ICL trio work in sustainable approach

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ICL trio work in sustainable approach: The Course Manager at Hesketh Golf Club has revealed how three ICL products play a significant role in his sustainable approach to golf course management.

Peter McVicar has been the Course Manager at Hesketh Golf Club for fifteen years after initially learning his trade on the west coast of Scotland. In creating the majestic course at Hesketh, Peter has been committed to taking a sustainable approach to greenkeeping.

ICL trio work in sustainable approach

ICL trio work in sustainable approach

“It is no secret that over the years there have been less and less regulated products available for greenkeepers to use and there will be even less soon,” he said.

“We’ve not used a fungicide in over 12 years. Yes, we get a bit of disease every now and then, but we accept it, and the members are on-board with this approach too. Communication with them is so important because we need to tell them what we are doing and why we are doing it.”

As part of the sustainable approach, Peter relies on three ICL products in the form of H2Pro TriSmart wetting agent, Vitalnova Links biostimulant and Gronamic Golf 6-2-4 – an organo-mineral fertiliser.

He explained how these three products benefit the course.

“We apply Gronamic around March, which gives us a nice gentle boost at the start of the year without any excessive growth which we are keen to avoid – it just makes everything healthy. I like the fact it has a turf proven seaweed incorporated as well as a recycled phosphorus source in the form of struvite to help keep everything ticking over.

“Initially we just used TriSmart on the greens but based on the results we decided to roll that out to other areas such as tees, fairways and approaches, as well as the greens. The results have been especially impressive on the fairways, and we are managing to keep them healthy going into winter. We have good coverage, and the difference has been down to TriSmart.

“Last but certainly not least is Vitalnova Links which is a very special product in my eyes. It has the unique seaweed extract SMX combined with the carbohydrate based biostimulant Blade, which is two products we used to apply so to have that together in one formulation is very beneficial from both a cost and practicality point of view.

“These are all products that I like to always have in my arsenal,” continued Peter. “With price increases going up all the time you need to be using products that perform, and these ICL products do exactly that.”

Peter admits that taking the sustainable approach is not without its challenges and that the ever-changing weather conditions will continue to make life difficult. He believes it is imperative that greenkeepers start looking towards the future.

“Temperatures will continue to change, and we have to keep looking forward to both practises and products that can futureproof the course as much as possible,” he said. “I think with the research that is happening, particularly from companies like ICL, there will effective be solutions available.

ICL trio work in sustainable approach

ICL trio work in sustainable approach

“The good thing about ICL is that you always feel that they are on your side. You talk and you walk; you tell them what you are thinking, and they help you out along the way. Rob Ainscough (ICL Technical Area Sales Manager) knows our story and what we are trying to do.

“The relationship with Rob is very good – he is an ex-greenkeeper, and he has my respect. He takes the time to ensure that all the members of staff know exactly what the products do and why they are applying them. In turn we then relay that knowledge to our members.”

Please contact ICL on 01473 237100 or visit www.icl-sf.co.uk or www.icl-sf.ie if you are in Ireland.

For more news and insightful views, you can follow ICL on Twitter @ICL_Turf

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Smallest Loadall joins JCB line-up

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Smallest Loadall joins JCB line-up: JCB is introducing the 514-40, its smallest Loadall telescopic handler to date, with a height of just 1.8m and a width of 1.56m. However, the compact machine benefits from the largest operator’s cab in the class, sharing its core DNA with the world’s number one telehandler range.

  • Low maintenance 24.7hp (18.4 kW) diesel engine requires no DPF or DEF to meet Stage V
  • 82% shared JCB componentry ensures quality, ease of maintenance and maximum uptime
  • Full width cab is up to 200mm wider than competitors, delivering more operator space
  • Best-in-class lift capacity at full height is 12% higher than competitors
  • 17% increase in power-to-weight ratio over the previous generation 516-40
  • Increased manoeuvrability for the tightest working sites

JCB’s new Loadall 514-40 telescopic handler brings together more than 45 years of telehandler development to create the smallest overall package, with big machine comfort and capabilities.

Smallest Loadall joins JCB line-up

Smallest Loadall joins JCB line-up

At just 1.8m tall and 1.56m wide, the 514-40 has been designed to access the most confined sites. Small enough to fit through a 2m high doorway, the machine delivers unparalleled manoeuvrability with all-wheel steering, making it an ideal telehandler for working in and around the smallest of buildings and farm yards, as well as at farm supply businesses, and in commercial horticulture.

The telehandler is powered by a low maintenance 24.7hp (18.4 kW) diesel engine that meets the EU Stage V emissions standard without the need for a complex Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) or any diesel exhaust fluid, minimising operating costs for customers and simplifying operation.

This three-cylinder, 1.1-litre engine, which boasts 66.9Nm of torque, drives through a proven Bosch hydrostatic transmission to a two-speed Linde motor, delivering a maximum travel speed of 10mph (15km/h).

Permanent four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering give the 514-40 the all-terrain capabilities synonymous with JCB’s market-leading Loadall range.

The maximum lift capacity is 1,400kg, while maximum lift height is 4.0m, making this an ideal machine for numerous industry sectors; lift capacity at full reach is 525kg.

With an unladen weight of 2,695kg, the machine boasts a 17% higher power-to-weight ratio than the Loadall 516-40. However, the 514-40 newcomer can be transported on a lightweight 3.5-tonne trailer behind a 4×4 or a light commercial vehicle, making it easier, quicker and less expensive to move it between distant work locations.

The full width operator’s cab is 20% larger than the previous 516-40 and a full 200mm wider than competitor models to provide the operator with a comfortable working environment, while the extensive glazing delivers excellent visibility to all four corners.

The cab will be instantly familiar to operators of other Loadall models, with JCB’s intuitive ergonomic controls making the 514-40 one of the easiest machines to operate.

Standard features include a 50mm tow ball with 7-pin electrics, reversing alarm, road lights, the patented JCB load control system and JCB’s LiveLink Lite telematics system, while options include an LED work light package, and amber and green beacons with an orange seat belt, which can all be protected by JCB’s immobiliser Key Pad.

The 514-40 boasts a new lightweight tool carrier and is capable of working with floating forks or a 0.41cu m bucket, while double-acting auxiliary hydraulics make it possible to operate a range of JCB attachments, increasing the versatility of this compact machine. Customers can also choose between a range of industrial and turf-compatible tyres.

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Perennial launches Christmas appeal

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Perennial launches Christmas appeal: In the lead up to Christmas, Perennial, the charity helping people in horticulture, is launching an urgent appeal in response to the worst cost of living crisis seen in a generation. People in horticulture are on some of the lowest incomes in the UK and the impact of the crisis is being felt across the industry as we approach the festive period.  

The charity is calling for donations to support its services and prevent people in horticulture from struggling emotionally and financially this season and beyond.

Perennial launches Christmas appeal

Perennial launches Christmas appeal

The pressures of Christmas combined with the strain of increased energy bills, interest rates and food costs are cause for concern. Circumstances will worsen still when winter hits and freezing temperatures slow the pace of work, leaving people with less money.

In anticipation of higher calls to its helpline and demand for its services this winter, Peter Newman, Perennial’s Chief Executive says:

“After two years of pandemic and lockdowns, we emerged into 2022 only to encounter massive increases in energy costs along with hikes in interest rates and food costs. In the horticulture sector, where many are not well paid, people are under strain and we can see the evidence of this by the number of people contacting our helpline. We’re hearing from people on tight budgets, who are facing more than just a squeeze on their income. These are real people experiencing real difficulty. Worryingly, the worst is yet to come this winter when we must switch on our central heating, or not, as the case may be for some. Every year I am heartened by the generosity of our supporters. Please donate if you can.”

When a Hampshire-based landscaper called Perennial for help, its team at was able to talk through the situation and provide advice. He was struggling with significant business and personal debt and had suffered a mental health crisis. He says: “Perennial was there for me in my hour of need and may well have saved my life. It sounds dramatic, but their calm guidance at a time when my life was in turmoil massively helped me. I’m in a far better place now both financially and mentally. There’s a macho thing that you have to get on with it, but sometimes you just can’t, and you’ve got to share the load. I hope that my story will help others.”

This story echoes the lives of thousands of others who are also struggling.

You can help people in horticulture this season by making a donation online at justgiving.com/perennialchristmas2022

People in horticulture can call Perennial for support and advice on 0800 093 8543 or visit perennial.org.uk.

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Agrovista Amenity launches biodegradable tree guards

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Agrovista Amenity launches biodegradable tree guards: Agrovista Amenity has announced the launch of Tree Hugger™ Biodegradable Shelters – a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to plastic tree shelters or guards.

Made from organic cotton encapsulated in renewable pine tree rosin, the Tree Hugger™ Biodegradable Shelters have a minimum 5-year lifespan giving the tree valuable protection during its critical establishment period. They will completely biodegrade at the end of their lifespan meaning that the removal of single use plastic shelters is no longer required, saving time and money, and ultimately reducing the amount of plastic waste that is left in the environment.

Agrovista Amenity launches biodegradable tree guards

Agrovista Amenity launches biodegradable tree guards

The woven material structure provides strong protection against damage from grazing animals but is gentle on the plant offering little friction which could cause damage to the newly planted whip.

Agrovista Amenity has partnered with BMP Europe, the inventor and manufacturer of the Tree Hugger™, and will be exclusively distributing the product.

Commenting on the partnership and the product, Ed Smith, Landscape Team Manager for Agrovista Amenity, said:

“BMP Europe has a rich history in processing polymers and textile materials and has manufactured a product of the highest quality which meets all the criteria of a biodegradable guard. Our visions align – we have established a great partnership and we are looking forward to where we can take it.

“Plastic guards are further adding to a growing problem which is plastic pollution in the environment and there is a big movement towards sustainable planting.”

Agrovista Amenity launches biodegradable tree guards

Agrovista Amenity launches biodegradable tree guards

Tree Hugger™ Biodegradable Shelters are available in two different heights: 0.6m which protect against small browsing animals such as rabbits and 1.2m which protect against larger grazing animals such as deer. There is a choice of two ties – a releasable tie, which is nylon and can be recycled and reused, and a metal tie which will biodegrade. Furthermore, unique laser etching is available for company / customer logos.

Agrovista Amenity also distributes WhiptecBio tree and hedge guards which offer a smaller alternative to the Tree Hugger™ Biodegradable Shelters. The WhiptecBio guards are made from recycled material, are 100% sustainable, have an estimated lifespan of 2-4 growing seasons and do not require clips or ties.

A video introducing Tree Hugger™ Biodegradable Shelters can be viewed here.

More information on WhiptecBio tree and hedge guards can be viewed here.

For more information about Agrovista UK, visit www.agrovista.co.uk/amenity

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Master Greenkeeper dedicates success to memory of his mother

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Master Greenkeeper dedicates success to memory of his mother: The latest member of the British & International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) to attain Master Greenkeeper status has dedicated his success to the memory of his mother, who passed away just weeks before he achieved the certification.

David Perdisatt, course manager at Mullingar Golf Club in Ireland, said his mother, Marion, was a “massive supporter” of his career, making it bittersweet that he wasn’t able to tell her when he discovered he had achieved the highest accolade available to BIGGA members.

Master Greenkeeper dedicates success to memory of his mother

Master Greenkeeper dedicates success to memory of his mother

David, 41, said: “Becoming a Master Greenkeeper is a massive milestone in my career and the first person I would have told would have been my mother. She has been so supportive in my career but she passed away last month very unexpectedly, so it was a bittersweet moment.”

David has become just the second Master Greenkeeper based in Ireland and is the 88th to achieve the certification since 1991. The Master Greenkeeper Certificate is awarded to those members of BIGGA who have reached the highest standards of greenkeeping and golf course management.

An R&A Scholar, David has previously worked at Beechpark and Naas golf clubs and in 2016 was a finalist in the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Awards. He was also the first Irish greenkeeper to participate in the John Deere TPC Sawgrass Volunteer Programme.

Married to Fiona and a father of three, throughout his career David has gained plenty of tournament experience, having volunteered at the Singapore, Dutch and Irish Opens.

David said: “Opportunities to progress never present themselves, you have to go after them yourself and Master Greenkeeper is a process that validates everything you have done in your career. It’s a tough process but in any industry, if you are recognised as a master of your trade, that’s something to aspire to. I have lots of hopes and ambitions for the future and I think being a Master Greenkeeper might be pivotal for my career in the years to come.

“I want to thank BIGGA for everything they’ve done for my career. I lean on them, particularly through the education side. I’m always accessing the website and the resources on there and I just want to say a massive thank you for the opportunity to help progress my career with the Master Greenkeeper certificate.”

David will be presented with his Master Greenkeeper certification at the BIGGA Welcome Celebration, taking place on the opening evening of the BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition in January 2023. Registration for the event is free and for more information head to www.btme.org.uk

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