The Aerogarden

This past Christmas I was lucky enough to receive two 3 pod AeroGardens as presents. What would I need with 2 individual AeroGardens? They have an option of larger models that hold up to 6 pods however they are large and it seems as though the nutrients they provide in the pod kits are created especially for either herbs, flowers, or veggies. By owning two I am able to grow fresh herbs in one and veggies (fresh lettuce!) in the other (I don't have any interest in growing flowers in them).

The set up could not have been any easier! We had it up and running in less than 10 minutes. Once you put water in and the nutrients the AeroGarden is off to a running start. The light will stay on for 17 hours and be off for the remaining 7 of the day. My AeroGarden is hanging out downstairs in our kitchen so the light being on at night doesn't impact us at all. In fact, it acts quite nicely as a nightlight! It does have a small motor and makes a little bit of noise but I hardly notice it. I opted to only set up one of the AeroGardens at this point in time because I am receiving fresh leaf lettuce through our organic CSA boxes.

AeroGardens are supposed to provide an excellent alternative to buying expensive fresh herbs at the grocery store. It drives me crazy when a recipe calls for one or two tablespoons of a herb and I have to make the decision to use dried herbs vs. store bought packaged ones. Dried herbs work well in case of an emergency but I personally believe nothing compares to that fresh flavor newly picked herbs provide. I also get sketched out buying the packs of fresh herbs at the grocery store. More often than not the herbs are already halfway to spoiling or I'm paying $3.99 when all I need is a tablespoon of fresh thyme. Not to mention the AeroGarden provides this opportunity year round - in any climate!

AeroGardens also are a great option for condo/apartment/townhome dwellers who may not have the convenience of soil. They also claim to provide a foolproof growing method. When the water is low, a light goes off. When the water needs more nutrients, a light goes off. Sounds pretty simple! I will keep you updated as AeroGarden #1 progresses!


Here's a look at a freshly set-up AeroGarden. The biodomes on top of the pods only stay on until the seed starts to sprout.