At just 17 years old, William Wade – a passionate botanist and market gardener – founded what would become Johnsons Lawn Seed. His love for plants, seed cultivation, and experimentation laid the groundwork for a company that would go on to shape lawns and landscapes for generations.

Around this time, Edwin Budding invented the world’s first cylinder lawn mower, adapted from machinery used in the textile mills where he worked as a foreman. This innovation transformed lawn care forever, paving the way for the manicured lawns that were to become a hallmark of British gardens.

The company Ransomes started manufacturing Budding’s mower design, bringing an end to the age of scythe-cut lawns. Early models cost seven guineas, while larger versions commanded an impressive ten guineas – a significant investment for the well-kept gardens of Victorian Britain.

The first horse-drawn lawn mower was introduced, enabling larger lawns and estates to be maintained more efficiently. This era marked the beginning of widespread lawn culture across country homes and parks.

Johnsons acquired its first premises on Bridge Street, Boston. For more than 60 years, William Wade oversaw operations there, later joined by his son Alfred, also a keen botanist. Together they advanced research and breeding programmes that built Johnsons’ reputation for seed quality and innovation.

Reports from America tell of the first dedicated lawn seed trials, reflecting a growing global interest in the science of turfgrass – a movement that Johnsons would soon lead in the UK.

The first steam-driven lawnmowers entered production, signalling another leap forward in garden technology and maintenance efficiency.

With William Wade’s grandson still a child, E. J. Deal took the helm, managing the newly incorporated Johnsons Ltd. The company continued to expand its seed trade both at home and abroad.

Tragically, Alfred Wade passed away due to ill health. His contribution to the development of seed research remained one of the company’s defining legacies.

Johnsons moved to new purpose-built headquarters on London Road, Boston. From this site, the company began exporting grass seed around the world, further cementing its place as a global name in seed excellence.

Alfred De Bouys Johnson, a graduate of the University of Reading, joined the business, continuing the family’s botanical heritage and bringing fresh scientific insight to its seed development.

Lawn turf research formally began at the Bingley Research Station, reflecting the growing importance of scientific advancement in grass breeding – something Johnsons would embrace wholeheartedly in the years ahead.

Despite global uncertainty during the First and Second World Wars, Johnsons’ dedicated export department ensured the company continued to trade internationally, maintaining supply chains and global relationships even in difficult times.

The first lightweight electric mowers appeared, followed soon after by the Flymo hover mower, revolutionising lawn care once again. Johnsons continued to adapt its seed varieties to complement these new technologies and the changing needs of home gardeners.

Johnsons Lawn Seed was acquired by Perryfields, marking a new era of investment and modernisation for the long-established brand.

Production relocated to Inkberrow, Worcestershire, establishing a new base for the manufacturing and distribution of Johnsons products across the UK.

Perryfields was acquired by the Danish co-operative DLF Seeds, the world’s largest producer of grass seed. This partnership gave Johnsons access to cutting-edge global research and breeding programmes, reinforcing its position as a market leader.

Johnsons launched Quick Lawn, the UK’s first seed mixture coated with beneficial bacteria to promote stronger, faster germination and healthier grass growth.

The brand introduced the UK’s first fertiliser combining Mycorrhizae and thatch-eating bacteria, enhancing soil health and improving root development naturally.

Johnsons Lawn Seed reached a significant production milestone – manufacturing over 3 million cartons in a single year, a testament to its popularity and enduring trust among gardeners nationwide.

A UK first: Johnsons became the first company to use advanced tetraploid amenity ryegrasses in consumer lawn seed mixtures, delivering enhanced resilience, colour, and year-round performance.

Johnsons introduced Tuffgrass with Dog Patch Resistance, the first UK seed mix designed to resist the effects of dog urine – solving one of the most common lawn care frustrations.

Johnsons Lawn Seed celebrated its bicentenary, marking 200 years of innovation, quality, and expertise in lawn care – a rare and remarkable achievement in the seed industry.

In 2024, Johnsons Lawn Seed reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability and biodiversity. The company focused on developing eco-friendly grass, clover, and wildflower seed mixtures designed to reduce reliance on chemical feeds, improve soil health, and support pollinators and local ecosystems. These new, nature-positive products reflect Johnsons’ vision for the future – greener lawns that give back to the environment.