Gramefo Graszoden is convinced of the advantages of DCM MIX 6 organo-mineral fertiliser

Name: Gramefo Graszoden - www.graszoden-eemnes.nl
Sector: Garden contracting
Location: Eemnes (the Netherlands)

We are visiting Marc and Frank Fokker of Gramefo Graszoden in Eemnes. Marc and Frank are the third generation of turfgrass producers in their family business. Together they own about 40 hectares of land. All plots are located around their company in Eemnes. The fields are clearly visible from the motorways A1 and A27. Gramefo is not only a producer of turfgrass, but also a dealer of DCM fertilisers. Its clientele consists of landscape contractors, private customers, municipalities and anyone else needing sod.

Long-lasting organic fertilisers instead of chemical fertilisers

Marc has taken a different approach to fertilization over the past year. ‘‘Previously, we only used fast-acting mineral fertilisers. Today, we opt for long-lasting fertilisers, including DCM organic fertilisers. I often noticed that the lawn quickly turned green after applying fertiliser, but that the colour disappeared after 2 weeks if it rained a lot,” explains Marc. 'In the autumn of 2021, I fertilized part of my turf with DCM MIX 6, a fertiliser with a high potassium content for hardening off in autumn. This fertiliser comes in the form of small, easy-to-apply granules that do not produce dust and do not fall apart during application, which makes the job easier.’ DCM's account manager adds: ‘With an organic fertiliser you obtain even growth without peaks or stress. Plants, especially grass plants, grow better in these conditions, causing less problems.’ Marc points out to us that a problem like red thread, in particular, is less present. ‘A mineral fertiliser applied in September will no longer have any effect at the end of October. I used to be faced with red thread in November and December. This problem did not occur on the plot fertilized with DCM MIX 6.’

DCM MIX 6

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In the meantime, the turf that has been fertilized organically has been harvested and delivered to the landscape contractors. The quality was good and customers were satisfied. Marc: ‘I plan to continue working this way in the future. I am convinced that by using an organic fertiliser I also stimulate soil life, which results in healthier roots. Ultimately, this benefits the quality of the turf. Another advantage is the number of fertiliser applications. Fast-acting mineral fertilisers must be spread far more frequently than long-lasting organic fertilisers. Organic fertilisers are spread approximately 3 times a year, fast-acting mineral fertilisers up to 6 times a year. This saves a lot of time, which is also a cost,’ says Marc.

Now that we are talking to Marc, we are also curious to know how fertiliser sales to landscape contractors are going. Marc is satisfied, ‘our turnover rate is steadily increasing every year. Landscape contractors who use them are satisfied and keep coming back. Landscape contractors are free to choose whether or not they use fertilisers. If they ask for advice, they can get it. A few euros more for fertilisers do not make a very big difference in the cost of a garden landscaping project, but the effect and result obtained with these fertilisers are much better. I see this especially for turf, of course.

Still a satisfied customer

I am convinced that by using an organic fertiliser I also stimulate soil life, which results in healthier roots. Ultimately, this benefits the quality of the turf.