Tag Archive for: Turf

Discover Mansfield Sand’s Elite Sports Turf Solutions

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Discover Mansfield Sand’s Elite Sports Turf Solutions: Make your way to stand OSA260 at GroundsFest 2025 – taking place on 9 and 10 September at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire – to explore the latest in professional sand-based solutions from Mansfield Sand.

With a heritage spanning over 180 years, Mansfield Sand remains at the forefront of silica sand innovation. Their trusted range supports elite stadiums, top-level training grounds, championship golf courses, and high-performance equestrian venues across the UK.

Discover Mansfield Sand’s Elite Sports Turf Solutions

Discover Mansfield Sand’s Elite Sports Turf Solutions

At this year’s event, their team of specialists will be on hand to showcase how their products can strengthen, support, and transform natural sports surfaces. Key solutions on display will include:

Reinforced Rootzones

Designed for high-performance, natural turf surfaces that demand durability and year-round usability. These expertly engineered products improve pitch stability and drainage while maintaining consistency throughout the surface. Options include:

Fibre Reinforced Rootzone – polypropylene fibre-reinforced for enhanced strength.

Fibrelastic Rootzone – combines polypropylene and flexible Elastane fibres for resilience and recovery.

Fibresand – ideal where turf has suffered wear and tear from winter usage.

Sand Soil Rootzones

Blended using only premium screened topsoil and Mansil 40 Silica Sand, these mixes are perfect for construction or renovation – providing a reliable, high-performance start for any project.

Sand Compost Rootzones

A carefully developed mix of sand and organic material, helping turf retain nutrients and moisture while boosting drought tolerance and resilience.

Top Dressing

A fine turf essential, Mansfield Sand’s sterilised, stone-free top dressing is made from the company’s own silica sand and high-quality soils. Custom blends are also available – including options with soil amendments.

Mansil Silica Sand Sports Range

Extracted from the Two Oaks Quarry in Mansfield, the Mansil range supports a wide variety of surfaces – from golf courses and bowling greens to winter sports pitches and amenity areas.

Don’t miss your chance to see how Mansfield Sand’s market-leading range can help you raise the standard of your sports surfaces. Visit stand OSA260 at GroundsFest 2025.

For more information visit www.mansfield-sand.co.uk

You can also follow the company on Twitter – @MansfieldSand and Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/MansfieldSandSportSurfaces/

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The MENA Turf Show to Launch in Dubai

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The MENA Turf Show to Launch in Dubai: The turf industry is set to converge in the Middle East as The MENA TURF SHOW launches on 17th April 2026 at the prestigious Park Hyatt Dubai. Supported by VIYA GOLF, and as the region’s first dedicated event for golf, sports turf, and landscaping innovation, the show will provide a vital platform for professionals to connect, discover new technologies, and share expertise. 

From golf course superintendents to sports venue managers and golf course architects, THE MENA TURF SHOW promises insights and solutions tailored to the unique challenges of the Middle East’s climate. Attendees can look forward to expert-led sessions covering topics such as sustainable turf practices, sports field construction and maintenance, R&D agronomy insights and golf industry future trends.

The MENA Turf Show to Launch in Dubai

The MENA Turf Show to Launch in Dubai

“The Middle East is investing heavily in world-class golf courses, sports facilities, and green spaces,” said Nick Brown, Export Sales Manager at Campey Turf Care Systems. “The MENA TURF SHOW will serve as a vital hub for innovation and collaboration, helping industry leaders shape the future of turf management across the region.”

“Sustainability and innovation are key to managing turf in extreme climates,” said Babiker Khateeb – Commercial Director Polyclean Turf Division UAE. “The MENA TURF SHOW is the perfect platform to bring education that can transform how we care for sports surfaces and landscapes in this unique environment.”

THE MENA TURF SHOW has been made possible by the sponsorship of Campey Turf Care Systems and Polyclean Turf Division UAE, whose support underscores the importance of bringing cutting-edge turf solutions to the region.

Held at the scenic Park Hyatt Dubai at Dubai Creek Golf & Yachet Club, the event will blend cutting-edge technology with practical insights for maintaining high-quality turf and landscapes in extreme conditions. Further details on registration will be announced soon.

For updates,

• visit www.themenaturfshow.com or follow:
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/MiddleEastNorthAfricaTurfShow
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/themenaturfshow
• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-mena-turf-show
• X (Twitter): www.twitter.com/themenaturfshow

Connect. Discover. Grow. See you at The MENA Turf Show in Dubai on 17 April 2026.

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

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Ballybunion GC Enhances Turf Maintenance with Foley

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Ballybunion GC Enhances Turf Maintenance with Foley: Ballybunion Golf Club, located on the north-west coast of County Kerry, Ireland and steeped in history since its founding in 1893, is widely celebrated for its breathtaking coastal views and challenging yet rewarding links.

Over the years, the club has become a symbol of golfing perfection, attracting players from around the globe to experience its world-class courses. Continuing its tradition of excellence, Ballybunion recently acquired state-of-the-art Foley grinders, comprising a Accu-Pro 633 Accu-touch 3 control cylinder grinder with rear tail lift and an Accu Pro 673 bedknife grinder, to further elevate its turf maintenance standards.

Ballybunion GC Enhances Turf Maintenance with Foley

Ballybunion GC Enhances Turf Maintenance with Foley

The decision to invest in Foley grinders was driven by Ballybunion’s unwavering dedication to delivering immaculate playing conditions. With such a large fleet size in regular use, the advanced automated relief and spin options offered by Foley grinders ensure that the reel’s edges remain sharp for longer, improving efficiency and playability.

Speaking on the importance of this investment, Course Manager John Bambury remarked, “At Ballybunion, we pride ourselves on maintaining some of the finest greens in the world. Our new Foley grinders allow us to achieve a level of precision and consistency that aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence.”

Ian Robson, Managing Director of ProSportUK Ltd, distributor for Foley Company in the UK and Ireland stated. “We are delighted to have placed two of the latest Foley grinders into a prestigious club such as Ballybunion. We have had a relationship with the greens team at Ballybunion for many years after supplying and supporting the previous Neary grinders, and will continue to offer them assistance, whenever required going forward.

Ease of use and robust training were vital considerations in choosing Foley grinders. The intuitive design of the equipment provides Ballybunion’s maintenance team with the tools to keep the workflow going, while the thorough training ensures that team members can maximize the potential of this innovative technology.

The exceptional back-up service provided by Prosport UK and the Foley Company has been a key factor in this successful upgrade. According to John, “The support and service we’ve received have been outstanding. Being able to rely on Prosport UK and Foley Company helps us maintain the highest standards in turf management”

Foley Company is the world leader in professional reel and bed-knife grinders and delivers the most economical solution for all your spin and relief grinding needs. Designed for optimum operator safety and ease of use.

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Unlocking the power of seaweed: SMX difference for turf health

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Unlocking the power of seaweed: SMX difference for turf health: By ICL’s Henry Bechelet. A Greenkeeper’s Reality: The Battle Against Stress

You’ve been here before.

Unlocking the power of seaweed: SMX difference for turf health

Unlocking the power of seaweed: SMX difference for turf health

A long, dry spell stretches on, and the greens start showing signs of stress – wilting, thinning, roots struggling to reach deeper for moisture. Then,
just as relief comes in the form of rain, it brings a new challenge: soft, unpredictable surfaces, weakened turf, and patchy recovery.

In these moments, turf resilience isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s essential. Stronger roots mean faster recovery, better stress tolerance, and consistently high-quality playing surfaces. And for years, greenkeepers have turned to seaweed extracts to support plant health.

But here’s the thing: not all seaweed based biostimulants are the same. The difference isn’t just in the seaweed itself – it’s in how its powerful compounds are extracted.

Why SMX is Different: Science, Innovation, and Sustainability

ICL, in partnership with Acadian Seaplants – the world leader in seaweed technology – has developed SMX, a scientifically engineered seaweed biostimulant designed to
enhance turf performance from the roots up. With cutting-edge extraction methods, a commitment to sustainability, and proven results, SMX isn’t just another seaweed extract. It’s a smarter approach to turf management.

The Science Behind SMX: Why Extraction Matters

Not all seaweed extracts deliver the same results. For decades, seaweed has been used in turf management. But how it’s processed determines whether its most beneficial compounds reach the plant in a usable form.

There’s a common belief that cold-pressed seaweed is always superior. It’s a nice idea, but the reality is more complex. Research shows that different extraction
methods yield different benefits – some unlock higher levels of bioactive compounds than others.

Alkaline Extraction: A Proven Advantage

Independent trials, including those led by Dr. Andy Owen and the ICL team, have demonstrated that alkaline extracted seaweed can significantly enhance root length and volume – key factors in improving turf resilience.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Better root initiation – SMX helps roots establish faster and deeper, providing stronger anchorage and access to moisture.
  • Enhanced stress tolerance – Turf treated with SMX recovers more effectively from drought, wear, and disease.
  • Improved nutrient uptake – Healthier roots mean better absorption of essential nutrients, supporting long-term turf quality. It’s not about saying one method is always better than another – it’s about understanding what actually works in turf management. And SMX is backed by real-world trials.

What Sets SMX Apart?

Specialist expertise from Acadian Seaplants. Acadian Seaplants is a global leader in sustainable seaweed harvesting and extraction technology.

By partnering with Acadian, ICL combines world-class seaweed innovation with its own expertise in turf agronomy, ensuring SMX delivers real, measurable benefits.

Unlocking the power of seaweed: SMX difference for turf health

Unlocking the power of seaweed: SMX difference for turf health

Extraction that works for turf, not just for labels:

  • SMX’s alkaline extraction process enhances the availability of plant growth regulators and stress response compounds.
  • Trials confirm that SMX-treated turf recovers faster from drought, wear, and disease, helping greenkeepers maintain high performance playing surfaces.

Real-World Results, Proven by Science

Independent research shows that SMX:

  • Increases root initiation
  • Strengthens turf against environmental stress
  • Improves long-term resilience on golf courses, stadiums, and sports pitches.

Sustainable Innovation: The SMX Commitment

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a responsibility. Acadian Seaplants ensures every harvest is carried out responsibly, using satellite imaging and drone technology to monitor seaweed bed regrowth. This protects marine ecosystems while ensuring a continuous, high-quality supply of seaweed.

For greenkeepers, choosing SMX means choosing a product that supports turf health and respects the environment.

SMX: The Next Step in Turf Management

Greenkeeping isn’t just about managing grass – it’s about understanding how to give turf the best possible foundation to thrive.

With increasing environmental challenges, greenkeepers need proven, research-backed solutions – not just marketing claims. SMX is more than just another seaweed extract.

It’s the next step in root health, stress resilience, and sustainable turf management.

Are you ready for the SMX difference? Contact us to learn how ICL and Acadian Seaplants are setting new standards in turf management.

Seaton Carew Improves Turf Quality Thanks to Hunter

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Seaton Carew Improves Turf Quality Thanks to Hunter: Seaton Carew Golf Club, a historic championship course and the 10th oldest in England, has recently undergone a transformative upgrade with the installation of a state-of-the-art Hunter irrigation system, supplied by KAR UK.

Course Manager Tom Coulson, who took charge of Seaton Carew in 2020, has spent over 20 years in greenkeeping, driven by a passion that started as a junior golfer trying to improve his local course. Recognising Seaton Carew’s potential, Tom knew that with the right plan, the course could be elevated to an even higher standard.

Seaton Carew Improves Turf Quality Thanks to Hunter

Seaton Carew Improves Turf Quality Thanks to Hunter

However, one of the biggest hurdles standing in the way of that vision was an outdated irrigation system.

“It was immediately clear that one thing holding Seaton Carew back was the existing irrigation system, which was not fit for purpose,” Tom explained. “There was a 100% correlation between poor examples of turf and little to no irrigation coverage. For Seaton Carew to progress, it needed a fully functional modern irrigation system, especially now considering how busy golf courses are all the time.”

After a careful evaluation process and with guidance from KAR UK & Hunter, Seaton Carew selected the Hunter GT-885 sprinklers for its fairways, greens, and surrounds. This was installed alongside completely new main pipework and cabling. The club have implemented a phased in-house installation of I-20’s and GT885’s on tee boxes, with a 5-10 year plan to reconfigure, level, and irrigate them.

Additionally, grass pathways were enhanced with Hunter MP rotator sprinklers, allowing the club to gradually move away from the astroturf that previously lined the pathways.

Before any of this could be implemented, a new pump set was installed in 2022. Sized specifically for the new system, this pump set was integrated with the existing setup and laid the foundation for irrigation upgrades.

To ensure a smooth and efficient installation, Seaton Carew partnered with Arden Lea Irrigation, a company with an impressive track record of previous installations.

“Arden Lea was chosen because their previous client list was the ideal reference, but it was their honest communication and ability to phase the work while keeping the course fully functional for members that made them a perfect fit,” Tom noted.

The new Hunter system has already delivered significant improvements.

“The key benefit is having the ability to irrigate and control turf conditions across the course, rather than just in certain parts,” Tom explained. “Water is now applied more accurately, reducing waste and ensuring better turf health. The turf has responded superbly—recovery has been quicker, and the system is now used to prevent damage and aid divot recovery.”

The upgraded pipework has also resulted in a much higher flow capacity, reducing run times and allowing irrigation to take place during optimal conditions, such as the short, low-wind periods at night – a critical factor for a links course.

Additionally, the Hunter GT sprinklers have proven superior in real-world conditions, outperforming other systems by delivering a higher bulk water jet that carries through light winds to hit its target effectively.

KAR UK played a pivotal role in the project’s success, providing expert advice, technical support, and high-quality Hunter products from the outset.

“Our experience working with KAR UK was very positive,” Tom said. “Wesley Henshaw from KAR UK provided support from the very start, demonstrating the quality of the Hunter product even before any official agreement was made. The software training, database creation, and hardware management were all provided seamlessly, which made the entire process very free-flowing.”

“I would definitely recommend KAR UK to other golf clubs looking to improve their courses by upgrading their irrigation facility. The quality of the product, combined with their support throughout the process, makes them an excellent choice.”

With the new Hunter irrigation system fully operational and a phased plan in place for continued improvements, Seaton Carew Golf Club is well-positioned to maintain its status as one of the finest links courses on the east coast.

For more information, please visit www.karuk.com

You can also follow KAR UK on X and Instagram @KARUK_LTD for much more news, reviews and insightful views.

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

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