Professional Groundscare March 2026

The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service to support the LET and LIV Golf

The Ladies European Tour (LET) has announced The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service has been appointed as the Official Agronomist of the Tour.

It will advise the LET on sustainable golf course maintenance operations and environmentally responsible agronomy practices for 20 venues and three events in 2026.

Working collaboratively with the golf courses and the LET, it will provide expertise for the effective management of courses and use of best practice in sustainability to provide high performance playing surfaces in an environmentally responsible way.

This will allow courses to reach their optimal course conditioning for world-class LET tournaments, while adhering to current environmental regulations and taking into consideration factors such as climate change and resource constraints.

Services provided to LET venues during the 2026 season will include site visits, agronomic reports, observations and recommendations, follow-up calls, soil sample analysis, course set up guidelines and data collection using USGA GS3 and Moisture Meter technology with the Deacon platform.

Daniel Lightfoot, Director of Sustainable Golf at The R&A, “Our team of agronomists has extensive experience of providing world-class, high performance playing conditions which adhere to best practices in sustainability at championships and events worldwide. We look forward to working with the Ladies’ European Tour to support its tournament venues that will host professional events for the best women’s golfers this year.”

The R&A Sustainable Agronomy Service and the USGA Green

Section will also work with LIV Golf to advance standards at the league’s host courses.

This consultancy support will help elevate conditions across the league’s 14-event season, spanning ten countries and five continents.

Agronomy services provided by The R&A and USGA focus on advancing excellence in course management by delivering world class resources, technology, insight, and global best practices for courses and competitions of every level across the world. The guidance enables courses and superintendents to evolve, adapt, and steward each course to its optimal potential, implementing modern agronomic strategies while preserving the distinct character of each course and delivering championship-calibre playing environments.

The R&A Enquiry 32

GMA Connect returns in 2026

The GMA has announced the expansion of GMA Connect in 2026, rolling out six UKwide events designed to bring practical, accessible

learning directly to grounds staff and volunteers.

Following two successful pilot events in 2025, the 2026

GMA Connect programme will take place in Oxford, Cardiff, Manchester, Leeds, Southampton and Ipswich, ensuring grounds people can

access hands-on learning closer to home.

As a core GMA member benefit, GMA Connect brings the Association’s learning experience into regional hubs whilst also welcoming the wider grounds management industry. Each one day event offers a mix of targeted seminar sessions and live demonstrations from leading suppliers, giving attendees the chance to see products, equipment and techniques in action.

Designed around real world challenges faced by local grounds teams, GMA Connect focuses on practical solutions and takeaways that can be put to use immediately on site.

The 2026 schedule: Abingdon School (Oxford) - Thursday

16 April; Cardiff City Stadium (Cardiff) - Wednesday 22 April; Joie Stadium, Manchester City (Manchester) - Thursday 14 May; Headingley Stadium (Leeds) - Tuesday 19 May; Stoneham Lane Football Complex (Southampton)Thursday 21 May; and Ipswich Rugby Club (Ipswich)Thursday 4 June.

Sarah Hunter, Head of Events at the GMA, said: “It’s all about delivering high-quality learning closer to home and making it more accessible and easier to fit around the busy lives of grounds people.

GMA Connect is a core member benefit and these events allow us to bring the GMA learning experience directly into the regions.”

The GMA Enquiry 33

Club pinpoints ISEKI for specific remit

Shaun Cunningham, Course Manager at Prestonfield Golf Club, Edinburgh, has invested in his first ISEKI tractor following an extensive search for a compact dedicated exclusively to greens.

Collaborating with Hayden Laing, Area Sales Manager at Fairways GM’s Kinross depot, Shaun specified a powerful yet lightweight tractor with a tight turning circle and the capability

to operate a top dresser, sprayer and spiker. Meeting the club’s sustainability targets was equally important.

“This is a fleet addition for a very specific role — a designated tractor for the greens and nothing else,” said Shaun.

“Its manoeuvrability and balanced weight across the turf tyres suit our requirements perfectly,

enabling efficient operation and fewer passes across the greens. We decided to forego a cab to keep weight to a minimum.

“While budget was not the primary driver, achieving the right balance of size, weight and performance for greens maintenance was essential. The tractor delivered exactly what we wanted while remaining costeffective and competitively priced.

“Stage V compliance was also important, reflecting the club’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

“The TM4720 is surprisingly deceptive; compact in size yet with 27 hp, it is a feisty, willing worker that is both nimble and responsive around the greens.”

Fairways GM Enquiry 35

British greenkeeper building a world-class course

Jamie Faulkner’s journey from suburban London to the searing heat of Bahrain has been defined by travel and an enduring love of greenkeeping.

As Director of Agronomy at The Royal Golf Club — the only grass course on the island – he is setting the standard for two new developments now being planned elsewhere on the island.

The club recently completed a £1.5 million machinery

investment, replacing an ageing competitor fleet with a full suite of John Deere equipment supplied by Orient Irrigation Services.

The new fleet includes compact tractors, mowers, and two HD200 sprayers on ProGators. While the purchase was driven by the golf course, the machinery will also support the wider operation, which includes maintaining the nearby horse racing track and landscaping

around 1,000 villas that neighbour the club.

Dealer support plays a big part in that. Jamie works with Orient’s Harry Pattinson, a former outlet manager at John Deere dealer Thomas Sherriff in the UK. Despite being based an hour’s flight away, Harry provides ongoing technical and parts backup.

John Deere Enquiry 37

GKB Leaf Blower proves the economical choice

Established in 1910, Eaton Golf Club offers its members a mature parkland setting for a picturesque 18-holes of play on the outskirts of Norwich.

Jay Seaman, Head Greenkeeper, has become all too familiar with the challenges that come with managing such an established parkland site – with leaf fall not only proving to be a drain on time but also on the finances. Making the process more economical (in all senses of the word!) is a GKB Leaf Blower.

“Due to the age of the trees we have here on site, we can be clearing leaves for anywhere

up to three months of the year,” explains Jay, who heads up a greenkeeping team of six. “Our previous trailed blower ran on petrol and could cost us in the region of £50 a day just in fuel.”

The Leaf Blower from GKB Machines delivers high airflow output, with low demand on the tractor – requiring less than 40hp.

The adjustable rear chute and air capacity of 380m3/min makes light work of clearing leaves and other debris, to swiftly improve both playability and presentation.

GKB Machines

Enquiry 36

One of the most advanced football pitches in the world

A new, state-of-the-art hybrid pitch looks set to play a major role in a season to remember for Hednesford Town FC, with the club challenging at the top of the Northern Premier League just months after the pitch was installed.

The pitch, which was developed and delivered through a collaboration between SIS Pitches, SEL Environmental and FORMA, was installed over the summer as part of a major investment programme led by club owners, Craig and Amanda Gwilt.

Designed to provide a faster, more durable and consistent playing surface, as well as advanced water recycling capabilities, the new hybrid pitch system is now being hailed as a key factor behind the Pitmen’s strong start to the 2025/26 campaign.

The standout feature of the new Keys Park pitch is its pristine SIS Grass Hybrid surface. Synthetic fibres have been stitched into the natural grass to give roots a stable anchor, greatly enhancing

durability throughout a demanding fixture schedule.

Beneath the playing surface itself, the SIS Air AquaCycle system delivers significant performance and sustainability benefits, combining advanced aeration technology with FORMA’s revolutionary 525,000 litre Formavoid subterranean raft system.

SIS Pitches Enquiry 38

Water-powered sand injection with VGR

Campey Turf Care Systems has taken on distribution of the VGR TopChanger XP, adding the proven Dutch soilimprovement system to its specialist machinery offering.

Developed by VGR Equipment and refined through more than ten years of use in elite sports turf environments, the TopChanger XP is designed to tackle some of the most persistent challenges faced by turf managers, including compaction, poor drainage, organic matter accumulation, and limited maintenance windows.

The machine delivers measurable soil improvement while minimising disruption to play and surface availability.

At the core of the TopChanger XP is a unique water-powered aeration and sand injection process. High-pressure water, typically between 200 and 290 bar, is used to create channels within the soil profile.

Sand, either wet or dry, is then injected directly into the rootzone through two injection blocks fitted with a total of 20 injectors. This approach increases infiltration, dilutes organic matter throughout the profile, and promotes deeper, healthier root growth, all in a single pass and without the surface disturbance associated with traditional hollow tining or topdressing.

The TopChanger XP has a working width of 1.6 metres, a 250-litre sand hopper and an operating weight of 700 kg, making it suitable for regular use on golf greens, football pitches, and training surfaces. The latest XP model incorporates several refinements, including an improved hopper design to reduce spillage, upgraded software to reduce water usage, a new LED touchscreen display and simplified operation.

Practical enhancements such as improved weight distribution,

wire roller scrapers front and rear, and a rear-mounted hose improve surface cleanliness and manoeuvrability during use.

A key benefit of the system is its flexibility. The TopChanger XP can operate in wet conditions, requires only two operators, and can be used as a wateronly aeration tool in areas where irrigation infrastructure would make conventional tining unsuitable. Additional profileimproving products can also be incorporated into the sand mix, allowing treatments to be tailored to specific agronomic objectives.

Campey Turf Care Systems

Enquiry 39

Reliable, accurate and affordable sprayers

A straightforward approach sits at the heart of the Britishbuilt range from StarGreen.

Designed with simplicity in mind, the sprayers combine straightforward engineering with modern manufacturing and high-specification components to deliver dependable performance at a competitive price.

The line-up includes 450- and 700-litre truck-mounted models, plus five tractor-mounted options with tank capacities from 200 to 800 litres.

Each machine features a high-quality three-cylinder diaphragm pump and a

Effective immediately, this new partnership strengthens GroundTech’s offering to sports clubs, schools and community venues around the country by bringing the full SWOZI linemarker range to the UK

backed by renowned sales, service and aftercare support. SWOZI is a Swiss sports technology company with strong foundations in machine automation. The cutting-edge GPS and robotic technology embedded within their professional range helps to improve efficiency, simplify workflows and meet sporting codes with 100% accuracy.

comprehensive standard specification, including triple nozzle holders for precise, flexible application — making them a practical choice for busy turf professionals. GreenTek Enquiry 40

Software update for line-marking robots

Tank has introduced the latest software on all its current robots.

This latest update introduces a series of advanced features designed to optimize operations for groundskeepers, coaches, athletic directors, and facility managers. www.turftank.com

As part of Turf Tank’s unwavering commitment to enhancing user experience, the latest update brings several key advancements to the linemarking robots, aimed at reducing downtime and ensuring superior pitch quality.

Highlights of the software update:

detect low paint levels, pause their operations, and notify operators for refills, thereby minimizing time wastage and allowing grounds managers to focus on other tasks.

• Recovery Mode: In the event of unexpected signal disruption, the robots will automatically reposition themselves to regain connectivity, enabling seamless job resumption without human intervention.

• Route Manager: Managers can now customize the order and direction of pitch and element markings, optimizing efficiency and providing a more tailored experience.

• Job Status Notifications: Real-time updates on job

progress are sent directly to managers’ tablets, enhancing remote monitoring and operational oversight.

The Empty Paint Detection feature alone promises to save grounds crews significant downtime weekly. This update also includes enhancements for improved logo detailing, precise paint consumption tracking through nozzle selection, and the ability to resume failed jobs from the last stopped point.

Turf Tank’s latest software update reflects the company’s dedication to continuous improvement and innovation, driven by user and customer feedback.

Turf Tank Enquiry 44

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Efficiency and safety gains with Aspen Fuel

Having read about the positive experiences of other clubs making the switch, the team at Gloucestershire’s Minchinhampton Golf Club are themselves now discovering the efficiency and safety benefits of Aspen alkylate petrol.

Used across a suite of 2-stroke equipment, club Mechanic Tom Dorey notes the significant reduction in costly faults and breakdowns, while its delivery by the barrel has reduced the time and risks associated with transporting fuel from the forecourt.

“I was familiar with Aspen Fuel from personal experience but was seeing more articles in the press about facilities switching over and felt it was worth exploring” explains

Tom. “We spoke with some other golf clubs and then met with Aspen’s Roy Narbey at BTME in 2025 who arranged a trial of Aspen-2 for us. The rest, as they say, is history and we’ve recently just taken delivery of our second barrel.”

Being virtually free from ethanol, aromatics and benzene Aspen alkylate petrol presents a 99% cleaner fuel when compared with traditional pump fuel. The significantly reduced emissions not only benefit the health and safety of the operator but also contributes to increased sustainability standards, helping the team to meet the courses environmental responsibilities.

Aspen Fuel Enquiry 46

Electrifying change to an industry favourite

The most striking recent change in the ride-on mower section is the wider availability of battery powered models for professional use. Jane Carley catches up with this and other mower news.

The latest crop of battery ride-ons are not only suitable for professional use but have been designed for it, with extended run-time, ease of charging and the ability to power high capacity decks and other attachments. Higher initial purchase prices can be balanced against lower lifetime costs due to fewer components and reduced servicing requirements.

Stiga’s renowned Park mower has been completely reengineered to enter the electric era. The result is a zeroemission front mower that combines the manoeuverability of Stiga’s articulated steering system with proprietary ePower Pro Battery technology.

ePark Pro has a reinforced chassis and new structural layout for maximum durability, while the lowered centre of gravity, achieved thanks to the battery positioning, delivers improved stability and ease of handling – without altering its compact proportions.

The ePark Pro is powered by the new 40 Ah – 56 V ePower Pro batteries, developed and engineered in-house by Stiga for professional use. The machine runs on a configuration of four batteries, which can cover up to 18,000m², but this can be extended to six batteries, reaching an autonomy of up to 27,000m². The batteries are removable and interchangeable without tools, enabling flexible use in all conditions. The modular system allows the same battery to be used on other products in Stiga’s Professional range, optimising costs and management.

A front-mounted cutting deck engineered by Stiga, the Combi ePro 110 Q Plus, is designed to offer top class visibility and

cutting precision – ideal for mowing along fences, flower beds and trees.

Equipped with the patented Multiclip system, this mower finely mulches grass clippings. A wide range of seasonal accessories and the RAC (Release and Connect) quick attachment system extend the machine‘s all-year-round use.

Included in the package, the Pro Charger 30A with Wi-Fi connection allows users to manage charging and updates via the app – for maximum efficiency.

AS-Motor has expanded its portfolio with the first electrically powered ride-on brush cutter with a replaceable battery system, available in the Uk from parent company Ariens.

The AS 920 ESherpa twowheel drive high grass ride-on mower is equipped with four 56-volt LI-ion interchangeable batteries, giving it a total capacity of 16kWh. The electric drive and blade drive are designed to deliver mowing performance said to slightly exceed that of a combustion engine. Power output at the mower deck is 13kWp and wheel drive delivers a torque of 600 Nm.

Ariens’ FusionCore battery system can also be used in multiple machines for optimal seasonal use. The AS 920 ESherpa’s replaceable batteries are compatible with the Zenith E and Arrow E professional zero-turn mowers from Ariens.

The interchangeable battery system offers a long run time, as full power is achieved with just two batteries. Empty batteries can be replaced in a matter of seconds. When developing the ESherpa, the engineers based the charging

modalities on the classic electric car standard.

With the integrated 3.3kW fast charger, a full charge of 16 kWh can be achieved in just under five hours. The Type 2 charging socket allows charging at a wall box (optionally available), at public charging stations or with an adapter, at a conventional 230volt socket. The optionally available mobile charging station allows additional batteries to be charged outside the machine.

An integrated LED interface on the steering column allows the driver to monitor the charge status and capacity of each battery. Faults are diagnosed automatically. Energy is recovered during braking and the batteries are recharged (recuperation).

SUPERIOR FINISH EVERYTIME

The ISEKI SF range of powerful 22.5-49hp diesel engine mowers enable you to mow your grass whatever the weather keeping the same pristine finish every time. With a variety of rotary or Muthing flail decks to choose from, the ISEKI SF range really is the ultimate mowing machine. Available as cut and drop with a useful toolbox on the back, or cut and collect, with a turbine driven collection system direct from the deck to the large hopper, available up to 1300L. Designed and manufactured in Japan for quality that’s built to last.

Contact your local dealer to book a demo on your premises today!

A company spokesman comments: “The new batterypowered ESherpa is 100 per cent emission-free. The extended seasonal usability of the replaceable batteries on other machines, as well as the virtual elimination of plastic parts, also contribute to sustainability. For the driver, the electric drive also offers advantages in terms of comfort. Operating noise is significantly lower and body vibrations are greatly reduced.”

Based on the combustion engine model AS 920 Sherpa, the new battery-powered ESherpa shares many components such as the mechanical differential lock, the

double blade bearing and the overload protection of the reliable AS Sherpa cross blade system.

Building on the trusted performance of the diesel Groundsmaster range, the Toro Groundsmaster e3300 batterypowered out-front rotary mower delivers the same durability, cut quality and operator comfort as its diesel counterpart, with zero operating emissions and now with all-wheel drive traction.

The e3300 uses Toro’s patentpending Hyper-Cell technology and can be equipped with up to 17 batteries for extended run-time tailored to operational needs. When mowing conditions

get tougher, the Smart Power mode automatically redistributes power to maintain peak cutting performance, while a battery reserve function ensures there’s always enough charge to return to base for a top-up.

Toro’s CrossTrax all-wheel drive system and the high ground clearance design means the e3300 can handle challenging terrain - automatic traction control optimises wheel power for improved traction and stability and hugs contours, slopes and uneven ground even in slippery conditions.

Smart controls optimise energy consumption, ensuring

efficient utilisation throughout the day, while real-time monitoring via the InfoCentre keeps operators informed of battery status.

A Toro spokesman comments: “Electric mowers offer significant long-term savings compared to traditional diesel-powered models. With no motor oil, spark plugs, or filters to change, maintenance costs are nearly non-existent, and as such, electric mowers present a compelling economic case for businesses looking to trim expenses without sacrificing performance.”

Henry Sheach Lawnmower Services Ltd marks an extraordinary 35-year journey pioneering Zero-Turn mower technology across the United Kingdom—helping to shape the

professional groundcare market from its formative years to today’s next-generation machines.

Henry Sheach’s story began in the early days of Scag, when zero-turn mowers were still a novel concept in the UK. Recognising their productivity advantages—superior manoeuvrability, reduced cutting times, and commercialgrade durability—he played a key role in introducing and establishing the category among professional landscapers, contractors, and estate managers.

Now, Henry Sheach embarks on an exciting new chapter with Bad Boy Mowers.

Among the most significant developments is the

introduction of a fully electric battery-powered zero-turn mower, delivering commercialgrade performance with zero direct emissions and dramatically reduced noise levels—ideal for councils, schools, and contractors operating in environmentally sensitive areas.

Looking ahead to 2027, a hybrid zero-turn model is also planned, combining internal combustion efficiency with electric drive assistance to optimise fuel economy, torque delivery, and operational flexibility.

Additional enhancements across the new range include upgraded suspension seating systems, reinforced cutting decks, improved service accessibility, and refined control ergonomics.

Amazone has introduced a new model in its ride-on mower range. The ProfiMower is designed for cut and drop operations and the finely shredded cuttings are deposited directly on the surface acting as a natural mulch layer.

The basis for the machine is the Profihopper 1500: a selfpropelled tool carrier with hydrostatic all-wheel drive and compact turning circle.

Powered by a Yanmar fourcylinder 45.5hp diesel engine, the ProfiMower has a transport speed of up to 20km/h while the 55-litre fuel tank enables all-day working without refuelling stops.

The ProfiMower can be equipped with the familiar SmartCut fine flail cutting deck or the new 1.8m cut BladeCut rotary mowing deck.

Mowing blades on the BladeCut rotate at high speed and cut the grass precisely. The combination of high mowing speed and optimum distribution of the cuttings minimises fuel consumption and optimises the cost-effectiveness of the implement, says Amazone.

With a working width of around 1.50 metres, the SmartCut fine flail cutting deck enables efficient mowing of large areas.

The ProfiMower also features an integrated load platform at the rear of the machine ideal for transport of transport of tools, seed, safety barriers or maintenance accessories

Mower updates

Away from power developments manufacturers have been busy with other improvements to improve efficiency and operator comfort.

Ransomes has introduced a new operator cabin designed to keep drivers comfortable in any weather. Built around the SureAir AC System, it features a high-powered, front-mounted cooling condenser that pulls clean air from outside the cabin while keeping dust and debris out.

A rear-mounted evaporator, engineered for efficiency, delivers 42% more airflow and 33% more cooling power than previous models. For additional ventilation, the side window can partially open without compromising the cabin’s integrity or fully open for maximum airflow. During cooler months, the operator cabin maintains comfort all day with an integrated climate heating system and a fully enclosed structure that blocks wind and rain.

The new cabin features an ergonomic layout for easier

control and reduced operator fatigue. Its driver display is mounted on the windshield pillar, providing continued visibility while monitoring necessary safety information provided by the machine. In addition to the mounted display, the seat, armrest, and steering wheel are adjustable for optimal posture support and comfort.

For added safety, the new cabin features a large, curved front window with a heated front screen that ensures clear visibility in all conditions. These features were added without changing the lowprofile design of the cabin. Standing only five centimetres taller than the ROPS versions of the machines, the shape of the mower remains similar, maintaining a sleek appearance without sacrificing protection or comfort.

For more than 60 years, Canycom has focused on understanding customer needs and delivering highly efficient mowing solutions.

All Canycom ride-on brushcutters feature selectable two-/four-wheel drive allowing operators to adapt instantly to changing ground conditions. This makes them an ideal all-round solution for challenging terrain, says importer PSD Groundcare.

Built to perform in the toughest environments, Canycom brushcutters easily tackle long grass, bushes, weeds, bracken, and brambles. With four-wheel drive as standard, these machines offer excellent manoeuvrability, high energy efficiency, and reliable performance on slopes of up to 25deg.

Tool-free blade changes are available on all models (excluding the CM1404), ensuring fast, hasslefree maintenance. With no cutter deck belts to adjust or replace,

cleaning and servicing are quicker and easier, while direct power transfer to the blades delivers maximum cutting efficiency.

The SABO Gladiator range of ride-on flail mowers is designed to handle everything from small areas to large, demanding sites. Flail mowers provide a robust and effective alternative to traditional rotary mowers.

Engineered for tough use, the Gladiator range performs equally well on flat ground or steep slopes, with four-wheel drive models offering additional traction and control. These machines deliver a highly efficient mowing solution for both private users and professionals, including local authorities and landscaping contractors.

As the 2026 cutting season approaches, landscape and amenity professionals are facing the perennial challenge of balancing rising operational costs with the need for impeccable turf presentation.

Etesia UK has responded to this pressure with a strategic move, announcing unprecedented savings of over £8,000 on the Hydro 124 range. This price reduction aims to make premium, high-output machinery more accessible to contractors and local authorities looking to upgrade their fleets before the spring growth begins.

At the pinnacle of the Etesia range sits the Hydro 124DX. Unlike traditional mowers that adapt a collection system to an existing tractor frame, Etesia’s philosophy is ‘cutting first‘ The 124DX is designed around a patented direct rear-ejection system that eliminates the need for noisy, power-hungry turbines.

Equipped with a 25hp Lombardini three-cylinder diesel engine and a permanent four-wheel drive system, the DX model offers superior stability on slopes and maintains traction in boggy, waterlogged conditions.

It features a 124cm cutting width with two counterrotating blades and has a theoretical output of up to 19,000 m²/h.

The 600 litre grass box can be emptied at up to 1.8 metres directly from the operator’s seat, allowing for easy tipping into skips or trailers.

Users such as the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust have noted that the machines are so effective in adverse weather that they can ‘cut and collect in two inches of water‘ without clogging - a feat that keeps maintenance schedules on track during unpredictable British springs.

With an optional front PTO and attachments like snow blades, sweepers, and scarifiers, the Hydro 124DX transitions from a mower to a all-year-round maintenance tool, ensuring a high return on investment throughout the year.

Case Study

Thirty years of Deere

Five miles outside St Andrews, presentation is everything for Andrew Kennedy at Clayton Caravan Park, where 700 static caravans sit on a 150-acre estate.

Andrew relies on a fleet of five John Deere ride-on mowers to keep the park looking its best.

Founded by Andrew’s grandfather in 1966, Clayton Caravan Park has grown into a large holiday destination offering rental lodges, holiday homes, and a range of on-site facilities including a restaurant, bar, leisure centre, pool, gym, café, and mini golf course.

“There’s a lot of ground to maintain, and it’s one of the key aspects of the business,” says Andrew. “When someone’s looking to buy a caravan that could cost over £100,000, they want to see that the park is well looked after. If everything looks neat and tidy as they drive round, that’s what gives them confidence to buy.”

Case Study

Five-star review for Kubota zero turn

Windsor Holiday Park located just outside of Newcastle, County Down is proudly a five-star, AA Goldrated resort, family-owned and operated by Gareth Hagen, his wife and two children. The commitment to quality extends well beyond hospitality – it’s evident in every blade of grass across their seven acre site. “The presentation of the grounds is what creates either the right or wrong first impression of someone’s holiday which is why we put so much emphasis on this being perfect,” he explains.

“I’ve grown up in the industry and was familiar with Kubota, so turned to Laird Grass Machinery when we needed to replace our previous mower. The team at Laird knew exactly what we needed and, while we knew the specification of the ZD1211 was going to be spot on, its performance has truly exceeded all expectations.”

“We’ve cut our mowing time by 50%.” Gareth expands, “The productivity of this machine is

Recent expansion, including almost 200 additional caravans, has made reliable, high-quality machinery more important than ever. The team now

John Deere

The park includes a mix of natural and landscaped areas. Woodlands and riverbanks are left for wildlife, while lawns and hedges are regularly maintained to keep standards high throughout the year. “It never really stops,” says Andrew. “We’ll put the grass cutters away in November, but then it’s straight onto hedge cutting.”

operates three John Deere X950Rs and two smaller models.

“These machines are agile, which is essential when you’re mowing around obstacles like boxes, washing lines and fences,” comments Andrew John Deere machines have been part of the park’s maintenance fleet for more than 30 years through local dealer Double A, based just three miles away at Cupar.

Case Study

outstanding, and we can navigate between the statics and glamping pods with such ease that the whole job can be done in just half a day in good weather.”

The manoeuvrability of the ZD1211 has also made the day-to-day work much safer and simpler. “Before, we had to reverse in and out of pitches, which isn’t ideal with guests and children moving around. Now, we can turn on the spot, so we’re always forward facing with full line of sight.”

From Kubota’s recently expanded Zero-Turn mower range, the ZD1211 prioritises efficiency with a 60in cutting width and hydrauliclift deck. Its suspension seat means greater comfort and less operator fatigue – something Gareth and his team of wardens appreciate. “Gone are the days of sore backs… the seat is like nothing else on the market, you could literally have it in your living room!”

To reduce the transportation of clippings around the site, Gareth opted to equip the ZD1211 with Kubota’s mulching kit. “We don’t have capacity to lift grass so this keeps both the site clean and the guests happy.”

Case Study

ISEKI cut and collect beats the elements

Blundell’s School in Devon has 50 acres of sports pitches and an additional 70 acres of landscaped parkland and campus grounds to maintain year-round and for the past five years, they’ve placed their trust in Iseki UK and Ireland.

Their fleet now includes two TG6507 50hp tractors, a TXG sub-compact tractor, a TH5370 35hp tractor, and two SXG ride-on cut-and-collect mowers.

“We’ve had our Iseki fleet for five years now, and they’ve been reliable, trustworthy, and always ready when we need them,” says Head Groundsman Josh Allen. “

Based in Tiverton, Blundell’s is a day and boarding school

Baroness best at Brighton

Brighton College has improved productivity in its grounds maintenance operation with the purchase of a new LM531 fairway mower from Baroness. Chosen for its cut quality and ease of use, the new machine will keep on top of mowing the heavily used rugby and cricket facilities at the Jubilee Ground and joins a Baroness LM281 which has been delivering reliable service at the College’s Home Ground for the last four years.

Head Groundsperson Adrian Brunton oversees a dedicated team of five and, together with a separate gardens team, they manage the three sites which make up the college, prep school and pre-prep school. The grounds are used intensively – not only by pupils but also local sports clubs and even international teams, most recently the New Zealand Women’s Rugby squad as part of their World Cup preparations.

With such high levels of usage, maintaining consistent playing surfaces is key as Adrian explains: “It was partly down to our relationship with Lister Wilder that we really got familiar with Baroness. We purchased an LM281 triple for the Home Ground and that has delivered on all fronts.”

“The results, reliability and aftercare we’ve had with that machine meant that, when the time came to upgrade to a wider mower for the Jubilee Ground, we didn’t look anywhere else.”

The new Baroness LM531 is powered by a 25hp Kubota engine and features five 22in cutting units which offer high productivity for large areas and contour following ability.

Adrian notes, “The cut quality is outstanding. The cylinders keep their edge to deliver a consistent, high-quality finish from the start of the job to the end.”

He adds, “This machine also enables us to cut down to 10mm which is lower than our previous mower and will give us a better playing surface particularly for cricket.”

Advanced professional battery zero-turn mowers

The Cramer OptimusZ range represents the next generation of professional zero-turn mowers.

Engineered for commercial landscaping, Optimus Z delivers the power, runtime, and durability required to handle the most demanding mowing operations.

Every Optimus product undergoes 1,000 hours of rigorous testing, ensuring long-term reliability in intensive professional use.

Powered by 82V technology and an advanced three-motor cutting system, OptimusZ provides consistent torque, clean cutting performance, and maximum efficiency across large areas.

The range offers cutting decks from 92 cm to 182 cm, equipped with a high-performance threeblade system that optimizes airflow, improves mulching, and ensures a precise, even cut. Combined with rear discharge capability, this design delivers superior results in a wide range of mowing conditions.

Designed for productivity, OptimusZ can operate up to 8 hours on a single charge and cover up to 100,000 m², reducing downtime while maintaining consistent performance throughout the working day.

Battery options of 8 kWh, 24 kWh, and 36 kWh, built with advanced

LFP MEGA technology, provide safe, powerful, and durable energy for professional fleets.

The PowrTraq Smart Drive system uses a beltless architecture with five independent motors, delivering exceptional traction, agility, and control on slopes of up to 20°. Combined with a reinforced frame, intelligent connectivity via 4G/GPS IoT, and batteries rated for 2,000 charge cycles, OptimusZ sets a new benchmark for electric commercial mowing.

Cramer

Enquiry 57

Zero-turn means zero hassle

Bobcat’s mower line includes four zero-turn ride-on mowers, the ZT2000, ZT3000, ZT3500 and ZT6000.

Whether you are a contractor or a municipality, Bobcat mowers empower users to get more done in less time, thanks to their superior mowing speed, outstanding manoeuvrability and agility on the job site.

This is all thanks to the zeroturn concept - which enables the operator to move around the lawn with precision and confidence, easily avoiding obstacles like trees or poles.

Bobcat zero-turn ride-on mowers are powered by Kawasaki engines from 16-24 HP and have hydrostatic transaxles. The ZT2000 can be equipped with 122 cm (48 inch) and 132 cm (52 inch) TufDeck Pro cutting systems and has a maximum mowing speed of 11 km/h. The ZT3000 can be equipped with 122 cm (48 inch), 132 cm (52 inch) or 155 cm (61 inch) TufDeck Pro cutting systems and has a maximum mowing speed of 12.8 km/h.

The ZT3500 zero-turn ride-on mower also has Hydro-Gear transaxles and reaches a speed of up to 16 km/h. This mower

offers optimal comfort thanks to the comfortable, mechanically suspended seat; even on uneven terrain. It is also equipped with a ROPS construction, two fuel tanks and a durable TufDeck Pro mowing system.

The ZT6000 can be equipped with 132 cm (52 inch) or 155 cm (61 inch) AirFX cutting systems and has a maximum mowing speed of 19.3 km/h. The ZT6000 provides an easy ride thanks to the 4400 drive system that minimizes vibration and noise, giving the operator even more comfort and control.

Bobcat

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Experience the iconic lawn tractor brand

The trusted and well-loved Lawnflite name is back with an all-new lineup of 11 high-performance lawn tractor models, designed to help dealers confidently meet customer demand while delivering superior turf care, maximum precision, and effortless operator comfort.

As part of the reintroduction, Barrus Area Sales Managers will be taking the new machines directly to dealers, giving them the chance to see what the new generation of Lawnflite tractors is all about.

talk through specifications, positioning, and opportunities ahead of the launch. It’s a chance for dealers to get reacquainted with a name that many customers already know and trust, and to explore the potential of the new models before they arrive in market.

Will Timmis, Head of Outdoor Divisions at Barrus, said: “Lawnflite has always been a trusted and well-loved brand in the UK, and we’re thrilled to be bringing it back. Dealers who see the range for themselves will quickly understand the performance, build quality, and value on offer. Combined with Barrus’ strong dealer support network, this is a compelling opportunity to offer customers a proven, iconic product.”

Lawnflite is one of the UK’s most recognised and trusted lawn tractor names. Even today, Direct Collect is widely used as a general term to describe rear discharge tractors - a registered trademark owned by Barrushighlighting the brand’s enduring heritage and recognition.

As Lawnflite returns, Barrus is supporting dealers by taking the new tractors out on the road, with Area Sales Managers visiting dealerships to showcase the range and

The new Lawnflite tractor range will begin arriving in the UK from March 2026. Dealers are encouraged to get in touch to book a viewing and reserve stock ahead of the launch.

The Pictorial Meadows successional flowering solution

At Pictorial Meadows®, we are driven by a passion for creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.

Our goal? To design environments that are sustainable, visually captivating and responsive to the needs of both people and nature.

One of the most significant challenges is delivering landscapes that remain visually appealing across multiple months without constant intervention. This is where a successional flowering meadow offers a practical and highly effective solution.

Successional flowering is the art of designing plant communities where different species bloom in a carefully planned sequence, creating dynamic and evolving displays of colour and texture throughout the growing season. This approach can offer yearround appeal, ecological benefits and reduced maintenance.

Successional flowering is core to the design of all our meadow

products: annual seed mixes, perennial seed mixes and perennial meadow turf.

Pictorial Meadows® has perfected this concept through meticulous research, understanding not only the timing of each bloom, but also how plants interact. For landscape professionals, successional flowering meadows provide the perfect balance of low maintenance and high impact, making them an ideal choice. Choosing a successional flowering meadow not only ensures an evolving display of colour and texture but also reduces the workload by freeing up time and resources while delivering outstanding results.

Pictorial Meadows® is part of The Green Estate CIC and offers a range of designer wildflower seed mixes and turf, alongside a professional meadow creation, management and consultation service.

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DSV Seed helps club reach new heights

The quality of the playing surfaces at Crowborough Beacon Golf Club is the result of passion, precision – and the right seed.

Course Manager Luke Jenkins has been achieving outstanding results using DSV’s PRO Summer Sport and PRO Rye Fairway mixtures from the EUROGRASS range, both of which have played a key role in improving the course’s playability and presentation.

Developed specifically for professional turf use, the EUROGRASS Pro mixtures are composed of carefully selected grass species and varieties to meet the highest standards of performance. Each blend is designed with the end user in mind – considering soil type, climate, intended use, and

maintenance practices – to ensure exceptional establishment, density, and durability.

A big part of that success, Luke says, comes down to using the right seed mixtures. “On the tees, we use PRO Summer Sport, which gives us quick germination and excellent wear tolerance,” he explains. “We’re repairing divots every day, and because our tees are small, I need grass to

be growing within a week. The DSV mix establishes really fast, gives great colour, and stands up to heavy play.”

For the fairways, Luke relies on PRO Rye Fairway, a 70/30 blend of fescue and ryegrass that balances strength with a natural fescue finish.

With over two decades of experience, Pictorial Meadows® specialist mixes combine aesthetic impact, ecological value and reliable performance. The UK’s largest selection of bespoke seed and wildflower turf mixes, alongside expert meadow consultation, installation and long-term aftercare options.

Build sustainable landscapes with wildflowers

In today’s landscaping sector, expectations are higher than ever.

Clients want colour, impact and fast results, but they also want sustainability, biodiversity and long-term value. That’s where Pro Flora and Colour Boost from DLF give landscapers a genuine professional edge.

When specifications call for ecological credibility and native provenance, Pro Flora delivers. Developed to recreate defined habitats including wetlands, dry grasslands, coastal areas, acid soils and shaded environments. These mixtures allow landscapers to confidently meet biodiversity targets and planning conditions.

With production consolidated at DLF’s UK head office in Inkberrow, quality control is

seamless. Nearly 50 species are grown across 30 hectares, with seed collected in collaboration with local landowners to preserve wild genetics and ensure full traceability. Precision drilling, GPS-guided cultivation and purpose-built cleaning facilities produce seed cleaned to 99.8% purity.

For landscapers, this means dependable establishment, consistent performance and mixtures that perform as specified, reducing costly call-backs and ensuring long-term habitat success.

Where projects demand immediate visual return, Colour Boost provides rapid establishment and long-lasting colour. Combining wildflowers with selected garden flowering species, these mixtures are ideal for parks, developments, highways, commercial landscapes and golf courses.

Designed for ease of establishment, Colour Boost requires relatively low seasonal input, helping reduce water use and chemical dependency while delivering strong floral performance. Sown in spring into warm soils and positioned in full sun, the mixtures create vibrant displays that enhance user engagement while supporting pollinators and wildlife.

For landscapers balancing budgets, timelines and environmental responsibility, Pro Flora and Colour Boost offer practical, specification-ready solutions. Together, they enable professionals to create landscapes that are not only visually impressive but ecologically resilient and built to thrive.

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Native and unique wildflower ranges

Wild Flower Lawns and Meadows supply unique native wildflower products, many containing wild orchids.

The company was founded by Colin Reader, who has over

25 years’ experience creating, managing and advising on wildflower areas across the UK.

Clients have included BBC Countryfile, the South Downs National Park, The

National Trust, Natural England, garden designers, landscapers and national newspapers and magazines.

The company specialises in everything related to native

wildflower meadows and lawns. Products include species rich native wildflower seed mixtures containing wild orchids and wildflower turf with native orchid seed, available for nationwide delivery.

Yellow Rattle seed and plugs are also supplied to help naturally control grasses, along with wildflower plants and plug collections that can be planted directly into lawns or meadow areas.

All seed supplied is of 100% UK native provenance, helping support bees, butterflies and a wider biodiversity, while also meeting BNG requirements.

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PURE PERFORMANCE

Eurograss Pro Range – New exclusive range created by top breeder DSV

High performance grass mixtures specially selected for professional sports surfaces.

Contact our team on: 01295 758800 www.dsv-uk.co.uk/products/amenity @DSVEUROGRASS