Tag Archive for: One

Two ICL biostimulants prove better than one

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Two ICL biostimulants prove better than one: An ICL trial at St Andrews Links demonstrated that tank-mixing Vitalnova SMX with an H2Pro TriSmart programme significantly enhanced golf green turf quality and rootzone health, surpassing the improvements achieved by using TriSmart alone.

A trial conducted at St Andrews Links in 2022 illustrated the advantages of combining two proven technologies. Tank-mixing the seaweed biostimulant Vitalnova SMX with the non-microbial biostimulant surfactant H2Pro TriSmart programme yielded significant additional benefits. This research emphasised the capacity of the combined treatments to improve turf health, particularly during dry summer months.

Two ICL biostimulants prove better than one

Two ICL biostimulants prove better than one

The trial, employing a randomised, replicated, block design, was conducted on a Fescue-dominant golf green turf nursery underlain by a sandy rootzone. The study aimed to assess the benefits of incorporating Vitalnova SMX, a liquid biostimulant containing 10% Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed solids, into a TriSmart wetting agent programme (a product that also boasts proven biostimulant properties).

In the trial, plots treated only with TriSmart and untreated plots served as bases for statistical comparison. The trial was assessed every 2-3 weeks for turf quality, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and soil moisture content at two depths (38mm and 76mm). At the trial’s conclusion, soil samples were analysed for rootzone microbial content.

Over the course of seven monthly applications from March until August, the assessment results revealed that the H2Pro TriSmart-only programme significantly increased volumetric moisture content (VMC) at both depths, as well as achieving improvements in Turf Quality and NDVI compared to the untreated plots. Most notably, the addition of Vitalnova SMX to the H2Pro TriSmart programme further enhanced Turf Quality Scores, both early and late in the season, surpassing results from the TriSmart-only treatments.

In terms of rootzone microbial analysis, the TriSmart-only treated plots contained significantly greater total bacteria, total fungi, and total microbial biomass than the untreated control plots. The combination of TriSmart and SMX significantly increased microbial biomass and total fungi beyond the already enhanced TriSmart-only results.

Key findings from the trial include:

  • The H2Pro TriSmart-only programme resulted in a significant increase in Turf Quality, % VMC (to 38mm and 76mm), and NDVI.
  • Tank-mixing Vitalnova SMX with H2Pro TriSmart significantly boosted Turf Quality Score beyond that achieved with H2Pro TriSmart alone (but did not affect the % VMC).
  • Applications of H2Pro TriSmart and Vitalnova SMX combined also resulted in a notable increase in total fungi and total microbial biomass in the rootzone.

“Our primary objective was to demonstrate the efficacy of H2Pro TriSmart in managing soil moisture levels and reducing turf stress, and to explore how Vitalnova SMX could further enhance these benefits,” stated Dr Richard Collins, ICL’s International Technical Manager for Amega Sciences. “The results clearly demonstrate the advantages of integrating these products into a turf management programme, offering significant improvements in turf quality and rootzone health.”

Richard concluded, “This trial not only underscores the potential of these treatments to improve turf performance during critical stress periods but also opens avenues for further research into sustainable turf management practices.”

Discover a wealth of information on this and other insightful ICL trials by visiting the dedicated page on the ICL website.

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

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

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One week until SALTEX

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One week until SALTEX: Exhibitors are getting ready with just one week to go until SALTEX.

Visitors are guaranteed that a trip to the exhibition in Birmingham will introduce them to all the new additions and advancements in the industry including the latest cutting-edge electric machinery launches from leading suppliers.

One week until SALTEX

One week until SALTEX

Here’s a snapshot of what visitors can expect from some of the 400 brands in three halls, across two days, at one location.

For Kubota, SALTEX will provide the European launch platform for the next addition to its eco-friendly line-up, tightly under wraps until the show. And from EGO Power Plus, an exclusive viewing of its new-look PRO X range, set to launch in 2024, featuring what it classifies as a ‘trailblazing battery’ with charging technology specifically designed for professional and local authorities.

Reesink UK has chosen SALTEX to debut the industry’s first all-electric outfront rotary mower from Toro. The battery-powered Groundsmaster e3200 is joined by the Toro Workman MDX Lithium, also launching at the show.

Alastair Rowell, managing director of Reesink UK, says: “We’re delighted to introduce the latest electric technology to groundscare at SALTEX. Battery power is an integral part of the industry’s future and these are two crucial launches from Toro for the market.”

Kress will also be showcasing its new line of commercial-grade outdoor power equipment and revolutionary commercial 8-minute Cybersystem battery platform engineered to have the fastest re-charge of any commercial battery system. While Infinicut and its technical team will be on hand to demonstrate the newest additions to its innovative InfiniApp, including its new fleet management feature.

New machinery isn’t the only thing visitors can expect a preview of at SALTEX this year. Green Best will be unveiling new turf management products with its latest organo-mineral fertilisers developed for its Velvit range.

Concluding Geoff Webb, CEO of the GMA, organisers of SALTEX, says: “Getting up close and personal with the latest innovations on the market from our exhibitors is one of the many reasons visitors come to SALTEX year on year. Hearing from industry-leading experts about the latest developments in our Learning LIVE programme, receiving guidance on funding from the National Governing Bodies in attendance, or networking with some of the greatest in the business, are just a few of the others.”

There are plenty more exhibitors both new and returning to SALTEX to showcase the latest additions and advancements in their line-ups. Don’t pass up the opportunity to see them, register now for Europe’s largest and leading sports turf, amenities, and landscaping trade exhibition at Birmingham NEC on 1-2 November 2023 at: https://bit.ly/456l0dA

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SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows

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SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows: With over 80 percent of floor space taken at SALTEX 2023, and available space up by 20 percent compared to the 2022 show, visitors can be sure of two things this year: more exhibitors in one place than ever before and one of SALTEX’s biggest shows yet.

Sarah Cunningham, director of commercial and events at the Grounds Management Association, SALTEX event organisers, says: “Exhibitors are the heart of any show and SALTEX has always attracted a good mix of new and returning, young and established, small and big companies.

SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows

SALTEX set for one of their biggest shows

“The reason for that is, they know the visitors will come. And yes, the quantity will be there as it always is, over 8000 visitors last year, but the quality is too. Research has proved that the decision makers attend.”

Two of the latest signings are new and while welcoming new exhibitors to the show line-up is always exciting, it’s especially so when that exhibitor is from overseas. Joining over 20 international exhibitors already signed up to the show, Grupo Sanz is a Spanish-based power tool distributor who has identified SALTEX as the key exhibition to put its range in front of UK customers.

Sarah continues: “When an exhibitor is from overseas it shows how word of mouth about the benefits for exhibiting at and attending SALTEX travels. But not just that, it neatly places new and interesting products and brands from across Europe in front of the visitor.”

Also on board for the first time is Monty Miracle, who sells the patented cleaning product unlocking how outdoor spaces are cleaned in just minutes.

There are many brands returning, as expected from the success of the early-bird bookings – companies such as Reesink UK for example, who booked one of the largest stand spaces for 2023 following its success at the 2022 show.

Husqvarna will also be back and Jonathan Snowball, head of professional sales, marketing and services, had this to say about the repeat booking: “Husqvarna is very pleased to once again be exhibiting at SALTEX, an event we look forward to each year to connect with our customers and meet new people looking for new technologies to support their business. This year we will be showcasing our robotic solutions for sports turf and facilities. We also have new battery machinery with sophisticated charging solutions.”

For Syngenta, SALTEX provides the perfect platform to show its innovative solutions and the practical techniques to get the best performance from integrated management strategies, says Sarah Hughes, UK business manager: “SALTEX 2023 will see the first event launch of a new integrated insecticide and biological control total approach for leatherjacket and chafer grub soil pests.

“Visitors to the Syngenta stand can get a unique detailed understanding of how the products work together from technical specialists and researchers, along with the optimum way to put together more effective and reliable control strategies to counter one of the most complex challenges for turf and landscape management.” The event will also see more of the exciting Syngenta R&D biologicals and products designed for tree care and landscape management, on show for the first time in the UK.

The success of an exhibition can largely be determined by the quantity and quality of the exhibitors who attend, and with those parameters, SALTEX 2023 is a success already.

SALTEX takes place at Birmingham NEC on 1-2 November 2023. To guarantee a ticket to Europe’s largest and leading sports turf, amenities, and landscaping trade exhibition, register now at: https://bit.ly/456l0dA

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ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

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ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School: The grounds team at Bromsgrove School has chosen the Dennis ES-34R as its first ever battery-powered mower. 

Richard Hare has been the Head Groundsperson at the prestigious Bromsgrove School in Worcestershire for nearly a decade. In his time at the school Richard has overseen many changes and has produced some truly wonderful sports pitches.

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

Richard is embarking on another exciting chapter at Bromsgrove School as he starts to explore the world of battery-powered equipment.

“The school is committed to change and is pushing for sustainability in a massive way. As the grounds team, we are on a mission to do exactly the same,” he said. “Approximately, 99% of the gardening team’s equipment is already battery-powered and our aim as the grounds department is the same. It is slightly more difficult because the equipment is bigger, but the technology is advancing all the time.”

Richard has already taken the first steps towards replacing all his petrol mowers with electric ones, and it all started with a Dennis ES-34R rotary mower.

“I looked at a few other battery-powered mowers, but I think it was always going to be Dennis,” he said. “I’ve always been a big fan of the equipment from Dennis and SISIS. Personally, I think the two brands have the best machines on the market.

“We started by replacing our Dennis PRO 34R rotary mower for its electric equivalent – the ES-34R. I will say that I love the petrol PRO 34R’s – they are brilliant, but the ES-34R is on another level. It is by far the best mower I have ever used.”

The ES-34R is a 34″ (860mm) battery powered twin blade rotary mower using the latest lithium-ion battery technology. It is ideal for fine turf mowing and cleaning up operations in stadia and training facilities. Utilising the contra rotating hardened steel blades and low chute ensures maximum collection performance.

While allowing ground staff to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance and desired playing surface, the E-Series range will also help meet sustainability and environmental initiatives, minimise carbon footprint, emissions, running costs, HAV’s and noise without any range anxiety.

“For a 34-inch mower it is just incredible how easy you can manoeuvre it,” continued Richard. “With it being electric there are less things that can go wrong. We’ve never once had a maintenance issue with it, and we have used it virtually every day since we bought it. It has saved us money on maintenance costs as well.”

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

ES-34R is the one for Bromsgrove School

Richard also revealed that the ES-34R is just the start of the Dennis electric evolution as he intends on switching his other PRO 34R, and his two G860 and two FT510 cylinder mowers to their electric equivalents.

Oliver Baldi-Turner, a member of the grounds team at Bromsgrove School, provided further insight into how the Dennis ES-34R fits into the maintenance schedule.

“Predominantly, we use it on the cricket square during the summer and on the rugby pitches during the winter months. It is such a quick machine – we can cut a cricket square in both directions in 42 minutes and a rugby pitch in less than 4 hours.

“We can use the ES-34R for about 7 hours before it needs charging. It is such a quick charge too – we put it on charge while we are having lunch and by the time we are finished, it is pretty much fully charged.

“The ES-34R always provides an equally as good cut, if not a better cut, than most cylinder mowers. Also, it works like a vacuum, so it is picking all the debris up as well. It is a highly efficient mower, leaves a brilliant finish.”

For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit www.dennisuk.com

For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Dennis on Twitter and Instagram @DennisMowers and like the company’s Facebook page – www.facebook.com/DennisMowersUK.You can also view the latest Dennis videos by visiting www.youtube.com/DennisMowers

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

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Eight in one with the new Fortis mower

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Eight in one with the new Fortis mower: The new Fortis range of cylinder lawnmowers from Cobra delivers advanced lawn mower technology to bring a convenient lawncare solution with incredible cutting precision.

The range combines eight machines in one to give the ultimate package for creating picture perfect lawns, and are the first powered cylinder mowers to be launched by Cobra.

Eight in one with the new Fortis mower

Eight in one with the new Fortis mower

There are four mowers in the Fortis range. Starting with a compact 14” model that is powered by a Loncin petrol engine, and then the 17”, 20” and 25” all featuring Briggs & Stratton engines for extra power for larger lawns. They are all self-propelled and have a three-way drive facility, allowing the blades to be disengaged without having to stop the engine.

Fortis mowers all feature a six-blade precision ground cutting cylinder to give the finest, most precise cut possible. The height of cut can easily be adjusted too with variants as low as 6mm and ranging up to 30mm. The finishing touch to the perfect cut comes from the steel front roller giving an enhanced definition to the iconic lawn stripes.

Convenience and comfort have also been considered as the mowers have foam cushioned handles that fold down for easy transportation and compact storage.

What makes the Fortis machines the ultimate in lawncare however, is their ability to transform into seven other machines to ensure that lawns are immaculate and healthy. The Fortis six-bladed cassette can simply be removed and replaced with another accessory cassette in the range to switch its use. Other cartridges include:

  • Verticutter – lightly removes thatch build up with light, fine blades without penetrating the soil and by cutting vertically to increase turf density
  • Scarifier – more aggressive than the verticutter and can easy remove debris and dense thatch by penetrating the soil to encourages new growth
  • Dethatcher – will remove the densest layers of thatch and will collect twice as much material as the verticut cartridge. Its thick, wide spaced tines will penetrate the soil up to 6mm deep
  • Aerator – brakes up soil compaction as its blades slit the ground to allow extra air, moisture and nutrients to reach the grass roots. Ultimately, creating a healthier, thicker and more luscious lawn
  • Turf rake – powerful blades both lift thatch and thinly slice soil surface to ensure maximum water, air and nutrients can flow to the roots
  • Lawn brush – features rotating brushes that easily collects light debris such as fallen leaves, twigs, grass clippings or litter and places it in the collection box. It can also be used to remove dew and light rain from the lawn to prevent fungal diseases
  • 10-blade cassette – gives an even closer finish worthy of croquet, tennis lawns and bowling greens!

It’s not just the convenience of the cartridges that makes the Fortis range so special, the cutting ability is superb and incredible precise.
The cylinder mowers’ blades spiral around the cartridge, as such they cut with a scissor action, slicing instead of chopping like a rotary mower. This is better for the grass, as it has less impact and causes less trauma which in turn leads to healthier grass. The clean cut from a cylinder mower is less damaging for the plant and also helps prevent against diseases forming. Not only does this create healthy lawns, but it also gives crisply defined lines for a perfectly striped finish.

For further information about Cobra, please visit www.cobragarden.co.uk.

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