Technical
ingredient for a season, then a significant risk of resistance build up would occur”
turf because of the large number of small wax crystals on the leaf. Bayer fungicides are available for
water-repellent turf due to the formulation which reduces surface tension, therefore an even coverage can be achieved which will ensure optimum efficacy against disease. Further to this, it is commonly known that fungi reproduce very frequently and very quickly. “If a turfcare professional was to use just one active ingredient for a season, then a significant risk of resistance build up would occur,” notes Dorin. “To counteract this, we often have two active ingredients with different working mechanisms in one formulation. We also develop spray programmes and advise on which products should be applied at certain times; this all helps to prevent resistance build up.”
A worthwhile investment
Advanced formulation is what really sets the R&D companies apart from those who produce off-patent products but, for that advanced depth of knowledge and research, turfcare professionals have to expect to pay a bit more. This is
sometimes off-putting and adds to the temptation of generics, but Dorin insists that the advanced development of the product will result in a range of added benefits, including greater coverage on the green and added rainfastness. “Products like Chipco® Dedicate®
Green and are rainfast after just one hour,
meaning that, in the largely wet UK climate, the products will adhere to the turf where other generic products may wash away.” He also explains that turfcare
professionals who choose formulated products over generics are also buying into an after service that off-patent companies can’t offer.
Customer service
“We support our products with the very best customer service. Due to the level of research and development that goes into our products, we know everything there is to know about them and, therefore, can offer the best possible technical support.” Dorin notes
As part of their customer support service, the company recently developed a mobile app which helps turfcare
professionals identify a wide range of turf diseases and advises them on the best course of treatment. To overcome the problem, cultural practices are recommended as well as suitable fungicides. Bayer’s Turf & Amenity Product Manager, Claire Matthewman explains that the app is not only an excellent disease tool for product selection, but is also a useful way of identifying key diseases. “A turfcare professional can even take a photograph of a disease and send it to us via the app for identification. A turf expert will be in touch within forty-eight hours to discuss the best course of action,” says Claire. “It’s an example of the advanced level of service on offer, and shows the added value delivered in return for a relatively small difference in cost. Customers consider it to be an added insurance policy. In the unlikely event that anything goes wrong, or if technical assistance is required, the expertise that has gone into developing the products means that we have the knowledge to answer any query and solve almost every problem,” concludes Claire.
“If a turfcare professional was to use just one active
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