Houston Garden Center (Spring, Caldwell, Crosby: buying, live, prices)

[kmalone4]

What do you think about these guys?

I've bought from them a time or two. They have a huge selection and decent prices. The issue arises when I need more info about a particular plant or tree. It seems there is little help available when it comes to answering questions about the plants, flowers or trees. Don't get me wrong, the people who work there are very nice.

I've tried calling several times and all I get is a recorded message advising me to come to the store. The message also advises that no one will call back for any reason.

I have a huge project coming up for my backyard, and althought HGC has the inventory I need I'm hesitant about sinking a significant amount of money in a place with such poor customer service.

I shop at the HGC on Holzwarth in Spring. Are they all like this or is my issue location specific?

Thanks.

[cheryjohns]

They are all like this. The thing is that their prices are really good - and in order to keep the prices down that low, they aren't going to worry whether the employees know much about plants, just that they work cheap. If you get an employee that knows a lot about plants, consider it a bonus, but don't expect it.

[tstone]

They carry Nelson Plant Food, which I am loyal to. When my mom & pop nursery runs out of it I'll go there. But otherwise I avoid. I've bought plants from them before so hopped up on steroids that they all die after you plant them in the ground. They've been exposed by and dodged the local media for selling possibly moldy mulch a few years ago. Their sod might have other dormant grasses/weeds in it that will come back later in the year and take over your yard. Personally I can't stand their whole business model and it is obvious they have zero respect for their non-English speaking employees. HGC is a prime example of why some people can't stand big-box type retail.

[ts403]

I don't care for Houston garden center either. Half the time I don't even know what I am buying because there are no tags on the plants. Personally I like Ashley nursery they are very friendly and the staff is knowledgeable. Also Houston plant and garden world has a great selection and they are 70% off right now and offer delivery. If you are looking for more exotic plants check out Caldwell nursery.

[LizzySWW]

We've had luck with hardy plants like boxwoods & indian hawthornes. Azaleas never do well for us from HGC. Lots of their plants come loaded with crab grass deep down in the pots so years after you plant them it's a problem. Big problem, trust me. HGC doesn't take returns on failed plants. Their bedding flowers are pretty healthy.

[right]

Most of my plants purchased from them have died. I recently bought some more wax myrtles and half of them died. Yeah, I got them half off, but I might as well buy full price from Lowes and not have any die.

I purchased St Augustine grass from them in late spring this year. It has all died and is now Bermuda and taking over half my yard.

I have to dig up half my yard next spring and buy some pallets from one of the many grass farms out here in Crosby.

[HoustonRonnie]

This is the time of year that I like them the most. Hibiscus and shrubs are all 70% off and all ceramic (not that plastic junk) pots are 50% off. I load up.

[ohmanon]

Have no problems with some of the plants but I went in looking for a Mimosa tree and they had no idea what I was talking about - one of the employees tried to show me something that did not even resemble the real thing. You're on your own there...I still go and yes, the pots are a good price right now. That's the one right off Rayford Rd. There is another nursery on 45-S toward spring that advertises I can't remember what % off but when I went there it was so outrageously overpriced I left - highway robbery to me.

[Houston321]

They are the Walmart of garden centers. They beat the hell out of the vendors for the cheapest prices, the vendors do it because they know HGC will move the product. Don't expect a lot of service or attention to detail.

[Sampaguita]

If you want staff that can give you detailed information about plants, your soil, hardiness, etc...HGC isn't the place. When I've been there with specific questions, no one can answer me with any real knowledge beyond what they think I want to hear.

You'll need to go to nurseries that aren't big box places like this. Prices will be higher though.