Heritage
From its humble beginnings in 1951, Darby Nursery Stock has always been a family business.
1951
Our origins trace back to 1951, when brothers Francis and Hugh Darby began growing soft fruit, vegetables & salad crops in the small village of Methwold, Norfolk.
1962
The Darbys diversify into ornamental horticulture.
1963
Darby Nursery Stock Ltd is born.
1970
Darby becomes one of the founding five members of the marketing co-operative the ‘Anglia Group of Nurseries’.
1986
2nd generation Darby, Anthony Darby joins the business.
1986
Awarded the prestigious Royal Warrant by appointment to HM The Queen for supplying ornamental shrubs and trees, becoming part of the Sandringham Association of Royal Warrant Holders.
1989
Founder Francis Darby semi-retires.
1989
Launched Ballerina Trees to the trade.
1994
Founder Hugh Darby semi-retires.
1995
Launched the ‘Temptations’ brand.
2005
Expanded our range to include Herbaceous plants.
2011
3rd generation of Darby, Hannah and Georgie Darby join the business.
2021
4th generation of Darby is born. Christening gifts included a pair of Felco Model 7s and the RHS Plant Finder, to start them early!