INNOVATIONS
West Coast Turf launches Ready Play Grass
West Coast Turf is introducing its new line of Ready Play Grass natural grass sod grown on plastic for instant use .
“ We have been growing sod on plastic for several years ,” said West Coast Turf ’ s Arizona Operations General Manager , Jay Danek . “ We are confident in the product we ’ ve developed over that time and wanted to bring Ready Play Grass to a bigger market . There is a need for a grass surface that can be used right away .
“ The reason its grown on plastic is for the strength of the plant itself ,” Danek added . “ Similar to when you buy a plant at a nursery where the roots are bound in a ball since they can ’ t go through the plastic . It makes the strength of the sod three to four times of what a normal sod field is by becoming root-bound . The intertwining roots develop a tight mat of rhizomes to firm up the surface , giving it a study base of strength . It weighs about 18 pounds per square foot and can be grown up to two inches thick . After the sod is put down , it is not going anywhere . You can play on it instantly .”
Ready Play Grass is ideal for sports fields , golf course tees and driving ranges and on top of artificial turf fields when a temporary natural grass field is required .
Kubota adds new models to ZD Series and F Series
Kubota Tractor Corporation introduced the ZD1611 zero-turn mower and F3710 front-mounted mower .
The ZD1611 replaces the ZD1511 in Kubota ’ s ZD Series , and features a 30.8-hp . Kubota Common Rail System ( CRS ) diesel engine that delivers power , torque and reliable performance . The ZD1611 is available in three deck configurations : a 72-inch side-discharge mower , and 60- and 72-inch rear-discharge mowers . The ZD1611 features an air-ride suspension seat with reclining and lumbar support that can be adjusted with the touch of a button . A 12V power outlet conveniently placed in the cup holder allows for the charging of electronic devices .
The F3710 replaces the F3990 in Kubota ’ s F Series , and is equipped with a 36.9-hp . Kubota CRS diesel engine .
Available with both side-discharge and rear-discharge pro-commercial mower decks in 60 inches and 72 inches , the F3710 ’ s high lifting capacity provides the versatility to handle an array of implements like a grass catcher , snow blower , rotary sweeper and debris blower , and is compatible with all implements currently available for Kubota mowers . An LCD digital panel comes standard on the F3710 . A deluxe high-back seat with four separate adjustments helps keep operators comfortable and productive all day long .
Husqvarna unveils 525i battery series
Husqvarna launched its 525i battery series product line , which features a string trimmer and two dedicated edgers . All 525i battery series products are equipped with a Husqvarna E-Torq motor , which supplies the power needed to meet the performance of 25cc petrol equivalents while exceeding them in torque . A metal skidplate over the gearbox protects the machine from daily wear and tear and accidental drops . All-day comfort is also top of mind as each machine includes ergonomically placed rubber grips for a more comfortable workday . Additionally , the series is IPX4 certified for weather resistance so users can operate the equipment rain or shine .
The 525iLST string trimmer is a robust , highperformance professional battery grass trimmer that ’ s designed for full-time use , complete with an 18.1 ” cutting diameter .
The 525iES straight-shaft edger has an 8 ” standard steel blade which provides the ability to cut clean , crisp lines in the grass and dirt against solid perimeters .
The 525iECS curved-shaft edger features a blade speed that ’ s nearly double that of a straight edger , making it an ideal tool for lighter-duty edging . The offset design also gives the operator a better view of the blade .
46 SportsField Management | June 2023 sportsfieldmanagementonline . com