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Discover insights and tips in our AeroGarden Harvest review. It’s an honest, week-by-week journey of indoor gardening success.
AeroGarden Harvest Key Takeaways:
- AeroGarden Harvest review:
- The AeroGarden Harvest is a reliable and efficient indoor garden.
- It is excellent for growing herbs like thyme, dill, basil, and mint.
- You can also grow peppers and cherry tomatoes.
- It features an adjustable LED light, easy setup, and requires minimal maintenance.
- Its compact size is perfect for small spaces, making it a great choice for urban gardeners.
Welcome to our AeroGarden Harvest review! Join us on a green journey as we explore the ins and outs of this amazing indoor garden.
From sprouting seeds in week 1 to lush growth in week 7, we’ll share our personal experiences, offering tips and tricks along the way.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a newbie, this review will provide valuable insights for anyone considering an AeroGarden Harvest.
AeroGarden Harvest Review: Your Guide to Indoor Gardening
Discover the world of indoor gardening with the AeroGarden Harvest.
This review dives into every aspect of the AeroGarden Harvest, a popular choice for those looking to grow plants indoors.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, this guide will help you understand what the AeroGarden Harvest offers, its benefits and limitations, and how to make the most of it.
Pros and Cons of the AeroGarden Harvest
Pros
Simplicity in Starting and Maintenance:
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- The AeroGarden Harvest stands out for its ease of use. Setting it up is a breeze, and maintaining it requires minimal effort. Perfect for beginners and busy individuals, it automates most of the gardening process, allowing you to enjoy growing plants without the hassle.
LED Indicators for Water and Nutrient Levels:
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- You’ll never have to guess when to water or feed your plants. The AeroGarden Harvest comes equipped with LED indicators that alert you when it’s time to add water and nutrients, making plant care straightforward and stress-free.
Comes with a Starter Seed Kit:
- The system includes a starter seed kit, complete with reusable components and fertilizer. This kit allows you to start growing right away and offers a variety of plants to choose from, enhancing your indoor gardening experience.
Cons
Limited Vertical Space and Pruning Requirements:
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- One of the drawbacks of the AeroGarden Harvest is its limited vertical space. This means you’ll need to regularly prune taller plants to keep them from touching the LED lights, which can be a bit of a challenge for those who are not used to pruning.
- Challenges in Hand Pollination: Some plants require pollination to bear fruit, and in an indoor setting, this means hand pollination. This process can be tricky, especially for beginners. However, with a bit of practice and patience, it’s certainly manageable.
Description and Features of the AeroGarden Harvest
Design Overview
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- Midsize System Capabilities: The AeroGarden Harvest is a midsize system that can comfortably fit up to six plants. Its compact design makes it ideal for small spaces like kitchen counters or desks, allowing you to enjoy fresh herbs, vegetables, and flowers without needing a lot of room.
- Space-Efficient Unit: This system is designed to maximize your gardening capabilities while taking up minimal space. It’s a perfect solution for urban dwellers or anyone with limited space who still wants the joy of growing their own plants.
Key Features
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- Water Reservoir and LED Controls: The lower water reservoir ensures your plants always have the moisture they need, and the intuitive LED controls make managing your garden effortless.
- Removable Grow Deck: The grow deck, which holds the plant pods, is removable, making it easy to clean and maintain.
- Adjustable Overhead Grow Light Panel: The 20-watt full-spectrum LED grow lights support plant growth, and the adjustable panel allows you to raise the lights as your plants grow, ensuring they always have the right amount of light.
- Automatic Timer and Light Settings: The Harvest features an automatic timer to regulate the light cycles, crucial for plant growth. The backlit buttons remind you when it’s time to add water and plant food, taking the guesswork out of plant care.
Setting Up the AeroGarden Harvest
Initial Setup
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- Unpacking and Assembly: Getting your AeroGarden Harvest ready is straightforward. Unpack the components, assemble the unit following simple instructions, and you’re almost set to start your indoor garden. This simplicity is ideal for those who prefer a quick and hassle-free setup.
- Filling the Water Reservoir: The first step after assembly is to fill the water reservoir. Just use tap water, filling it to just below the integrated pump. This reservoir is crucial for the hydroponic system, providing your plants with a consistent water supply.
- Adding Fertilizer: The fertilizer included with your AeroGarden is easy to use. The bottle clearly indicates how much to add initially and every two weeks thereafter, ensuring your plants get the nutrients they need to thrive.
Seed Pods and Planting
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- Understanding Seed Pack Instructions: Each seed pack comes with clear instructions. These instructions guide you on how to place the seeds for optimal growth, taking the guesswork out of the equation.
- Placing Seed Pods and Humidity Domes: The seed pods are designed to fit perfectly in the AeroGarden’s deck. The accompanying humidity domes help maintain the right moisture level during germination, which is key to getting your plants off to a good start.
- Light Adjustments and Timer Settings: Adjusting the light is crucial as it influences plant growth. The AeroGarden Harvest makes this easy with its adjustable light deck and automatic timer that manages the light cycle effectively.
Maintaining Your AeroGarden Harvest
Automated Features for Maintenance
• Indicator Lights for Maintenance Alerts: The system’s indicator lights inform you when it’s time to add water or nutrients, simplifying maintenance. This feature is especially useful for those new to gardening or with a busy schedule.
• Water and Fertilizer Management: The AeroGarden Harvest takes the guesswork out of watering and feeding your plants. Its automated alerts remind you when it’s time to add water and nutrients, ensuring your plants are always well cared for.
Manual Maintenance Tasks
• Adjusting the Light Deck: As your plants grow, you’ll need to raise the light deck to maintain a safe distance from the plants. This task is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
• Regular Pruning: Pruning is key to healthy plant growth, especially in a confined space. Regular pruning ensures your plants don’t overcrowd each other and receive ample light.
• Pollination Techniques (If Required): For plants that require pollination, you’ll need to do this manually. AeroGarden sells a pollinating tool, but a simple cotton swab can also do the job. This task is crucial for fruit-bearing plants.
What Can You Grow in an AeroGarden Harvest?
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Types of Plants Suitable
- Vegetables, Herbs, and Flowers: You can grow a variety of plants in your AeroGarden Harvest, from vegetables like peppers and cherry tomatoes to herbs and even flowers. The variety allows for a rich gardening experience, right in your home.
- Leafy Greens: Leafy greens like lettuce grow exceptionally well in the AeroGarden Harvest, making it easy to have fresh greens at your fingertips.
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Limitations
- Unsuitability for Larger Produce: While the AeroGarden Harvest is versatile, it’s not suitable for larger vegetables like eggplants. However, it’s perfect for starting seeds that can be transplanted outdoors.
- Transplanting Options for Root Vegetables: Root vegetables can’t be grown to maturity in the AeroGarden due to space constraints, but you can start them in the AeroGarden and then transplant them to a larger space.
My AeroGarden Harvest Grow Weeks 1-7
I am starting my AeroGarden Harvest Review. I will be doing a full and honest review of the AeroGarden Harvest with weekly video updates.
If you are thinking about buying an AeroGarden I think you will find this review helpful.
AeroGarden Harvest Review Week 1
So far my AeroGarden Harvest has performed flawlessly. I received it on Christmas Eve (a present to myself LOL) and had it set up in less than an hour.
You can view the AeroGarden Harvest unboxing and set up here AeroGarden Harvest Unboxing It Was Surprising ! (indoorvegetablegrower.com)
By day 5 my thyme, dill, Genovese basil, Thai basil, and mint had all sprouted. The curly parsley is slow germinating seeds, taking 3-4 weeks to come up.
The dill is the only plant above the pod but by my next update, there should be more plants poking through. Here is a picture of the dill on day 7.
Everything else germinated much faster than expected. To be honest I was skeptical that any at all would sprout. So I am a happy camper.
The adjustable LED is very bright and these plants will not be hurting for light. I have not had to add any water or fertilizer this week. The timer turned the light on and off without any issues. So I would call week 1 a total success.
Check out the AeroGarden Harvest on Amazon and read real customer reviews
AeroGarden Harvest Review Week 2
Everything is up on day 14 even the parsley which is supposed to take 3-4 weeks. The dill is the tallest plant so far but I am not surprised because it is naturally a tall plant.
The mint and thyme are both smaller but I know mint gets tall too. The basil is getting some nice thick leaves. Everything is poised to really take off this week.
After 2 weeks my water level warning came on. I added a quart of water and a half capful of nutrients and then pushed the button. The pump started immediately so everything got mixed together.
So far the AeroGarden Harvest has delivered really good results for me. The only problem I can foresee is having to refill the reservoir fairly often as the plants get larger.
It only holds a bit over 2 quarts and that is not very much. AeroGarden makes the AeroVoir which is an external reservoir that adds another gallon to this and I will probably add it.
Week 3 Pruning My Aerogarden Plants
The growth of my plants has been very good and I am ready to start pruning back some of them. Here is what they looked like on day 21:
Here is what they looked like after pruning:
Week 3 Pruning Video
So if you have any of the Aerogardens you will need to prune your plants. A lot of newer gardeners are afraid to do this.
They think they might kill them but actually, pruning helps them grow better.
Just be brave. You can use clippers like I did (recommended) or just pinch them off with your fingernails.
So after 3 weeks from putting my pods in, I already have some trimmings for this morning’s omelet. That’s awesome!
Week 4 Aerogarden Review WE HAVE ROOTS!
This is a weekly review for my AeroGarden Harvest. This is my fourth week. Exactly 28 days since I plugged my AeroGarden Harvest in.
So I have 6 AeroGarden pods that came with it. I have 2 basil plants, thyme, mint, dill, and parsley.
Today I did my second pruning on my plants. Check out the roots on the dill and basil.
Week 5 Aerogarden Review
After week 5 I let everything grow and skipped trimming for a week. Water is now being added once a week.
Week 7 Aerogarden Review
It was definitely time to prune back some plants. The dill was touching the light. Also, the basil was starting to shade the thyme.
AeroGarden Harvest FAQs
Are you curious about how to make the most of your AeroGarden Harvest? You’re not alone!
Many indoor garden enthusiasts have questions about this popular device.
To help you navigate your AeroGarden Harvest experience, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions.
From troubleshooting the pump to managing your garden while on vacation, we’ve got you covered!”
Q: What is AeroGarden Harvest?
A: The AeroGarden Harvest is an indoor gardening system that uses hydroponics to grow plants.
It’s equipped with an adjustable LED light, a self-watering system, and seed pods, making it ideal for growing herbs, vegetables, and flowers indoors, regardless of the season.
Q: What is the difference between AeroGarden Harvest and Harvest Elite?
A: The main difference between the AeroGarden Harvest and Harvest Elite lies in their features and finishes.
While both models function similarly, the Harvest Elite typically offers more advanced features like a stainless steel finish, a digital display, and additional control settings.
Q: Is AeroGarden Harvest safe?
A: Yes, the AeroGarden Harvest is safe for indoor use. It uses non-toxic materials and energy-efficient LED lights.
It’s designed to be user-friendly and safe for growing edible plants at home.
Q: How do you set AeroGarden Harvest?
A: Setting up the AeroGarden Harvest is straightforward.
It involves assembling the unit, inserting the seed pods, filling the reservoir with water, adding nutrients, and setting the light timer.
Detailed instructions are provided with the unit.
Q: How do I know when to harvest my AeroGarden?
A: The right time to harvest from your AeroGarden depends on the plants you’re growing.
Generally, you can start harvesting when the plants are mature and healthy-looking. Herbs can often be harvested when they are several inches tall.
Q: How often does the pump run on AeroGarden Harvest?
A: The pump in the AeroGarden Harvest runs on a timer. But generally, it runs intermittently to ensure consistent water flow and aeration to the roots.
Q: How often should I add water to my AeroGarden?
A: The frequency of adding water to your AeroGarden depends on the stage of plant growth.
Initially, you may not need to add water often, but as plants grow, adding water roughly once a week is common.
The AeroGarden will alert you when water levels are low with a flashing light.
Q: How can I make my AeroGarden grow faster?
A: To accelerate growth in your AeroGarden, ensure that the plants get the right amount of light and nutrients.
Regular pruning and keeping the water levels and nutrient concentrations at optimal levels can also promote faster growth.
You can also add an airstone to improve its efficiency. There are 2 holes in the back of the lid with removable rubber plugs to insert the airline.
Q: How long does it take AeroGarden to harvest plants?
A: The time it takes to harvest plants from an AeroGarden varies depending on the type of plants you are growing.
Herbs can be ready for initial harvesting in as little as 3-4 weeks, while vegetables and flowers might take longer.
Some plants can continue producing for several months
Q: How long does it take for seeds to sprout in the AeroGarden Harvest?
A: In the AeroGarden Harvest, seeds can sprout quite quickly. For example, thyme, dill, Genovese basil, Thai basil, and mint typically sprout within 5 days.
However, some seeds like curly parsley may take longer, around 3-4 weeks, to germinate.
Q: Do I need to add water and fertilizer regularly to the AeroGarden Harvest?
A: In the initial weeks, the AeroGarden Harvest requires minimal maintenance.
For instance, during the first two weeks, there might be no need to add water or fertilizer.
However, as the plants grow, you will need to add water and nutrients more frequently, approximately once a week.
Q: Is pruning necessary for plants in the AeroGarden Harvest?
A: Yes, pruning is recommended for plants in the AeroGarden Harvest, especially as they start to grow densely.
Regular pruning, which can be done using clippers or even by pinching off with fingernails, this not only keeps the plants healthy but also encourages better growth.
Q: How often should I prune my plants in the AeroGarden Harvest?
A: Pruning frequency can depend on the growth rate of your plants. In the AeroGarden Harvest, you may start pruning as early as week 3 and continue as needed.
Regular pruning helps manage the size of the plants and ensures they don’t overshadow each other or touch the lights.
Q: Can I keep my AeroGarden Harvest running while I’m on vacation?
A: Yes, the AeroGarden Harvest and other models have a Vacation Mode. This mode is designed to keep your plants watered and alive, even if you’re away for an extended period.
Q: How can I adjust the light times on my AeroGarden Harvest?
A: AeroGardens come with pre-programmed light cycles depending on the model and plant type.
For specific adjustments, refer to your Garden Guide or the support section on the AeroGarden website.
AeroGarden Harvest Conclusion
The AeroGarden Harvest offers an easy and efficient way to grow a variety of plants indoors.
With its automated features, simple setup, and maintenance, it’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners.
Whether you want fresh herbs for cooking, beautiful flowers, or just the joy of gardening, the AeroGarden Harvest is a wonderful addition to any home.
Read more: What AeroGarden Should I Buy
