Aquatic and Marginal Planting

Lowther Forestry provides aquatic and marginal planting services for ponds, wetlands, watercourses and riparian zones across the United Kingdom. Our planting schemes support water quality, aquatic biodiversity and habitat creation as part of wider landscape, SuDS and ecological restoration projects.

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What We Deliver

We design and install planting schemes for ponds, retention basins, wetlands, reedbeds, swales, rainwater gardens, riparian corridors and riverbank margins. Species selection is tailored to site conditions, water depth, flow regime and ecological objectives, with a focus on native aquatic and marginal species that support biodiversity and long-term habitat value.

Aquatic and marginal planting is often delivered alongside drainage, SuDS and flood alleviation work. Well-chosen planting enhances the performance of sustainable drainage systems by improving filtration, pollutant removal and bank stabilisation. Our teams have access to amphibious plant and ultra-low ground pressure equipment, enabling safe and effective work in waterlogged, soft or ecologically sensitive environments.

Establishment aftercare is central to planting success. We provide monitoring, vegetation management and replacement planting programmes to ensure healthy growth and lasting ecological performance across every scheme.

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NHSS 18A, 18B
and 18C Accredited

Fully accredited for landscaping and arboriculture on the strategic road network, covering soft landscaping, hard landscaping and maintenance.
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One Team,
Tender to Delivery

One team from tender to delivery, for continuity, clear communication and lower risk.
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Sustainability

Our experienced managers maintain long-standing relationships with trusted UK nurseries specialising in native flora, ensuring sustainable procurement, quality stock, and enhanced biodiversity outcomes.

Trusted by the UK's Leading Contractors

Lowther Forestry works as a trusted landscaping subcontractor to many of the UK's largest construction and infrastructure firms. These relationships are built on decades of reliable delivery, competitive pricing and the ability to mobilise skilled teams at short notice across the country. Many of our Tier 1 clients have worked with us continuously for over ten years, returning project after project because of the consistency and quality we bring to their programmes.

SuDS and drainage landscaping by Lowther Forestry
SuDS and drainage landscaping by Lowther Forestry

Trusted By Main Contractors, Utilities and Public Bodies

Selected Project

GROUNDS MAINTENANCE AND VEGETATION MANAGEMENT Bessy Gill river restoration and natural flood management pond, Cumbria

Bessy Gill River Restoration and NFM Pond

Lowther were awarded the contract by Eden Rivers Trust to construct a natural flood management pond and carry out river restoration works at Bessy Gill near Great Strickland in Cumbria, as part of the Cumbria…

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Testimonials

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Thanks so much for going the extra mile to keep our roads safe. Your commitment to excellence really shows. Keep up the fantastic work.

5 Star Review for Wired by Jessops (Cornwall) icon.

Nationally recognised accreditations

NHSS 18A, 18B and 18C for landscaping and arboriculture on the strategic road network. ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management) and ISO 45001 (health and safety).

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BALI (British Association of Landscape Industries) logo
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ISO 45001 logo
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Five Offices Across the UK

Our regional offices sit in Penrith (Cumbria, head office), Castleford (Yorkshire and the North East), Runcorn (North West), Milton Keynes (South and East) and the West Midlands. Tree surveying and Advanced Tree Assessments are run from our Penrith team and travel nationally. Project teams come from the office closest to your site.

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Common Questions About Aquatic Planting

What types of water features do you plant?
We plant a wide range of aquatic and marginal environments, including ponds, retention basins, wetlands, reedbeds, swales, rainwater gardens, riparian corridors and riverbank margins. Each scheme is designed around the specific conditions and ecological objectives of the site.
How do you select species for aquatic planting?
Species selection is based on site conditions including water depth, flow regime, soil type and light levels. We prioritise native aquatic and marginal species that support local biodiversity, attract wildlife and provide long-term ecological value.
Can you work in active watercourses?
Yes. Our teams are experienced in working within and alongside active watercourses, rivers and streams. We use amphibious plant and ultra-low ground pressure equipment where needed, and follow strict environmental and biosecurity protocols to protect aquatic habitats during works.
Does aquatic planting integrate with SuDS schemes?
Yes. Aquatic and marginal planting is regularly delivered as part of wider SuDS and sustainable drainage projects. The right planting improves filtration, supports pollutant removal and stabilises banks, adding ecological value alongside the drainage function of the system.
What aftercare is needed for aquatic planting?
Aftercare typically includes regular monitoring, vegetation management and replacement planting where needed. Aquatic environments can be demanding during the establishment phase, so we provide structured programmes to support healthy growth and long-term ecological performance.