The Moose Crossing Garden Center, at 3033 Atlantic Highway (Route 1), Waldoboro opened its doors for the 43nd season Friday, April 15.

Founder Jerry Lupien began operations with a single greenhouse in 1973. The business now has 19 greenhouses and outdoor facilities for growing and displaying perennials, shrubs and chrysanthemums.

“We started with annuals and vegetables and now it's everything,” said Tyler Lupien, who with his brother Jeremy took over the business from their father five years ago.

Seedlings were begun Feb. 1 to get ready for the business’ opening.

“We grow most of what we sell,” Tyler Lupien said.

He said he knew people were anxious to get a start on their gardens but cold nights mean that planting outdoors for the next few weeks should be limited to pansies and other hardy annuals.

“It is still early to plant,” Lupien said. “We are opening for people to get the feel of spring.”

Once the open field of potted perennials is sold, the Lupiens will cover the area with 25,000 chrysanthemum pots.

Lupien said that last fall the chrysanthemums went quickly, with all 25,000 selling in six weeks. He said 90 percent of the sales were retail.

The center also sells gardening supplies, potting soil, fertilizer and tools.

“We have everything you need for your vegetables,” Lupien said.

The center is open daily from 9 am. to 5 p.m.