An existing pond at Padnall Lake had limited habitat as it was concrete-lined. As part of a new housing development, the developer wanted to improve the pond’s aesthetics as well as the environment.
Salix worked with the designers, HTA, to provide a solution, which consisted of creating marginal habitat shelves. New banks were formed within the pond using a retaining feature, with a finish level very close to the water level. Pre-established coir pallets were installed on the new shelves, which provide mature vegetation to rapidly speed up the establishment and increase habitat.
Salix contract grew the pre-established Coir Pallets for the project. Different species mixes were used around the edge of the pond, including a monoculture of purple loosestrife lythrum salicaria and a mix of other native species.
The pre-established Coir Pallets were installed in a summer heatwave in 2022. As the plants matured within the pre-established coir pallets, they were more resilient to extreme weather conditions than plug planting.
Since installation, the plants have thrived to provide a robust marginal habitat around Padnall Lake.
Products used
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Pre-established Coir PalletsSalix produce a wide range of pre-established coir pallets planted with high quality native plant species. Coir pallets are composed from coir fibre which is a sustainable waste product from the husk of the coconut shell.
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Wetland PlantsSalix are the largest grower of native wetland plants in the UK – perfect for use in green infrastructure, peatland restoration, wetland creation and other habitat projects.
