Rhodes Greenhouses History & Legacy


Where Family Grows Together.

  • Rhodes Greenhouses was founded in Henderson, NY by Leland and Gerene Rhodes, who had previously operated Triangle Gardens in Adams, NY. In 1982, their son Gary returned home from serving in the U.S. Army to help when his father fell ill. That same year, Gary purchased the family business and began shaping it into the flourishing operation it is today.

    Shortly after, Gary met Jolene Knechtel, who had answered a newspaper ad for greenhouse help. Their partnership quickly grew beyond the workplace, and together they built and expanded Rhodes Greenhouses into a beloved local landmark. Family involvement has always been at the heart of the business—Jolene’s sister Janelle, her mother Adeline, and Gary’s sister Pat all played vital roles in its success, alongside many dedicated employees over the years.

    The family’s perseverance has been tested but never broken. When Gary was deployed overseas during the First Gulf War in 1991, Jolene kept the greenhouse thriving, even weathering the challenges of a devastating ice storm. Their resilience and dedication have become part of the greenhouse’s legacy.

    In 2006, the Rhodes family began a special project to honor veterans. The Alexander Corners Veterans and Pearl Harbor Memorial was established, with members of the Local Pearl Harbor Survivors Association honored during ceremonies led by Jon Rhodes as part of his Eagle Scout project. Today, the memorial remains a meaningful place of remembrance and reflection for visitors.

    The Rhodes family also created a unique stone garden in memory of Rebecca Rhodes, who had a passion for collecting rocks. Rebecca earned her Master’s degree from the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) in 2018, and the garden stands as a tribute to her love of nature, featuring an assortment of rocks and colorful flowers that bloom beautifully in the summer.

    Adding to the sense of history, the Rhodes family home—constructed with limestone by the Bates family—is listed on both the State and National Register of Historic Places. This deep connection to heritage and tradition enriches the story of the greenhouse.

    Today, Rhodes Greenhouses is more than just a place to shop for plants—it’s a community destination. Visitors can find a wide selection of flowers, plants, and gardening essentials, from vibrant annuals and perennials to fertilizers, tools, and pest-control solutions. The greenhouses also carry a variety of seed packets, including favorites from Burpee, making it a one-stop shop for gardeners of all kinds.

    The next generation is also stepping in to carry the family legacy forward. Gary and Jolene’s son, Jonathan, and daughter, Amanda, remain actively involved in the business, returning during the busiest months to help modernize the facility and learn the business from the ground up. Their energy, ideas, and dedication ensure that Rhodes Greenhouses continues to grow while staying true to its roots.

    Many customers come not only to purchase plants but also to enjoy the experience of strolling through the lush greenhouses, exploring the Veterans Memorial Gardens—which feature a Cobra helicopter, battle tank, and artillery shells from the USS New Jersey—and appreciating the family’s dedication to honoring history and community.

    Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful and beautiful place to spend the day, Rhodes Greenhouses offers something meaningful for everyone.