Tag Archive for: Grass

The Grass People’s Expert Tips for a Greener Winter Lawn

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The Grass People’s Expert Tips for a Greener Winter Lawn: As temperatures drop and frost sets in, many UK homeowners assume their lawns must go dormant until spring. But according to Chris McIlroy, Lawn Expert at The Grass People, “winter is not the end it’s the preparation stage”.

Their winter lawn-care products gives gardeners the right tools to keep lawns nourished, moss-free, and healthy all season long ensuring a strong, vibrant return in spring.

The Grass People’s Expert Tips for a Greener Winter Lawn

The Grass People’s Expert Tips for a Greener Winter Lawn

Step 1: Spread precisely don’t waste your effort

Even the best fertiliser underperforms if it’s applied unevenly. The Grass People’s range of professional-grade lawn spreaders ensures consistent, controlled application across lawns of any size. From lightweight handheld spreaders for smaller gardens to broadcast options for larger areas, even coverage means better results and no patchy regrowth.

“A spreader may seem simple, but it’s the secret to consistency,” says Chris McIlroy, Lawn Expert at The Grass People. “Every handful applied evenly saves you from patchy growth and wasted product.”

Step 2: Feed for the season, not the week

Winter lawncare is about slow, steady nourishment not quick fixes. The Grass People’s SLOW RELEASE: Autumn/Winter Fertiliser provides up to four months of feeding in a single treatment. With an NPK of 8-0-6 plus added magnesium and iron, it strengthens grass against frost and disease, helping roots stay active through the colder months.

Apply in late autumn while the soil is still workable to lock in nutrients before growth slows.“Our slow-release formulas mean fewer applications and less waste, ideal for time-poor gardeners who still want results,” says Chris McIlroy.

Step 3: Control moss while you feed

Moss thrives in damp, shaded lawns when grass weakens during winter. The SLOW RELEASE: Winter Feed & Moss Control takes a dual-action approach, feeding the grass while discouraging moss growth.
With an NPK of 5-0-8 and 9 % iron, it delivers colour, strength, and up to eight weeks of moss protection.

“Winter can be tough on lawns, but it doesn’t have to be the season of damage,” adds Chris McIlroy. “By feeding your lawn and keeping moss in check now, you’re setting yourself up for a healthier, greener spring.”

When to act

  • October – December: Apply Autumn/Winter Fertiliser to strengthen before frost.
  • January – March: Use Winter Feed & Moss Control to protect and maintain colour.
  • Year-round: Use spreaders for precision, for fertiliser, seed, or even grit salt in icy conditions.

Why it matters

A strong, nourished lawn over winter:

  • Prevents bare patches and moss invasion
  • Reduces disease risk and frost stress

Requires less renovation in spring

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Third of Brits now want artificial grass banned

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Third of Brits now want artificial grass banned: Artificial grass rose to popularity several years ago due to its cleanliness, consistently perfect aesthetic, and its ease to maintain. However, last year, data revealed that 24 per cent of people living in Britain would support a ban.

Just 12 months later, new statistics show this figure has now risen to 36 per cent in support of a full ban on the product – a rise of 50 per cent in just one year.

Third of Brits now want artificial grass banned

Third of Brits now want artificial grass banned

According to research from MyBuilder.com, the reliable way to hire tradespeople, more than a third of people living in the UK want to ban artificial grass. This explains the drop in popularity for the product, with data from the company itself showing enquiries for artificial grass installation were down 48 per cent year on year in 2023. Google data supports this finding, with searches for the product down 20 per cent since 2023 – and 50 percent since 2021.

The new statistics show that support for a ban is universal across all age groups and is consistent for both men and women. Geographically there are some variations, with Scottish capital Edinburgh showing the strongest support. In Edinburgh, more than half (53 per cent) of residents would support a full ban. Manchester was the least supportive – although 32 per cent still stated that they would like to see the product banned. Other results included:

  • Cardiff 41%
  • Liverpool 39%
  • Plymouth 39%
  • Leeds 39%
  • Southampton 38%
  • London 36%
  • Birmingham 36%

MyBuilder.com ran the research across its European territories, which also showed strong support for a ban. Perhaps unsurprisingly, green-focused Netherlands residents stated they would like a ban. Results across Europe included:

  • Data from the Netherlands showed that 43 per cent of residents support a ban
  • Data from France showed that 26 per cent of residents would support the ban
  • Data from Germany showed that 31 per cent of residents would support the ban
  • Data from Austria showed that 30 per cent of residents support a ban

James Lewis, expert gardener from MyBuilder.com, said widespread negativity in the press, and concerns about how artificial grass affects wildlife, has caused concerns with homeowners.

“After an extremely wet 2024, Brits are understandably really worried about flooding and the damage it can cause to both property and gardens. Artificial grass has received a fair amount of negativity for the potential it has to increase any flooding risk.

“We’d advise anyone considering installing it to look at all the pros and cons, as there are still many benefits to the product.”

To help those thinking about it decide, experts from MyBuilder.com have compiled a list of the advantages and disadvantages of installing an artificial lawn.

Pros

  1. Looks aesthetically pleasing all year round

No brown spots, bald patches, or muddy puddles here! There’s no denying that an  artificial lawn looks nice and maintains its appearance, whatever the weather.

  1. No need for watering

No live grass equals no need for watering in the summer. Saves you time, and money, off your monthly water bill. Also useful when the inevitable hosepipe ban comes into play.

  1. Low maintenance

No mowing, no watering, no reseeding – there’s no doubt that an artificial lawn is easier to look after than a natural one.

  1. Easy to clean

We all know the risk of unseen pet poo and urine on our lawns, but with an artificial lawn you can easily hose it down to keep it sparkly clean.

Cons 

  1. Cost to buy and install

Although once in place it may save you money, buying and installing your artificial lawn is likely to be a several thousand-pound cost. The average cost for installation in an average size garden is between £1,200 to £2,500.

  1. Impact on natural habitat

Removing natural grass undeniably has a negative effect on the environment, with the loss of habitat for bugs and wildlife.

  1. Drainage implications 

Although this varies depending on product and installation, an artificial lawn does not drain as well as a real one. This can cause issues in areas where flooding is a problem, such as in new build estates built on previous flood plains, or in areas close to bodies of water.

  1. Can get too hot

Artificial lawns can get too hot for little feet and paws, causing blistering and burns. Vets from Joii Pet Care have recently warned owners that artificial grass can be perilous for pets, and advised caution when allowing pets onto it.

If you’re considering a garden project, MyBuilder have a helpful cost guide at https://www.mybuilder.com/pricing-guides/garden-landscaping-cost

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The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

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The Grass Seed That Changed the Game: Managing the expansive grounds of Warwick Schools Foundation requires precision and dedication, and Grounds Manager Duncan Toon relies on trusted solutions to meet these demands.

Recently, he found that MM Tetra Sport grass seed has become an essential part of his maintenance toolkit; ensuring top tier playing conditions for the schools’ varied sports facilities.

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

Duncan has overseen the grounds for just over six years, looking after Warwick Preparatory School, Warwick Junior School, The Kingsley School, King’s High School, and Warwick Senior School. These sites cover eight hectares of natural grass, a 3G pitch, two hockey pitches (with plans for a third), eight netball/tennis courts, three cricket squares, and various other sports surfaces.

He has long relied on high-quality grass seed mixes – particularly MM50 and MM60 – which he praises for their consistency and strong performance. However, a recent shift in his approach has led to the adoption of MM Tetra Sport – a mixture by MM Seed that has quickly become his go-to choice.

“I’ve always been a big fan and a long-term user of MM50 and MM60 grass seed”, Duncan shares. “However, more recently, I started using Tetra Sport by MM Seed because I was interested in the fact that tetraploids have deeper roots.” The MM Tetra Sport mixture, consisting of Tetraploid Ryegrasses, is designed for overseeding high-quality sports fields and caught Duncan’s attention for its many benefits – including strong root growth and enhanced drought tolerance.

Duncan first applied MM Tetra Sport to the main rugby pitches after an extensive renovation process: “We sprayed off the main rugby pitches, heavily fraise mowed, and removed most of the organic matter from the surface. We then seeded at 50g per square metre with the Tetra Sport”, he explains. “The seed germinated within four days, even though only one of the pitches had automated irrigation. On the pitch without automated irrigation, we used travelling sprinklers, but we still achieved the same germination.”

The results exceeded Duncan’s expectations: “I was really surprised because after about four weeks, we had a root down to about four inches, and I was really impressed with that. The vigour of the sward is incredible. Even when all the fixtures have taken place over the weekend, I come in on a Monday and the pitches still look immaculate.”

Duncan credits the success of MM Tetra Sport to recommendations from both Matt Gresty of MM Seed and Mark Allen of Agrovista Amenity. Reflecting on the qualities of the mixture, Duncan said “it became apparent that the Tetra Sport seed had everything I was looking for: good, deep rooting, drought tolerance, and a hardier look. It stands up very well to extreme weather conditions.”

He has since expanded the use of MM Tetra Sport across multiple pitches: “We’ve overseeded the middle of four heavily used pitches, and again, we had fast germination – even in colder temperatures. With the dry weather we’ve experienced recently, we still saw germination very quickly. The stand-up and vigour are impressive, and you can just see it standing strong.”

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

The Grass Seed That Changed the Game

Maintaining a large and busy site means that time efficiency is critical for Duncan and his team. One of the key advantages of MM Tetra Sport is its drought tolerance, which reduces the need for frequent watering – an essential benefit for areas without automated irrigation systems. “Running travelling sprinklers takes a lot of time, and our schedule is very tight for watering,” Duncan explains. “If we can have a drought-tolerant plant that aligns with our schedule, it saves us a lot of time.”

Duncan now makes it a routine to overseed with MM Tetra Sport during half-term breaks. “MM50 and MM60 have always been reliable for me, but Tetra Sport has taken these particular sites to another level”, he adds.

His relationship with MM Seed and Agrovista Amenity has also played a crucial role: “I get very good support from both Matt Gresty and Mark Allen. Their guidance directs me in the right way, and it really helps,” he says.

For Duncan, the ultimate reward is more than just aesthetic appeal: “Presentation is key, but for me, it’s not just about how it looks; the best thing is to see a high-end game of sport played on a pitch performing to the best of its ability because we’ve produced a good surface.”

With MM Tetra Sport now firmly integrated into his maintenance regime, Duncan is confident that he has found the ideal solution for maintaining the exceptional standards of Warwick Schools Foundation.

For further information, please contact MM Sports Seed on 01386 791102 or visit the company’s website www.mm-seeds.co.uk.

You can also follow the company on Twitter/X: @MM_Seed.

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Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

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Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts: High-grass mowing has been the core competence of AS-Motor since 1959. AS-Motor customers rely on the high performance of the products and expect above-average quality, durability and service.

Meeting these demands is and remains the driving force of the high grass experts. What has changed – as part of the Ariens Company – are the opportunities to utilise additional technologies and expertise. AS-Motor will be presenting the first results of this new constellation at GaLaBau 2024.

Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

Innovations from the Swabian tall grass experts

The new AS 920 ESherpa 2 WD

The trend towards electrically powered mowers in the green sector cannot be overlooked.  At GaLaBau, AS-Motor is now presenting the first professional AS 920 ESherpa 2 WD high grass battery-powered ride-on mower. The new electric mower from the popular Sherpa family impresses above all with its battery exchange system. The electric drive and blade drive works very efficiently and ensures a professional mowing performance that is even better than that of a combustion engine. The 56V FusionCore battery system from Ariens not only offers above-average performance in all areas, but can also be used multiple times. The exchangeable batteries of the AS 920 ESherpa 2WD are compatible with the professional Zenith E and Arrow E zero-turn mowers from sister brand Ariens. This ensures optimum seasonal use and utilisation of the batteries.

The new AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC

For two and a half years now, numerous remote-controlled AS 1000 Ovis RC machines have been in use on steep slopes throughout Europe. The tracked flail mower with maximum mowing performance and extreme slope capability has become an integral part of the AS-Motor product range. At GaLaBau 2024, the tall grass experts will be presenting the next development stage of the mower, the AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC: with more RC functions for even greater user comfort. The new model differs from the basic model with a remote-controlled, electric cutting height adjustment with display, a remote-controlled, electromechanical blade clutch and quick release of hydrostats and brake.

New: The AS-Motor X-Act Track steering assistant

For the new mowing season, AS-Motor is offering a steering assistant for its remote-controlled tracked flail mowers AS 1000 Ovis RC (next generation) and AS 1000 Ovis Evo RC. With the new X-Act Track steering assistant from AS-Motor, the driver can save his concentration and dexterity for difficult mowing passages. On large areas with an easy to medium profile, the automatic steering system takes over precise steering. GPS signals, which are corrected to within a few centimetres by RTK correction data from fixed base stations, enable clean mowing lines without loss of cutting width and uncut areas. The result is a significantly higher area output and less operator fatigue.

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New grass trimmer and brush cutter from EGO

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New grass trimmer and brush cutter from EGO: Leading battery-powered outdoor power equipment specialist EGO Power Plus; is expanding its Pro X range with a new heavy-duty grass trimmer and brush cutter which are ideal for all-day use.

Both the STX4500 Pro X loop-handled grass trimmer and the BCX4500 Pro X bike-handled brush cutter boast a powerful 1.6KW motor and are an integral part of EGO’s new Pro X series. They are well-balanced for more comfortable all-day working and feature a 45cm cutting diameter with a 2.7mm line and rapid reload head.

New grass trimmer and brush cutter from EGO

New grass trimmer and brush cutter from EGO

Chris Buck, Product Manager at EGO, said: “Garden and groundscare professionals need heavier-duty electric tools that have the power to work all day and the durability to last for years. Our new Pro X range brings the benefits of battery power to a market segment that until now has had to rely on petrol tools – that is no longer the case.”

Both models come with a rear-geared motor and are compatible with all portable EGO ARC Lithium batteries. They feature a carbon fibre drive shaft that reduces weight while maintaining stability and strength. They are compatible with EGO’s metal brush cutter blades and its Rotocut attachment for the toughest of tasks.

Ease of operation and user comfort are assured through features such as the three working speed modes with a variable speed trigger allowing for maximum control for any task, adjustable harness points and tool-free handle adjustment.

The new STX4500 grass trimmer with loop handle is the ideal choice for landscapers, facilities managers and municipal users. EGO’s Rapid Reload head and 2.7mm twist line is simple to load with line when empty, reducing downtime in the field.

Alternatively, the BCX4500 brush cutter with ergonomic bike handles is perfectly balanced for extended use and enables the user to cover a wide area with ease. The controls are conveniently positioned on the handle and include both battery life and speed indicators.

Both tools are part of the new PRO X series of hard-wearing and powerful tools for professionals, which also includes a lawn mower, chainsaw, hedge trimmers and our next-generation PGX battery charging solution.

For more information on the new PRO X series from EGO, visit; www.egopowerplus.co.uk.

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