- Research matters: an overview and update on research projects
Research matters: an overview and update on research projects
Research matters: an overview and update on research projects
11 ‑ 11.45am
An opportunity to get the headlines from four university‑based fundamental turf research projects being managed by ICL. There will be a focus on presenting the key results and practical outcomes on the subjects of managing plant parasitic nematodes with seaweed extracts, utilising recycled nutrients, contrasting the plant and soil health benefits of organo‑mineral fertilisers and the very latest science on wetting agents and plant water uptake.
Learning Outcomes:
- Characteristics of good quality research and why it is so important to the turf industry
- How seaweed extracts can be utilised to manage plant parasitic nematodes in turf
- Contrast turf response to organo‑mineral fertilisers with mineral and organic versions
- The added value of utilising recycled nutrients within a fertiliser programme
- How wetting agents work to aid water and nutrient uptake in sports turf rootzones
Presented by: Dr Andy Owen, International Technical Manager and Henry Bechelet, Technical Manager, ICL

Dr Andy Owen
International Technical Manager ICL Turf & Landscape
Dr Andy Owen is the International Technical Manager for ICL Growing Solutions, Turf and Landscape Division.
He is a sports-turf agronomist and a soil scientist who has previously worked as a researcher at the STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute), and a lecturer at Myerscough College.
His current role focuses on research and new product development for the Turf and Landscape division at ICL.
He is passionate about the communication of technical knowledge within our industry and the promotion of good research practice.

Henry Bechelet
Technical Sales Manager UK & Ireland ICL Turf & Landscape
Henry Bechelet is Technical Sales Manager for ICL Growing Solutions, Turf and Landscape Division in the UK & Ireland. Henry has been in the turf industry for over 25 years. He originally trained as an agricultural agronomist but then joined the turfgrass industry as a trainee agronomist in the early 90’s. Henry has spent roughly half his career engaged in independent consultancy and the other half on the commercial side of the industry.