Floating Ecosystems Installed at the Iconic RHS Wisley Gardens
September 3, 2024
In mid-June this year, Biomatrix Water Solutions installed two Floating Ecosystems at the historic Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Wisley Gardens. Following a networking event in July 2023, Josh Pridding from Biomatrix and Leo McEwen from the RHS collaborated and, with the support of their senior management, brought this exciting project to life.
This installation, viewed as an educational opportunity, was completed by 14 RHS apprentices and diploma students and Biomatrix project managers. Biomatrix shared experience on the design and installation of Floating Ecosystem modules and explained how the structure develops into a thriving ecosystem, by mimicking lost wetland habitats to increase the abundance and biodiversity of fish, pollinators and birds in the water environment.
“I am so happy to have the Biomatrix rafts here at Wisley. The plants are starting to establish well and it’s refreshing to see how well the islands wick water, so far mitigating the need for irrigation entirely, despite a few hot weather spells. Our visitors are also showing interest in the new planting system and have been giving positive feedback to our team and on social media.”
Leo McEwen
Diploma student at RHS Wisley Gardens
This collaboration between the RHS and Biomatrix not only allows the RHS to showcase the revolutionary Floating Ecosystems technology but also paves the way for future research. Members of Wisley have generously agreed to study the benefits that Floating Ecosystems provide to watercourses.
The symmetrical Floating Ecosystems have been installed in the Glasshouse Lake, enhancing the stunning architecture and facing the newly completed Piet Oudolf landscape. Biomatrix strongly encourages everyone to visit this beautiful, historic site.
Biomatrix and the RHS team after completing the installation
Island freshly planted in mid-June. Island almost exactly two months later.
