A Little History…

Since 1967, Fair View Nursery evolved from a 3-acre retail garden center to one of the largest azalea growers on the East Coast. Under the ownership and astute management of the late Harold Lee and partner, the late Randolph Whitehead, this venture was accomplished within a few short years. With hard work, loyal employees, and a growing demand for our azaleas by wholesale growers, landscapers and the retail trade, the nursery thrived.

The azaleas grown at Fair View Nursery found homes in many places throughout the years. A few of our proudest, well-known sites include the Governor’s Mansion, WRAL Gardens, UNC, the White House, the World War II Memorial, Andy Griffith’s home in Manteo, the Azalea Gardens in Wilmington, and the Augusta National Golf Club.

The nursery sustained devastating damage and losses from flooding during Hurricane Floyd in 1999. In 2000, Harold’s daughter, Carolyn Aldridge, and her son, William Westbrook, with the support of the Lee family, made the decision to redevelop the nursery on a smaller scale with a more diverse product mix.

In 2013, Fair View Nursery became a licensed grower for First Editions® followed by Southern Living® and Encore Azalea® in 2014. We are proud to be part of the elite group of network growers for these collections. Other brands we are currently growing include Proven Winners®, Endless Summer®, Knock Out® and Drift Roses®, and Easy Elegance Roses®.

In 2017, Fair View Nursery moved into third-generation ownership by William Westbrook, grandson of the founder, Harold Lee. Fair View’s motto, “A Tradition of Quality Since 1967”, plays an integral part in the legacy that William strives to uphold, from every rooted cutting to every finished plant that leaves the nursery.

Today, we grow a diverse product mix of quality plants while staying true to our roots, growing traditional azaleas on a smaller scale. Each year, we adjust our plant list to incorporate some of the new introductions that meet evolving industry trends and consumer demands.

To our customers, we would like to say, thank you. Your friendship and loyalty have enabled us to continue moving forward. We are always grateful and proud to play a role in your marketing success. To our future customers, our sales staff is always eager to help you with questions about our products and services.