Bradford Greenhouses is celebrating 50 years of growth … not just in the soil, but in the hearts of gardeners, homeowners, and families across Ontario.
What began as a modest family operation has blossomed into one of the province’s most iconic garden centres, with locations in both Bradford and Barrie.
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A family legacy in full bloom
The story of Bradford Greenhouses began long before it became the retail destination we know today.
In 1956, Francis Ferragine immigrated to Canada with his wife Chiara and their children, eventually settling in Bradford. With a vision and a strong work ethic, Francis purchased farmland 5 years later and launched a small growing business, originally named Francis Ferragine & Sons.
By 1975, the business had taken root as a retail garden centre, offering plants and garden essentials to the local community. It didn’t take long for the reputation to grow alongside the business. In 1993, the company expanded again with a large-format store in Barrie, establishing a second home for the brand and reaching even more gardening enthusiasts across Central Ontario.
From greenhouse to green leader
Today, Bradford Greenhouses is one of the largest growers and wholesalers in Canada, operating more than 40 acres of greenhouse space. They’ve become a go-to source not just for plants, but for everything from home décor and seasonal displays to gardening tools and expert advice.
But it’s not just the size of the operation that makes Bradford Greenhouses stand out … it’s the philosophy behind it.
The company has long been committed to environmental responsibility, implementing advanced greenhouse technologies to conserve energy and water. Their use of natural gas, shade curtains, and integrated pest management reflects a long-term investment in sustainability.
At the same time, they’ve remained focused on the human side of business.
Bradford Greenhouses employs over 350 people, many of whom have been part of the journey for years, if not decades. That sense of family and loyalty runs deep, extending well beyond the walls of the business.
Growing community, not just gardens
Throughout its 50-year history, Bradford Greenhouses has consistently looked for ways to give back. One of their proudest initiatives is the Roots for Youth foundation, launched in 2019.
Roots for Youth provides bursaries and support for families facing financial or personal hardship, reflecting the company’s belief that strong communities grow just like healthy gardens – through care, support, and good roots.
That community focus has helped cement the garden centre’s status as more than just a retail space. For many families, Bradford Greenhouses is part of seasonal traditions, from picking out mums in the fall to shopping for Christmas décor or planning summer garden makeovers. The store is a backdrop to family memories.
A milestone worth celebrating
To mark this major anniversary, the team is inviting customers to join in the celebration. The highlight is a free customer appreciation BBQ on August 12 at both locations, a heartfelt thank-you to the people who have helped make the journey possible.
But more than that, this 50th anniversary is a chance to pause and reflect on what Bradford Greenhouses has built: not just a successful business, but a true community institution.
With deep roots and a strong foundation, there’s no doubt the next 50 years will be just as vibrant.
