Q: I live in a small apartment with low light sources, so lately I have been examining two indoor soilless gardening solutions: hyrdoponics and aeroponics based. Which is best? What are the benefits and disadvantages of systems like Prepara and Aero Grow?
Sent by Tyler
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(Image: Prepara)
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Comments (1)
I have four AeroGardens (two 3-pod systems, a huge VeggiePro and the SpaceSaver6) and why they are a blast, esp in winter, they are not cost-effective in the slightest. They are fun, easy to "run" but will run about $2 extra a month in utilities. You will not save any money by using these.
They are a fun, but expensive hobby. You can offset future costs by 1) using your own seeds, 2) reusing the plastic seed holders and 3) buying cheaper nutrients from 3rd party vendors. However, the lights cannot be had any cheaper than about $8 a piece and they are proprietary, so there's no substituting.
Fortunately, AeroGrow has reduced the prices on just about everything, making them slightly more affordable for everyone.
Advantages: fun factor, growing your own, winter gardening, fun conversation piece, fresh veggies and herbs, growing without dirt, growing indoors.
Disadvantages: cost of units, cost of lights, expensive veggies and herbs.
Hope this helps you make your decision!