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3rd Street Hydroponics
Category: Shopping Home & Garden Nurseries & Gardening Nurseries & Gardening [Edit]
671 4th St(between Grove St & Castro St)
Oakland, CA 94607
Neighborhood: Jack London Square
(510) 452-5521
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm
Sat 10 am - 5 pm
Sun 10 am - 2 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
18 reviews for 3rd Street Hydroponics
18 reviews in English
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Review from Craig W.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 2/7/2012
I mostly drop by to pick up simple supplies, so it's a quick in-and-out. Very nice.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/19/2011
According to their web site they open at 10am, but I went by around 11am today (Saturday) and found… Read more »
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Review from John D.
Sunnyvale, CA
12/10/2010
Great place! The staff is extremely approachable, honest, knowledgable and very nice. I was very impressed with their phenomenal customer service and array of different products.
Dont be afraid to ask any questions, because the staff is only too happy to answer them! -
Review from Stephanie M.
Emeryville, CA
10/26/2010
This place is awesome. The staff is honest and knowledgeable which is hard to come by. Everyone in the store is super nice so I am not sure what Robyn P's problem was. They carry a wide variety of products to choose from and if you have questions about anything the staff is always there to answer.
There is a HUGE snake that is in the store that creeps me out but it is in a cage and if you really want they will take it out and take a picture with her:) -
Review from Robyn P.
Oakland, CA
9/1/2010
Worst customer service in the bay area. The first thing you see is a sign offering free hum tea for positive yelp reviews. BOOOO!!!!!
I've spent money here several times and it's always the same; the daughter that works there is mad at you for coming in, the mom is pretty nice and everyone else there is in between.
They've got a decent selection but not much knowledge about it. If you know what you need and where it is and can't wait to get it anywhere else then I still might not go back here.
And its on 4th st now which makes sense given the rest of the operation.
Update: 10/26/2010
Reviews of this store seem to fall into two categories:
People who have never been to a hydro store or grown something before.
People who work for 3rd st Hydro or write reviews on their behalf.
Stephanie M. likes the big snake in the store. That definitely makes a quality grow shop more than anything else.
If you want to be bribed with free hum tea for writing them a positive review you might want to watch them dump the rest of their batch onto the sidewalk after they bottle it for you because its too old.
The only reviews here that offer actual experiences and anything substantial about the place almost all give it the minimum rating. Several reviews are obviously written by Amanda L. who will harass anyone who gives them a negative review.
Maybe they care about their customers but their attitudes and un-professionalism is not worth dealing with, especially with places like Berkeley Secret Garden and Emeryville's new Complete Garden supply. Nice, reasonable people who keep their drama at home. What a concept. -
Review from Peder B.
Oakland, CA
8/17/2010
3rd St Hydroponics is the best place for your growing needs what ever they are. The crew is super and very knowable, don't be afraid to ask.
Cheers -
Review from tObi b.
Albany, CA
12/26/2009
Rude beyond belief!
My biz partner has dropped a fair amount of cash here in the past 6 months.
The other day, after spending nearly $4000 and being told out items would be in on a Monday, prepped and ready for pickup.
Upon calling Monday, we were told it would be ready on the following day, a Tuesday.
Called Tuesday, asking if it was ready for pickup. Was told to "just come in and we'll prep it, we have a lot of customers in the store right now and we're busy" I explained we had someone making a pickup and delivery for us and that they had an itinerary, so if they prepare it and give us a time to simply come in and make a quick pickup, as it all had been paid for. They told me to come in at 1:30 then for pickup, it would be ready.
Our driver went by at 4:30pm that Tuesday, and the order was only half finished, meaning we would have to return another day to make the pickup of the complete order.
Wednesday morning I decide to call, register a mild annoyance on my part with them about their failure to meet even the minimum customer service standards after taking our money.
I got the husband of the business team on the phone upon calling, not the clerk who had originally written up the order. I began to explain what we had been experiencing and the second her realized I was starting to make a complaint, he began to yell at me, and then hung up.
I called back immediately and was told "I thought we were done" Once again, before I could even start to complain, I was yelled at again, told we should have made our requests for modifications when we ordered, which we had done.
Our business will never again shop at this store. I recommend other folks do the same. This place takes your money, tells you what you want to hear, then jacks you around when you try to get what you pay for.
Don't do it!!! -
Review from Robert F.
Hayward, CA
12/10/2010
They have great customer service and they are all super nice. They carry a variety of products and answer any questions you have. The girl cashier is super nice and knowledgeable. She gives discounts too ;D.
There's also a GINORMOUS snake that is in a cage and you could take a picture with her. :)
Overall, this is a great place to go and they are just happy to do their jobs. :) -
Review from Lisa F.
Oakland, CA
7/9/2010
Queer-phobic as heck. If you walk in there looking like a dyke expect to be ignored. I had been standing at the counter for about 2 minutes being ignored while the two heterosexual clerks flirted with each other, about a foot away from my face. They never even turned to acknowledge me. A straight-looking white man walked up and both of them suddenly turned their attention to him. I had to ask them about a class that was supposed to be started (at that moment). The dude behind the counter told me they don't teach classes there. I pointed to the sign behind him which had the class posted, and then he goes "Oh, yeah- he'll be here in about 20 minutes". If that isn't downright rude and homophobic, I don't know what is. I mean, I had on clean clothes and didn't have a big green wart on my nose, ya know?
This is the second time I've been in here. The first time their computer wasn't working so they couldn't take credit cards, they couldn't find their class schedule and quoted me prices for classes that were double what is posted on their website- bait and switch. Obviously they do not want biz from queers, so don't go there unless you look like a white lumberjack or a cute little chick. It's bad enough this whole industry is Top heavy with white men. Give a queer sister a break, man.
So you're too cool to wait on folks when they come in their store, come in for classes that they put time aside to come and take, or even act like decent human beings? On top of that your prices are really high? Maybe you are just "too cool" to be in biz and would be more qualified to be on the couch smokin' while watching "Bewitched" reruns.
After reading the other reviews, I'm thinking maybe this whole biz is not really a biz at all, at least not the biz they say they are. Hmmm..... -
Review from FlyCaper F.
Oakland, CA
8/12/2010
I have been going to 3rd Street for about 3 months now. I have purchased all types of products and have never been disappointed. Every time I ordered something (some duct, flanges, nutes, etc..) it arrived the next day. There are plenty of employees and its always easy to find someone. The entire staff has always been friendly and helpful with me. Plus there is always fresh compost tea brewed up on site.
5 Starz -
Review from Michael S.
Oakland, CA
12/12/2011
3rd Street Hydro seems on the surface to be a perfectly fine shop. Lots of selection, reasonable prices (which are sometimes marked unreasonably and then discounted), plenty of room, and a forklift. However, what they don't have is a competent staff. Not only have I had orders come in short and been strung along (it'll be here tomorrow, we swear), but I've also been flat-out lied to. For instance, one of the workers there--I think they were a manager or owner--told me that 3rd St. made up the formula for Organicare Aeration Mix. This is blatantly false, as I know for a fact that the formula was created by Dirt Cheap in Fort Bragg (they sell it in bulk there). Moreover, the same person told me that the Organicare Indoor Aeration Mix was the same thing as the Botanicare Ready-Gro Moisture Formula, just with more perlite. Again, blatantly false: all it takes is a glance at the ingredients to tell you so. The Organicare Aeration doesn't even *have* perlite in it.
Overall, 3rd Street Hydro has a good selection and decent prices but terrible service. The East Bay is full of grow shops. There's no need to shop at one that lies to you about their products. -
Review from Kevin K.
Hayward, CA
5/25/2011
By far the worst place I have been!! The web site says lowest prices in the bay ha ha ha thats a joke try the most expensive place in the bay with the rudest cashier. Now being that I used to run a medical dispensary I would say I know the cost of the products. If you think this store has great values I would be the first to tell you try another store don't wast your hard earned cash when you can get most of the products they sell for 10.00 to 20.00 cheaper at almost any other store!!!!! Over all super bad experience
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Review from Rick G.
Oakland, CA
9/14/2010
I have been going here since I started growing indoors (last year). They have offered valuable guidance and have not just tried to sell their products. They have not steered me wrong on any issue or question I have had. The prices are competitive and the staff is very friendly and knowlegeable. Highly recommended!
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Review from Deejay K.
Oakland, CA
9/1/2010
So I guess I'll blab a little bit to listen to myself talk/read.
Here's what I think of most Hydro stores. Full of dip shit stoners with poor attitudes. Thinking they are too cool for school. So they don't give a rip b/c they are ripped outa their minds. They assume you'll stick around b/c you have no where else to go. Any jack ass can open a hydro shop. But to do it well..... Now that's a different subject.
I don't feel that here. My first time here, I had a great interaction with the owner. I can't remember her name. Mary? Man I feel like ass. Anyhow, She opened 15min early for me b/c I had to go play in bridge traffic. Made me happy that she wasn't a clock watcher.
She gave me an ideal of what kinda person she is, what her business is about, and some of the cool things her store has to offer. I got a nonbias feed back from her. Which I like. B/c if any grower/gardener tries to act like they know every damn thing in regards to growning, photosynthesis, and nutrients. It just means their a damn ass clown full of compost, tryna stroke their own ego.
As for the rest of the staff. They are cool. I'm a big fan of that beautiful blue nose pit they have. I like dogs more then humans, so go figure.
I would say for some constructive criticism. I'd like to see each staff member take on a line of nutrients and know them in and out. They might already do that. I just don't know it. But for those customers that want you to wipe their asses for them. That might be helpful. Like a sommelier of nutrients if you will.
I know it's expensive to run a shop. But having the larger felt growing bags on hand at all times would be awesome. 20,25, &30 gallon. Just me being selfish of course.
For future customers. Know what your shopping for. Don't expect the staff to grow your garden and eat it for ya too. Kinda reminds me of that guy that asks for a cigarette and lighter. I just take my cig back and tell to kick rocks.
I say keep up the good work. I always see progress when I walk in the doors, which is about once a week. -
Review from Princess L.
Oakland, CA
8/26/2010
One of the best places in oakland to get your gardening stuff . Super friendly staff ! stuff from this place rocks my veggies !
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Review from Monica G.
Oakland, CA
3/9/2010
I've had nothing but great experiences at 3rd street. The staff is extremely friendly and knowledgeable. They don't have any problems answering questions that you might have. Since I don't have a big car 3rd street was nice to deliver my purchases during my schedule and they even helped me unload all the items. I don't know why Tobi doesn't like 3rd street but the items I've ordered came in on time and the staff never rushed me aside. They are very welcoming and want to help you in anyway. I don't even bother going to any other hydro shops in Oakland or Berkeley now. I would recommend 3rd Street to anyone and have sent them new customers that are now frequent buyers.
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Review from michael l.
Oakland, CA
8/23/2010
I don't know where these crazy reviews are coming from...I've been dealing with 3rd street for some time now and have never had a negative experience there...
They are very supportive of local growers and the staff has always answered my questions without that elitist attitude that I find at a lot of other shops.
Last time I was there I bought some rockwool and dude gave me a free scalpel, never had that happen at ANY hydro shop before. -
Review from Elliott P.
Oakland, CA
8/22/2010
why go anywhere else? i literally NEVER buy supplies anywhere but 3rd st. i've been shopping here for years now, and i feel like family. the biggest inventory i've ever seen, the most experienced staff and usually a good laugh every time i stop by. i've spent thousands of dollars here, and never once felt like shouldnt have.
i see a few negative reviews... i do have to say though, if you decide to frequent ANY local businesses who are "the best" at what they do, it usually pays not to be an idiot or douchebag... theres a reason they are the best, and that deserves respect. this isnt wal-mart or TGI Fridays.
WE LOVE YOU GUYS!!!! -
Review from Mike T.
Oakland, CA
10/14/2010
These guys totally suck balls! I went in and some old dude who I guess was the owner was cussing out his employees in front of other customers, talking like he was gonna fire them. Then he asked me if I wanted a job after he did that, f-no! That totally ruined my shopping experience there and they really didn't have much different stuff than other hydro shops. There were no like setups or displays that I could look at and get ideas, and none of them really helped my as an intermidiate grower to understand better ways of growing. I would recommend not visiting there because the place is small and the vibe sucks. I would rather stop by DnS or weGrow, who seem to be getting better than they were before with cool things to look at and better pricing.
