A RADICAL IMPROVEMENT

According to the head greenkeeper at Houghwood Golf Club, Michael Abbott, in less than a year, an ICL fortnightly tank-mix has radically improved the greens.

“When I show people photos of the greens last September compared to this September, they cannot believe it,” said Michael, who has worked at Houghwood for an incredible twenty-two years. 

Michael has seen the young course develop into one of the best in the area. Based in Lancashire, the course is an 18-hole, par 71 (6388 yard), private, parkland golf course and was the creation of two farmers in 1994.

Michael and his team of three have their challenges - particularly with some parts of the course which consists of heavy clay. He admits that his small team can feel stretched at times, and it is for this reason that he likes to be as prepared as possible.

“We’re a small team but we believe we can tackle any task put in front of us and I feel our experience is invaluable,” he said. “From a management point of view, I like having a plan in place and ICL has given me a superb integrated turf management (ITM) plan to follow.”

Houghwood Golf Club’s ITM programme was devised by ICL technical area sales manager Rob Ainscough and was based on the results of soil testing.

As part of the programme, Michael applies a fortnightly tank-mix on his greens which consists of Sportsmaster WSF Spring & Summer 28-5-19+TE, H2Pro TriSmart, Vitalnova Links and Primo Maxx II. 

“Since using this tank-mix, I’ve noticed improved playability,” said Michael. “There are no bare areas, no moss, just a nice, lovely coverage with great colour throughout all the greens. 

“It gives us consistency throughout the year with no flushes of growth and applying it fortnightly saves us time - which is another major reason for using the mixture.

“It’s also very cost-effective for us but most importantly, it works. The members have loved the improvements.”