The UK’s largest producer of cell-grown trees
Growing Roots in Scotland
Alba Trees was founded in 1988 in East Lothian with a simple but powerful idea: to grow strong, healthy trees that help restore the UK’s natural landscapes.
From small beginnings, we have grown to become one of the country’s leading tree nurseries, producing high-quality UK-grown trees that support sustainable forestry, biodiversity, and woodland creation across the UK.
Our founders were driven by a passion for the environment and a belief that innovation and sustainability could go hand in hand. That same vision continues to guide everything we do today.
1980s
Foundations of Innovation
Alba Trees was founded in East Lothian, Scotland, with a focus on growing healthy, resilient trees using pioneering cell-grown methods.
1990s
Leading the Way in Cell-Grown Technology
Became one of the first UK nurseries to fully implement cell-grown technology, setting a new standard for quality and biosecurity.
2001
A Strategic Partnership with Buccleuch Estates
Became part of Buccleuch Estates, providing the business with long-term investment, stability, and shared values around sustainable land management.
2006
Expanding Production Capacity
Purchased our second nursery site in East Lothian to expand production and meet growing demand for UK-grown trees.
2015
Scaling for National Impact
Purchased our third site, increasing capacity and enabling large-scale support for sustainable forestry and woodland creation projects across the UK.
2022
Joining a Global Sustainability Network
Joined Cibus Capital, becoming part of a global network of agri-food and sustainability-focused businesses committed to innovation and environmental impact.
A Legacy of Sustainability
Over the past three decades, we have worked with foresters, farmers, estates, and landscapers to grow more than 600 million trees. Every one of them contributes to carbon capture, biodiversity, and a more resilient landscape for the future.
Our commitment to sustainable forestry runs through every part of our business, from reducing peat use, recycling materials and responsible water management.
We are proud to be a Scottish company with a national reach, helping shape a greener and more sustainable UK.
Our People and Community
The story of Alba Trees is also the story of our people. Many members of our team have been with us for decades, bringing a wealth of knowledge and dedication to every tree we grow.
We employ more than 70 people on site at any given time, most from the local community, and we believe that people and technology working in harmony are what make our success possible.
Our shared purpose, growing trees that make a difference, connects everything we do, from the nursery floor to the forests and farms where our trees take root.
Looking to the Future
As demand for UK-grown trees continues to grow, we remain focused on innovation, quality, and care. We are constantly exploring new technologies and partnerships to help deliver large-scale woodland creation and reforestation projects that meet the challenges of a changing climate.
