The Root Forge banner
The Root Forge logo

The Root Forge

Premium tropical houseplants • plant-specific substrates • care guidance

UK-based micro-nursery • Etsy-first launch

Rare tropical plants, tailored substrates, and the guidance to grow them confidently.

The Root Forge specialises in tropical houseplants and collector favourites—supported by premium, small-batch substrate blends and clear, practical education. Our goal is simple: help you feel confident growing “difficult” plants at home, with the right information and the right growing media.

Shop on Etsy Contact

“Education-first care—so finicky plants feel doable, not intimidating.”

Tips, guides, and clear aftercare you can actually follow.

“Substrate mixes designed for specific plant groups—built to help roots thrive.”

From tropical foliage to premium aroids and bio-active options.

“Quality you can trust—supported by stringent procedures and careful handling.”

Clean stock, responsible packing, and clear communication.

About The Root Forge

The Root Forge is a UK-based micro-nursery specialising in tropical houseplants, rare aroids, premium substrate blends, propagation supplies, and curated care kits. We are Etsy-first while the brand grows, with a longer-term plan to expand into a dedicated ecommerce store as the catalogue scales.

  • Clear, confidence-building education: beginner-friendly care guidance and deeper tips for “difficult” species as we publish them.
  • Plant-specific growing media: small-batch blends designed around the needs of key plant groups (including premium bio-active options).
  • Careful standards: stringent procedures for handling, packing, and biosecurity—focused on healthy plants and satisfied customers.

Policies

The policies below explain shipping, privacy, and the terms that apply when you place an order.

Shipping Policy Last updated: Dec 2025
  1. Dispatch Times — Orders ship within 1–3 business days unless weather or operational delays occur.
  2. Shipping Methods — We use Royal Mail Tracked 24 services. Heavy items may use alternative couriers.
  3. Packaging Standards — Plants are packed to high standards with shipping protection, labels, and plant care cards.
  4. Weather Holds — We may delay dispatch for customer safety during frost or heatwaves.
  5. Delivery Issues — Missed deliveries or incorrect addresses are the customer’s responsibility.
  6. Lost Parcels — We will investigate with the carrier; replacements or refunds issued when confirmed lost.
  7. Customer Responsibilities — Unpack promptly; follow care guidance; avoid immediate repotting.
  8. Contact — Email: [email protected]
Privacy Policy Last updated: Dec 2025
  1. Information We Collect — Customer name, address, contact info, order details.
  2. How We Use Your Information — To fulfil orders, provide support, maintain compliance, and keep business records.
  3. Legal Basis (UK GDPR) — Contractual necessity, legitimate interest, legal obligation.
  4. Data Retention — Data kept for 3 years to meet plant passport and compliance logs.
  5. Sharing Your Information — Shared only with delivery carriers and payment processors.
  6. Your Rights — Right to access, correct, delete, restrict.
  7. Data Protection & Security — We use encrypted devices and secure systems.
  8. Contact — Email: [email protected] (Subject: “Privacy Request”)
Terms of Service Last updated: Dec 2025

These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your use of The Root Forge’s online shop, products, and services. By placing an order, you agree to these Terms.

  1. About Us — The Root Forge is a UK-based micro-nursery operated by Mathew Barlow. Email: [email protected]
  2. Products & Availability — We sell live plants, substrates, and accessories. Natural variation occurs.
  3. Ordering & Payment — Orders must be paid in full at checkout.
  4. Dispatch & Shipping — We follow stringent dispatch procedures. Dispatch typically occurs within 1–3 business days.
  5. Live Arrival Guarantee — Covers plants arriving damaged. Customers must contact within 48 hours.
  6. Cancellations & Returns — Live plants cannot be returned. Non-live items may be returned within 14 days.
  7. Care Responsibilities — Customers must unpack plants promptly and follow care guides.
  8. Biosecurity & Compliance — We follow strict quarantine protocols and quality assurance checks to ensure the biosecurity of our plants.
  9. Intellectual Property — All branding, images, and text belong to The Root Forge™.
  10. Limitation of Liability — We are not liable for delays, incorrect addresses, or misuse.
  11. Changes to Terms — We may update Terms at any time.
  12. Contact — Email: [email protected]

Contact