Tag Archive for: lawns

New home builders overlooking the value of quality lawns

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New home builders overlooking the value of quality lawns: For many years, home builders haven’t appreciated the value of good quality lawns, not only for the benefits that a lawn brings to the environment & personal well-being, but also the impact that a nice lawn has on the kerb appeal and saleability of a new home.

Most new homes are sold with a newly turfed lawn, but as the demand for affordable housing increases, and development land is at an all-time premium, lawns are shrinking! Analysis in 2023 estimated the average English garden space to be 255m2. New build homes are required to provide a minimum of 30m2 of amenity space, and thankfully, most garden areas are bigger, but the Turfgrass Growers Association estimates that the average size of a new-build lawn is just 55m2.

New home builders overlooking the value of quality lawns

New home builders overlooking the value of quality lawns

In addition to the shrinking size of new lawns, homebuilders are squeezing budgets so much, that landscapers are forced to do minimal preparation on, what are often small, enclosed garden plots, with poor drainage and reduced light from high fences. The low landscaping budget forces landscapers to use the cheapest turf available, often a “contractors’ grade”, rather than a good quality premium turf, from a reputable, accredited supplier.

Using a lower grade of turf, combined with poor ground conditions, and minimal preparation is inevitably going to result in a substandard lawn, and this common practice is putting people off natural grass, and all its benefits!

Regretfully, it is common for Landscape Architects to unwittingly, specify turf containing plastic net and for some landscapers to consciously chose it as a way of cheapening cost. The Turf Grass
Growers Association which represents most of the turf grown in the UK, has actively moved to ban plastic net by October 2026, and in the meantime, any turf containing plastic net will not meet the TGA specification. The industry should remain vigilant against the prospect of gardens being contaminated with unnecessary plastic. Natural turf has good ‘green’ credentials that should be promoted when considering the use of alternatives such as hard landscaping and in particular artificial grass.

Artificial turf is quickly going out of favour as the public become more environmentally aware. However, there are lots of other lawn alternatives being used because homeowners are frustrated with poor quality lawns. If a lawn is created with good quality turf, grown to the TGA standards, laid on a well-prepared bed of free draining topsoil, there are huge benefits to a natural lawn, including carbon sequestration, oxygen production, flood reduction and air cooling as well as the positive impacts on mental health and well-being for homeowners and their pets.

Increasing the lawn budget by £100-£150 for the typical 55m2 lawn could ensure that premium turf can be used, and that landscapers have the budget to complete the ground preparation to a good standard. The average price of a new home in the UK is reportedly £422,000, and even if that figure is skewered by some high-end homes, and premium locations, there should be enough in a developer’s margin to cover the additional cost. Even if the developer won’t pay, at least offer the new homeowner the option of a premium quality job at a fair additional cost.

Developers should also be ensuring groundworkers save the very best soil on site, to be reintroduced into gardens, and that soil is not contaminated with subsoil when excavated. There should be no excuse for bricks, tiles and other building materials to contaminate gardens. What’s the point in thorough site contamination investigations if tradesman contaminate the soil during the building process.

Of course, there will be many new home builders, landscape architects, groundworkers and tradesman that take all the right steps to ensure the best possible lawns, but it’s about time that the value of a good quality lawn was appreciated throughout the industry.

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Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

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Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns: If there’s a saying about the UK’s weather, it should be: “The only thing predictable about the weather is how unpredictable it is.” Right now, we’re experiencing a bewildering mix of sunshine, rain, and everything in between. This unpredictability makes planning outdoor activities, including gardening, quite challenging.

Despite the billions spent on weather forecasting, the reality often feels like a joke: “Rain, with showers at times, drying up to become wet later.” This sentiment resonates with millions of gardeners across the UK, who are left wondering, “Where are the droughts we were warned about?”

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

Navigating Unpredictable Weather and Its Impact on Lawns

For lawn enthusiasts, especially those with native bent and fescue grasses, the current weather is less of a hassle. These grasses don’t require annual overseeding. However, for those using ryegrasses, the constant rainfall can be a real nuisance. Seeds can become too wet, get washed away, and by the time the lawn looks decent, autumn is already here. Ryegrass might be popular for sales, but it brings its own set of challenges.

So, what can lawn owners do right now to manage their lawns amidst such unpredictable weather? Surprisingly, the answer is: not much. The ever-changing weather means that a heatwave could be just around the corner, and soon enough, you might have to start watering.

At this time of year, the focus should be on protecting your lawn. The sun can cause significant damage, so maintaining healthy grass is crucial. Here are some simple yet effective tips:

1. Mow Regularly: Frequent mowing with sharp blades reduces stress on your lawn. Consider using a robotic mower that can handle daily mowing, allowing you to relax and enjoy your garden.
2. Use Organic Fertilisers: Opt for organic options like True Grass to avoid scorching and promote healthy growth.
3. Water Wisely: If watering is necessary, do it at night so the plants can absorb the moisture more effectively.
4. Enjoy Your Lawn: If you’re not enjoying your lawn by now, it might be time to rethink your approach for next year.

Remember, during extreme weather, simplicity is key. Overworking your lawn can lead to more harm than good. Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be better prepared to handle whatever the weather throws your way. For further advice and products to keep your lawn in top shape, visit our website or contact our lawn care experts.

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Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition

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Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition: For professional arable farmer Michael Godfrey, investing in accurate, reliable and efficient spraying equipment that delivers excellent results is always important – regardless of whether he’s running his agricultural business, Godfrey Farms, or simply spraying the extensive lawns which surround the family home.

Michael, based near Bluntisham in Cambridgeshire, is very much “hands-on” in running the family farming business, so time – or lack of it – is his biggest challenge when it comes to maintaining the significant area of manicured lawn that makes up the bulk of his garden.

Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition

Acuspray keeps large lawns in tip-top condition

Michael says” Although I’d never describe myself as a professional groundsman, I am a keen gardener and with several hundred square meters of fine lawn to maintain, a traditional knapsack sprayer simply doesn’t offer the capacity or accuracy level I require.

“In the 1990’s I worked closely with Techneat Engineering to help them manufacture the Autocast V2, a broadcasting system for oilseed rape and cover crops that I originally designed, so I’m well aware of their reputation for manufacturing high quality machinery. When Techneat Technical Manager James English approached me to trial the companies’ Acuspray pedestrian sprayer, I was more than happy to work with them again.

“The machine is lightweight, quick to set up and easy to use featuring a unique wheel driven pump that produces an accurate, repeatable application rate for applying a wide range of liquid fertilisers, moss treatments and other turfcare products. Key design features include a 1m spray width boom and a 25L tank capacity, enough to cover 625m2 of lawn.

“Overall build quality on the Acuspray is excellent with non-drip nozzle valves and nozzle filters fitted as standard. Additional options include bout markers, a boom cover and a spray control lever. The machine is virtually noise-free, meaning I can use it early in the morning or in the evening without disturbing anyone in the house and the productivity, ease of use and accuracy of the Acuspray is far superior to a knapsack sprayer.

“There’ve been no maintenance issues since I acquired the Acuspray, it has a high level of build quality, it’s quiet, simple to operate and for a large garden like mine where frequent lawn treatments are required, it’s the perfect pedestrian sprayer” concludes Michael.

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Reviving waterlogged lawns

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Reviving waterlogged lawns: The Met Office has reported that the UK has experienced an average rainfall of 140.1mm making it the wettest July since 2009. These unexpected conditions have had a significant impact on the health of gardens and lawns across the country.

When there is excessive rainfall, lawns can become compacted and difficult to manage. Waterlogged soil can impede the flow of air, water, and nutrients which can harm the growth of grass roots and make them more susceptible to disease. Plants need oxygen to survive, and over-saturated soil lacks air pockets, which can suffocate grass roots and make them weaker. This can lead to additional problems, including nutrient deficiencies and pest infestations. Wet conditions can also promote the growth of fungi, such as mould, mildew, and rust, that can harm lawns, causing lasting damage. These diseases can spread quickly and cause unappealing discolouration and damage. Heavy rainfall can also wash away the top layer of soil exposing grass roots and causing erosion, which can result in uneven surfaces and unattractive bare patches across lawns.

Reviving waterlogged lawns

Reviving waterlogged lawns

To properly care for grass in these conditions, it is best to aerate soil to improve water flow. After it rains, wait for standing water to drain away, and sweep away any remaining puddles before aerating. The Billy Goat Plugr range are sturdy and powerful aerators, perfect for getting lawns back in shape before the winter chill sets in.

For smaller properties, the Billy Goat PL1803V Aerator is ideal. The model features reciprocating cam tines that propel the tool forward and spike the soil up to 7cm deep. The unit can aerate up to 2.000m2 per hour, is simple to operate, easy to steer without lifting and requires no add-on weights. It also features a folding handle to make compact transport and storage easy.

For those looking for a combination of productivity, operator comfort, and superior aeration results, the PL2501SPV Hydro-Drive model is the optimal choice. This model can aerate up to 4,000m2 per hour and allows for variable hole density. The EZ Drop™ tine system has a one-step tine engagement lever that quickly engages tines when pressed down or disengages tines when released. This ensures uninterrupted aeration even when there are obstacles in the path. Additionally, the model features “in-ground” steering for exceptional manoeuvrability, ergonomics, ease of turning, improved production, reduced downtime, and turf repair when compared to drum aerators. The PL2501SPV self-propelled aerator is powered by a 203cc Vanguard® engine.

Billy Goat products are available nationwide through Henton & Chattell’s dealer network. For more information and to see videos demonstrating their performance visit www.billygoat.co.uk.

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Pellenc is the way for Border Lawns

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Pellenc is the way for Border Lawns: Angus Roberts believes he has an opportunity to make his new business – Border Lawns, stand out from the competition and he claims that his recent investment in a range of Pellenc products will certainly help his cause.

Angus recently announced that he was stepping away from greenkeeping to set-up a new landscaping business called Border Lawns in Scotland. He admits to it being not without risk though, especially as he held a prominent position as the deputy course manager at the Roxburghe Hotel & Golf Course. However, with youth and experience on his side, it seems a logical decision – even more so when you refer to his already impressive CV.

Pellenc is the way for Border Lawns

Pellenc is the way for Border Lawns

Angus left school and began an apprenticeship at the Roxburghe in 2017 but he got his first taste of tournament preparation in 2016 when he volunteered to be part of the BIGGA Volunteer Support Team that helped at the British Masters in 2016.

A year later and he was awarded the prestigious Toro Young Student Greenkeeper of the Year. It was an incredible achievement for someone who had just a year’s full-time greenkeeping experience. Never one to rest on his laurels, Angus continued to impress and as well as achieving his level 3 qualification in greenkeeping, he also received successive promotions at the Roxburghe. However, he now feels the time is right to go it alone.

“I’ve branched out from greenkeeping to form Border Lawns and it is something I have been working on in my spare time for a while now,” said Angus. “The company specialises in lawn treatment and other general services such as mowing and hedge cutting. There is a lot of competition with other big franchise companies but after a lot of research, I do feel there is an opportunity for my company to stand out from the crowd.”

To do this, Angus believes in only using market leading equipment and it is for this reason that he had his heart set on the Pellenc range of battery-powered equipment.

A forerunner when it comes to lithium-ion technology, Pellenc has established itself as the number one choice in the ‘zero emission’ professional power tools market for the maintenance of urban and green-spaces.

Light, odourless, noise-free, with no starting problems and enough power to enable professional users to work for a full day on a single charge, it’s no wonder more and more professional users are turning to Pellenc. It is an attractive alternative to those who have, for several years, been relying on fuel-based machinery.

With an extensive product list available from Pellenc, Angus chose to invest in a whole new fleet consisting of chainsaws, blowers, hedge cutters, brushcutters pole saws, grass strimmers and mowers. All these products will be powered by 1200 and 1500 ultra-lithium batteries.

“I first saw the products being demonstrated by Agrovista Amenity when I was working at the golf course and I was taken aback,” he said. “I have used lots of petrol-powered machinery over the years and they have been great but there is an expense to keep them going, and you do get issues with them. As a company I would like to be environmentally sustainable and benefit from the long-term savings that can be achieved through battery-powered products.

As Angus says, not only will users see a huge amount of savings by eliminating the necessity of purchasing fuel but by using the Pellenc equipment, they will be contributing to protecting the environment by reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and noise pollution.

“The fact that they are so quiet and comfortable are huge benefits too,” continued Angus. “I can start work earlier in the morning because the equipment doesn’t disturb anyone, and I can work for longer periods because the machinery doesn’t scream my head off!

“The run time of the Pellenc equipment is so far ahead of all of the other electric products out there. They are waterproof with an IP54 rating too so I can work in any weather – which is vital. Another big benefit is that the batteries are recyclable.

Pellenc UK recently announced the launch of an industry leading four-year commercial warranty for all batteries and three-year warranty for all tools – something which further impressed Angus.

“The warranty is a great peace of mind,” he said. “Ultimately, the Pellenc equipment is powerful, reliable, environmentally friendly and keeps its worth for several years – it is a good investment in my opinion. Allan Wright from Agrovista Amenity, who supplied the equipment, has also been very helpful – that’s exactly what you need from a dealer.”

Pellenc products are exclusively distributed in the UK by Etesia UK.

For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit www.pellencuk.com

You can also follow Pellenc on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @PellencUK for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

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

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