Wasco Nursery was founded in 1925 by Lynn Jay. The original farm was located on La Fox Rd., just south of Wasco, and consisted of about twenty acres. Although he was originally a farmer, Lynn started in the nursery business by growing "hardy trees with local roots" to sell to fellow farmers. Current owner Matt Zerby began working at Wasco Nursery in 1992 at the age of 14. Initially hired to load cars and help around the garden center, Matt grew quickly in his knowledge of plants, passing the Illinois Certified Nurseryman’s exam at the age of 17 (still the youngest ever to pass the exam). Matt climbed through the ranks and took on a management role in the late 90’s eventually purchasing half of the business in 2005 and purchased the Jay Family's remaining interest in the business in 2012. Today Wasco Nursery consists of 2 farms totaling nearly 140 acres, an 10-acre retail garden center (the area’s largest), Landscape Design and Installation Services, more than 11,000 sq. feet of greenhouse space, a water gardening department, as well as a garden gift shop that is open year round. Wasco Nursery's mission is to provide high quality, locally grown plant & landscape material and expert advice along with professional design & installation services. It is their goal to encourage the planting of trees, shrubs and other plants that inspire, delight and bring value to everyone and foster a more beautiful and sustainable environment for generations to come.
