BETTY'S AZALEA RANCH

.

This review is to modify the poor review we previously filed regarding the workmanship  and longevity of our stone stairway and retaining walls. 

The construction crew, under new management, admitted that the job that had been previously done was faulty and after some negotiation, agreed to replace the stairs and walls for a small portion of the total cost of the job.

WHAT A DIFFERENCE!  Everything about the job and the crew was highly professional.  Within a little over a week's time (including a day or two of rain), the job was completed. The stonework was superb - 100% better than it was the first time.Virtually no plants and/or shrubs were destroyed; the flowerbeds were cleaned, as was the front walkways; debris was carted away, and even the lawn and driveway was cleaned up. We are extremely pleased with all the work that was done, and would highly recommend Betty's to do stone work.  A friend, when seeing the job Betty's had done, decided to follow up with them to do some work for her.

 

In July 2000, Betty's installed 5 slate-veneer stone retaining walls in our front yard and a 8-stepped stone staircase from our driveway to back yard totaling  $7,260; and provided a landscape plan and executed the plan with trees and plants totaling $6,391 for a total of $13,651. 

Our sense was that Betty's used their staff for the landscaping portion, but jobbed out the hardscape portion to another contractor.

Initially we were pleased with the landscaping, although our major  requirement was that the plantings be no to low maintenance was not followed. In fact, the extensive use of carpet roses, for example, require a significant amount of maintenance throughout the spring and summer.  Per the contract agreement, the plants that died within the first year were satisfactorily replaced. 

The major issue we have is with the quality of the work and the lack of quality of the materials used for the hardscapes. Problems emerged within the first year with major cracks developing in the retaining walls that required major excavation and replacement of portions, yet, the walls have again cracked (see photos). Additionally, the top capped slates of the walls have razor-sharp edges and many of them have fallen off (see photos).

 

The worst problem has been with the most expensive part of the hardscape job - the staircase,  (see photos). Within the first year, water seepage from an unknown source started leaving lime traces all over the lower stairs.  Apparently, no drainage was ever provided for any accumulated water under the stairs.  Also, the concrete mixed on site was apparently poorly done. According to 5 other hardscape contractors (which have reviewed the job over the years, the consensus is that the mortar that was used was mixed  improperly and has not been able to provide adequate adhesion of the stones on the steps and fascia.  At this time, the stairway is totally a hazard and can't be safely used. 

 

We have sought estimates from other contractors, as well as Betty's Azalea Ranch over the last few months. Betty's sent a new management employee on April 16 to our home to review the hardscape problems and to give us an estimate of the repair/replacement costs..  He said that he  was visiting a number of jobs previously done by Betty's that were in need of repair or replacement.  He promised us an estimate within a week, and stated that Betty's "Welcomed the opportunity to make the job right and to do it correctly", which we were glad to hear. We understood that there would likely be costs to us that we were willing to pay, so we weren't looking for a free job.  What really amazed us, is after several additional calls and promises that an estimate would be provided, yet to receive any response. 

Based on our latest experience with Betty's, they seem to lack any desire to deliver a quality product.

 

I would not recommend Bettys Azalea Ranch.  Sadly, they did a job for us about 6 years ago that went very well so we decided to not even bid out this project we simply went right back to Betty's.  The hardscape did go well but the landscape did not.  The plants were not of a good quality and, in fact, they replaced many of them because they put dying plants in that looked horrible.  They planted the wrong size bushes and had to take them out and then put dead ones in their place (in the front of my home).  Then they told me they couldn't get any more of that bush so I would have to wait until spring.  I felt like I was the foreman on the job.  I had to call multiple times to have three different people come out to my home.  Not only did I invest money but lots of my time.  Their prices are too high, too.  It is insulting to see your price list and on a trip out to the nursery realize they are on sale much cheaper.  I am really sad that it did not work out and after spending a lot of time and money I still have to go to another landscaper to finish the work.  At least one person at Betty's did acknowledge that the job was done poorly - when I asked how they might make it up to me they kindly drew up additional plans to improve my yard for an additional $1,700 - seriously????  No effort to keep me as a customer.  I am done with them.

They focus more as a local garden center, and I would recommend them to others. They have a a very nice selection and are very nice folks. I definitely prefer them over other competitors in the local area. Betty’s has everything that you would need.

Betty's Azaela Ranch was GREAT! Renata was our designer and managed our project. She did a terrific job planning our space and working with our budget. The cost for the plan was only $75, and she came to our house, listened to us, and in less than a week she presented a design layout that was detailed, to scale, and looked great. Renata was warm and personable and definitely knew her stuff (great knowledge of plants and landscaping!). She gave us the low-maintenance terrific looking landscaping we wanted at a price we could afford. After meeting Renata at Betty's and looking at the plan, she took us through the nursery and showed us each of the proposed plants-- and she was very flexible in letting us pick from various options, explaining the pros and cons of each. She was terrific to work with, and answered my ongoing questions over the next couple of weeks, and gave us all the guidance and information we needed (as non-plant people). The workers were on time, and despite inclement weather during the days they worked, they still finished as expected, even working in light rain at times. They left our yard looking terrific! When we noticed that a bush wasn't at just the right distance from the others in the front, they promptly returned and moved the bush. The plants are also guaranteed for a year, so if any die they come and replace them. The outcome was amazing and was quite a transformation to the front and side of our house. We've had many positive comments, and we couldn't be happier with the outcome ourselves. We felt we got a lot of terrific landscaping and a beautiful retaining wall for the price we paid, and would go back to Betty's in a heartbeat when we have another area to do (maybe the back yard and a new patio will be next!). It's funny; we looked at Angie's list AFTER we had already started working with Betty's and noticed some negative reviews --but the complaints were about different things than the type of work we had Betty's do for us. My brother had recommended Betty's to us-- he had used them several years back and had a great experience at a very good price ---which is why we chose them before even checking Angie's list. We are really pleased that we used Betty's and definitely recommend them!

We were pleased with them. For plant materials, the quality is good and their prices are reasonable. Their staff is very helpful. We are going to go back to them.

The job took several weeks to complete when they stated 3-4 days and they left all of the plants out in pots in the weather for 3 weeks. Over 40 plants are now dead and the company wants to wait until spring to see what lived before they will address the issue. On a positive note, they did design a great plan....just very poorly executed.

This summer the tree started dropping needles.  We contacted Betty's to come look at the tree since it was still under warranty.  They did not return our repeated calls.  We finally contacted someone live at the front desk of the retail store and explained that we were being avoided by their landscaping department and wanted a return call from the manager.  The woman who runs the landscaping department finally called us back.  We asked for someone to come look at the tree.  We then received a call indicating that they came to look at the tree and since the tree wasn't dead -- the wouldn't help.  Due to the expense of the tree and its poor condition we asked that a manager come out or speak with us.  We received another call back indicating that another person had come to our house to look at the tree, yes the tree was sick -- no they couldn't tell us what was wrong -- and no they would not help us any further.  So now I have a very expensive sick tree in my front yard.  Please don't purchase any products of any significant value from Betty's or you will be as sorry as we are for ever shopping there.

THE COMPANY DID NOT STAND BEHIND WHAT THEIR EMPLOYEES TOLD US REGARDING THE DELIVERY.  
SPECIFICALLY, during the purchase/s - three different employees volunteered that the trees if we prepared holes they would be put the trees in the holes since it was a "2 man delivery."  However on the morning of the delivery I were told that they do not put the trees in the holes.  Thus, I immediately contacted the company to explain the situation.    Upon contact, we were told by "Patty" that  Steve Cockerham, the President of Betty's, said there would be NO EXCEPTION and they would NOT put any tree in a hole without an additional charge.  IT WAS INSINUATED THAT WE MISUNDERSTOOD.      There was NO  misunderstanding on our part - three different employees volunteered the information when we asked about delivery.  We were a little  surprised at this but very pleased as the weight of the trees were probably about 200-400 pounds each (as estimated by their employees).    It amazes me that the company would not have an exception after I explained what were told.   
***THE ABOVE CONFIRMS A PREVIOUS REVIEW BY ANOTHER ANGIE MEMBER ABOUT THE RUDENESS OF THIS COMPANY.   

• Following is the sequence of events from the sale to the morning of the delivery.   PLEASE NOTE THE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IN THE SECOND PARAGRAPH THAT FOLLOWS:  

 

•      We initially purchased 1 crepe myrtle tree at 30 percent off.  At the time we selected the tree, we asked about delivery charges and what that included.  We were told that since it is a 2-man delivery for the tree we selected that if we had a hole dug, they would put the tree directly in the hole for us.  So we purchased the tree at the sale price and agreed to a $90 delivery charge.  We were also quite pleased that they would put the tree in the hole if we had it prepared.

     After additional consideration and upon finding out that the delivery charge ($90) was for a full truck load, we decided to purchase two additional crepe myrtles.   We returned about a week later following the initial purchase and politely asked if they would be willing to give us the sale price on 2 additional crepe myrtles.  Rather than replying in a courteous manner,  the manager replied very curtly "NO!  WE DON'T DO THAT."  We were completely taken back by the rudeness and just left.  

     We wanted to purchase the additional trees from another nursery but really did not want to incur another delivery charge. So we decided to wait until spring.  However,a short time late and before our delivery the   trees did go on sale.  Thus, we decided to purchase the additional 2 in order get the sale price and no additional charge for deliver.  (The additional events of this morning is conveyed in the opening paragraph).  

    We will give the company credit for being flexible about the delivery date.  We explained that we were having work done in our yard  that would have interfered with the delivery so they said we could call when we were ready.  Thereafter, we set a date, but changed it when we purchased the 2 additional trees, mentioning to the cashier that we would like to have the holes prepared. There was no comment on the part of the employee regarding our statement about having the holes ready.
*** WE DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS COMPANY - THE MANAGEMENT IS RUDE AND CLEARLY NOT INTERESTED IN MAINTAINING GOOD RELATIONS WITH THEIR CUSTOMERS ***

Kevin, their landscape architect, is a true professional with many years of experience.  He came up with an innovative and beautiful landscaping plan for us that enhanced our outdoor living space.  The Sidewalk and stonewalls turned out beautiful. The french drain is a real life saver and successfully keeps the water out of our yard.  It took us two years to complete the plan as we opted to do it in increments.  We had a few plants die in last summers long drought but this year Betty's replenished those plants and we are very pleased with the outcome.  Both yards are real eye catchers and the plants are thriving.  The head of the crew that performed the work was very professional and coordinated everything with Kevin.  If things needed to be changed or redone they were very cooperative and did so without any extra expense to us.  We are very satisfied with Betty's and would not hesitate to recommend them to our friends.

The entire delivery was full of pieces of torn up plastic bags and other refuse. We had paid top dollar for good quality mulch and received garbage. I called Betty's and was told that there was nothing they could do. I drove to the store and was told that there was nothing that could be done, but they appreciated that I let them know.

HUH?  "Oh, our product stinks and you're unhappy? Well, we're not going to resolve your problem, but we do appreciate you letting us know..."

I won't spend another dime with this company and I would warn anyone that is thinking about Betty's to RUN! RUN! RUN! Merrifields is only a mile down the road. 

We had a Betty's design person come to the house to design a front yard plan. He has something like 25 years of experience and provided a plan that my husband and I both liked. He helped us figure out what items would be best for Betty's to carry our and which we could do on our own to save us money. We had Betty's plant 11 trees and shrubs. They outlined the beds and laid down mulch. And then they did a dry stream bed. I was a little worried that Betty's selected all the plants. But they were all in terrific shape. And they picked the bloom colors we had agreed upon I really liked how they worked with us. It rained the day the workers came out and my husband and I could clearly see that the bed would not be long enough. The workers called the designer and on the spot he instructed them to lengthen the bed at the cost of the stones, which was about $75. I think we had already paid for the labor for the day. That's my guess. They didn't mess with us to double the cost of the bed. They had maybe 5 guys do the work. The supervisor had been with Betty's for something like 15 years. They were pros. We had one mishap. The big truck moved into the mailbox and twisted the wood connections. They went to Home Depot, got the right wood, cut it. And fixed the mailbox good as new. I never said anything to Betty's because the crew took care of it and made sure I was satisfied. One of the 12 items they planted died. I called them and they put the replacement on their schedule. I also asked for advice as to whether we should select a different plant. The landscape office gave me the designer's cell phone number and in a minute he was giving me advice. I didn't need to be home for the new shrub. One day it just appeared and AT NO COST TO ME.. I trust Betty's. They are pros. I like their prices. They are definitely my nursery.

2 of the trees had a fair number of leaves - the other 2 did not. One of the staff said that this was not a problem and that they should leaf out soon. By June 1, 2 trees are OK - the other 2 trees never put out any leaves and are dead. Betty's has a "Shared Responsibility" guarantee that limits their responsibility to 50%. This is fine assuming the plants were in good shape when sold. However, since the 2 trees were apparently dead/dying when sold, I felt that they should replace the trees. I emailed them about this problem and never got a reply. I called them and they said they would get back to be the next day - they never did. On the phone I was told that I must have killed the trees. I was also asked why I would buy dead trees. I was told that they would leaf out shortly by a member of Betty's staff. My question is why does Betty's sell dead trees?

They planted the wrong color azaleas and the replacement dogwood tree that did not look healthy ultimately died. They replaced one azalea and reneged on responsibility for the dead tree. We contacted the company over 15 times about the tree and followed their instructions. When the tree died, they were rude and hung up on me. It will cost us over $1000 to repair the damage.

My experiences were not bad but they were a little weak on holding to a schedule. They had good workmanship and I am satisfied overall. Their prices were medium to high.

Beety's does a great job of providing plants for our local area and weather. The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly.