Frank P Matthews, a major UK tree nursery based in Tenbury Wells, Worcestershire, is altering its growing practices in response to hotter and drier summers. The business, which supplies garden centres nationwide with over a million trees annually, has introduced new drought-tolerant species.
Among the varieties now being cultivated are cercis, lagerstroemia, and koelreuteria, which are better suited to warmer conditions. Managing director Stephanie James stated that some less successful species have been phased out.
The nursery has also implemented measures to reduce water consumption. It captures rainwater in lagoons for use during dry periods and has started using a compost additive that reportedly reduces water consumption by approximately 30%. Drip irrigation systems are used for container-grown trees to deliver water efficiently.
James emphasised the importance of diversity in the UK's evolving treescape, citing the decline of ash trees. She encourages planting a wide range of new and diverse species, advising gardeners to use bark mulch to reduce water loss and protect root systems.