They didn't jack up the prices...they have always had jacked up prices. I've been looking to buy a couple trees for 6+ months and they have always charged $100 for 24" box and $200 for 32"/36" box.
What I liked about it most is the 1 year guarantee that came with the planting. I've had 1 queen palm not make it previously (planted by me) and 3 Dwarf Myrtle shurbs that also didn't make it, also planted by me. With spending all the money, it was good peace of mind for me.
As for the likelihood of the trees surviving...well...see the above statement.
They of course said they will be fine (what else are they going to say) but with the guarantee, I feel ok about it, they will replace them if they don't survive.