By Elizabeth Lowe
Staff writer
Goodrich – English Meadows? owner Vinita Justice used to drive by the site of her current business and dream of its possibilities, hoping to buy it someday.
‘I always told my husband, ‘If this place goes up for sale, I have to buy it. There’s so many things it could be.??
The M-15 property was purchased this winter, and English Meadows opened for business in April, offering pond supplies, liners, chemicals, bacteria, koi, goldfish, water plants, hanging baskets, and pool supplies. Cast iron outdoor furniture and cement pots will soon be available.
Remodeling is taking place in the building, where dragonflies flit among water lilies and ferns. Outside sunny greenhouse windows, heart-shaped leaves cast dappled shadows on a silver-trunked tree and fountains splash in a pond near the rock-lined banks of the Kearsley Creek.
There are 24 ‘enormous? koi swimming in the pond, says Justice, who encourages even families without waterscapes to bring children to visit during business hours.
Justice is dreaming up more ideas for the peaceful location, including offering children’s programs, and opening it up as a meeting place for area groups.
The business was named to reflect its nature.
‘It’s just such a beautiful site,? she said. ‘It felt inviting, beautiful, and serene.?
The former location of VG Greenhouse and EZ Ponds, English Meadows is located at 8340 S. State Road in Goodrich. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Call (810) 636-2600.