kent - LJN Blog Posts - Landscape Juice Network2024-03-29T01:22:08Zhttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/kentCollege 3G Pitch Gets Revivedhttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/college-3g-pitch-gets-revived2014-10-08T11:39:46.000Z2014-10-08T11:39:46.000ZFusion Mediahttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/FusionMedia<div><p>Crown Woods College in Eltham, South East London have become the latest sports facility to benefit from the specialist artificial surface cleaning from Replay Maintenance – one of the UK’s leading synthetic sports pitch maintenance providers.</p><p>The full size 3G pitch, which was installed in April 2011 as part of the London 2012 legacy, boasts some of the best sports facilities in the area. As part of the service agreement with G4S Facilities Management, who are in charge of the maintenance of the whole site, Replay Maintenance’s Revive® Plus+ process was required to ensure the pitch is kept to a high standard in terms of playability and appearance.</p><p>The process not only restores the playing qualities of the artificial surface, but also safeguards its projected life expectancy and thus protecting the college’s initial investment.</p><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314198890?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="450" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314198890?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="450" class="align-left"/></a>The Replay Revive® Plus+ process extends the life of an artificial sports pitch and minimises the risk of injury to players by improving surface grip and reducing compaction. It uses a specially developed, single operator machine to remove contaminants from the infill of the surface. Rotary brushes penetrate deeper into the infill compared to static brushes, which are commonly used, breaking up the contamination and removing it with a powerful vacuum filter system for disposal off-site. The infill is then filtered before it is distributed back onto the surface. It helps reduce compaction of the surface and lifts the pile of the carpet whilst enhancing its porosity and helps maintain the playing characteristics.</p><p>The artificial turf pitch is used each day by the students with the local community also able to use it on evenings and weekends. G4S handle the in-house day-to-day maintenance, whilst utilising the more specialised equipment and knowledge of the Replay Maintenance staff on a planned, regular basis for deep cleans and repairs.</p><p>"I used Replay Maintenance on a previous contract at Tower Hamlets for repairs and cleaning of the artificial surface,” explains James O’Brien, site manager at Crown Woods College for G4S. “I had always received an excellent service from Replay and in particular Nick Harris from the company, who is always on hand if we need any advice or have any concerns.”</p><p>"We have been extremely impressed by their overall level of work and service in maintaining our artificial pitch. Replay has some excellent equipment which cleans the surface to a very high standard and when they finished their deep clean, it is like a new pitch. I’ve received extremely positive comments from all users of the pitch since the most recent clean. In fact a local professional football team, who also use the pitch on a regular basis, commented on how it is a great surface to play on – I would definitely recommend Replay Maintenance."</p><p>For further information, please contact Replay Maintenance on 01636 640 506 or visit the company’s website <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.replaymaintenance.co.uk">www.replaymaintenance.co.uk</a>. You can also follow the company on Twitter: @ReplayMaintain.</p></div>New Etesia & Pellenc Dealer for Kenthttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/new-etesia-pellenc-dealer-for-kent2014-08-19T09:55:20.000Z2014-08-19T09:55:20.000ZEtesia UKhttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/EtesiaUK<div><p>Godfreys Golf and Turf, based in Sevenoaks Kent and with two other depots in Sussex and Berkshire, have been confirmed as Etesia’s newest dealer for both Etesia mowers & Pellenc battery-powered tools to serve the Kent area.</p><p>Operating from modern facilities in ‘the garden of England’, Godfreys Golf and Turf employs close to 60 people, and is a specialist supplier of top quality professional, domestic and forestry equipment. They also have a proven track record of providing highly professional after-sales support to all sectors of their markets throughout the area.</p><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314186704?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="450" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314186704?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="450" class="align-left"/></a>Favoured by many of the UK's top councils as well as landscapers and groundsmen, including National Trust gardens, both Etesia and Pellenc has gained a reputation for producing equipment that is highly reliable with low maintenance, making them the number one choice for many users.</p><p>In the last five years, Pellenc has gained market recognition by offering a unique range of ‘zero emission’ battery-powered handheld tools, thanks to the development of Lithium-ion ultra-high performance batteries. This technology, which is exclusive to Pellenc, allows for a drastic reduction in the production of greenhouse gases and noise pollution. It is also comfortable for users, meets new sustainable development demands and offers excellent economic profitability. All tools now come with a comprehensive three year warranty.</p><p>Peter Bateman, Godfreys managing director, commented: “For over 20 years Etesia has been providing customers with professional grass maintenance machinery. Godfreys was previously an Etesia dealer until five years ago and we are very pleased to become their Kent dealer once again.</p><p>The addition of their Pellenc range of battery-powered tools will strengthen the expanding range of environmentally-friendly products that we already have to offer our customers.”</p><p>Ian Collington, southern area manager for Etesia added, “Godfreys Golf and Turf has a proven track record of delivering a trusted service throughout Kent, and we are delighted to welcome them into our dealer network. We have secured the services of one of the top performing dealers in the south of England; a company that has a dedication to serving customer needs and a care for the environment. All this together with their experience in the market will serve us well; they are a perfect fit for our business and our products.”</p><p>For further information, please contact Etesia UK on 01295 680120 or visit <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.etesia.co.uk">www.etesia.co.uk</a></p><p>For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Etesia UK on Twitter @EtesiaUK and like the company’s Facebook page – <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.facebook.com/EtesiaUK">www.facebook.com/EtesiaUK</a>. You can also view the latest Etesia videos by visiting <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.youtube.com/EtesiaUK">www.youtube.com/EtesiaUK</a></p></div>Leave an impression that will be the talk of the clubhousehttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/leave-an-impression-that-will-be-the-talk-of-the-clubhouse2014-04-29T09:44:02.000Z2014-04-29T09:44:02.000ZFusion Mediahttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/FusionMedia<div><p>Bunkers are a regular clubhouse talking point – often as a negative one – but leading supplier of golf course supplies Sherriff Amenity now offers something that will raise their profile favourably and be a useful course care aid - the Bunkerstamp.</p><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314210187?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="450" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314210187?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="450" class="align-left"/></a>It is a specially made polymer rubber mould, measuring 57cm x 33cm, with the words ‘Thanks for raking’ and the image of a bunker rake. This means of providing clubs with a gentle, novel and effective reminder to members and players to do the right thing after playing a bunker shot is already creating quite a buzz at many of its golf club customers, says Kevin Whitby, marketing manager at Sherriff Amenity.</p><p>“All greenstaff have to do after raking is step firmly on to the Bunkerstamp to leave an impression in the bunker surface”.</p><p>In normal weather conditions a Bunkerstamp impression will last all day with very little deterioration. It is a way of saying thank you to golfers for helping to look after the course.</p><p>The Bunkerstamp, which should last many years, comes with a 12-month manufacturer’s guarantee.</p><p>For further information, please contact Sherriff Amenity on 01638 721 888 or visit <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.sherriffamenity.com">www.sherriffamenity.com</a></p><p>For more news and insightful views, you can follow Sherriff Amenity on Twitter @SherriffAmenity</p></div>A New Year, the Same Challengehttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/a-new-year-the-same-challenge2014-01-15T11:31:40.000Z2014-01-15T11:31:40.000ZFusion Mediahttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/FusionMedia<div><p>Alan Abel, a Complete Weed Control franchisee for over 30 years, gives his thoughts for 2014.</p><p>The whole year kicks off again with the annual pilgrimage to BTME and Harrogate. It’s so hard to believe 12 months have passed so quickly.</p><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314179812?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="400" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314179812?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="400" class="align-left"/></a>At least those months have on the whole been kind to turf managers. As Christmas and New Year celebrations happen, the weather has taken a turn for the worse and again sports facilities across the country are saturated with winter rains.</p><p>With so much top class rugby and football action to fit in during the depths of winter, it again falls to the groundsmen to toil against the elements to keep sporting events a possibility.</p><p>Temperatures are high, and many grasses have been struggling to know if they are going to shut down or not, due to the odd very cold night followed by maybe a few into double figures.</p><p>Harrogate-20130122-00427This has led to anaemic looking swards that have needed a pep-up to keep them strong against disease, especially fusarium that has been particularly strong in the run up to the New Year.</p><p>Iprodione has been used extensively during the past month to try and keep the menace at bay.</p><p>Groundsmen have also been using fertilizers and iron to try and keep grasses looking healthy and giving nutrients to help them through the particularly wet and mild prevailing conditions.</p><p>On pre-Christmas visits to clients, it was notable how many had sprayed against leatherjackets and had been amazed by the populations there were in fine turf. During the 2013 late summer there were clouds of daddy long legs that flew up when one walked through grass areas. Some of these laid thousands of eggs and these leatherjackets are doing untold damage underground and under our noses that only manifests when it’s too late.</p><p>Therefore, an Insurance Ppolicy application of CYREN @ 1.5 litres per hectare with a wetter and water buffer is an economical and cost effective way of protecting precious swards.</p><p>It should also be noted that a second application also brought many grubs to the surface, as the problem seems to have changed cycle and appears to be an all year round threat.</p><p>Moss is rearing its ugly head again in all types of swards. We are quite impotent when it comes to its treatment.</p><p>There are products on the market, but we all remember dichlorophen with affection!<br/> It’s no longer available and we have products such as JEWEL (carfentrazone / mecoprop) from Everris that will control mosses and weeds as a double action. It’s better to wait till good growing conditions before application.</p><p>MOGETON (quinoclamine) from Certis is available to use on golf greens with application only through a watering can at high water volumes. It is effective and where silvermoss is the problem, then this product must be the choice.</p><p>Iron products at high rates are available and should be used in conjunction with light scarification where possible, two weeks following applications, to give the iron a chance to work. This particularly appertains to golf fairways.</p><p>With the wet weather, worms become a nuisance, and every worm cast is a potential seed bed for a weed to set. (We can talk selective weed control later in the season!)</p><p>Therefore using carbendazim @ 4 litres per hectare and combining this with Cyren (as discussed), gives a double control of worms and leatherjackets.</p><p>I reckon part of the reason years seem to go quicker is that when you are involved in outdoor type industries, you are always thinking of a few months down the line. At this time we are all thinking about spring and what that may bring. Preparing for spring by getting sports fields, bowling greens, cricket tables etc. soil sampled, will stand you in good stead by seeing exactly what nourishment the ground requires. This means fore-warned is fore-armed and ready to get the sports surface up to top standard as soon as the weather allows.</p><p>At Complete Weed Control; we can help and provide application services with everything discussed in this article including facilitating soil samples. All our team are Amenity Assured and details can be found on our website. If the weather gets wintry and cold, Complete Ice Control can also spread salt and snow clear where necessary.</p><p>We wish you all a Happy New Year and enjoy BTME. Be sure to visit our Stand.</p><p>For more information, please contact Complete Weed Control’s National office on 01325 324 277 or visit <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.completeweedcontrol.co.uk">www.completeweedcontrol.co.uk</a>. You can also follow CWC on Twitter @CWCLimited for more news, reviews and insightful views.</p></div>York stone pavement stolen from Rochester streethttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/york-stone-pavement-stolen-from-rochester-street2013-11-28T17:00:00.000Z2013-11-28T17:00:00.000ZLandscape Juicehttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/LandscapeJuice<div><p>Thousands of pounds of paving slabs have been stolen from a street in Rochester, Kent.</p>
<p>The Yorkstone slabs, reported to be worth more than £7,000, were dug up at the junction of St Margaret's Street and Boley Hill.</p>
<p>It is believed stolen highways barriers might have been set up to make it look as if legitimate work was being carried out on the 40 square meters of paving.</p>
<p>Read full story Kent Online: <a href="http://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway_messenger/news/stolen-slabs-9470/">http://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway_messenger/news/stolen-slabs-9470/</a></p>
</div>Sherriff Amenity’s Pledge to Cricket Groundsmenhttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/sherriff-amenity-s-pledge-to-cricket-groundsmen2013-08-13T10:12:38.000Z2013-08-13T10:12:38.000ZFusion Mediahttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/FusionMedia<div><p>Midway through the 2013 cricket season, Sherriff Amenity, one of the leading turf care and sports equipment suppliers in the UK, continue to give on-going support to the work of the Surrey Cricket Groundsman’s Association.</p><p>The 60-plus delegates and guest of honour ECB Managing Director and MCC President-elect Mike Gatting at this year’s SCGA seminar at the Kia Oval heard about the latest in pitch grass disease and weed identification and control from Bayer CropScience advisor Eleanor Jenks. Her presentation, which included details of the company’s latest pest and weed apps, had been arranged by Sherriff Amenity as part of its sponsorship of the event.</p><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314127288?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="350" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314127288?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350" class="align-left"/></a>A recent event held at Farnham Cricket Club, Nr Guildford, organised by the association, saw over 20 groundsmen attend a ‘one stop shop to renovation’ evening featuring some practical work as well as a Q&A session.</p><p>The SCGA, first set up in 2003, aims to support cricket groundsmen at all levels by providing training courses, a pitch advisory service, and machinery hire for renovation work. Its Pitch Advisory Team will inspect squares, outfields and machinery at any club or school looking to upgrade facilities or apply for grant funding.</p><p>“We are delighted to carry on supporting the SCGA in what it does for cricket at pitch level,” said Sherriff Amenity’s marketing manager Kevin Whitby. “Mike Gatting’s presence at its annual seminar at the Kia Oval shows how seriously its work is being taken. We are pleased to be working in partnership with the association and look forward to working with them at future events.”</p><p>“We’ve had a good relationship with Sherriff Amenity over the last few years,” said Chris Bullen, Surrey Cricket Development Manager. “To be able to have a representative from Sherriff Amenity here this evening to offer advice to any groundsmen is very much appreciated.”</p><p>For further information, please contact Sherriff Amenity on 01638 721 888 or email info@sherriff-amenity.com</p><p>For more news and insightful views, you can follow Sherriff Amenity on Twitter @SherriffAmenity.</p></div>Leeds United Switch to Dennishttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/leeds-united-switch-to-dennis2013-08-01T14:30:13.000Z2013-08-01T14:30:13.000ZFusion Mediahttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/FusionMedia<div><p>Npower Championship football club, Leeds United, has purchased two Dennis G860 34” professional cylinder mowers, complete with a range of interchangeable cassettes, to help maintain the Elland Road pitch.</p><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314122592?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="350" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314122592?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350" class="align-left"/></a>Head Groundsman Kiel Barrett explained that the decision to switch from their previous supplier had been driven primarily by the amount of turf maintenance tasks that he can now perform with just one machine.</p><p>“Our previous mowers were a lot heavier and although they were only six years old they were becoming unreliable,” explained Kiel. “We had a Dennis G860 which was ten years old and it’s never missed a beat, so when it came to buying a new mower, we spoke to other groundsmen to see what they were using – everyone we spoke to was using Dennis; so it was a natural choice for us.”</p><p>The pair of Dennis G860’s gives Kiel and his assistant Oliver Brown a consistent cut quality and height, with the added benefit of rolling which produces a visually superior finish. “Many of our games are televised and the G860’s give us a precise sharp cut that we need for the best possible presentation.”</p><p>Kiel chose two 8 bladed cutting cylinders and two tungsten tipped verti-cutter cassettes for regular thatch control, which as he explains mean the club has had to purchase less maintenance equipment.</p><p>“Verti-cutting is of major importance at Elland Road, so being able to do this with the same unit as what we use for mowing is a major benefit. They are also extremely lightweight at just 166kgs and extremely easy to use. The cassettes are very quick to change – we can change from cutting to verti-cutting or brushing in quick time.”</p><p>With a rich heritage of producing professional mowers used at top sporting venues around the world including the World Cup finals and European Championships, Dennis is renowned with groundsmen looking for the perfect finish.</p><p>“The build quality of the G860 is of an extremely high standard. Dennis as a company has been excellent to work with and Ian Waddington, our area sales manager, has been extremely helpful. We see Dennis as one of our key suppliers and I would have no hesitation in recommending Dennis to anyone looking for a versatile football pitch mower.”</p><p>For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact Dennis 01332 824 777 or visit <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.dennisuk.com">www.dennisuk.com</a></p><p>For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow Dennis on Twitter @DennisMowers and like the company’s Facebook page – <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.facebook.com/DennisMowersUK">www.facebook.com/DennisMowersUK</a>. You can also view the latest Dennis videos by visiting <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.youtube.com/DennisMowers">www.youtube.com/DennisMowers</a>.</p></div>Keith Kent Chooses SISIS Maintenance Equipmenthttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/keith-kent-chooses-sisis-maintenance-equipment2013-05-21T06:50:26.000Z2013-05-21T06:50:26.000ZFusion Mediahttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/FusionMedia<div><p>Working with trusted industry partners, Keith Kent has devised a rugby club pitch maintenance equipment package. The package is designed to meet the needs of rugby union clubs that aim to deliver a high quality pitch maintenance programme. The range of machinery includes a SISIS Quadraplay, SISIS Multitiner and Iseki TM3265 tractor.</p><p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314207120?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="350" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314207120?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="350" class="align-left"/></a>Keith Kent, RFU Head Groundsman said: “SISIS equipment is a great option for any rugby club looking to improve and keep their playing surfaces playable all season long. With the ability to use four implements at any one time, the Quadraplay allows a club to carry out a number of key maintenance tasks on their pitch and the Multitiner enables clubs to aerate their pitches on a regular basis.”</p><p>As we move towards the rugby world cup in 2015; rugby clubs throughout the country will be looking to use this opportunity as the catalyst to grow their club. In order to be ready to deliver this, the RFU is challenging them to get ‘Fit for 15’. Part of this challenge will be to ensure that clubs have the appropriate pitch quality and capacity ready for the influx of new players.</p><p>“Better pitch maintenance is a key element to the running and playing of the game,” said Ted Mitchell, RFU’s Club Facilities Technical Manager. “Keith has visited over 250 grassroots clubs in the past three years, promoting better pitch maintenance and dealing with local issues. Following his recommendation, we spoke at length with SISIS and are delighted to be able to announce this package to clubs that are in membership of the RFU.”</p><p>Simple design with low maintenance, the SISIS Multitiner is a drum type tractor mounted aerator, which is ideal for use on sports fields and fine turf surfaces. Fast and effective to improve drainage and encourage better root growth; the aerator incorporates quick release solid tines and a working depth of up to 100mm.</p><p>The SISIS Quadraplay is a versatile pitch maintenance system. Connecting to any tractor with a 3-point-linkage, the versatile one pass maintenance system includes a mounted frame with four implements. The implements can be arranged in any order and can be lifted out of use when not required. A single pass allows up to four operations to be carried out simultaneously including surface aeration, sward cleansing, rolling and brushing, which when combined together, enable groundsman to prepare and maintain a pitch to the desired standard as well as looking aesthetically pleasing.</p><p>Commenting on the partnership, SISIS Customer Manager Roger Moore said: “We are delighted that our equipment has been chosen as part of Keith Kent’s pitch maintenance package. The Multiner and Quadraplay system are ideal products for enhancing and maintaining rugby pitches. We fully endorse the ‘Lead up and Legacy’ project that the RFU have put in place in creating better facilities for current and future generations of the rugby community.”</p><p>For further information or a no obligation demonstration, please contact SISIS on 01332 824 777 or visit <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.sisis.com" target="_blank">www.sisis.com</a></p><p>For more news, reviews and insightful views, you can follow SISIS on Twitter <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.twitter.com/SISISMachinery" target="_blank">@SISISMachinery</a> and like the company’s Facebook page – <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.facebook.com/SISISMachinery" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/SISISMachinery</a>. You can also view the latest SISIS videos by visiting <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.youtube.com/SISISMachinery" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/SISISMachinery</a></p></div>Sonic Landscaping achieves Safecontractor accreditation award.https://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/sonic-landscaping-achieves2011-05-05T16:30:00.000Z2011-05-05T16:30:00.000ZSteve Sonic Grounds Maintenancehttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/SteveSonicGroundsMaintenance<div><p>Top Safety Accreditation for Sonic Landscaping.<br/> <br/> <br/>Sonic Landscaping is one of the latest group of successful companies to join a leading edge scheme, designed to help industry improve its safety record.</p><p>Sonic Landscaping proprietor, Steve Wilkinson said: "Sonic Landscaping is extremely happy in becoming the latest company in joining the Safecontractor scheme. This is just one of several government run schemes we are going to be joining and this is a huge step in the right direction for expanding the business. Sonic Landscaping has wanted to demonstrate its Health and Safety credentials to its current customers and potential customers for some time now. The Safecontractor accreditation we now hold will hopefully open new doors in obtaining new contract work and current clients have already expressed their approval for the new award Sonic Landscaping has obtained."<br/> <br/> The Kent-based firm recently received accreditation from SAFEcontractor, a programme which recognises very high standards of health and safety practise amongst UK contractors.<br/>Sonic Landscaping is principally involved in the commercial grounds maintenance and flat maintenance sector offering grounds maintenance and flat maintenance to an array of customers such as management companies, housing associations, schools and more.<br/><br/>The company’s application for SAFEcontractor accreditation was driven by the need for a uniform standard across the business.<br/><br/>SAFEcontractor accreditation is expected to enhance the company’s ability to attract new contracts and its commitment to safety will be viewed positively by its insurers when the company liability policy is up for renewal.<br/><br/>SAFEcontractor is applicable to most sectors although it is particularly relevant to food manufacture, property, facilities management, retail and leisure sectors, all of which are big users of contract services.<br/><br/>John Kinge, Head of Risk at SAFEcontractor said, "Major organisations can no longer run the risk of employing contractors who are not able to prove that they have sound health and safety policies".<br/><br/>"More companies need to understand the importance of adopting good risk management in the way that Sonic Landscaping has done. The firm’s high standard has set an example, which hopefully will be followed by other companies within the sector".<br/><br/>Under the SAFEcontractor system, businesses undergo a vetting process, which examines health and safety procedures and their track record for safe practice. Those companies meeting the high standard are included on a database, which is accessible to registered users only via a website, <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.safecontractor.com">www.safecontractor.com</a><br/><br/>Employer-organisations who sign up to the scheme can access the database, enabling them to vet potential contractors before they even set foot on site. These employers agree that, as users of the scheme, they will engage only those who have received accreditation.<br/><br/>Over one hundred and fifty major nation-wide businesses, from several key sectors, have signed up to use the scheme when selecting contractors for services such as building, cleaning, maintenance, refurbishment or electrical and mechanical work.<br/><br/>For further information contact:<br/>Steve Wilkinson- Sonic Landscaping Tel: 0208-249-8725/ Mob; 07730-565-414</p><p>Email; <a rel="nofollow" href="mailto:mail@soniclandscaping.co.uk">mail@soniclandscaping.co.uk</a></p><p>Web; <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.soniclandscaping.co.uk">www.soniclandscaping.co.uk</a></p><p><br/></p></div>Garden Design London: A week in the life of a London Based Garden Design and Build Company: Week 9 2011https://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/garden-design-london-a-week-in-22011-03-04T16:35:21.000Z2011-03-04T16:35:21.000ZKatrina Kieffer- Wellshttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/KatrinaKiefferWells<div><p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314207258?profile=original"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314207258?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-center"/></a></p><ul><li>Claire and Matt have presented a design for a family garden in Hackney. The landscaping will include a large <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/low-maintenance-garden-design-greenwich-london.html">artificial lawn</a>, gabion planters and <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/perspex-screen-garden-design-hawkwell.html">decorative screens</a>. The client is very happy and, subject to a little tweaking of the quote, has indicated that they would like to book dates in for the build.</li><li>Looking forward to seeing the published article from Romanian home and garden magazine, Casa și grădina and Villa Design. We have supplied descriptive copy and some high resolution images of one of our <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/kitchen-garden-design-leyton-london.html">past gardens</a>. They have expressed an interest in including our gardens in subsequent issues.</li><li>Our teams have been working hard this week. Julian and Rob have been making progress on our new <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/generalchitchat/a-contemporary-urban-family-garden-in-harrow">garden build in Harrow</a>, excavating a large amount of earth with a mini-digger. The excavation is nearly complete and once they have finished dispoing of the soil, they will be ready to start laying the Oak decking and sandstone paving. Liam and Matt have been at the Manor House, which thankfully is almost complete.</li><li>Claire has booked a consultation for a lady in Wanstead interested in our <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/garden_design_landscaping_services.html">bespoke garden design and build service</a>.</li><li>A previous client, whose <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/portfolio.html">garden we completed last August</a>, has recommended us to a friend in Clapham. We are in the process of arranging a consultation.</li><li><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/">Earth Designs</a> have been asked to devise a planting plan for a client whose garden was damaged by a fallen tree. The planting plan must take into consideration the replacement of her mature specimens. </li></ul></div>Garden Design London: A week in the life of a London Based Garden Design and Build Company: Week 8 2011https://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/garden-design-london-a-week-in-12011-02-25T12:27:46.000Z2011-02-25T12:27:46.000ZKatrina Kieffer- Wellshttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/KatrinaKiefferWells<div><p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314209176?profile=original"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314209176?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full"/></a></p><ul><li>Design consultation in Victoria went well, the space was a small, over looked terrace so the challenge was to create privacy but not allow the space to feel enclosed. Ideas for lighting include a net of fairy lights to be suspended from a pergola or possibly <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/funky-roof-terrace-garden-design-river-thames-east-london.html">funky exterior furniture</a> which also light up.</li><li>Finishing off the <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/generalchitchat/a-modern-garden-design-for-family-garden-in-sevenoaks">garden build in Sevenoaks, Kent</a>, final plants have gone in, the raised bed and walls have been painted and the Earth Designs bespoke day bed constructed.</li><li>Work starts on Monday at our <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/generalchitchat/a-contemporary-urban-family-garden-in-harrow">garden build in Harrow</a>. Due to Matt’s other work commitments Claire will be getting her hands dirty with the team starting the clearance.</li><li>An editor of a Romanian home and garden design magazine has contacted us requesting permission to use shots of our gardens in their April issue. Katrina has previously designed a garden in Romania. <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.gardenpresents.co.uk/">Postal design vouchers</a> are also available globally.</li><li>Confirmed appointment with a client who was given a <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.gardenpresents.co.uk/">garden design consultation voucher</a> as a present. The client is in the Isle of Dogs and wants some inspirational advise on a design for their balcony.</li><li>We are posting new blog articles based on garden buildings, including amongst other things, <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/thegardenshed/garden-pod-not-full-of-peas">outdoor offices</a> and <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/thegardenshed/garden-buildings-treetop-adventures">treeshouses</a>.</li><li>Garden design consultation with a client in Bow who would like An initial <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/garden_design_landscaping_services.html">consultation and a planting plan</a>.</li></ul></div>London Garden Design and Build Company: Week 4 2011https://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/london-garden-design-and-build2011-02-01T15:00:00.000Z2011-02-01T15:00:00.000ZKatrina Kieffer- Wellshttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/KatrinaKiefferWells<div><p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314194752?profile=original"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314194752?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full"/></a></p><p> </p><ul><li>A consultation client we visited before Christmas has decided to go ahead with a <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/portfolio.html">garden design in Kilburn, West London.</a></li><li>We have presented some interim layout drawings to our <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/party-garden-design-hackney-london.html">garden design client in Hackney</a>.</li><li>Still waiting to return to the Manor House. They should soon have completed the groundworks to the infinity pool surround and then we can return to finish laying the limestone marble paving.</li><li>As is usually the case after Christmas we have received several calls from people who were given one of our <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.gardenpresents.co.uk/">garden design vouchers</a> as a gift.</li><li><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/up.html">Lifestyle magazine Living</a> etc have been in touch to ask if we can supply some photos of our gardens for a feature they are running in a forthcoming issue.</li><li>Work on the <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/generalchitchat/a-modern-garden-design-for-family-garden-in-sevenoaks">garden landscape in Kent</a> is progressing well and the team have almost finished construction of the raised bed, <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/garden-office-garden-design-harrow.html">decking</a> and over half the paving.</li><li><div class="Body1">As I usually the case after Christmas we have received several calls from people who were given one of our garden design vouchers as a gift.</div></li></ul></div>Diary of a London Garden Design and Build Company: Week 3 2011https://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/diary-of-a-london-garden2011-01-21T16:00:00.000Z2011-01-21T16:00:00.000ZKatrina Kieffer- Wellshttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/KatrinaKiefferWells<div><p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314185315?profile=original"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314185315?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full"/></a></p><ul><li>Creative session with Kat for our garden design client in <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/moroccan-courtyard-garden-design-stoke-newington-london.html">Hackney</a>. Very enthusiastic client who is keen on exploring materials for the screens and making the kids area into a highly usable and fun space.</li><li>Going great guns at our garden build site in <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/generalchitchat/a-modern-garden-design-for-family-garden-in-sevenoaks">Sevenoaks, Kent</a>. The landscaping team are working hard to implement an exciting garden design. Raised beds and <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/decked-garden-design-kennington-london.html">decking</a> under construction.</li><li>Due to return to our garden build site at The Manor House in Hertfordshire on Monday to complete installation of the limestone paving around the Infinity Pool.</li><li>Claire has a <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.gardenpresents.co.uk/">garden design consultation</a> in east Finchley, North London booked for when she returns from holiday. Earth Designs has been recommended by a previous client. </li><li>Continuing work on the development and promotion of our <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/html/index.html">gardenpresents.co.uk</a> website which will be featuring our postal garden design and garden design consultation vouchers. </li><li>Claire completed her first garden design consultation since joining Earth Designs. All went well, watch this space...</li></ul></div>Week 2 2011: A week in the life of a London Garden Design and Build Companyhttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/week-2-2011-a-week-in-the-life2011-01-17T14:23:42.000Z2011-01-17T14:23:42.000ZKatrina Kieffer- Wellshttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/KatrinaKiefferWells<div><p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314193846?profile=original"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/3314193846?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" class="align-full"/></a></p><ul><li>Katrina enjoyed a successful trip to the Tate Modern and The Victoria & Albert museum with some garden design students last week. Inspiration came in many guises, from a chest of drawers to an art deco portable radio. Matt, our senior garden landscaper, accompanied us on the tour of London galleries. Seen here making the most of the tube journey by writing some blog copy! The <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/blog/generalchitchat/earth-designs-garden-design-school-garden-design-short-courses">garden design course</a> continues this week with an introduction to Google’s 3D CAD ‘Google Sketchup’.</li><li>Katrina is presenting a rooftop garden design to a client in Stepney this week – every inch of this small roof terrace has been utilised. This <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/">London garden design</a> features a bespoke dining pod and day bed.</li><li>The first <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/">garden design consultation</a> of the year starts with a visit to Hackney for Katrina, Claire and Matt, along with all the equipment needed to complete a site survey ready for the garden design to be produced.</li><li>The kitchen garden at The Manor House is nearing completion, despite the rain. Only the sealing and grouting remain and the team will be ready to move to the infinity pool area.</li><li>Claire’s will undertake her first garden design consultation for Earth Designs, for an garden design consultation voucher client in Lewisham.</li><li>We received an email from someone interested in a <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/">garden design and build for the roof terrace</a> of a school in Plaistow.</li><li>Katrina and Claire have been working on the creative for the new website for Earth Designs vouchers: <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/">garden postal designs</a> and <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.earthdesigns.co.uk/">garden design consultations</a>.</li></ul></div>Fed up with mowing your lawn?https://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/fed-up-with-mowing-your-lawn2010-04-25T23:00:00.000Z2010-04-25T23:00:00.000ZGraeme @ BGShttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/GraemeBGS<div><p>There comes a point in life when you can’t (or don't want to) undertake the mowing of your own lawn perhaps for health reasons, lack of time or equipment, whilst away on business or holiday.<br/><br/>Maybe you have tried to get that perfect lawn but somehow have never quite managed to archive this or perhaps you just need a helping hand to rectify a particular problem?<br/><br/>Looking after your lawn is hard work particularly if you want to develop and sustain a quality lawn and I am sure most home owners can think of any number of excuses not to mow the lawn!<br/><br/>I have clients that use to slave away mowing their lawn for three hours every Saturday, stay at homes mums (and dads) that just haven’t the time or energy, professional couples with hectic lifestyles to those clients who are no longer able to physically manage the work. For some of our elderly clients we are often viewed as the forth emergency service, they know we will be there every week and quite often we are their only visitors.<br/><br/>You may be surprised to know that help is at hand and probably more affordable than you think. Wherever you live there will be a local gardener to grass mowing companies be it a one man / lady to a national company ready to serve you. Not to mention the odd job man who is looking to earn some extra cash.<br/><br/>So if you are ready to relinquish the chore of mowing your lawn and are thinking of engaging the services of a specialist lawn cutting service provider I would suggest that the key points to look for are:<br/><br/><b>Formal qualifications / training</b> – Whilst anyone can cut a lawn, mowing a lawn correctly is an art and requires practice and training.<br/>Only personnel with the appropriate skills, abilities and competencies should be allowed to operate the machinery and that their technical competence is maintained through mandatory training programmes.<br/>Furthermore, if the operator is to undertake other services such as applying chemical treatments they must have the relevant qualifications. It is a legal requirement for operators who are spraying with professional pesticides to hold an NPTC pesticides certificate of competence, otherwise known as a spraying certificate or a pesticide license. (PA1 / PA6).<br/><br/><b>Number of staff</b> – The advantage of engaging a company over a one man band would be availability of resources to cover sickness and holidays. A two man team shouldn’t be more expensive than a sole operator as in theory they can work quicker and more efficiently. Lawn mowing and other associated gardening activities should be classed as high risk and depending upon the work involved it may not be prudent to have a lone worker.<br/><br/><b>Insurance</b> – whilst it is not a current legal requirement for a company to have Public Liability insurance you should seriously question if an operator doesn’t have this. Incidences can happen and whilst most policies it would probably be cheaper for the company to pay for the odd window to be re-glazed due to the excess on their insurance policy just think if the incidence was more serious?<br/><br/><b>Waste Disposal</b> –How will the operator dispose of the grass cuttings - If you require the operator to take the cuttings away this will reflect in the price – trade waste disposal isn’t cheap. If the green waste is taken away is the operator registered with the Environment Agency (in England)?. A business has a duty to ensure that any waste produce is handled in accordance with the law and safely disposed of. This is also for your protection as if your green waste is illegally disposed of, you could also be held responsible. Don’t be afraid to question how and where the waste will be disposed off. The operator can’t pass your green waste away as his own and sneak in to the local council tip and dispose of for free – There is a big crackdown on these types of operators and they will get caught!<br/><br/><b>References</b> – Remember you are inviting a stranger onto your property, You may even give him a key to your side gate or garage to gain access. If the operator can’t give any references you must question why. Asking for references and addresses of their current clients will enable you to see the type of work he / she does so that you can determine if the style of mowing or edging is right for you. If you do decide to talk with the operators other clients, it will give you an idea of other people's impression of his or her reliability as well as workmanship based on their opinion.<br/><b><br/>Equipment used</b> – The business of grass cutting is heavily dependant of using high quality professional equipment, the lawn mowers are the life and blood of the operation and may cut up to 30 lawns a day, five days a week for 30 plus weeks per year. A good operator will have a number of mowers in order to undertake any number of jobs from mowing formal lawns to rough cutting verges / banks to orchards. Back up mowers to cover machinery failures. You must ask the operator what equipment he has. If you want the classic striped lawn the operator must have a roller mower. Other questions to ask regarding equipment and services would be how the operator would ‘”edge up” This can be done by the strimmer, edging or hand shears. Does the operator have additional equipment for other services such as scarifying and aeration or would these be hired in as required?.<br/><br/><b>Risk Assessments and Health and Safety</b> – A good operator will write a formal risk assessment for each property. This will address any potential hazards, assessing risks and implementing preventative and protective measures. Similarly do they have a clearly defined H & S and conforms to the Health and Safety at work act.<br/><br/><b>Environmental policy</b> – Okay by the very nature of the business of mowing lawns - using petrol mowers and driving to and from jobs we do create a carbon footprint however a company should have a policy outlining their aims to safeguard, protect and enhance the environment by minimise any adverse effects of their operations by implementing procedures to prevent pollution to land, air and water, and reduce waste and consumption of natural resources wherever possible.<br/><br/><b>Length of time in business</b> – Whilst this isn’t always a reliable gauge of how good the operator is it can be useful to gain a better understanding of the company and their values.. Whilst some clients may assign value to the length of time a company has been in business remember that recently we have seen a number of well-established banks and other organisations folding so length of time in business could now be questionable.?<br/><br/><b>Business address</b> – Whilst it is not always necessary for a company to have formal business premises an operator should be able to provide you with a contact address and land line phone number.<br/><b><br/>Terms and conditions</b> – A detailed terms and conditions will outline any number of key points but ultimately this will also offer you clarity of the service being offered, cancellation options and responsibilities of both parties.<br/><b><br/>Method of payment</b> – A good operator will offer a number of methods for payment. Do be wary of anyone asking for cash only and do not pay anyone in advance of the work being performed unless there are special circumstances / requirements.<br/><br/>The above list isn’t exhaustive, you may well have a preference to engaging a company that is a member of such organisations as the Institute of Groundsmanship (IOG), Landscape Juice, APL, BALI or even Check-a-Trade. If the company is limited or sole trader, VAT registered or not.. These are personal preferences and may not necessary translate as if one company is better than the other,<br/><br/>Once you have selected the company or individual that best suits your requirements it would just be a matter of what the cost is and hopefully when can we start!<br/><br/>If you require a one off service or upon request this will cost more and may be charged out at an hourly rate rather than a fixed price per cut.<br/><br/>If you already utilise the services of a lawn care company, consider switching this over to your lawn cutting operator, besides that there could be cost savings the biggest advantage is that the grass cutter will be better able to offer the extract treatment you need and at the right time.<br/><br/>The actual cost for each lawn will be based upon how large the area is. The service provider should undertake a formal quotation to correctly assess your lawn, this could encompass measuring the lawn areas, identifying the grass species, lawn weeds, taking of a soil sample, assessing risks, access method, waste disposal and noting a number of other factors. Once the regularity of service has been established a fixed price per cut based upon the number of visits can then be given. Whilst there will be some regional differences, I would suggest a <b>minimum charge of around £15</b> for regular mowing is not unreasonable for the smallest of lawns.<br/><br/>For the moment forget cost but think about the saving and extra time it will give you, not to mention that beautiful well cared for lawn.<br/>Engaging the right lawn cutting company is more than just looking after your lawn. My client who spent three hours every Saturday gained 90 hours a year – time now spent with his young family on fun trips out which surely must be priceless.. Mrs H will know that we will call her if we have any concerns with her elderly mother and Mr and Mrs K can spend all summer in their villa in Europe knowing that their grounds are maintained in their absence and will be contacted if there are any concerns.<br/><br/>There are many businesses on Landscape Juice that would be more than happy to offer their services to you or alternatively please don’t hesitate to contact me, our teams service most of the South of England and up to the Midlands.<br/><br/>Please check out my profile page for more details at <a href="http://landscapejuice.ning.com/profile/BGSLTD">http://landscapejuice.ning.com/profile/BGSLTD</a></p><p> </p><p>The following blog may also be of interest: <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/a-good-lawn-starts-with-a-good">http://www.landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/a-good-lawn-starts-with-a-good</a></p></div>Landscapers, gardeners and designers in Kenthttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profiles/blogs/landscapers-gardeners-and2007-09-17T06:00:00.000Z2007-09-17T06:00:00.000ZPhil Voicehttps://landscapejuicenetwork.com/profil/philvoice<div><p>Find a landscaper, gardener of garden designer in Kent.</p>
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