While saving money is important, I am confined to a wheelchair and it is much easier to have my food grown indoors than outside. I just bought my aerogarden and setting it up.
I live in Pennsylvania. We have a short grow season like others. I have a harvest for herbs right now and its great for two people to have fresh herbs in our meals. We are buying the farm for spinach and tomatoes next. We both work alot of hours so these systems are what we need in life. I waste so much produce and money before i have time to eat it from buying at the store. I like that i can pick the plants little by little and enjoy food thats only been at my house.
That’s one of my favorite things too. A bag of spinach goes bad so fast in my fridge. But plants stay good for so long. I think you will love the Farm. It’s super automated
Realistically, I don't even care if these systems will save me money, what I care about is having a relatively stable supply of food for when I need it because here in Canada, our government is insane and doesn't like when people do things without government permission lol
Growing in Florida (with year round climate conducive for growing) is much different than Colorado with a short 3 month growing window. Besides, it is fun!
@@debbiebenson8447it is true that we can grow year round which is such a blessing but I think it’s a misconception that we can grow anything year round. Traditional veggies from the grocery store can only be grown in our winters. Then we have to switch to tropical vegetables that can handle the intense heat and humidity.
Other price factors I thought of were my precious time & gas for the car, going to the grocery store. I bought my Harvest for $73 during "prime days" and it's a pleasure to have fresh greens right here in my house. I made little treats with cream cheese & the basil from the Harvest for a lunch I attended last week and they were very well received. I copied the concept in my sunroom, building wire shelving with light strips over every level. I plant seeds in clay pots and cover them with little bowls (wedding party dept) I got from the dollar store. I put them on little plates (wedding party dept) from the dollar store and I water them once or twice a day. They are doing very well. I transplanted two basil aerogarden plants into soil and they are not doing so well. :( I am a wannabee farmer and am determined to learn to garden well.
I love my AeroGardens. There are always sales on the machines. The harvest are cheap. Just have to wait for it. A lot of people buy them second hand on Facebook market place or 2nd hand stores. I’ve seen them at Sam’s as well. The farm XL 24. I got mine at $325 last May. There is a Facebook group who the lady who runs it gives us links for deals all the time. I’ll never regret buying machines and I’ll be buying more. Herbs are expensive at the store but cost very little growing it in your AG. It can also be viewed as a hobby and that’s a cheap hobby compared to a lot others.
I bought some metal shelves at Costco, LED lights, a timer, and some trays from Bootstrap farmer and grow microgreens all the time. WAY cheaper than Aerogarden and there are tons of videos on UA-cam to show you exactly what to do.
I’ve been resistant to getting an indoor grow light system set up and I’m not really sure why. I’m pretty sure it would work just as well, if not better than my aerogardens but for some reason I haven’t flipped that switch yet. Maybe one day.
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a If you ever decide to go for it, there are tons of videos here on UA-cam for the right shelves and lights to buy. Reach out if you have any questions.
I've had my farm 24XL Plus for a couple years now and the winter month tomatoes are Key... Mine got over 450 days old before I moved. I got them back out again and producing within the first two months. Is fast and very consistant. All i have to do is feed and water it. My other one is a Bounty Basic which is 2 feet high or if I iput it on a twine. Its as high as i want over the garden... I have Piri Piri pepper plants in it from my own seed collection. Mint.. Just Mint. I love these things. The quickness and health of the plants is just awesome. Only bad thing ive had a problem is the water level guage go out and a water pump go out.. only 8 bucks for a new one.
That’s awesome. I’ve been having aphid issues in mine. I’m going to turn it off for a month or two and see if I can finally rid my house of those demons, lol
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a I'm in West Virginia.. I've not exerienced that problem yet. Then again theres no farming here where im at, at least. The plants are well inside away from the front door hehe. I'm just waiting to make some salsa with the Piri Piri and tomatoes. The tomatoes have produced so much and its barely 3 months old. I had to dehydrate a batch.
I have a 24Xl and a Bounty elite. My Tomato plant almost took over my kitchen. I'm wondering if making it with a 3D printer would I be able to make it with a larger water base on the bottom. I was thinking of making a Fifty-Five gallon fish tank to make it into a Aquaponic system
What a fantastic video! I picked up the harvest for $80 this prime day and want to grow herbs on my windowsill. I've been looking for videos on pruning, growing, ect. Your video of price breakdown and advice on future planting has made me feel pretty great about my purchase. Much more confident too😏
We have 2 of the small 6 pod units and grow almost exclusively peppers and herbs year round with everything else growing in the garden during the summer. Lately the cost of herbs has skyrocketed with a few small sprigs costing between $3-$6 dollars while my biggest problem currently is using enough fast enough in normal cooking. Basil in particular grows almost out of control very quickly. Peppers are slower, but again with a single plant putting off a dozen peppers and oddly enough reproducing several times before being replaced, I'm reasonably sure both of these units would have paid for themselves in less than a year.
I started with the basic farm a few months ago and quickly realized I wanted to try growing lots of different things. I looked on Facebook market place and found a Farm 24 XL for $200! Since then I found a Harvest for $50 and a Harvest Elite Slim for $60. I’m using the Slim for herbs, the harvest for spinach, the basic farm 24 for Romaine and Toy Bok Choy, and the Farm XL for sugar snap peas and fairy tale eggplants. I also found reusable pods on Etsyas well as a bunch of other useful things for Aerogardens. Hopefully it will turn out successfully. ❤
I just started my areogarden . I can’t wait. Just having herbs and stuff for a small salad is all I really want out of it. I don’t care about the money part of it. Buying for produce for one is really wasteful, no matter how hard I try. I like the idea that I am the only one that handles my food and it hasn’t been exposed to insecticides etc.
You sold me, Petrina! I did pick up the Harvest during Prime Day through your link, for $50 (I had already sent one as a gift to my daughter: she and her cat just adored it). The Grow Everything Kit came with 50 each of sponges, baskets, lids, plant labels plus 6 bottles of nutrients; baskets and lids are likely to last a long long time, and sponges can be had really inexpensively, not just on Amazon but you know that knock off internet vendor that ships everything in plastic bags? It is so much fun! Lettuce are growing fast, idk if chards just don't like germinating in light or what, but I am having such a great time so what does not come up will be a chance to grow something new. The unit is so bright, I have all my cuttings, and a tray of microgreens taking advantage and stretching that $1.33 electricity spending! LOL And guess where my seed starting trays are going for the fall garden? Also thinking that I might use it as my seed starter for the larger fruiting tomatoes for the fall winter; our storms usually disrupt my garden scheduling, so I think this will be a great insurance that I will have starts ready when I want them. Tiny, but mighty! And if I get it fully "paid off" I will get another for Black Friday. Thanks for another great video, and all the leg/brainwork behind it.
Wow. The grow anything kit must have gotten a lot bigger. That’s awesome. I do the same thing as you. I huddle other plants around my aerogarden to get the benefits. All mine are being used for seed starting right now and that will continue for a couple more months. Such heathy plants this way!
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a The 50 count Grow Anything Kit retails for $60, but Prime Day was less than $20; lots of knock offs available, but I just wanted the baskets to fit properly, so I "splurged" on the brand name kit. And, y'all, there were 50 of everything, I counted! Giving actual Prime Day costs so your viewers can price shop.
I picked up the Harvest Elite Slim on sale for $60 about 3 weeks ago. I was thinking that it would be a great, easy way to teach my 4y.o. daughter about how plants grow. Within those 3 weeks, we already have some big lettuce growth! To be honest, I would have been just as happy buying the Aerogarden at full price ($100 I believe?), so I'd say a couple of these little units should be plenty for most families. How about other options, like a rain tower or ebb and flow setup? These are popular diy setups and they are far more cost effective than even the Aerogarden! I would be interested to see a comparison on those too! Great video with a lovely and knowledgeable presenter!
Thanks for sharing this video. I've had to buy lettuce, salad greens and tomatoes for the first time this month since January. I'm going to start lettuce and tomato seeds in August for my fall garden. I don't have the room for one of these but I like the idea.
I purchased 4 Farm 12XL when they were on sale for $124.00. Yes Aerogarden had a GREAT sale and I wish I could have gotten more but I didn't have the room.
Love how you break down the math on everything. Thanks so much! So I got started with aerogarden for the seed starting trays that come for each of the different Aerogardens! I am in NFl & my lettuce in my Greenstalks froze & I was tired of buying seedlings all the time!! I started with the Harvest & bought seed starting tray for that which was Great 23 seedlings at a time! ThanI watch you assemble your Christmas present & was excited to find I could grow 85 seedlings in each side!!! Game changer! I waited for sale bought Basic Farm 24 for $274! Watch for sale for seed starting trays! You must try one
I was so close to getting them this month but I restrained myself 🤣 But they are definitely on my wish list for sure. I have them for my harvest but not the farm yet. I also have a couple Letpot systems that I’ve been using for seed starting too. This time of year, I am in full seed starting mode so they are so helpful AND the return on investment is soooo good when you use them instead of transplants. Transplants are going for $5-6 a piece!
15 month ROI is quite good i would say i just got a harvest 360 for free. have seeds and pods and rockwool and nutes already. so I'm thinking this is well worth the cost of power in my case hands down! + its a fun hobby
as always; great information...........I always learn new things by watching your videos........Thank you so much. I now know about how much electricity my Farm 12xl and my Harvest elite takes.....much appreciated Petrina.
I purchased a Tower Garden (32 plants)with grow lights and expect ROI in eighteen months. I grow lettuces and herbs year round. The main reason was to ensure a steady supply of organically grown produce at a reasonable price. Waste is nonexistent.
I got my Harvest for $20 at a bin store when everything is the same price, the box was busted up however everything was still inside the box and it wasn’t used 👌🏻
When calculating the grocery cost, did you compare the price to organic? I feel you should have, and they are more expensive that way, so it definitely matters in the calculation vs just regular store bought vegetables.
You are correct. It would be a better savings with organic. I compared to non organic, mainly because the liquid fertilizer that comes from aerogarden isn’t organic unfortunately. Although, there are no pesticides or herbicides so it’s pretty close.
I sold my Farm Plus....I had mold, I had bugs, way too much crowding. The only thing I like about my smaller Aerogarden system is to start sprouts. The plugs are expensive! It was easy to clean compared to my larger more productive systems I have used 7 different systems. I have moved on to an Opcom Grow Wall. Doing hydroponics is a lot of work. I haven't saved any money, but I have fresh vegetables year round! For many people, may of hydroponic systems available are too expensive.
I’ve been thinking about getting one of those wall grow systems but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. I buy the generic plugs. So much cheaper than aerogarden ones.
I think it is better to buy two harvest sized ones on sale. Im getting one first from an off brand and will do cilantro thai basil lettuce and bok choi. I'll probably do tomato starts by stem this spring to transplant outside though. A second pod would be good to add in fruit like ground cherries and cherry tomatoes to have throughout winter.
Thank you for this information. I just got an Aerogarden Harvest for my birthday (what a surprise!) and so will definitely see a return on my investment quite quickly. Already looking at how to reuse the pods so this was very helpful.
Thank you for the great video. The cut and come again I use with my salads also. I usually get 6-8 cuttings from each salad grow, Only take 1/3 of the salad at a time so it will keep growing and not get bitter. I would love to know what salad blend you use and, do you buy an ounce at a time of the seeds ?
Lately I’ve been using Johnny Seeds pelleted Gladius romaine lettuce. It does really well in the system. Next time I’ll skip the pelleted seeds but I like the variety.
Great video. I think if we also add the cost of electricity and water. That may be a good addition to your calculation. Even then buying organic herbs and veggies. Coupled with the cost of rising inflation. It is still better to grow your own food. Now health wise that another investment that not easy to account for. Very informative video makes you think. Thank you
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a No, Thank you! I have gotten so much wonderful information & help from you that is so valuable! I have reached out to other utuber’s that never answer any questions! You do a sensational job on your videos & more importantly you are a kind person. ❤️🙏I will be ordering the farm through your site when it goes on sale!
Thank you so much! Watching your video makes me want to dust off my decade and a half aero garden. This was super informative. What are your thoughts on using Florida-friendly crops or using it to extend the season (from indoor to outdoor) using the aero garden
I absolutely love using it to extend the season. I’m starting my tomatoes and peppers in it right now because it tends to be a little too hot and wet for them outside. It can be done but it’s so much easier starting them in the aerogardens. I move them outside once they are about 6 inches tall. Give it a shot 💚
Most of it is initial purchase. I purchased my Farm 24XL when they were on sale for under $200.00. This should bring my ROI a lot less since it seems to be the initial purchase.
Please help! I am using a knock off of Aerogarden. Your videos are what inspired me to try growing this way as I’d never even considered it before. My seedlings are looking great, but I need help transitioning them to soil outdoors. I need the step by step plan. (They’re mostly Brussels spouts, no good to me in water.). Thanks!
I did a video showing how I grow my tomatoes in the aerogarden. Towards the end of the video, I show how I transplanted them into pots. It would be the same process but instead of into a pot, you would put into its forever home - ua-cam.com/video/ti-9j0seNLg/v-deo.htmlsi=sLGItsW8h8zNXu6A
why dont you buy a 100W grow light for 30$, a storage bin for 5$ and a shelves unit for 15$. you can make a way superior setup than the Aerogarden thingy for 1/5 of the price.
15-21 months for a 100% ROI under the most conservative estimate sounds pretty good. You must be a value investor. Can you recommend other products with similar value propositions?
I thought so too. I was actually in IT but I did a lot of work determining predicted and actual ROI for products we built. I’m kind of a geek about it. I did another video on outdoor growing methods with their ROIs too. And I’m sure I’ll be doing more soon. 👩🌾
@HomegrownFloridaZ9a Yes, they are I own 3 aerogarden models. I have the harvest elite slim and the harvest elite, and I have the harvest farm 24 basic
Folks how much is your health worth eating nutrient rich fresh organic food?? We don’t put a dollar amount on staying healthy… my aero garden has arrived!! Using it for both food production and to be a seed starter for strong transplants into my garden!
No, not really. You should refresh the water once a month but that only takes a few minutes. Other than that, every once and awhile I trim off the dead leaves.
Truthfully, I am having a little trouble trying to calculate the return on investment if I bought a 12xl for $250 and only grew lettuce how long it would take for a return using your formula.
Aerogarden $250 Electric $7.30x3months = $21.90 Aerogarden seed kits $13.95 x 4kits to fill all the pods = $55.80 Total Cost - $327.70 Lettuce harvest 4oz with 3 cuts x 24 plants = 288oz or 18lbs So $4 for 8oz or $8lb x 18lbs = $144 $327.70/$144 = 2.25 seasons with a season being 3 months so about 7 months. Hope that helps
Hi Petrina; just curious; after the second feeding (28) days, and after draining your Farm 24, do you unplug the pump, remove the plants after draining the water or do you simply drain and refill? Thanks for your help.
I just drain and refill. I only take the plants out once they are finished. When they are finished, I cut the tops of the plants off, drain the system, and then unplug and lift the trays out. It makes it easier to lift. Usually I then just clean the trays, add new plants, refill, and plug back in.
I'm having trouble figuring out how you related the value of plants harvested to months. For example, when you say you can cut the lettuce three times for a total of 4.5 pounds, over what length of time does that harvest extend? I feel like you may be overestimating the time required to recover the cost of the initial investment.
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9aSo are you planting new seeds every six weeks? Or are you planting them every six weeks plus the 30 - 45 days until the first harvest? I want to calculate the ROI using my local electric rates (undoubtedly lower than yours) and food prices (probably much higher than yours.)
@paulagardner3218 the most conservative would be 45 days for 1st harvest then day 59 for the second harvest and then the final harvest at day 73. On that day, I start new seeds and start the cycle over again.
Doesn't save money, unless you dedicate a significant corner of your house solely to a grow op, and never stop figuring out ways to save money, such as saving your own seeds, buying cheaper grow pods, developing your own hand made nutrient blend, etc.
This video is outdated and wrong. You can buy the harvest new for around 70$. And, the farm for about 350$. That’s new, but used on marketplace, Craigslist, eBay you can find much cheaper. I bought 3 harvest models is excellent condition used for 25-30$ ea all day. Plus, this poster is wrong on the cost of using your own seeds. For example I purchased a 12 pod kit off Amazon for 5.99. Bought a pack of mixed lettuce seeds for 2.49. Now after I only need the grow pods which are cheap. So, I can have endlesss lettuce for the next 5 years for about 10$.
Thanks, Mai'a. Those petunias are beautiful. Mankind will, one day, colonize the Solar System and--eventually--the wider Galaxy beyond. I wonder if hydroponic systems will be part of that, or if some other method will be devised? I do know that, for Humans and plants to live off Earth, requires that the environment (for instance, a spacecraft or biodome on another planet or moon) a simulation of Earth's magnetic field must be provided.
My husband and I talk about that a lot. He’s really into space and I’m really into growing food so it’s a fun conversation. I’ve seen these huge hydroponics systems in airports. So cool.
Sorry but I totally disagree with your whole premise First of all your using local food cost in your area I’m sure I appreciate your effort but I just can’t agree with your assessment! I have grown outside as well and from where I am I lose more from insects birds etc not to mention all the preparation each season( I didn’t see you comment on that either) Yes the hydro aero garden comes at a cost but when I have over a foot of snow out my door I’ll gladly suffer with a hydroponic solution any ole day I also don’t fret about gee I might be losing ROI that was not my intention to grow hydroponic food sorry!!
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While saving money is important, I am confined to a wheelchair and it is much easier to have my food grown indoors than outside. I just bought my aerogarden and setting it up.
Great point! Thank you
I live in Pennsylvania. We have a short grow season like others. I have a harvest for herbs right now and its great for two people to have fresh herbs in our meals. We are buying the farm for spinach and tomatoes next. We both work alot of hours so these systems are what we need in life. I waste so much produce and money before i have time to eat it from buying at the store. I like that i can pick the plants little by little and enjoy food thats only been at my house.
That’s one of my favorite things too. A bag of spinach goes bad so fast in my fridge. But plants stay good for so long. I think you will love the Farm. It’s super automated
I had a harvest in the past and I had a drawf tomato that lasted over a year and was still productive.
That’s so cool. I grew tomatoes in mine a couple times but my hubby really dislikes the smell of tomato plants so I stopped growing them inside. 🙁
I’m going to experiment by starting my fall tomatoes in my rise garden and transplant out after 4 weeks
@@marilynearl6887 I think you will really like it!
Realistically, I don't even care if these systems will save me money, what I care about is having a relatively stable supply of food for when I need it because here in Canada, our government is insane and doesn't like when people do things without government permission lol
I will say that these systems are very effective in producing good quality food. One of the many reasons why I love them so much.
Growing in Florida (with year round climate conducive for growing) is much different than Colorado with a short 3 month growing window. Besides, it is fun!
@@debbiebenson8447it is true that we can grow year round which is such a blessing but I think it’s a misconception that we can grow anything year round. Traditional veggies from the grocery store can only be grown in our winters. Then we have to switch to tropical vegetables that can handle the intense heat and humidity.
Are you serious that the government gets involved with our food growing here in Canada? I think you’ve been sniffing the maple syrup!!
Order online food.. We order seeds for our needs from Canada
Other price factors I thought of were my precious time & gas for the car, going to the grocery store. I bought my Harvest for $73 during "prime days" and it's a pleasure to have fresh greens right here in my house. I made little treats with cream cheese & the basil from the Harvest for a lunch I attended last week and they were very well received. I copied the concept in my sunroom, building wire shelving with light strips over every level. I plant seeds in clay pots and cover them with little bowls (wedding party dept) I got from the dollar store. I put them on little plates (wedding party dept) from the dollar store and I water them once or twice a day. They are doing very well. I transplanted two basil aerogarden plants into soil and they are not doing so well. :( I am a wannabee farmer and am determined to learn to garden well.
Great points! I find that I use the veggies more often when it’s right in front of me in the house.
I love my AeroGardens. There are always sales on the machines. The harvest are cheap. Just have to wait for it. A lot of people buy them second hand on Facebook market place or 2nd hand stores. I’ve seen them at Sam’s as well. The farm XL 24. I got mine at $325 last May. There is a Facebook group who the lady who runs it gives us links for deals all the time. I’ll never regret buying machines and I’ll be buying more. Herbs are expensive at the store but cost very little growing it in your AG. It can also be viewed as a hobby and that’s a cheap hobby compared to a lot others.
Great suggestions. I don’t regret a single one. I’m up to 6 machines right now. One in every room 😂
I bought some metal shelves at Costco, LED lights, a timer, and some trays from Bootstrap farmer and grow microgreens all the time. WAY cheaper than Aerogarden and there are tons of videos on UA-cam to show you exactly what to do.
I’ve been resistant to getting an indoor grow light system set up and I’m not really sure why. I’m pretty sure it would work just as well, if not better than my aerogardens but for some reason I haven’t flipped that switch yet. Maybe one day.
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a If you ever decide to go for it, there are tons of videos here on UA-cam for the right shelves and lights to buy. Reach out if you have any questions.
@@prettyboy54321 You’re so sweet. Thank you. I might take you up on that
I've had my farm 24XL Plus for a couple years now and the winter month tomatoes are Key... Mine got over 450 days old before I moved. I got them back out again and producing within the first two months. Is fast and very consistant. All i have to do is feed and water it. My other one is a Bounty Basic which is 2 feet high or if I iput it on a twine. Its as high as i want over the garden... I have Piri Piri pepper plants in it from my own seed collection. Mint.. Just Mint. I love these things. The quickness and health of the plants is just awesome. Only bad thing ive had a problem is the water level guage go out and a water pump go out.. only 8 bucks for a new one.
That’s awesome. I’ve been having aphid issues in mine. I’m going to turn it off for a month or two and see if I can finally rid my house of those demons, lol
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a I'm in West Virginia.. I've not exerienced that problem yet. Then again theres no farming here where im at, at least. The plants are well inside away from the front door hehe. I'm just waiting to make some salsa with the Piri Piri and tomatoes. The tomatoes have produced so much and its barely 3 months old. I had to dehydrate a batch.
I have a 24Xl and a Bounty elite. My Tomato plant almost took over my kitchen. I'm wondering if making it with a 3D printer would I be able to make it with a larger water base on the bottom. I was thinking of making a Fifty-Five gallon fish tank to make it into a Aquaponic system
@@labmitch that’s an interesting idea. If you do it, let me know how it goes.
Thanks for the video and clearing up the hype on Aerogarden. Knowing where to save food money is a big plus in this over inflated economy.
It really is. Groceries are a big expense on the budget
Thank you for being honest.
Absolutely 💯
What a fantastic video! I picked up the harvest for $80 this prime day and want to grow herbs on my windowsill. I've been looking for videos on pruning, growing, ect. Your video of price breakdown and advice on future planting has made me feel pretty great about my purchase. Much more confident too😏
That’s awesome! I’m glad it was helpful
We have 2 of the small 6 pod units and grow almost exclusively peppers and herbs year round with everything else growing in the garden during the summer. Lately the cost of herbs has skyrocketed with a few small sprigs costing between $3-$6 dollars while my biggest problem currently is using enough fast enough in normal cooking. Basil in particular grows almost out of control very quickly. Peppers are slower, but again with a single plant putting off a dozen peppers and oddly enough reproducing several times before being replaced, I'm reasonably sure both of these units would have paid for themselves in less than a year.
Great job. It sounds like you are making a great return on investment with your aerogardens
Best Buy has the Farm 12XL for $249.99. I am not sure if I have enough room for anymore. Thanks for another great video.
Wow! That’s a great price. Thanks!
Is that the farm she advertised on Amazon?
@@lauraquigley6403 She has the 24 and Best Buy has the 12XL. This is the best deal right now for a AeroGarden.
I started with the basic farm a few months ago and quickly realized I wanted to try growing lots of different things. I looked on Facebook market place and found a Farm 24 XL for $200! Since then I found a Harvest for $50 and a Harvest Elite Slim for $60. I’m using the Slim for herbs, the harvest for spinach, the basic farm 24 for Romaine and Toy Bok Choy, and the Farm XL for sugar snap peas and fairy tale eggplants. I also found reusable pods on Etsyas well as a bunch of other useful things for Aerogardens. Hopefully it will turn out successfully. ❤
Wow! You got some great deals 💚
I agree! I'm going to wait on the hydroponics for now. Idon't have a lot of room or counterspace for anything else. Looks like a great idea.
I just started my areogarden . I can’t wait. Just having herbs and stuff for a small salad is all I really want out of it. I don’t care about the money part of it. Buying for produce for one is really wasteful, no matter how hard I try. I like the idea that I am the only one that handles my food and it hasn’t been exposed to insecticides etc.
That’s a great reason. I always think about the lettuce recalls due to bacteria and am grateful I grow my own.
You sold me, Petrina! I did pick up the Harvest during Prime Day through your link, for $50 (I had already sent one as a gift to my daughter: she and her cat just adored it). The Grow Everything Kit came with 50 each of sponges, baskets, lids, plant labels plus 6 bottles of nutrients; baskets and lids are likely to last a long long time, and sponges can be had really inexpensively, not just on Amazon but you know that knock off internet vendor that ships everything in plastic bags?
It is so much fun! Lettuce are growing fast, idk if chards just don't like germinating in light or what, but I am having such a great time so what does not come up will be a chance to grow something new. The unit is so bright, I have all my cuttings, and a tray of microgreens taking advantage and stretching that $1.33 electricity spending! LOL And guess where my seed starting trays are going for the fall garden? Also thinking that I might use it as my seed starter for the larger fruiting tomatoes for the fall winter; our storms usually disrupt my garden scheduling, so I think this will be a great insurance that I will have starts ready when I want them. Tiny, but mighty! And if I get it fully "paid off" I will get another for Black Friday.
Thanks for another great video, and all the leg/brainwork behind it.
Wow. The grow anything kit must have gotten a lot bigger. That’s awesome. I do the same thing as you. I huddle other plants around my aerogarden to get the benefits. All mine are being used for seed starting right now and that will continue for a couple more months. Such heathy plants this way!
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a The 50 count Grow Anything Kit retails for $60, but Prime Day was less than $20; lots of knock offs available, but I just wanted the baskets to fit properly, so I "splurged" on the brand name kit. And, y'all, there were 50 of everything, I counted! Giving actual Prime Day costs so your viewers can price shop.
Awesome deal! Great job lady
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a You are pushing me into new gardening zones! Thanks
Love that!
I picked up the Harvest Elite Slim on sale for $60 about 3 weeks ago. I was thinking that it would be a great, easy way to teach my 4y.o. daughter about how plants grow.
Within those 3 weeks, we already have some big lettuce growth!
To be honest, I would have been just as happy buying the Aerogarden at full price ($100 I believe?), so I'd say a couple of these little units should be plenty for most families.
How about other options, like a rain tower or ebb and flow setup? These are popular diy setups and they are far more cost effective than even the Aerogarden! I would be interested to see a comparison on those too!
Great video with a lovely and knowledgeable presenter!
Great idea. I’m looking into a few right now. Hopefully I can make that happen soon and I’ll share with you.
So interesting! Thank you, Petrina, for presenting this in an easy to understand way. Your videos are always so great! 🌱🌱❤️
💚 Thank you so much
Thanks for sharing this video. I've had to buy lettuce, salad greens and tomatoes for the first time this month since January. I'm going to start lettuce and tomato seeds in August for my fall garden. I don't have the room for one of these but I like the idea.
They can get pretty big, for sure.
I purchased 4 Farm 12XL when they were on sale for $124.00. Yes Aerogarden had a GREAT sale and I wish I could have gotten more but I didn't have the room.
That was an amazing deal. Can’t wait for the next one because I have my eye on a few more.
Love how you break down the math on everything. Thanks so much!
So I got started with aerogarden for the seed starting trays that come for each of the different Aerogardens!
I am in NFl & my lettuce in my Greenstalks froze & I was tired of buying seedlings all the time!!
I started with the Harvest & bought seed starting tray for that which was Great 23 seedlings at a time!
ThanI watch you assemble your Christmas present & was excited to find I could grow 85 seedlings in each side!!!
Game changer!
I waited for sale bought Basic Farm 24 for $274!
Watch for sale for seed starting trays! You must try one
I was so close to getting them this month but I restrained myself 🤣 But they are definitely on my wish list for sure. I have them for my harvest but not the farm yet. I also have a couple Letpot systems that I’ve been using for seed starting too. This time of year, I am in full seed starting mode so they are so helpful AND the return on investment is soooo good when you use them instead of transplants. Transplants are going for $5-6 a piece!
I have the Bounty Elite.
I will have fresh tomatoes and peppers this winter.
Nice! That’s the best
In Austin when it's 105 in August it's the only way to get fresh lettuce
Same here but in FL. It’s the best for summer lettuce
15 month ROI is quite good i would say i just got a harvest 360 for free. have seeds and pods and rockwool and nutes already. so I'm thinking this is well worth the cost of power in my case hands down! + its a fun hobby
Yes definitely! Your ROI started on day 1 🥳
Excellent video and breakdown of prices! I feel much more confident about getting one of these units. Thank you for your help!
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent video. You explained everything so well . Thank you I am looking forward to watching your other videos 😊
I’m so glad you enjoyed it
as always; great information...........I always learn new things by watching your videos........Thank you so much. I now know about how much electricity my Farm 12xl and my Harvest elite takes.....much appreciated Petrina.
My pleasure 💚
I purchased a Tower Garden (32 plants)with grow lights and expect ROI in eighteen months. I grow lettuces and herbs year round. The main reason was to ensure a steady supply of organically grown produce at a reasonable price. Waste is nonexistent.
I love those tower gardens. Maybe one day I’ll get one.
I got my Harvest for $20 at a bin store when everything is the same price, the box was busted up however everything was still inside the box and it wasn’t used 👌🏻
That’s a great deal!
I just got mine for $40 at goodwill. I was ecstatic and already have basil and lettuce growing
@@stephaniedouglas9510 great deal!
Thanks for this video it is definitely eye opening 😮
For me too. These types of videos always end up surprising me.
Thank you so much! This was extremely informative!
Glad it was helpful!
When calculating the grocery cost, did you compare the price to organic? I feel you should have, and they are more expensive that way, so it definitely matters in the calculation vs just regular store bought vegetables.
You are correct. It would be a better savings with organic. I compared to non organic, mainly because the liquid fertilizer that comes from aerogarden isn’t organic unfortunately. Although, there are no pesticides or herbicides so it’s pretty close.
I sold my Farm Plus....I had mold, I had bugs, way too much crowding. The only thing I like about my smaller Aerogarden system is to start sprouts. The plugs are expensive! It was easy to clean compared to my larger more productive systems I have used 7 different systems. I have moved on to an Opcom Grow Wall. Doing hydroponics is a lot of work. I haven't saved any money, but I have fresh vegetables year round! For many people, may of hydroponic systems available are too expensive.
I’ve been thinking about getting one of those wall grow systems but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. I buy the generic plugs. So much cheaper than aerogarden ones.
$1.33/ month for electricity??
if that’s true this is nothing!! Is this from a Dependable source?
Also, your time on this is really appreciated!
It got the info from Aerogarden and then compared it to my electric usage/cost and it seems about right.
I think it is better to buy two harvest sized ones on sale. Im getting one first from an off brand and will do cilantro thai basil lettuce and bok choi. I'll probably do tomato starts by stem this spring to transplant outside though. A second pod would be good to add in fruit like ground cherries and cherry tomatoes to have throughout winter.
I haven’t tried ground cherries in the aerogarden. Let me know how that works 💚
Thank you for this information. I just got an Aerogarden Harvest for my birthday (what a surprise!) and so will definitely see a return on my investment quite quickly. Already looking at how to reuse the pods so this was very helpful.
Yay! I hope you enjoy it! Happy birthday 🎉
Thank you for the great video. The cut and come again I use with my salads also. I usually get 6-8 cuttings from each salad grow, Only take 1/3 of the salad at a time so it will keep growing and not get bitter. I would love to know what salad blend you use and, do you buy an ounce at a time of the seeds ?
Lately I’ve been using Johnny Seeds pelleted Gladius romaine lettuce. It does really well in the system. Next time I’ll skip the pelleted seeds but I like the variety.
Great video. I think if we also add the cost of electricity and water. That may be a good addition to your calculation. Even then buying organic herbs and veggies. Coupled with the cost of rising inflation. It is still better to grow your own food. Now health wise that another investment that not easy to account for. Very informative video makes you think. Thank you
My pleasure. I’m glad you enjoyed it
Love all that you do! Thank you for your knowledge!🙏🥰🙏Blessing’s
Thank you so much!
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a No, Thank you! I have gotten so much wonderful information & help from you that is so valuable! I have reached out to other utuber’s that never answer any questions! You do a sensational job on your videos & more importantly you are a kind person. ❤️🙏I will be ordering the farm through your site when it goes on sale!
@@lauraquigley6403 That is so sweet of you to say. I really appreciate that. It’s such an encouragement for me. 💚
Thank you so much! Watching your video makes me want to dust off my decade and a half aero garden. This was super informative.
What are your thoughts on using Florida-friendly crops or using it to extend the season (from indoor to outdoor) using the aero garden
I absolutely love using it to extend the season. I’m starting my tomatoes and peppers in it right now because it tends to be a little too hot and wet for them outside. It can be done but it’s so much easier starting them in the aerogardens. I move them outside once they are about 6 inches tall. Give it a shot 💚
Most of it is initial purchase. I purchased my Farm 24XL when they were on sale for under $200.00. This should bring my ROI a lot less since it seems to be the initial purchase.
Very true. You got a great deal!
Dang it Petrina, another thing added to my wish list 😂. Thanks for the gteat info
🤣 I have a long wish list too
Please help! I am using a knock off of Aerogarden. Your videos are what inspired me to try growing this way as I’d never even considered it before. My seedlings are looking great, but I need help transitioning them to soil outdoors. I need the step by step plan. (They’re mostly Brussels spouts, no good to me in water.). Thanks!
I did a video showing how I grow my tomatoes in the aerogarden. Towards the end of the video, I show how I transplanted them into pots. It would be the same process but instead of into a pot, you would put into its forever home - ua-cam.com/video/ti-9j0seNLg/v-deo.htmlsi=sLGItsW8h8zNXu6A
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a thank you!!
why dont you buy a 100W grow light for 30$, a storage bin for 5$ and a shelves unit for 15$. you can make a way superior setup than the Aerogarden thingy for 1/5 of the price.
It's cheaper to build one with LED tubes and plastic boxes and pool noodles as plant holders
15-21 months for a 100% ROI under the most conservative estimate sounds pretty good. You must be a value investor. Can you recommend other products with similar value propositions?
I thought so too. I was actually in IT but I did a lot of work determining predicted and actual ROI for products we built. I’m kind of a geek about it. I did another video on outdoor growing methods with their ROIs too. And I’m sure I’ll be doing more soon. 👩🌾
I love aerogarden im planing on getting an aerogarden farm 24xl soon i have the basic farm
They are addicting!
@HomegrownFloridaZ9a Yes, they are I own 3 aerogarden models. I have the harvest elite slim and the harvest elite, and I have the harvest farm 24 basic
@mikesworldtv I’m about to add a bounty and a slim once I see they have gone on sale. Basically one in every room 🤣
@HomegrownFloridaZ9a good thing there on sale now for Labor Day
@@mikesworldtv I did not know that. I just went and bought 2 more 🤦♀️
Folks how much is your health worth eating nutrient rich fresh organic food?? We don’t put a dollar amount on staying healthy… my aero garden has arrived!! Using it for both food production and to be a seed starter for strong transplants into my garden!
I love using mine for seed starting too!
Don't these create a lot of extra cleaning?
No, not really. You should refresh the water once a month but that only takes a few minutes. Other than that, every once and awhile I trim off the dead leaves.
Don’t forget that food from freshly grown at home is much more nutrious than store brought
Truthfully, I am having a little trouble trying to calculate the return on investment if I bought a 12xl for $250 and only grew lettuce how long it would take for a return using your formula.
Aerogarden $250
Electric $7.30x3months = $21.90
Aerogarden seed kits $13.95 x 4kits to fill all the pods = $55.80
Total Cost - $327.70
Lettuce harvest 4oz with 3 cuts x 24 plants = 288oz or 18lbs
So $4 for 8oz or $8lb x 18lbs = $144
$327.70/$144 = 2.25 seasons with a season being 3 months so about 7 months. Hope that helps
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a Thank you!
No, but they’re a hell of a lot of fun. Unless you cook with herbs and you grow those instead of buying them.
Hi Petrina; just curious; after the second feeding (28) days, and after draining your Farm 24, do you unplug the pump, remove the plants after draining the water or do you simply drain and refill? Thanks for your help.
I just drain and refill. I only take the plants out once they are finished. When they are finished, I cut the tops of the plants off, drain the system, and then unplug and lift the trays out. It makes it easier to lift. Usually I then just clean the trays, add new plants, refill, and plug back in.
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a That helps me a lot thank you very much
I'm having trouble figuring out how you related the value of plants harvested to months. For example, when you say you can cut the lettuce three times for a total of 4.5 pounds, over what length of time does that harvest extend? I feel like you may be overestimating the time required to recover the cost of the initial investment.
I can usually harvest 3 times within 6 weeks. So 2 weeks between each harvest. My first harvest is usually at the 30-45 day mark.
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9aSo are you planting new seeds every six weeks? Or are you planting them every six weeks plus the 30 - 45 days until the first harvest? I want to calculate the ROI using my local electric rates (undoubtedly lower than yours) and food prices (probably much higher than yours.)
@paulagardner3218 the most conservative would be 45 days for 1st harvest then day 59 for the second harvest and then the final harvest at day 73. On that day, I start new seeds and start the cycle over again.
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a Thanks, this is just what I needed.
My pleasure 💚
Doesn't save money, unless you dedicate a significant corner of your house solely to a grow op, and never stop figuring out ways to save money, such as saving your own seeds, buying cheaper grow pods, developing your own hand made nutrient blend, etc.
You can build your own larger more powerful and way cheaper
Agreed but I do like the convenience and all the alerts and reminders.
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a that is definitely convenient
Thanks for sharing! I'm sorry...but I just HAVE to say that you look like Jenna Lyon's doppelganger from RHONY....;)
Haha. I’ve been told that before. I’ve never watched the show before but she seems nice 😊
@@HomegrownFloridaZ9a Glad I'm not the first one! LOL 😆
This video is outdated and wrong. You can buy the harvest new for around 70$. And, the farm for about 350$. That’s new, but used on marketplace, Craigslist, eBay you can find much cheaper. I bought 3 harvest models is excellent condition used for 25-30$ ea all day.
Plus, this poster is wrong on the cost of using your own seeds. For example I purchased a 12 pod kit off Amazon for 5.99. Bought a pack of mixed lettuce seeds for 2.49. Now after I only need the grow pods which are cheap. So, I can have endlesss lettuce for the next 5 years for about 10$.
Thanks. I'll pass.
Thanks, Mai'a. Those petunias are beautiful. Mankind will, one day, colonize the Solar System and--eventually--the wider Galaxy beyond. I wonder if hydroponic systems will be part of that, or if some other method will be devised? I do know that, for Humans and plants to live off Earth, requires that the environment (for instance, a spacecraft or biodome on another planet or moon) a simulation of Earth's magnetic field must be provided.
My husband and I talk about that a lot. He’s really into space and I’m really into growing food so it’s a fun conversation. I’ve seen these huge hydroponics systems in airports. So cool.
Sorry but I totally disagree with your whole premise
First of all your using local food cost in your area I’m sure
I appreciate your effort but I just can’t agree with your assessment! I have grown outside as well and from where I am I lose more from insects birds etc not to mention all the preparation each season( I didn’t see you comment on that either)
Yes the hydro aero garden comes at a cost but when I have over a foot of snow out my door I’ll gladly suffer with a hydroponic solution any ole day
I also don’t fret about gee I might be losing ROI that was not my intention to grow hydroponic food sorry!!