$$ Yes, I had plants living right in fine gravel in my 800 gallon pond at
one time. They grew like crazy!

I might have to give that a go then, I am thinking maybe take one and
see how it does for a few weeks so in case it doesn't make it I can
always split the other one. I suspect whether it will grow in the
gravel depends on the type of plant too. Did you add any liquid
fertilizer to the water, or does the fish poop feed it enough?