For R J Jochimsen Contractors, a Verti-Drain and a pair of Verti-Quakes from Charterhouse Turf Machinery fit the bill for aeration versatility and adaptability. The company does maintenance and renovation projects for councils, utility companies and sports clubs in the West Sussex area.
Managing director Rob Jochimsen says: “Week to week we’ll be working on different surfaces – football, rugby, polo fields, gallops. They all require different maintenance techniques, but aeration is one that goes across the board. Having the two different machines and working them in conjunction with one another means that no matter the requirement, conditions or sports surface, we have the machine to suit.”
The company’s Verti-Drain 7626 is now into its 5th season. “We chose this machine initially as it was a good match for our tractor and since then it’s proved to be a real workhorse,” comments Rob. “The unit’s weight means it penetrates the surface, rather than bouncing over it. Spring and autumn/winter are peak times for the Verti-Drain.”
With the Verti-Drain 7626 taking care of the deep aeration work, the pair of Verti-Quake 2516’s work on compaction within the top 6-8 inches. “These come into their own when the ground is too firm or when the surface is wet, requiring lighter units to be used,” says Rob. “The smaller, lighter Verti-Quake 2516 runs on a compact tractor, which gives us the flexibility to choose the most effective machine. Another plus point is the range of tine options. We’ve been working on some polo fields this year, using ½ inch finger tines, but we also carry tines suitable for hollow coring. These machines give us the versatility to deal with whatever surface comes our way, and even more importantly, the customers are pleased with the work. That’s the main thing!”
www.charterhouse-tm.co.uk/