Tag Archive for: Agrovista

Agrovista Amenity Supports Eco-Friendly Roadside Restoration

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Agrovista Amenity Supports Eco-Friendly Roadside Restoration: Agrovista Amenity has played a pivotal role in one of the UK’s most sustainable highway planting projects, by supplying biodegradable alternatives for a large-scale landscaping effort led by Leicester City Council. The project, commissioned by Leicestershire County Council Highways, involved planting over 8,000 trees along a newly widened road, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and plastic-free solutions.

The project, led by Tony Mason, Trees and Woodlands Officer at Leicester City Council, ran from January to March this year. It focused on restoring and stabilising the roadside with native plants while reducing the environmental impact of such large-scale work.

Sustainable Solutions with Agrovista Amenity’s Expertise

Agrovista Amenity provided a comprehensive package of sustainable products, including Tree Hugger guards, jute mulch mats, bamboo pegs, and locally sourced whips. These materials were carefully chosen to align with the project’s environmental goals, particularly the commitment to avoiding plastic.

Ed Smith, Landscape and IVM Manager at Agrovista Amenity, explained the motivation behind using biodegradable alternatives: “When Tony approached me about the project and we discussed using biodegradable options, it just made sense. It’s counterproductive to make a positive environmental impact by planting trees and shrubs, only to spoil it with plastic shelters that eventually become unsightly and a disposal burden. Tree Hugger guards, for instance, offer a long-term, cost-effective solution without the need for removal, and they blend seamlessly into the natural landscape.”

The Tree Hugger guards, made from organic cotton substrate coated in FSC-certified pine rosin, are fully biodegradable and designed to last a minimum of five years. Manufactured in Accrington by BMP Tree Hugger, a company with over a century of experience in cotton processing, these guards not only protect young trees from browsing animals but also promote healthy growth. “The cotton material is breathable, reducing the ‘greenhouse effect’ associated with plastic, which can stress the plant,” Ed added.

In addition to the guards, biodegradable jute mulch mats were used for weed suppression, anchored with bamboo pegs. This approach eliminated the need for chemical weed control, further reducing the environmental impact. “We talk about environmental sustainability, and this project is a perfect example of what that looks like in practice. By preventing future problems, such as the costly removal of plastic guards, we’re ensuring that this is likely the most sustainable highway planting job conducted in the UK,” Ed said.

A Significant Environmental Impact

The decision to go plastic-free has had a considerable positive effect on the environment. By opting for biodegradable materials, the project has prevented approximately 700kg of plastic from being introduced into the environment—the equivalent of around 35,000 plastic bottles (330ml). This achievement underlines the importance of sustainable practices in large-scale landscaping projects.

Challenges and Successes

Tony Mason, reflecting on the project, said, “The roadwork alterations were completed two years ago, but the landscape scheme wasn’t finished. When we took on the project, we needed a reliable supplier who could provide everything we required, and Agrovista Amenity was able to meet all our needs. Their products arrived on time and in excellent condition, allowing us to start the planting work in mid-January. Given the scale of the project, working on 60-70 mph roads was a new challenge for our team, but with the right training, we completed the work by early March, and the client was really pleased with the results.”

Despite the scale and complexity of the project, the Leicester City Council team managed to keep the environmental impact low by minimising travel and conducting all planting work manually using wheelbarrows.

This project sets a benchmark for sustainable practices in highway landscaping, demonstrating that with the right approach and materials, significant environmental benefits can be achieved without compromising on quality or effectiveness.

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

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Agrovista Amenity Partners with Worcestershire FA

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Agrovista Amenity Partners with Worcestershire FA: Agrovista Amenity is proud to announce a new 12-month partnership with Worcestershire Football Association (FA) aimed at supporting the grassroots football community by providing comprehensive grass pitch care solutions.

As a recommended provider for all Worcestershire FA clubs and organisations, Agrovista Amenity will deliver a range of services designed to improve grass pitch care and maintenance. This includes detailed soil agronomy work, which involves testing soil content in Agrovista’s state-of-the-art laboratory. Based on these insights, tailored pitch care packages will be recommended to optimise turf health and pitch presentation.

Agrovista Amenity Partners with Worcestershire FA

Agrovista Amenity Partners with Worcestershire FA

Agrovista Amenity offers a wide array of expertise and products, including fertilisers, grass seed, and soil agronomy services. These resources are designed to address the unique needs of each pitch, ensuring that every club benefits from superior playing surfaces.

Jack Handsaker, the Lead Football Development Officer for Facilities and Partnerships at Worcestershire FA, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “I am delighted to work with Agrovista to further enhance our offering to improve Worcestershire’s grass pitches. Our clubs and organisations will benefit from the great products and services offered this season.”

Dan Hughes, Head of Commercial for Agrovista Amenity, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “Partnering with Worcestershire FA perfectly complements our #ForOurSports campaign, reflecting our dedication to supporting our customers at every stage. This collaboration is focused on improving football pitch standards throughout the county, ensuring clubs have access to top-quality agronomic advice and products for their players and communities.”

Worcestershire FA’s Chief Operating Officer, Ollie Williams, emphasised the strategic importance of partnering with local companies: “We want to work with Worcestershire companies to support Worcestershire football. This is a key part of our new 4-year strategy for 2024-28, and we would love to hear from organisations who can contribute to the growth and development of local football.”

Through this partnership, Agrovista Amenity and Worcestershire FA are committed to driving the growth of grassroots football by ensuring that clubs have the resources and support they need to maintain outstanding playing surfaces.

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

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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Agrovista Amenity to debut at GroundsFest

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Agrovista Amenity to debut at GroundsFest: Agrovista Amenity has announced that it will be exhibiting at GroundsFest 2024. Following the resounding success of the event’s debut last year, the company is eager to showcase its innovative and sustainable products to a broader audience.

Agrovista Amenity offers a wide range of products designed to meet the needs of professionals across the industry.

Agrovista Amenity to debut at GroundsFest

Agrovista Amenity to debut at GroundsFest

Visitors to GroundsFest can find Agrovista Amenity at stand L151 in the Landscape Zone. This dedicated area highlights the latest outdoor environment technologies and innovations, making it a must-visit for landscape architects, garden designers, contractors, and other professionals in the industry.

At GroundsFest, Agrovista Amenity will focus on showcasing several key products, including:

Tree and hedge planting range: As exclusive distributors of Tree Hugger and WhiptecBio guards, Agrovista is committed to providing affordable and sustainable tree, hedge, shrub, and vine guards that are completely plastic-free, eliminating the need for collection and disposal.

Planting sundries: Essential tools and materials for successful planting projects.

Nutrition: Solutions to support healthy plant growth and development.

Grass and wildflower seed: High-quality seeds for creating beautiful and sustainable landscapes.

Hard and soft landscaping supplies: Including reinforcement mesh and rubber grass mats.

Equipment and workwear: Durable and reliable products designed for the demands of landscaping professionals.

Agrovista Amenity is excited to be part of this dynamic event and looks forward to engaging with industry professionals, sharing their expertise, and demonstrating their cutting-edge products. Be sure to visit stand L151 in the Landscape Zone to discover how Agrovista Amenity can help you achieve your landscaping goals with sustainable and effective solutions.

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

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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Agrovista Amenity Partners with Perennial

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Agrovista Amenity Partners with Perennial: Agrovista Amenity is thrilled to announce its partnership with Perennial, the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting those who work with grass, trees, flowers, or plants.

This collaboration aligns perfectly with Mental Health Awareness Week, running from Monday, 13 May to Sunday, 19 May, underlining the importance of mental health support within the sector.

Agrovista Amenity Partners with Perennial

Agrovista Amenity Partners with Perennial

Commenting on the partnership, Perennial’s Corporate Partnership Manager, Phil Swainston, said: “We’re thrilled to have Agrovista onboard as a Perennial Partner. Their continued support for the amenity sector, as showcased in their fantastic #ForOurSports campaign, is truly inspiring. Their proactive and dedicated approach to customer support deeply resonates with us at Perennial. Together, we look forward to making a significant impact in the industry.”

Perennial is the UK’s sole charity supporting all those working in the horticultural community, as well as those who have retired, who dedicate their passion, time, and energy to keeping Britain beautiful. Established 185 years ago, Perennial provides a lifeline to individuals and families in horticulture facing a wide range of challenges. The ultimate aim is for everyone to know that Perennial is there for them. That not only is there free, tailored one-to-one confidential support on hand when needed, but that everyone can access the free advice and information available 24/7 online, covering topics such as physical and mental health issues, bereavement, relationship breakdowns, career progression, as well as impartial money management. By offering the right information and support at the time it is needed, the charity aims to help build better lives for all those within the horticultural industry.

Agrovista Amenity’s #ForOurSports campaign symbolises the company’s commitment to standing by its customers every step of the way, while also celebrating the dedication of individuals in the amenity sector. Over the past two years, the campaign has flourished through various initiatives, including branded vehicles, community events, industry award sponsorships, and support for local charities.

Jodie Champion, Head of Marketing for Agrovista, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Through the #ForOurSports campaign, we aim to demonstrate our support for our customers and our determination to tackle future challenges alongside them.”

This partnership is not just about financial contributions. Agrovista Amenity is also committed to raising awareness about Perennial’s free and confidential helpline. With the company’s extensive marketing reach and local amenity teams, customers can be informed that help is readily available should they ever need it.

“We are inspired by the remarkable work that Perennial does to support the industry,” continued Jodie. “By joining forces with them, we hope to highlight that there is compassionate assistance available for those who need it.”

This collaboration between Agrovista Amenity and Perennial highlights a shared commitment to the well-being of professionals in the amenity sector, ensuring that support and resources are accessible when needed most. With Mental Health Awareness Week emphasising the importance of mental well-being, this partnership comes at a crucial time, reinforcing the message that help and support are always available for those who need it.

If you are in need of support, please visit www.perennial.org.uk or call the Perennial helpline on 0800 093 8543.

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

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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Agrovista Amenity continues partnership with The Tree Council

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Agrovista Amenity continues partnership with The Tree Council: Agrovista Amenity is excited to announce that it will be continuing its partnership with national environmental charity The Tree Council, pledging to sponsor the planting of more than a thousand trees. The trees will be planted over the next three years in community projects the length and breadth of the country. Collectively, as part of a team of green-hearted corporate partners, Agrovista Amenity will also support the establishment of fifty ‘Golden Orchards’, in celebration of The Tree Council’s 50th anniversary.

Commenting on the continued partnership, Ed Smith, Landscape Team Manager for Agrovista Amenity, said: “The Tree Council set an ambitious planting target to be achieved through community projects. As one of the Jubilee Partners, it was great to see this target accomplished and the huge amount of environmental, biodiversity and other eco-system benefits made.

Agrovista Amenity continues partnership with The Tree Council

Agrovista Amenity continues partnership with The Tree Council

“It was an easy decision for us to continue this support and be a Tree Partner going forward. We regularly join The Tree Council on planting days, and it is great to see different demographics and generations getting involved and recognising the opportunity to make a positive change to our environment. The Tree Council have always been forward thinking in terms of best practice, by using biodegradable guards, locally sourced stock and sharing ideas.”

The Tree Council’s Tree Partner programme brings businesses together to plant trees and enhance treescapes across the UK, improving the health, wellbeing and biodiversity of local areas. Community groups, schools and volunteer Tree Warden Networks (www.treecouncil.org.uk/tree-wardens) will apply for funding to deliver a community tree and hedgerow planting project in their areas during the tree planting season (November – March).

Agrovista Amenity and other Tree Partners will not only provide financial support to establish new trees and hedgerows. The tree-loving business teams will also donate hundreds of volunteer hours to help establish the new trees and hedgerows and to give essential aftercare during the drier summer months to ensure their survival.

Sara Lom, CEO, The Tree Council said: “We are delighted to continue working with Agrovista Amenity to do something truly wonderful for nature. Trees and hedgerows are heroes – they help tackle climate change, provide homes for thousands of species of precious wildlife, improve our health and wellbeing and so much more. By getting involved, Agrovista Amenity is helping to grow a greener, tree-filled future for all of us. We’re so grateful to them and all our Tree Partners.”

Launched to celebrate The Tree Council’s 50th anniversary, The Tree Council’s new Tree Partners programme will build on the successes of its Jubilee Partners who, between 2022 and the end of 2024, will have collectively supported the planting and care of 42,000 trees in communities across the UK, in celebration of The Queen’s Green Canopy.

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

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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