IGFH News
Welcome to the IGFH blog. Here, you’ll find news of our latest magazine releases, interviews with some of the greenkeeping industry’s most influential names and businesses, thought-provoking discussions on trending topics, reviews of turf equipment, and general grounds and greenkeeping news.
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Integrated Weed Management Conference – 5th June 2025
The inaugural conference on Integrated Weed Management for the Amenity Sector is to be hosted by Kersten UK on Thursday 5th June in Birmingham’s Highbury Hall. Link to register The conference couldn’t be more prescient with the publishing of the National Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan in February and the
The Dennis ES-34R is a Hit at Haileybury
Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Haileybury School, has praised the Dennis ES-34R battery-powered rotary mower for its sustainability, quiet operation, and exceptional performance. Andy Richards, Grounds Manager at Haileybury School (centre), has praised the Dennis ES-34R battery-powered rotary mower. At the prestigious independent school in Hertfordshire, which boasts over 500
How to Find Work as a Greenkeeper or Groundsperson
If you’re looking for a job in greenkeeping or grounds maintenance, there are more ways to find work than just scrolling job boards. You’ll generally find a job faster if you cast your net wider. In this guide, we’re breaking down the main ways you can search and apply for
Howardson Group is pleased to welcome Darren McMahon as the new Head of Marketing
Darren’s career has spanned several industries, with roles at Aga-Rangemaster, Valor Fires, and, most recently, Viessmann, a family-owned German company where he spent 14 years leading UK marketing, training, and public affairs. His extensive background in high-quality product manufacturing and customer-focused marketing makes him a perfect fit for Howardson Group,
GroundsFest Academy Launches with Free Educational Day on Seed Science
The highly anticipated first GroundsFest Academy event is set to take place on May 13, 2025, marking the beginning of a new era in free, hands-on education. The first session, hosted in partnership with DLF, titled ‘Seed Science,’ will be held at DLF Seeds’ UK head office in Inkberrow, Worcestershire.
Reading FC Hosts Spring Masterclass for Wiltshire College Students
On March 27th, 2025, we ran the second-to-last masterclass of the academic year, this time with the team at Reading Football Club. This year’s sessions include some new practical elements, and the students got stuck into a full day of hands-on learning, split between the stadium and the training ground.
Register For the Fleet Line Markers Midlands Ground Maintenance Roadshow 2025
The Midlands Ground Maintenance Roadshow is back for 2025. This free event takes place at The Pavilion, Moor Lane, Birmingham, B6 7AA, on Tuesday, April 29, from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Free refreshments and a light lunch are provided. It’s a great chance to connect with others in the
Howardson Group Staff Take on National Three Peaks Challenge in Memory of Joe Emery
A team from Howardson Group is preparing to take on the formidable National Three Peaks Challenge in memory of their much-missed colleague, Joe Emery, who sadly passed away in July last year. The challenge will see the team scaling the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales within 24 hours,
All About Working in Europe from the UK
If you’re in turf management or groundskeeping, working in Europe can be a great way to gain international experience and learn new techniques in different working environments. Many European countries offer temporary work visas that allow UK citizens to live and work for a set period, with opportunities in golf
Hibernian FC Goes Greener with Dennis ES-860’s Sustainable Precision
Hibernian Football Club, celebrated as Scotland’s greenest football club, has made significant strides in sustainable grounds management with the purchase of the Dennis ES-860 battery-powered mower. Hibernian FC Goes Greener with Dennis ES-860’s Sustainable Precision. Head Groundsman Steven Thomas has found the ES-860 invaluable for its maintenance efficiency, environmental benefits,
Breadsall Priory Benefits from the SISIS Rotorake TM1000
Nestled on the edge of the picturesque Peak District, Breadsall Priory Golf & Country Club spans 300 acres of pristine parkland. This renowned club boasts two distinct 18-hole golf courses, including the Championship Priory Course, alongside a putting green and driving range. Breadsall Priory Benefits from the SISIS Rotorake TM1000.
IGFH Supports Young Talent at Melksham Oaks Careers Day
Melksham Oak Community School recently invited IGFH to take part in a mock interview session, offering Year 10 and Year 12 students a valuable opportunity to practice for future job applications. Bradley Tennant represented IGFH alongside 25 other professionals, seated at individual tables to conduct interviews with students on rotation
Meet the members, Rhys Norville
Rhys Norville, Commercial director at ReGen Amenity. What inspired you to pursue a career in turf? My love of sport, I enjoyed working outdoors and I loved playing golf and rugby. When I was offered a summer position as a greenkeeper at Newport Golf Club, it was perfect for me.
Howardson Group Bids Farewell to Retiring Roger Moore
After 17 years of outstanding service, Roger Moore has announced his retirement from the Howardson Group. Roger has been a familiar and respected figure within the company. Having joined as a Customer Manager, his role evolved to encompass sales, marketing, and customer support, making him an integral part of the
How the Proposed Youth Mobility Scheme Could Open Doors to Europe for UK Citizens
If you’re a greenkeeper in the UK and are keen to expand your career beyond British shores, the proposed youth mobility scheme could be exactly what you need to access jobs across Europe. If it’s approved, this scheme will allow Brits aged 18 to 30 to live and work in
All About the New Zealand Working Holiday Visa
The New Zealand Working Holiday Visa lets you live, work, and explore the country while gaining international experience. If you’re in turf management or groundskeeping, this visa gives you the chance to work in a new environment and learn different techniques, experiencing New Zealand’s sporting culture firsthand. The information in
All About the Australian Working Holiday Visa
The Australian Working Holiday Visa gives you the chance to live, work, and travel across Australia. If you’re in turf management or groundskeeping, this is an opportunity for you to gain international experience and explore new techniques in a different climate, all while enjoying everything Australia has to offer. Note:
A Hands-On Learning Experience at Our Third Annual Student Masterclass at The Caversham
On January 30th, we returned to The Caversham to host the third Masterclass of the academic year for the Level 2 Sports Turf Operative (Lantra) students at Wiltshire College & University Centre. After reviewing feedback from previous sessions, we refined our approach to make the day even more interactive. Our
It’s National Apprenticeship Week 2025: Here’s Why IGFH Supports Apprenticeships in Greenkeeping and Grounds Maintenance
National Apprenticeship Week promotes hands-on learning and professional development in entry-level roles across a range of industries, including greenkeeping and grounds management. Apprenticeships provide a direct pathway for new talent to build essential skills while working alongside experienced professionals, continuing to strengthen our industry with well-trained and knowledgeable individuals. At
SISIS Machines Transform Greens and Fairways at Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club
Maintaining a golf course as unique and picturesque as Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club demands equipment that delivers exceptional results with precision and reliability. SISIS Machines Transform Greens and Fairways at Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club. For Head Greenkeeper Stewart Fotheringham, the introduction of two SISIS machines—the Maxislit and the
Dennis Launches Revolutionary Multi Charger Hub for E-Series Mowers
Dennis has unveiled its latest advancement in sustainable technology: the Multi Charger Hub. This new product significantly enhances the efficiency and convenience of charging their acclaimed E-Series battery-powered mowers. Dennis Launches Revolutionary Multi Charger Hub for E-Series Mowers. The E-Series, known for its eco-friendly and high-performance battery-powered mowers, has already
A Look Back at BTME 2025
January is often a cold, wet and snowy month in the UK, but it also brings with it the great opportunity to attend the BTME (BIGGA Turf Management Exhibition). BIGGA describes the event as “the leading turf management exhibition in Europe”, and it is an event that is not to
Introducing the GroundsFest Academy: Free Education for the Industry
GroundsFest is proud to announce an exciting new initiative: the GroundsFest Academy, which has been designed to provide free education for anyone working in groundscare and landscaping. By reinvesting profits from GroundsFest back into the industry, the Academy aims to boost education, nurture talent, and help bridge critical skills gaps.
Edgmond Bowling Club Wins Best Kept Green in Shropshire 2024
Edgmond Bowling Club has been awarded the title of Best Kept Green in Shropshire 2024, a competition sponsored by leading turf maintenance brands Dennis and SISIS. The accolade marks a milestone for the club, which is also celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, and highlights the dedication and skill of
GroundsFest Education Fund Helps Student Land Career in Grounds Management
The GroundsFest Education Fund is already making a significant impact on the next generation of grounds management professionals, with several students already benefitting from its support. GroundsFest Education Fund Helps George Legg Land Career in Grounds Management. The most recent success story is George Legg, a student studying Sports Turf
IGFH Raises Men’s Health Awareness with Annual Two Balls One Stick Charity Event
On November 26, Cammeray Golf Club played host to the annual Two Balls One Stick charity golf event, organized by International Greenkeepers for Hire. The day brought together greenkeepers, golf enthusiasts, and sponsors for an 18-hole, two-ball ambrose competition, all in the name of men’s health. This free-to-attend event combined
Educating Tomorrow’s Turf Managers With Masterclass at Swindon Supermarine
In November 2024, Wiltshire College & University Centre hosted a hands-on masterclass for its Sports Turf students, supported by International Greenkeepers for Hire and Dennis Mowers. Held at Swindon Supermarine Football Club, the event gave Level 2 students the opportunity to refine their practical skills, essential for their end-point assessments.
Breaking Barriers As A Woman in Greenkeeping
Greenkeeping and grounds management are roles where women are still a rare sight. Jobs in turf management have been traditionally filled by men, requiring a combination of physical endurance and technical expertise that hasn’t historically been associated with women in the workplace. Daisy Thankfully, times are changing and these sexist,
Sports Turf & Greenkeeping Educationalists’ Summit
Working in education is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor, with each week bringing its own unique demands. One constant that stands out is the resilience of trainers and lecturers, who go above and beyond to ensure that qualifications are delivered to the highest standards. This dedication was celebrated at the
Visit Hunter Grinders at BTME
Hunter Grinders, part of the Howardson Group, is excited to announce its presence at BTME 2025, where the cutting-edge Jupiter ATI ‘All-in-One’ Grinder will be on display at Stand 217. Hunter Grinders, part of the Howardson Group, is excited to announce its presence at BTME 2025. The Jupiter ATI 6.0:
SISIS Brings High-Performance Machinery to BTME 2025
The SISIS team, part of the Howardson Group, is set to bring its cutting-edge turf maintenance machinery to BTME 2025. Located on Stand 252, SISIS will display a range of products designed to enhance turf care across golf courses, sports grounds, and more. The SISIS team, part of the Howardson
Dennis Mowers to Showcase Game-Changing Technology at BTME 2025
Dennis Mowers, part of the Howardson Group, will be at BTME 2025 in Harrogate this January, exhibiting their innovative range of turf maintenance machinery. Visit Stand 252 to see the latest advancements designed to deliver exceptional results for golf courses, bowling greens, cricket pitches, and more. Dennis Mowers to Showcase
Howardson Group Welcomes Tom Worthy as New Regional Sales Director
The Howardson Group is pleased to announce that Tom Worthy has joined the team as Regional Sales Director. Tom brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for the turf care industry. The Howardson Group is pleased to announce that Tom Worthy has joined the team as Regional Sales
SALTEX 2024 Remains a Must-Attend for Grounds Professionals
Bradley Tennant of International Greenkeepers for Hire recently attended SALTEX 2024, the UK’s leading event for the grounds management sector. Held at the NEC Birmingham, the two-day exhibition consistently attracts a diverse global audience, with insightful talks, demonstrations, and networking opportunities. Here, Bradley shares his experience as his fifth or
A unique experience with the Soudal Open 2025
The Soudal Open , the Belgian round of the DP World Tour , is the most prestigious golf tournament of the year in Belgium. Held every year on the magnificent Rinkven course , this event attracts the best international golfers and a passionate crowd. Since its first edition in 1910, Belgian golf has seen many stars
Brexit and UK work Visas
This has been a topic of conversation for a while but since Friday the 31st of January 2020 at 11:00 pm, there has been little to no change. After that hour we started to get trickles of information on how life outside of Europe for the UK would pan out. Now
Meet the team, Damien Curtis
Acting Operations and Support Manager – Liverpool City Council, NSW Why did you join the industry?To work with nature and the climatic conditions, have scope to always have a plan B. What’s the best thing you’ve learned during your career?2 years of flood-like weather, making servicing areas and delivering products very
Meet the team, Daniel Studders
Managing director – Ground Solutions Australia and whatever job I feel like doing out of the office. I tend to be out on the tools more than I should be. I love being in the trenches and getting out to site catching up with staff from other clubs Why did
Making Connections At The First Annual Turf Tech KRC Genk
IGFH’s Bradley Tennant recently attended the first annual Turf Tech event, held at KRC Genk in Belgium. Here, he shares his experience of the event, including the best way to get there from the UK, what he thought about the talks and presentations, and whether he’d attend again. Earlier this
Meet the Members, Alex Earle
Alex made the move from Australia to the UK to pursue his passion working at Wimbledon in London. Here, he shares his experience starting a new life overseas, getting messages from friends who have seen him on TV, and meeting The Princess of Wales. What inspired you to pursue a
Two Dennis ES-860’s Power Sustainable Maintenance at Roehampton Club
Roehampton Club, a prestigious multi-sports and social club in southwest London, has embraced sustainable practices with the introduction of two Dennis ES-860 battery-powered mowers. Head Groundsman Simon Bailey and the grounds team have welcomed these new additions, which have helped improve the club’s maintenance of its tennis grass courts and
SISIS Maxislit Boosts Turf Health at Ramsey Golf and Bowls Club
Ramsey Golf and Bowls Club in Cambridge, is experiencing remarkable improvements in turf health and playability thanks to the SISIS Maxislit. Head Greenkeeper Richard Shilling, who has dedicated 35 years to the club, highlights how this aerator is transforming their maintenance practices. Ramsey Golf and Bowls Club in Cambridge, is
Exploring Integrated Pest Management with Kersten UK at the Welsh Government’s IPM Demonstration Event
In October 2024, IGFH’s Bradley Tennant attended an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) demonstration event in Wales, organised to highlight alternative approaches to chemical-based weed control methods. Here, Bradley discusses his experience at the event, which included a presentation, Q&A, and equipment demonstration by Kersten UK. I recently had the opportunity
Experience the Jupiter ATIGrinder at SALTEX 2024
Hunter Grinders, part of the Howardson Group, is thrilled to announce its participation at SALTEX 2024, where it will be showcasing the enhanced Jupiter ATI ‘All-in-One’ Grinder. Experience the Jupiter ATI Grinder at SALTEX 2024. The Jupiter ATI Series 5 is a fully automatic relief spin grinder, designed to deliver
An Impressive Lineup from SISIS at SALTEX 2024
At this year’s SALTEX, SISIS (Stand E082) will present an impressive lineup of turf maintenance equipment, each designed to address specific needs in the care of sports pitches, golf courses, and other fine turf areas. An Impressive Lineup from SISIS at SALTEX 2024. Here’s a closer look at the standout
Dennis Mowers to Showcase Cutting-Edge Technology at SALTEX 2024
Dennis Mowers, part of the Howardson Group, is gearing up for an exciting showcase at SALTEX 2024. Set to take place on 30 and 31 October at the NEC in Birmingham, Dennis Mowers will be displaying their innovative range of electric mowers and turf maintenance equipment at Stand E070. Dennis
Meet the Members, Ryusei Ando
Ryusei is based in Japan, where he works as a greenkeeper at Akita Country Club. Here, he talks about his favourite part about working in sports turf, what he could do if he was able to swap roles with another groundskeeping or greenkeeping team, a vital piece of equipment that
Meet the members, Joe Pitt
Joe started out as a labourer at his local golf course in the UK, before taking on a superintendent role and later furthering his career with a move overseas to sunny Texas, where he worked in several roles at Austin Country Club. He currently works as a superintendent at Balcones
IGFH transforming young people’s lives
In August this year, Daryl Davidson of IGFH volunteered his time to provide an educational, hands-on turf-keeping session for a small group of young people at the Reiby Youth Justice Centre in South Western Sydney. The centre offers a range of health, educational, and spiritual services to young people, including
An Introduction to a Career in Sports Turf Management
Are you interested in a career in grounds management? As a turf manager, you’ll be responsible for producing and maintaining outdoor spaces to a high standard, ensuring that they are functional and visually appealing. The type of grounds you may work on varies depending on your employer, with opportunities that
GroundsFest 2024: A Resounding Success
After a fantastic experience exhibiting at GroundsFest 2024, we’re back in the office, grateful for the warm hospitality of Chris Bassett, Chris Bennett, and their team for organising such a well-run event. GroundsFest has cemented its reputation as the premier annual, free event for grounds staff, greenkeepers, landscapers, designers, architects,
Treating Weeds in Hard Surfaces and Soil with Electricity – Kersten UK
Different electric weeding technology works in different ways. Here’s a breakdown of what works well where and why. We have several new electric weeding products available from Kersten and Zasso. These machines all use electricity to kill weeds, but the systems differ markedly in their uses. Here are the important
The Fleet Robot Marker Preview
Staying informed about the latest innovations is essential for us as we strive to educate and engage new members in our industry. We’re fortunate to have strong relationships with many brands, including Fleet Line Markers. Fleet graciously invited us to preview their newly developed Robot line marker from their New
Successful Synthetic Surfaces Seminar Hosted at Loughborough University
Loughborough University recently played host to the Synthetic Surfaces Seminar, organised by Syn-Pro by SISIS, part of the Howardson Group. The event brought together over 60 delegates eager to enhance their understanding of synthetic sports surfaces, covering a comprehensive agenda from environmental impacts to maintenance practices. https://youtu.be/DTtPSQdg74k The day kicked
Groundsmen are More Than Just “Weird” Grass Cutters
As groundstaff, we’ve heard our fair share of jokes and banter about the profession. But the recent comments made on The Bench podcast by Jon Wilkin and Sam Tomkins overstep the line. What started as light-hearted humour about the care we put into our pitches progressed into a number of
Meet the team, John Flynn
Jack Flynn, The Perfect Pitch, Curator How did you join the industry? My passion for cricket and helping out at club level with curating was rewarding and another way to be involved in cricket besides playing, got an apprenticeship at a school and went from there. Why you joined the
Turf Passport: Connect your club with skilled individuals
Is your club seeking to employ staff? Join Turf Passport, a unique program designed to connect clubs and organizations with skilled professionals in sports turf management. Turf Passport offers your club access to our global network of skilled individuals ready to bring their knowledge and skills to your sports facilities.
Synthetic Surfaces Seminar – Loughborough University July 2024
Enhancing Performance and Sustainability On Tuesday 23rd July 2024, over 50+ attended the Synthetic Surfaces Seminar at Loughborough University, organised and hosted by Syn-Pro by SISIS from the Howardson Group. International Greenkeepers were also present with their stand, alongside Fleet Line Markers in the outdoor area. Other companies present included
Dennis Mowers Partners with Edgbaston Stadium
Dennis Mowers is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Edgbaston Stadium and Warwickshire County Cricket Club. This collaboration is aimed at achieving two significant objectives: becoming the most sustainable cricket ground in the country by having a fully electric range of mowers and enhancing education and support for local
Syn-Pro by SISIS at GroundsFest
Syn-Pro by SISIS is gearing up for GroundsFest 2024, set to take place at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on September 10 and 11. You can find Syn-Pro by SISIS in Outdoor Area A on stand OSA170, where a wide range of advanced synthetic turf maintenance products will be on display. Syn-Pro
Explore SISIS’s Innovations at GroundsFest 2024
GroundsFest 2024 attendees can look forward to seeing SISIS in Outside Area A on stand number OSA170, where a variety of innovative turf maintenance products will be on display. This year, the focus will be on three key products: the Quadraplay, the Variseeder, and the Rotorake TM1000. In addition to
T.E.T.O Meet at Leicester City June 2024
‘Cutline Is King’ T.E.T.O, also known as Turf Equipment Technicians Organisation held their most recent gathering at Leicester City’s Training Ground thanks to Chris Minton, Head Mechanic at Leicester City and James Wilkinson Workshop and Equipment Manager and the Buckinghamshire GC. T.E.T.O was founded by Chris Minton, James Wilkinson and
Hunter Grinders Returns to GroundsFest 2024
After a successful GroundsFest 2023, Hunter Grinders is excited to announce its return to GroundsFest 2024, where it will be showcasing the enhanced Jupiter ATI ‘All in One’ Grinder. The Jupiter ATI is a fully automatic relief spin grinder, designed to deliver precision grinding at its best. It features automatic
Dennis to Exhibit E-Series at GroundsFest 2024
Dennis is set to make a significant impact at GroundsFest 2024, showcasing an impressive range of battery-powered products on stand 50 in Hall 2 at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on September 10 and 11. Dennis is set to make a significant impact at GroundsFest 2024, showcasing an impressive range of battery-powered
Greater Western Sydney Careers Market – May 2024
We’ve been back at the careers fairs over in Sydney. The 2024 Greater Western Sydney Careers Market run by Brett Carter Events is done and dusted for this year and what a cracker of an event it was. Just shy of 6000 High School students from 52 High Schools and
BIGGA South Coast Grinding Workshop – July 2024
Event Details: Date & Time: Tuesday, July 2, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM Location: Corhampton Golf Club, Shepherds Farm Lane, Southampton – SO32 3GZ We have been privileged to be associate members of BIGGA for several years. With a robust membership of over 5,500 individuals across the UK,
Meet the Members: Adam Witchell
Adam Witchell is our second featured member in this issue. Adam has had a busy career, starting as a greenkeeper at Aberdovey Golf Club and going on to secure Head Groundsman roles at Forest Green Rovers Football Club and Calne Town FC. Adam has recently left his role as the
Dennis & SISIS Partner with Croquet England for Lawn Maintenance Seminar
Dennis and SISIS, in association with Croquet England, recently hosted a highly informative Croquet Lawn/Court Maintenance One-Day Seminar at the Bristol Croquet Club. The event attracted croquet enthusiasts and lawn care professionals eager to enhance their knowledge and skills in maintaining croquet lawns to the highest standards. Dennis and SISIS,
Lackham Tradeshow and Careers Fair 2024
Brad of IGFH attended the Lackham Tradeshow and Careers Fair, held at Wiltshire College & University Centre’s Lackham campus on June 17, 2024, which aims to “bring employers and students together to showcase the wide range of careers available in the local area”. We interviewed many of the exhibitors at
Navigating transformative time with the GMA
In our last article, we reached out to BIGGA to see how the association is strategically adapting to challenges in pay equity, embracing social media, and navigating industry shifts. This time, we’ve asked the same questions to the GMA —and you’re in for an enlightening read. Q: What do you
Going Green: Heart of Midlothian F.C. Embraces the Dennis ES-34R
In the ever-evolving landscape of sports turf management, combining sustainability and efficiency are becoming paramount for professionals like Colin Davie, Head Groundsman for Heart of Midlothian F.C. In a recent move towards greener practices, Heart of Midlothian F.C. has invested in a Dennis ES-34R rotary mower In a recent move
Seattle University’s Field Specialist Applauds SISIS Sweeper
Seattle University’s commitment to maintaining first-class athletic and sporting facilities has received a significant boost with the introduction of the SISIS SSS1000 towed sweeper. Seattle University’s commitment to maintaining first-class athletic and sporting facilities has received a significant boost with the introduction of the SISIS SSS1000 towed sweeper. Peter Larson,
Guide to creating an integrated weed management plan – Kersten UK
Sustainability is currently at the forefront for most companies, and rightly so. Without sustainable practices, processes will simply end at the first bottleneck. By definition, sustainability means the ability to maintain or support a process over time. My favorite definition is, “to meet the needs of today without compromising the
Bowling Green Maintenance Day – Knypersley Bowling Club
I’ve always been a huge supporter of free educational events, especially when they are open for all. I have had the pleasure to attend quite a few now over the years and I still walk away with new knowledge and contacts. This one was different from the rest, I’ve attended
Solid Tine Aeration
Solid tine aeration is used to improve soil structure, reduce compaction, release nutrients, allows water to penetrate the surface and enhance overall turf health. Unlike hollow tine aeration, which removes soil cores, solid tine aeration simply punctures the soil with solid metal spikes or tines. This method creates channels that
Dennis and SISIS Announce Partnership with Derbyshire Cricket Foundation
Dennis and SISIS, renowned names in turf maintenance, have announced a partnership with the Derbyshire Cricket Foundation. This collaboration aims to bolster grassroots cricket pitches throughout the county, promising a significant enhancement in the quality and accessibility of cricketing facilities. Roger Moore (left) from Howardson Group with Tom Coxhead from
Turf surface grooming
Turf surface grooming is a maintenance practice to improve the appearance, playability, and health of sports surfaces like golf courses, playing fields, and tennis courts. It involves using specialised equipment to break up debris and worm casts, remove dew, and fix minor surface irregularities. SISIS Flexibrush folded How Often is
Selecting the right fertilizer – Size to hardness
The information in this article was provided by Gilba Solutions One of the perpetual debates in the turf and amenity industry with selecting a fertilizer is whether granulated homogenous fertilizers give a more accurate application at a prescribed rate than blends of similar analysis. What is involved in manufacturing a
Biology of grass seed germination
There are many types of grass seed, but the early stages of seed germination are basically the same. The advantage of planting a lawn is that we can provide some of the necessary ingredients to make grass seed germination easier. We can provide the necessary moisture, proper soil conditions, and
What are PGR’s? – Plant Growth Regulators
Plant Growth Regulators are synthetic or biological compounds that positively benefit and modify the plants growth and development. They are widely used in many plants to shorten the internodes and create a denser, tighter and smaller plant. Growth regulators can be used on amenity grass to reduce the need to
Transitioning perennial ryegrass out of couch
Couch (Cynodon spp.) are commonly overseeded with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) for reasons such as aesthetics, increased wear tolerance and to protect the couch once it enters dormancy. The aim is to maintain this cover during the cool season months and then once it begins to warm up in the
Cricket Loam
Now the mixtures used and the definition of cricket loam can drastically change depending on which part of the world is using it. In the northern hemisphere, loam is soil composed mostly of sand, silt, and a smaller amount of clay. By weight, its mineral composition is about 40–40–20% concentration
Influences that temperature and light have on C3 and C4 grasses
The soil temperature required for growth and to keep C3 and C4 grasses are different. A warmer soil contains more energy. More energy available enables chemical processes driving plant growth to work faster and more efficiently. This means grass can make food quicker (through photosynthesis) and therefore grow faster. There
Discouraging weeds in turfgrass
Weeds will grow in almost any situation where the conditions are favourable. Weeds are opportunistic and will invade where suitable conditions arise. If there are any thin or weak areas of the turfgrass caused by neglect or unsuitable management, this creates a perfect opportunity for weeds to encroach. In order
What is sand?
Sand is the main component of the majority of top-dressing and construction materials (currently available) that are used for sports and amenity turf-grass surfaces. Sand can be composed of different materials with Quartz (SiO2)being the most well known and common.Sand is used to improve the mechanical conditions of soils, particularly
Controlling Crane flies
Crane flies are becoming an increasingly worse problem. Milder winters coupled with the withdrawal of chemicals are making Crane fly even harder to battle. Over the last few years the population of the Crane fly has increased dramatically due to wet Autumns and mild winters. A small moderate population is
Masterclass 3 – Reading FC
On May 28th, 2024, we conducted our 3rd masterclass for our Wiltshire College & University Centre sports turf students at Reading Football Club. The day involved a visit to the stadium, where James Stabler, David Newell, and Sam Ampleford introduced the students to the unique challenges of maintaining a top-tier
What is carrying capacity?
Within the turfgrass industry the term carrying capacity (or sustainable use) can be defined as the maximum level of surface use, or activity on a turf surface before unacceptable levels of deterioration begin to occur. Potential carrying capacity is what could have been achieved given optimum use and management strategies
Howardson Group Hosts Successful Dealer Training Event
The Howardson Group recently brought together over 100 delegates from their dealership network across the UK, Europe and the Far East, over a three week period which proved to be an invaluable opportunity for all involved. The Howardson Group recently brought together over 100 delegates from their dealership network. Held
What are wetting agents?
In short, a wetting agent is a substance that lowers the surface tension of a liquid therefore increasing its penetrating and spreading qualities of previously water repellent surfaces. Wetting agents are from a class of chemical compounds known as surface active agents or ‘surfactants.’ Which you may also see them
Grass leaves
To the human eye, grass leaves in general look pretty much the same. However, under a microscope is where the differences become apparent, especially between warm and cool season grasses. Leaves of warm season grasses have thick walls around the vascular cells. Leaves of warm season grasses have thick walls
Sanitising equipment after and before use
We all know of the numerous myths and tricks about at the moment on ‘how to properly sterilise equipment’. Some are pretty solid, while others are outright hazardous to health or inflict damage to the surfaces they are used on. What is sanitising? In short, it means to ‘make clean
Why is height of cut important?
Now this is one of those topics in greenkeeping that is site-specific due to the large amount of variables, including grass type, weather, region, budget, staff and everything in between. However there are some important rules of thumb to keep in mind, the biggest one being to avoid cutting off
What is grass?
Despite being the fundamental basis of some sports, parks, and lawns, the meaning of the word ‘grass’ never really gets much thought. Even by qualified turf managers! So what is grass? ‘Grass is a monocotyledon plant, herbaceous plants with narrow leaves growing from the base.’ Vague, right? That’s because grass
Poa, ways to control and prevent
Poa Annua (Annual meadow grass) is a common grass that is part of the Poaceae family. This family of grass provides staple foods, from domesticated cereal crops such as maize, wheat, rice, barley, and millet, to feed for animals. For some, Poa is a turf manager’s daily grass; for others
Why is hollow tining important?
Improving soil aeration and decompaction is a huge part of maintaining any turf surface, but especially sports turf surfaces. This can be achieved using a variety of methods including slit or knife tines, soild or spike tines, or hollow tines. Today’s topic is hollow tining (coring). These tines physically remove
Why is quality of cut important?
Its no hidden fact that to achieve the highest possible mowing quality, a cylinder mower is the best. Their clean scissor-like cut makes them the perfect choice for sports turf surfaces, high-quality lawns and recreational areas. The basic design hasn’t changed since Edwin Budding developed the first machine in 1830.
Understanding plant water use – Evapotranspiration
Evapotranspiration is a term used to describe the water consumed by plants over a period of time. Evepotranpiration is the water loss occurring from the process of evaporation and transpiration. Evaporation occurs when water changes to vapor on either soil or plant surfaces. Transpiration refers to the water loss through
A Sweeping Success with SISIS at Merchiston Castle School
Stuart Chalmers, Head Groundsman at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh, has recently elevated his maintenance procedures with the addition of the SISIS Litamina 1200. This innovative tractor-mounted sweeper is helping to enhance the upkeep of Scotland’s only all-boys independent boarding school. Stuart Chalmers, Head Groundsman at Merchiston Castle School in
Dennis Signals Eco-Conscious Evolution at Murrayfield
With over a decade of experience nurturing the hallowed grounds of the Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium campus (SGM), Jim Dawson has recently embraced a significant change: the adoption of electric turf maintenance equipment, specifically the Dennis ES-860 cylinder mower, marking a shift away from traditional petrol-powered machinery. Dennis Signals Eco-Conscious
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