823811 sales@access-irrigation.co.uk

Artificial Grass

Heftee ad 50x35 01.qxd:Layout 1

Service Lifts

www.ecogreencomposting.co.uk Tel: 01260 223273 DANequip’s stump grinders have the advantage of narrow access down to 28”

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Aeration

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Stump Grinders

USED WOOD CHIPPERS AND STUMP GRINDERS

0% Finance Available

Tel: 01420 474600 Sportsturf Machinery

www.masonwoodchippers.com john@masonwoodchippers.com

Tel 01325 377475

To advertise email

Sprayers

landscaper@sheengate.co.uk

Specialised Landscaping and Turfcare Equipment Visit www.blec.co.uk or call 01778 346222 Leading by design

To advertise email landscaper@sheengate.co.uk

35mm width x 50mm height

Versatile Reliable Performance...

info@groundsmanindustries.com

www.groundsmanindustries.com

The Landscaper | Issue 232 | November/December 2018

STOP PRESS! BALI GoLandscape pledges support to YMCA Training to champion industry apprenticeships The British Association of Landscape Industries’ (BALI) careers initiative, GoLandscape, has forged a partnership with YMCA Training to support their work on delivering industry apprenticeships in the wake of a 28% shortfall in the number of apprenticeships being undertaken in the UK. Along with a decrease in apprenticeships, the Open University have recently reported that only 8% of companies in the UK have drawn from their levy, proving that more support is needed to inspire, educate and encourage industry employers to understand the benefits of taking on apprentices as part of their workforce. YMCA Training - part of Central YMCA - helps young people find new opportunities through work and training. Every year, thousands of apprentices are trained and go on to build rewarding and fulfilling careers. BALI’s Education Officer, Stephen Ensell, says: “GoLandscape is proud to support YMCA Training in the industry apprenticeships they offer; their bespoke training means that, nationally, they can help landscapers develop a workforce that addresses the skill shortfalls they so desperately need, which in turn helps boost the economy and grow their own business. We are really looking forward

www.landscapermagazine.com

to supporting and working with them in the promotion of the industry”. BALI’s GoLandscape initiative launched nationwide in March 2018 at RHS Garden Wisley and has already made significant progress in working with employers and industry colleges to provide more opportunities for school leavers and career changers to find suitable employment within the landscape industry, where their skills and knowledge are mapped to the needs of businesses operating in both domestic and commercial capacities. For more information visit golandscape.co.uk or ymcatraining.org.uk

THE

LANDSCAPER Sales Executive

The Landscaper is the UK’s No. 1 landscaping industry magazine. For over 20 years it’s succinct, no nonsense editorial approach and compact size, together with a highly competitive advertisement rate has resulted in a rapid growth in advertisement market share. ION

AVAILABLE ON SUBSCRIPT

231

LANDSCAPER LANDSCAPER LANDSCAPER LANDSCAPER NOVEMBER/DECEMB

ER 2017

SUMMER DAYS ISSUE 221 | £3.95

SEPTEMBER 2017

THE

35 PAGES OF INDU

STRY NEWS!

JULY 2017

ISSUE 220 | £3.95

ISSUE 223 | £3.95

SPECIAL DOUBLE ISS UE

THE

WEODMONATH

UK’S THE ER 1 NUMB APING SC LANDDUSTRY IN ZINE MAGA

THE

LANDSCAPER

OCTOBER 2018 | ISSUE

SEASON’S GREETING

WINTER’S AT HAND

ISSUE 219 £3.95

AUGUST 2017

SALTEX REPORT | BTME

NURSERIES IN HOLLA

THE UK’S NUMBER 1 LANDSCAPING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

PREVIEW

ND | ARBORIST | HARDS

THE UK’S NUMBER 1 LANDSCAPIN G INDUSTRY MAGAZIN E

CAPER

FOUR OAKS & GLEE FULL REPORTS

SALTEX 2018

ARE PROFESSIONALS EVENT FOR GROUNDSC azine.com

www.landscapermag

COVER STORY:

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FIAT FULLBACK | ARBORIST | HARDSCAPER www.landscapermagazine.com

COVER STORY:

CUB CADET

THE UK’S NUMBER 1 LANDSCAPING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE

n LANDSCAPING IN THE SOUTH WEST n DEALING WITH COMP LAINTS n ROBOTIC MOWERS n MITSUBISHI L200 BARBARIAN n HAMPT ON COURT

www.landscapermag

azine.com

www.cubcadetturf.com

As well as the printed magazine, The Landscaper has a comprehensive digital offering, including newsletters, a free-to-read page turner and a busy website www.landscapermagazine.com. We are now looking for a Sales Executive to work across our classified and display pages, working with the sales manager to continue our growth plans into 2019. While an interest in landscaping is desirable, the successful candidate will be the one who has the passion and determination to hit monthly targets and to source new revenue streams using their networking skills across the landscaping industry. n Field and office based n expected to attend trade shows in UK and Europe n competitive salary with commission structure Please email CV, covering letter and salary expectations to: jobs@sheengate.co.uk or call Priti on 0208 939 5600 for intitial discussion.

EDUCATE EXHIBIT EVOLVE BTME 2019 | 22â&#x20AC;&#x2018;24 January 2019 Harrogate Convention Centre | btme.org.uk

The turf industry is rapidly changing. Autonomous machinery, pioneering grass species and state of the art turf health products are redefining how turf professionals achieve their goals. BTME, too, is evolving, and 2019 will see the exhibition expand into alternative facilities in the Harrogate Convention Centre providing visitors with an enhanced BTME experience.