Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Rhododendron Propagation & Nursery Services in Portland, OR
Van Veen Nursery has been a leader in plant propagation since 1926, specializing in rhododendrons, camellias, and azaleas. Founded by Theodore Van Veen Sr., our nursery pioneered cutting-grown rhododendron techniques and became the oldest niche propagation nursery in the U.S. We serve hobby gardeners and wholesale growers with over 2,000 rare species and hybrids. Our expertise spans three generations, including groundbreaking work by Ted Van Veen, author of 'Rhododendrons in America,' and Kathy Van Veen, a recipient of the American Rhododendron Society's Gold Medal. We offer custom propagation services, rooted cuttings, and liner plants, maintaining strict quality standards for successful plant growth.Our historic Portland nursery features 80-year-old rhododendrons and 4 acres of greenhouses, open by appointment for plant purchases and educational tours. We adhere to rigorous propagation protocols, including specific cutting preparation and shipping guidelines to ensure plant viability. As a nonprofit entity since 2017, we continue the Van Veen family legacy through the Van Veen Heritage Garden conservation easement. Our operations emphasize careful planning for wholesale clients, with lead times for large-scale propagation projects and specialized shipping arrangements for oversized plants.
Services
Plant propagation
Rooted cuttings
Stock plant sales
Nursery tours
Wholesale services
Custom orders
Shipping solutions
Propagation guidance
Details
- Year established: 1926
Highlights and features
- We offer 98+ years of specialized rhododendron propagation expertise
- Our inventory includes over 2,000 rare rhododendron species and hybrids
- We provide custom propagation services for unique plant varieties
- Our team maintains historic plant collections dating to the 1930s
- We serve both individual gardeners and commercial nursery operations
Services
Plant Propagation
Custom propagation of rhododendrons, vireyas, and azaleas using advanced rooting techniques. We process customer-supplied cuttings with specialized temperature and humidity controls. Our 90-year-old methods ensure successful propagation for both rare and common varieties.
Rooted Cuttings
Pre-order rooted cuttings available annually. We offer over 2,000 rhododendron varieties with seasonal availability. Cuttings are professionally packaged and shipped with moisture-controlled guarantees. Wholesale pricing options available for commercial growers.
Nursery Tours
Guided tours of our 4-acre historic nursery with 80-year-old rhododendron collections. Visitors explore propagation greenhouses and heritage gardens. Appointment-only access ensures personalized educational experiences about plant care and nursery history.
Stock Plant Sales
Access to our complete mother plant list featuring rare hybrids and species. Plants available in various sizes with seasonal availability updates. We maintain strict quality control for all stock plants used in propagation services.
Wholesale Services
Custom propagation solutions for nursery professionals. We handle large-scale orders with coordinated shipping schedules. Our team provides specialized consultation for commercial growers seeking specific rhododendron varieties.
People
Theodore Van Veen Sr.
Founder
Established the nursery in 1926 and pioneered cutting-grown rhododendron techniques. Developed early propagation methods using electric heating cables and mist cooling systems. Charter member of the American Rhododendron Society.
Ted Van Veen
Proprietor
Authored 'Rhododendrons in America,' the first color guide for laypersons. Expanded nursery operations in 1968 and received the ARS Gold Medal in 1976. Advanced propagation techniques and industry education.
Kathy Van Veen
Manager
Managed nursery operations from 2003 until 2017. Recognized for exceptional propagation skills and awarded ARS Gold Medal in 2011. Maintained family traditions while developing Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.
Questions
What rhododendron varieties do you offer?
We maintain over 2,000 unique rhododendron varieties including rare species, hybrids, and heritage plants dating back to the 1930s.
Can you propagate non-rhododendron plants?
While specializing in rhododendrons, we can propagate other plant types. Contact us for specific inquiries about non-rhododendron propagation.
When should I send cuttings for propagation?
Cuttings should be sent September through November. We recommend using current year's growth and following our specific packaging instructions for best results.
Do you ship internationally?
Currently, we only accept propagation orders from US and Canada (P. ramorum-free areas). International shipping requires special inspection certificates.
How long does propagation take?
Rooting typically takes one growing season. Rhododendrons root over winter, deciduous azaleas over summer, while vireyas root year-round.
Can I visit the nursery?
Our Portland nursery is open by appointment January through June. Tours include greenhouse access and viewing our historic rhododendron collections.
