Bionema Leads £961,000 Biofilm Biofertiliser Project

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Bionema Leads £961,000 Biofilm Biofertiliser Project: As the world faces mounting pressure to reduce synthetic fertiliser use amid climate and soil degradation crises, a groundbreaking £961,000 project led by Bionema Group, a UK-based biocontrol technology developer, is paving the way for a sustainable transformation in nutrient management.

This project is funded by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) through the Farming Innovation Programme, under the Nutrient Management Competition. The programme is delivered in partnership with Innovate UK.

Bionema Leads £961,000 Biofilm Biofertiliser Project

Bionema Leads £961,000 Biofilm Biofertiliser Project

Funded by Innovate UK, the Biofilm Biofertiliser project brings together a consortium of scientific and industry leaders to develop a first-of-its-kind, biofilm-based biofertiliser, offering a scalable, low-cost, and environmentally responsible alternative to chemical fertilisers. This UK-developed innovation is poised to have global relevance as agriculture seeks regenerative, high-impact solutions to feed a growing population without destroying natural ecosystems.

“The global fertiliser crisis is not just about rising prices—it’s about the survival of our soils,” said Dr Minshad Ansari, CEO and Founder of Bionema Group. “This unique biofilm technology enables farmers to drastically cut synthetic inputs while restoring soil health and increasing crop productivity.”

A Unique Microbial Solution for a Global Challenge

By leveraging a novel consortium of UK-native, biofilm-forming plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), the biofertiliser is designed to reduce synthetic fertiliser usage by 40–50%, while improving nutrient uptake, soil structure, and crop yields by 20–30%.

Formulated as water-dispersible granules (WDG) and encapsulated products, the solution will be easy to apply and have a minimum shelf life of up to 24 months, meeting the operational needs of both large-scale and smallholder farms globally.

Three-year field trials will assess product performance on wheat, potatoes, strawberries, and ornamentals across multiple UK farms. The results are expected to provide a blueprint for international adoption across diverse soil and crop types.

“This project offers a revolutionary approach to improving soil health and reducing nitrogen dependency,” said Richard Glass, Innovation Lead at the UK Agri-Tech Centre. “The environmental and economic benefits could be transformative for farmers in the UK and globally.”

A Collaboration to Scale Sustainability

In addition to Bionema Group’s leadership in microbial R&D and product development, the project consortium includes:

  1. CPI, providing process development, scale-up, and manufacturing support.
  2. UK Agri-Tech Centre, leading knowledge exchange, end-user engagement, and impact dissemination.

“We’re excited to help bring this breakthrough to market,” said Kris Wadrop, Managing Director – Materials at CPI. “By combining our formulation expertise with Bionema’s biological innovation, we’re creating a product that can be scaled in the UK and deployed globally.”

Lasting Impact and Global Relevance

This innovative product addresses critical issues in modern agriculture:

  1. Reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and nitrogen runoff
  2. Strengthens resilience against climate and market volatility
  3. Supports compliance with UK and EU fertiliser reduction targets
  4. Aligns with UN SDGs: Zero Hunger, Climate Action, Life on Land, and Responsible Consumption

By producing and scaling the solution in the UK, the project reduces import dependency and positions the UK as a global leader in biocontrol and biofertiliser innovation.

“This is not just a UK story—it’s a global one,” added Dr. Ansari. “With the right partnerships and investment, we can roll out this sustainable technology to farmers worldwide.”

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Join the horticultural community for an afternoon of fun and fundraising

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Join the horticultural community for an afternoon of fun and fundraising: Perennial is once again bringing the horticultural community together to celebrate our supporter’s efforts and to ask you all to dig deep to raise vital funds for your industry charity.

From arborists, foresters and tree surgeons to gardeners, growers, landscapers, garden centre employees and nursery staff to greenkeepers and grounds staff the aim is to raise funds to support you and your family’s future.

Join the horticultural community for an afternoon of fun and fundraising

Join the horticultural community for an afternoon of fun and fundraising

With one million people working in or retired from horticulture across the UK, Perennial’s services are in considerable demand. The shared goal at this event is for everyone to raise essential funds so Perennial’s services can continue to provide a lifeline to those who dedicated their lives to growing and caring for the green spaces that enrich our lives.

Whether you’ve already held your own fundraising activity, or you are planning to this year, we encourage you to celebrate your efforts and network together with other like-minded supporters at Perennial’s fundraising lunch.

Join colleagues, fundraisers and supporters and feel proud of your good deeds on Friday 10 October from midday to 4:30pm (…feel free to cheer yourselves on into the evening!) at The Cumberland, London. The ticket price of £145 per person includes a glass of “cheers to you” fizz on arrival and a celebratory three-course meal with wine, plus a heartfelt “thank you” from Perennial President Alan Titchmarsh CBE VMH.

This year’s event will be hosted by award-winning garden designer and TV gardener Manoj Malde, who will be joined by professional gardener and radio personality, guest speaker, Matthew Biggs. We will once again be celebrating the efforts of those who have gone above and beyond for Perennial with our Silver Shovel Spotlight Awards and of course asking you to dig deep during the envelope raffle and in our live auction led by The Charity Auctioneer, Mark Head. This year’s auction includes some old favourites and exciting new lots such as a day’s consultancy with horticultural business consultant Neville Stein, an Exclusive Hotel Group package, a Wembley Stadium Hospitality package and many more. The Plantman & Co. are supporting the event once again by supplying fabulous floral table centrepieces.

Jamie Gault, Perennial’s Chief Executive comments: “Every year, our supporters dig deep, taking on challenges, hosting events, opening their gardens and much more to raise funds. People should feel so proud of their fundraising efforts which help Perennial deliver our vision to build better futures for people in horticulture and their families. Our fundraising lunch and awards recognise all their wholehearted contributions and commitments and keeps up the momentum by raising even more funds. Let’s come together as a community for this fundraising lunch, which will go towards helping people during the winter period and beyond. Tickets are on sale now, so please put the date (10thOctober) in your diary, dig deep all year and join us!”

Every time Perennial’s supporters dig deep, they make a real difference to the lives of people in horticulture and their families. There are lots of reasons why people turn to the charity, such as bereavement, the impact of an accident, health issues or a family breakdown. As the only UK charity helping everyone working in or retired from horticulture and their families, Perennial relies on support from the industry.

This is the event of the year to get together with friends and colleagues for a lively afternoon of anticipation, bidding banter and networking, all in support of your community.

Book your spot at perennial.org.uk/lunch – book a table of 10 and get the 10th place free!

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EGO launches first robotic mowers

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EGO launches first robotic mowers: EGO Power+ is adding not one, but two robotic lawnmowers to its portfolio of battery-powered outdoor power equipment.

EGO’s first robotic tools, the RM4000E and the RM2000E can automate mowing for lawns up to 4000m2 and 2000m2 respectively, meaning users can now sit back and let the mower do the leg work.

EGO launches first robotic mowers

EGO launches first robotic mowers

Andrew Frohock, IoT Product Manager for EGO comments: “Re-defining the way that our customers can care for their lawns, our GPS-supported boundary wire robotic mowers use three pivoting blades to deliver a 24cm cutting width, combined with some innovative mowing features, they offer outstanding cutting performance.”

The EGO robotic mowers are part of a select few boundary wire machines on the market to provide systematic mowing, which delivers a more efficient working practice. The systematic mowing feature enables the mower to cut grass systematically in parallel tracks, providing the most efficient coverage, especially in complex lawn layouts. Likewise, the smart GPS navigation promotes even coverage and reduces wear on the lawn around the charging station. RM2000E and RM4000E are capable of navigating gradients of up to 50%, in challenging and complex spaces.

Users benefit from a choice of simple control settings, with the schedule and mowing settings of both mowers easily adjusted by an intuitive 3.5-inch colour touchscreen display. Also fully connected, the mowers can also be optimised for remote control using the EGO Connect App. Adding the mower to the app offers full live status visibility of the mower via a cellular data connection – meaning the mower is always accessible, wherever you are in the world.

Andrew continues: “By using the EGO Connect app, users can see a map of their lawn, the mower’s live location and details of what areas have been covered so far. And for enhanced usability, the remote-control function in the app enables users to tell the robot mower to drive, park, pause or schedule its work time. Other features, such as changing the LED colour, weather features and software updates enable users to customise their mower and keep it up to date.”

The robot mowers also incorporate advanced sensing and monitoring capabilities, rain, lift and tilt sensors to protect the user, lawn and machine during operation; and GPS tracking to provide advanced warning and traceability in the event of theft.

The RM4000E retails at £2099 and the RM2000E retails at £1699.

For more information visit: https://egopowerplus.co.uk/products/robotic-mowers

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Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire

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Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire: Royal Jersey Golf Club has overcome a catastrophic fire, which destroyed much of the club’s greenkeeping buildings and equipment, with vital support from Reesink Turfcare, Toro, and local supplier JFTU. Now, with a fresh fleet of Toro machinery and new and improved facilities, the club’s future looks brighter than ever.

The fire, which broke out in the early hours of May 20th 2023, wiped out the club’s welfare building, workshop, and 15 Toro machines. As Course Manager, Allan Black, remembers: “I arrived at four in the morning to a disaster. It looked like a scene from a war film. Equipment wise, we’d lost everything required for cutting greens and approaches, plus six electric trucks and most of our tools.”

Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire

Royal Jersey GC recovers after devastating fire

Fortunately, some equipment was spared, which allowed Allan and his greenkeeping team to continue hand cutting greens and tees on foot while adjusting the height of the cut as needed, while they worked on a recovery plan. But being the start of the season, they had to act fast.

“I contacted Andy Brown at Toro, who put me in touch with Jon Cole, Reesink’s Divisional Business Manager,” Allan explains. “With the help of John Renouf, General Manager at JFTU, they put together a plan for renewing the fleet. 

“Jon reassured me Reesink could quickly source two Workman utility vehicles and a Toro Greensmaster 3400. It was a huge relief because now we could get around the course and maintain our greens.”

By August 2023, the club had received six Toro Workman GTX vehicles. Over the next 12 months, Reesink delivered a Greensmaster 3250, five Greensmaster Flex 1021 walk-behind greens mowers, and three Toro Greensmaster TriFlex 3420 hybrid greensmowers, enabling the club to rebuild its course maintenance capabilities.

“Reesink did all this while supporting Royal Liverpool in the build up to The Open and against a machinery backlog and long lead times,” Allan continues. “Without their support, the club would have struggled and we might have had to shut the course. We couldn’t be more grateful for Reesink, Toro, and JFTU.”

Allan is feeling optimistic about the future. “We’re now back to a full fleet,” he says. “Three mowers are still at JFTU, awaiting transfer to our new mower sheds, which will be ready by the end of March. Once complete, we’ll see staff morale soar and our 1000-plus members will see that reflected in the course.

“It goes to show that even the most dire circumstances can turn around and bring people together. Ultimately, our club, members, and partners like Reesink and JFTU are closer now than ever,” Allan concludes. 

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Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

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Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation: Keeping UK sports fields in pristine condition is no easy feat, but Landscape Watering Systems Limited is making it simpler and more efficient than ever. As one of the UK’s leading distributors of Rain Bird irrigation products, the company is bringing the latest in smart irrigation technology to the nation’s sporting arenas — delivering next-level performance, precision, and sustainability.

At the heart of this offering is a suite of cutting-edge Rain Bird products: the IVM (Integrated Valve Module) control system, the powerful 11000 Series Rotors, and the intuitive IQ4 Central Control platform. Together, these technologies are setting a new benchmark for irrigation management on sports turf.

Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

Revolutionising Sports Turf Irrigation

A Smarter Approach to Irrigation

Simon Edginton, Director at Landscape Watering Systems Limited, believes these innovations come at the perfect time for the UK’s sports turf sector.

“We are committed to providing UK sports facilities with the most advanced tools to ensure optimal playing conditions,” Edginton explains. “Rain Bird’s IVM, 11000 Series, and IQ4 represent a significant leap forward, offering the precision, efficiency, and ease of management that turf professionals need to keep fields at their best.”

The Technology Making It Happen

Rain Bird IVM – Integrated Valve Module
At the core of this modernisation is the IVM system, which replaces traditional decoders in 2-wire systems with a “smart solenoid” that communicates directly with the controller. This streamlined design simplifies installation, lowers material and labour costs, and delivers real-time diagnostics — a major asset when fast troubleshooting is essential. With its increased reliability and responsiveness, the IVM helps groundskeepers maintain consistent, high-quality pitch conditions.

Rain Bird 11000 Series Rotors – Built for Performance
Designed specifically for sports fields and large turf areas, the 11000 Series rotors deliver powerful, even coverage with a throw radius of up to 32 metres. Their robust build ensures long-term durability, while the minimal exposed surface reduces interference during play. Fewer heads are required thanks to their wide coverage, translating into cost savings on installation and maintenance.

Rain Bird IQ4 Central Control – Control at Your Fingertips
The IQ4 platform offers grounds teams a comprehensive control centre for their irrigation operations. With weather-based scheduling, evapotranspiration (ET) adjustments, remote access, and detailed reporting, IQ4 enables precise and proactive water management. Its user-friendly interface puts full system visibility in the hands of groundskeepers, helping them make informed decisions quickly — whether managing a single pitch or an entire complex.

Why It Matters for Sports Facilities

These new technologies aren’t just about saving time and water — they’re about raising the standard of sports field care. Facilities can expect a wide range of benefits, including:

  • Superior Turf Health: Precision irrigation ensures even watering, promoting vigorous, resilient grass that can withstand intense play.
  • Water Conservation: Smart controls and efficient hardware reduce waste and align with sustainability targets.
  • Lower Maintenance: Fewer components, streamlined troubleshooting, and robust design all help minimise downtime.
  • Remote Oversight: With IQ4, irrigation schedules can be monitored and adjusted from anywhere — a game-changer for complex sites.
  • Cost Effectiveness: Reduced water usage, lower installation costs, and fewer maintenance demands result in long-term savings.

A Trusted Partner for Irrigation Excellence

With decades of industry expertise, Landscape Watering Systems Limited continues to support turf professionals with innovative products and hands-on support. As UK sports venues face increasing pressure to improve efficiency and environmental performance, the company’s latest offerings provide a powerful edge.

About Landscape Watering Systems Limited
Landscape Watering Systems Limited is a leading UK distributor of professional irrigation products. Serving the sports turf, landscape, and amenity sectors, the company is known for its technical expertise and commitment to delivering tailored solutions that meet the evolving needs of grounds professionals.

About Rain Bird Corporation
Founded in 1933, Rain Bird Corporation is a global leader in irrigation systems. With a strong focus on The Intelligent Use of Water™, Rain Bird designs products that conserve water while promoting healthier environments in landscapes, agriculture, and public spaces around the world.

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