Frequently Asked Questions
What is Aeroponics?
Aeroponics is an innovative dirt-free growing method where plant roots are suspended in air within a 100% humidity, highly-oxygenated growing chamber. Because the roots are bathed with ideal levels of nutrients, water and oxygen, plants grow significantly faster, are healthier, and have a higher nutrient content than plants grown in soil.
How big is the AeroGarden?
The base of the AeroGarden is about the size of a breadbox or microwave oven and is sized to fit conveniently under most kitchen cabinets. The AeroGarden measures 16” long by 10 1/2” wide by 15 1/2” high when it is first set up with the lights at the lowest possible setting, and 21” high at the highest level. Currently the AeroGarden comes in only one size.
What comes with the AeroGarden system?
Your AeroGarden kit includes everything necessary for a complete season of growth (just add water). See detailed description below diagram.
1. Built-in plant lighting system
- Full daylight spectrum, energy efficient grow lights allow you to grow anywhere. No natural sunlight needed.
2. Aeroponic optimizing chamber
- Creates a near-perfect rainforest growing environment.
3. Computerized “smart” garden technology
- Built-in micro-processor automatically adjusts nutrient delivery, light cycles, and water for specific plant types.
- Built-in light timer turns lights on and off.
- Built-in reminder system automatically alerts you to add water and nutrients.
- Two full-spectrum grow bulbs (specially engineered for the AeroGarden)
Seed Kit is also included with each AeroGarden (see picture below):
A. Pre-seeded bio-dome seed pods enclosed in their own mini-greenhouse for ultra-fast germination.
B. Time release nutrient tablets provide erfect plant nutrition with 65 macro and micro-nutrients for optimal plant health.
C. Tending & Harvesting Guide with recipes walks you through everything you need to know to grow and harvest your plants, as well as tips and recipes for enjoying your harvests.
How long will my plants live?
Cherry Tomatoes and Chili Peppers will grow for 6 – 7 months, and you will be able to start harvesting in about 10 weeks. That gives you approximately 4 months of continuous harvests.
Salad Greens will live for 3 – 4 months, and you can begin harvesting after only 3 weeks. This gives you about 2 ½ months of continuous harvests.
Gourmet Herbs and International Basil will all last for 4 – 5 months. You can start harvesting in about 4 weeks, giving you 3 – 4 months of continuous harvests.
How much time do I have to spend taking care of my AeroGarden?
Approximately 5 minutes a month. You will need to occasionally add water, drop in 2 nutrient tablets, and provide minimal tending to your plants. Most of your time will be spent harvesting and enjoying delicious, fresh food.
How long can the AeroGarden be left unattended? What if I travel a lot?
A planted AeroGarden can be left unattended for up to 2 weeks, depending on the type of plants you are growing and their maturity. If you are absent minded ... don't worry ... the AeroGarden's flashing lights will remind you that it's time to add water or nutrients.
When can I begin harvesting?
It depends on which seed kit you have. You can begin harvesting lettuces and basils 3 weeks after planting your garden and then enjoy continuous harvests for months.
Other herbs will take about 5 weeks to be ready for harvest. Our fruiting plants will take longer to harvest: about 10 to 12 weeks for cherry tomatoes and chili peppers.
Are the nutrient tablets organic?
Yes, the AeroGarden nutrient tablets are organic, according to current AAPFCO (American Association of Food Control Officials) standards. They are carefully crafted using mineral salts and seaweed. These provide the 13 nutrients that all plants require, plus 65 additional micro-nutrients for additional vigor, in just the right proportions for each seed kit type.
Can I mix Seed Kits?
Yes, although this is primarily recommended only for experienced gardeners. There are three reasons for this.
Because the plants grow at different rates and have different leaf sizes, some faster growing plants in mixed kits could over-shadow and block the light from slower growing plants. Experienced gardeners will know how to avoid this issue.
Our nutrients have been specially designed for the group of plants in each kit. If kits are mixed the plants could be under, or over-fed.
Your AeroGarden comes with pre-set light cycles according to kit type. If you mix kits you could be sub-optimizing your plant’s growth by giving it too much, or too little, light.
How much energy does the AeroGarden use?
The AeroGarden system has been designed for maximum efficiency. The entire system uses less energy than a single 60-watt light bulb ... which is really amazing since the system includes a computerized micro-processor, water flow pump, timer and lights.
What kind of light bulbs does it use?
The AeroGarden uses full-spectrum compact fluorescent bulbs exclusively designed for the optimal amount and type of light needed for robust, healthy plant growth. For optimum results it is recommended that you replace the bulbs every 6 months.
