Have gone here well over 2 dozen times over the past year or so and always had a good experience. Very helpful and knowledgeable staff.
I like to get smaller things. One is for price but the main reason is it is easier to dig a small hole and if it doesn't last, it wasn't a big investment anyway.
Have I planted things that have died? Yes. Have I taken them back and made a stink? No, because I killed them. If that is not your style, and are like my mom who will dig something out of the ground 1yr later and return it, a big box store is probably the best bet.
The independent places sell more 1 gallon and smaller items because they don't have as much overhead. I got a few 1ft tall saguaros for $10. Not many places have them that small.
I will be getting a few trees (Chinese Elm) this fall and this will be my first stop.
As with most small local places, the more you get familiar with them, the better the experience will be. I also checked out the location in Gilbert, slightly more selection, same friendly staff.