Tag Archive for: Science

Record-Breaking Turf Science Live 2025

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Record-Breaking Turf Science Live 2025: Turf Science Live 2025 drew record attendance in Ireland and strong engagement in Scotland, underlining the continued demand for practical, research-led learning in turf management.

Organised by ICL and Syngenta, the series brought together turf professionals to explore the latest research and technology. Held at Carton House and Fairmont St Andrews, delegates rotated through technical stations covering precision spray application, precision nutrition, adapting disease control to a changing climate, building fertilisers for the future, and the role of biostimulants in turf management.

Record-Breaking Turf Science Live 2025

Record-Breaking Turf Science Live 2025

Reflecting on this year’s events, Colman Warde, Country Manager for ICL in Ireland, said: “Turf Science Live is about creating a learning environment where turf professionals can see new technologies and innovations in practice and ask questions directly to the people behind them. The feedback has been outstanding again this year, and it is clear that events like these help greenkeepers and grounds teams take away practical knowledge they can apply straight away.”

A highlight of the St Andrews event was a presentation from The R&A on Championship Agronomy, giving attendees a rare insight into how world-class playing surfaces are prepared and maintained for major tournaments.

Delegates represented every level of the industry, from apprentices and assistant greenkeepers through to course managers, superintendents, agronomists, and head grounds staff. The mix of practical experience and perspective added to the open discussion and knowledge-sharing across both events.

Sarah Hughes, Business Manager at Syngenta, noted: “At Turf Science Live we focused on two key areas for turf managers: precision spray application and adapting disease control to a changing climate. From practical sprayer set-up and new nozzle technology to strategies for managing turf health under more unpredictable weather patterns, the sessions showed how Syngenta research is being translated into real-world solutions.”

Neil Holger, Course Manager at Hamilton Golf Club, who attended the St Andrews event, said: “For me, the best thing about Turf Science Live is finding out what’s new and what’s coming, but also the networking. As course managers and greenkeepers we’re always busy, so it’s good to catch up, hear what others are doing, and speak to the experts. It’s always a worthwhile day out.”

With positive feedback from both venues, Turf Science Live will return in 2026, continuing to bring innovation and applied knowledge directly to turf professionals.

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

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

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Innovations and Solutions at Turf Science Live

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Innovations and Solutions at Turf Science Live: The recent Turf Science Live event, held at North Hants Golf Club in Fleet, Hampshire, brought together golf course mangers and turf managers for a day of immersive learning and networking. Organised by ICL and Syngenta, the event, now in its fifteenth year, has consistently provided valuable insights and practical knowledge in the field of turf management.

The event featured several interactive stations designed to tackle the key challenges faced by turf managers. Ed Carter, ICL Business Manager, highlighted the importance of these hands-on experiences, stating, “Turf Science Live showcases what ICL and Syngenta are developing in terms of research and development.  It provides a platform for customers to share their challenges and feedback, enabling us to explore potential solutions that can help them in their pursuit of performance.”

Innovations and Solutions at Turf Science Live

Innovations and Solutions at Turf Science Live

The stations covered a variety of topics, including moisture management, Dollar spot, organic fertilisers, and precision nutrition. Eric Chen, Syngenta Technical Manager for biologicals research, led a station focused on water management.

He underscored the importance of understanding effective irrigation practices, explaining, “With climate change, turf grass can lose a lot of water due to sun radiation and wind. However. over-irrigating can be just as detrimental as not irrigating at all. Our goal is to educate attendees on why, how, and when to apply wetting agents and new technologies for effective water resource utilisation.”

The event provided a platform for industry professionals to discuss the latest developments in turf management. Dr Andy Owen, International Technical Manager for ICL, presented on the benefits and considerations of soil organic matter, the sustainability of organic fertilisers and their performance and marketing strategies.

Phil Collinson, Sales & Business Development Manager emphasised the importance of precision nutrition and showcased ICL’s latest research and development advancements in fertiliser and application technology, aimed at helping end users achieve optimal results.

Another highlight was the station on Dollar spot, a fungal disease increasingly affecting golf courses due to changing weather patterns. Sean Loakes, Technical Manager for Syngenta, shared his expertise on managing the disease, stating, “Dollar spot is on the rise, and our trials this year have focused on how we can control it. It’s really valuable to discuss these challenges face-to-face with turf managers, hearing their concerns and sharing solutions.”

Attendee Jack McKay from Wickham Golf Club found the sessions particularly useful, saying, “I came because I was looking for some education on ICL and Syngenta products, but also to network and meet other people. The Dollar spot station stood out for me. It was good to find out a few different ways of attacking the problem and brainstorming ideas.”

Kevin Glazier of Pine Ridge Golf Club echoed this sentiment, appreciating the opportunity to stay ahead of industry trends. “I came to see where the future of greenkeeping is going and what new products are on the horizon. Just yesterday, I had some Dollar spot appear on my greens, so that station was very helpful in terms of understanding how to manage it.”

Stefan Carter from Wentworth Golf Club found the organic fertiliser station beneficial, “I very much enjoyed listening to Andy Owen talking about organic fertilisers; he is someone I could listen to for hours, so it was good to get that insight and pick up some tricks and tips.”

The networking aspect of Turf Science Live was equally valuable. Barry West from Royal Winchester Golf Club appreciated the interactive format, noting, “Turf Science Live is always engaging, interactive, and excellent for career development. Everyone has been really enthusiastic about the topics, and it’s great to see both new and familiar faces.”

Sarah Hughes, Syngenta Business Manager Turf & Landscape, summed up the event’s success, saying, “It has been a fantastic day with a lot of pertinent discussion around some hot topics. The feedback has been excellent, and it encourages us to continue these events.”

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

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

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

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Turf Science Live 2024 at North Hants GC

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Turf Science Live 2024 at North Hants GC: ICL and Syngenta are pleased to announce the Turf Science Live 2024 event, scheduled to take place at North Hants Golf Club, Minley Road, Fleet, Hampshire, GU51 1RF. This free-to-attend event offers valuable insights and strategies for golf course turf management from industry experts.

About Turf Science Live

Turf Science Live, created by ICL and Syngenta, is the premier event for those who want to improve their knowledge in golf course turf management. The event tackles the complex challenges faced by golf course turf managers, providing a excellent platform for enhancing turf management skills.

Turf Science Live 2024 at North Hants GC

Turf Science Live 2024 at North Hants GC

Who Should Attend?

The event is designed for all professionals in the turf management industry looking to stay at the forefront of the latest developments.

Event Highlights

Held at prestigious locations across the UK and Ireland, each Turf Science Live event offers a unique agenda filled with:

  • Insightful Sessions: Engage in expert-led discussions on the latest trends in turf science, technological breakthroughs, and sustainable practices.
  • Innovative Solutions: Explore the latest in golf turf management solutions designed to enhance the quality and resilience of your course.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow turf managers, industry leaders, and suppliers, fostering a community of collaboration and innovation.
  • Practical Demonstrations: Although this specific event will not feature practical demonstrations, previous sessions have included real-time demonstrations of new methodologies and technologies.

Why Attend?

Turf Science Live 2024 is an invaluable opportunity for professionals in the turf management industry to gain expert insights, discover innovative solutions, and network with peers. Attendees will leave with actionable knowledge to improve their turf management practices.

Registration

Don’t miss out on this essential event. For more information and to register, please visit Turf Science Live 2024.

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

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

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Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team

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Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) has announced that its research and development team has been strengthened by the appointment of Jack Taylor who joins as Turf Trials Technician.

Jack will be based at the Turf Science and Technology Centre at Great Dunmow in Essex. He will be assisting the research and development team – maintaining the trials site, carrying out scientific trials, collecting data, and helping to offer customers well-researched products combined with best-practice advice for their sites.

Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team

Origin Amenity Solutions Turf, Science & Technology Centre expands team

Jack has a background in the horticultural industry, including plant maintenance, propagation, and nursery management.  He will manage the OAS greenhouse, looking after a range of small-scale pot trials and analysing the data that is generated.

Jack has a passion for playing cricket as a wicketkeeper and coaches at a local level.

He comments, “I am excited to be working at Origin Amenity Solutions and I am looking forward to bringing my knowledge and experience to the team and developing my skills within the amenity research industry.”

The OAS Turf Science and Technology Centre operates at the leading edge of plant science and turf technology with a broad spectrum of products alongside integrated pest management and microbiology programmes.

At the state-of-the-art facility, Jack is joining a team of experienced agronomists, scientists, and turf specialists who combine cutting-edge research, expert knowledge, and advanced technology to develop and deliver the most effective turf management techniques.

From soil analysis and nutrient management to pest and disease control, OAS provide seasonal managed programmes designed to optimise turf health and maximise its aesthetic appeal.

OAS Research & Development Director, Geoff Fenn adds, “Our commitment to research and development sets us apart from the competition. We continuously invest in the latest equipment and techniques to stay at the forefront of turf science. I am delighted to welcome Jack to the team. In addition to his involvement with our research and consultation services, we offer training workshops to empower turf professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain and improve turf quality; Jack will be a core part of our delivery team.”

If you are interested in a career at Origin Amenity Solutions, please email recruitment@originukoperations.co.uk

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Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team

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Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team: Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) has announced the expansion of the Origin Turf Science and Technology Centre team and the promotion of one of its key people.

Angus Finlayson, who joined the Research & Development team in 2021 has been promoted to the Trials & Digital Platform Manager, splitting his time across 3 functions. Angus will be running research trials, collaborating on TurfKeeper’s digital advancements, and providing the software and hardware installation of CirrusPro™ within the OAS Irrigation team.

Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team

Origin Turf Science & Technology centre expands team

TurfKeeper is a web-based portal that gives turf industry professionals a fully integrated operations and management solution. The system is proving very popular with Turf and Business Managers alike as it provides complete control over staff management, task planning, machinery management, inventory control, chemical applications and budgeting.

Angus comments, “I am very excited to take on the position of Trials and Digital Platform Manager. This position provides me with the opportunity to merge my passion for research and technology, enabling me to contribute to the advancement of innovation and provide support in the ongoing technological initiatives within the group.”

With the CirrusPro™ irrigation control system, a course’s irrigation is literally in the hands of the Greenkeeper.  Users can securely adjust their irrigation settings from their Smart device, enabling them to make real-time updates from the office, on the course or at home — wherever they are, on any device.

Peter Robin, OAS’ Irrigation Product Manager adds, “CirrusPro goes beyond the limitations of other irrigation management systems, and I am delighted that Angus will be spending some of his time strengthening our team by installing CirrusPro™ for our customers.”

The company now has a vacancy for a full time Turf Trials Technician to be a part of the innovative research programme at OAS, getting involved in scientific trial work covering all aspects of the amenity industry. The successful applicant will assist with the maintenance, management, observation and recording of the site and the trials.

OAS is a leading force in the UK amenity industry, supplying products and solutions to turf management, amenity, and landscaping professionals. Their inhouse R&D Technology Centre supports their teams and provides advice on product selection, programming, application, and effectiveness and back this up, with soil analysis, weed, pest and disease identification, and water management.

Research & Development Director at OAS Geoff Fenn comments, “I am delighted for Angus. He has a natural aptitude for trials work and is enthusiastic to utilise his unique skillset to benefit the rest of the business. The appointment of a Turf Trials Technician to assist our team will enable him to develop and progress this for the benefit of OAS.”

For full details of this position or to apply please email a covering letter and your CV to recruitment@originukoperations.co.uk

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

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