Landscape & Urban Design Issue 44 2020 | Page 18

GROUNDSKEEPING One of Maidstone Rugby Club’s three pitches The result is that at the active germination stage, each emerging seedling has immediate access to a highly beneficial package of targeted nutrients, biostimulants and micronised mycorrhizal fungi that together aid early establishment, improved root mass development and accelerated leaf extension. Derived from composted chicken litter with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from mineral sources, Delta slow release (over six-eight weeks) fertilisers promote improved microbial activity, with the inherent carbon stimulating the soil microbes. Bob and team use a hand spreader to apply the 12-4-8 formulation in winter and 8-6-6 in summer. “I do compare these products with others but have always found Rigby Taylor products to be effective and competitively priced,” Bob comments. Coupled with a sward height of 30 mm and a dedicated approach by the team of volunteers, the pitches hold up well to their constant use by the 500 or so club members comprising four senior men’s teams as well as youth and mini sections covering age groups from U7s to U18s: two of the three pitches are in action every Saturday and Sunday. “One of the main bugbears is to ensure spectators actually stand behind the touchlines,” adds Bob. “People standing in a concentrated area can often do more damage than the players!” www.rigbytaylor.com 18 www.landud.co.uk Follow us @ludmagazine