Comments regarding Park Seed Company (aka Park's Gardens)

Well, where do I begin. This order was a nightmare from the getgo! On Jan. 15 of last year I placed an order for $201.07. The order included 2 BioDomes, 2 planting blocks, 2 refill sponges, many, many seeds, cannas, daylily, and other misc. items. Shipping was $31.07. WOW! The trouble began when I received my first box. It contained my seeds and misc. items including one of the BioDome refills. But there were no BioDomes, blocks, 2nd refill, heat mats, etc. (the very expensive items). I didn't think much about it because I assumed a second box was on its way. I waited and waited and couldn't understand why the BioDomes and other items hadn't arrived yet. I then pulled out the packing slip and carefully examined it (yes I know I should have done that 1st thing) and realized that according to the packing slip absolutely all ten of those items were supposedly shipped in that tiny little box. I e-mailed and called Parks and went through great frustration at trying to explain and basically being questioned like a criminal. It was only after I told them I would e-mail them a photo of the small box and giving them dimensions that they decided that perhaps the items really didn't get shipped because there was no way they would have fit! That was corrected but the problems continued. I received some cannas way, way, way too early for my zone. I called them and they recommended that I place them in a dark, cool area of my home (as if everyone has a cellar). Those eventually got replaced also as they ended up molding in my heated basement. Some of the seeds failed to germinate properly (if at all) and those also were replaced. The backordered items eventually made it to my doorstep at some point. To make a long story short, after the confusingly large amount of e-mails and the countless number of shipments to fill the original order, replace, etc., I'm still not sure where I ended up as far as having the order completed. It is no wonder they charge so much for shipping - they have to in order to cover the number of shipments due to backorders and shipping errors.

One more thing, the BioDomes, planting blocks, and refill sponge were a complete waste of money. My $4 basic planting tray with a clear plastic cover did better. I wasted $77.10 on the BioDome materials, not to mention the shipping charges associated with them.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

We appreciate being beginners ,that Park Seeds gave a little info book how to germinate and plant our seeds, and the useful info on the packets. We also liked the catalogue, today is a tuff business environment online and people demand so much. We are very satisfied with our order we recieved within one week, and will recommend Park Seed Co. to all who ask us, Thank you for the great service. We live in another state that Park Seed Co is located and are retired . Keep up the good work and handling Organic products.

I HAVE NEVER SEEN A HIGHER NEGATIVE RATING OF A BIG COMPANY--AFTER MANY YEARS OF DOING BUSINESS WITH THEM, WITH "SO-SO" RESULTS I WILL GO ELSEWHERE

I placed an order for $190 in seeds. (seeds only)

They wanted to charge me $36 in shipping and then
after sending me a coupon with a code, they said it was
expired, when the coupon I had in my hand had a clear
date on it that was not expired.

Never again.

"

I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

I am concerned that I have not yet resolved the issue at hand and would like an opportunity to do so; however, I have not yet received a reply from you concerning this matter. Please contact us at your earliest convenience. Customer satisfaction is very important to us.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I first ordered fall bulbs from Park Seeds last summer. I knew they wouldn't ship until mid-September. A number of the bulbs I ordered needed to be refrigerated for 2-3 months before being planted (Northern California), so it was pretty important that I receive the order no later than early October.

Come the ship date, the bulbs didn't ship. I sent several e-mails and made a phone call to the company (which were all answered quickly), and was repeatedly told that the bulbs were delayed. The company did agree to ship me those bulbs that they had in stock in a separate order (of course they charged me an extra shipping fee). Those bulbs (fall-blooming crocuses) all sprouted, but only 2 flowered.

By late October, the bulbs still weren't in stock. I cancelled my order and purchased my bulbs from a local nursery. It took about 2 weeks for my refund to be processed, despite repeated calls to the company and assurances that they refund would be processed within 24 hours.

I tried Park Seed again in January for all my spring bulbs. On the web site, all the bulbs I ordered were listed as "in stock." However, after 3 weeks and a few e-mails, I was told again that there was a hold-up in their nursery and the bulbs were not in stock. They had no idea when the bulbs would ship

I ended up cancelling my order and purchased my bulbs from another web site. (Again, I was assured this refund would be processed within 24 hours and it hasn't showed up on my online statement yet).

The customer service is pleasant enough, and my e-mails are always answered promtply, although all the e-mails I received offered generic answers to why the bulbs were delayed, and they could never provide me with even a ballpark ship date.

I won't use Park Seed anymore.

"

I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

I am concerned that I have not yet resolved the issue at hand and would like an opportunity to do so; however, I have not yet received a reply from you concerning this matter. Please contact us at your earliest convenience. Customer satisfaction is very important to us.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I ordered a dozen different seeds which arrived within a week and were of good quality. The purple millet seeds germinated in 3 days! I would not hesitate to purchase seeds from them again next year and possibly more this year because they arrived so quickly.

I recently placed my first order with Park Seed, and everything except for 2 items arrived packed well and in a timely fashion. The other items were not available and I have received one, but not yet the other. I would recomend the company. I feel the seeds are a decent price. I got their bio-dome seed starter, and I have not had the mold problem I had with other seed starter kits and peat pots.

I purchased two bulbs of the Batflower from Park Seed in Greenwood. One did not grow at all, the other in pot next to it put up two leaves. I have called and then written a letter including the package label for the bulbs according to the instructions I received from the telephone customer service rep. No answer. Two months later I wrote again, and to this day, I have not received any acknowledgment of my request for a replacement bulb or refund. What should I do next? When I call, I get passed on to other departments, or simply disconnected while on hold.
Is this the normal Park Seed way of dealing with their products???

"

I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

If this was an item purchased in the Garden Center in Greenwood, SC please give them a call at (864) 941-4213 to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

I am concerned that I have not yet resolved the issue at hand and would like an opportunity to do so; however, I have not yet received a reply from you concerning this matter. Please contact us at your earliest convenience. Customer satisfaction is very important to us.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I have been a customer of Park seed for years, with mixed results. Last fall they sent out a newsletter with a daylily I wanted on sale for buy-one-get-one-free. I ordered it that very day, and a few other items. Five days later I got an email with my order status, and the daylilies, which were by far the most expensive things on my order, were marked as unavailable. (Why would they put something on sale if they were already out of it???) They refunded the cost of the daylilies, but still charged the full shipping for the order. I emailed them about it, and they replied that $3 would be credited towards my next purchase. (but I know that the portion of the s/h that I was charged for the two plants was more than $3. I was charged almost $12 s/h, and the only other things on the order were two seed packages and two bulbs). So a month later I decided to use the $3 towards a new order. They charged me the full order, but when they shipped them, they had left out a set of three rosebushes. When I emailed them, I was told that they "had not yet been released" and would be sent soon. A month later I emailed them again, and this time was told that they were unavailable, but could be sent in the spring. I wonder at what point were they going to let me know that? (and again, why put something on clearance sale that you don't even physically have???) When I emailed them to ask for an estimate on when they would have the roses (which I had already paid for!) I was told rather curtly that spring shipping begins sometime in March. Did not answer my question. They gave me the option of getting a refund instead of the roses, but I really wanted them so I decided to wait. Still waiting, but rather annoyed.

On the other hand, I have been very satisfied with the quality of most of the plants that actually did arrive. They were healthy, good sized plants that had been carefully packaged. Because of that, I will keep ordering from them.

Recently placed 2 orders for seed and Bio-Domes. Everything was expertly packed and arrived timely and in great condition. Customer Service was great also....

"

We appreciate you taking the time to let us know how pleased your are with your experience at Park Seed. Thank you! Your opinion is valued and we, of course, welcome feedback. It's customers like you who act as a reminder of why we do what we do and the importance of supplying only top quality products and offering the best service possible. Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts!

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I recently ordered about 10 packs of seeds from Park's and am completely satisfied with my order. Nothing was missing and the shipping was timely! We will see how germination goes.

"

We appreciate you taking the time to let us know how pleased your are with your seed order and I hope they perform well for you. Thank you! Your opinion is valued and we, of course, welcome feedback. It's customers like you who act as a reminder of why we do what we do and the importance of supplying only top quality products and offering the best service possible. Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts!

Happy Gardening!
Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

Re: Order #4990011

I recently placed orders with three different seed/supply mail order companies (one of which is in the top 30 on this site) for the upcoming seed starting season. Park is the only one that regularly communicated with e-mails. Not to mention they are the first order I received. Everything is as it should be, there are only two backordered items out of 30, and I am more than satisfied at this point with my dealings with this mail-order company. I will add more feedback as I see how my planting season goes but so far, so good.

"

We appreciate you taking the time to let us know how pleased your are with your seed order and I hope they perform well for you. Thank you! Your opinion is valued and we, of course, welcome feedback. It's customers like you who act as a reminder of why we do what we do and the importance of supplying only top quality products and offering the best service possible. Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts!

Happy Gardening!
Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

"

My first orders from Park Seed in the spring were of mixed results. First I ordered plants that were received dried out, broken and of poor quality. These were ordered as gifts and I had little time to replace them locally. They did offer credit on a fall shipment order. I never received the last of that replacement order. Now it is bit late for fall planting. The large group of seeds that I ordered were disappointing. Only about half of the packages sprouted. They either were fine or no sprouts at all. My overall experience tells me to stay away from them. Also, their shipping charges for seeds seems excessive.

"

I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I've been ordering from this company for several years, and will continue to do so. Many of the complaints that I'm reading here seem to be petty. People complaining that their seeds were sold out? It's a big company with a lot of customers -- it happens. People complaining that their orders were shipped in separate containers at different times? I'm glad the company goes ahead and sends me what is ready to ship now, and then sends the rest of it as soon as it becomes available, rather than holding it to ship all at one time. I can understand the complaints about receiving dead plants, but the company is very willing and quick to send replacements or offer refunds. I've been very pleased with the quality of seeds I have received from Park's over the years, and continue to be impressed by their attempt to provide excellent customer service. Mail-order isn't the easiest business, and it's hard to please everyone all the time, but I think Park's is a quality company. I look forward to ordering from them many more times in the future, and I will continue to recommend them to friends.

"

We appreciate you taking the time to let us know how pleased your are with your past orders and our customer service. Thank you! Your opinion is valued and we, of course, welcome feedback. It's customers like you who act as a reminder of why we do what we do and the importance of supplying only top quality products and offering the best service possible. Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts!

Happy Gardening!
Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]


"

I just placed an order for seeds and bare roots plants. Order number 4972685. I'm hoping everything arrives in good health and in time. I want to use the seeds to do some Winter Sowing this December. The seeds on the website say "ship now", so I'm hoping the seeds arrive in the next week or so. I found a few of the bare root plants $3 dollars cheaper at Bluestone Perennials, so I hope I'm not disappointed. I'll keep you posted on how satisfied I am with my first order from Park Seed.

Your Order Status
Order # 4972685 Processed
CAMPANULA PEARL DEEP BLUE (BELLFLOWER)
LIATRIS FLORISTAN WHITE (BLAZING STAR)
STOKES BLUE ASTER (STOKESIA LAEVIS)
COLUMBINE CLEMENTINE BLUE (AQUILEGIA)
CONEFLOWER (ECHINACEA) PARADOXA YELLOW
COREOPSIS SUNFIRE
PENSTEMON STRICTUS (ROCKY MTN PENSTEMON)
AQUILEGIA RED STAR
AQUILEGIA ORIGAMI MIX (COLUMBINE)
RUDBECKIA GREEN WIZARD
EVENING PRIMROSE INNOCENCE (OENOTHERA)
BLUE HIMALAYAN POPPY (MECONOPSIS)
VACCINIUM BLUEBERRY SUNSHINE BLUE
GERANIUM JOHNSON'S BLUE
POLEMONIUM HEAVEN SCENT PPAF
LAVANDULA MUNSTEAD
VERONICA LILAC FANTASY
CUCUMBER PEARL HYBRID

I bot some seeds from Parks in Sept. 2007, about 7 packs

It turned out, after I got the seed order, that They were sold out of 2 Veg. types., and I did not get those in the order.

Two more of the Veg seeds packs, I did get; turned out to be "dead". .... would not germinate. No doubt because they were old seeds.

Also, the postage charged to my order for a few packs of seeds were excessive.

I can not recommend Park Seed Co. to anyone.

"

I have located your order and I am in the process of reviewing your information. I would like you to know that I will be contacting you via e-mail shortly. We will make every effort to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

Despite the inconsistent ratings, I took a chance and ordered some Hellebore Double Queen plants. Each plant was packaged carefully. I was pleasantly surprised to see intricate root systems and multiple, developed eyes on such small plants. I received numerous emails regarding the status of my order without any problems. It was a simple transaction. No complaints on my end. I will order again from them.

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I am happy to hear that you enjoyed the Hellebore Double Queen so much and hope that they continue to do well in your garden .

We would love to forward your compliments; if you would send us your order information, we can let the appropriate department know that their efforts were recognized and appreciated. Please email me your zip code, last name, and order number.

Happy Gardening!
Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Department
e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com

Dear SNB_LArrowhead,

We appreciate you taking the time to let us know how pleased your are with your order/product. Thank you! Your opinion is valued and we, of course, welcome feedback. It's customers like you who act as a reminder of why we do what we do and the importance of supplying only top quality products and offering the best service possible. Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts!

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]"

I have bought lots of plants, seeds and a book and more of their items, I 'm always so happy with all the plants and seeds, the last 3 plants were very small and died, I called them and they had send me by next day (free) 3 other bigger plants and they are doing well so far. Thanks Parker seeds, you are one of my favorites and I always buy from you. Thanks again.

"

I am happy to hear that you enjoyed our products and customer service so much. Loyal customers like you make our job so much more enjoyable!

We would love to forward your compliments; if you would send us your order information, we can let the appropriate department know that their efforts were recognized and appreciated. Please email me your zip code, last name, and order number.

Happy Gardening!
Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Department
e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com
"

I'm surprised at all the negative comments about Parks as I've never had a problem ordering or receiving tomato seeds. Their auto-email responses to customer complaints are comical, I must admit ... rather robotic.
I like a more human touch.

I'm glad someone got on their case about declaring seed count in the tomato packets. That was my only beef with their online catalog. I just browsed it Friday and found some discount seed to stash for next spring. Popped in an order and got an immediate response enumerating my requests and giving the total along with a tracking number and a projected date of delivery.

Anyone wanting a really good hybrid red slicer should check out Glory and nab a packet while they're on sale. I'm not promoting Parks with that comment ... you can get Glory at TGS and a few other tomato seed specialty vendors. But all in all I've found Parks online ordering, delivery, and customer service (as well as their hardcopy direct ordering by post) to be about the same as TGS, Victory, Stokes and Totally Tomatoes. Burpee is the one that was a bit tardy and rather lackadasical about responding to emails.

pr

"

I am happy to hear that our tomato seeds have done so well in your garden and I hope they continue to do so. We strive to make online ordering as easy and convenient as possible and count on your feedback to make that happen.

We would love to forward your compliments; if you would send us your order information, we can let the appropriate department know that their efforts were recognized and appreciated. Please email me your zip code, last name, and order number.

Happy Gardening!
Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Department
e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com
"

I've been ordering from Park Seed for years and have generally been satisfied. I wanted to take advantage of their fall 35% off sale because I sprout a lot of seeds indoors. I ordered a little over 45 packets of seeds and was was charged a whopping $18 for standard shipping for something that will ship for less than a pound. That's ridiculous.
I shop online frequently and have never encountered shipping prices that high, even when I've ordered bulky or heavy items like power tools. It's bad enough that some seed packets can cost as much as 4 or 5 dollars for only 10 seeds. But to add another 20+ cents per packet for shipping is mind-boggling to me. I like their seeds, but Park is getting too expensive for me.

"

I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I wanted to take advange of the 35% off seed sale that Park's is having but I'm pretty cheap. I think 11.95 shipping is a bit excessive a charge for a few seed packets. Most everything I have ordered in the past however is been good.

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I would like to further research your above posting. To do this I must request that you please e-mail me with your full name and address. If applicable please provide an order reference number. Thank you.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Department
e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com
"

Very close to negitve. I placed an order (#4873216) on
7-27-2007 for 2 varieties of Helleborus. I received one
variety mid Oct. However, I still have not received (43383).
I have been checking the status of this order since 9-06-07
and the status is always "to be shipped". When?
This plant needs to be planted NOW! I have placed many
orders with Park Seed and Wayside Gardens over the
past few years. The quality of the plants are steadily declining.
This is very disappointing. I used to get great perennials and bulbs from both companies.
The only product that I possibly would order in the future is a rose,
because they have been of good quality and have been beautiul.
After seeing so many poor reviews recently, I was reluctant to order again.
No, I will not be ordering again from this company.

c&nn

"

I have located your order and I am in the process of reviewing your information. I would like you to know that I will be contacting you via e-mail shortly. We will make every effort to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

Sadly as a first time customer, I would rate the experience with park seeds as "poor at best". In June 2007 placed a phone order for ice plant seeds (order #4840508). I made multiple phone calls checking the shipping status of my order always with the same response "it will be sent out within the next 1-2 weeks". Finally in September I emailed the company. They did response quickly and said the seeds were for fall shippng (this was never mentioned at order time or during phone calls). I cancelled my order and was told my credit card charges would be refunded. As of yet (end of October) I have yet to see my credit card charges refunded. The company was quick to charge my account but not as quick to refund my account.
Unfortunately, I would not order from Park Seeds again.

"

I have located your order and I am in the process of reviewing your information. I would like you to know that I will be contacting you via e-mail shortly. We will make every effort to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I have ordered from this company for years, but... they just shipped me colchicums which had flowered and withered long, long, ago. (Order #4928144, ) They had obviously flowered in storage, before my order was even packed - i.e they just do not care what they are sending out. I see they are still trying to sell off these colchicums on the web - have to assume those will be the same condition, and that Parks knows it. They did offer me a merchandise credit on my next order - I would rather have had bulbs of reasonable quality in the first place.

"

I have located your order and I am in the process of reviewing your information. I would like you to know that I will be contacting you via e-mail shortly. We will make every effort to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

This is my letter to Park seed company:
Dear Madam/Sir,
I am writing with respect to my order, # 4875625.
I just wanted to say that I am deeply disappointed with the experience you provided for me, as a first-time customer.
Just to remind you, my order was placed on July 30th, 2007. It was comprised of several seed packs, several bulb packs, and a fig, as is detailed below:
#90253 Shasta Daisy Collection Qty 1 $6.51
(3-pack offer, a total of 100 seeds)
#1540 Park's Candy Lily (20 seeds) Qty 1 $3.28
#0745 Garden Pink Siberian Blues (50 seeds) Qty 1 $2.76
#8304 Lily-of-the-Valley (10 pips) Qty 1 $9.31 Fall Shipping
#8119 Large Economy Crocus Mix (10 corms) Qty 1 $4.63 Fall Shipping
#7521 Hyacinth Mix (5 bulbs) Qty 1 $6.51 Fall Shipping
#7853 Tulip Blue Diamond (10 bulbs) Qty 1 $6.51 Fall Shipping
#8366 Tulip Blue Parrot (10 bulbs) Qty 1 $9.31 Fall Shipping
#1840 Summer Savory (100 seeds) Qty 1 $1.36
#1208 Lavender French Long (100 seeds) Qty 1 $1.36
#1137 Lavender Munstead (100 seeds) Qty 1 $1.36
#1909 Madagascar Jasmine (6 seeds) Qty 1 $4.45
#48012 Petite Black Fig Qty 1 $13.99 Fall Shipping
#3304 Cypress Vine Mix (30 seeds) Qty 1 $1.83
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Merchandise Subtotal $73.17
Shipping & handling (includes additional shipping charges) $11.95
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Order Total $85.12

I have to mention the following:
1. The prices shown reflect the discount for the “first time customer”.
2. My card was charged at the time of the order (company policy), not at the time of shipping.
3. Fall shipping date on your site, for my zone, was given as September 10th.

The seeds I received in a timely manner.
Correspondence with the customer service was started on September 14th, 2007, partly because I received confirmation only for the crocus bulbs, with no other information for further shipping of my order, partly because, after 3 weeks of waiting, none of the 6 madagascar jasmine seeds germinated. I mentioned that, living in Miami, if I ever want to have those bulbs flowered, I have to chill them first, for at least 6 weeks.
The response came fast: the rest of the items were not available, though they all appeared available on their site, until late September early October. With respect to the jasmine, they informed me that it usually takes longer than 30 days, and I should wait some more.
Another email was sent on October 5th. In it I was again asking information about the status of my order, since September was ended and the first week of October was gone. In addition, I was providing information about all the seeds I’ve started and the results: no Jasmine germinated (after more than 6 weeks of waiting), only two Cypress vine seeds out of 30, and I also mentioned of my satisfaction about the lavenders (French lavender 14 out of 20 started, Munstead 3 out of 20), considering all the bad reputation lavender seeds have (poor germination rates). I requested if possible, the germination rated obtained by park gardeners for the Madagascar jasmine and cypress vine seed.
Again, a response came fairly quick. I was informed that the bulbs I had on the list will be ready to ship within the next two weeks. Another email came from one of the horticulturists, saying that they will replace the jasmine and cypress vine seeds. I was very grateful for this, and I asked for some additional information for the jasmine seeds, so I would not fail again. I received a response.
Monday October 8th I’ve got shipment confirmation for the seed replacements. They arrived same week.
On Monday October 15th, I received shipment confirmation for 3 more items: the fig, the hyacinths, and the blue diamond tulips.
They arrived on October 18th. The shipment was well packed. The fig was looking good, not a leaf broken. The hyacinth bulbs seemed OK and plump, though moist (humidity from the package?).
But the tulip bulbs! The only positive thing about them was their size. Otherwise, one of them was rotten: soft (mushy) and brown; the rest (9 bulbs) were all covered with brawny spots/blemishes, looking like having a fungal/parasitical infection. It is not the first time I’ve ever seen tulip bulbs, but I can tell you that I’ve never seen such a thing.
Two persons handled the items in the package (they have numbers assigned: filled by #110, packed by #26), and none of them didn’t seem to notice or care that a rotten bulb (let’s not talk about the bad-looking bulbs) is sent to their eager and naïve customer, who made full payment almost 3 months ago.
I took some time to cool my thoughts, and I’ve decided to write this letter so you would know why you will never have me as a customer again.
While writing this long story, I’ve received shipment confirmation email again. It’s for the blue parrot bulbs.
The lily-of-the-valley are still to be delivered. But, as your site shows, they are out of stock. Probably the reason why they are not shipped to me at this time…
I will stop here, I could have said more about more of your seeds, but it doesn’t matter anymore. I will buy from another company. One that cares.
Alexandra

"

I have located your order and I am in the process of reviewing your information. I would like you to know that I will be contacting you via e-mail shortly. We will make every effort to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I ordered 2 Encore azaleas and 2 Double Knock-out Roses from Park after failing to find them at my local nurseries. Total price with shipping was $83.71.

Upon finally receiving them, I discovered the Roses were badly burned by sun - blackened stems and shriveled leaves/buds. Soil was dripping wet.

Of the Azaleas, one was half dead. I took photos and wrote to Park for a partial refund, which they quickly handled.

These plants cost $20 each. The size of the roses was pathetic and the condition appalling. The half-dead azalea looks now like it's completely dead. I am incredibly disappointed in the roses - I told Park in my letter I would be embarrassed to pay even $7 or less for a plant of this size and in this condition.

I rarely do mail order, preferring to support our local stores. But I have purchased some plants over the years from High Country Gardens and Jackson & Perkins, as well as a couple of other growers, and all were in good condition. But this order was disastrous, and a waste of my money. I will not ever order from them again.

"

I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I have ordered from Park Seed for years. I just ordered 3 times in the last month. Orders have arrived in good time. I ordered strawberries this last spring and was amazed at the size of the plants. I live in Oklahoma and find the plants and seeds do well in my climate. Have recommended this company to several gardening friends.

interesting reading the last couple of posts in Sept, 07. I just received my plants today, that I ordered in July for "fall shipping" and these were the sickest looking things ever. I just posted my complaint on their website so I don't have an outcome yet. But since Mr. Johnson seems to read these posts I'll enter my order number here so he can look it up:#4889554. I received 3 CERATOSTIGMA PLUMBAGINOIDES that were sick and mildewed. I might not think much about it but a few weeks ago I received 3 from Bluestone that were healthy, green and have even bloomed since receiving them. The ones from Park will never make it they are so diseased. The other plant was a double knockout and like another person posted, this was a small plnat - that's OK, but the few remaining leaves were all covered in black spot - again so sick looking and the stems are barely 1/8 inch thick - it will take a long time to get this plant healthy. So, I will see how Park's responds.

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I have located your order and I am in the process of reviewing your information. I would like you to know that I will be contacting you via e-mail shortly. We will make every effort to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
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I placed and order in August for early September shipping. The ordered has just arrived.Consisted of ASCLEPIAS GAY BUTTERFLIES, ECHINACEA SUNDOWN,and DIANTHUS.The tops of plants are rotted from being soaking wet and sealed with styrofoam peanuts. Remove them from containers and there are barely any root system and what there were are thin and straggley. Very disappointed after this long wait.I immediately wrote to the company and am now awaiting their reply.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

I am concerned that I have not yet resolved the issue at hand and would like an opportunity to do so; however, I have not yet received a reply from you concerning this matter. Please contact us at your earliest convenience. Customer satisfaction is very important to us.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

I did not receive the above mentioned email that you sent on 10/03/07. Please re-send it at your earliest convenience and I will be more than happy to help resolve the issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
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I have done business with Park Seed Company and have been for the most part happy with what they shipped. But, I just recieved a rose bush for fall planting and it has to rank as the most pathetic little plant ever sent. I swear the base of the rose wasn't 1/16" in diameter. I have a rose coming from Wayside Gardens; it will probably be a dud too.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

I am concerned that I have not yet resolved the issue at hand and would like an opportunity to do so; however, I have not yet received a reply from you concerning this matter. Please contact us at your earliest convenience. Customer satisfaction is very important to us.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]
"

I ordered an Iris, 'BOLD PRETENDER' (LOUISIANA HYBRID) from Park Seed in May. The first one arrived wrapped in plastic wrap, in the heat of summer, and had totally turned to mush. I called the company and told them and was told that another Iris would be sent to me in the Fall. I had no problem with that, in fact it made sense. @ weeks later another Iris arrived in exactly the same condition. I called them again and requested a credit to my account, which I did get. There didn't seem to be much point in trying again.
I also ordered 2 Corkscrew Rush Unicorn plants which arrived separately and they were rather puny and frail. I am hoping they will survive.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]"

This year I became a customer with Park Seed and I never had a problem with my order. I ordered over a hundred dollars worth of calla lillies, bareroot roses, snapdragons and a couple of other flowers. I was very pleased with my order. The man i spoke with at Park Seed was very helpful on the growing conditions of each of my plants and how long I could wait to plant them bc I couldn't get them in the ground right away. I thought that the prices were fair and that i recieved great service from the company. My family has dealt with Park Seed for as long as I can remember and they're still customers to this very day. Thanks for running such a great company. I can't understand how people have such big issues, most of them seem to be minor mistakes blown out of proportion.

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I am happy to hear that you enjoyed our products and services so much. It is great to see that our staff Horticulturist was able to help with all of your inquiries. Thank you for taking the time to let us know.

We would love to forward your compliments; if you would send us your order information, we can let the appropriate department know that their efforts were recognized and appreciated. Please email me your zip code, last name, and order number.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Department
e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com"

This is the First and Last time I will ever order from this company. I ordered some seed packs and all seem reasonably priced with the exception of one type of tomato (I won't say it's name because I refust to promote it here) which cost 6.95 per pack. I checked to see the number of seeds per pack, but didn't see it listed on their site, so I assumed it would be 20-30 seeds like their other seed packages. I decided to purchase two packages for 13.90 and can you imagine my surprise when my package showed up today and the 2 seed packs contained only TEN seeds per package!!!!!!! Almost 14.00 for 20 lousy seeds??? This company is shady, sneaky and dishonest by not openly posting the severely limited number of seeds you get in this particular seed package for 6.95!!!!!!!!! Their site claims their are a limited number of these seeds, but who gives a crap, this is the biggest embarresment I have faced to date purchasing seeds from any on line company. Stay far away from this place. If their ratings aren't enough to scare you off, then please don't end up getting suckered like me. Imagine all the seeds you can get ANYWHERE else but Parks for 14.00 and then go there!!!!

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]"

Park Seed used to be they were a great company for "one stop" plant shopping, but they have been in slow decline over the last 20 years. Let me tell you my latest experience with them. Last fall I ordered a peony from them and it came to $32 & change, a bit high but OK if it's good plant. I get a root with 6 eyes -great - but it had been in storage for sometime and started sprouting going into winter and the shoots were killed. I contact them and am given a Monty Python Dead Parrot like routine - give it time - its going to come out of it - etc. Figuring it will be too late by the time I convince them I order another in the spring figuring I can get my money back later, but they don't have the same cultivar and the second root I get has one tiny eye which has gone brown - don't know if the root is still alive. To make matters worse they only refund the cost of the first plant, but not the $8-9 I paid for shipping.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem, I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]"

Last fall I bought 3 Japanese Willow Flamingo and an Avant-Garde Clematis. When my order arrived there was no avant-garde clematis with my order. I emailed and they claimed it had been mailed in a seperate box, but I never did receive it. They did say they would replace in spring. I did receive my replacement clematis in very late spring. It was sent bare root, but looked more like a dried up dead root. I planted it and it never did anything. So it was a dried up dead root.

None of the 3 willows survived either, but that was not Park seed's fault. They were very small when they arrived. They all came up in spring and then we got a very late frost. Within a month they were all dead.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem, I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

I am concerned that I have not yet resolved the issue at hand and would like an opportunity to do so; however, I did not receive the email you referenced concerning this matter. Please contact us at your earliest convenience. Customer satisfaction is very important to us.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]"

Hmm. Well all I can do is go with my experience with this company which has been all good. When necessary, I have had very good customer service (I usually do this via email) even on very small orders and so far all plants have arrived in great condition. I even went into last year's records of my orders and may I say that all the plants I ordered from Parks in 2006 are alive and well and thriving in my Z5 garden.

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Thank you for the comment. That is wonderful!"

I ordered bulbs and perennials last Fall. They arrived late, (even though I had called to express my concerns) after we already began having frosts in South Dakota. The bulbs came up fine, but none of the perennials came up and they sent me a peach daylily instead of Rainbow candy. I didn't know till it bloomed two weeks ago that it was the wrong kind. I contacted them July 29th and received the following response on August 13: "Our Horticulturist do feel that varieties planted in the fall should be up andgrowing by mid to late spring of the following year. If you do not have growthat that time, please do not hesitate to let us know during the guarantee period.I'm sorry but the guarantee is no longer in effect for your fall order. " Given how late the order was sent and how long they take to answer, I'm quite unsatisfied with their uncooperativeness.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem, I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]"

The quality of the plants that I received was very poor and they were not sent until the middle of June when our temperatures had soared to 90+. Although the plants were immediately planted and watered many did not survive the hot temperatures. Some of the order was not sent and no refund was made. I wrote the company twice with no response so have resorted to the BBB and online advertising of their negative sevice.

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I have reviewed your above posting and I am seeking the opportunity to address this matter. Unfortunately, the information contained within was not sufficient to locate your order in our database. In order to rectify the problem, I must request that you e-mail us with your billing information, including zip code and order number if available.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
[e-mail:JJohnson@parkseed.com]

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Park Seed is quite good at sending seeds on time and their seeds are of superior quality. Their plants seem to be inferior quality. They stand behind them but who needs credit everywhere? That is not what i am looking for in good plants.
My biggest beef is that they probably ought to get out of the retail business.........because they don't follow up on orders where it involves supplies. I called the week before July 4th asking in particular for 10 perma nest trays that I need to be able to go out of town. I have had to delay my trip all month (even though I have called them twice about the order).........here is I sit without being able to wick my plants to get out of town.............I think I am ready to give up on them..................

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I have located your order and I am in the process of reviewing your information. I would like you to know that I will be contacting you via e-mail shortly. We will make every effort to resolve this issue.

Jay Johnson
Customer Contact Representative
JJohnson@parkseed.com

Thank you so much for the update."