Flora-tec Case Studies

Flora-tec case study: Fujitsu, Observatory House, Slough. June 07

Brief
Due to neglect, the existing planting in Fujitsu’s Slough office was in poor condition and covered in pests. The carpets were sticky with insects, the windows and mirrors were smeared with honeydew, and the compost was dry and lifeless.

Flora-tec was commissioned to redesign and maintain the planting to the atrium reception area and open plan offices.

Solution
As you enter the reception area you enter a large atrium with built in flower beds surrounding the space.

Behind the glass-walled lifts, a large planter bed has been planted with lush large-leaved plants such as Strelitzias, Philodendrons and a 3 metre high Yucca. This was designed to give the effect of coming out of the jungle as the lift ascends.

The beds planted with Cactus had to be planted with low-growing plants to ensure security staff had a clear view of the entrance. These beds are also shallow and their position means that they dry out incredibly fast. These beds are planted with Cacti and other succulents to give added interest as you move through the space.

The other planters feature large Kentia palms to create impressive focal points, and the long narrow beds are planted with Ctenenthe.

The client wanted a simple design in the container, so we used containers with a stylish silver textured finish.

Maintenance
Planting has to be suitable for its environment. Flora-tec’s careful selection of suitable specimens means that the plants are thriving.

Aftercare maintenance of the planting is of paramount importance for the plants’ well-being and longevity. A twice-monthly visit regime keeps the planting in tip top condition and enables the technicians to detect any potential health issues.

We used a reduced-peat compost, which incorporated an insecticide and nutrient to benefit the planting whilst it was establishing, and a regular check for any signs of pests is carried out and organic treatment applied when necessary.

All planters have watering systems; our research has confirmed that this encourages roots to grow deeper, and the plants are stronger and healthier. The planting is checked regularly to ensure that each plant gets the correct amount of water. This site also benefits from a slow release fertiliser regime which ensures controlled application throughout the seasons.

Carolyn, an experienced and highly trained technician, maintains this site with regular input from her Manager to ensure standards remain high.

There are areas within the building that are highly sensitive and often access is restricted, so the technician works closely with the building manager to ensure that the plants in these areas are well maintained.

A regular quarterly meeting takes place between the facilities team and the senior Management to ensure the health & safety documentation, COSHH details, Method Statements and Risk assessments are kept up to date.

Fujitsu is a demanding client, with extremely high standards and regular monitoring of all service providers against the KPIs. Flora-tec have always scored highly, often exceeding the client’s expectation.