Making the very best use of every input on the golf course was the key message at the recent Turf Science Live event held at Wentworth Golf Club. The two-day event, co-presented by Everris, Syngenta and Ransomes Jacobsen, provided golf course managers and greenkeepers with the opportunity to see the latest research and technical innovations in turf technology.

Held on a section of Wentworth’s immaculate Executive 9-hole course, the event attracted in excess of 170 visitors over the two days and consisted of seven stations, all highlighting best practices on the golf course.

Dr David T Jones ‘charming’ earthworms out of the soil with a solution of mustard powder and water

Dr David T Jones, an ecologist at The Natural History Museum and Karl Parry, Course Manager at Denbigh Golf Club, were the educators sponsored by Ransomes Jacobsen. Dr Jones provided a highly visual and entertaining presentation on the negative effects of earthworm casts on fine turf including ‘charming’ earthworms out of soil using a solution of mustard power and water. Karl Parry presented research findings from his project that looked at the affect on ball roll, trueness and smoothness when changing the frequency of cut using Jacobsen’s Eclipse 322 hybrid greens mower.

From Syngenta, Dr Simon Watson highlighted new techniques to counter the increasing risk of damage caused by Fairy Ring and Take-All, along with demonstrating the combined plant health effects of Heritage Maxx and Qualibra. Rod Burke and Dr Ruth Mann of STRI provided visiting greenkeepers with research-backed practical solutions to counter issues of shade on tees and greens, including tailored Primo Maxx programmes to compensate for any lack of light. 

Kenny MacKay answers a question from one of the delegates

The effervescent Henry Bechelet, ably assisted by Mick Fance, gave a presentation on the assistance Everris gave to Kenny McKay in producing consistent and firm greens for this year’s BMW PGA Championship. Henry presented the results of the sampling carried out by the Wentworth greens staff in the run up to the Championship that helped prevent inconsistencies developing while they firmed the greens up for the event. Lewis Blois and Ian Lacy explained the technology behind modern fertiliser coatings and described how they control the nutrient release patterns to optimise turf health and performance. They then demonstrated the importance of calibrating equipment correctly to ensure the products deliver optimum results.

The final station was hosted by Kenny McKay, who provided an intriguing look at the renovation programme of the West course following the BMW event. 

Karl Parry presents his findings on frequency of cut using a Jacobsen Eclipse 322

Commenting at the end of the event, Hanbury Manor Golf Course and Estates Manager, Stan Power said, “Turf Science Live is, for me, one of the most valuable days out. It’s great to hear about the latest ideas and innovations direct from some of the leading experts, and to be able to see them in practice. It also gives the chance to discuss the implications with other greenkeepers and how we might implement the ideas on the course. I would always recommend a visit to anyone who has the chance to attend.”

Gina Putnam, International Marketing Manager at Ransomes Jacobsen, speaking on behalf of all three parties said,

“This is our third Turf Science Live event and, without doubt, the most successful to date. All three businesses presented an interesting mix of research and technical innovation, which was well received by everyone who attended. Also a special mention to the staff at Wentworth, spearheaded by Kenny McKay and supported by the hospitality team, who helped ensure the event passed off with maximum efficiency.”

About Everris Limited
Everris^® is an ICL Specialty Fertilisers Company, part of the ICL group with more than 11,500 people globally. Working in partnership with customers and hand-in-hand with nature, Everris is passionate about optimising plant and turf performance. It takes great pride in the integrity and precision of its world-class product portfolios and strives to remain an open and customer-orientated organisation. With market leading brands Everris is a leading player in the ornamental horticulture, turf and amenity, and specialty agricultural sectors. For more information visit www.everris.co.uk

About Syngenta
Syngenta is one of the world’s leading companies, with more than 27,000 employees in over 90 countries dedicated to our purpose: Bringing plant potential to life. Through world-class science, global reach and commitment to our customers, we help to increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve health and quality of life: www.syngenta.com For turf specific agronomy and product information, please visit www.greencast.co.uk  

About Textron Inc.
Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company that leverages its global network of aircraft, defence, industrial and finance businesses to provide customers with innovative solutions and services. Textron is known around the world for its powerful brands such as Bell Helicopter, Cessna Aircraft Company, Jacobsen, Kautex, Lycoming, E-Z-GO, Greenlee, and Textron Systems. For more information visit: www.textron.com