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FFP SADDLE RIVER, NJ

Historic Waterford Gardens in Saddle River, NJ

Honoring the Past, Building the Future: Fitz’s Fish Ponds Expands with 6th Retail Location to Historic Waterford Gardens in Saddle River, NJ

Earlier this November, Fitz’s Fish Ponds proudly expanded its operations by purchasing the iconic Waterford Gardens property in Saddle River, NJ from the Meeks family. This step represents more than just a business acquisition; it is a commitment to preserving and revitalizing a location steeped in history and unmatched significance in the water garden industry. Under the leadership of CEO Brian Fitzsimmons and Store Manager Tom Swinarsky, Fitz’s Fish Ponds is excited to honor the rich heritage of Waterford Gardens while infusing it with new energy and purpose.

A Legacy Built on Water Lilies and Innovation

Waterford Gardens, nestled in the heart of Saddle River was originally established as the first commercial water lily farm in the United States by William Tricker in 1895.  The property became a hub of innovation and excellence in aquatic gardening. Tricker’s groundbreaking contributions included hybridizing water lilies, introducing exotic varieties, and publishing some of the earliest water gardening catalogs, such as The Standard Guide to Water Gardening. His meticulous work made aquatic gardening accessible to enthusiasts across America, forever changing the landscape of the industry.

 

As the property transitioned to Waterford Gardens in the 90s, it remained a symbol for pond lovers, offering exceptional water lilies, koi, aquatic plants, and pond supplies. The charm and expertise cultivated by generations past have made Waterford Gardens a landmark for pond enthusiasts, hobbyists, and landscapers alike.

A Legacy Built on Water Lilies and Innovation
The Fitz’s Fish Ponds Vision

The Fitz’s Fish Ponds Vision
For Brian Fitzsimmons, this acquisition is deeply personal. "Waterford Gardens is not just a property; it’s a piece of living history," says Brian. "Our team is honored to breathe new life into a place that has meant so much to the aquatic gardening world. We are committed to restoring its beauty while preserving its legacy."

 

Fitz’s Fish Ponds has already begun an ambitious restoration project to revive the property’s Dutch-framed greenhouses and repair its disintegrating lily tanks. Additional plans include renovating the many ponds on the property from the natural ponds in the front yard, to the formal pond in the back as well as the tanks and ponds that were once known as “Kodama Koi Gardens.” These efforts will ensure that Fitz’s Fish Ponds, Saddle River continues to serve as a destination for high-quality aquatic plants, koi, and supplies for generations to come.

 

Exciting Updates

While renovations are underway, Waterford Gardens is still open to visitors. Customers can look forward to the same level of service and expertise they have come to expect, now enhanced by the Fitz’s Fish Ponds team.

 

Key updates include:

• Restoration of Historical Structures: The greenhouses are being revitalized, ensuring they remain a focal point of the property and the buildings are being painted and repaired.
• Expanded Services: The Saddle River location will now house a full-service maintenance and construction team, making it a hub for pond and water feature installations.
• Online Fulfillment: Customers can continue placing online orders with the same efficiency and care.


While the property undergoes its transformation, visitors are asked to pardon the construction. The work being done is a testament to Fitz’s Fish Ponds’ dedication to honoring the history and beauty of Waterford Gardens while creating a brighter future.

 

Preserving the Past, Building the Future

Preserving the Past, Building the Future
The acquisition of Waterford Gardens is a milestone for Fitz’s Fish Ponds and a new chapter for a property rich in history. The team is excited to blend the old with the new, carrying forward William Tricker’s pioneering spirit and the decades of dedication that followed.

 

As Fitz’s Fish Ponds restores and revitalizes this beloved property, they invite customers, pond enthusiasts, and the local community to join them in celebrating the legacy of Waterford Gardens.

Visit us at the Saddle River location to witness the transformation firsthand and be part of a story that continues to bloom.

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