Last week I attended SALTEX at the NEC, and as always I enjoyed meeting up with colleagues and turf professionals who work across our industry. 

I began the day having a breakfast with David Hart of Kubota who was excited about the launch of their first battery powered zero-turn mowers, the Ze Electric Zero-Turn range. He told me the Ze-421 and Ze-481 are specifically aimed at environmentally concuss customers such as municipalities, professional contractors and residential owners that want to maintain large lawn areas with reduced maintenance, simplified operation and higher levels of operator comfort.

Kubota’s new electric mower 

The engineering development of the Ze range began back in 2017. The key requirements in the development were for a machine that could operate for a full working day, providing driver comfort and cutting quality. 

The “heart” of the Ze is a 48V / 10kW battery which is located at the rear of the machine, pretty much where an engine would sit. This battery has the capacity for over 15 000m² of mowing operation. The Ze has a unique feature in that the battery pack can be quickly and easily removed and another fully charged battery fitted. A second battery and fitting trolley is available which will allow the operator to work continuously during the busy grass cutting season.

Recharging of the battery can be done from the charge connector on the Ze or independently away from the machine. A charger which is compatible with both European and UK domestic plugs is provided, and a full battery recharge takes approximately 5 hours. 

EGO's stand 

For me, the theme of the show new technologies, particularly battery powered products. Most exhibitors were now showing a wide range of products of this type. EGO for example, had a stand dedicated to professional products showing off its new range of Pro X machines that will be available to end users. And again, robotic mowers were also prominent at the show. 

Big Mow robotic mower being demonstrated 

For me, it was also pleasing to have time to talk to several turf professionals and catch up with what they were doing. These included the likes of Karl McDermott from Lord’s,  who is currently having a complete rebuild of the Nursery End of the ground with Fine Turf undertaking the work, with new drainage and irrigation being installed. I also caught up with Lee Metcalf and Dan Lewis, staff from Manchester City FC who spoke highly of the recent appointment of John Ledwidge who took over from Roy Rigby.

L-R: Dave Goodjohn and Karl McDermott 

I also spent time talking to Ted Mitchell, facilities manager for the RFU, about the work of the RFU pitch advisors and how things were progressing for clubs seeking assistance to improve and maintain their pitches. Clubs can now download the Pitch Power App and register their interest, starting the process of gaining help and support to improve both clubhouse and pitch improvements due to the lottery money now being made available by the sport’s governing bodies. Working with the GMA, all four major sports, rugby union, rugby league, football and cricket are all benefiting from this new national funding scheme.  

(Seated right) Ted Mitchell, RFU facilities manager

In fact, during one of the show’s many educational seminars, I was able to hear Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, give a presentation on the work they have been doing to develop the National Management Framework that will help every grassroots sports club and sports facility to achieve the best possible quality playing surface for its users. He also spoke about the work the GMA are doing to improve education, pay and working conditions and raise the profile of both professional and volunteer grounds practitioners.

Geoff Webb 

He said that the findings from some GMA surveys provided some startling information on the challenges the industry faces in the coming years in the realms of recruitment, pay and conditions and the welfare of those working in this diverse industry. 

As for numbers attending the show? I felt that the halls felt reasonably busy with people visiting the array of exhibitor stands, however there was a distinct feeling that many of the stands were smaller and compacted into a smaller area of the show. It will be interesting to hear the official attendance figures of the show.

SALTEX took place at the NEC last week and TurfPro was out and about, capturing the action and speaking to exhibitors.

Here's a quick teaser with full interviews to follow soon.

DLF have announced the completion of a £3.5m investment programme to increase production efficiency and meet market demand across the domestic, landscape and sports turf sectors.

The company says the introduction of new mixing plant technology known as ‘Titan’ to the breeding centre in Inkberrow, Worcestershire, promises to both continue and improve seed quality, increase capacity and play a huge part in supporting the growth of their UK operations. 

Parent company to many sports seed brands including Johnsons Sports Seed, MM and Masterline, alongside leading wild flower ranges Pro Flora and Colour Boost, DLF has undertaken major redevelopment over the last few years to benefit customers and company alike. ‘Titan’ is a new mixing plant technology which they say will more than double the production capability and provide higher in-season capacity and efficiency.

Titan is equipped with 48 seed bins of seven cubic metres, which can hold up to 3 tonnes of seed depending on the species. The pneumatic closed system can input 12 tonnes per hour, and output 6 tonnes per hour from bins to mixers, significantly improving line efficiency through automation. The rotary valves, diverter valves and connecting pipes of ‘Titan’ are all self-cleaning which means that, alongside DLF’s ‘star cleaner’, seed purity is optimised and contamination during the mixing process is eliminated.   

The bespoke control software is also fully integrated with DLF’s operating system, bringing new enhancements to ordering and availability and ensuring optimal supply during peak seasons. 

Commenting on the investment, DLF director of operations UK Martin Swinnerton said, “Titan promises to be a fantastic asset for DLF and in turn our leading sports turf ranges. We have experienced unprecedented demand for product across our portfolio in recent years and with this technology we can output more products to keep up with demand levels and thereby help us to satisfy both new and existing customers by guaranteeing not only a fast but reliable supply chain.”

A 39-strong group of John Deere apprentices are starting the next stage of their careers having qualified as service and parts technicians working in dealerships across the UK. 

2023 Apprentice Graduates: 

• Ben Burgess: Benjamin Cox, Honor Miles, Callum Clarke, Ethan Langley.
• Cornthwaite Group: Benjamin Glover, Kyle Wells, Graeme Riddick, Alfie Thompson, Thomas Howard.
• Farol: William Duggins, Daniel O’Donohue, Makayla Wench, Andrew Gray, Luke Hand, Joseph Scott.
• Geary’s Garage: Patrick Cremin.
• John Deere Forestry: Sean Cochrane, Jamie Duncan.
• MacGregor Industrial Supplies: Duncan Fraser-Anderson.
• Masons Kings: William Chaffe.  
• Ripon Farm Services: Liam Dunn, Oliver Coupland.
• Smallridge Bros: James Hancock.
• Stephen W Moore: Reuben Bingham, Dominic O’Kane.
• Tallis Amos: Michael Cock, Ellis Morris, Ben Vose, Lewis Gutteridge,
• Thomas Sherriff: Cameron Marshall, Fraser Robertson, Conall Fairbairn, Jamie Clyne, Kael Horton.
• Tuckwells: William Coleman, Sam Crichton.
• Wirtgen Group: Thomas Holt, Jack Anderson, Stan Smith. 

The talented cohort’s achievements were recognised at a graduation ceremony in Nottingham on 20th October at a dinner attended by their friends, family and mentors who have been at their side throughout the course. 

It was also an evening of celebration for 17 Master Technicians - individuals who have achieved the top-tier service technician qualification - who received their prizes at the event.   

John Deere branch training manager Allan Cochran said, “Our industry-leading apprenticeship programme has been running for more than 30 years and has trained well over 1,100 talented individuals who have gone on to have exciting careers across the John Deere dealership network.

“Graduation ceremonies are always special, and this was no exception. To be able to celebrate the fantastic achievements of those in the room was hugely rewarding for John Deere as a company, as well for the dealers who have helped nurture this talented group to reach its potential. 

“We wish the graduates all the best as they embark on the next stage of their careers within the John Deere family, and look forward to working alongside them long into the future.” 

It was an extra special night for two technicians who won overall awards. Samuel Crichton from Tuckwell’s Framfield depot in Sussex was named Technician Apprentice of the Year, while Kael Horton from Thomas Sherriff’s Hexham depot in Northumberland was presented with the Parts Apprentice of the Year award. 

Oliver Coupland from the Retford Ripon Farm Services depot in South Yorkshire, and James Hancock from Smallridge Bros’ Barnstaple depot were both named as runners-up.
 
Among the Master Technician graduates, Craig Braithwaite was singled out for his outstanding effort in becoming the first person to complete an apprenticeship and Master Technician assessment in just four years. 

The individual prizes were presented to the winners by Will Young - best known as Farmer Will on TikTok - who addressed the room on life as an influencer creating content on a farm. 

2023 Master Technician Graduates:

• Ben Burgess: Cameron Smith, Lewis Jaggard, Callum Luker, Jonathan Smith.
• Cornthwaite Group: Craig Braithwaite, James Sudell, Ed Crocker, Matthew Higgins.
• Farol: Iain MacKinnon, James O’Neill, Jamie Speir, Lawrence Thompson, Matthew Welbourne, Alistair Donaldson.
• Ripon Farm Services: Andrew Smith.
• Tuckwells: Oscar Mayhew, Oliver Rumsey.

During the evening, presenters acknowledged that many of the class of 2023 had taken on apprenticeships during one of the most challenging times in the programme’s history. 

For many, the covid lockdown took effect just six months into their studies, meaning distanced learning replaced what had been intended as classroom sessions. 

“The apprentices coped admirably with the challenge laid down to them,” Allan said. “Being able to adapt to new and changing surroundings and issues is part of being a technician, but this group of young people did themselves proud in the face of adversity.” 

It was also the first graduation for apprentices from the Wirtgen Group; a construction machinery manufacturer which was purchased by John Deere in 2017. 

Construction has commenced on the new multimillion pound headquarters for Avant Tecno UK at Suffolk Business Park in Bury St Edmunds.

The development of the 32,200sq ft facility is being led by Churchmanor Estates and built by SEH French.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held on October 19 to mark the start of works with representatives from Avant Tecno UK, SEH French, Churchmanor Estates, Robinson Arnold, Holmes Plant & Construction, LSI Architects, Conisbee, Richard Utting Associates and members of West Suffolk District Council.

Due for completion in August 2024, the company says the site will be home to their UK operations. It will boast dedicated dealer training facilities, flexible collaborative workspaces, automated warehouse technology, and a technical workshop.

The new development will see the company move from its rural base near Thetford, where it has been located since it began operating the in the UK in 1994.

Raimo Ala-Korpi, managing director of Avant Tecno UK, commented, “This ceremony marks the start of an exciting era for Avant Tecno UK.

“Avant has enjoyed a sustained period of growth in recent years and, as a consequence, we have outgrown our existing warehouse and office facilities. Our new purpose-built UK headquarters represents a significant investment and is a commitment to the future for our dealers and end user customers. 

“We're looking forward to seeing work get underway on the construction of our new premises.”

Harmonix® Turf Defense is the first and only registered turf bio-control fungicide in the UK and Ireland. This innovative solution redefines turf management practices with broad-spectrum contact fungicidal activity, proven to reduce the need for chemical products and change attitudes. It is intended to be used to control turf diseases such as: microdochium patch, anthracnose and dollar spot.

The bio-control fungicide has been developed for the control of fungal diseases on golf courses (tees, greens and fairways) and sports turf (football and rugby pitches, tennis, bowls and cricket pitches) and can be used all year round, on grass in vegetative rest or actively growing.

But how does Harmonix® Turf Defense work? 

Harmonix® Turf Defense is a bio-control fungicide that contains a patented strain of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (QST 713). This naturally produces bioactive compounds that have fungicidal activity through direct contact with plant pathogenic fungi.

Lipopeptide compounds are produced during the manufacturing process and are present in the finished product in order to have immediate activity from the moment of spraying. On contact, these lipopeptides physically disrupt the cell membranes of the pathogen, resulting in the physical breakdown of its cells.

Mode of Action - Multisite Fungicide 

• Harmonix® Turf Defense produces Lipopeptides during the fermentation process
• Lipopeptides are active biological compounds
• Three classes of Lipopeptides in Harmonix® Turf Defense are complementary in their mode of action - iturins, agrastatins and surfactins
• Bacillus amyloliquefaciens induces the natural defenses of plants by activating their defense genes
• It also acts by competition space/nutrition by creating a protective biofilm at the roots

Lipopeptides are like tiny nails that can puncture and penetrate the plasma membrane of fungi.

The lipopeptides in Harmonix® Turf Defense are made up of fatty acid tail and peptide head. The fatty acid tail is hydrophobic (meaning it repels water) and the peptide head is hydrophilic (meaning it attracts water). This unique combination allows lipopeptides to insert themselves into the fungal cell membrane by forming a tightly packed ring-like structure that can pierce through the membrane.

Once inside, the lipopeptides disrupt the normal functioning of the fungal cell membrane, causing it to leak and eventually leading to the death of the fungus.

As part of an integrated management program, Harmonix® Turf Defense can reduce the number of synthetic fungicides required, decrease the severity of disease outbreaks, and improve turf quality and overall disease prevention.

To receive further updates from Envu and information on Harmonix® Turf Defense sign up for their newsletter:  Subscribe for Envu newsletters - Envu UK & Ireland

CRISIS IN GOLF - PART II

A CRISIS IN GOLF

WHEN AUTUMN LEAVES FALL

AUTUMN TURF DISEASE PREVENTION

DISGUSTING VANDALISM

GROUNDSFEST KICKS OFF

REFLECTIONS ON CHANGES IN THE MARKETPLACE - PART II
by guest editor, Ian 'Poggy' Pogson

THE VALUE OF LOCAL COMMUNITY CLUBS

BUSY SHOW SEASON UPON US

WATCH OUT FOR AUTUMN DISEASES

REFLECTIONS ON CHANGES IN THE MARKETPLACE
by guest editor, Ian 'Poggy' Pogson

HEDGE CUTTING SEASON

AERATION IS KEY

RAIN STOPPED PLAY

EDUCATION IN SPORTS TURF

by guest editor, David Roberts

SPORTING (SURFACES) PROWESS

WATER SHORTAGES

CRICKET ON THE UP

MY TOP FIVE CONCERNS

by guest editor, Andrew Turnbull 

BIODIVERSITY IN PARKS

DROUGHT CONDITIONS PREVAIL

MAY BE BUSY

A HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT
by guest editor Angus Macleod

TURF HARVEST FESTIVAL

FEEDING TIME

TIME TO GET TOUGH

STAY CURIOUS!
by guest editor, Alex Vickers

A TRANSISTIONAL MONTH

SPRING IS UPON US

HEDGE YOUR BETS

PEOPLE'S PARKS, PUBLIC PARKS - IN PERIL?

by guest editor, Paul Rabbits

TESTING TIMES AHEAD

ROBOTIC POTENTIAL

CHANGEOVER TIME

WE MUST DEVELOP OUR OWN STAFF

by guest editor, Karl McDermott

DOUBLE CENTURY CELEBRATED

OUR PARKS IN CRISIS

AN OUTSTANDING SUCCESS

OPTIMISM RETURNING
By Guest Editor, Roy Rigby

WATERLOGGING ISSUES

NEW YEAR, NEW FEATURES

View all of 2022's blogs here

View all of 2021's blogs here

View all of 2020's blogs here

View all of 2019's blogs here

View all of 2018's blogs here

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF EVERY POUND OF BUDGET
A course manager's view

A NEWFOUND APPRECIATION FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS
Who look after grassroots pitches

SUSTAINABILITY & THE UK ACTION PLAN
For weed, pest and disease management

CONCERN FOR PARKS FOLLOWING COUNCIL BANKRUPTCIES
What does the future hold?

TAKING A GLOBAL LOOK AT SUSTAINABILITY
Is the rest of the world also driving towards sustainable practice?

RENOVATIONS, PLAY AND THANKS
On my mind this week

SUSTAINABILITY – IMPLICATIONS FOR TRAINING & EDUCATION
Set to play a crucial role going forward

TULIP TREE
Liriodendron tulipifera

LYDIA BROOM
Genista lydia

THE LAWN AND ITS VALUE
Changing attitudes

GIANT HOGWEED
Invasive and potentially harmful

LIFE-CYCLE ANALYSIS & SUSTAINABILITY
Considering every stage of the journey

NITROGEN USE EFFICIENCY
The most important nutrient

BERBERIS THUNBERGII
A shrub that has stood the test of time

ENSURING FUTURE PROSPERITY
Advice imparted at road shows

INNOVATION & SUSTAINABILITY
A key focus

PHOTINA RED ROBIN
A sensational flowering shrub

VALUING THE GRASSROOTS
We must not overlook those who maintain these grounds

MANAGING WEEDS SUSTAINABLY
In amenity spaces

DETECTING NUTRIENT DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS
In turf plants

SPRING RENOVATIONS UNDERWAY
A crucial period

SUSTAINABILITY IN SUPPLY
A focus on those who supply essential inputs to our sector

CHANGING CLIMATE
Is a borehole the key for clubs?

SUSTAINABILITY AT THE SHARP END
How to put into practice when budgets are tight?

ANOTHER NAIL IN THE COFFIN OF GRASSROOTS RUGBY
Clubs are struggling

SUSTAINABILITY IN PRACTICE
Seeking transparent and robust supply chains is essential

TIME FOR ACTION
To reverse recruitment crisis

CONTROLLING COSTS
Planning is crucial

THE SEARCH FOR SUSTAINABILITY
What exactly does the term mean?

CARING FOR THE GRASSROOTS
From volunteers to contractors

DEFRA IS LETTING DOWN THE COUNTRY
Complete failure to address the plastic grass debate

WE CAN ALL DO MORE
To aid biodiversity

MY LIFE IN GREENKEEPING
With Bruce Cruickshank

LEVELLING UP, GETTING SMARTER & GETTING AHEAD
Parks require so much more funding

SWITCHED ON FOR HARD WORK
Putting trimmers through their paces

MACHINERY HIGHLIGHTS
At this year's show

MY SALTEX
Daniel Lewis​, Manchester City Football Club

AWASH WITH LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Two months till showtime

LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD
Priorities for the amenity sector

THE DECLINE OF ‘PARKITECTURE’
A symptom of the state of parks in 2022

DEVELOPERS SHIRKING GREEN SPACE RESPONSIBILITIES
Lack of financial commitment

TIME TO COME TOGETHER
For the good of the industry

THE DEATH OF GRASS ROOTS CRICKET
Gathering apace?

ROUTES INTO THE INDUSTRY MUST BE ENSURED
Q&A with David Fisher, Lantra’s head of industry partnerships

STRONG VIEWS ON CRICKET PITCH PERFORMANCE MARKING
A bone of contention

A PREMIUM PRODUCT
Delivered at Naas Golf Club

THE GREEN REVOLUTION
And Esker Hills

MAKING A CHANGE
Laytown and Bettystown Golf Links

A DAY AT THE RACES
Naas Race Course

WORKING TOGETHER AS ONE VOICE
How the industry needs to proceed

OVER 175 YEARS OF EDUCATION
Wesley College

ELECTRIC EXCITEMENT
Dennis's Ian Howard talks electrification

THE HOME OF CORK GAA
Páirc Uí Chaoimh

LONG POLE BATTERY HEDGE TRIMMERS TESTED
STIHL HLA 66 and HLA 86

OVER 800 YEARS OF HISTORY
Johnstown Castle and Gardens

A CLUB GONE WILD
Kilkenny Golf Club

A GOLF COURSE IN THE GARDEN OF IRELAND
Woodenbridge GC

80 YEARS YOUNG
Charleville Golf Club

AN UPLIFTING EXPERIENCE
Bunclody Golf & Fishing Club

GETTING BACK TOGETHER
Albeit gradually . .

GO WEST
Inishturk GAA pitch – one of the most westerly sportspitches in Europe

WORKING ON A TIGHT BUDGET
Nenagh Golf Club

ON A MISSION
Wrekin Golf Club aiming to enrich wildlife and fauna

WILD AND WONDERFUL
Design By Nature

LEARNING HOW TO SURVIVE
Abbey Par 3

TACKLING OBESITY
Vital that schools can provide sport

A LIFETIME OF LEARNING
Vital for turf professionals

CELEBRATING 125 YEARS
Tullamore Golf Club

UNIVERSITY CHALLENGES
At Trinity College Dublin

BLENDING THE OLD WITH THE NEW
Bray Golf Club

A WELL POLISHED COURSE!
Ierne Social And Sports Club

IDENTIFYING THE TRUE VALUES
Of grounds maintenance

THE INDUSTRY WILL CHANGE & ADAPT
But it will survive

WIRRAL GOLF COURSES SAVED
Renewed hope and optimism for the future

GREEN SPACE CONTRIBUTION TO WELLBEING IS UNDERVALUED
Parks invisible on national agenda

A SHINING LIGHT IN IRELAND'S SUNNY SOUTHEAST
Wexford Golf Club

GREEN SPACES DO NOT LOOK AFTER THEMSELVES!
Keith Kent says we must invest in people

WE SHOULD TELL THE WORLD ABOUT THE UK INDUSTRY
Right time for all sides to come together

SOIL LIFE IS PRECIOUS
Good-quality soil can help save the planet

MORE THAN JUST CUTTING GRASS
Encouraging the next generation

A BUZZ FROM DOING THE JOB
Wide experience of the turf grass industry

PAYING THEIR WAY
Low wages is the bane of the industry

AMENITY MANAGEMENT IMPACTS US ALL
Professor John Moverley

CARING FOR PARKS OF ALL TYPES
Mary Worrall

TOP FIVE FRUSTRATIONS FOR CRICKET GROUNDSMEN
What causes you the most frustration in your role?

PROFESSIONALS AT THE CUTTING EDGE
Vic Demain and Phil Sharples

BOWLS CLUBS IN PERIL
A sad decline

A VERY SPECIAL INDUSTRY
Loz looks back

SNEAK PEAK AT A ROBOTIC "GAME CHANGER"
Commercial model capable of covering 50,000 m2 teased

HALESOWEN PICK A BIG ROBOT UP FRONT
Invest in mowers

COMPRESSED AERATION
The new way

PARKS MATTER MORE THAN EVER
Recent sector developments

ON TEST
STIHL blowers

THREE CORE VALUES TO SHAPE OUR INDUSTRY
Real concerns for the future

ENGLAND'S GREEN SPACE GAP
A split along racial lines

ON TEST
EGO STX3800 strimmer with RTX2300 Rotocut head

A SECTOR FACING IMPORTANT TIMES
Review of the National Action Plan

PARKS MATTER
The role of public parks in the recovery: a discussion paper

A UNIQUE SPORTING VENUE
Wormsley private estate

A BTME OUTDOORS?
A good bet for the industry

PARKS NEED APPROPRIATE POLITICAL REPRESENTATION
Q&A with Philippa Reece, Parks and Foreshore Manager at Adur and Worthing Council

CRICKET LOAM
What does it mean?

A HERCULEAN EFFORT TO GET PARKS BACK TO NORMAL
Q&A with Chris Worman, Rugby Borough Council’s parks and ground manager

ON TEST
STIHL battery products

TURFGRASS STRESS MANAGEMENT
Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and antioxidants during biotic and abiotic stress in turfgrass plants

AUTUMN DISEASE MANAGEMENT
The coming months are going to prove very difficult

THE ABUSE OF PARKS . .
Is the abuse of society

WHY PARKS MATTER?
A statement from the Parks Management Forum to the Prime Minister

THE 21st CENTURY PARKS MANAGER
Innovative, creative and entrepreneurial

EAT, SLEEP, CUT, REPEAT!
Cricket under covid

TIME FOR A SINGLE SHOW?
Debate brought back into focus

A CHALLENGING TWO MONTHS
Running golf design projects from home

PRESSURE SITUATION
Cementing the reputation

A CLUB TO BE PROUD OF
10 years at the helm of Olton GC

GAME CHANGERS IN TURFCARE
The day the Lord's outfield reconstruction proved its worth

THE ESSENCE OF ESSENTIAL
Finding a sensible way forward on defining "essential maintenance"

THAT WAS THE YEAR THAT WAS
2001

HOW TO LOOK AFTER A GOLF COURSE WITH NO GOLFERS
Fundamental to the survival of almost all courses, if not of the game itself

RAIN STOPPED PLAY WOULD BE WELCOME
. . along with ‘lunch is being taken early’

PHYSICAL CONTROL OF TURFGRASS PESTS
An urgent problem

A DIVERSE & ENTERTAINING WEEK
Successful BTME 2020

INTEGRATED PEST CONTROL
Opportunity to embrace new methods

ENVILLE ON THE UP
Major investments taking place

GREEN FLAG AWARDS 2019
A great success

U.S PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT SHOW EXCELS
Buoyant GIE+EXPO

LEGACY OF THE SOLHEIM CUP
At Gleneagles

A DAY OUT WITH THE LADIES
Behind the scenes at the Solheim Cup

COVENTRY UNIVERSITY'S EDIBLE GARDEN SUCCESS
2006 - present

HAIL THE GRASS MASTERS!
Boorish media comments about pitch quality are wide of the mark

CONTRACTOR SEES MULTI-DISCIPLINE SUCCESS
360 Ground Care serving professional facilities

BUSY TIMES
Judging the Green Flag Awards

TAKING AN INTEGRATED APPROACH
What does it all mean in managing turf surfaces?

UNDER PRESSURE
Dry weather conditions continue to keep turf managers focused on moisture management

EDDIE SEAWARD
Death of Wimbledon’s influential grounds manager

MAJOR NEW IRRIGATION PROJECT
At Top 100 classic Berkhamsted Golf Club

NEW HORIZONS FOR THE HATTERS
Investment paying off at Kenilworth Road

ELIZABETHAN RESTORATION
At Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens

WHAT IS BIOPHILIA?
The vital impact of parks and green spaces on health and well-being

WORM CONTROL
Without carbendazim

THE TRUE COST OF PETROL
Battery-powered outdoor power tools are now turning the heads of professionals

SANDS OF TIME
Sand-based pitches are now the norm in professional sports

WHY DO WE DO THE RIGHT THING?
We must maintain industry standards

CHASING GRASS PERFECTION?
11 things you need to know . . .

MAINTAINING STANDARDS
Q&A with BASIS ceo, Stephen Jacobs

STRI RESEARCH DAY 2018
Hosted at research trial grounds in Bingley

THE MECHANIC
Leicester City FC invest in new role

LORD'S 'GRASS-GUVNOR' TO RETIRE
Mick Hunt bows out after 49 years

HOLLOW CORING & DEEP SCARIFICATION
Is it really necessary?

In the first of this series of articles, we sought to get a clearer definition of what sustainability is and what it means to an organisation, especially in the amenity horticulture sector. Sustainability comprises three pillars or components namely economic viability, environmental protection and social equity. The definition of these is important when any organisation seeks to become more sustainable, or indeed seeks to deliver more sustainable products and services to its customers. The remaining articles on this subject have sought to look more closely at various sub sectors of, and activities in amenity, and those providing services to them, which hopefully will help all readers in their own search for sustainability

Previously we considered Sustainability In Practice, Sustainability At The Sharp End, Sustainability In Supply, Managing Weeds Sustainably, Innovation & Sustainability, Life Cycle Analysis and Sustainability, Implications for Training & Education, Taking A Global Look At Sustainability and Sustainability and the UK Action Plan.

This month as the series draws to a close I seek to summarise some discussions with influential people in the sports and amenity sector on what sustainable practice means to them and to their organisations.

Production of this series of articles has involved very interesting discussions with people from across the sector. This penultimate article in the series highlights key points from just a few of these conversations, providing a view point from three important sub sectors. However the points raised have relevance to all sub sectors and certainly link to content covered in throughout this series of articles.
 
Professional Lawn Care

The first set of discussions is drawn from the professional lawn care sector. There are some 15 million lawns in Great Britain and the public spend is at least £54 million on lawn fertilisers alone in a year. Professional lawn care activity is substantial and continues to grow. They provide fertiliser and weed care as core activity but with other add on services. The last survey of professional lawn care organisations, carried out by the Amenity Forum in 2020, estimated some 10000 hectares of professionally managed lawns.

So how is this sector seeking to adapt to the sustainability and net zero agendas? Here are some steps being taken by the organisations spoken to:

• Moving to the use of electric vehicles: Staff engaged in professional lawn care need to travel from house to house and so a vehicle is essential. Electric power makes sense although there are difficulties, including charging capacity and domestic access to charging, and, where larger vehicles are needed for bigger lawns, the extra weight can be an issue. However technology continues to develop and the trend to electric, and indeed hydrogen in future, will continue, linked to government targets.
• Adding services to the offer to customers; of course partly driven by profitability motives but also sustainability. Such services include water conservers and soil improvers as well as advice to customers on sustainable issues. .
• Other sustainable action includes re-cycling and seeking to move away from plastic and using slow release fertilisers and organic products where possible, as developments in the fertiliser industry continue.
• Using tracking software produces reports for drivers seeking to create safer approaches and more sustainable practice
• The launch of a new authorised pesticide to combat the damage caused through leatherjackets and chafers is welcomed and will be used but it will be linked with advice to customers on cultural ways of reducing incidence of the pests, such as less thatch. The use of nematodes is complex given the small scale of most lawns.
• Commitment to best practice with all those talked to being members of the UK Amenity Standard. 

Sport

The second set of comments comes from sport which is very important to the lives of the UK public. The discussion here was with a head groundsman from football but the principles can be applied to other areas. A key focus for the discussion was how can football, through the management of its pitches and stadium, contribute to the sustainable agenda and help meet targets to reduce carbon emissions. The following key points emerged.

• Seeking to, as much as possible, recycle waste products and divert waste disposal away from landfill
• Reducing single use plastics
• Continuing to investigate alternative forms of transport and power equipment, seeking to reduce environmental impact
• Examining opportunities to improve biodiversity, including potential for the creation of  a living wall and roof garden within the facilities
• Water harvesting from rooves and re-cycling water
• Change to LED bulbs for grow lights which are essential to promote grass growth in shaded stadium areas. 

Golf

This second discussion was supplemented with one from golf and looking, in particular, at what taking an integrated approach meant to them in terms of weed, pest and disease management. Some key points were:

• If starting to build, a free draining root-zone is the beginning for all golf and winter sports turf surfaces. Grass species and cultivars can be chosen and the maintenance programme planned to encourage their growth without pest, weed or disease. Organic matter control is probably the number one cultural control that helps all elements of golf green and sports pitch management.
• As water is required for grass growth, but also for germination and infection by many of the important turf grass pathogens, water management is of great importance. Two maintenance practices are considered; applying irrigation when grass plants require water and keeping the grass surface as dry as possible.
• The period of leaf wetness is also key. Leaf surfaces remaining wet all night encourage pathogens to germinate and potentially infect the grass plants. Dew is also removed by switching, brushing or using dew removal products to reduce the time that the surface stays wet.
• Establishing or over sowing with desirable grass species especially in combination with organic matter control, helps to ensure ‘fine’ turf surfaces optimal for smooth and true golf greens.
• Consideration of the release pattern of fertilisers can help to prevent peaks and troughs in fertility. Slow release and controlled release fertilisers can ‘drip feed’ the grass, creating more even growth patterns with less stress to the plants, and so reducing susceptibility to low fertility diseases.  
• Using iron sulphate, especially over the autumn and winter period, has helped to reduce diseases such as microdochium patch. This also helps darken the green colour of the grass and put any moss that has crept in at a disadvantage.  

The key message emerging from this particular discussion is to plan in an integrated manner and, in doing so, deliver on the agenda of sustainable practice.

Research

The third of the discussions was with a turf research organisation. Some key points were:

• Over recent years the focus is sustainability, based upon the premise of doing better with less or seeking to achieve similar results but in a more sustainable manner. This can translate itself in many ways. One example is seeking to achieve desired outcomes with less inputs by use of bio stimulants, improved plant health and achieving greater nutrient efficiency.
• In essence, when it comes to managing amenity and turf spaces sustainably, it involves taking a more holistic integrated approach, based upon informed and positive husbandry, and making use of all the tools available, so outcomes are not compromised but more sustainably achieved.
• Important research is on-going investigating the genetics of plants, implementing techniques such as genome editing, reducing susceptibility to disease or to enhance healthy growth, and, as mentioned, utilising bio-stimulants.  These seek to influence internal processes allowing the plant to do better and become more attuned to combat pathogens and extreme growing conditions. This work seeks to re-think traditional practices and identify new approaches.
• A key factor in this is adapting to climate change and seeking to enable plants to deal with the increased stress caused to them. One important area is water with, in our modern climate, increasing times of drought and abundance. Research and trials work involves exploring further techniques in the use of surfactants, water storage and sub surface irrigation.
• In turf, the initiative launched by the Royal and Ancient a few years ago, is proving a very important driver, not just in stimulating and resourcing research and trials, but, perhaps most significantly, creating a pro-active discussion by all involved. For example, those directly engaged in turf management are at the sharp end and very much in a push pull situation. They recognise the need for more sustainable practices yet continue to have demand from users for high quality surfaces fit for purpose. Everyone wants to be more sustainable; it is just how it best can be achieved. Research is being geared to help us with this.
• Policy changes also drive innovation. New regulations concerning fertilising products are driving significant changes in supply to the sector.  The new regulations are more far reaching than previous, aiming to increase the number of products available, especially from sustainable sources or utilising organic alternatives. All products must comply with regulations aiming to protect the environment and, in particular, maintaining soil quality.
• This has prompted much investment in the supply sector, both in re-assessing current products and in diversification. It has stimulated significant growth in controlled slow release coated fertilisers with their increased biodegradability. The aim is to enable amenity and turf professionals to improve nutrient use efficiency, a further step in providing improved sustainable practice. Equally important is the search to create a more green approach to processes involved in fertiliser manufacture and supply.

An opportunity

Emerging from these discussions that I have highlighted here and others, indicate a real willingness by the amenity sector to engage in sustainable practice. It is seen as less of a challenge but more an opportunity. The key is determining how best not just to implement sustainable practice but also demonstrating this. In reality much is already being done and it is important that we say this loud and proud. Too often the amenity sector can be criticised, yet so much is being done. Everybody involved needs to say that.

‘’You have to think a little smarter, be proactive not reactive’’ - Frank Abagnale

The final article in this series will seek to bring together key points made over the series and in particular establish some key guidelines for implementing sustainable practice.