I overcome conditions described as a ‘ worm cast
GOLF COURSES
Redexim Top-Brush proves transformational for the team at Malton & Norton Golf Club
nitially purchased to
I overcome conditions described as a ‘ worm cast
factory ’, a Redexim Top-Brush is proving to be a true multi-tasker for the team at Malton & Norton Golf Club . Head Greenkeeper Richard Jacques admits that prior to the purchase , the club underestimated how fundamental the 6m wide brush would become to the maintenance , with it successfully removing organic matter , improving cut quality and boosting presentation in twice weekly passes around the 27-hole complex .
Malton & Norton opened its doors in 1910 and its popularity with golfers in Yorkshire and further afield has seen the expansion of the site , to 27-holes of parkland play . “ Like most venues , the restrictions on chemicals left us trialling all types of brushes and mats to overcome our worm problem and we didn ’ t find anything that really worked until we demonstrated the Redexim Top-Brush ” explains Richard . “ It was evident from the get-go that , used in the right conditions and at the right time , the Top-Brush could effectively remove worm casts better than any of the alternatives we ’ d tried so we decided to purchase one through
Ripon Ground Care in October 2022 .”
“ We had no idea until we had it in the shed , how many uses we would find for the Top-Brush around the maintenance calendar . On top of dispersing worm casts , its out twice a week between March and October to stand the plant up on the fairways , improving the quality of cut and enhancing definition . There aren ’ t many pieces of equipment you get that can transform turf density and quality as much as this one has in such a short period of time .”
At 6m wide , the Top-Brush is a highly productive maintenance solution . As well as changing brush direction , working depth can also be adjusted , making it a versatile tool for a light surface brush – suitable for clearing dew , incorporating topdressing material or removing clippings - or a deeper , more aggressive surface agitation to effectively rid large areas of organic matter .
“ Having used the Top-Brush for over a year , we ’ re now in a position of managing worm casts preventatively – by reducing OM and improving density – resulting in fewer instances , which is a big positive .” Richard continues , “ That ’ s on top of hugely elevating the turf quality and appearance , not just on fairways but also approaches and semi-rough which is giving us a better product in the summer and one that ’ s more resilient to host play going into the winter months .”
www . redexim . com
30 GroundskeepingJournal . co . uk | March / April 2024