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necessary re-laying of the pitch was able to be done within the available window. These works include:
• Koro the pitch to a depth of 25/30mm
• Shockwave to alleviate compaction and aid in aeration
• Sand master on a slight 20 degree diagonal to intersect with existing gravel bands
• Supply and spread 120 tonnes of 45 grade winter sports pitch dressing sand and ameliorate using Aeravator, and hollow core
• Re seed pitch using BGS A20 Rye sport blend using a vredo disc seeder and Blec Turf maker seed drill
• Spread a pre-seed fertiliser to aid in quick germination and establishment
• A new 100mm carrier drainage pipe was installed on the east side of the pitch
What’s in store for the coming season? Head Groundsman, Paul Sykes, explains:
After an extensive summer renovation, it is vital we do not sit back, but continue to develop the pitch. I was once advised to change my outlook of a renovation window. “A renovation implies repairing damage done in the previous season. It’s best to look at it as preparation for the coming season and beyond.” This helps us to be forward looking and making sure we are continually striving to improve the pitch. This season our major focus is in root development. The summer renovation works have made a real impact in opening up the soil structure and the Koro has helped to remove nearly all of the poa annua. We now want to ensure our new perennial ryegrass mixture develops a strong rooting system. This will be achieved by continuing our aeration programme and using water sparingly, and then drenching to encourage the roots to follow the water deep into the profile. The team is also investing more into their soil analysis and fertiliser programme to ensure the grass has all it needs, with a greater focus on the micronutrients that often get overlooked in a normal NPK feed.
With a strong relationship, with Daniel Jones of the Turf Care Group, we have been able to develop a detailed programme for the season. Whilst we are not keen to be piling loads of chemicals onto the pitch, we do want to make sure the grass
has enough support vitality ahead of the winter season. We are using a number of organic products from humus based fertilisers to liquid seaweed and biostimulants. As a company, we have a very strong approach to green initiatives and there is no reason why we can’t continue this theme whilst maintaining elite sports turf.
An insight into the playing season. A typical week for Paul and the team involves repairing the pitch from the previous weekend’s match. This is often done using a Quadraplay or, in the right conditions, a chain harrow. We will then brush and cut the pitch and irrigate if required. Generally, there may be some form of additional pitch usage one day during the week, whether this is from the high involvement Harlequins have with community rugby or the occasional corporate/sponsors day.
Thursday afternoons tend to be kicking practice, with a captain’s run on a Friday morning. This is usually a more relaxed affair where the coaches take a step back and allow the captain and the team run through the plays on their own. Friday afternoon will then be the build up to a match on Saturday. It’s not only the Aviva
Premiership season to be ready for, there is also the European Cup, LV Cup, A-League games, and the Stoop stadium’s close involvement with the England Ladies teams sees a number of home international games as well. All these fixtures do take their toll on the pitch, but it’s also the challenge that comes from maintaining top flight sports pitches.
As previously mentioned, Harlequins have a very strong community rugby programme. This involves junior teams of local clubs being able to play matches on the pitch prior to a Premiership game. Whilst this is not always ideal in the depths of winter when the weather is against you, we understand this is a big part of what Harlequins stand for. We love being part of the Harlequins family and working together to provide an elite playing surface, whether it be for the Harlequins or a community rugby event.
Nick, Paul and the Nurture team are looking forward to another successful season, and helping Harlequins to continue to cement their position as one of the top rugby clubs in the country.
New website -
www.schsupplies.co.uk Call 01473 328272
www.pitchcare.com PEST CONTROL
REPLACEMENT AND SPARE PARTS
The Tines Shop for good value, high quality Tines & Bedknives
Find a broad range of Tines and Bedknives online from
The Grass Group Delivered to your door
www.tines-shop.co.uk Tel: 01638 720123
Contact us on:
Phone: 01132 287 5318 Mobile: 07762 631297
SHOP ONLINE FOR REPLACEMENT
BLADES, BRUSHES & QUALITY ACCESSORIES
FREE CARRIAGE ON ORDERS OVER £100 FREE CARRIAGE ON ORDERS OVER £100
Swillington
Rollers A good selection of reconditioned rollers always in stock
TINES
Why not visit our online Buyers Guide for direct links to suppliers websites and email addresses
www.pitchcare.com PC AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2014 I 153
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