SeedGeeks Heirloom Seeds

I placed an order for seeds at the beginning of February. The order was almost immediately marked as shipped with tracking information provided. After two weeks without the tracking information updating, I reached out with a message inquiring if this was a lost package situation or if the retailer simply still had the item. After no response for 5 days, I messaged again. This time I received a response explaining that they print shipping immediately to pack orders and guarantee stock. I was assured my order would still arrive by the listed date. That date came and still no movement or package. I reached out again and this time was told that the post office lost the order and they would have another package in the mail that day, all while explaining that this was their busiest time. After 3 more days of no movement, I sent a final message requesting a refund. Within hours my original tracking information suddenly updated and is en route. No response has been given to my last message. I believe they have their own storefront but this purchase was made through Etsy. I'm always hesitant to pursue that route but have had great luck with Southern Seed Exchange which also maintains a storefront this way and this shop boasted similar reviews and a star seller badge. I have not received the items and cannot speak to their quality. There are many reviews mentioning good germination rates and success with them. However, at this point, even if I had a 100% germination rate from all of the seeds I ordered I would not purchase from this shop again. I was very understanding and flexible about delays. It happens everywhere and I know there has to be a large influx of orders coming in right now. But after sorting the Etsy reviews by most recent, there seems to be a pattern that has emerged. Interspersed amongst the glowing reviews were many that complained of the exact same issues I had experienced. I can accept delays, stock issues, etc. but as a consumer it felt like the shop was being dishonest about the whole process. If they had said, yes we're behind, we have the package and will send it out as soon as we can I would have just waited. But it was excuse after excuse that didn't even address the things I was saying and asking in my messages re: package claims and stock of certain items that had received several reviews in the last couple of weeks which mirrored my experience. I appreciate transparency above all as a consumer and as such can't in good conscience recommend or purchase from this shop again.