Customer Story | Municipality of Heusden

“Consistent growth without peaks”

From public green to sports turf management
For nearly forty years, Lion van Logten has been working in public green maintenance. He started as a grounds worker and parks maintenance employee and advanced to coordinator and sports field manager for the Municipality of Heusden.
Today, he oversees more than 45 football pitches, plus several hockey, handball, and athletics facilities.

“We handle almost everything ourselves, except for major renovations and heavy maintenance.
I always say: I’d rather mow once more than have to sweep — it saves both time and money.”

Consistent growth with controlled release

Six years ago, Heusden switched to Mivena Controlled-Release Fertilizers (CRF), supplied by Vitagro.
Since then, the turf growth has become smoother and more predictable. While previous fertilizers caused visible peaks and dips, the CRF program ensures even, steady development throughout the season.

“With Mivena, the grass grows much more evenly.
It’s ten times better — maybe even fourteen.”

Mivena’s temperature-responsive coating follows the soil temperature. Nutrients are released only when the grass is actively growing, minimizing losses and keeping growth consistent — even through changing weather.

Smart seeding: strong base, fast recovery

Heusden deliberately opts for two grass species, each with its own role. During renovations we sow in two stages: first the smooth-stalked meadow grass, and after five mowing cycles we overseed with perennial ryegrass. The meadow grass forms a ‘concrete layer’ at the base of the turf: strong horizontal runners with deep roots that create a stable, firm foundation. The perennial ryegrass above it provides fast coverage, a fresh green colour and strong recovery after wear. Together they create a dense, durable turf that maintains its quality even under heavy use.

“Bluegrass holds the turf together; ryegrass fills up quickly and looks sharp.”

A proper starter fertilizer helps the turf close faster, minimizing weed pressure.
The result is a dense, resilient playing surface that stays strong even under heavy use.