TURF WARS: natural v artificial grass - The Landscaper Magazine
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THE
MAY/JUNE 2021 WWW.LANDSCAPERMAGAZINE.COM AVAILABLE ON SUBSCRIPTION
THE UK’S
NUMBER 1
LANDSCAPING
INDUSTRY
MAGAZINE
TURF WARS:
natural v artificial grass
Managing Fusarium patch disease in turf
Invasive weed control
Irrigation
PLUS
the latest news in groundscare,
power tools and forthcoming events
www.inturf.com
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@landscaper_ed /TheLandscaperMagazine
It is a topic hotly debated up with other non industry terms - the organisation will
and down the land - artificial continue to “educate and inspire”, and to provide a
v natural turf. For some time platform of support for its members.
now “plastic” surfaces have And in other news is the ongoing opening up of the
been common place in the country as we emerge from lockdown. Zoomed out
sporting world, but now in
Call us on:
suppliers, dealers, manufacturers and yes even the press
private gardens too there is a trend 020
are looking forward to once again visiting the garden
towards laying a “carpet “of lawn 8641
and trade shows across the country. The RHS are busy
rather than seeding or laying natural swathes of grass. preparing for their first summer shows at Tatton Park
But as Greg Rhodes reports in this issue (page 20) there 7979
and Hampton Court and across the Channel, Paysalia
are pros and cons for both. Hybrid pitches for example 2021, is preparing to welcome visitors from afar this
offerQUALITY
opportunities for
USEDmore playing time for sports
GROUNDCARE November. So, lots
MACHINERY to look forward too.
DEALERS
than natural turf, but lawn care specialists argue the If there are any other industry events, show or
case for eco-friendly surfaces that offer natural habitats demonstrations - large or small - that you’d like to
for wildlife to thrive. However, whatever the surface of make our readers aware of then please get in touch and
choice, both need maintenance - especially from weeds. we will pass on the news.
So this month too, on page 32, Jana Silver takes note from
some industry experts and end users to discover ways to
tackle these invasive plants.
Elsewhere we catch up on the latest industry news, Maggie Walsh, Editor
such as the re-branding of the British Association maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk
of Landscape Industries - the organisation which
supports members within the world of landscaping. Next issue copy deadline: 21 June 2021. To advertise please
Dropping their acronym ‘BALI’ - often confused email us at landscaper@sheengate.co.uk
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The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 5
@landscaper_ed /TheLandscaperMagazine
CONTENTS
Editor
Maggie Walsh | 07787 555 798 | maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk
News........................................................................ 09
Contributors
Paula Warman | Greg Rhodes | Jana Silver Appointments......................................................... 16
Media sales executive
Jana Silver | 0208 939 5600 | landscaper@sheengate.co.uk Events....................................................................... 18
Design and production
Lucas-studio.co.uk Artificial v Natural Grass....................................... 20
Circulation and subscriptions
Landscaper's Circle............................................... 27
Maggie Walsh | maggie.walsh@sheengate.co.uk
The Landscaper is owned and published by Sheengate Publishing Ltd.
The Landscaper is an entirely independent magazine. It is not a member
of any trade association or society. Mowers.................................................................... 29
Sheengate Publishing Ltd
Unit A4, Kingsway Business Park Weed Control......................................................... 32
Oldfield Road, Hampton TW12 2HD
0208 939 5600
Groundscare and Turf........................................... 35
www.sheengate.co.uk
www.landscapermagazine.com
Irrigation................................................................. 42
Managing director
Alex Whitney
Publisher
Power Tools............................................................ 46
Con Crowley
Hardscaping........................................................... 48
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 Cover Story: Inturf is a leader in the production of
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 top quality turf, supplying materials and advice to the
in the magazine. Copyright © 2021 industry. See page 25.
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The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 7
THE AWARDS ARE
OPEN FOR ENTRIES!
Visit baliawards.co.uk to view the categories
and entry criteria and submit online today.
Contractor/Designer/Group For general enquiries, contact Emily Feeney
Early Bird Discount Deadline: 5th May 2021 via telephone at +44(0)24 7518 5613 or via
Final Deadline: 2nd June 2021 email at emily.feeney@bali.org.uk
Affiliate/Employer Excellence/International For sponsorship opportunities,
Early Bird Discount Deadline: 2nd June 2021 contact Diane McCulloch via telephone
Final Deadline: 7th July 2021 at +44(0)24 7669 0333 or via email at
diane.mcculloch@bali.org.uk
Awards ceremony: Friday 3rd December 2021
JW Marriott Grosvenor House,
Park Lane, London
Headline Sponsor Sponsors
Green-tree
Topsoil
NEWS
New brand for British Association
of Landscape Industries
The British Association of Landscape Industries has
unveiled a new look ahead of its 50th year in business
in 2022, marking the start of a new chapter in the Trade
Association’s prestigious history.
Spearheading the brand is the Association’s fresh,
contemporary new identity, boldly updated for 2021 while
celebrating its heritage.
Following a three-year development cycle which saw
the team at Landscape House carry out research and
analysis, a series of stakeholder interviews and a brand
positioning exercise, several significant changes were
decided upon to improve the Association’s continued Team outside Landscape House
efforts to promote, support and inspire its members, the
wider landscape services industry and the public. focus on high quality content to inform, educate and
From 1st April 2021, Association members who have inspire. It will use its position as a thought-leader in British
passed its stringent vetting procedures will be referred to as landscaping to draw attention to issues affecting the
Accredited members, replacing the previous ‘Registered’ industry and lobby government, as well as developing its
name. The team at Landscape House, supported by its technical support offering. The rebrand will also bring a
board of directors, felt the replacement term was a more new approach to the Association’s identity, dropping the
suitable choice for explaining the process companies acronym ‘BALI’. Often confused with non-industry terms,
went through in order to attain accreditation. Affiliate, the the Association’s new identity advertises a greater public-
label used to promote members offering trade and public- friendly position, simplified so it only displays the full
facing products and services has been dropped in favour company name that better describes the service offer.
of Supplier, a word that better describes that category of Says Chief Executive Wayne Grills: “This is an
membership. So, in simple terms, a Registered Affiliate will important moment for our Association and its members.
now be known as an Accredited Supplier. We recognised, through talking with key stakeholders,
The brand refresh has also brought with it changes that we needed to make changes to our brand to
to the way the Association communicates, including a continue to build on our strong foundation and provide
the high level of customer service our members expect.
Next year our Trade Association celebrates 50 years
and we wanted to be in the best shape possible to take
full advantage of what that special milestone will bring.
Expect further announcements of what we have planned
later this year.”
Members can login to their member’s area bali.org.
uk/login to download the new Accredited logo and brand
guidelines (if their membership category permits), order
vehicle stickers, download Use the Professionals leaflets
and access their membership benefits portfolio which
Re-brand for British Association of Landscape Industries have also been updated.
STOP PRESS: National Landscape Awards are open for entries! Accredited members of British Association of
Landscape Industries can now enter the 2021 National Landscape Awards, the largest of their kind anywhere in
Europe, and with the announcement of entries opening there are also a number of exciting opportunities for 2021.
Entry Deadlines
Accredited contractor/ Accredited supplier/employer Accredited International
designer/group excellence Early Bird Discount Deadline:
Early Bird Discount Deadline: Early Bird Discount Deadline: 2nd June 2021
5th May 2021 2nd June 2021 Final Deadline: 7th July 2021
Final Deadline: 2nd June 2021 Final Deadline: 7th July 2021
For further information please visit baliawards.co.uk or contact Events Project Manager, Emily Feeney via email at
emily.feeney@bali.org.uk or call 07936 944258.
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 9
NEWS
BIGGA Partners new signing
The British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association we appreciate and encourage across our own team. The
(BIGGA) has welcomed specialist fertiliser manufacturer desire to expand upon our own knowledge and innovate
Indigrow as the association’s latest Partner. with new products and new methods of working is key
BIGGA Partners offer the highest level of support if we are to overcome the challenges of the coming
available to members of BIGGA, with the funding the decade and I’m delighted that BIGGA and Indigrow will
association receives helping to underpin the Continuing be working closer together to support the needs of the
Professional Development programme and all UK’s greenkeeping community.”
educational activity. And BIGGA Business Development Manager Lauren
Indigrow is a specialist manufacturer of fertilisers Frazer adds: “Indigrow is a company that BIGGA has
and nutrients for the sportsturf market with more enjoyed a close relationship with over many years
than 75 years’ experience of operating around the as the team was previously an education supporter.
world. Covering five continents and over 40 countries, Their continuous product development helps create
Indigrow employs more than 35 staff with qualifications innovative, efficient and cost-effective products to suite
covering all the aspects of agronomy required to the demands of the modern greenkeeper and so I am
promote healthy growth. delighted the Indigrow team has made the decision to
Bradley Foster, marekting manager at Indigrow, step up to Partner status. We are hugely proud of our
says: “Indigrow has long been a firm supporter of the relationships with all our Partners and we’re grateful for
activities of BIGGA and its members as the principles the incredible support they provide our membership, so
of highly-educated and qualified professionals are ones I’m thrilled to welcome Indigrow to the line-up.”
The Indigrow team pictured at BTME 2020
10 www.landscapermagazine.comNEWS
Green-tech is a
BALI Chalk Fund Gold Champion
L to R | Richard Gill, Kate Farrer, Jamie Peacock, Emily Watson, Jago Kay and Roger McGivern from Green-tech
Green-tech is showing its support for the industry The Champions scheme provides an opportunity
by becoming an ultimate supporter for training and to invest in the education, training, motivating,
development in the landscape sector. and equipping of the next generation of landscape
The BALI Chalk Fund, the British Association of professionals through a tiered support system. The
Landscape Industries’ own charity, has recently Bronze is an affordable £250 per year and will ensure
launched an exciting new initiative called Chalk Fund five students will leave college with a LISS/CSCS
Champions; to help combat the industry skills gap. SmartCard and are ready to go on-site, this is a
Leading supplier to the landscaping industry, saving to future employers of around £600.
Green-tech is one of the first businesses to show To become a Silver Champion costs £500 per year
their dedication and commitment to helping the future and is equal to the prize money awarded annually to
needs of the industry. They have opted to support the BALI Chalk Fund National Landscape Student of
with the top-level Gold Champion. the Year.
Richard Gill Sales Director Green-tech comments, Gold Champion is the choice for Green-tech; it is
“This is an incredibly forward-thinking approach by the highest tier and costs £750 per annum. It will help
the BALI Chalk Fund and provides a great opportunity save future employers thousands of pounds.
for industry to put back and contribute towards All funds raised will help invest time, money,
improving our future workforce. At Green-tech we are knowledge and skills with the hope it will save
staunch advocators of encouraging and nurturing the thousands of pounds a year for many landscaping
talents of the future generation, so this is a scheme businesses who struggle with recruitment and retention.
we are proud and eager to get behind.” Green-tech is well known for its industry support.
Chalk Fund Trustee Richard Gardiner adds “Green- They currently support the Perennial, Gardeners'
tech have always been so supportive of our work and Royal Benevolent Society, the ProLandscaper 30
it was therefore no surprise that they have decided under 30 next generation initiative and a whole host
to become one of the first Gold - BALI Chalk Fund of awards including being the headline sponsor of the
Champions. We are delighted Green-tech see the BALI National Landscape Awards.
same potential that we see in developing the future of If you are interested in becoming a Champion,
our industry and making them more work-ready when alongside Green-tech then visit
leaving education.” www.balichalkfund.org.uk/become-a-champion
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 11NEWS
Green-tech named in Top 100
Dan Burton and Kate Hulmes of Green-tech
Landscape supplier Green-tech has been announced administrative processes.
as a Top 100 digital tech adopter within the Leeds City The investment has already returned an improved
region, in the 2021 Digital Enterprise Top 100. service to customers. As well as providing instant,
The Top 100 seeks out and recognises one hundred accurate and quantifiable information on deliveries,
of the most digitally transformational, resilient, and it also provides delivery options from 24hr, 48hr and
innovative businesses in the area. environmentally friendly deliveries.
Launched in October 2016, Digital Enterprise helps Dan Burton, Green-tech’s Online Manager
small and medium sized enterprises (SME) across comments: “It was a huge surprise to hear that we
the region to improve their performance by investing had made it into the 2021 Digital Enterprise TOP 100.
in appropriate digital technologies and expertise. This We have been investing heavily in technology across
highly successful programme has provided funding, the business over the last 5 years; from our web
networking and training to more than 2,000 businesses presence to our warehouse and distribution systems.
since its inception. It has very much been a key business objective and
The programme is partly funded by the European it is really paying off. We have seen our turnover hit
Union (European Regional Development Fund £20million for the first time in our trading history and
2014-20), the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise this is due in part to the technological advances we
Partnership (LEP) and nine of the local authorities that have made.”
make up the Leeds City Region. Kate Humes, Marketing Director adds, “Recently
Green-tech applied and was awarded a £10,000 we have recognised that times are changing, our
grant from Digital Enterprise, which they used to help customers are busier than ever, and they require
implement SmartFreight; a system which enabled access to information at their fingertips and at all times
Green-tech to provide a shipping solution that offers of the day. As a business we really are taking leaps
transparency, accountability, and efficiency. Integrating into digitally transforming the business by supporting
with SmartFreight has provided their customers with our sales team function with online data that can be
a choice of courier options and gives full visibility - accessed by all customers. We are very much moving
updates on dispatch, transit and arrivals. Customers from old school to leading edge within our industry. It
simply log into an online portal to view details and really is a case of coming of age and it is fantastic to
updates of deliveries. The SmartFreight system be identified as one of the Digital Enterprise’s Top 100
has significantly streamlined Green-tech’s internal Tech Adopters.’’
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Grounds care group acquires
garden maintenance business
Green & Tidy Landscapes Ltd.
Surrey based Grounds Care Group has completed “Both companies and our employees share similar
the acquisition of Green & Tidy Landscapes Ltd. values and a devotion to providing high quality grounds
The deal reinforces the firm’s position as a market maintenance services and a commitment to customer
leading provider of grounds care and landscaping satisfaction, striving for a long-term relationship with
services, strengthening its offering in the Thames our customers. We pride ourselves on our talented
Valley region. workforce, so we are delighted to welcome the new
As well as Green & Tidy’s client base, Grounds Care Green & Tidy team to our Group. As a family business
Group will also take on all staff members, equipment we are proud of the growth and success we have
and facilities, including the Green & Tidy depot in achieved and look forward to continuing our journey of
Moulsford, Oxfordshire. The additional infrastructure expansion with plans for both organic and acquisition-
will enable Grounds Care Group to expand its based growth.”
geographical reach and expertise in a range of grounds Green & Tidy Landscapes Ltd MD, Paul Gittus,
care solutions and services, including gritting, grounds said: “I am delighted that Green & Tidy has joined the
maintenance, invasive weed removal, tree works and Grounds Care Group family. Their professionalism
soft landscaping. and innovative approach to landscape maintenance,
Green & Tidy will continue to trade under its own name gives them the leading edge with their advanced
across Oxford, Milton Keynes and the wider Thames communication systems, which I believe will bring great
Valley region, under their well-established brand, which benefits to our customers.”
has built up a reputation for providing quality grounds With headquarters in Cobham, Surrey, Grounds
and tree care since 1987. It will move under the Grounds Care Group now services over 1,000 sites across the
Care Group brand from November 2021. South of England. It’s impressive and rapidly growing
The acquisition is part of a growth strategy by client base includes some of the UK’s leading facilities
Grounds Care Group, which has bold ambitions to management, construction, rail, retail and property
further grow its services across the South of England, companies, as well as a broad range of public sector
as Grounds Care Group CEO Adam Brindle explains: organisations.
“The acquisition of Green & Tidy is a fantastic Grounds Care Group would like to take this
opportunity and a significant milestone in our strategy opportunity to thank CMC Business Advisors in
to create a Group offering clients the very best assisting with this acquisition.
landscape maintenance, invasive weed removal and For further information on Grounds Care Group,
winter gritting services. please visit www.gcgrp.co.uk
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 15APPOINTMENTS
Moving places
The Landscaper Magazine congratulates the following in their
new roles across the landscaping and turf care industries
Karl Savill Marshalls Plc and is well renowned and recognised as a
PSD Groundscare, the exclusive UK distributor for leading expert within the industry.
AS Motor, Eliet, Koppl and TS Industries professional Gary Vaughton, has been appointed as Chief Finance
groundscare machinery, are pleased to announce officer. He is a chartered accountant and brings more
the recent appointment of Karl Savill as Business 15 years of experience within the building sector, having
Development Manager covering the South East and previously held roles at Masonite International.
East Midlands. Says CEO of Talasey Group, Mark Wall: “These are
The appointment supports recent growth and ensures two very exciting appointments for the business that I am
that customer’s expectations continue to be exceeded. sure will help us to realise our five-year growth strategy
Karl says of his new role, “I am delighted to have been for Talasey Group”.
appointed as the South East & East Midlands Business
Development Manager for PSD Groundscare and to be
working with a range of high quality brands. My passion
has always been groundscare machinery, and I’m really
excited and looking forward to working with dealers and
getting out and meeting customers and demonstrating
the fantastic capabilities and benefits of our machinery”.
Geoff Moulton
Karl Savill
Geoff Moulton & Gary Vaughton
The independent suppliers of landscaping
solutions, Talasey Group, announce two important
appointments to the senior management team, to
underpin planned expansion.
Geoff Moulton joins the company as Business
Development Director. Hw has spent 22 years at Gary Vaughton
16 www.landscapermagazine.comAPPOINTMENTS
Stuart Yarwood MG Amenity Sales & Marketing Manager Derek Smith
Stuart Yarwood MG joins DLF Seeds as Regional adds, “We are very excited to have someone with
Technical Sales Manager. His role will see him working Stuart’s level of knowledge, experience and passion
closely with both customers and distributors across the joining the technical team. Stuart spent the first few
North West of the UK, providing advice and support on weeks in his role working closely with (recently retired)
the Masterline and Johnsons Sports Seed ranges. John Hughes to get a thorough understanding of both
Stuart’s years of practical experience has seen the product range and the specific needs of accounts in
him as a golf course manager, achieving his Master his territory.”
Greenkeeper certificate in 2010. He is also one of only
seven people in the world to have gained the R&A
Gold Scholar Award for his role in the facilitation of the
R&A Scholars programme, a body that engages in and
supports activities undertaken for the benefit of the sport
of golf. His technical know-how then went on to set him
up for a role in sales, where he provided agronomic
support to customers across all sporting disciplines,
before further developing this with some time spent in
sports turf contracting and consulting.
Working with DLF since February 2021 Stuart says:
“Joining DLF was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.
My late father always said, ‘If I was to be a car mechanic,
be a car mechanic for Rolls Royce’. DLF are the Rolls
Royce of the seed world, providing the very best range
for natural playing surfaces. I am very passionate about
sharing my knowledge and am looking forward to being
able to do that in my new role, helping others to deliver
the best surfaces possible.” Stuart Yarwood
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FP0056 The Landscaper May CS UA60.indd 1 14/04/2021 15:50
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 17EVENTS
Open for business
Trade shows, networking and gardening events are now gearing up
for a busy year ahead through to 2022 as we emerge from lockdown.
Here are some events to look forward to...
Summer celebration of gardening Court Palace and Tatton Park this summer, we hope to
and growing bring inspiration and advice for all gardeners and plant
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) confirms the lovers as well as a much-needed celebration of summer.
return of its popular summer flower shows in July. RHS “We are so grateful for all the support we’ve received
Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival supported by from our members, visitors and exhibitors as we work
Viking (5-11 July) and RHS Flower Show Tatton Park together to create two unforgettable summer shows.
(21-25 July) will be two of the first major outdoor events Bringing the horticultural world together again will be
to make a safe return this summer. significant for the industry and we are continuing to
Following the postponement of the 2021 RHS Chelsea plan for different scenarios to ensure we can open our
Flower Show until September, and the huge increase in gates safely and implement social distancing measures
the number of people growing in 2020, the two summer if still necessary. We are lucky that both Hampton Court
shows will make a welcome return with a celebration Palace and Tatton Park are large outdoor spaces that
of gardening and growing packed with inspiration and can be enjoyed safely by visitors and we can’t wait to
advice for everyone growing plants, flowers and food for welcome everyone back this summer.”
their health, wellbeing and the environment. The RHS will also be running a Virtual RHS Chelsea
Show gardens shining a light on key issues and Flower Show online throughout the original show week,
environmental challenges we face today will be amongst 17 – 23 May.
the highlights at RHS Hampton Court alongside a brand Above: Floral designer Jonathan Moseley makes final
new RHS Flower Market. Meanwhile RHS Tatton Park preparations at the RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 2019.
will see the return of the popular Young Designer of Credit © RHS / Charlotte Graham.
the Year Competition with exciting designs from five
upcoming designers and an RHS Feature Garden European show to meet new challenges
celebrating the power of plants. Landscaping show, Paysalia 2021, which takes place
Helena Pettit, RHS Director of Gardens and Shows, at the Lyon Eurexpo, France is on track to open its
says: “After months of planning and uncertainty we can’t doors from Tuesday, November 30th to Thursday,
wait to return to what we do best, putting on our famous December 2nd next. This European trade fair brings
RHS Flower Shows for all to enjoy. We have seen a huge together everyone active in the sector from landscaping,
increase in people taking up gardening and growing in gardening and sports.
the last year and so in being able to return to Hampton The show hopes to exceed the visitor numbers
18 www.landscapermagazine.comEVENTS
generation of grounds enthusiasts to help avoid a major
skills gap. The integrated digital and media campaign
reached over 135 million people, secured support from
1,193 organisations and individuals, and generated over
3,000 mentions of #GroundsWeek on social media.
Following the huge successes of the inaugural
celebration week, GMA has confirmed that
GroundsWeek will continue to celebrate and highlight the
vital role professional grounds staff and volunteers play
in making sport possible each year.
The research conducted by the GMA for
#GroundsWeek 2021 showed the severe skills gap the
sector was facing. Encouraging people to join the sector
is vital, and while 32% of kids want to work in sport,
the research found that only 5% understand vital but
overlooked roles like grounds management.
This year’s focus was therefore about inspiring
young people to enter the industry as a professional
Visitors to Paysalia in 2019. and encouraging sports fans everywhere to look at
volunteering at their local grounds. Next year, the
(30,000) it had in 2019 when 741 exhibitors attended. GMA will aim to build on this, highlighting the amazing
Co-produced with Unep, Union Nationale des community within grounds management and encouraging
Entreprises du Paysage, (The French National people from all walks of life to join the sector.
Landscaping Businesses Trade Association) Paysalia Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, says: “It’s safe to say
exists to help everyone in the landscaping sector meet that #GroundsWeek has been a huge success. We had
new challenges and changes: teams, organisations, individuals, and sponsors coming
Themes for 2021 show include: together to cheer on grounds people everywhere. All
Biodiversity: Exhibits at Paysalia 2021 proposes the hard work that goes into sport behind the scenes
solutions that work – from chemical-free maintenance, was highlighted across the nation, and it was amazing
alternative green space management and greening of to see so many get involved. We’re particularly grateful
urban centres. to our various sponsors who got involved this year in
New markets: The French Revival program, launched supporting our activity and we hope we can continue
in 2020, boosts some landscaping markets such working with such fantastic businesses in 2022.
as forestation and ecological engineering. Urban “By building on the success of our first
landscaping and greening of cities is growing and it #GroundsWeek, we want to make next year’s celebratory
is a trend that provides opportunities for the sector. week even bigger and better than before.”
Paysalia 2021 intends to address these trends and help To get involved visit:
professionals enter these new markets. www.thegma.org.uk/groundsweek
Trade skills: A paramount challenge is to match
landscape designers’ talents with what clients desire. To
anticipate future needs, landscaping companies need
to equip their staff with new skills. We will need to think
deeply about the basics of our business (knowledge
of soils, plant recognition), to meet the challenges of
biodiversity and adapt to emerging innovations (robotics,
use of drones and digitalisation) all requiring new skills.
www.paysalia.com
#GroundsWeek dates for 2022
Looking ahead for 2022, the Grounds Management
Association (GMA), the not-for-profit membership body
for grounds professionals, volunteers and businesses,
has announced the return of #GroundsWeek next year,
to be held once again in the first week of March (28th
February – 6th March, 2022).
GMA launched the inaugural #GroundsWeek in March
2021 – a campaign celebrating grounds management
professionals and volunteers, and galvanising a new GroundsWeek celebrates the work of grounds staff
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 19FEATURE
A double-edged sward
Whether you’re laying natural or artificial turf, guide clients on how best to maintain
their investment. Each option has pitfalls for the unwary, Greg Rhodes discovers
Green lawns supplied by natural turf supplier Inturf
Passing a petrol forecourt recently, I spotted a strip of They also confirm another reality - that non-sport
synthetic turf running along the frontage with the pavement. applications for synthetic turf are rising, a fact borne
What a sorry site it was - flattened, dirty and looking out by Colin Corline, Project Manager for sector
distinctly moth-eaten. That first impression did little to body SAPCA (the Sports and Play Construction
enhance the public image of synthetic grass, or the fuel Association) whose members include synthetic turf
retailer, merely serving to stress the importance of regular suppliers and installers.
upkeep to the appearance and presentation of the product. “We are witnessing an upswing in landscape
A front garden near home has every bit of green installations,” he says, “with some members opening
synthetic. Newly laid, the lawn looks clean, trim and landscape-specific sales teams to handle inquiries."
well-upholstered. Round the corner, a tiny triangle of In sport of course, the story of synthetic turf is a
synthetic grass graces a sloping border below a front bay continually evolving one, recently impacted by mounting
window. Why? Is my first thought – when the turf takes fears over the damage that microplastic particles can
up probably no more than a few square metres of space. wreak on ecosystems, particularly marine ones.
Even nearer home, my next-door-but-one neighbours It’s become a big talking point in the last couple of
brought in contractors last year to dig up their back years. Afterall, on a full-size pitch, you’re talking about
garden grass to replace it with synthetic lawn. They are replacing some 7,000 m2 of natural turf with a synthetic
a full-time working family with an energetic young son surface but the socioeconomic benefits can be major.
and daughter. Soon after, the family had to recall the Operators can expect to get around four hours a day
contractors to correct a reportedly faulty installation. sporting use on a real pitch, compared with eight to ten
Each example illustrates important factors about hours a day with a synthetic one.
synthetic turf – know what you’re doing before attempting Hybrid pitches, blending natural and artificial grass
to install it, maintain it regularly and consider site offer an appropriate surface for football and rugby and
conditions carefully before selecting it. they are also ncreasingly specified for golf greens.
20 www.landscapermagazine.comFEATURE
In the end, it’s a case of “horses for courses”, Colin
concludes. “Schools for example may install synthetic
pitches, while still retaining natural ones."
Synthetic turf upkeep
SAPCA member TigerTurf offers low maintenance
solutions to fit today’s demand from busy households less
inclined to uphold the traditions of gardening and lawncare.
Based in Kidderminster, they have made and
supplied artificial turf for local, national and international
installations since 2001. Their business still rests largely
on synthetic turf for sport, but landscaping applications
are “growing steadily”, says marketing manager Jess
Finnegan, “mainly for back gardens but also increasingly
for business sites.”
TigerTurf supply directly to the end user and through
a national network of installers, some “early adopters” of
synthetic turf. One of them, Bradleys Surfacing Systems,
installed the Magic Garden children’s play facility at
Hampton Court Palace.
Jess voices a thought now growing in prominence.
”Many think artificial grass is easier to install and
maintain than it actually is. Our early adopter installers
have plenty of experience of laying it to ensure the
best results so we have prepared guidance on both
installation and maintenance.”
Although TigerTurf guarantee their artificial grass
for eight years against UV degradation or discolouring,
also providing a manufacturer’s warranty, they cannot
For some, artificial turf makes managing family life easier
be responsible for the ground conditions on which their
product is laid, Jess clarifies.
“Conditions can vary from site to site but we do Part and parcel of the turf product growers supply,
suggest installers apply compacted Type 1 stone, the polypropylene reinforcement degrades over time,
screed with a 6 cm layer of sharp sand and lay a geotile explains David Davies, founder and managing director
membrane to act as a barrier to weeds and roots. of Early Turf Systems, which supplies Belgian-made
Synthetic turf upkeep includes power brushing says Oxygrid.
Jess adding that maintaining hygienic conditions on “Light, heat and moisture cause the netting to naturally
synthetic turf is also a key priority. “Children and dogs degrade once turf is laid,” he says, “losing half its
love the surface for playing or just sitting on,” says Jess, strength after one to two years and fully degrading within
"and there’s no mud to worry about. Pet wee doesn’t around five years.”
discolour the pile but dog wee may cause odour in warm If asked by their clients and customers, landscape
weather. Probiotic Wee Away cleaning liquid spray is contractors can reassure them that the netting will
effective for that.” degrade after achieving its primary function, adds David,
Today’s generation of synthetic turf offers far softer, who has spent more than 40 years as a grower and the
polyethylene, pile and replicates natural grass more last ten a supplier. Sitting a few millimetres below the
closely, TigerTurf states. So the message is clear. surface, the netting could be exposed if homeowners
Synthetic turf is no `lay it and leave it` solution but a or turfcare contractors scarify too soon and too heavily
system that demands continuing care and attention to after installation.
keep the surface in an optimum condition. “Thatch shouldn’t present an issue for the first year or
two so there’s no need to scarify until later on,” David says.
Net benefit Adopted on housing construction sites and golf
While hybrid turf gathers pace in the sports sector, courses, the reinforced turf system is also in place at
net-reinforced grass is gaining ground for residential some football club facilities in Europe, he confirms.
applications. “Fine-discing the surface ensures there is no early issue
Turf growers are reaping the business and with snagging,” David states.”
environmental benefits of laying polymer netting to help Also Turfgrass Growers Association (TGA) members
speed the establishment and harvesting cycle of the (David worked with the Association on soil erosion and
grass plant after sowing. soil loss projects) Early Turf Systems take a rounded
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 21FEATURE
view of polypropylene netting’s place in the green The landscape sector for natural turf alone is
equation. “Plastics manufacturers are working hard “growing exponentially” he reports. “With £140bn
to develop products that are more environmentally lodged in UK personal savings accounts, the money is
beneficial,” David says. there for homeowners to invest in their gardens.”
“Polypropylene reinforcement offers growers huge Cultural practices prevail at Inturf, Stephen says.
savings in carbon emissions - shorter growing cycle, “Spring is the key time to treat natural grass. Careful
more efficient land use and an enormous reduction in application a selective herbicide is a necessary part
waste and haulage costs. of the turfgrowing programme to prevent risk of weed
In time, the sector may have moved to a position of infestation."
`there’s no reason not to use degradable reinforcement But he stresses: "Turf is an effective barrier to
for more efficient turf production`, David believes, adding: weeds as greater sward density naturally deters them
“Grass is one of the world’s greatest air conditioners in from proliferating.”
terms of carbon dioxide it absorbs and oxygen it emits – After the first strong growth, grass starts to seed
a fact that should be recognised much more.” around June time, when it’s cut, bouncing back in
autumn, when it’s thinned out. “Right fertility and
moisture levels are essential for healthy turf,” Stephen
adds. “Although we will irrigate if necessary, it’s best
to wait for rain.
Though acknowledging that synthetic turf is an
option, Stephen predicts a return to the natural
solution. “After two or three years, customers may
begin to recognise some of the issues with an artificial
lawn – fading colour, hygiene and possible slip
hazards when the pile flattens with use.”
Drainage is “far worse” too, he claims. “Problems
Early Turf Systems lay polymer netting
can arise with water run-off from totally artificial turf.
Also, natural turf breaks down the enzymes present in
Natural selection pet faeces and they are digested in the ecosystem.
Lawncare specialists across the country are doing “There’s also the mental health aspect. Research
just that, committed to keeping natural grass has proved that the feeling of coolness on the soles
the go-to choice for homeowners. The UK Lawn of the feet encourages the formation of endorphins,
Care Association (UKLCA) supports independent which generate feelings of wellbeing.”
businesses serving this sector, whether start-ups or UK Lawn Care Association member, Cheshire
multi-van operations. Lawn Therapy manages and remedies residential
The fashion for faux maybe in full swing, boosted by gardens in the North-west, offering “professional,
Covid-19 lockdowns, but more landscapers may soon affordable lawncare services" across the county and
start to appreciate the true qualities of natural turf in in Manchester.
the round, according to grower and supplier Inturf. The family-run concern tackles lawn issues like
The company harvests its product on the light, moss, weeds, brown patches and turf diseases,
sandy, virtually stone-free loam of the Vale of York, also offering clients tips on how to best maintain
long known as a prime place to nurture turf. their lawns.
Supplying public and private sectors either direct or Committed to promoting the cause of natural grass,
through its distributor network, the family-run business owner Steve Hatton says “people want nature in their
is witnessing change in the sector, it acknowledges. gardens and living turf helps attract it”.
“Natural turf is not really laid for sports installations He accepts that synthetics have their place though.
these days,” declares director Stephen Edwards. “In “They can work for houses built in confined spaces
part that’s because hybrid pitches (a blend of real grass with very small or narrow gardens, or lawns in deep
and synthetic fibres) allow greater intensity of use, a key shade that can be difficult to maintain,” he says.
cost criterion for clubs and operators,” he says. Steve is passionate about the importance of cultural
“The vast majority of our turf is destined for practices to conserve a healthy soil balance, along
landscaping applications, sold via our network of with his stock in trade lawn renovation that covers
distributors and stockists or direct to retailers.” scarifying and topdressing and seeding with dwarf
As “pioneers in turfgrass growing”, Inturf has stuck ryegrass mixes.
to its guns in continuing to practise traditional methods, Good mowing regimes are critical to lawn health,
albeit with greater accent on environmental issues. he insists. “I never recommend a cylinder machine,
A TGA member, the company believes it holds “a unless we’re talking about bowling and golf greens.
responsibility to the planet” in the way it grows grass Regular cutting is key but lawns do not need
and delivers the product to market. micromanaging in the way sports surfaces do.”
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Fungal attack
Lawns treated by Inturf for Fusarium patch disease
Alex Edwards, Joint MD at Inturf, advises on a common turf ailment - Fusarium patch disease
Fusarium patch disease is the most common and one As with all plant diseases, the spores from this fungus
of the most damaging diseases of turfgrass in the UK, are abundant, but only cause disease if environmental
which can be difficult to control. conditions are right for growth.
The disease is caused by the fungus Microdochium
nivale but in the past its Latin name was Fusarium nivale,
hence its common name.
The fungus develops as an irregularly shaped
orange-brown area of turf a few centimetres in diameter,
sometimes with a white or pink fluffy growth around the
edge of the patch.
The disease can occur at any time of the year and
over a period of weeks these fungal patches die back
and can create areas of bare ground. These gradually
recover naturally if weather and soil conditions are warm
enough. However, if the disease occurs in the autumn/
winter, the conditions may not be suitable for recovery
until the following spring because the turf is not growing
fast enough to recover quickly. Healthy lawn
The disease can especially take hold if snow falls on
the infected turf. The layer of snow insulates the disease If, for example, the weather is very still, damp and
fungus from the cold and allows it to grow beneath the mild, the grass stays wet for most of the day and
snow. When this occurs it becomes commonly known as Fusarium patches are likely to develop. The fungus
“snow mould” and more extensive damage can occur. grows in the water film on the grass leaf and that is why
heavy dews and still air favour its spread.
Chemical free and cultural practices can reduce the
risk of Fusarium patch disease so avoid over-feeding
turf and try not to lay in damp, shady locations with still
stagnant air. To keep the lawn surface dry, mow regularly
to prevent the leaves of the grass becoming too long.
Air movement dries the lawn surface, making conditions
less suitable for growth of fungal diseases.
The condition of the soil under the turf is also very
important in defending against disease attack - a well-
structured, free-draining soil will help produce healthy turf.
In most cases, the diseased area will completely
Orange brown patches indicate Fusarium patch disease
recover once the grass is actively growing again.
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 25LANDSCAPER’S CIRCLE
Carry on marketing
It's great when business is booming, but are you planning ahead for the quiet times?
Paula Warman explains why marketing is key even when you are busy
The sun is out, the weather is warming you are able to post realistically each week and stick
up and clients are in abundance for to it. I would say 2-3 a week is a great starting point.
those working in the landscaping Consistency is the key.
industry. This time of year we • Content of your posts. Plan your content or at least
are thankful that we have a a have a rough idea of what you will be posting. Write
horticulture based business and it down and have the images ready to use with it (use
most business owners I speak to Dropbox Paper or a simple word document). It doesn’t
are having the busiest time they always have to be about projects, put some of you
have ever experienced. and your personality into posts as these are what
Unfortunately, the downside to this prospective clients buy into.
is that we often forget, or don’t have time to, to continue • Schedule the posts. Once you have created the
our marketing efforts when we are full on. It may captions and collated the images find software that will
seem like it’s a waste of time when you have too many schedule your posts. There are many to choose from
enquiries to deal with. However, if you stop marketing from Later.com to Hootsuite, Sendible and Tweetdeck.
during these busy periods then how will you be prepared The beauty of a scheduler is you can schedule a
for when the enquiries slow down? month’s worth of social posts in a matter of minutes.
The best way to ensure you always have a stream • Choose your platform. It can be overwhelming if you
of continuous enquiries is to be consistent with your try to manage too many social platforms so stick to a
marketing. Here are three ways to effectively keep on maximum of three and ensure you consistently post
track with little cost. there. Take note of which platforms your clients might
use the most. If you struggle with social media check
1. Google My Business (GMB) – Often overlooked and out www.expertsocial.co.uk helping landscapers and
yet a very simple and easy-to-use platform to market designers get more social!
a business. To make the most of this platform...
• If you haven’t already, claim your business as yours. 3. Your Website – This is your shop front, the place
• Request reviews. When you log into GMB there is a to showcase what you do and how your clients can
link for reviews – copy, paste into an email and send to benefit from choosing to work with you. Schedule some
clients that have had works completed by you asking time once a month to look at and make updates to your
for a review. website, such as
• Add images. For example, you can upload the best • Update gallery and case study pages. Add new finished
images of your work, your team, and anything else that projects or create a case study of a project you have
showcases your business. Remember, particularly in completed and loved. A tip here is not to feature all
this industry, an image speaks a thousand words images of your work but the images of projects you
• Add posts. You can post an update as regularly as want more of.
you like. Depending on time you may choose to add • Update copy. Can you improve the words you use on
weekly or monthly, posting just as you would on social the website? Make it speak directly to your ideal clients,
media. Maybe showcase a project, highlight a review, adding more keywords in (great for SEO) or talk more
tell people about a new product or service you are about benefits rather than features.
introducing, or even link to your blog or articles you • Update team images. If you have a “Meet The Team”
have written. Don’t forget to use hashtags too. page make sure the images and staff profiles are up
to date.
2. Social Media – The way forward for any business • Blog. Write a blog to answer frequently asked questions
in horticulture. All platforms are free and most people from clients. A blog also helps for Google rankings.
already have a social profiles, although many in the •R efresh the website design. A website needs regular
industry are probably not using them to their true updating and maintaining, whether for a re-brand, to
potential. Here are a few ways to save time on social: add new colour schemes or to make navigation around
• Number of posts a week. Decide how many posts your site easier.
The Landscaper’s Circle is the only online platform exclusively for business owners in the landscaping industry to learn
how to market and run their business better. Become part of the #TLCTribe today for training and support. If you need
our help please email at info@thelandscaperscircle.co.uk | www.thelandscaperscircle.co.uk
The Landscaper | Issue 253 | May/June 2021 27You can also read
