Estabrook’s, a family-owned garden center in Maine that produces locally grown plants using sustainable practices, has completed construction of its new production greenhouse in Pownal. The 55,000-square-foot facility represents a major milestone for the company, significantly expanding its production capacity while showcasing cutting-edge horticultural technology and environmental responsibility.
Built for Growth and Sustainability
The new Pownal Production Greenhouse was designed with both efficiency and sustainability in mind. Featuring advanced climate control, automated irrigation, low-emission heating systems, and high-transmission glass construction, the structure supports precision cultivation that results in healthier, more resilient plants specifically adapted to thrive in Maine’s climate.
Sustainable highlights include an on-site 2-million-gallon pond for rainwater harvesting and reuse, reducing reliance on external water sources. An integrated radiant heating system powered by propane ensures year-round climate consistency with minimal energy consumption.
EHR Coordination and Industry Collaboration
Eason Horticultural Resources (EHR) played a central role in sourcing and coordinating the greenhouse structure, systems, and materials. By partnering with a network of leading horticultural vendors, EHR helped bring Estabrook’s ambitious vision to life. Participating vendor partners include:
- Acme Engineering & Manufacturing Corp.
- Argus Controls
- Attko Greenhouses Inc.
- BioTherm Solutions
- Control Dekk
- Dramm Corporation
- ErfGoed
- Metazet
- TC Control Group, Inc.
“This project reflects exactly what’s possible when independent growers, suppliers, and brokers collaborate with purpose,” says David Toohey, EHR Regional Sales Representative who worked directly with Estabrook’s throughout the project.
Serving Maine and Beyond
As customer demand for locally grown products continues to rise, Estabrook’s leadership remains focused on both short-term growth and long-term opportunities.
“During the pandemic, we had a captive audience; people learned that investments in landscaping and outdoor spaces not only add economic value to their home but support their well-being and mental health. This facility allows us to meet this growing demand by doubling our capacity while reducing the amount of time we need to grow market-ready plants. We believe the horticulture industry is ripe for expansion over the next few years, and we see an opportunity to export to the whole of New England with this facility,” says Tom Estabrook, President of Estabrook’s.
This expansion enhances Estabrook’s ability to serve both retail and wholesale customers with a broader selection of homegrown annuals, perennials, herbs, and vegetables. Plants from the new facility will be distributed to Estabrook’s Yarmouth and Kennebunk stores, as well as hundreds of landscape professionals, garden centers, and independent retailers across the region.
Estabrook’s investment underscores a long-term commitment to growing responsibly, supporting local businesses, and leading the future of horticulture in Maine. To commemorate the completion of this milestone, Estabrook’s will host a ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration on June 23, 2025. The event will bring together team members, partners, and industry collaborators to recognize the vision, planning, and partnership behind the project.
Originally published by Greenhouse Grower article here.