A horticultural nursery has grown and supplied more than 2.5 million trees during the last 12 months, placing it as one of the UK’s biggest net contributors to the nation’s tree population.

Johnsons of Whixley, a family-run plant nursery based in North Yorkshire, has published the figure, which includes smaller hedging plant trees, to coincide with the start of National Tree Week on 25 November.

Organised by the UK Tree Council, National Tree Week marks the start of the winter tree planting season and aims to encourage communities to do something positive for their local treescape.

Just 13% of the UK's total land area is covered in trees, compared with an average elsewhere in the EU of about 35%. In England, the figure is just 10%Estimates suggest that the firm has grown and supplied a total of 110 million trees and hedging plants since chairman John Richardson purchased the business in 1964.

And the trend shows no sign of slowing, as Johnsons continues to supply trees to high-profile projects up and down the country.

Johnsons is one of the largest commercial nursery businesses in Europe, and supplies plants and trees to the amenity sector, alongside thriving Garden Centre Sales and Cash and Carry divisions.

Johnsons of Whixley group managing director, Graham Richardson, said: “National Tree Week provides an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the many benefits trees bring, including improved air quality, flash flood prevention and shelter for wildlife, and acknowledges the importance of protecting and nurturing British woodland.”

“The benefits of strong woodland coverage in the UK are clear, not least of all because wood is an essential material in construction, and we are proud to play such a significant role in boosting the nation’s tree population.”