Family photo: Credit Alan Down
Frank P. Matthews Trees marked a major milestone with a special Open Day on 1st July, celebrating 125 years of horticultural expertise, innovation and family stewardship.
Founded in 1901, the Worcestershire-based nursery has grown from modest beginnings into one of the country's most respected producers of fruit and ornamental trees. Operating across 500 acres in Worcestershire and now in its fourth generation of family ownership, the business has built a reputation for quality, specialist knowledge and innovation, supplying gardeners, garden centres, growers and landscape professionals throughout the UK, including the Royal estate.
The anniversary Open Day welcomed invited guests from across the horticultural industry, including customers, suppliers, media representatives and trade partners. Visitors enjoyed tractor tours around the nursery, gaining a behind-the-scenes insight into tree production, propagation and the specialist expertise that has shaped the business for more than 125 years.
The day also featured live grafting demonstrations, informal talks with members of the nursery team and discussions on the future of tree growing and plant breeding. Visitors had the opportunity to learn more about the nursery's commitment to sustainability, innovation and the preservation of heritage fruit varieties, while enjoying anniversary refreshments, including ice cream and cake, in a relaxed and celebratory atmosphere.
The Open Day forms part of a landmark anniversary year for Frank P. Matthews Trees. Earlier this year, the nursery was awarded a prestigious Gold Medal at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show for its award-winning display of Malus trees, recognising the horticultural expertise that have become synonymous with the business.
Over its 125-year history, Frank P. Matthews Trees has played a significant role in shaping Britain's orchards, gardens and landscapes. Producing over one million trees annually and working closely with some of the most respected breeders of woody plants, the nursery is recognised for introducing innovative new cultivars while also safeguarding heritage varieties that contribute valuable genetic diversity to UK horticulture.
Speaking about the anniversary celebrations, the Frank P. Matthews Director Steph Dunn James said: "Celebrating 125 years is a proud achievement for everyone connected with the nursery. The Open Day was a wonderful opportunity to thank our customers, partners, suppliers and friends of the business for their continued support.
It was fantastic to welcome so many visitors from across the industry and to share what makes our nursery special. As we reflect on our history, we are equally excited about the future, with new varieties, continued innovation and a commitment to helping gardeners, growers and landscape professionals grow better trees."
As the company looks towards its next chapter, Frank P. Matthews Trees remains firmly rooted in the values that have guided the business since 1901: family, expertise, innovation and a passion for growing. The 125th Anniversary Open Day not only celebrated an extraordinary legacy but also highlighted the nursery's ongoing role in shaping the future of British horticulture.
