The next evolution - Issue 116

At the time of going to press, a Scottish golf club declared August was the wettest month of the year with 113mm of rain (and still over a week to go)!

That said, I think the rest of the UK has enjoyed some sunshine over the past few weeks, and with that, as the atmosphere warms, its ability to hold moisture increases. As Mark Hunt details in his regular column, it is an oft-quoted fact that for every 1°C increase in air temperature, air can hold 7% more moisture. As humidity is a measure of atmospheric moisture content, this also means an increased risk of disease. It’s a very interesting subject, so take a look at the article on page 44.

Focusing on disease this month, we also have a great article from Dr. Jonathan Knowles - Head of Sports Turf Academy at Leicester City Football Club - who tells us how Pythium diseases are a significant challenge in turf management. Pythium is a pervasive problem across the UK, affecting virtually all types of turf and going mostly unnoticed or misdiagnosed despite their widespread impact. Read the article on page 68.

In an industry where networking, sharing information and continuing to learn are key, in our cover article this issue we delve into how turf managers can help each other (page 8).

Hybrid pitches are spearheading the next evolution in cricket and we have two in-depth articles - starting on page 46 with an opinion from Andy Mackay, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Pitches and Grounds Advisor. Andy reflects on its value for the groundsman and the maintenance regimes these new surfaces require; whilst the next article from SISGrass helps build an understanding of the technology’s background and conception.

Show season is upon us and we very much look forward to seeing you all at GroundsFest (10th and 11th September at Stoneleigh Park). Visit our stand RB251 where the Pitchcare shop team will have a range of Helly Hansen workwear, plus the opportunity to get familiar with the Cresco Spreader. Myself and James will also be there if you need to update your magazine subscription and/or speak to us about a potential future article. You can see what’s on offer at the show in our preview on page 40 with the GroundsFest team.

We will also be attending Saltex (30th and 31st October at the NEC), so say hello if you are visiting the show.

See you soon!

Kerry
t: 07973 394037    
e: kerry.haywood@pitchcare.com