I have been shopping here since 1972 when I moved to Orinda! Always a great selection and helpful staff! They used to give me a rosebush every time I had a baby (4!). Nice people! Pat Rose read more

Super healthy plants options indoors and outdoors. Practical parking lot. Always some special offers on specifics going on. Expert advice at hand. Pottery a bit on the pricey side but quality is there read more

McDonnell Nursery - Ample parking - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Orinda, California

Great selection of plants. Have been looking for Ginger for a shady spot and found beautiful and full plants here.

FRIENDLY and very knowledgable. Helpful advice and lots of patience! Would recommend. I have used this nursery for years now. They deliver!

Fav nursery in Lamorinda! Family-owned nursery that has been around for 50+ years! Always a pleasure to come here: great plant selection all year around, friendly, knowledgeable staff, and convenient location. read more

McDonnell Nursery - Assorted succulents sold individually - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Orinda, California

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This is a great nursery with excellent personable service. Anytime I've had a plant question they've always been able to answer it above and beyond. They look up stuff for me and find the answer. They are so knowledgeable and have given me valuable tips about growing my vegetables. The owners are truly passionate about plants and eager to help you be a successful gardener. They helped me identify a bacterial problem that was beginning to appear my beloved lemon tree and what they suggested did the trick. My lemons are healthier now. They have some hard to find edibles there like Goji berry plants and San Marino variety tomatoes. With their great service, eagerness to help, and good inventory on plants they have become one of my go to places to get vegetables and edibles for my garden. read more

McDonnell Nursery - Mixed lettuce plant starts. - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Orinda, California

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I had a bad service experience with one of the guys working there. I'd bought a $200 Christmas tree and gave them my stand to set it and have it delivered. They cracked the bottom of the stand setting the tree so after a few days at home I realized all water was leaking out and pooling behind the tree. Since the tree wasn't sitting in water for 6 days now and the stand is broken I figured best to start over with a fresh one. So I bought a new stand and called them to see if I can have the tree replaced given the issue (seemed like a reasonable request and I was nice about it). The guy on the phone was unbelievably rude -- he actually hung up on me. I was shocked. Like why?? Anyhow, having spent lots of money here over the years and then had such an unpleasant customer experience I've decided to switch nursery's and share my experience. If you shop at a place enough, eventually a customer service thing will come up and you'd hope for a great experience, which is usually the case. Not sure why this guy was so unpleasant, but it was especially odd given the holiday season. read more

Overall this was a great experience but I'm reserving the last star for an in-house visit. Needing a groundcover that would be sun hearty as well as drought tolerant and able to stand our cold winters, I settled on a creeping thyme and fortunately McDonald's nursery had two flats of it. I purchased the flats over the phone very easily and at pick up they were very willing to bring the flats to my van. The plants themselves are in great condition and I'm hoping that they'll take root and do the job I'm looking to have done in my corner front yard. This was a nice little adventure for me and my son and again the purchase experience was extremely easy, over the phone help was very professional and courteous, and the price is reasonable. I'm looking forward to another visit, hopefully very soon. read more

McDonnell Nursery - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Orinda, California

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I really like this nursery, and the service is the best around. I've been coming here regularly over a few years now, and never leave empty handed. They have a wide variety of plants, shrubs and trees. They will take their time to answer any questions and are extremely helpful, especially for a novice gardener like myself. They also have adequate signage with clear descriptions and prices. This visit I came to get some flowering plants to add some color and fill in empty spots in my flower beds. I also wanted some rose bushes to fill in places where I removed other plants in an established rose garden. They have the largest collection of rose varieties I have seen anywhere, and the descriptions also have large pictures of the bloom. It's fun to just look at the array of types available. This time I found one with a great name, "Strike It Rich"! I have bought rose bushes here before and the quality is excellent. The nursery is large with lots of space to roam. The prices may seem high for some but the quality of plantings is worth it. If you want a bargain go to Home Depot but don't be disappointed if the plants don't survive, or have aphids. This nursery is a must for a nice garden. read more

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I have explored many nurseries and right now hanging baskets of plants are so very difficult to find. But no worries, the incredible artists at this Nursery can make magic happen. So grateful for these wonderful ladies who take care of me with kindness and artistry! The best by far! read more

McDonnell Nursery - Nurseries & Gardening Near Me - Orinda, California

First of all, this is a wonderful nursery I've gone to for years. Low key and expert in every aspect of gardening. In addition, I wanted to give a huge thank you to the owners, staff and crew. They repaired my lovely fountain, one of two I had bought there some months ago, but which had a flaw preventing it from working properly. Everyone on the team was super responsive and took care of everything, despite how long it had been since the purchase. It proved to me their integrity and commitment to the community. If you need anything gardening related, be sure to check them out. read more

Love the plants! Love the people that help you along w/ the mulch! Great place to go!

From the Orinda exit from Highway 24, head south on Moraga Way and in 5 minutes you'll arrive at the nursery. Established in 1933, this is something of an Institution, with a fine selection of healthy plants and very knowledgeable staff. They have a good number of 4" annuals and perennials, but I'm always impressed by the large number and variety of 1, 3 and 5 gallon containers of shrubs, flowers, and trees. They have a great selection of Peonies and Roses, and a beautiful collection of Maple Trees (large and small). They always provide reliable guidance and advice. Good variety of pottery, equipment and supplies available. read more

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My first time here and they wide selection of outdoor plants/trees. A few people asked if I needed help but I never know what I'm looking for until I see it. Which is why I'm giving 2 stars I found a really nice "Jack Frost" plant that had a metal stand in front with the name and details along with price printed on it "18.99" I thought it was beautiful and grabbed it along with a few other things. When I went to ring up I noticed the man behind the counter charged me $39.95 for it so I told him that the sign said different and he didn't really comment on that. So I said nevermind I won't take it. But it bothered me because I know what I read so I went back to the sign and brought it to the gentleman that rung me up. He said "oh wow that's interesting, thanks for bringing that." I said but I want that price because that's what's listed, he than proceeded to tell me that he knew what was wrong the sign that it said 1 gallon and these containers were 2 gallon containers ...!? SO THEN WHY WOULDNT YOU PUT THE ACCURATE PRICE ON IT? I asked him that and he said oh because people take the signs and place them somewhere else.... Still doesn't make sense. And 18.99x2 is 37.98 not 39.95, I just left again without buying it and I was frustrated with the lack of price transparency. I can't stand when a business can't own up to their mistakes and makes excuses on why they're charging their customers more. I don't think I'll be back. read more

Unfortunately, I am updating my review due to a recent visit. I drove out to McDonnell nursery today to purchase a few plants. I was stopped at the gate by a woman who told me that they were by appt only. I went to turn around and go to my car, when she proceeded to ask me what I was looking for. I shared with her that I just needed a few things and that I knew exactly what I needed. She then told me that I'd have to email her and that she'd respond in 4 days. Then she said very abruptly that she couldn't help me. I could see inside the outdoor nursery and there were no people walking around, except staff. Literally, the place was empty. I decided to drive over to ACE Hardware, got what I needed in 15 minutes, and the place was way more busy. It just makes no sense to me. read more

I love adding new additions to my garden. Mcdonnell Nursey is the best place to come for new plants, seeds, and supplies. The customer service is beyond any other place I have ever been. McDonnell Nursey is just off of Moraga Way in the city of Orinda. They have fair prices and a huge selection. If you need any supplies McDonnell will be theplace to go. read more

I really like this place as an alternative to The Orchard and Sloat. Better variety than Sloat, and less expensive than the Orchard. If you're looking for a place that has great variety, especially if trees, this is your spot. $25 delivery fee to pleasant hill was a bonus. read more

great nursery off the beaten path. great selection of succulents too. plenty of parking

Great friendly service with a fantastic selection of household and outside plants! Go check them out.

I've been in twice since my first review. Just left - Still no one acknowledges you!!! I'd love to buy local but ...I can't! read more

Went to the shop for your first time two months after and have a good time walking around. Some of the plants are a bit over priced but we will be back again soon! read more

Shout out to McDonnell's Nursery, a local family owned business with excellent customer service. A lovely varied selection of shrubs, flowers, plants, trees, great parking, a lovely gift shop area (not sure, it might be closed during the pandemic) and a pleasant environment. A little story to support my 5 star rating. I bought a number of cyclamen plants, brought them home and planted them. In just a few days they were looking very sad and droopy. I called McDonnell's on a day they were closed (I didn't realize they had reduced days during Covid) but the owner answered. He listened to my tale and said to dig them up and bring them in, he'd replace them. I should note here that I am no gardener and other than planting annuals for some color in my pots I'm fairly inept. But still, in the past I haven't killed off the plants in just a couple of days. No problem, I hauled them back to McDonnell's and had a delightful lesson on the proper way to plant cyclamen, the problem was mine not theirs. That being said they happily gave me all new plants. That will bring me back to shop there again and spread the word. read more

Short and sweet, we love this place! Lots of variety and help if you needed it. We showed a picture of a plant we wanted and they took us right to it! read more

First time here and received wonderful customer service. I didn't get his name, but he helped me every step of the way with the peace lilies I bought as gifts. I bought pots as well and he potted them for me! They look beautiful. I will come back again. It is actually a really cute spot with lots of variety. They carry more than just plants and flowers as I saw plenty of home decor and gift ideas. read more

I just had a similar experience as Stephanie L. Went to buy a few plants today. Website said "open". Gates were both open to their OUTSIDE area, so I put on my mask and walked in. Heard a man shouting behind me, "hey...hey....HEY!" Older man drove up on his forklift and yelled, "YOU CAN'T COME IN HERE!" In a very rude manner. Then he mumbled something about "by appointment only". I reminded him that we were outside, this is an essential business, and there is no prohibition to serving me. He replied, "This is my business and I'll do what I please". Frankly, I agree. It is his business and he can do what he pleases. I, too, can do what I please. I'll be going to Moraga Nursery from now on. read more

10 years ago my ambition in life was dance every night in all the fashionable New York or L.A. clubs. Now...I am shopping for trees in Orinda for my very own garden! How is that for a stunning life re-evaluation and philosophical statement ?!!! Last month, I was angling for japanese maples and someone told me McDonnell has a bunch of them. A bunch? Not only they have a zillion of them, but they are very reasonably priced. Truly. And healthy nevertheless. And some way above the shrub stage; you can picture them in a jiffy settling in your backyard, all limbs and grace. I scoured the place a couple of times by myself, then brought the hubby for the final decision. We got great service at McD: trees were patiently moved in their pots to let us compare them side by side; trees were delivered to our East Bay address for a minimal fee, and trees arrived on schedule. I am now developing a wisterias, camelias, and hydrangeas ambition, and, hmmm, my immediate future could very well be dancing on the McDonnell grounds till I fill my garden to the brim..... read more

I showed up to buy herbs and vegetables for my garden. The nursery was clearly open with a few patrons shopping & the gate was open. Before I could get out of my car a male employee told me I needed to call my order in( how did he know I hadn't)? It was gruff and unfriendly. Sometimes you can't help but think we were being prejudged. My black husband patiently observed. I proceeded to call in the order as instructed, but no one answered the phone. So after a few attempts I approached the man to see if I could write down my order, or place it another way. "Just tell me what you want" he said. I began telling him,only to be cut off mid sentence telling me how difficult this was! He was very rude and I have never been treated like that. Being an RN I deal with people all day. I show them the utmost respect and care. It's sad to be treated poorly over purchasing herbs while trying to support local small businesses. read more

I'm pretty disappointed. I've been in here several times and the grounds are beautiful. They do have a lovely selection of Japanese Maples, and they are reasonably priced maples at that. Unfortunately, if you want to order anything they don't have on site, you're out of luck. They put you on a list in a book. Period. Maybe if one turns up some day, they might call you. Yeah, or not. I've done a lot of gardening in my life, in many different places, so I'm no stranger to nurseries. I was tremendously surprised that a small, family owned nursery in the heart of Lamorinda wouldn't say, "Sure, let me try to find that for you!" At least, maybe call a vendor or two? NOPE. Instead, I ordered online. Disappointing. They've lost a green-thumbed local resident. read more

I don't agree with the first reviewer that this nursery is small, in fact, it's quite large. They have a lot of pots, though I was not impressed with the range of pots - they were mostly terracota. And a very large selection of roses. There were some interesting perennials available here that I had not seen in other local nurseries. As far as customer service, I was asked multiple times while I was walking around if I needed any help, which was nice, but when I brought my purchases up and thought that one of my plants was a different price than they said it was, I was met with a rude "no." They didn't even offer to check the price. Just "no." It can also be a little hard to get out of the parking lot. read more

Small But Very Pleasant I don't usually travel in this direction (Moraga Way alone is a tiring drive) but this is small but pleasant place. Typically I find nurseries a nice place to walk around and unwind, and to get caught up in the itch to spend some time outside productively gardening. Nice array of plants; I love Japanese maples and they always seem to have a respectable selection. This isn't a place to come for a bargain, but the quality is there, and I think the items are priced fairly. A very pleasant garden store with interesting, aesthetically pleasing things. I've always found the sales personnel quite nice and helpful. When I do drive by I find the car being pulled into McDonnell, whether I can afford the time or not. Actually I only fail to stop when I simply don't have the time. This is a nice little oasis. read more

Waste of time and gas visiting this nursery. Looking for a particular ground cover plant I had previously called to see if they had in stock. The staff person informed me that he couldn't stop to help me and pointed vaguely to where I might find the plants. I couldn't find them and was leaving the nursery when he said they could order anything I wanted. At which point I said I couldn't find his stock and if he wold show me where they were perhaps I'd know what to order. He reiterated that he didn't have time to show me at which point I left. read more

They're pricey but they seem very nice and helpful. Bought a lil plant and the lady helped pot and added in soil for me. It's a lovely addition to my family of plants. Happy to support a local nursery. read more

My husband and I found this nursery on accident and are quite happy we did. They have a lovely selection of healthy indoor and outdoor plants that are reasonably priced. Surprisingly enough they had a small variety of healthy tillandsia (air plants). They had small/large sized plants for a great price. There is also a nice selection of succulent/cactus both in size and variety. The service nice too. Very kind, knowledgable, and helpful. I highly recommend checking this place out. read more

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I was going to buy flowers for my kid. As I was going to the store, I notice that the two older men(who I think are the owners of the shop)that worked there were cursing at a young boy just standing near the parking lot. The boy was just minding his own business. I think he was waiting for someone. Telling him to leave their property and threatening to cut something. What kind of adult does that? Two grown men(50+ years)against one young boy. No matter how upset you are, I don't think you should threaten a young boy. I'm appalled on how these 2 grown men treated somebody who could've been a future customer. They are so rude to people. I wish I could put zero stars but that wasn't an option. I'm all for supporting family owned businesses but with this kind of treatment, they are not getting my business. read more

McDonnell Nursery is located on Moraga Way in Orinda. It is a reasonable option if you're looking for plants, gardening supplies, etc. The nursery is very well organized, reasonably stocked, and the staff is very helpful. However, it is very pricey! My fiance is a gardener and he was horrified at how expensive certain plants were! read more

I purchased a small $50 redwood tree in Dec. 2019. It was thriving until the heat wave and smoke from the CA fires began in August. The tree was not established enough to survive. Even my 60+ year old oaks suffered. I called to find out if I could exchange the tree or get store credit, and the man with whom I spoke told me it was my fault the tree died. He then added that he has never heard of a warranty on plants. I told him a number of nurseries in the area have a one year warranty on plants, and he told me I should shop those nurseries in the future. I will go somewhere else, but I was disappointed by the service I received from McDonnell. read more

The whole team is wonderful and knowledgeable. Thank you so much for providing, my father and us with quality plants.

McDonnell Nursery is fairly small, but seem to have quality plants. However, in the three visits I have made there, the staff have been cold and rude. I would much rather spend a little more and have a larger selection to choose from at Orchard Nursery where the staff have been much friendlier. The prices are not much cheaper at McDonnell to make it worth dealing with the staff. read more

I went here today to purchase a plant for my birthday and the staff was very helpful! There are a few gardeners/workers in blue shirts out in the plants watering and whatnot when I went, and as soon as I saw one he asked if I needed any help. One very informative and helpful man ended dealt with me changing my mind about a billion times on what kind of plant I wanted (from blueberry, to strawberry, to oranges, etc). We ended up getting a Meyer Lemon Tree for $49.95 (no tax) and he rung us up, wrapped the tree up, and loaded it in our car. Overall a very pleasant experience. I'm still excited about my new tree! read more

I love flowers and it seems I'm always buying them. But I'm terrible at remembering the names. So I can go to this nursery and describe the flower and Susie always can tell me the name! She never is irritated with my forgetfulness and I think she's actually entertained by this "game". Their flowers are well maintained, and if I choose one that is less than, she advises me not to select it. It is true that you'll need to make a special order if you want a lot of the same one, but she always offers to do so and will call to make sure the grower has them in stock. For these reasons I return here although I know I could get better prices elsewhere. But I much rather shop at a nursery where the staff are friendly and very knowledgeable and have creative ideas what will grow well under our local conditions. My kind of nursery. read more