When Stuart Donald took on the role of Head Greenkeeper at Inverurie Golf Club in April 2024, he faced immediate challenges.
“The greens were full of thatch with a shallow black layer,” he recalls. “The course needed remedial work and a clear long-term strategy to improve turf health and playability.”
Stuart was able to draw on a programme he had used successfully at his previous club in Knebworth, Hertfordshire, which relied on advice and products from Headland Amenity.
Since Headland’s integration into Origin Amenity Solutions, he has continued that approach, benefiting from the same trusted technical advice and a broader range of science-led products. “The continuity of support and products has made a real difference here too,” he says.
Origin Amenity Solutions (OAS) is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of products and expertise for professional turf management. OAS combines decades of experience with innovative research to deliver healthier, more resilient and sustainable surfaces, providing the technical support and product range that enabled Stuart to implement his programme with confidence.
Within just a year, progress at Inverurie Golf Club has been remarkable. Stuart has overseen a reduction of around 30mm of thatch, which has reduced the black layer to encourage better rooting. He has successfully implemented a tree management plan that includes gorse reduction to aid better airflow and increase sunlight for the turf, alongside the construction of new ditches to dry out the course more quickly in the winter months.
Stuart’s course maintenance regime relies on a suite of proven OAS products. “We use ProTec Plus and Seamac, which really helps the turf recover and stay healthy,” he explains.
“Seamac Proturf Fe, Liquid Turf Hardener and Turfite Elite form part of our 20-20-30 tank mix, which we use in conjunction with Mantle and PPT114 to reduce the reliance on fungicides . I am planning for future years when we might not have the option of using fungicides due to ongoing restrictions.
“Tri-Cure and TerraFirm complete our programme by improving air-to-water ratios in the soil, to improve soil and root health.
“The results have been very encouraging. Better greens, improved grass coverage and more effective tree management. It’s all starting to show, members have noticed it too, with feedback on truer, smoother putting surfaces.”
For Stuart, the ongoing support from OAS has been just as important as the products themselves. “The advice and guidance from the advisors have been invaluable. Having worked with Headland Amenity for years, I was happy to continue when they became part of OAS as I could continue the programme I know works, with the added benefit of a wider range of resources and expertise.”
Over the past eighteen months, Inverurie Golf Club has undergone a tangible transformation. Through careful planning, practical interventions and the use of science-led products, Stuart and his team have turned challenging conditions into healthier, more resilient turf.
The improvements reflect both the dedication of the greenkeeping team and the trusted partnership with Origin Amenity Solutions.
