Bill and Noelene Allan created Allan's Nursery on August 4, 1964.

Mr Allan was working at the now defunct Clarke's Nursery at the time when another nursery in the area came up for sale, which he and Ms Allan purchased

Over the half a century that followed, the business branched across several locations, becoming Tasmania's largest seedling grower.

READ MORE: Peter Hudson to be formally acknowledged at Hawthorn's UTAS game

At the height of their success, they owned centres in Prospect, Youngtown and Rocherlea and employed more than 60 staff.

In the early days, the couple would put in long days together working while raising their kids who essentially grew up within the business, just as their grandkids did later on.

Today, Allan's handles an enormous range of plants, trees, annuals, perennials, pots, and gardening products, which are transported all around the state.

Despite business still running smoothly, Mr Allan decided it was time to sell.

READ MORE: Private rooms at Safe Space 'more popular' than dormitory-style rooms as homeless walk away

"There is a very rewarding feeling you get from growing a plant, watching its seed germinate, observing its root development, and knowing it will eventually be the pride and joy of some keen gardener," he said.

"But I recently lost my son and wife and felt maybe it was just the right time to retire and go fishing."

Mr Allan said the business was being sold under the condition that his 13 loyal employees retained their positions at Allan's.

READ MORE: Investigation ongoing after shots fired at house in state's South

"I've got a good group of staff and, personally, I just don't think the place could run without them," he said.

Mr Allan said his favourite memory during his tenure with the nursery was from 1986, when he sold three-and-a-half acres worth of vegetables and flowers.

"They were all maturing at the same time, and in collaboration with the local Rotary Club, we raised $42,000 for charity over the course of one long weekend in March," he said.

READ MORE: Residents raise concerns over wildlife with second Launceston Golf Club development

Another memory that stuck out was the honor of winning the nurseryman of Australia award in 1987.

"That was an honour to be recognised by my industry peers," he said.

Mr Allan said he didn't plan on completely giving up growing, instead, he would opt to use an empty block next door to him to continue breeding certain flowers, while also growing "a few things" for charity.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: