Garden Express

In an ever-changing world, with the rapid changes of COVID-19 and digital marketing, Garden Express stands tall with over 20 years of experience in online retailing. Offering everything from plants to bulbs and all your garden accessories, Garden Express has been inspiring Australian gardeners online since 2000.

But what makes Garden Express a favourite among gardeners, and how has it been able to thrive in the online space for over two decades?

Let’s explore.

Behind the success of Garden Express is the Van Berkel family. With a rich history spanning 70 years in the horticultural industry, the family legacy ­– now touching four generations – began in the early 1950s with Henk Van Berkel. He was followed by his son Jos, his grandson and current Managing Director David, and his great-granddaughter and General Manager Chloe Van Berkel.

Their journey began when Henk and his brother Len, fleeing the ravages of war-torn Europe, arrived in Australia in pursuit of a brighter future.

“They settled in a little town in the Dandenong Ranges of Victoria, on the whisper of rich growing soils and a cool climate, perfect for growing tulips and hyacinths,” David explains.

The Van Berkel Brothers quickly rose to prominence as one of Australia’s leading cultivators of highly sought-after bulbs. What followed was a flourishing direct-mail-order business, along with the supply of bulbs to retailers such as GJ Coles and Co, the now-closed chain store Fosseys, and other large retailers like Kmart, which the Van Berkel family supplied for over 50 years.

Natural progression led to the family embracing the internet and e-commerce, with Garden Express formed in the early 2000s, to enhance the already successful mail-order business. Since then, Garden Express has pioneered many of the standards and practices we see today, and has become Australia’s largest online garden centre, continually refining its offering to ensure gardeners get the largest choice and the best quality, all backed by amazing customer service.

So, what does that mean for gardeners?

Garden Express breaks the barriers of stock limitations by offering an extensive range of plants, from the common to the rare, fulfilling every gardener’s desires.

Whether it’s the peak of summer or a chilly winter night, Garden Express is open. This 24/7 accessibility ensures you can plan and shop for your garden whenever inspiration strikes.

Garden Express’s two-decade journey has perfected the art of plant deliveries. Its packages are a testament to years of feedback and innovation, ensuring that your plants arrive in impeccable condition. And if on the off chance your plants get stuck in the mail and don’t arrive in the best condition, give us a call on 1300 606 242 within 7 days of arrival with any concerns, and we will be happy to replace the plants, credit your account or fully refund the purchase price – so you can purchase with confidence.

Garden Express is more than just an online nursery. It’s a testament to how tradition and modernity can come together beautifully. With over 20 years of experience, it remains at the forefront of online gardening, constantly evolving, yet always rooted in its commitment to quality and community.

Photo by Getty Images