Commerce Corp., a Linthicum Heights-based distributor of lawn and garden products, plans to announce today that it will be searching for a 300,000-square-foot distribution center in the Baltimore area.

Patricia B. Farrell, a spokeswoman for MacKenzie/O'Conor Piper & Flynn in Lutherville, said Commerce has not decided whether it will lease or buy an existing warehouse, or build one. A 300,000-square-foot project would be one of either the biggest leases or biggest construction jobs in the area for the year.

Robert J. Aumiller, MacKenzie/O'Conor's executive vice president, said the realty firm would represent Commerce in the leasing of its current 187,000-square-foot warehouse on Evelyn Avenue. Mr. Aumiller said Commerce employs up to 250 people and is one of the nation's largest distributors of lawn and garden products.