T&M Apple Tree - How would you feel, is this par for the course?

[gardening_gal]

I've just received the patio Golden Delicious tree I had ordered from Thompson & Morgan.

I can't say I'm impressed tbh. I would not buy this if I saw it in a garden centre. All the leaves bar 2 look unhealthy and have been affected by something. The close ups show the damage.

There is tiny bud at the top of the plant but it too looks brown.

I'd be glad of opinions? Is this the kind of condition online plants usually arrive in? Was I being too expectant?

[Guest]

I wouldn't be happy. There are no nice light shoots coming through for this time of year and IMO I think the tree looks quite weak overall. Yes leaves can get tatty through packing and posting but I would expect to see a bit more life in it.

[Greenleaves]

I no longer use them as I think their quality is way below that of others.

[gardening_gal]

Thank you both. I intend to contact them about this but not having ever ordered this type of tree/plant online before I just wanted to be sure I was being fair in my assessment of it.

[Elfeda]

I too have recieved blighty plant. took a picture, will contact them asap.

[Martin H]

My experiences from on-line buying are mixed. In general I've found that specialist nurseries do a better job of quality control, effective packaging and reliable delivery than the big generalist companies manage.

In your case, "I would not buy this if I saw it in a garden centre" is completely accurate and a valid reason to ask for compensation.

[Bigmallly]

Not a very good advert for T&M is it?..............no doubt someone will be along to ask for your account details etc..............not good enough IMO.

[vixylix]

T&M are pants... although they do put out some tempting offers... it generally seems to be not worth it!!

I'll be interested to see if you get a refund / replacement - so far I have found their customer service severely lacking!

[Tomatoe]

I bought 3 Apple and a Pear from T&M last year which looked the same, they are doing really well this year. Give it time and dont worry

[Stan79]

I would be asking them for a replacement tree. Send them the pics and use your quote, "I would not buy this if I saw it in a garden centre." as it think that sums it up perfectly.

Ideally they would then send you a healthier, better looking specimen and you can plant both and see how the first one gets on. If all goes well, you end up with two trees. If it doesn't, the new replacement should be ok!

[gardening_gal]

I emailed them this morning and included the pictures. No reply yet but I'll let you all know what happens.

[Greenleaves]

Thompson and Morgan often read messages on here as they are a member. Fingers crossed someone will respond soon.

[21up]

I no longer use them as I think their quality is way below that of others.

Hi greensleaves that is my opinion too i ordered sweet pea 12 inch for baskets and got 6 foot ones as they had run out half or more of them are dead now.
hope the tree goes well but i would not be happy
Idont use them now plenty more suppliers around.

[4390evans]

I order quite a bit from T&M and all so far has been brilliant, Ive ordered bedding, perenials and fruits bushes all all are looking fab. Lets just hope its a one off

[ThompsonMorgan]

Hi gardening_gal,

Richard from T&M Customer Care here. Thanks for your posts.

I'd like to take care of getting your tree replaced for you if I may?

(As correctly predicted by Bigmally) I'll need to ask you to respond to this post with your order reference number &/or your email reference number (e.g. TM1234567X) - as soon as I have these details I can arrange a replacement.

Alternatively, you're very welcome to phone (0333 400 0033) on either weekend day and ask for me. I'll be very happy to personally resolve any issues.

I shall wait to hear back from you.

My best regards,

Richard