Shopping Guide: Tropical Expressions
Tropical Expressions: Your Shopping Guide
Why You Should Visit
- A Bonsai Enthusiast's Paradise: You'll find an extensive selection of bonsai trees, including nursery specimens and fully potted ones, with a variety of species and price points. The location offers a vast collection, making it a worthwhile trip even from Toronto.
- Competitive Prices: Shoppers can expect reasonably priced trees and accessories, with some reviews suggesting prices are significantly lower than at other nurseries for comparable quality. Bonsai starter trees in pots are available for around $16, providing an accessible entry point.
- Knowledgeable and Helpful Staff: The staff is frequently praised for their expertise and willingness to assist, offering advice and answering questions. You can anticipate staff to go the extra mile, even assisting with carrying purchases to your car. Their expertise is particularly valuable for bonsai care, potentially guiding you towards plants suited for your home's specific conditions.
- Aesthetically Pleasing Environment: The space is described as having a clean, minimal, zen energy with a large greenhouse. It’s a pleasant place to browse and spend time, with many finding it an "absolute wonder" to walk through.
- Additional Perks: The location sometimes provides bonuses with purchases, such as free bonsai trees, adding to the value of your visit. Potting services are available for a small fee ($10), and they also offer online ordering with safe and fast delivery.
- Wide Selection: Beyond bonsai, shoppers will find a good selection of succulents, cacti, air plants, and accessories. The store carries items already planted in interesting planters.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Potential for Pests: Be aware that some customers have reported finding pests on trees purchased here. It’s advisable to quarantine and inspect new plants upon arrival.
- Humidity Considerations: The greenhouse environment is very humid. Consider the transition your new tropical bonsai will have to make if your indoor environment is dry.
- Customer Service Concerns: While many reviews highlight positive interactions, one customer reported a negative experience with customer service after finding pests on a recently purchased plant. They also state the company does not offer a warranty on plants, but will answer emails regarding issues.
- Price Sensitivity: While many find the prices reasonable, one review noted the plants were "a bit expensive" compared to other locations.
- Location Challenges: The store is a bit out of the way, located in a residential neighborhood. Note that one location is the main branch at the 25th ave, which operates during regular business hours. A two-hour drive might be necessary for some visitors.