Macplants

Macplants, a hardy plant nursery in East Lothian

Macplants is a nursery and garden centre located at Berrybank Nursery in Pencaitland, East Lothian, near Edinburgh. The business grows and sells hardy plants, including herbaceous perennials, alpines, ornamental grasses and ferns, as well as a selection of shrubs, roses and climbers. Its plant shop and garden centre is open from spring to autumn and has parking for customers.

Over 1,500 varieties grown on the nursery itself

The nursery produces more than 1,500 varieties, a number that exceeds what can be displayed in the shop. For this reason, in addition to in-person sales, it offers a reserve and collect service where customers can pre-order any of the varieties from the full catalogue published on its website. Orders are placed by adding items to the basket, selecting the collection option and allowing the company 48 hours to prepare it; the nursery calls when the order is ready.

Specialisation in perennials and alpines

The company has been growing top-quality perennials and alpines in East Lothian since 1979 and presents itself as a specialist in hardy perennials, with one of the widest ranges in the UK. Its collections include Himalayan blue poppies (Meconopsis), autumn gentians, Sanguisorba and hostas, as well as more than 50 varieties of perennial geraniums. The autumn gentians were developed on the nursery itself by Dr Ian McNaughton. All plants are grown in peat-free compost.

Shop range and complementary products

The retail shop keeps a wide selection of home-grown plants, including shrubs, perennials, alpines, ferns and grasses. These are joined by seasonal bedding plants for instant colour, as well as roses, climbers and trees. The shop also offers compost and growing media, including the Sylvagrow range, and stocks a range of gardening essentials. Staff advise customers on choosing plants.

Trade sales and mail order

Macplants supplies many trade customers across the UK, including landscaping companies and garden designers. Trade customers are seen by appointment only, Monday to Friday. The online mail order service operates all year round, weather permitting, and orders are sent by courier. The stated aim is to deliver within five working days. The company states that it no longer sends to Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands or EU countries.

Gift voucher purchases and presence at shows

The shop allows gift vouchers to be purchased and has a section on upcoming shows and events it attends. The website also brings together information on payment methods, returns and help with placing orders online.

Location and contact

Berrybank Nursery, 5 Boggs Holdings, Pencaitland, East Lothian, EH34 5BA · Phone: 01875 592871 · Email: retail@macplants.com