NewsPlease click the selection panel on the right to lead you to the relevant press release.
New Weather Patterns Bring Opportunities
At the recent Garden Writers press event in London, one subject that received a lot of attention was climate change and the garden care products available which account for it. Climate change is a scientific fact and taking action is becoming imperative. Gardens, gardeners and gardening can play an important role in environmental protection, as seen in recent HTA GIM consumer research.
The lawn, although always under threat from new trends, remains a British favourite. Visitors onto the Johnsons Lawn Seed stand agreed that it remains very easy to be passionate about a lawn. "Not many people realise the value of grass however," explained Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager for Johnsons Lawn Seed. "There are so many benefits of grass that replacing it with artificial products is a nonsensical option especially when we all have a commitment to easing climate change. It stabilises the soil and acts as a buffer against wind, water and erosion."
"60sq metres of lawn will produce enough oxygen for one person every day," continues Harris. "It cleans carbon dioxide, dust and other particles from the air. Lawns trap water thus preventing run off. As the water passes through, it is filtered, returning cleaner water to the ground below. As well as these environmental benefits, it gives enormous pleasure in enhancing the value of our homes as well as providing an acceptable surface for relaxation and recreation."
Recent developments in grass breeding mean that species are better able to cope with unpredictable weather patterns and can be mixed carefully with other species to ensure the best results. Two products that received a lot of interest were newly launched "All Weather Lawn Seed" and "Easy Lawn".
All Weather Lawn Seed heralds a breakthrough in breeding, with turf credentials proven in independent trials. It combines hard fescue, smooth stalked meadow grass and new turf type tall fescue, the latter which has been purpose bred to produce a dense but very attractive fine turf. This mixture is great for those looking for long term drought tolerance, or the ability to cope well in water logged conditions – in other words it does what it says on the box!
Easy Lawn contains microclover mixed with lawn seed. Many years of breeding and selection have resulted in revolutionary microclovers which, when sown in a lawn mixture can produce outstanding results while at the same time demonstrates excellent green credentials! Microclover types have a compact growth and blend well with the sward giving a dense and grassy look. Clover fixes Nitrogen, therefore feeds the grass without the need for added fertiliser. Together with excellent drought tolerance, this mixture offers an environmental alternative with the reduced need for both Nitrogen and water. The healthy and dense growth pattern helps to crowd out weeds and prevent new ones establishing so less herbicides too.
Green issues, whether of climate change, healthier living or environmental considerations, are becoming increasingly relevant. However we need to use these green matters to our advantage. "Adapting to, and mitigating climate change is not just an environmental concern, but one of the greatest economic opportunities and challenges of this century," explains Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager. "However at the same time we need to ensure our own environmental practices are beyond reproach".
For more information about Johnsons Lawn Seed products please call 01386 791113 or email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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Bob Scott joins DLF Trifolium
The appointment of Bob Scott by DLF Trifolium Ltd is great news for Johnsons Sports Seed. With over 30 years experience in the turf business, Bob will be responsible for sales in the South of England. Bob has left a challenging sales and marketing role at British Seed Houses having spent 13 years gathering experience as well as contributing to year on year sales growth. "We are delighted to have such a dynamic professional sales person in the Johnsons Sports Seed team and look forward to reaping the benefits of Bob’s knowledge, experience and contacts," explains Derek Smith, Amenity Sales Manager.
Bob lives with his partner and soul mate Sue in Stroud with their two dogs, Cookie, a Springer Spaniel and Fraser, a black Labrador. They spend half of their lives walking the dogs around the splendid Cotswold's, and on any dog friendly beaches they can find during the winter months.
Bob’s hobbies include motorcycling, speedway, reading, music, natural history, gardening and photography. Last year Bob and Sue went to the British and German speedway Grand Prix, and with any luck hopes to mix business with pleasure and go the Danish SGP at Parken, now that he is working for a Danish company.
He supports his local speedway team, Swindon during the summer providing he is not away on business.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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Grass Breeding & New Facilities Strengthen Seed Business
2008 promises to be an important year for DLF Trifolium with significant expansion and development plans coming to fruition both in terms of production, research and development. As part of the global grass breeding organisation, DLF Trifolium A/S, the UK subsidiary has the opportunity to carry out its own grass trials on home grounds with an experienced team responsible for new opportunities, headed up by Chris Taylor.
Chris has over 30 years of breeding experience with some highly rated amenity varieties included in his portfolio. Now in charge of all trialling activity for the UK's leading grass seed company, he is based at Hailes Farm, Didbrook, near Cheltenham. He has been recently joined by Tony Strickland, who worked for DLF previously.
Breeding grasses for UK conditions is the main objective for Chris with overall responsibility for 5000 plots within 40 acres of land dedicated to amenity varieties. In order to complement this significant appointment for DLF, proposals have been accepted by the planning authorities, to build new trials facilities including offices and machinery storage at Hailes Farm, for the trials and plant breeding department.
This building will, when completed, become the main location for all trials functions in the UK including personnel, equipment, grass trials and additionally, demonstration areas of amenity. The new trial facilities will be completed by summer 2008.
In addition to these changes, there are other significant developments within the UK business. Excavation work started on 18th June 2007 at Thorn Farm, Head Office as the first phase of extending the warehouses by approximately 10,000 square feet.
An important element of the new building has been the installation of "roller racking" which will significantly increase the quantity of finished goods that can be stored. Once the construction has been completed, by February 2008, the packing lines will be re-organised to be accommodated in one area with a direct link to the new warehouse.
These two developments are further significant investments by DLF Trifolium in the business which emphasises its commitment to creating the best, most effective and competitive seed business serving the UK market.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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New Sports Mixtures get a Green Light 2008
An investment in 7 million euros in Research and Development by leading grass seed organisation DLF Trifolium means new material and ideas are guaranteed on a regular basis. One innovation which has already caused a great deal of interest, especially amongst the environmentalists is the development of tiny clovers, known as microclovers. Once seen as a problem in grass swards, whether for professional or recreational use, clover is now being greeted enthusiastically, as seen in MicroClover Sports Mixture from the Pro Range of amenity mixtures.
Many years of breeding and selection have resulted in these revolutionary microclovers which, when sown in a turf mixture can produce outstanding results while at the same time having excellent green credentials! Microclover types have a compact growth and blend well with the sward giving a dense and grassy look. Clover fixes Nitrogen, therefore feeds the grass without the need for added fertiliser. Companion grasses are selected for their slow re-growth, dark colour and disease resistance. Together with excellent drought tolerance, this mixture offers an environmental alternative with the reduced need for both Nitrogen and water. The healthy and dense growth pattern helps to crowd out weeds and prevent new ones establishing so less herbicides too. All this is great news in terms of cost reduction and sustainability.
Also available for 2008 is the new mixture suitable for all seasons and all weather conditions.
All Weather Sports Mixture from the Pro Range heralds a breakthrough in breeding, with turf credentials proven in independent trials. It combines ryegrass, smooth stalked meadow grass and new turf type tall fescue which has been purpose bred for the amenity market to produce a dense but very fine turf which benefits from a strong root system binding the root zone. Recovery rates are high too. This mixture is great for those looking for long term drought tolerance, or the ability to cope well under stress conditions including water logged conditions as well as very good appearance. In fact you could call this an organic astro turf. All Weather has been launched in the Johnsons Lawn Seed range to the consumer market and has had a tremendous reception since arrival in-store this spring.
Green issues, whether of climate change, healthier living or environmental considerations, are becoming increasingly relevant. However we need to use these green matters to our advantage. "Adapting to, and mitigating climate change is not just an environmental concern, but one of the greatest economic opportunities of this century," explains Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager.
Click here for further information on MicroClover Sport
MicroClover Sport
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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The only dedicated Sports Turf Seed Range available
Johnsons Sports Seed, the only range of sports seed dedicated to turf has made significant improvements for 2008. New cultivars included are Villa and Legendary Velvet Bent, which set new standards in shoot density and are perfect for sustainably managed golf greens. Independence Creeping Bent is rated No 1 with a dense, compact growth and excellent wear tolerance.
The increasing importance of using turf type Perennial Ryegrass has been reflected with a new table in the BSPB Turfgrass Seed Booklet which means greenkeepers and groundsmen can incorporate advance cultivars of Perennial Ryegrass into their mixtures. The new ‘Close Main Ryegrass Trial for Greens’, cut to 4mm, features cultivars Sauvignon and Jessica as No 1 and 2 respectively.
Taking advantage of these outstanding results, Johnsons Sports Seed has included both these cultivars in its range for 2008. Taskmaster and Ryemaster include Sauvignon and Jessica. Ryemaster combines the two high flyers with Evita Perennial Ryegrass, which has been tried and tested at many top UK county cricket venues including The Oval.
Other new formulations include Greenmaster, now with 80% Manor Browntop Bent, the No 1 rated cultivar for green’s use.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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Gardening is Fun!
Gardens may be getting smaller, but there are more gardens than ever in the UK. 17.5 million households have a garden and with new homes being built every minute, this figure looks like steadily increasing – great news for the garden retailer.
Garden centres have maintained the largest share of the £3.8bn garden care market with an increase of 5% over the last four years.
As for garden owners, they seem to have a lot in common! A key driver appears to be a garden they are proud of that is clean and tidy, where they can relax and entertain and they are prepared to put in a varying amount of effort to achieve this goal.
However, as seen in recent HTA reports* there are different types of gardener which offers some excellent opportunities for the garden care industry. "Keen" gardeners, often over 55 with a bias towards women as the main gardening consumer, are the core shoppers of our industry. They are just as keen on the process as the end result and are passionate about their gardens therefore prepared to spend generously.
"Quite keen" gardeners are more functional, spending as much time as they have to. They take pride in their garden and enjoy the final product as much as the journey, recognising their garden is very much an asset.
The "marginal" gardener is more aspirational, viewing the garden as an extra room which is both functional and provides an opportunity to demonstrate style and creative flair. However a lack of time, knowledge and success will dampen their enthusiasm to spend more time in the garden and therefore in order to nurture this group of potentially "keen" gardeners, solutions need to be offered.
"We need to target this prime group of around 30% of gardening customers," explains Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager for Johnson’s Lawn Seed. This evidence indicates there are more and more people enjoying the end result and not so much the process, therefore it is critical that we bring back the fun into gardening. "We have produced a DVD which purposefully makes the whole process of lawn care much more enjoyable as well as guarantees worthwhile results," concludes Harris.
Another opportunity we need to be aware of is the growing number of people moving house every year. 11% of households are on the move, and as stated by Norwich Union 2006, an attractive, well kept garden will enhance the property significantly.
Finally, it is critical that we realise not all customers are the same and need different products and services, therefore it is imperative that our strategy going forward meets these different needs.
The DVD is available to stockists as an in-store demonstrator with a DVD player provided free of charge to retailers taking a specific Johnson’s Lawn Seed promotion. The DVD is also available to consumers as a download from the Johnson’s website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
*Source: HTA Retail Market Analysis Report 2006/Norwich Union
For more information about Johnsons Lawn Seed products please call 01386 791113 or email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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Demonstrating Environmental Integrity
Green issues, whether of climate change, healthier living or environmental considerations, are becoming increasingly relevant to consumers. However we need to use these green matters to our advantage. "Adapting to, and mitigating climate change is not just an environmental concern, but one of the greatest economic opportunities of this century," explains Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager for Johnson's Lawn Seed.
Lawns, in particular, offer good news for the environment. "A natural green carpet made from the finest, healthy grass can aid in the reduction of carbon dioxide missions and thus contribute to efforts minimising global warming trends," explains Harris.
60sq metres of lawn will produce enough oxygen for one person every day. It cleans carbon dioxide, dust and other particulates from the air. Lawns trap water thus preventing run off. As the water passes through, it is filtered, returning cleaner water to the ground below.
In summer, lawns have a significant cooling effect because of the water vapour they respire during the day. This means that a lawn area can be considerably cooler than patios, drives and pavements. Lawns also reduce ambient noise levels by absorbing the sound rather than reflecting it back into the surrounding area. This is particularly relevant for the urban land owner.
"We have a duty to educate consumers and help change behaviour. Fortunately with the huge investment we are making in Research and Development within our global organisation, we will have the necessary products available in our garden care range to demonstrate our environmental integrity and offer consumers a healthy alternative," says Harris. 
New All Weather Lawn mixture takes advantage of the developments in grass breeding designed specifically to deal with the unpredictable nature of the weather. The exclusive mixture of cultivars combines fescues and smooth stalked meadow grass. Tall fescue has deep roots and will produce an attractive lawn which is hardwearing as well as all weather-wearing. Sheep's fescue improves fineness and visual merit holding its colour well and smooth stalked meadow grass maintains good appearance whatever the weather - drought or heavy deluges of rain.
Other products like Bio-Active Lawn Feed have already proved to be very popular in the lawn care market and are particularly suitable for those looking to achieve a green and healthy lawn with more efficient nutrient usage and many other environmental benefits.
For more information about Johnsons Lawn Seed products please call 01386 791113 or email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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Lilleshall National Sports Centre
Lilleshall National Sports Centre certainly provides a wide range of grounds maintenance challenges for estate manager Keith Fox and his team from ISS Waterers Landscape. ISS Waterers provide grounds maintenance services at the site through Leisure Connection plc to the principle client Sport England.
Lilleshall was originally built in 1831 as a hunting lodge and retreat for the Duke of Sutherland and his family. The site is now a National Centre of Sporting Excellence with residential and visiting users including the Football Association, British Gymnastics, The Grand National Archery Society and many other visiting sports teams.
The formal landscaped gardens are varied and quite beautiful. They include large grassed areas, an arboretum and an Italian garden. These are set in a secluded and spectacular setting. The site also boasts four purpose built football pitches with a further five natural pitches. There are also further grass training areas, a pitch and putt course, a bowling green and an artificial pitch all set within 370 acres of grounds.
The challenges faced by Keith are therefore extremely varied, therefore expertise and flexible working patterns in many areas is a key requirement. Balancing the requirements of formal areas and fine turf with the demands of winter sports and archery is no mean feat. Keith and his team have achieved exceptional results at the site. These high standards were rewarded with a British Association of Landscape Industries principle award for Multipurpose Site 2007.
Keith’s commitment to quality of work and presentation at Lilleshall show an understanding of both landscape and sports turf maintenance in a unique setting. He is also full of praise for his team of four who share his enthusiasm and work ethic.
With all this responsibility and pressure for excellent results, Keith required grass seed mixtures that would provide high quality playing surfaces in the shortest possible time. "I always choose highly rated varieties," states Keith. "I realised that the Johnsons Sports Seed mixtures had an excellent combination of top rated varieties and the added benefit of being Turf Guard treated. The establishment of the grasses was quick, uniform and provided resilient wear tolerant, attractive swards. In particular Pitchmaster mixture has provided excellent results. I have been very pleased with Johnsons Sports Seeds and appreciate the interest and technical input on site from the company."
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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The Climate's Right for Johnson's Lawn Seed
GLEE 2007 has been another huge success for Johnson's Lawn Seed. New product "All Weather Lawn" caught the eye of both customers and press as the perfect mixture for our ever changing weather patterns. With the ideal combination of tall fescue and sheeps fescue, the mixture is suitable for both extended periods of drought and heavy deluges of rain. The addition of smooth stalked meadow grass helps maintain appearance and colour whatever the weather.
At a seminar on climate change running during the show, Johnson's Lawn Seed was mentioned over and over again for its appropriate range of lawn care products. "We have a reputation for leading the way on developing products which demonstrate environmental integrity," explains Marketing Manager, Miranda Harris. "We have a duty to educate customers and help change behaviour, as well as come up with solutions for them. Fortunately with the huge investment we make in research and development within our global organisation, we have been able to come up with sustainable products for the lawn care market."
Another product which is proving to be very popular is Easy Lawn, a mixture of tiny clover and grass seed. Bred specifically for a discerning market, the clover is micro and mixes well giving a lovely appearance as well as deep green colour. In recent independent trials, Easy Lawn came up top over 19 other seed mixtures.
Many visitors were impressed with the joint promotion on offer for garden centres. Each centre was allowed to choose a local school and donate half a dozen rugby balls branded with the JLS logo. "We are keen to promote sport and fitness in as many schools as possible," explained Miranda. "The Garden Centre should get some PR out of the initiative and the schools will get a few free balls. After all rugby is very topical at the moment."
For more information about Johnsons Lawn Seed products please call 01386 791113 or email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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Tony Strickland Returns to DLF – again!
DLF Trifolium UK is pleased to welcome back Tony Strickland, Assistant Trials Manager, who will be based at Didbrook alongside Grass Breeder, Chris Taylor. He will be responsible for DLF demonstration plots, the oilseed rape and arable crop trials, and will assist Chris Taylor with the grass trials. He strengthens an already impressive set-up at DLF Trifolium for Breeding and Product Development.
Tony is extremely well qualified for the position, having a degree in Agricultural Science (Crop Science) from Leeds University and considerable experience working in agricultural and amenity trials.
He was Trials Manager for Perryfields Holdings (now DLF Trifolium) at Inkberrow from 1993 to 2000 and prior to that he spent 8 years as Trials Officer for Danish Plant Breeding (now DLF Trifolium) at Didbrook!
Since leaving, Tony has been growing forage grass trials, producing early generation seed multiplications and running a nursery selling native wild flower seed and plug plants.
Welcome back to Tony.
For more information on the agriculture range please call 01386 791101 or email forage@dlf.co.uk
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UK Grass Seed Prices set to rise
A combination of factors will inevitably force the price of grass seed to rise says leading grass seed Supplier DLF Trifolium Ltd. “In recent years we are seeing fewer grass seed crops grown, says Derek Smith, Amenity Sales Manager for DLF. “No longer is there any subsidy on grass seed production so growers are looking at the most profitable crops to grow i.e. wheat. In addition to this factor is a higher demand for bio-ethanol crops such as oil seed rape and wheat in Europe.”
“Already we are experiencing difficulty in contracting for 2008 grass seed production due to these competitive crops,” concludes Smith.
The recent wet harvest in the main production areas of Western Europe has reduced seed yield by 20% for 2007 harvest thus compounding the problem further.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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DLF Trifolium Triathlete Competes in Hamburg World Age Group Championships
Inspired by watching the Elite Women race the day before, Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager for DLF Trifolium slipped into the cold brown waters of the Alster lake in Hamburg at 8.40 on September 2nd to begin the Olympic Distance World Championships. Racing against 75 women from all over the world in her age group was far more daunting than anything Harris had ever attempted in the UK and once the hooter had signalled the start of the race, she realised she was competing against some ferocious athletes.
The mile long swim seemed further than usual, probably made tougher by an unsympathetic north wind ruffling the waters of the lake, however Harris exited the swim and began the long run through transition to her bike. With over 2,400 bikes racked along the Ballindamn high street, it took some time before Harris could shed her wetsuit and begin the next 40km stage on her bike. A keen cyclist, Harris always enjoys this part of the event and the fast, technical course suited her well. Apart from one amusing incident with a camera man trying to capture her on TV, which she mistakenly took for a race marshal, the bike leg was uneventful and passed quickly.
Back on her feet again after another lengthy transition, (adding another 1.5km to the 10km run), Harris soon realised all was not well for the last leg. The 10km run seemed to go on forever and a Paula Radcliffe “pit stop” became necessary. This meant losing a couple of minutes and just missing her target of under 3 hours.
The cheering crowds on the last kilometre were awesome and the tremendous support for Great Britain helped to ease the pain on crossing the line.
Despite coming home with a total of 40 medals for the team, Harris’s age group top position was 4th, just proving how tough the competition was. “I found it a really tough race and the build up really unnerved me,” says Harris. “Although I didn’t quite make my target of 3 hours, I’m proud to have been part of the Great Britain team and its now back to the drawing board to see where I can improve for 2008.” Harris has already qualified for Vancouver World Age Group Championships.
For more information please contact Miranda Harris
Tel: 01386 791120 Mobile: 0788 7897673
Email: mharris@dlf.co.uk
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TGA 2007 SHOW
 Recent visitors to the TGA Show, held at County Turf on 27th June, had the opportunity of winning £500 worth of seed on the DLF Trifolium stand. A total of 12 managed to get “water droplets” through the smallest hole in the game board and were entered into the prize draw. Other prizes of DLF caps and pens were won for those who were less accurate!
Drought Master Pro 29, was presented to the trade, a mixture containing highly STRI rated tall fescue varieties Masterpiece and Debussy. This landscape mixture has been formulated to take advantage of the exceptional colour, leaf and shoot density, wear tolerance and disease resistance of exclusive new turf type tall fescue cultivars. These cultivars have roots which will penetrate the root zone to depths of over 1m and when combined with Quatro sheep’s fescue and Limousine smooth stalked meadow grass, will produce a fine turf where water supply is restricted. Sheep’s fescue improves fineness and visual merit but needs little Nitrogen input and will hold its colour well. By including smooth stalked meadow grass, the mixture is well aimed at customers interested in long term drought tolerance as well as very good appearance under stress conditions. It is also a choice mixture for areas of grass which have become waterlogged, a problem we have seen recently.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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Grass Breeding & New Facilities For UK Grass Seed Business
As part of the global grass breeding organisation, DLF Trifolium A/S, the UK subsidiary is delighted to have the opportunity to carry out its own grass trials on home grounds.
 Chris Taylor transferred to DLF Trifolium Ltd together with the CPB grass breeding programme, which was finalised in November 2006. With 30 years of breeding experience behind him, he has been very successful in breeding agriculture ryegrass varieties for the UK Recommended List including Twymax, Twytop and some highly rated amenity varieties, Twysport red fescue and Twyplay perennial ryegrass. Now in charge of all trialling activity for the UK’s leading grass seed company, he is based at Hailes Farm, Didbrook, near Cheltenham.
Breeding grasses for UK conditions is the main objective for Chris with overall responsibility for 5000 plots within 40 acres of land dedicated to amenity and agriculture varieties. In order to complement this significant appointment for DLF, proposals have been submitted to the planning authorities to build new trials facilities to include offices and machinery storage at Hailes Farm, for the trials and plant breeding department.
This building will, when completed, become the main location for all trials functions in the UK including personnel, equipment, grass trials and additionally demonstration areas of amenity and game cover crops subject to planning permission! The new trial facilities will be completed by spring 2008.
In addition to these changes, there are significant developments within the UK business. Excavation work started on 18th June at Thorn Farm, Head Office as the first phase of extending the warehouses by approximately 10,000 square feet.
An important element of the new building will be the installation of “roller racking” which will significantly increase the quantity of finished goods that can be stored. Once the construction has been completed, hopefully by early October this year, the packing lines will be re-organised to be accommodated in one area with a direct link to the new warehouse.
These two developments are further significant investments by DLF Trifolium in the business which emphasises its commitment to creating the best seed business serving the UK market.
For more information on the amenity range please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
For more information on the agriculture range please call 01386 791101 or email forage@dlf.co.uk
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DLF Trifolium Triathlete Qualifies for GB Team
 Miranda Harris, DLF Trifolium's Marketing Manager has recently qualified for the Olympic Distance World Championships which will take place in Hamburg later this year.
Miranda had 4 chances to qualify this summer with races at Ellesmere, Rutland Water, Fishguard and Wakefield. The first two races went well, especially Ellesmere which was her first Olympic distance triathlon ever consisting of a 1500 metre swim, a 25 mile bike finishing with a 10km run. The bike course suited Miranda well and her times were competitive but overall she was not quick enough to give her one of the top 4 places necessary for qualification.
Due to compete at Wakefield, two weeks following Dambuster, Miranda made a last minute decision to race at Pembroke instead due to a smaller field and more chance of qualification. Of the four qualifying races, Pembroke Triathlon is probably viewed as the toughest. The race opened in the sea with a two lap swim including a 200 metre run in between. Then on to a testing bike course which left Fishguard and followed the coastal road to St. David’s with a four mile climb to warm up. The two lap course was just under 30 miles, nearly five miles longer than a standard Olympic course. The run, also a two lap course, included a challenging jaunt along the inner breakwater followed by a kilometre climb on to the coastal path, for a further kilometre before retracing the route back to the harbour.
Despite promises of fine weather and a calm swim, Miranda was somewhat disconcerted with the inclement conditions on arrival at Fishguard. Gale force winds and torrential rain made the usually pretty harbour of Goodick, Fishguard look very uninviting. However there was no time to reconsider. A mass start at 8.00 a.m. with nearly 200 competitors and the race was underway.
The first lap went well and Miranda managed to stay with a group of swimmers who offered some shelter in the increasingly rough sea. However on the second lap, conditions worsened and the swimmers spread out. Many of the competitors were forced to slow down in order to negotiate the choppy sea. Out on the bike, and again a reasonably quick first lap but torrential rain and heavy gusts of wind made it impossible to take advantage of any steep descents. Road safety was the main priority to avoid any chance of aquaplaning and Miranda was relieved to finish the bike unscathed. The run was in true character, extremely wet under foot following all the heavy rainfall and hilly but elation soon took over as the realisation of finishing the race became a reality. An email later that day confirmed her place in the Olympic distance team as well. Needless to say she has opted to race the longer distance!
For more information please contact Miranda Harris
Tel: 01386 791120 Mobile: 0788 7897673
Email: mharris@dlf.co.uk
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Whatever The Weather Johnson's Has It Covered
 You can rely on Johnson's Lawn Seed to have the best range available, but you can't rely on the weather. In fact our weather is becoming more unpredictable every day. Winters are becoming warmer and wetter, with fewer frosts. We had a scorching spring with a long period of drought, followed by deluges of rainfall. Whatever the weather however, Johnson's has a mixture suitable, and this year is no exception with the new mix launched at GLEE 2007.
Not only is the weather a popular topic of conversation. Green issues, whether of climate change, carbon emissions, healthier living or environmental considerations, are becoming increasingly relevant to consumers. However we need to use these green issues to our advantage. "Adapting to, and mitigating climate change is not just an environmental concern, but one of the greatest economic opportunities of this century," explains Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager for Johnson's Lawn Seed.
Lawns, in particular, offer good news for the environment. "A natural green carpet made from the finest, healthy grass can aid in the reduction of carbon dioxide missions, reduce energy consumption and thus contribute to efforts minimising global warming trends," concludes Harris. "We have a duty to educate consumers and help change behaviour. Fortunately with the huge investment we are making in Research and Development within our global organisation, we will have the necessary products available in our garden care range to demonstrate our environmental integrity and offer consumers a healthy alternative."
For more information about Johnsons Lawn Seed products please call 01386 791113 or email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the NEW website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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Athletic Turf Article
Read an article from Athletic Turf on the perception of players from the NFL in the USA regarding artificial turf. |
'NFL players weigh in on grass/synthetic....'
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To read further please click here: Athletic Turf Article
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DLF Trifolium take the Show on the Road
DLF Trifolium, has organised a series of seminars titled “Practical Sustainability” to help turf managers achieve a quality, sustainable turf surface. The seminars, demonstrate the benefits and use of more frequent overseeding within any prudent turf management programme.
“The R&A definition of sustainability in relation to golf course development and management,” explains Derek Smith, Amenity Manager for DLF Trifolium, “is optimising the playing quality of the golf course in harmony with the conservation of its natural environment under economically sound and socially responsible management.”
The events will cover all aspects including:
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Why oversow and which grass ? - Derek Smith, DLF Trifolium
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Creating a receptive rootzone - Martin Ward, Symbio
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Effective overseeding (practical) - Keith Kensett, R & K Kensett
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Primo Maxx – Simon Barnaby, Syngenta
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Managing for a quality sward - Andy Cole, PSD agronomy/ Henry Bechelet, S.T.R.I
This will be an exciting and interesting opportunity for all turf professionals i.e. greenkeepers and groundsmen interested in improving the quality of their course. The events will be free of charge but numbers will be limited, therefore tickets will be on a first come, first served basis. The course is recognised by BIGGA and greenkeepers will qualify for points towards Master Greenkeeper/3 CPD professional credits.
The venues include:
| Belton Woods Golf Club, Grantham, Lincolnshire |
28th March |
| Pedham Place Golf Club, Swanley, Kent |
17th April |
| STRI, Bingley, West Yorkshire |
19th April |
The first event will on March 28th. Please contact Bev Underwood on the details below if you are interested in attending.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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Exciting opportunity for Greenkeepers and Groundsmen to visit DLF Trifolium Breeding Station in Denmark
Greenkeepers and Groundsmen visiting BTME 2007 will have an exclusive opportunity to win a trip to Denmark in 2007. The competition, run in conjunction with Pitchcare, will be open to all visitors coming on to the DLF Trifolium/Johnsons Sport & Amenity stand - A16. Two successful entrants will win the opportunity of an ‘all costs paid for’ trip to the largest breeding facilities in the world at DLF Trifolium A/S, Head Office and breeding station.
This is where new varieties are being developed for changes in climatic conditions, future restrictions on inputs and demanding playing circumstances. Other places of interest included on the trip will be a premier football stadium and a leading golf club. There will some excellent runners up prizes as well as an opportunity to preview the new Johnson’s Sport & Amenity and Pro Range mixtures for 2007.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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BTME 2007
A revolution for Turf Mixtures from Johnsons
We have had a real mixture revolution in the Johnson’s range for 2007. Using a combination of experience and technical trials from DLF Trifolium Ltd, we have radically re-formulated several of the blends. Most people design mixtures with a general application in mind, where they are not sure of the soil types, use and management a mixture will receive. The blends therefore have to be a compromise and able to adapt to the many variables. Not so for Johnson’s.
The majority of the seed we sell in the Johnson's range is for the renovation of quality sports turf, so the key motivators when re-designing the blends are speed of establishment, performance and visual quality. The new mixtures make the most of the significant improvements made in turf grass breeding over the last 5 years. In addition the exceptional Turfguard seed coating is applied to all Johnson's mixtures.
NEW J2
Now a 60% (95% by seed No’s) bent overseeding mixture. The fescue acts as a nurse crop, being able to germinate at a deeper sowing height, allowing the majority of bent to establish rapidly at the surface, providing proven close mown results.
NEW J4
Following the success of J Fescue introduced in 2006, we have now updated J4 to an all fescue mixture specifically designed for golf course fairways. We have taken advantage of the faster establishment of the new strong creeping red fescue Almerita and the unique sheep’s fescue Quatro. The new mixture has improved colour and reduced requirements for fertiliser and water and will be very effective for links courses or clubs looking to follow a more sustainable management programme.
NEW TEEMASTER
Teemaster is now the perfect Tee renovation blend. The high quality turf type ryegrasses have been increased to 70% of the mixture and they are combined with the new rapid establishing red fescue Almerita. The new mix guarantees even faster ground cover and a fine, dense and attractive appearance.
NEW PITCHMASTER (formerly Wembley way)
Following its introduction onto the market 2 years ago, the No 1 ranked sports turf perennial ryegrass Bizet has taken Johnson's premier winte sports renovation mixture, Pitchmaster, to new levels of performance. The mixture of choice for many of the UK's leading clubs has been further improved with the increase of Bizet to 50% of the mixture. No other mixture offers the unique combination of outright wear tolerance with the colour and visual merit that Pitchmaster delivers.
Please visit us on stand A16 where you can view the new range of mixtures and find out about our competition to win a trip to Denmark – the two winners will visit our breeding station and see some of the courses and stadia where these revolutionary mixtures have been sown.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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British Grassland Competition November 2006
At the recent Gloucestershire British Grassland Society (BGS) meeting the winner of the BGS National Grassland Management Competition was announced. All three finalists came from dairy farms but with different systems as quoted by Dr. Dave Roberts SAC, Head Judge of the competition. All objectives were clear and forages were selected to conditions and layout of their farms and systems.
Competition Winner: Thomas Craig
Before announcing the winners of the competition, which is sponsored jointly by DLF Trifolium Ltd and Kemira Grow How, Dave talked about important aspects of dairy farming. “Identifying your type of farm is important, as is the recognition of strengths and weaknesses of the farm itself but also of your staff. Knowing your costs and what you can do to optimize those costs is essential. Be accurate but don’t worry too much about precision,” explained Dave. “When considering the importance of good forage, look at high intake characteristics, but also consider alternative forages such as protein crops, maize and the inclusion of white clover”.
Other factors to consider as well as the efficient use of inputs, included biodiversity management, recycling waste and finally remembering the general public, whether this means informing them of footpaths on your farm or considering the interest of the public in the attributes of your products.
The Competition sets out to find the farmer who best demonstrates excellence in the management of grass and forage, leading to profitable livestock production and care of the land. Ballykelly farmer, Thomas Craig was confirmed winner of the fiercely contested competition. “Thomas’ enthusiastic and innovative approach to grassland and forage management, and his attention to detail to all aspects of this commercial yet sustainable dairy unit, can only be admired,” said Dr Dave Roberts.
Thomas farms with his father Jim and brother Robert on 180ha of reclaimed land on the edge of Lough Foyle. The land lies between 0.5m above and below sea level.
For more information please call 01386 791101 or email forage@dlf.co.uk
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Garden Writers Guild Awards Lunch
November 30th 2006
Tightly packed amongst 450 journalists, garden writers and members of the gardening trade, we enjoyed a splendid Awards Lunch at the Savoy. Accompanied by key customers from Wyevale, Solus and Blue Diamond as well as members of the press from Horticulture Week, Amateur Gardening and BBC Gardeners World we listened as 17 awards were presented.
Miranda Harris presenting the award to Claire Austin
The award sponsored on behalf of Johnsons Lawn Seed, The Reference Book of the Year was won by Claire Austin with ‘Irises – Gardener’s Encyclopaedia’.
We were joined by Val Bourne, author of The Natural Gardener and The Winter Garden. Val writes for various key publications including The Daily Telegraph, The Garden and The English Garden. She was very interested in our microclover product.
Pippa Quelch, producer of Radio Devon Gardening Programme, was the last member of our party who was delighted to win the Radio Broadcast of the Year award with her programme ‘It’s all gone pear shaped’. She was keen to find out more about our JLS range and the new Bio-Active product which she will feature on one of her gardening programmes next year.
For more information about Johnsons Lawn Seed products please call 01386 791113 or email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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BIO-ACTIVE Lawn Feed is no “Quick Fix” Product
Award winning Bio-Active Lawn Feed, recently launched at Glee 2006, has won a Gold Award for its “green appeal”. The winning product is part of the new range of Lawn Care Products from Johnson’s.
Michael Burks from Castle Gardens who judged the Garden Care Category, explains why he chose Bio-Active. “I came with an open mind about this category, but felt that after a year of incredible droughts, what should be top of our minds is our responsibility to live a sustainable existence. Some products were a ‘quick fix’, but ignored the real needs. However, little things can make a big difference, so I decided on Bio-Active Lawn Feed.”
“It uses two distinct methods to improve lawn quality: a slow-release fertiliser and bacterial fungi. The improvements that will be achieved using these techniques are long-term and there is even an autumn and a spring treatment. I see huge commercial opportunities for this within the industry,” concluded Michael.
Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager for Johnson’s Lawn Seed was pleased with the feedback at Glee. “Also well received by the customers visiting the show was the new Lawn Care DVD which offers a step by step guide on how to achieve a lovely lawn. The DVD is available to consumers free of charge or as a download from the Johnson’s website www.johnsonslawnseed.com.”
DVD plus player is available as part of an in-store promotion for outlets looking to increase sales with lawn seed and lawn care related products.
For further information on the market leading brand of lawn seed please call 01386 791113, email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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Exciting new range of drought tolerant mixtures go into trial
Significant improvements in tall fescue cultivars together with the interest in more drought tolerant species, has resulted in DLF Trifolium putting a range of new formulations into trial. The new mixtures, to be sown this autumn, will assess the best formulations for the future and will be available for all customers and interested parties to visit, alongside other landscape, wildflower and sports turf demonstration trials.
In addition, DLF will sow mixtures under different nutrient programmes to assess requirements in line with customers looking to adopt more sustainable maintenance programmes.
Pro26 Ecosward, a mixture with tiny clovers known as microclovers bred by DLF Trifolium, is looking particularly green at the moment, under the drought conditions. These tiny clovers are able to tolerate drought exceptionally well. They produce a natural source of fertiliser for the grass, so are very suitable for low maintenance situations.
A new mixture, Pro29 Drought Master has been formulated to take advantage of the exceptional colour, density, wear tolerance and disease resistance of new tall fescue cultivars Masterpiece and Debussy. By including Limousine, the UK’s leading smooth stalked meadow grass, and a dark leaved perennial rye grass, the mixture is aimed at customers interested in long term drought tolerance who require a mixture with very good visual merit as well.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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Drought concerns dampened by DLF – J3/J4
New mixtures from Johnsons Sport and Amenity at DLF Trifolium have been designed with the current drought issue and subsequent threat of extensive hose pipe bans in mind.
J3 and J4 include top rated cultivars such as the unique Sheeps Fescue, Quatro which is very drought tolerant. Other species which offer a similar advantage are Tall Fescue and Red Fescue, which offers the additional benefit of being visually attractive.
One of the most successful ways of coping with dry summers, while maintaining a high quality sward is regular overseeding with Fescue based mixtures. This will reduce and control high levels of Poa Annua.
For further information on the management of golf courses where sustainability is a key issue please visit our article: Variety is the spice of life.
J3 and J4 are available from Johnsons Sport and Amenity and include top Chewings Fescue such as Carioke, Musica and Darwin, as well as Leonora and Cezanne Creeping Red Fescue.
For more information please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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The Grass is Always Green with Johnsons Lawn Seed
Responding to extensive market research in the gardening sector and planning a big shake up in the market, Johnsons Lawn Seed have introduced two new products for 2006 to expand their successful range of lawn care products.
“We are targeting the busy professional who is keen to impress but may be hampered by a lack of time”, explains Miranda Harris, Marketing Manager for Johnsons Lawn Seed. “Currently a staggering £392 million is spent on lawn maintenance and it seems the lawn is back in fashion with a rise last year of 5.5% on products to assist in achieving a lawn that will make your neighbours green with envy.”
One Step
The first product, “One Step, is all it takes to achieve striking results with a simple ‘two in one’ product which involves mixing fine ryegrass with a specially formulated ingredient,” states Spencer Goodall, Sales Manager for Johnsons Garden Care. “This results in a dramatic improvement in lawn appearance and, in sales terms, an opportunity for 20% extra sales.” The pack itself, specially devised for the 2-products-in-1 process, is designed as a handy ready-to-use shaker bag so no spreader is required. The contents are easily applied through special perforations in the bottom of the pack.
Easy Lawn
Easy Lawn, is suitable for the busy gardener looking for a lawn which remains green for longer and requires minimum maintenance. Tiny leaved clovers are combined with quality lawn seed varieties in a mixture endorsed by the STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute). These microclovers produce their own source of natural fertiliser which feeds the grass, keeping it healthy and green while deep roots reduce the need for watering, a factor which will become increasingly important with changes in the climate and reduced rainfall. The resulting dense growth inhibits weed establishment while providing an attractive lawn.
Easy Lawn with microclovers on the left is much greener in trials compared to grass-only seed mixtures
“Extensive in-house breeding investment demonstrates the importance we place on product innovation,” concludes Miranda Harris. “Not only are we continually looking for “easy” solutions for the growing number of enthusiastic gardeners, but identifying sales opportunities for our customers.”
For further information on the market leading brand of lawn seed please call 01386 791113, email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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New Name for Johnsons Lawn Seed and
Three New Products
Johnsons Lawn Seed have extended their range with new products and relaunched their name to Johnsons Garden Care, to include a greater range.
Responding to increasing interest in wild life, the new products Wild Bird and Butterfly and Insect Attraction mixtures are creating a lot of demand already. These mixtures are available in 250g pouches with supporting point of sale material. Wild Bird Attraction mixture contains annual seed bearing species, wild birds will find very palatable and nutritious. This mixture has been carefully designed to provide a varied source of food for seed eating birds over a prolonged period in Autumn and early Winter. It is suitable for a wide range of soil types all over the country; the species used will provide a broad range of food for seed eating birds. SRP £6.99
Butterflies and Insect Attraction mixtures contain naturally occurring grasses and flower species designed to attract butterflies and insects. This mixture will provide a wide range of habitats for both flying and ground dwelling insects, and in turn will attract insect feeding birds and wildlife. It provides a wide variety of attractive colour and a rich source of pollen and nectar. It is suitable for a wide range of soil types; the species used are very stress tolerant and do not need intensive management. SRP £7.99
The third product to be launched is Equine Paddock mix which provides good quality, palatable grazing ideal for horses and ponies. A dense, hardwearing sward is produced and therefore helps to prevent hoof damage. It is suitable for exercise grounds as well as providing feed. A good crop of hay is produced if the paddock is closed for a short time before cutting. The careful selection of species will ensure that the sward is able to withstand the demands placed on it year after year. SRP £17.99
All products were launched at the Garden Press Day Event on February 3rd and are supported with a full package of point of sale, display bins and technical literature.
For further information on the market leading brand of lawn seed please call 01386 791113, email info@johnsonslawnseed.com or visit the website www.johnsonslawnseed.com
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Dramatic results from research at STRI - commissioned by DLF Trifolium Ltd
The final report of trials carried out at The Sports Turf Research Institute, Bingley shows that increasing overseeding rates has a dramatic effect on the speed of establishment and quality of the new sward. The research funded by DLF Trifolium Ltd, examined the effects of different overseeding rates on the speed of recovery of a heavily worn perennial ryegrass sward, (simulating an end of season winter sports pitch). Overseeding is an important part of the renovation programme for intensively used winter games pitches.
Following establishment in May 2004, the initial effects of overseeding at five different rates on live ground cover and turf quality, were assessed weekly for the first nine weeks of the trial. The longer term effects of the different overseeding rates, under simulated football wear conditions, were then assessed for a further nine months until the end of the trial in May 2005.
During the renovation of worn perennial ryegrass turf increasing seed rates to between 50 and 75 grams/square metre dramatically increased the speed of establishment and turf quality of the sward. There was a direct relationship between seed rate and turf quality during the establishment phase. The higher seed rates markedly reduced the time required to achieve a surface that would be deemed fit for use. The density and uniformity of sward produced at the end of the establishment phase was also improved by increasing the normal seed rates.
For a copy of the full report or a powerpoint presentation, please call 01386 791102 or email amenity@dlf.co.uk
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