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Segway launches the Navimow i Series

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Segway launches the Navimow i Series: Segway is launching the Navimow i Series in Europe, with prices starting at a highly competitive £949.

The launch extends the Navimow product line, following the introduction of the premium H Series in the UK last year, with the i Series providing hassle-free and intelligent mowing through a uniquely developed positioning system, AI-powered assistant mapping function and smart features such as scheduled mowing.

A few taps and away you mow

The ultimate aim of the Navimow i Series is to provide a user-friendly experience for gardeners of all levels of expertise, and this begins with a clear and easy setup process. Everything can be set up virtually via the Navimow app, with users able to mark virtual boundaries, identify off-limits islands, and draw safe channels to connect multiple zones in just a few taps, getting them up and running within minutes.

Self-developed RTK positioning system with vision enhancement

Only robotic lawnmowers that offer accurate positioning and route planning can be truly relied upon by users to deliver a precision cut every time. To ensure a high level of dependability, Segway has developed its own vision+RTK (real-time kinematic) positioning system, that combines a customised RTK chip with a vision system enabled by a 140°POV camera. As a result, the Navimow i Series can handle a diverse range of lawn layouts while providing centimetre-level positioning, navigating gardens stably and systematically and intelligently avoiding objects.

All-new AI-powered assistant mapping function

The Navimow i Series leverages cutting-edge AI technology to optimise mapping accuracy. The mower’s AI-powered assistant feature identifies the edge of the user’s lawn during the mapping process and is then automatically able to navigate the entire working area all by itself. Based on the map created by the AI assistant, users can then revise and finetune the working area on the app with ease, working alongside the technology to deliver a high level of performance.

Smart features designed for flawless lawn maintenance

Navimow i Series users can enjoy scheduled cutting that allows them to keep their lawn in check even when they’re away on holiday. The model can mow according to a planned schedule, even automatically recharging when needed, guaranteeing a pristine lawn 100% of the time. Segway’s latest offering also employs a unique zig-zag cutting pattern, changing angle after the first round of mowing is complete to ensure every blade of grass is covered. Finally, users can opt to turn on Ride-on Boundary mode where the i Series straddles the physical boundary between grass and non-grass areas, servicing those tough-to-reach lawn edges that both traditional and robotic mowers struggle to reach.

George Ren, CEO of Segway Navimow BU, commented: “With the Navimow i Series we wanted to create a robotic mower that caters to everyone, from users that have zero experience with robotic or even traditional mowers, to green-fingered gardening extraordinaires. We believe that our latest offering delivers mass usability, with a host of smart features delivering an easy-to-use product experience and a competitive price point that makes the i Series more accessible than almost every other robotic mower on the market.

“The i Series perfectly complements the H Series models that launched in 2021, allowing us to service all segments of the market with precise and boundary-cord-free cutting. Since its launch in Europe, the H Series has proven immensely popular, recording cumulative sales of over 40,000 and making Navimow one of the industry’s most sought-after names. We’re optimistic that the i Series will propel our growth in the gardening space, establishing Navimow as a true innovator in the sector.”

Pricing and where to buy

The Navimow i Series is available to buy now. With two different models, Navimow’s MSRP ranges between £949 and £1,199. Consumers in the UK are able to purchase the Navimow i Series from authorized dealers whose full list can be found in Navimow’s official website: navimow.segway.com

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Palmer Nurseries partners with Inturf

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Palmer Nurseries partners with Inturf: Palmer Nurseries, a horticultural hub in Leeds which is home to a plant nursery, garden centre and landscape operation, is proud to announce its collaboration with Inturf, a national turf production specialist, to introduce premium turf options to customers across West Yorkshire.

This partnership highlights a significant step forward in providing environmentally friendly turf solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of commercial landscapers, DIYers, homeowners, and sports facility managers.

Palmer Nurseries partners with Inturf

Palmer Nurseries partners with Inturf

Inturf’s Classic turf, now available through Palmer Nurseries, is a testament to innovation and sustainability in landscaping. Crafted without plastic or netting, this turf is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly. Its composition, carefully designed to absorb more carbon dioxide, significantly reduces its impact on the surrounding environment.

“Adding turf to our list of supplies in our horticultural hub is an exciting step forward for us in becoming a one-stop shop for landscaping needs. Our partnership with Inturf allows us to offer customers a premium turf option that combines durability, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility,” says Ben Palmer, Director of Palmer Nurseries. “As one of only a few suppliers who do not grow plastic netting, Inturf were the perfect partner for us.”

In addition to its environmental benefits, Inturf’s Classic turf boasts exceptional strength, making it resistant to both drought and wear. Its unique blend of shoot density and fescues ensures a vibrant green colour throughout the year, perfectly complementing every season.

“We are excited to add Palmer Nurseries as our West Yorkshire stockist to bring our environmentally friendly Classic turf to a wider audience,” says Alex Edwards, Joint Managing Director of Inturf. “By offering this premium turf option, we aim to provide customers with a sustainable landscaping solution that exceeds their expectations in terms of quality and durability.”

The partnership between Palmer Nurseries and Inturf ensures that customers can rely on locally sourced, premium turf options backed by expert knowledge and support. Whether it’s for residential lawns, commercial properties, or public spaces, customers can trust Palmer Nurseries to deliver the finest turf solutions for their projects.

Palmer Nurseries invites customers to explore its expanded turf offerings from Inturf, now available at their site on Calverley Lane in Leeds.

For more information about Palmer Nurseries and its turf offerings from Inturf, please visit https://www.palmernurseries.co.uk/turf.

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Redexim Turf Tidy tackles thinning roughs

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Redexim Turf Tidy tackles thinning roughs: The delivery of a Redexim Turf Tidy 3000 has brought a swift end to the hunt by Arbroath Golf Links for a versatile cut and collect machine for maintenance of their roughs and fairways.

An impressive demonstration sealed the deal for delivery by HRN Tractors in November 2023, with the Turf Tidy going on to thin out over an acre of roughs over the winter period – improving the playability and ecological status of the Scottish club.

Redexim Turf Tidy tackles thinning roughs

Redexim Turf Tidy tackles thinning roughs

The maintenance of the traditional coastal links course, designed in 1877 by Old Tom Morris and opened a year later, is currently managed by Head Greenkeeper Ally Wyllie and a team of two. “We decided to try and tackle our thick rough to create a more enjoyable experience for our members” Ally explains. “After a conversation with David Raitt at HRN Tractors, we had a demonstration of the Turf Tidy and could immediately see how well it performed… so much so, we placed the order there and then!”

The versatile Redexim Turf Tidy 3000 offers effective scarification, flail cutting or sweeping with collection in a single pass. Designed with a fully floating head, the Turf Tidy is able to follow the contours of the ground making it suitable for a range of fine turf and sports turf applications. A 1.8m working width and 3m3 hopper – with hydraulic high-tip function – complete the specification.

“Since its delivery, the Turf Tidy has done a fantastic job of cutting through the long grasses to thin out over an acre of roughs. With this work well received by the members, we’re looking to continue this project into the spring, with the aim of enhancing our ecological status through the encouragement of finer and more native grasses.”

He continues, “One of the main reasons we purchased this machine was its ease of use and the speed at which we can change between functions. We’re planning on using this machine between October and March, and by quickly and simply adjusting the rollers we can change the set-up from flail mowing the roughs to scarifying the fairways – bringing these up to the standards we’re setting on other areas around the course.”

Ally also comments on the brilliant back-up support and service received pre and post-purchase. “David, together with Allen Whellans from Redexim, have been brilliant throughout. The help we’ve had has set us on the right track to get the best out of our machine and achieve the very best results.”

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New recruits join GMA Young Board of Directors

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New recruits join GMA Young Board of Directors: The GMA’s Young Board of Directors, sponsored by Reesink Turfcare, has recruited four new talented young grounds professionals to its ranks. The new additions will add fresh energy to the Young Board’s efforts to inspire the next generation of young people to join the sector.

Joining existing members are Meg Lay, Beth Gibbs, Liddy Ford and Jack Langley. Meg, who recently moved from Gloucestershire CC to Lord’s Cricket Ground, and Beth, who is part of Wellington School’s grounds team, join the Young Board fresh off the back of successes in the GMA Industry Awards 2023 where Meg won Newcomer of the Year and Beth won Young Groundsperson of the Year.

New recruits join GMA Young Board of Directors

New recruits join GMA Young Board of Directors

Liddy joins the Young Board with a background in horticulture as well as a BSc in sport and exercise science. Her current role is as a part of the grounds team at St George’s Park, the Football Association’s base for all 23 of England’s national football teams.

Jack joins having progressed from Assistant Grounds person to Deputy Head Grounds person at Ashton Gate Stadium, a multi-sport facility that acts as the home of Bristol City Football Club and Bristol Bears. The four new additions will use their varied backgrounds across sporting and educational facilities, and enthusiasm for grounds management, to represent the GMA in activity that aims to inspire young people to join the sector.

Work will begin with three of the new Board members, Meg, Liddy and Beth, representing the GMA as part of the all-female grounds team preparing the pitch at Emirates Stadium for Arsenal vs Tottenham in the Women’s Super League on Sunday 3 March 2024.

Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, is delighted to welcome the four new members to the Young Board:

“We established the Young Board of Directors in 2011 with the aim of encouraging more young people to consider careers in grounds management. Since then, a number of the founding members have gone on to achieve great things, including John Ledwidge, Head of Grounds and Landscapes at Manchester City FC, Ryan Golding, Head Groundsman at Leeds Rhinos, and Nick Phillips, Training Center Manager at Tottenham Hotspur FC.

“Beth, Meg, Liddy and Jack, bring fresh ideas and energy, and it’s clear that we’ve brought some exceptionally talented young professionals onto the existing team. We’re delighted to welcomethem all to the Board and are excited to see them contribute to our work on inspiring the next generation to join the sector.”

Gillian Haverson, Marketing & Communications Manager at Young Board sponsors, Reesink Turfcare said:

“Reesink is thrilled to offer its continued support for this great initiative and the excellent work done by the GMA Young Board of Directors. It’s always exciting to see women flourishing in this industry and we look forward to working with each of the new members. With this new injection of enthusiasm, we’re confident the GMA Young Board can only go from strength to strength.”

Beth, Liddy and Meg will all be in action as part of the trailblazing all-female grounds team preparing the pitch at Emirates Stadium for Arsenal vs Tottenham in the Women’s Super League on Sunday 3 March 2024, which will be free to view on the BBC.

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STIHL announces charity partnership

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STIHL announces charity partnership: Leading premium garden tools brand, STIHL GB, is partnering with Perennial, the UK’s only charity dedicated to helping people in horticulture.

The STIHL team will volunteer in a wide range of fund-raising activities to provide financial support for Perennial with sponsored events including cycling, hikes, car washes and bake-offs.  Helping the charity provide free and confidential advice, information and support to people working in, or retired from, horticulture and their families.

STIHL announces charity partnership

STIHL announces charity partnership

As part of the new charity partnership Perennial will launch the STIHL equipment replacement fund, to help those in need with donations of tools and PPE.

STIHL GB’s Head of Marketing, Simon Hewitt, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Perennial, a charity whose purpose is so closely linked to our own values.  STIHL has been focused on making people’s lives easier when working in and with nature since our founder, Andreas Stihl, invented the first portable chainsaw in the 1920s.  In pledging our support to Perennial and combining our efforts we hope together we can help many more people in horticulture.”

Phil Swainston, Perennial’s Corporate Partnership Manager, said: “The financial and social pressures faced by individuals working in, and retired from, horticulture are acute, particularly in today’s challenging economic climate where horticulture professionals often contend with relatively low pay and the physical demands of their work. Perennial serves as a lifeline for many in our community, and thus, STIHL’s invaluable support plays a crucial role in our ability to assist those within the horticulture community. STIHL’s support holds immense value, especially as we’ve seen a notable 21% increase in individuals from our sector seeking personal support and a significant rise in those accessing our online tools.”

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