Enfield
Meet Caroline
A deep dive into sustainable gardening
Nestled amongst wildlife meadows and resident ducks, Caroline’s award winning pond plant nursery in Enfield has been making a splash since 1965, when they invented the (recycled, obvs) aquatic basket. Sixty years and multiple RHS gold medals later, they’re still surprising us with new varieties every year!
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Why choose native pond plants?
There are many reasons to choose native pond plants, including both wildlife appeal and aesthetic impact. Native pond plants are indigenous to the UK, and have shared an evolutionary pathway with the other wildlife found in British ponds. Aquatic environments are finely-tuned, and as such, it doesn’t take much to nudge this homeostasis out of balance. By using native pond plants, you’re more likely to keep that settled equilibrium between flora and fauna. It’s like baby bear’s po(nd)rridge – just right.
What are the best native pond plants?
Determining ‘the best’ of anything is always a bit subjective, but there are definitely native pond plants we’re particularly partial to here at Roots, including marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) and water crowfoot (Ranunculus aquatilis) on the flowering side of things, and water soldier (Stratiotes aloides), hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) and water violet (Hottonia palustris) on the foliage end. Honourable mentions also go to water avens (Geum rivale), ragged robin (Silene flos-cuculi) and purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).
Caring for native pond plants
Looking after native pond plants is much the same as any other pond plants. An application of aquatic fertiliser during spring can help your plants flourish and remain healthy. Plant your native pond plants in aquatic baskets to help keep them nice and secure (bog/marsh plants can be planted straight into the ground). Prune back marginals (like yellow flag iris – Iris pseudacorus) in winter, cutting back to healthy, green foliage. Thin out any plants that have become overcrowded, as they may take over your pond if you’re not careful.
Plants arrived in great condition and very promptly. Well established - much better than the ones I got at my local garden centre.
Monica Spence
| 24 May
Yet again this company delivered good healthy plants, exactly as shown in photos, well packaged and within delivery time quoted. Recommend!
Jacqueline Burgess
| 2 Jun
I continue to be so impressed with Roots. Their customer care, knowledge of their subject: from planting hedges to pruning roses and more, has been a great support.
Judy Lane
| 23 Oct
The plant arrived looking vigorously healthy, which brings a smile to your face, extremely well protected in its packaging.
Martyn Hill
| 5 Jul
As a non-gardener, I found my whole experience brilliant. Great information & advice available on the website, great range of products & prices are brilliant.
John-Paul
| 22 May
Wonderful plants and great customer service... really surprised to find that the plants are better than those you would get at your local garden centre.
Gavin Wilcock
| 8 Nov
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