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Hobbies

Get ready for an unparalleled mountain biking experience for the whole family!

by Tania Griffin August 30, 2023

written by Tania Griffin

One of Stellenbosch’s most exciting family-oriented mountain bike events, the Fedhealth MTB Challenge, welcomes Root44 as a new venue on Saturday, 9 and Sunday, 10 September 2023. As the location changes, so do the routes – promising entrants an adventure like never before!

“Root44 in a dream venue for adventurous families who enjoy the outdoors,” says Michael Meyer, managing director of Stillwater Sports, the organiser of the event. “We can’t wait to treat mountain bikers, young and old, to a fantastic experience on and off the bike.

“The Fun Ride (+/-15km) features a total ascent of 300m and will consist mostly of open farm and vineyard roads, with three sections of easy, non-technical single track. This event is not technical, and is guaranteed to be a fun-filled, relaxed experience. Iconic sections will include the magnificent views at Stellenrust Wine Estate and the trails at Alto Estate and Ernie Else Wines.

“Featuring a 580m ascent, the Half Marathon (+/-30km) will consist of flat farm roads with long stretches of easy single track in the middle sections,” he confirms. “Riders who are used to this distance won’t find this route to be technical. There are no sudden surprises or drop-offs.

“Dornier’s 7km single track is guaranteed to be a favourite. This event is suited both to adults who prefer the more relaxed part of mountain biking, and the more competitive teenager. A word of advice: On a rainy day, the trails may be slippery. Rather push your bike if it does not feel safe under the wheels.”

“The Marathon (+/-60km) is for the more serious mountain biker,” continues Meyer. “With a total ascent of 1 200m, this route includes open farm roads, smooth single track, and more technical riding at Mont Marie. The first 10km are mostly flat, before the climb toward the top of Mont Marie starts. Our route designer likes to say that ‘a technical heaven awaits’. Thereafter, the Dornier loop and upper Blaauwklippen Valley await, with landowners agreeing to open their gates for the most scenic ride. Next up is what will feel like an endless descent toward Stellenzicht Wines and into the full trail network of Alto Estate and Ernie Els Wines. The last few kilometres will be flattish. The fun sections at Mont Marie and the views at the top of the upper Blaauwklippen Valley are guaranteed to be route highlights. This route is ideal for fit mountain bikers who possess a fair amount of technical skill.”

In closing, he adds: “Irrespective of the distance chosen, entrants are guaranteed to have a mountain biking experience to remember at the 2023 Fedhealth MTB Challenge. With our Festival Village nestled at Root44, non-mountain biking family members and supporters are catered for as well. We can’t wait to welcome mountain bikers of all ages, family members and friends to the Fedhealth MTB Challenge in September.”

EVENT INFORMATION

Saturday, 9 September 2023

Venue: Root44, Stellenbosch

Event: 15km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Fun Ride)
Start Time: 08h00
Entry Fee: R225

Event: Fedhealth Kids MTB Events: not timed
Distances:
• 500m / 1 – 5 years of age
• 1.5km / 6 – 9 years of age
• 5km / 10 – 13 years of age

Start Time: from 10h00
Entry Fee: R100

Sunday, 10 September 2023

Venue: Root 44, Stellenbosch

Event: +/- 60km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Marathon)
Time: 08h00
Entry Fee: R475 per rider (excludes CSA Licence)

Event: +/-30km Fedhealth MTB Challenge (Half Marathon)
Time: 08h30
Entry Fee: R375 per rider (excludes CSA Licence)

CSA Temp Licence: R60

Entries close: Monday, 4 September 2023

The entry fee includes an exclusive technical event T-shirt (Fedhealth Kids MTB Events included) and a drawstring bag; medals will be awarded to all finishers.

FREE ENTRY: Fedhealth members can enter free of charge – simply by typing in their membership number when entering online!

CHARITY SUPPORT: When entering online, mountain biking enthusiasts can show their support for The Kindness Collaboration, the chosen charity of this fun-filled family event. Founded by Fedhealth and Operation Healing Hands, The Kindness Collaboration offers much-needed support to South Africans who cannot afford quality medical care.

August 30, 2023 0 comment

Hobbies Household

Six steps to successful and safe tree felling

by Tania Griffin July 27, 2023

written by Tania Griffin

Winter and early spring are the perfect time for felling trees because all those bare branches make it easier to see what you’re doing. But whether you are a seasoned professional or a homeowner, tree felling is a dangerous business that requires proper planning and the right working techniques to make sure it’s done safely and effectively.

Charles Henderson, Husqvarna‘s tree professional business development manager, knows a thing or two about this. “Winter is the tree-felling sweet spot. The lack of leaves makes it a breeze for arborists and loggers to assess a tree’s health, spot any potential issues and pick the right ones to cut down,” he says. “Homeowners should also take advantage of this opportune time if they need to cut down any trees in their gardens.”

Remember, though, that the most important part of tree felling is safety first! Whether you’re a pro or a first-time tree-feller, Henderson recommends following these six steps to complete the task with confidence:

1. Start with a plan

Before commencing any tree-felling project, it’s crucial to plan. Take a close look at the tree’s surroundings and identify any potential obstacles that may interfere with the felling process. Consider factors such as the tree’s size, shape and proximity to structures or power lines. This assessment will guide you in selecting the right tools and safety equipment needed for the job. For bigger trees, a chainsaw will always be the most efficient and effective tool – and it makes post-felling work a lot easier, too.

2. Identify the felling direction

Carefully study the tree and assess the direction in which it naturally leans. Additionally, take note of the wind direction, as this should align with the tree’s natural lean to ensure a controlled fall. Clear the area around the tree and in the direction of the intended fall to create a safe working zone.

3. Trim the trunk

Before making the felling cut, it’s essential to prune the tree’s trunk by removing any branches and twigs up to shoulder height. This will ensure you have a clean and unobstructed cutting path to enhance the safety and precision of the tree’s fall.

4. Determine the cutting technique

If you’re using a chainsaw, the appropriate cutting technique depends on various factors including the tree’s size, slope and the size of your chainsaw bar. There are different cutting methods such as the notch and back-cut technique or the plunge cut technique, each suited for specific scenarios. If you’re unsure about the best approach, don’t chance it. Get advice from a professional.

5. Inspect for rot or disease

Inspect the tree’s timber and lower part of the trunk for any signs of rot or disease. A weakened or decaying tree can behave unpredictably during felling, posing significant risks. If you detect any structural issues, reconsider felling the tree and consult an arborist for expert advice.

6. Establish an escape route

Before starting the final cut, make sure you have a clear and safe path of retreat. This path should be at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the tree’s fall. Having a designated escape route is crucial for maintaining your safety during the felling process.

Henderson reiterates prioritising safety above everything else, adding: “Even with careful planning and preparation, tree removal can be hazardous. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable with the process, hire a professional with the necessary expertise and equipment.”

He also emphasises the need to plant one or two new trees for every tree felled. “This practice is essential for maintaining a balanced and thriving ecosystem. By planting new trees, we can offset the environmental impact of tree removal and ensure a sustainable future, keeping the cycle of tree planting and cutting in harmony.”

July 27, 2023 0 comment

Hobbies Household

Pruning: where you cut is as important as how you cut

by Tania Griffin July 18, 2023

written by Tania Griffin

Winter is the best time to prune deciduous trees and shrubs, as they are dormant during this time. The risk of infection to the cuts are lower and the plant will likely recover well. For best results, you should always use the right tools and be sure to make your cut in the right place.

Pruning is a must to maintain the health and attractive look of trees and shrubs. We prune to remove dead or diseased plant limbs, to encourage growth, and to maintain the ideal size and shape of a tree or shrub. Pruning can also be done to remove parts of a plant damaged by frost or storms, and to promote flowering and fruiting in the coming season.

Where and how to make your pruning cuts to achieve a particular result requires careful consideration. Make sure you have the right tools before you start and make sure they are sharp enough. Ragged cuts don’t heal well and are vulnerable to infection.

Stand back, take a good look at the plant and picture the final shape, size and height.

GARDENA, the leading supplier of premium gardening tools, shares four basic pruning cuts that you can make for different purposes. Once you’re ready, follow these helpful principles to achieve the best results:

1. The Heading Cut

This cut removes the upper portion, or head, of a branch, just above a bud. You aren’t topping the branch, just cutting back to a specific bud. Make the cut approximately 3cm above the bud at a 45-degree angle. Plants respond to heading cuts by activating the bud immediately below the cut to generate new heading branches. The new branches will grow more buds, more flowers, and more fruit. Because heading cuts stimulate growth, they will make the plant denser, so avoid this cut if this is not desired.

2. The Thinning Cut

Thinning cuts remove entire branches from within a tree or shrub, usually to expose the interior of the plant. Make the cut very close to the branch collar, the enlarged ring-like growth area at the base of the branch. Do not cut into the branch collar, as it contains the specialised cells that will grow over and heal the cut. Do not leave a stub either, as the cells can’t grow over the stub to heal the cut. Make the cut right next to the collar so that only the raised, textured ring remains.

With the branches removed, the tree or shrub will channel energy and nutrients past the cut and concentrate growth along the main, leading branches. The interior will also receive more sunlight and air. This allows flowering and fruiting throughout the plant, but may also cause the plant to grow taller and wider.

3. The Releadering Cut

This cut removes a portion of a lead branch above a lateral branch, causing the lateral branch to become the new leader. Make this cut approximately 3-6mm above the joint of the lead and lateral branches. Imagine a straight line cutting across the lead branch and meeting the lateral branch to form an imaginary triangle. Angle the blade of your cutting tool so that it points to the tip (where the line meets the lateral branch) of your imaginary triangle.

For this cut to be successful, the lateral branch must be at least one-third of the diameter of the lead. If smaller, the lateral will not be strong enough to become the new lead branch. Releadering cuts immediately reduce the height and width of a tree or shrub and change the direction in which it grows. This cut also slows growth and can be used to control the size of the plant over a longer period.

4. The Jump Cut

Jump cuts are made to reduce the weight of heavy branches before making a final cut. This is done to prevent cracking and tearing injuries to the area where the final cut is made on the tree or shrub.

The first cut is made from the underside of the branch approximately 15cm from the point where the final cut is desired (usually the branch collar). Cut halfway through the branch. The second cut is made from the topside of the branch, about 1-2.5cm further out from the first cut. If done correctly, the branch will break away cleanly from the tree or shrub and leave a stump. The third and final cut is made to trim the stump to the desired length or right next to the branch collar (if the whole branch is to be removed).

Which tools are best for which cuts?

Your choice of tool is not so much determined by the type of cuts but rather by the type of plant and the thickness of the branches. GARDENA stocks a wide range of pruning tools that satisfy basic, comfort and premium requirements. Follow these guidelines in your selection:

1. Secateurs – for soft branches with diameters up to 25mm
2. Loppers – for thicker branches with diameters up to 45mm
3. Hedge clippers – for hedges or solitary shrubs
4. SlimCut Lopper – for dense undergrowth and hard-to-reach areas
5. StarCut Lopper – for pruning high branches from the ground (max. height 6m)
6. AccuShears – battery-operated shears for trimming hedges and lawn edges

July 18, 2023 0 comment

Hobbies Household Press Release

Ensure the longevity of your outdoor power equipment during winter

by Tania Griffin June 21, 2023

written by Tania Griffin

With the arrival of winter, the need for utilising most of your battery-operated outdoor equipment to cut the lawn, trim trees and hedges, and perform other outdoor tasks diminishes. While your chainsaws, lawnmowers and trimmers may be idle for the season, by following tried and tested cleaning, storage and maintenance guidelines, when the warmer weather returns you’re guaranteed that your trusted tools will start first time, every time.

“Ensuring the longevity of your outdoor power equipment involves regular maintenance, and winter service is one of the most important steps,” says Johan Kruger, Husqvarna’s national sales manager. “To guarantee optimal performance and maximise the benefits of these tools in spring, there are a few essential measures one should take.”

His top tips when storing your battery-operated outdoor equipment during the winter months include:

1. Longevity and performance

Over time, your hard-working tools accumulate dirt, debris and residue from regular use. Neglecting to clean them can allow these substances to corrode the equipment, leading to rust, clogged filters and decreased efficiency. Ensure your outdoor tools are clean by giving them a thorough wash using warm water and a cloth, followed by a gentle wipe-down with a microfibre towel. This process eliminates any detrimental substances and safeguards against potential damage before storage.

2. Identify any issues

Winter cleaning provides an excellent opportunity to inspect your outdoor equipment, too. While cleaning, pay attention to any signs of wear and tear, loose or damaged parts and any potential mechanical issues. If you note any such issues, it is a good idea to take your equipment to your nearest Husqvarna dealer so they can service it for you before you store it for winter. By taking care of this when the equipment is not in use, your trusty tools will be in optimal condition when spring arrives – preventing downtime and avoiding unexpected disruptions.

3. Store your battery

When preparing for winter storage, it’s essential to take a few guidelines into account that will significantly influence the lifespan of your batteries. The most important is that the lithium-ion battery must be removed from the battery compartment of all your battery-operated equipment when it’s not in use. Once removed, give the batteries a quick wipe and a fresh charge. Make sure you place them in an area that’s dry and where they won’t be exposed to extremely cold weather. Husqvarna batteries should be stored at a temperature between 5°C and 25°C, so your garage or shed should work well. Store your batteries on a plastic or wood shelf, keeping them at least 10cm apart.

4. Maintain a 50% charge

When storing your equipment for longer than 30 days, you need to inspect your batteries every couple of weeks. In order to enhance their longevity, a battery should be maintained at 50% charged. To assess its status, simply press the button located at the back of the battery. If the charge level has fallen below 50%, give it a quick recharge and continue to check regularly. When you are ready to power up your tools in the spring, give it a full charge and you’ll be good to go!

“By investing a little time and effort in proper maintenance during the winter season, you will ensure your battery-operated tools remain in tip-top condition, guaranteeing their readiness to tackle all those outdoor jobs for a beautiful summer garden,” concludes Kruger.

June 21, 2023 0 comment

Hobbies

Five ways to boost your garden’s biodiversity

by Tania Griffin May 12, 2023

written by Tania Griffin

Amid the current condition of our natural world and the continuous and devastating effects wrought upon it by global warming, it is now more crucial than ever to actively work toward enhancing biodiversity. Everyone can play a part, says Divan Vermaak, Husqvarna South Africa’s veld management specialist – and for most of us, the easiest place to start is in our gardens.

“At Husqvarna, we believe that every garden can contribute to the preservation and advancement of biodiversity, and we’ve developed a range of tools that make it easier for gardeners to manage and maintain these spaces,” he continues. “From a window box in an apartment to a large country estate, by increasing biodiversity in your green space, you are contributing to the healthy ecosystems that we rely on to provide the air we breathe and the food we eat.”

To encourage everyone to get involved in the well-being of our fauna and flora, Vermaak shares his top tips to create a garden brimming with biodiversity:

1. Cultivate nectar-rich plants.

By planting more flowers and fruit-bearing trees, you will be creating a delectable buffet for insects including bees, butterflies and other pollinators that are vital to our food systems. From hibiscus to rosemary to buffalo thorn and aloes, choosing a range of seasonal plants that flower and bear fruit at different times of the year will ensure a steady supply of nectar and pollen and attract a variety of wildlife.

2. Add a splash of water.

Whether it’s an elegant fountain, a birdbath, a small pond or a trough, you’ll be surprised at how quickly adding water to the mix will attract a variety of wildlife to your garden. A water feature is a platform for a whole new palate of plants that will also attract a range of aquatic wildlife including frogs and dragonflies – and running or bubbling water is particularly attractive to birds. Be sure to change the water regularly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and avoid using chemicals such as chlorine.

3. Create a fauna habitat.

Encouraging wildlife to visit and live in your garden will not only keep your green space thriving and control pests, but they’re also hugely enjoyable. You can attract birds, bats, owls and pollinators to your garden by creating habitats for them. From bird boxes to bug hotels and frog pots, you can choose to attract certain species. Why not have a go at making your own instead of buying one? It’s a great project for you and the kids and a wonderful way of teaching them about biodiversity, too.

4. Eliminate invasive alien plants.

While some alien plants and trees may be attractive, removing them from your garden will provide space for a wider range of indigenous plants. These are better adapted to the local climate and soil conditions – and by including them in your garden, you will attract a variety of native wildlife including birds, butterflies and other insects.

5. Limit the use of pesticides.

Chemicals spell disaster when creating a biodiverse garden. Not only do they kill the species they are targeting but also everything else that comes into contact with them. Instead, try using natural methods to control pests or at the very least, only use chemical pesticides when necessary in small localised areas when beneficial insects are not present or active.

Vermaak says that whatever task you want to tackle to encourage biodiversity in your garden, Husqvarna has a tool that will make the job easier. “The company has spent the past 100 years creating tools to help people look after nature. Whether it’s forestry, farming, landscaping, veld management or gardening, our comprehensive range of equipment helps our customers manage and maintain their green spaces and, ultimately, promote biodiversity.”

May 12, 2023 0 comment