Excellent selection of all kinds of palms, and exotics...cycads, big aloes, and surprisingly, avocados! These guys know their avocados and have a big selection of what grows near here. You get to walk through the nursery and among section after section of exotic plants. Not only do they have exotic plants, but many of each, so you can build your own grove of aloe bainesii, or surround your home in various palms. I had questions, and the guy working there had answers. He was well informed and helpful. The place is big, so I did have to hunt around to find him though. Bonus: there were 3 cute friendly kitties and a sweet dog on site. read more

We bought a few avocado trees with suggestions from the super helpful staff. They were very healthy and even produced a few avocados the first year. I was going to come back again as it is a beautiful playground for those people who love them you know who you are. maybe a giant palm that's what I need read more

I wish I had land.... well sorta. If I did their variety of avocado fruit n citrus tress look awesome! I was there looking for indoor plants. Not a lot of choices. I remember 29 years ago having just moved into a single family home in Marina Bay, we purchased 3 palm trees from here. The idea was to plant them in the ground in out back yard as well as one out front. That was until I found out my company wanted to transfer me to Portland OR. I went back and asked how the palms would transition to the Oregon climate. I was told the two may be ok if we covered them in the winter with clear plastic while the odd ball one will handle it no problem. ( sorry odd ball is my non technical term for the one we planned to place out front. A dwarf that wouldn't get too big). We still kept them in the original wood and metal crates, and shipped them with our belongings to Beaverton. Well after 4 years in Oregon, wound up loosing one of the fan palms. But the dwarf and the other fan palm made it to sunny Southern California where we lived for 20 years. The fan palm box finally collapsed through the two moves and we planted it in the breezeway Behind the house. The dwarf fan got permanently placed in a planter box in the front of the Laguna house. So I'm happy to report (unless google hasn't updated it) That dwarf palm thrives on actually growing rather outta control still 29 years to this day. At the end of the day to me, to me part the California dream is to have palm trees on your property. Nice to know these proved to be healthy happy reminders as their roots are firmly back in California soil . read more

Golden Gate Palms & Exotics - On the left next to stairs, the dwarf palm. 29 years, 3 moves from Bay Area to Oregon to Laguna later; and it's still thriving! - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Richmond, California

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We've spent thousands of dollars at Golden Gate Palms over the years, but our recent experience was a disappointing letdown. I purchased two avocado trees, hand-picked by their staff, at an outrageous $375 each, thinking the trees would be mature and produce fruit sooner. Within months, one tree overproduced and died, clearly a sign of a bad tree or bad advice. When I reached out to Gary for help, he refused to offer a replacement or even a reasonable discount, showing zero care for customer loyalty. His prices are absurdly inflated--Home Depot offers far better quality trees at a third of the cost. Save your money and shop elsewhere; Golden Gate Palms isn't worth its premium price. read more

These guys are pros! I've been coming here for years checking out their products and dreaming of finally having my own place to plant some avocados. The day finally came recently, and I came here to pick up a type A and type B tree. The staff was really helpful in answering questions. They also ensured I knew the best method to transplant without damaging the rootball. AND they loaded everything into my SUV for me, without me having to ask for help. I'm generally strong but am nursing an injury and greatly appreciated not having to do any heavy lifting myself. My trees are already in the ground and I am so glad I chose to come here. read more

Golden Gate Palms & Exotics - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Richmond, California

Bought the largest fuerte tree available a few years ago, I also paid to have it shipped and planted (over $1300 for the tree and delivery/planting) thinking the nursery would know best, 4 years later the tree hasn't produced one fruit and doesnt even flower, the tree is about 12ft high, don't be fooled when purchasing. The only follow up I have from the owner is to continue waiting. read more

Not much of a selection of small palm trees, attitude of sales people was lacsidasical. Requested follow up call, which never came.. Was convenient to the East Bay, but Go elsewhere! NCA Berkeley,CA read more

I rarely write reviews but I couldn't let this experience go by without it. At first visit, they should charge an entry fee as it's such a spectacular place, you feel instantly transported to a tropical place! Shoot you could have an event there it's so cool! Kyle and Gary were amazingly knowledgable -- I couldn't be happier with the trees that I purchase!!! read more

I wish I could like this Nursery. Several weird things ! Apparently if u call or email to discuss purchasing, and you are a woman , they ask u to pay $100 bucks to talk about inventory . This is so strange . I only was inquiring about certain species & pricing . I had my SO , call and what a surprise, no fee was requested ? Seriously. He proceeded to e mail also , again no fee was requested. Now , maybe , these two gents , have had time wasted , W female customers ? I don't know . And they implemented this policy ? I told him , I do not have 100 bucks worth of questions . For some lame reason , I drove over . Not impressed . They proceeded to Immediately , act like I was at a car dealership. They had no idea , I knew my stuff & they were lying about value and rarity . It was creepy . They also rather rudely drive a forklift around , so close to shoppers , the entire experience was so odd . Weird They are enthusiastic & I don't see why they decided to approach this business w such weirdness . The prettiest part is the outdoor furniture , which seemed like it was maybe separate from the nursery, cause it was displayed so professionally , compared to the demeanor these two exhibit . I was a buyer , I spent three grand elsewhere . Foolish are they ! Charging female customers, not male ? To discuss a purchase, I also asked , if the fee would apply to my purchase, nope ! No way . These two sharks , Better rethink this approach. Is this legal ? Hmmm I don't think so . Very odd and Actually unusual . I do give two stars Some inventory was decent looking & I think if u are a man U might have a better experience . Seriously , unbelievable. I Highly recommend, " jungle Bamboo and Palms " Andy , it's like night and day ! The nicest lot & the olive trees and so many species of bamboo . He also , gives you utter space , to roam and is available when u are ready . No fees ! And all such healthy and happy plants . It's a gorgeous nursery. This guy also , is full of knowledge, that's not BS . read more

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I have never been here. Writing a review because I was looking for a lemon tree. Left a message. He called me back within an hour. Very nice and informative. No citrus to be found anywhere. But, I appreciate the call back which equals great customer service. I will keep them in mind when I am in need of flora and or fauna. read more

The palms look nothing like they do on the website. Most plants look like they're about to die. Not all palms are labeled so that's annoying. I know I can ask for help on identifying them but I feel I would be annoying to the employee having them tell me what each palm is. Palms are way over priced for not being at their best. Discount should be applied if there is major damage to the plant. read more

We met Jorge at Golden Gate Palms and he represented the company very professionally. We purchased a palm using his guidance and will be returning when the weather warms up. If you ever need anything special for your yard this is the place to go. read more

Golden Gate Palms & Exotics - Sago Palm - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Richmond, California

Living in NorCal I thought it was going to be impossible to find the expensive and sought after Gem Avocado tree. I was ready to order online and pay the shipping to have it sent up north. I even called the distributor who is the only licensed (as far as I know) seller of this type of avocado tree. They only sold to businesses and it required 20+ trees and they would only drive so far North. Point being, I did my research and knew it would be a pain in the ass to find one of these without having to make a road trip or have them shipped to me from a relatively unknown website. Then I came across one of Gary's YouTube videos and he referenced having a shipment of Gem's coming in soon (his videos are hilarious by the way). I really lucked out when I called and was told they did in fact have about a dozen babies still in plastic sleeves ready to be sold. I drove down there the next day and picked two out. Yes they are small and expensive but that's the price you pay for being picky with what you want, and I wanted the Gem! Planted them in larger containers with the intention of putting them in the ground next year. They're doing great and have little sprouts shooting up from the trunk. I highly recommend talking to Gary to see if they have whatever exotic plant you're after and if not, can they get it in. I would be willing to bet they could pull a few strings if it's at all possible. read more

Gary the owner charged me a decent amount to come out and consult, the fee being refundable to tree purchase. Fair enough, he's in Livermore, I'm in San Jose, he could spend 100% of his time on long drives for every single interested prospect. He came out and spent a good amount of time looking at my two queen palms, one of which was sick and the other reasonably healthy. Gary gave me a complete diagnosis of both trees and the possibility of remove/replace of the sick tree. I learned alot about how to care for these trees, I wish the original landscape installer had told me half of these things. Gary took lots of pics, looked carefully at the trunk shape, frond shape, etc... He went back and found a good match and installed it this morning. Took like two hours from arrival to departure, and left very little mess, no landscape or lighting damage. Replacement tree is much greener than my other current healthy tree. Gary went over the feeding and care of these, which was much more detailed than the scant directions I got the first time. Basically if you're going to invest lots of money in these trees, understand how to care for them. Gary goes into extensive detail on that, for which I'm grateful. He also provided a bag of special palm fertilizer which I could not seem to acquire from anywhere else. So far, the first day of the new tree, the whole experience has been great. I think the price was fair, from what I remember of the first tree purchase/install, quite fair all told. read more

Golden Gate Palms & Exotics - new tree being hoisted over it's new home - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Richmond, California

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We was in the market for a few citrus and avocado tree but before going to Golden Gate Palms we decided to call before going. Unfortunately we was not able to get through to anyone. 30 mins later we received a call back from Kyle who was really helpful, knowledgeable and informative. We appreciate the call back which equals excellent customer service. We bought a few avocado trees and a lemon tree and will definitely be returning for more in the future. read more

I'm biased from his YouTube vids and spent more per tree then ever but the two avocadoes I brought back in my sports car trunk, 3hr trip, are my best avo trees after 2.5 yrs in the ground. Reed and Wurtz not available to ME in farther N. Cali any better way. What's a few hundred bucks to get what you want when you will invest far more in water, work, time and plant food over the yrs? VERY strong little trees on purchase turned into medium size lush beautiful trees already. Nursery is also a fun interesting place to visit. read more

Beautiful variety a lot of different plants very knowledgeable staff in addition to being very friendly

Overall 4/5 Just because I haven't purchased anything yet, but 5/5 on the customer service I've received so far! I've been in communication with Kyle via e-mail and he's provided nothing but excellent customer support so far. From recommendations on trees to even recommending other locations because they didn't have the type of avocado tree I was looking for in stock. I'm looking forward to actually visiting the location eventually. read more

Exotic and inspiring! Even if you're not in the market for a specimen just go to Peru's owners amazing and madcap creations! Owner and employee, Willow are both funky and incredibly helpful. Love a good local character or 2 ;) Bravo! read more

Gary has the best selection around of Palm trees and succulents. He has a vast knowledge of plants as well as microclimates. We had him come to our property to show him where we needed palm trees and a shade tree. He has so many ideas! We are on phase one with him currently but he has 3 phases for our property. He understood our budget and that's why he set up phases:) We have the most beautiful tipitu tree now and are so happy with all the palms and avocados. He recommended 3 varieties of avocados that will give us fruit all year long. The trees we got from Gary have vastly improved our property and pool area! We're so thankful to Gary:) read more

This is a long overdue review for Gary Gragg. About 16 years ago, Gary and his crew were doing a lot of landcape design and installation, and he put the most magnificent garden in my front yard in Lafayette. They did the hardscape, brick pillars, steps, and plants. He was super knowledgable and loves to choose interesting plants and trees - not just the the standard fare you see in many yards. He was such a personable and fun person to have around, too. Sadly, a few years later, we moved, but I actually drive by the old house to marvel at the plants and how they are maturing in the space. It's a shame you can't take the yard with you when you move. 16 years later, my son was learning to drive, and accidentally took out a bunch of branches along a neighbor's hedge row. Fortunately, these hedges were the kind to heartily grow back - but the opportunistic homeowners gave me an inflated bill for $5000 to replace the hedges. Not knowing any other plant experts, I called up Gary. He came to my rescue, and wrote up a much more reasonable estimate - though his recommendation was to just leave them and let them fill in. The homeowners wanted cash, so ultimately my insurance paid them based on Gary Graggs estimate, not the inflated one. I know Gary is very busy, and was so grateful to him for coming out on short notice and helping a local friend in need. I truly respect his knowledge for plants and landscaping, and loyalty to his friends and clients in our community. read more

I bought 15 gallon avocado tree - 3.5 months later this thing has put on 2 feet in height and lots of new branches. I was concerned about some leaves darkening and so I sent an email and pics. They wrote back the next day - (Kyle, I think), said not to worry about the leaves dying (natural when tree is producing lots of new sprouties) , but the guy did express concern that based on the photo my tree was not getting enough sun. Also he advised to carefully paint the new stems with white paint. It's so fun dealing with local, passionate businesses. read more

Amazing selection of palm trees and succulents! Friendly and helpful staff. I will return! read more

Golden Gate Palms & Exotics - Palm trees! Palm trees! Palm trees! I think these are Norfolk Island Palms. - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Richmond, California

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We recently put in a pool at our house, and wanted to do a tropical garden around it. We spent a lot of time and money (on multiple landscape architects), unsuccessfully trying to figure out what to do - until I found Gary. The problem with landscape architects is that they can specify all sorts of exotic tropical plants - but it doesn't help if you can't find those plants, or they won't grow in your backyard. With Gary, it's the perfect situation - he's incredibly knowledgeable (I believe he used to do a lot of landscape designs), and he has AFAICT the biggest inventory of palms and tropical plants in the Bay Area. Plus he knows what grows around here - and where to place them in your garden. For a large landscape project, where you're willing to pay for some of his time, his service can't be beat. I spent time with him in his nursery, a couple of hours on the phone, and then ultimately he came down to my place with a truckload of plants and we just placed them everywhere to see what we liked before planting. Ultimately, despite spending a decent amount of money, I feel like it was a great value... And now we have our tropical paradise! read more

Golden Gate Palms & Exotics - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Richmond, California

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Best palm spot! Kyle was awesome and really went beyond to help us get the perfect palm. We settled on a 4.5 foot windmill palm for our SF spot to go with our Queen palm we got from here as well. He even let me take a dried palm frond, which will now hang on a wall in my office! Great selection, even better service! read more

Golden Gate Palms & Exotics - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Richmond, California

I was looking for some palm trees for my backyard but had no idea what kind would work in Northern California. I was told about Golden Gate Palms so when I called, I got the owner, Gary, on the phone. We talked for 45 minutes about palm trees and scheduled a time for him to come to my house to help me figure it out. For a fee, not only did i get advise on what palms would look good and work for my environment, he drew out plans for my whole backyard. He is extremely knowledgable, professional, personable and I now know that I can go to him for future landscaping needs. UPDATE: I had him plant several palms in my backyard and one shocked badly so Gary came out , in the rain no less, and replaced it. Once again, this is your guy to go to if you are looking for exotic plants or palms in Nor Cal area. Very satisfied customer! read more

Great place to do business with. I bought a medium avacado. It is doing very well.

Lots of plants -- mostly similar to each other, few labeled, priced, or described as to ideal environment in which they might thrive. Way understaffed. Don't waste your time. read more

Gary I don't even know how you sleep at night. We spent 25 thousand dollars on 2 grand king palm trees just to have both of them show signs of sickness months after purchase, and die completely within a year. Gary either doesn't respond or doesn't take accountability. Total dirtbag, he's a thief! avoid this store at all costs. And gary - I hope you are filled with years of bad luck to come in your life! read more

We came here to get avocado trees, as our local nurseries in Sacramento didn't seem to have any avocado trees above 2 feet tall. This place had a great selection! there were probably about 30 different types of avocado trees of all sizes. Willow helped us and and was extremely knowledgeable about the different features of each type of avocado tree and what would work best for our climate and fruit wants. We ended up with a dwarf Wurtz and a Fuerte. They also had an awesome selection of succulents! read more

Golden Gate Palms has the most exotic and rare palms! Having a beautiful garden with unique plants bring me so much joy. My favorite are the yucca rostratas! I have seen people take photos and videos of my palms. After the installation, I have been spending a lot more time in my garden! A special thank you to Gary's vision and design, Jorge's hard work, Kyle for helping me pick plants at the nursery, and everyone who helped throughout the process. These exotic yet cold hardy palms can make you feel like you're in San Diego, Miami, Hawaii or even Dubai! read more

We bought three trees from GG palms. They were great in talking us through which trees would work best for our area. We got the more mature avocados I was after and added the mango tree that thought we should give a shot. It looks like it ended up being a great gamble! We've gotten a dozen or so delicious mangos and the tree is pushing out lots of new growth. A landscaper we had doing other work said it's only the third mango tree he's ever seen in the peninsula area; San Carlos, Redwood City etc. Tree seems very happy where it is. The avocados had a bit of a tougher transit. We kept them watered in the boxes they came for a few months and they were pretty happy. I built some redwood tree boxes and filled them with quality heavily rich soil/sand mix. Planted the trees and topped with lots of mulch. Unfortunately I think we may have chosen a spot with too much sun exposure. They were burned and showing some distress. Once I did some research and painted them they seem much happier. Pushing out lots of new growth now. Overall we are very happy with the trees, service and support we've gotten from a Gary and Golden Gate Palms. Looking forward to lots of years of delicious mangos and avocados! read more

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First of all, typical of most businesses, the pictures on the website look NOTHING like the trees they actually sell. The avocados were scraggly and frost burned, not bushy and green like they show. Second. On the website they list a price range for each size tree. Shocker. They only have the most expensive ones for sale. Last, the place is almost impossible to find. If you are lucky enough to figure it out, you wander aimlessly through the forest of trees until you stumble on the only person there. This is crazy!!! read more

Met Gary for the first time when he personally dropped off my trees. He is a nice and knowledgeable guy. With a doubt his nursery is awesome with a selection you just cannot find elsewhere in the Bay Area - a true gem! I tried to buy everything I could see. Top quality trees!!! Kyle and Gabriel were great too in helping me select trees for my area. If you want awesome and hard to find trees and are serious about quality I highly recommend a trip to Golden Gate Palms. read more

After visiting the nursery in Richmond several times and buying small plants that will fit in the car, we decided to go big with two 24" box avocado trees. We've been dreaming of growing our own avocados for years and finally bit the bullet. Avocado trees are the main ingredient of our "Guacamole Garden" dream. We bought large trees from Gary so we can hopefully get fruit in the next year or so. He helped locate a good spot for them and with his team, planted them. He also gave guidance on how to care for them including pruning and protective sunscreen. I only wish we had more space for avocado trees. read more

If you're looking for citrus or avocado trees, don't bother. The selection just wasn't there. There website suggest that you call first -- I tried for a week straight no one answers the phone. I even tried when I visited the place because I could find no one on the property -- no one answered. I was really disappointed with this place and it was a waste of my afternoon taking the time to drive down. read more

Absolutely incredible place for palms and exotics. Kyle helped educate us on what kinds of plants would do well in our climate, within our budget, all with a great strategy to help ease all of our concerns trying to get such a large palm into our backyard. The garden alone is well worth taking a trip to just to stroll and enjoy. read more

Great customer service. Employees really know what they're talking about! Kyle is awesome!

This place is awesome. Huge selection of every type of palm that you can think of. Kyle was a big help. He is super knowledgeable and passionate about palms. He ensured I got the best palm in my price range. I highly recommend!! read more

Gary, the owner, guided me carefully and thoughtfully through the process of picking out and installing palms. He called me consistently through the installation to make sure we were doing everything correctly. All his personnel were prompt and professional. The palms that we got are going to make our inner courtyard fantastic. Thanks to Gary and his whole gang. read more