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NEWS ARTICLES

Perennial’s Fiery Fundraiser

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Perennial’s Fiery Fundraiser: Thrilled to share the tremendous success of its recent fiery fundraiser, Perennial, the UK’s charity dedicated to supporting those who work with plants, trees, flowers, or grass held this remarkable gathering on October 26 at York Gate, one of Perennial’s wonderful gardens based in Leeds.

The event brought together garden enthusiasts and industry professionals, raising just over £4,200 for Perennial. This significant contribution will help the charity continue its essential work in providing support to those in the horticulture community during times of need.

Perennial’s Fiery Fundraiser

Perennial’s Fiery Fundraiser

Peter Newman, Perennial’s most recent Chief Executive, actively participated in the event, hot stepping over the burning coals three times, marking it as his final engagement before his retirement in early November.

Alan Down, President of the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA), also joined the event. His participation showcased the continued collaboration between Perennial and key industry figures in supporting those who work tirelessly to maintain the beauty of our gardens and green spaces.

The event was further enriched by the involvement of Jack Ogg, Head Gardener at York Gate, who encouraged community participation, with numerous York Gate volunteers attending to observe the brave participants walk over hot coals.

Three employees from Plan & Plant, a landscaping company operating across North Yorkshire, took part in the event. Nathaniel Day says of his motivation for braving a walk across hot coals in support of Perennial:

“From my own experience of working in horticulture in North Yorkshire, finding opportunities to grow and develop your career can be challenging. From the outset at Plan & Plant Ltd we were keen to create a community where those involved could feel included and a part of something positive. Perennial too offer vital support and a valuable sense of community to an industry that can feel isolating at times and often challenging. I am keen to offer proactive support to their initiatives whenever possible as you never know when you will need help yourself.

“When I saw Perennial were hosting a fundraiser at their wonderful northern garden, York Gate, I was very excited to see it was firewalking. Being able to challenge ourselves and prove that we can tackle anything was great, but to connect with likeminded peers was a lovely reminder that we are part of a wider endearing community. If you have the time or enthusiasm to help others, we highly recommend signing up for their next challenge.”

Perennial would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who took part in the event, which saw head gardeners, trade associations and volunteers all coming together and supporting Perennial through participation, attendance, and generous donations. Their support has been vital in enabling Perennial to continue offering a lifeline to those who dedicate their lives to the world of horticulture.

As a charity, we rely on the support of all those in the horticultural industry and from all those who enjoy the benefits of their hard work. Fundraising is a fantastic way of supporting what we do. For more information and fundraising initiatives please visit perennial.org.uk/getinvolved

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Kubota’s latest Generation of Zero-Turn Mowers

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Kubota’s latest Generation of Zero-Turn Mowers: Kubota fully supports the declaration of the world becoming a fully sustainable carbon neutral environment by 2050. In conjunction with world demand on zero emissions, Kubota has to deliver and meet the customer’s needs for a productive, efficient and durable machine.

The Ze electric zero-turn models not only meet productivity requirements, but also with a higher level of operator comfort through reduced noise levels and less vibration during operation.

Kubota's latest Generation of Zero-Turn Mowers

Kubota’s latest Generation of Zero-Turn Mowers

Together these mowers 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.

The engineering development of the Ze range began back in 2017 where the key requirements always remained the same and that is a machine that can operate for a full working day providing excellent driver comfort and outstanding cutting quality. Testing has been carried out throughout Europe to ensure that the performance is consistent whether it is in wet tall grass or dry rigid grass.

Silent power

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.

Electric drive

There are a total of three electric drive motors on the Ze. Two drive motors (one for each wheel) and one drive motor for the mower deck. The battery discharge can be optimised as the drive power to the cutting deck can be adapted to suit the working conditions. There is a choice of three working modes – ECO, Standard and Boost. The key difference is the blade speed and the mode can be set according to the work required.

High quality cutting performance whatever the conditions

Kubota know how and technology is incorporated into all areas of these machines. A prime example is the K-sense. Forward speed to deck cutting speed is continuously monitored to provide optimum performance. Should the deck encounter a heavy load, the forward speed would compensate and slow down to ensure the best possible cutting quality. When the load reduces the travel speed automatically increases.

The Ze Series is available with 42” or 48” side discharge mower decks. Both deck options can be fitted with a mulching kit.

Simplicity and comfort incorporated

The deck lifting and lowering is a low effort foot pedal control. Quick-dial deck height setting adjustment ensures cutting height can be set quickly and easily. When the motion drive levers return to neutral the auto parking brake is engaged for safe dismount.

A deluxe high back seat with position adjustment, armrests and additional lumbar support ensures ultimate comfort.

Right from the start of development, the engineers knew that meeting the environmental targets set could not be at the expense of productivity, performance and comfort. The end result is the Ze Series which incorporates the best of both.

These new products will be presented for the first time at Saltex in UK, Agritechnica in Germany and Paysalia in France. They will be available on the market from April 2024.

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John Deere’s Worldwide Agriculture & Turf president

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John Deere’s Worldwide Agriculture & Turf president: Deere & Company (NYSE:DE) announced today that it has named Deanna Kovar as its new President of Worldwide Agriculture and Turf, Small Ag and Turf, and Regions 1 and 2, which include the company’s presence in Asia, Africa, and Europe. She replaces Mark von Pentz who is retiring.

In this role, Kovar will be responsible for the overall management and performance of the company’s Small Ag and Turf business, as well as John Deere’s performance in these markets. Kovar previously served as vice president, Production and Precision Ag since 2020, where she led a global team focused on delivering equipment and technology solutions that help ag operators be more productive, profitable, and sustainable.

John Deere's Worldwide Agriculture & Turf president

John Deere’s Worldwide Agriculture & Turf president

Kovar joined Deere in 2000 and spent most of her career in positions in channel and product management, where she gained a deep understanding of ag customers’ requirements. She has developed an extensive background in precision technologies, beginning with her move in 2010 to the company’s Intelligent Solutions Group as Manager of Portfolio Management. Later positions included Division Sales Manager, director, Production & Precision Ag Marketing, and director, Global Operator Stations.

“Deanna and her team will play an instrumental role in advancing our smart industrial strategy to deliver enhanced customer value in the Small Ag and Turf markets, as well as in Regions 1 & 2,” said John May, Chief Executive Officer for Deere & Company. “Her deep customer understanding, professional background in channel and product management, keen business insights, and record of consistent success make Deanna well-qualified for her new role.”

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10% off Terralift aeration at Futurescape

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10% off Terralift aeration at Futurescape: Terrain Aeration, the one-metre deep aeration specialists, are offering 10% off their Terralift aeration treatment for visitors at Futurescape.

The Terralift system is used in areas where panning and heavy compaction have caused the ground to flood and hold standing water. Treatment is also carried out around trees where heavy footfall or vehicle movement has occurred, leaving the surface hard with reduced permeability. Affected areas Terrain Aeration treat range from sports pitches, amenity areas, racecourses and bowling greens, to parks, National Trust gardens and the private gardens of new-build houses. In fact, in any area where normal aeration cannot be fully effective because of the depth of the compaction.

10% off Terralift aeration at Futurescape

10% off Terralift aeration at Futurescape

The Terralift machine drives a probe to a depth of up to one metre where compressed air is released, breaking the underground compaction and causing a network of cracks and fissures to form. The work is done on a grid system so the fissures interlink. As the probe exits, dried seaweed is injected which expands and contracts with moisture to keep the fissures and probe holes open. This allows both drainage and air to get to turf or tree roots. The probe can also inject water-storing polymer, mycorrhizal funghi, bio-char and slow release tree feed nutrients and magnesium. The probe holes are filled with aggregate so areas can be used immediately. There are various types of Terralift machine to enable access to most areas. The system is unique to Terrain Aeration and has been proving itself since 1985. Visitors to Futurescape and the Terrain Aeration stand can take advantage of 10% off the normal cost of Terralift deep aeration. Stand number L60.

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Boosting everyone’s game

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Boosting everyone’s game: Over the two days, SALTEX has proved that it was the place to be for anyone connected to the groundscare industry looking to boost their game.  Visitors were enthusiastic about the wide range of exhibitors, technical insight on show and networking opportunities available.

Thousands of visitors from 58 countries streamed through the doors of SALTEX and enjoyed two days of examining the latest innovations on the market and attending a string of inspiring Learning LIVE sessions.

Boosting everyone's game

Boosting everyone’s game

Callum Allsopp, Senior Sports Turf and Grounds Manager at Leicester City Football Club was taking part in a Learning LIVE session on ‘Managing Up’ whilst also making the most of his time at the show to seek out new products to bring to his club.

“SALTEX comes at the right time to help us start planning for the remainder of the season and also next season. We attend with the primary objective of seeing the lay of the land in terms of new innovations and technology and looking at what we can take back and implement at the stadium and training grounds. This year’s show was so worthwhile, and we come away with so much to consider for next year.”

Not only did SALEX deliver for the thousands of engaged visitors, but it also hit the right notes with exhibitors who found that the crowds were filled with people who were serious about doing business.

“With multiple new innovations we decided to use SALTEX as our main launching platform”, says Trimax Mowing System’s Global Brand Manager, Caroline Shaw. “The show saw a constant flow of visitors throughout the two days and proved to be the perfect channel for us to catch up with customers and generate new leads. We will definitely be back next year!”

As the 2023 show came to a close, GMA Chief Executive Officer Geoff Webb said: “The atmosphere across both days was brilliant — it’s great to see the international appeal of SALTEX continue to grow year on year.

“The industry has turned out in force and we have had some great feedback. Visitors have welcomed our new initiatives and applauded the Learning LIVE sessions which we are very proud of. The inaugural Community Sports Zone has been a great success – with both exhibitors and visitors seeing real value and insight.

“SALTEX this year was all about Boosting Your Game and, in doing so, SALTEX has also boosted the industry. Through supporting all attendees in boosting everything from your knowledge, skills, sales, surface and network, our industry will leave SALTEX stronger and more connected.

“Thanks to everyone – visitors, exhibitors, and speakers – for making SALTEX possible. We’re already looking forward to welcoming the industry back to SALTEX in 2024.”

SALTEX will return to the NEC in 2024 on 30-31 October.

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