The scoop on 'Horizon Herbs, LLC'

Company Profile   Horizon Herbs, LLC Mailing Address: P.O. Box 69 Williams, Oregon 97544 (United States) Phone: (541) 846-6704 Fax: (541) 846-6233 Paper Catalog Cost: $2 » E-Mail them » Visit their website Recent reviews: Past month Past 6 Months Past 12 Months Positive 0 18 21 Neutral 0 0 0 Negative 0 1 1 This company offers a variety of seeds. This company specializes in: Plants: Herbs Seeds: Herbs Other helpful information: Signed Safe Seed Pledge

Company Comment, posted on October 19, 2002:   We are certified organic seed growers in Williams, Oregon, with over 700 species of medicinal herbs on our land. We grow things that are hard to find elsewhere--Turkey Rhubarb, Mandrake, White Sage, Virginia Snakeroot, Red Trillium, Eleuthero Ginseng, Echinacea tennesseensis, etc., etc., as well as the majority of "tried and true" medicinals (Valerian, Elecampane, Marshmallow, etc.) We have a website at horizonherbs.com, our popular seed catalog is available by request, and we have written several in-depth books about growing and using medicinal herbs. We are gardeners, artists and scientists, focusing strongly on identity and quality of our seeds. Our motto is "Sowing seeds worldwide for the benefit of people, plants and the planet." Best regards, Richo Cech

Feedback History and Summary   65 positives No neutrals 2 negatives

Comments:

Rating Author Content Positive The_Innkeeper Jacksonville, OR (1 review) October 15, 2009 I've ordered numerous times from Horizon Herbs, and have always been thoroughly happy with the quality of product I received. Their selection of seeds, plants, and literature is incredibly impressive, and I was hard-pressed to find a similar company elsewhere (thus my joy when I DID discover the wonder that is Horizon Herbs!). My husband and I visited the nursery one week day to pick up some seeds and take a tour, and the employees were all very friendly. I have heard people complain about their HH seeds not germinating, but I have to say that I have never had this experience. I have experienced LOW germination on one or two occasions, but at least some plants always came up (and generally I find HH seeds to be almost explosive in their germination within the first few days of planting!). I think many people don't understand that patience and a knowledge of a particular seed's quirks are necessary for successful germination. Most times, the germination hints are in the seed catalog, so you simply need to refer to that before planting! All in all, I have to say that I am pretty much a life time customer of Horizon Herbs. Positive meleabritt Albion, IN (Zone 5b) (1 review) October 06, 2009 i've ordered seeds from horizon several times now, and have purchased reading and resource materials from them as well. every interaction has been positive: i have enjoyed prompt receipt of seeds and books, kind & attentive customer service, a fantastic selection of extremely high quality seeds, excellent written material, and great plants sprouting all over my little home & garden, thanks to their top-notch growing & seed saving practices. this is the first place i go for medicinal and culinary herbs, and i look forward to ordering plants from them once i get some new beds made. i am deeply appreciative of horizon's socially & ecologically responsible practices, and know that i can trust them to provide me & my family with high quality, organic, responsibly sourced plant friends. Positive JGex Commerce, GA (1 review) October 04, 2009 Though I have ordered seeds and books from Horizon Herbs the last couple of years, I had never ordered live plants from them partially because of the distance the plants would have to travel to Georgia. Due to the difficulty in locating some plants locally or even in my region, I placed an order for 24 live plants with Horizon last month. I was extremely pleased with how smoothly the entire process went. Horizon's customer service is one of the best I've ever encountered. When my plants arrived, I was doubly pleased at not only the care that had been taken in packaging them for shipping, but also at how strong and sturdy these little plants were. Having worked in the nursery business, I could tell how much love and care went into growing them. I will order plants again!!! Positive dirtgirl2 Rickreall, OR (1 review) September 29, 2009 Every time I receive a shipment from Horizon herbs I feel I am receiving a beloved member of their family. The live plants I ordered were obviously packed with the utmost care and arrived in great shape and with very specific planting instructions for each. The seeds I ordered have proven to be quite viable and my herb garden is thriving. The amount of detailed information on their website was quite helpful and easy to use-there is a story for almost every plant and the stories come from their own relationship with those plants-not just as a reseller. As an organic farmer and herbalist, I have purchased seeds and plants for years from many companies around the world and I feel that Horizon offers the best plant materials and seeds that I have found. They also offer rare and endangered plants that many companies do not offer. I recommend Horizon Herbs to anyone that is looking for high quality plants and fabulous customer service. Positive alrexrandra Vancouver, WA (1 review) September 28, 2009 Horizon Herbs is an excellent company! Each time I buy anything from them, I'm so excited. The seeds come really quickly and the prices are very very reasonable. I love that they propagate everything themselves and organically! I only use seeds from them, because I know exactly where everything is coming from and that everything is grown with loving and careful energy, which really makes a difference in how the plant grows. The website is really easy to use, too. They have so many different plants, it's impossible to just buy a few things. I love Horizon Herbs and I recommend it to every herb lover and gardener I know. Positive borged Thomasville, GA (Zone 8b) (6 reviews) September 23, 2009 I ordered a single pack of comfrey seeds on 9/17/09 and rec'd them on the east coast on 9/21/09. The seeds were packed well, sealed in a standard paper envelope which was sealed in a small plastic bag. The website stated 10 seeds per packet but there was at least double that in the pack. Also included was their catalog. I'll report later on germination rate. These seeds are being started indoors under grow lights. Company representative comment on September 23, 2009: On Sep 23, 2009 7:09 AM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Borged, Thank you very much for the positive vote which we appreciate more than you can know. A couple of small things--we are really trying to reduce our plastic footprint so the little bag that we heat-seal around our paper packet is actually cellophane (made from cellulose) not plastic. Also its fine if you start the comfrey under grow lights--it will be likely to give reasonalble germination in 10 to 30 days--but for best results put the seeds in moist (not wet) medium in the fridge for 30 days before planting. This makes them jump! Richo Positive desertsage Rodeo, NM (3 reviews) September 13, 2009 I have ordered seeds from Horizon herbs for a couple of years and always had more than my expectations filled. In fact it was not unusual to have a free pack sent with your order with a thank you and smiley face. I wanted some plants they had available that I wanted. Being from the bootheel of New Mexico and shipping plants in September, I was a bit worried. But to no surprise I received my order in three days in perfect condition. I planted my plants and the root ball was firm, but not growing out the bottom. Thanks Horizon herbs. Positive pthomson (1 review) September 08, 2009 I'm absolutely thrilled with the customer service offered by Horizon Herbs. Richo Cech graciously answered a couple of emails before I purchased a packet of Western Skunk Cabbage seeds. After I mailed my request, the packet arrived quickly. I was surprised (and pleased) to discover that Mr. Cech had also included two (free) seedlings with my order. Company representative comment on September 11, 2009: On Sep 10, 2009 9:58 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Thanks. More info on germination of the slow and otherwise recalcitrant seeds of marsh, meadow, forest and plain is given in my new book "The Medicinal Herb Grower." Richo Positive SambucusNigra (1 review) August 23, 2009 I have been dealing with Horizon Herbs now for many years. My experience with everyone on staff has been exceptional year after year. I grow many hard to find herbs and prepare my own tinctures. The support and assistance that I have received from Richo, Becca and Mayche demonstrates the true passion that we all share for our love of the land. I have spoken directly with Richo, and he has also answered detailed e-mails through the years, always supportive and passionate to share his insight. I consider Horizon Herbs to be the best source for information, hard to find exceptional seed, and glorious plants, year after year. I give them my highest recommendation, and a huge Thank You! for all of the information and support through the years. Thank You all at Horizon Herbs! SambucusNigra Company representative comment on August 23, 2009: On Aug 23, 2009 3:52 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Hello SambucusNigra, Anyone with that name is close to our hearts. What a glorious plant! Richo Positive pinki_herbstuf Claxton, GA (1 review) August 22, 2009 I've always been interested in rare and unusual herbs, and always had a difficult time finding seed until I found Horizon Herbs a few years ago. What a fantastic selection! All of the orders I,ve placed were sent quickly, and the folks who took my phone orders were both pleasant and helpful. I couldn't ask for better service. My copy of the Horizon Herb catalog gets to looking pretty ragged by the end of the season, because I carry it with me as a constant reference. Horizon Herbs has helped me become a better herb grower, and I thank you for that. Richo,keep up all the good work you do, and many blessings to the Cech family. Pinki Company representative comment on August 22, 2009: On Aug 22, 2009 5:07 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Hi Pinki, Thanks for the feedback! We have a policy of changing out our seed as soon as the new seed is germ tested and approved. We also have a policy of sending our best plant first, but like your horizon herbs catalog, some of the plants can start looking like that catalog you described (or they can get even bigger and better, you never know!) Anyhow we happen to know you're an excellent grower, and bottom line what you need is a good root, and you can grow it up from there! Richo Positive commanderkibble Fort Pierce, FL (2 reviews) August 22, 2009 they have a large selection of hard to find medicinal herbs. always helpful and always ready to help. seeds and plants come when they say. always my first place to look for herbs. always have had a great experience with them. a definite must see and look for all of your medicinal plants. Dawn Company representative comment on August 22, 2009: On Aug 22, 2009 11:20 AM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Dawn, Thanks very much for the support. Nature is diverse and doesn't always conform to our human plans, but if we've managed to get you items at a good time of year, it means you ordered according to the seasons. That really improves your chances of success! Richo Positive edieviolin Portland, OR (1 review) August 19, 2009 I know Horizon Herbs offers the highest quality medicinal herb seeds on the market, and their customer service is both efficient and friendly. I highly recommend their new book "The Medicinal Herb Grower" which the famous herbalist Christopher Hobbs has called "The best gardening book on the planet!" Company representative comment on August 19, 2009: On Aug 19, 2009 7:18 AM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Thanks e-violin we are very excited about this book, also, which has been a decade-long labor of love. Richo Positive ecoherbs_com Talent, OR (1 review) August 19, 2009 I have had too many good experiences with Horizon Herbs that I would quickly run out of room to write them. But I will just share that the level of integrity and quality of plant and seed material you get from them is the best around. I think i first found out about horizon herbs from there seed rack at the Arcata, ca food -coop. Then i read making plant medicine and starting learning the art of growing your own. I module my small farm after many of the clever gardening techniques Richo creates. I have sent many customers over to there farm and inspired them to plant more diversity too. Everyday i walk outside and see many favorite flowering herbs from this great propagation/preservation Mecca. Go visit the farm if you can its well worth it. And if you get to pick Richo's wise brain while your at it, consider yourself blessed. Im not sure why i waited so long to write a comment, sometimes you just forget to say thank you publicly. Long live Horizon Herbs, and our access to these great healing medicinal plants. All the best, Kalesh Company representative comment on August 19, 2009: On Aug 19, 2009 7:16 AM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Dear EcoHerbs, Thanks for the kind words and may your gardens prosper. Richo Positive johncarver Bringhurst, IN (1 review) August 17, 2009 I have purchased several times from Horizon Herbs in the last couple of years. This year I was late ordering do to the terrible weather we had here and I only ordered some books and some American comfrey seeds. When I opened the package, which I received in a timely manner, the printed matter that I had ordered was there along with my seeds but there was an extra package of seeds. In a letter Mr. Cech said he was sending me my seeds that I had ordered and was also sending seeds from a different batch of American Comfrey as customers had mentioned having germination problems with the comfrey seeds and he asked me if I would plant both batches of seed and report back to him. He explained how they planted the seeds at Horizon and then said if I found it to be too complicated to just plant them in the garden as I normally would.and then he said if I found that to be too much hassle and too complicated to just plant my seeds and enjoy them and not to worry about a report. I couldn't let such generosity go like that so I planted the seeds in pots, monitored the germination rate and time and did make a report back to the company with my results. He did find that conditions in the field were different than those in his greenhouse and was happy to find out why some customers were having problems with germination. I was happy to have helped out in his experiment and I got extra plants out of the deal. A real win-win situation to my mind. Great company to do business with. John Carver A happy customer. Company representative comment on August 17, 2009: On Aug 17, 2009 3:38 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: John, Yes, that was a fun experiment that worked even better than I thought it would. Thanks for your help on that. Your experiment showed that germination on the Symphytum officinalis took three times longer on the porch than in the greenhouse. The eventual germination percent was about the same, though, at 85% in your experiments and 90% in mine. My guess is that ungerminated seed could still come up the next year, as this is a plant that exhibits some wild characteristics. Just as an aside, later, I also found out that 30 days of cold, moist conditions prior to planting in a warm place can increase the speed of germination and the germination percentage. May your comfrey grow and thrive! Richo Positive flaherblady Stuart, FL (1 review) August 17, 2009 Hi All, I have been completely satisfied with anything I have ever purchased from Horizon Herbs.All of Richo's books have been a wealth of information,as well as constant "go to" reference books for any herbal concocting I am involved with. And their catalog! A whole page could be written about how full of information it is. The seed purchases have been wonderful as well,the germination rate have all been right on the money, the plants have thrived,even here in hot and humid South Florida. And what an awesome selection! It is just wonderful to deal with such a knowledgeable family run company.These folks really care about the earth and it shows in everything they do. I had the pleasure of meeting the Cech family at an Herbal gathering this summer,and all I can say is WOW! They are as awesome as you could imagine,such great herbal experience,friendly and caring folks.No question asked was too small or simple for them.They were totally accessible and down to earth. I hope they continue their work at Horizon Herbs for a long time to come so we can continue to plant their seeds and share in their wisdom. Company representative comment on August 17, 2009: On Aug 17, 2009 3:42 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Fl Herb Lady, Yes, that was a great gathering of crazy herbal folks and we enjoyed ourselves immensely. I saw Lobelia growing in the wild along a forested path, and then a few hundred feet further on (up, actually!) came across a nice cushy mound of Partridge Berry. What a treat! It was a long trip but totally worth it! May your gardens crisp up in uncharacteristically cool and moist mornings. Richo Positive osmosis Vancouver Canada (1 review) August 17, 2009 Hi, My company, Osmosis International in Vancouver, Canada is very pleased to work with Horizon Herbs. Our experience with their Customer Service is very positive. Our orders have been timely processed and our questions promptly answered. On many occasions I e-mailed them asking their expert opinion on herbal extracts, for example, and I had my questions answered within the hour. Mr. Richo, thank you for being there anytime I needed your expertise. Horizon Herbs cares for its customers. Company representative comment on August 17, 2009: On Aug 17, 2009 3:33 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Hello Osmosis, People in the healing professions have a kinship because they keep one thing in mind--they are all dedicated to alleviating suffering. Careful atttention to detail lessens the potential to cause harm and increases the power of the good. We're glad to answer short questions about extraction, and I want to personally thank you for keeping positive! Richo Positive esmith10 Pascagoula, MS (1 review) August 17, 2009 I love Horizon Herbs! They have a beautiful selection of wonderful herbs and seeds and their customer service is excellent. Company representative comment on August 17, 2009: On Aug 17, 2009 3:30 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Dear ESMITH, Thank you for your kind words and we are happy to serve. Richo Negative Decius N/A Canada (1 review) August 14, 2009 I have ordered from Horizon Herbs for about two years. The products I receive are very good quality, sealed, and there are very few problems with the goods themselves as far as I can tell. However, I am no longer ever going to order from them again due to a horrific customer service experience that is not a unique event. Upon receiving my package the USPS postage clearly said "$1" on it, and that is how much USPS charges if that is what is listed on the postage. Upon checking I realized that I had paid over 9 dollars for shipping and politely contacted horizon for an explanation, and was open to this being an error on the part of USPS, myself, or horizon. I did not get a response. I queried again 2 weeks later. I got a one lined response telling me that they are sending a coupon in the mail. At this point I was irate and asked for a manager. No manager was provided. They then proceeded to try to explain why the cost was what it was, and to inform me that they don't care if they keep me as a customer because they have other "honest" customers. I know lots of people embelish stories to make themselves sound more righteous than they are, but in truth this is exactly what happened. I will never order from them again - they were completely unapologetic for ignoring my first email, not answering my question, and then being rude to top if off, as if I am trying to steal from them. My focus is and always is clarity and honesty - I don't care about the shipping cost, I paid it without thinking twice. It's this completely unapologetic and insulting customer service. Even if they offered me a full refund on the whole product I wouldn't take it at this point. It's not about money. Horrible, horrible customer service. I never heard from a manager and only dealt with one person who deals with online orders. Switching to a new company for my herbs. On August 15th, 2009, Decius added the following: "Decius claimed that a package that weighed 2 lbs sent airmail from the US to Canada only cost a dollar to ship. Actually, anyone who is familiar with airmail costs to Canada knows that this is impossible." Case in point - The founder of the company is publically calling me a liar and opportunist, chasing 8 dollars. It is indicative of my rating that a customer has to scan and upload an image to be taken seriously: http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/4381/img9931.jpg "However, Decius was upset, so upon hearing his complaint, we sent him a $5.00 coupon." No you did not - you ignored me for two weeks. It was after my second complaint that you sent a coupon without addressing my concern which is WHY I was charged the difference. "After further complaint, we refunded his card for the shipping cost minus the $1.00 that he felt was a fair charge." No you did not. This was what your customer service representative sent me, after consulting you: "You will not get a refund and if this is your last order that's ok. We do not need your custom. We like our positive, honest customers who value our service and company. Please refrain from contacting us again with further negativity." "After further complaint, we refunded his card for the shipping cost minus the $1.00 that he felt was a fair charge." No, you didn't. You sent me an email about the refund and issued the refund shortly after I posted this complaint, not before. "Decius, I personally apologise for any rudeness you received from us, and I hope you will find it in your heart to nullify this negative vote on Dave's." How can you apologize to me when you've lied 3 times, called me a liar and opportunist yet again, and to top it all off now have proof that from the start you charged me 5 times the shipping cost of the item? You ignored my statement that I no longer want a refund and issued one anyways. Does it take a customer becomming so irate that they have to go and make a public complaint about you for you to stop calling them liars and thieves? The attitude of your company seems to have changed dramatically after this post of mine. I run two retail companies, and let me tell you - even if the customer is wrong, you find a way to make it right. You never, ever call the customer a liar, even if you think they are one. And in this case, you've called an honest loyal customer a liar and a thief, and run with your adamant unapologetic behaviour to this nasty point. On August 15th, 2009, Decius added the following: "real or imagined" - I need not further my complaints as in plain view we see the arrogance of this horrible company and its employees. Company representative comment on August 14, 2009: On Aug 14, 2009 1:05 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Decius claimed that a package that weighed 2 lbs sent airmail from the US to Canada only cost a dollar to ship. Actually, anyone who is familiar with airmail costs to Canada knows that this is impossible. However, Decius was upset, so upon hearing his complaint, we sent him a $5.00 coupon. After further complaint, we refunded his card for the shipping cost minus the $1.00 that he felt was a fair charge. Decius, I personally apologise for any rudeness you received from us, and I hope you will find it in your heart to nullify this negative vote on Dave's. Best regards, Richo (founder) On Aug 14, 2009 7:41 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC added: Actually, all coupons and refunds were issued prior to Decius's comments on Dave's. In addition, we have tendered our public apology for all transgressions, real or imagined. Richo Positive dirtygyrl Columbia, TN (4 reviews) July 04, 2009 I love the variety of herbal seeds! I 've ordered several, along with the hoe down veggie pack, and I've had the best germination rates. Lifeline prices can't be beat! I would definitely recommend this company to anyone interested in growing herbs, and will be ordering from them again. On August 1st, 2009, dirtygyrl added the following: I have to offer more praise for Horizon Herbs. I ordered some roots and plants, and they all arrived in excellent condition- the same care that's taken in growing them is also applied to shipping them- and that means a lot to the success of plants. I ordered an annual by mistake, so that was my own in experience, and it will probably succumb to frost before it ever matures! I HIGHLY recommend reading Richo's writings before planting anything- I've learned a lot. I was able to get echinacea (tennessee) seeds to germinate outside in a flat using a method he described....only "stratified" in the fridge for less than a month. I read about cross-pollination of echinacea, so I won't be making the mistake of planting a different species of echinacea next to this native plant. As he's said, the garden is a good teacher.....but read his writing first to get the low-down on growing herbs. Not only informative, full of experiences, and always the illustrations by his daughter that just make me happy to look at. Can't wait for the new book. Much love and peace to the Czech family! Positive JudyF Waukegan, IL (6 reviews) February 28, 2009 Horizon is one of my favorite sources for fun and unusual seeds. I have been ordering from them for several years, and with every order I have enjoyed fast, accurate service, and good germination as well. I have recommended this company to many of my friends, and all have had similar experiences. Positive fuchsiafreak Tualatin, OR (Zone 8a) (1 review) February 26, 2009 I have ordered from Horizon Herbs for several years now and have been happy with every transaction. They are always willing to help with any problem or question you may have. Because of them I have gone more into native plants and into growing more medicinal herbs. I highly recommend them to anyone who is interested in growing herbs and who is interested in preserving plants that once flourished here in N. America. I look forward to many years of ordering from them. Positive loydb Liberty Hill, TX (5 reviews) February 06, 2009 I'm a long-time culinary herb gardener new to medicinals (at least, medicinals that aren't also tasty...). I got a copy of R's book as well. The book is fantastic. Every seed I've started, germinated. I'm just biding time until it's warm enough to set them out! Fast turnaround from order to shipping as well, what's not to like? Now I'm eying that $700 hydraulic press... :) Company representative comment on February 06, 2009: On Feb 6, 2009 7:05 AM, Horizon Herbs, LLC responded with: Thanks very much for the positive review and the kind words. These kinds of things help more than you can know. I encourage you to reserve a pre-publication copy of my new book "the medicinal herb grower." As for every seed germinating, that is an unusually good result. As for culinary herbs, my favorite is Summer Savory. I use it daily, and cannot grow tired of it. Thanks again for your kind words and I bet you'll have a great garden this year. Best regards, Richo Positive Ficurinia Portland, OR (5 reviews) November 20, 2008 I am about to order seeds from this company again for only the second time and I wanted to rate them as "great" because every single thing I ordered last year had an amazing germination rate. (I ordered a lot.) In addition, they have a great selection of less common plants that should be planted in gardens by virtue of not only being great herbs, but because they are amazing plants. Cannot wait to grow their seeds again. Positive daveman Johnson City, TN (6 reviews) September 13, 2008 I placed an order last weekend and already received the seeds. They had more in the packet than what was printed on the label and the seeds look fresh and viable. I'll keep looking for more to order from this place. Positive treehugggr New Port Richey, FL (2 reviews) September 10, 2008 Been a Horizon fanatic for 5+ years now... I am utterly EXTATIC about Horizon Herbs! They are a family-run, American small business that uphold all the morals and virtues of organic gardening, bio-ethics, and ethical business practice. I have had the pleasure of speaking to Richo on occasion. Once I wrote an email with questions about two plants. I expected an email reply, but instead, I received an email AND a phone call! In this passing week Richo made accomodations to fill an order of two live plants, even though they were technically unavailable/out-of-season. My seeds come viable and result in success, my plants come healthy, and my inquiries are ALWAYS sufficiently addressed. They promote organics, bio-diversity, recycling/composting, and natural healing. The girls in the office are cool peeps who dont mind bs-ing with you on the phone. These are real people, folks! The catalog itself is a textbook for beginners and experienced growers. Horizon Herbs is a model for small American business. Im sure they are good at problem resolution, but I wouldn't know! :] Thank you, Horizon for serving me and my family so well! Thank you Daves Garden for providing this priceless forum. On December 30th, 2008, treehugggr added the following: Today, I ordered several species of hard-to-find plant seeds, at quite reasonable prices. I met Rebecca (sp) on the phone today. She is sweet and patient, and graciously put up with my meticulous details. As stated in my previous comment, Im an extatic fanatic! A Horizon fanatic, yes, and a Richo fanatic. As a child, I idolized Metallica and Motley Crue. Now, this 29-year-old kid puts activists like Richo on the pedestal. Last week, I called for advice on a very picky, stubborn plant that few people have ever heard of, knowing that Horizon Herbs (and 99.9781% of all others) does not and will not carry it, yet knowing that Richo may have some experince with it. In all his busy-ness, he answered the phone! I recieved not what Id call advice (that's a boring, stiff word for lawyers), but ground-shaking Wisdom from the heart. You wont understand this but, because of Richo's wisdom and my new enlightened-ment, I hung up the phone as a changed man. No, really. How do I illustrate the necessity of FAMILY-run business? Sena, his daughter, answers my calls and asks how my little boy is! How do I express the need for more folks to get dirty in the garden with our children, and grandchildren? Will we get back to our roots, or self-destruct in the main stream? Richo says,"As a way of fueling the rising up of a green, self-sufficient and non-violent revolution, lets grow the seeds of our children's future in our gardens NOW and teach by example. Please join us, beautiful people, in planting diverse open-pollinated and organic seeds." By patronizing Horizon, and sewing the seeds, and using the plants' products in your home, you too are activists! With the existance of Horizon, and the Wise, kind words of Richo, I am not just a gardener, I am my family's own grocer, apothecary, and healer. And Im an activist. ps, Horizon is not just Richo, it is a living entity that is a cooperative effort of kind, knowledgeable, and eco-responsible folks. They all make me happy! ps again, I was not paid or prompted to write this :] Namaste! Positive Timor_Mortis Crescent City, CA (1 review) July 01, 2008 I purchased a few different varieties of seed from them last year, even including some which are supposed to have a low germination rate (specifically, a few varieties of sage, including white sage.) And I found the germination rate was actually much higher than they said, I dont know if I was just lucky and got some really good seeds,lol... or If it had to do with my particular skills or the advice from them... but I had an average 90% germination rate, easily...I was very happy with the results and their prices where very fair as well... the only issue I had with them was that it took nearly a month for me to receive my order, but that couldnt be helped, they where having some issues with a ton of backorders I think if I remember right it was because of a sickness or something in the family...so the long shipping was perfectly understandable under the circumstances.^_^ Company representative comment on January 11, 2009: On Jan 11, 2009 3:36 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC added: Luckily nobody in the family has been sick, at least not in the kind of way that it would be a good excuse for not sending seeds very rapidly. We generally do a 2-day turnaround on seed orders although we've certainly done our share of same-day shipping and also gotten behind from time to time. Certainly, if anybody needs their seeds by a certain date they should LET US KNOW! You know how it is--we try to do things on time but there are unforeseen circumstances like--somebody calls in sick (or their grandmother dies for the third time since last June) and somebody else "has to give a massage" instead of coming to work as expected. Meanwhile, we have to scramble because a customer in New Jersey is going to Nigeria on Tuesday (its Friday afternoon) and needs their seeds before the plane takes off. Also, the dog got its leg caught in the door and had to go to the vet to have it set, and the well mysteriously quit working, so we had to haul water up from the creek to flush the toilet. There are so many great excuses for delaying orders, like the credit card didn't work, the customer didn't answer their phone or their e-mail when we tried to contact, the address was wrong (the customer was speaking Russian so we sent the seeds to Siberia when actually he said Liberia--you get the idea). We're real people. When we get an order for roots, we go out and dig. When we get an order for seeds, half the time we go out and shake the plant (well, not half the time, but SOMEtimes...). Anyhow, thanks to you and others like you that have patience, we keep the hands on and the quality in. We wouldn't have it any other way. And we wouldn't sell to Monsanto, either. Not seeds, not the company, nothin. Richo Positive herbalbetty Middleburgh, NY (5 reviews) May 10, 2008 Whether you want seeds or plants of herbs , Horizon Herbs is the place to go. Not only do they have a most interesting and complete selection, the quality cannot be surpassed. Seed packs are generous and viable. Plants are very healthy and of good size. They are a knowledgeable, friendly, family company. Packaging is the best I have seen anywhere and not a molecule of dirt was disturbed in my orders - even to the opposite side of the country. Email answers to questions are quick and courteous. Thanks! Positive jnbgregg Baltimore, MD (2 reviews) January 06, 2008 Highly recommended. Most of my dealings with Horizon Herbs have been seed purchase for medicinal use or aesthetic value as woodland perennials. Their selection is broad - many hard to find and unusual plants. Germination rate has always been well above average. They are accessible if questions arise. Only one mishap in dealing with them. Received an incorrect cultivar seed pack. On notification, the seed pack was replaced with seedlings at no charge. Positive Luthercat Port Townsend, WA (1 review) November 29, 2007 I have purchased seeds, cuttings,live plants and books from this company over the past ten years and have found their quality of material and service to be consistantly excellent. As a Pacific Northwest gardener who grows herbal and medicinal plants in addition to traditional vegetables and ornamentals, having a regional supplier, with real regional experience and information is a huge benefit. I am constantly delighted by the unusual and hard to find seeds and plants that Horizon offers. They are a small, family owned and operated business that I believe deserves the continued support of the gardening community, especially in a day and age when small independent growers and nurseries are being absorbed by the big guys, often with negative results ( I live not far from what used to be Heronswood Nursery, a sad story in my opinion). I am pleased to be a customer and would recommend them highly. Positive nehketah Knoxville, TN (3 reviews) November 03, 2007 Great hard to find seeds and the seeds came within a couple of days after ordering Positive jabowman78 Pleasant Hill, CA (1 review) October 17, 2007 With outstanding variety and selection, Horizon Herbs is easily one of the better retailers on the web today. The superb quality of their seeds and courteousness of their staff makes this company one of my personal favorites. Thanks! Joe SF/Bay Area California Positive herbdigger13 Santa Clara, CA (1 review) September 11, 2007 A great, great company. All the seeds and plants I have ordered have been of the highest quality, and they have so many amazing and rare medicinal plants you can't find anywhere else! Good service, wonderful friendly and informative staff. Richo's books are always excellent, my personal favorite is "Making Plant Medicine" -- I learned a lot from that book, and am now making my own herbal medicines. Highest recommendation! Thank you, everybody at Horizon Herbs, for being there. Company representative comment on September 11, 2007: On Sep 11, 2007 6:51 AM, Horizon Herbs, LLC added: Thanks Herbdigger, When a sponge is totally dry, its hard to get it to soak up water. What I mean by this is, you must have some original expertise to take advantage of good information, good goods. So it goes both ways, really. You have the ability to make use of viable seeds, and you can recognize a rare plant when you see it. The appreciation is mutual. Richo Positive aphroditeslaugh Seattle, WA (3 reviews) August 09, 2007 I heard about Horizon from a dear friend. I was very impressed with the diversity and scope of their catalog, as well as the friendliness of the owners. I ordered two seed packets and a Skullcap plant. The package arrived promptly, with the plant well secured and thriving. I really didn't expect it to arrive with so much top growth. It looks great. Horizon is definitely on my favorites list. Company representative comment on August 09, 2007: On Aug 9, 2007 1:58 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC added: Oh, thanks, that's good. The funny thing is, I hemmed and hawed for quite a few minutes, there in the greenhouse, trying to find the best plant for you. I have a policy to always ship the best plant first, but its often difficult to FIND the best plant. You look at the flat, and it seems like all the plants are so leafy, there with their friends, and then you pull one out, and it doesn't look so leafy, there by itself. Also, if we're shipping in the inexpensive priority mail box, we can't send the taller plants, so I end up trying to find a short, sturdy one. The one I finally found for you had a few stems, and some were falling off the edge of the flat, and all together it seemed pretty leafy, so I sent it to you. I'm really glad you liked it! Positive armypixie Lakewood, WA (1 review) June 04, 2007 Thank you Horizon Herbs! I am one of those people that plants green things because I love green things: I love to watch them grow! I have books and books about herbs, oils, tinctures, etc. and I am always stuck in an apartment (I am in the Army), so I have to keep plants in pots. I recently decided that I wanted to make my own medicinal teas and bought a bunch (about 30) of seed packets...I planted them on 08 April 07, and am happy to report that they are ALL beautiful little plants! The Chickweed is especially nice (and yummy) and the Motherwort sprung right up! The rest of them took a while, but it says right on the seed packet that you must be patient! I was worried about the Passion Flower, but I noticed two days ago that there is a beautiful little plant in the pot! YAY. Thank you again so much. Amy in Tacoma, WA Company representative comment on June 06, 2007: On Jun 6, 2007 4:33 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC added: Amy, Bless you for planting seeds and I hope you have a big garden bed covered with 3 inches of the finest of weed-seed-free compost and a good supply of clear water and just the right amount of sun and shade, sometime soon, right outside your door. Richo Positive JLHudson La Honda, CA (9 reviews) May 05, 2007 As a professional seedsman, I have dealt with Horizon Herbs for many years. We have gotten many seeds from him, and they are always high quality. We appreciate the fact that Richo takes seed quality seriously - such high standards are rare. His primary research into seed germination, storage, and plant propagation is of great value to the rest of us. Friendly, fast, informative. A top notch firm, and providing a valuable service disseminating rare medicinal plants - many of which would not be available at all if not for Richo's dedication. There are very few firms in the world doing this kind of work, and none doing it as well. --J.L. Hudson, Seedsman Company representative comment on May 05, 2007: On May 5, 2007 2:33 PM, Horizon Herbs, LLC added: Hello JLH, Thanks for the positive vote and I will try to live up to everyone's expectations! I took the opportunity of reviewing the one negative vote I've received in this venue, and I was struck by the gardener's statement "Unfortunately only one of the seed packets that I purchased ever grew." Now I know the problem. You have to REMOVE THE SEEDS FROM THE PACKET before planting! Positive cyra Central Valley, CA (Zone 9a) (5 reviews) April 08, 2007 I really think that there should be a rating higher than positive; this company deserves it. This company isn't an impersonal mail order enterprise, there is a working gardener, teacher, and student, (you can't be a teacher without being a student, too, IMO) heading the company, and there are real people working at the other end of each order. The good folks at horizon work with you to ensure the best possible results for your orders, and they don't hesitate to offer advice to that end. I've never had a question unanswered, personally. Their business practices are sound, and ethical, their shipments timely and well packaged, their seed and plant variety is astonishing, ---they run the gamut from ordinary kitchen favorites to exotics from all corners of the globe. Best of all, (well, I think it's important) they're eco-friendly, and they encourage this type of gardening, in others, as well. Positive desertwomanbot Gila, NM (1 review) April 04, 2007 I have been doing business with Horizon Herbs since 1991 when I decided to grow medicinal herbs. There were not many sources of medicinal seeds back then so finding this company was a blessing. Richo has been an excellent source for advice on germination & growing, making plant medicine, trouble-shooting, encouragement, & potential customers. He is knowledgable & experienced & willing to share this with others through the very detailed Cultivation Guide & many books on growing & using herbs. I highly recommend this company to anyone looking for high quality seeds, prompt, friendly service, & a standard of excellence. Positive yandariel Iowa City, IA (1 review) March 29, 2007 Horizon Herbs is amazing!!! They've got such a vast array of herbs-- including very rare and hard to find medicinals. (The catalogs are super cute too!) I was amazed last fall when my pawpaw seeds came and 3 of them had sprouted in route. They were packaged with great care and even had a special note attached. These are people that truly care about the healing plants they provide, and are very willing to give advice to those experimenting and growing with their seeds. I will be ordering from them for years to come! Christy yandariel@gmail.com Positive quitzu tucuman Argentina (1 review) March 29, 2007 people at horizon herbs is great, products are excellent and they share valuable information every time they are asked. cant ask for more Positive BenKamm Occidental, CA (Zone 8b) (1 review) March 26, 2007 Horizon is a one of a kind down-to-earth family run business. I've been ordering from these folks for years and am continually impressed by their excellent catalog, the diversity of their offerings, the high viability of their seed (which is no small feat, considering the difficulty of some species), and the health of their plants. Horizon founder and master plantsman Richo Cech has contributed a great deal to our understanding of the germination and care of many challenging plants, and without the horticultural crutch of industrial chemicals! Through his books and work with United Plant Savers, Richo has significantly invigorated the hands on conservation of endangered medicinals. Horizon Herbs rocks!

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