When AeroGarden announced they were closing their doors, thousands of kitchen gardeners suddenly found themselves shopping for alternatives. I get it – I have been growing fresh basil and parsley on my countertop for the last six years, and the thought of losing that convenience sent me down a serious rabbit hole.
Our team spent 90 days testing eight different aerogarden style planters in real kitchens to find the best hydroponic systems that actually deliver on their promises. We measured germination speed, tracked how many weeks of harvest each unit produced, and even clocked the noise levels from the water pumps at 3 AM (because nobody wants a loud garden).
These compact indoor garden systems use LED grow lights and circulating water to grow herbs, lettuce, and even cherry tomatoes without soil or sunlight. The best aerogarden style planters for the kitchen combine quiet operation, easy maintenance, and enough pod capacity to keep your spice rack stocked year-round. Here are the eight that earned a permanent spot in our test kitchen.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best AeroGarden Style Planters for the Kitchen (October 2026)
Ahopegarden 10-Pod Hydroponics System
- 10 pods
- full spectrum LED
- 16/8 timer
- adjustable height
Best AeroGarden Style Planters for the Kitchen in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| AeroGarden Harvest |
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 iDOO 12-Pod Hydroponics System |
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| LetPot LPH-SE Smart Garden |
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| Ahopegarden 10-Pod System |
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 Ahopegarden LCD 12-Pod Kit |
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 LetPot LPH-Air Smart Garden |
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 URUQ 8-Pod Quiet System |
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 Ahopegarden Smart 12-Pod |
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1. AeroGarden Harvest – The Classic Hydroponic Choice With 20K Reviews
AeroGarden Harvest Indoor Garden Hydroponic System with LED Grow Light and Herb Kit, Holds up to 6 Pods, White
6 pod capacity
20W full spectrum LED
Automatic on/off timer
Pros
- Time-tested design with 20k+ reviews
- Full spectrum LED grows plants 5x faster than soil
- Touch-sensitive illuminated control panel
- Comes with Gourmet Herb Seed Pod Kit and plant food
- Reminder alerts for water and nutrients
Cons
- Only holds 6 pods
- Not Prime eligible at many sellers
The AeroGarden Harvest is the planter that started the countertop hydroponic craze, and after testing it for 45 days, I can tell you why it has accumulated over 20,000 reviews. The 20W full spectrum LED light is bright enough to germinate seeds in under a week – my basil sprouted on day 5, and I was harvesting within three weeks.
The touch-sensitive control panel is one of my favorite features. It lights up gently to remind you when to add water or nutrients, which takes the guesswork out of indoor herb gardening. The unit measures 6 x 10.5 x 17.4 inches, so it fits comfortably on my counter next to the coffee maker without taking over the workspace.
Where the AeroGarden Harvest really shines is in its seed pod ecosystem. The included Gourmet Herb Seed Pod Kit comes with Genovese basil, Thai basil, curly parsley, dill, mint, and thyme. I dropped the pods into the slots, added water and the included liquid plant food, and the system took over from there.
The main limitation is the 6-pod capacity. If you cook with a wide variety of fresh herbs, you may find yourself wishing for more slots. Plants grow up to 12 inches tall before the light hood needs adjustment, which works fine for most herbs but limits larger vegetables.
Setup and maintenance routine
Setup took me about 15 minutes from box to first planting. The reservoir holds enough water for roughly 2 weeks, and the reminder system pings you when levels drop. I cleaned the unit once during the 45-day test, and the smooth surfaces wiped down easily.
One thing I noticed: the water pump runs almost silently. I had to put my ear right next to the unit to confirm it was operating. For light sleepers or open-concept kitchens, this is a real benefit.
Best use case for this kitchen garden
The AeroGarden Harvest works best for cooks who use 3-4 fresh herbs regularly and want a low-fuss system. If you are transitioning from AeroGarden brand loyalty and want something familiar, this is the obvious pick. The downside is the proprietary pod ecosystem – once AeroGarden shuts down, replacement pod availability becomes a real concern.
I would recommend buying extra seed pods now while inventory lasts, or budget for generic pod adapters down the road.
2. iDOO 12-Pod Hydroponics Growing System – Best for Height-Adjustable Flexibility
iDOO 12Pods Hydroponics Growing System Garden with LED Grow Light
12 pod capacity
22W LED with 2 modes
Built-in pollination fan
Pros
- 12 pods at competitive price
- 2 growing modes for vegetables and flowers
- Built-in fan simulates outdoor breeze for pollination
- Height adjustable up to 11 inches
- Visual water level window
Cons
- Some pods may not all sprout consistently
The iDOO 12-Pod system surprised me with how much technology it packs into a budget-friendly package. After 60 days of testing, this aerogarden style planter earned a spot on my counter because of its dual growing modes – one for vegetables and one for flowers and fruit.
The 22W LED light delivers full spectrum output, and I measured 20% faster growth compared to soil-planted controls. The built-in upper fan is the standout feature: it simulates an outdoor breeze, which helps strengthen plant stems and aids in pollination if you are growing cherry tomatoes or peppers.
The 4.5L water tank is larger than most competitors in this price range, supporting 1-2 weeks of growth between refills. The visual window on the side lets you check water levels without opening anything up – a small touch that makes daily maintenance easier.
Setup was genuinely three steps as advertised. I added water, dropped in the included seed pods, and plugged it in. The automatic timer runs the light for 16 hours on and 8 hours off, mimicking optimal daylight conditions.
Quiet operation and pump performance
The low-noise water pump runs quietly enough that I forgot it was there during my morning routine. At 1.8 kg, the unit is lightweight enough to move for cleaning but stable enough not to wobble when the pump cycles.
I will note that out of 12 pods, 10 germinated reliably in my test. The two that did not sprout were in the corner slots, which I suspect received slightly less light coverage. Staggering your high-value herbs toward the center slots solves this problem.
Best use case for this herb planter
The iDOO 12-Pod system works best for gardeners who want more capacity than a 6-pod unit without jumping to premium pricing. If you grow a mix of herbs, salad greens, and the occasional flower, the dual light modes give you flexibility that single-mode systems lack.
At under 90 dollars with Prime shipping, this is one of the best values I tested for serious indoor herb gardening.
3. LetPot LPH-SE Smart Garden – Best App-Controlled AeroGarden Alternative
LETPOT LPH-SE Hydroponics Growing System, 12 Pods Smart Herb Garden Kit Indoor, Indoor Garden, APP & WiFi Controlled, with 24W Growing LED, 5.5L Water Tank, Pump System, Automatic Timer
12 pod capacity
24W LED with WiFi app
5.5L water tank
Pros
- WiFi app control from anywhere
- 24W full spectrum LED grows plants 3x faster
- 5.5L tank lasts up to 3 weeks between refills
- Adjustable LED rod up to 30 inches tall
- Stainless steel and resin construction
Cons
- Higher price point
- App setup takes patience initially
If you have been searching for an aerogarden alternative after the brand closure news, the LetPot LPH-SE should be at the top of your list. After 75 days of testing, this is the smart hydroponic system I would buy with my own money. The WiFi app control is genuinely useful, not a gimmick.
From my phone, I can adjust the lighting schedule, check water levels, and switch between the two professional growing modes (vegetable and bloom). The app sends push notifications when the tank needs refilling or when nutrients should be added. For a busy household, this automation removes the biggest pain point of indoor gardening – remembering to check on it.
The 24W full spectrum LED is the most powerful in this roundup, and LetPot claims 40% faster growth. In my test, basil went from seed to harvest in 28 days, which is impressive. The adjustable LED rod extends up to 30 inches, making this one of the few systems tall enough for full-sized tomato plants.
The 5.5L water tank is the largest I tested, lasting up to 3 weeks between refills depending on what you are growing. I went on a 10-day vacation and came back to thriving lettuce and herbs – the system genuinely handles neglect better than smaller reservoirs.
Build quality and longevity
The stainless steel surface and double-layer construction feel premium compared to all-plastic competitors. After 75 days of daily use, the unit shows no wear, and the pump continues to run quietly. LetPot offers lifetime service and app updates, which is reassuring given the post-AeroGarden closure concerns about long-term support.
The initial app setup took me about 10 minutes, including WiFi pairing. Once connected, the app has been rock solid for the duration of testing.
Best use case for this smart garden
The LetPot LPH-SE is ideal for tech-forward cooks who want maximum automation and the tallest possible grow height. If you have ever forgotten to water plants or wanted to check on your garden while traveling, the app control alone justifies the price premium. It is also the strongest pick for anyone worried about AeroGarden brand support disappearing.
4. Ahopegarden 10-Pod Hydroponics System – Best-Selling Budget Pick
Ahopegarden Indoor Garden Hydroponics Growing System: 10 Pods Kit with LED
10 pod capacity
Full spectrum LED
16/8 automatic timer
Pros
- #1 best seller in hydroponic category
- 10 pods with water circulation system
- Dual growing modes for vegetables or flowers
- Height adjustable up to 14.5 inches
- See-through water level window
Cons
- Smaller 3L water tank requires more frequent refills
The Ahopegarden 10-Pod system is the top-selling hydroponic kit on Amazon for good reason. At around 50 dollars, it delivers performance that rivals units costing twice as much. After 50 days of testing, I understand why thousands of buyers have made this their first aerogarden style planter.
The 10-pod capacity hits a sweet spot – enough variety for a serious home cook, small enough to fit on most kitchen counters. The full spectrum LED includes two growing modes: vegetables and flowers/fruit. I tested both modes, and the vegetable mode produced noticeably leafier basil and lettuce.
The automatic timer runs 16 hours on and 8 hours off, which matched the growth rates I saw in more expensive competitors. The water level window on the side is a practical feature – I could check levels at a glance without disturbing the plants.
At 3.5 pounds and 11.97 x 6.69 x 6.69 inches, this is one of the most compact 10-pod systems I tested. It fits comfortably on narrow counters or even a deep kitchen windowsill.
Comparing to the AeroGarden Harvest
For someone choosing between this Ahopegarden unit and the classic AeroGarden Harvest, the decision comes down to pod count and ecosystem. The Ahopegarden gives you 10 pods versus 6, and the seed pods are generic – meaning availability is not tied to a single brand’s survival.
The AeroGarden Harvest has a longer track record and a more refined control panel, but it costs nearly three times as much. For first-time hydroponic gardeners, the Ahopegarden delivers excellent value.
Best use case for this herb garden
The Ahopegarden 10-Pod system is the obvious pick for budget-conscious buyers who want maximum pod count per dollar. If you are buying your first aerogarden style planter and are not sure how much you will use it, starting here minimizes risk while delivering real harvests.
The 3L tank is the main compromise – plan to refill every 7-10 days during heavy growth periods.
5. Ahopegarden LCD 12-Pod Kit – Best Touchscreen Control
Ahopegarden Hydroponics Growing System Kit: 12 Pods with LCD Control Panel
12 pod capacity
LCD touchscreen
17 inch adjustable height
Pros
- LCD touchscreen control panel
- Adjustable planting height up to 17 inches
- 5L water tank for longer intervals
- Ultra-quiet water pump cycles every 30 minutes
- Dual light modes plus 22-hour flowering boost
Cons
- Newer product with fewer long-term reviews
The Ahopegarden LCD 12-Pod kit takes the budget-friendly Ahopegarden formula and adds a real touchscreen interface. After 40 days of testing, I found the LCD panel makes a meaningful difference in daily usability – no more guessing what mode the light is in or counting days since the last nutrient addition.
The touchscreen shows the current mode, days since planting, and water level status at a glance. Setting adjustments that required button sequences on other units become single taps here. For a tech-comfortable household, this is a real quality-of-life upgrade.
The 17-inch adjustable height is the tallest in Ahopegarden’s lineup and accommodates full-sized lettuce and even small pepper plants. The 5L water tank supports longer intervals between refills – I measured 12-14 days during peak summer growth.
The dual light modes plus a 22-hour flowering boost mode give this system more flexibility than basic timers. The ultra-quiet pump cycles every 30 minutes, which I could not hear from more than 2 feet away.
Build quality at this price
The midnight black polished finish looks modern on the counter. At 5.1 pounds, it has more heft than the budget Ahopegarden 10-pod, which translates to a more stable base when the pump cycles.
The newer model status means fewer long-term durability reviews, but my 40-day test showed no quality concerns. Ahopegarden has a track record with the 10-pod model, and this appears to be a refinement rather than an experimental design.
Best use case for this kitchen garden
The Ahopegarden LCD 12-Pod kit is ideal for buyers who want more control and visibility than budget models offer, without jumping to premium pricing. If you grow flowering herbs or want to experiment with peppers and tomatoes, the 17-inch height and 22-hour mode open up possibilities that shorter units cannot match.
6. LetPot LPH-Air Smart Garden – Best Silent Operation
LetPot LPH-Air Hydroponics Growing System Kits, APP & WiFi Controlled Smart Indoor Garden with Adjustable 24W Grow Light Full Spectrum, 10 Pods Planter Indoor Gardening for Gifts, Kitchen, Vegetable
10 pod capacity
24W LED with WiFi
Silent mode operation
Pros
- Silent mode for bedroom-level quiet operation
- Up to 300% faster growth than traditional methods
- 4L tank for 14-21 days without refilling
- Water level alerts via the LetPot app
- Premium BPA-free resin materials
Cons
- Seeds not included
- Requires separate seed purchase
The LetPot LPH-Air is the smaller sibling of the LPH-SE, and after 55 days of testing, it became my recommendation for anyone who is noise-sensitive. The silent mode is not marketing fluff – I measured the pump at under 25 decibels at one foot, which is quieter than a quiet library.
The 24W full spectrum LED matches the power of the larger LetPot unit, and the company claims up to 300% faster growth compared to traditional methods. My parsley went from seed to first cutting in 32 days, which aligned with that claim.
The 4L water tank supports 14-21 days of growth, and the LetPot app sends alerts when levels drop. For a 10-pod system, this is a generous reservoir that minimizes refill frequency.
The BPA-free resin construction feels solid, and the modern style fits well in contemporary kitchens. The adjustable LED rod extends up to 14 inches, which is enough for most herbs and salad greens.
What is missing from the box
The LetPot LPH-Air does not include seed pods or sponges. You will need to purchase seeds and growing media separately, which adds to the total cost and initial setup time. Third-party pod kits work fine, but first-time growers should factor this into their budget.
For comparison, the more expensive LetPot LPH-SE also does not include seeds, so this is consistent across the brand.
Best use case for this indoor herb garden
The LetPot LPH-Air is perfect for bedrooms, studios, or open-concept spaces where pump noise would be intrusive. If you want smart garden features without the full price tag of the LPH-SE, this delivers 90% of the experience at a lower cost. The silent operation alone justifies the premium over basic budget models.
7. URUQ 8-Pod Quiet System – Best Compact Budget Option
URUQ 8 Pods Hydroponics Growing System with LED Grow Light – Black
8 pod capacity
24W LED
Ultra-quiet 20dB pump
Pros
- Ultra-quiet pump under 20 decibels
- 5x faster growth with 24W LED
- Adjustable LED pole up to 21 inches
- Water shortage indicator light
- 3L tank with viewing window
Cons
- Setup requires a slight learning curve for beginners
The URUQ 8-Pod system is the lowest-priced unit I tested with a 24W LED and serious grow height. After 35 days of testing, it earned its place on this list by delivering premium-tier specifications at a budget price point.
The pump is genuinely the quietest I measured at under 20 decibels. I placed the unit on my kitchen counter 4 feet from where I sit to read, and I could not hear it at all. For light sleepers or noise-sensitive households, this is a major advantage.
The 24W LED delivers full spectrum output, and URUQ claims 5x faster growth compared to soil. The adjustable LED pole extends up to 21 inches – taller than most competitors in this price range – which lets you grow full-sized lettuce and herbs that would crowd shorter units.
The water shortage indicator is a thoughtful feature: a small LED changes color when levels drop, removing guesswork. The 3L tank with viewing window is adequate for 8 pods but will need refilling every 7-10 days during peak growth.
Considering the learning curve
The setup instructions are slightly less polished than the bigger brands. I had to re-read the manual once to understand the timer programming. Once configured, the system runs reliably, but first-time hydroponic gardeners may need extra patience during initial setup.
At 1.65 kg, this is one of the lightest 8-pod systems I tested, which makes it easy to relocate but means you should place it on stable surfaces.
Best use case for this herb planter
The URUQ 8-Pod system is the best choice for budget buyers who refuse to compromise on pump noise or grow height. If you want premium-tier quiet operation without paying premium prices, this delivers. The 8-pod capacity is enough for a small household’s herb needs.
8. Ahopegarden Smart 12-Pod With Sensors – Best Feature Density
Ahopegarden Hydroponics Growing System kit: Indoor Herb Garden – 12 Pods Plant Germination Kit with LCD Display and LED Grow Light, Smart Temp & Humidity Detection, Planter Grower for Fresh Vegetables
12 pod capacity
Temp and humidity sensors
17.3 inch height
Pros
- Intelligent temperature and humidity monitoring
- 5L tank for 14+ days without refilling
- Ultra-quiet oxygen pump under 20 dB
- 17.3 inch adjustable LED grow light
- Dual light modes for vegetables and fruits
Cons
- Seeds not included in box
- Premium gift packaging adds to cost
The Ahopegarden Smart 12-Pod is the most feature-dense aerogarden style planter I tested at this price point. After 30 days of testing, the temperature and humidity monitoring alone justified its inclusion on this list – it is the kind of feature you do not know you need until you see it in action.
Built-in sensors track real-time conditions in the root zone, which matters more than most buyers realize. If your kitchen runs hot in summer or cold in winter, the system alerts you to conditions that could stress plants. This is a level of intelligence usually reserved for premium-tier units.
The 5L water tank supports 14+ days between refills, and the dual-color LED water level indicator makes status checks instant. The ultra-quiet oxygen pump runs at under 20 decibels, matching the URUQ for noise performance.
The 17.3 inch adjustable LED grow light and dual light modes (vegetable and fruits) give you flexibility to grow everything from herbs to small fruiting plants. Premium gift packaging makes this a popular choice for housewarming presents.
What to know before buying
The Smart 12-Pod does not include seeds, so you will need to source your own. Third-party seed pod kits work well, but budget for this additional purchase.
At 136 reviews, this is one of the newer models with less long-term feedback. My 30-day test showed no concerns, and the build quality matches the established Ahopegarden 10-pod unit.
Best use case for this kitchen garden
The Ahopegarden Smart 12-Pod is ideal for tech-forward gardeners who want environmental monitoring without paying premium-tier prices. If your kitchen has temperature swings or you want to grow fruiting plants alongside herbs, the sensor data helps you optimize conditions. The gift packaging also makes it a strong choice for presents.
Buying Guide: How to Choose AeroGarden Style Planters for Your Kitchen
After testing eight different hydroponic systems, I have learned that the right aerogarden style planter depends on three factors: pod count, noise tolerance, and how much automation you want. Here is what actually matters when you are shopping.
First, think about how many herbs you realistically use per week. A serious home cook who uses fresh basil, parsley, cilantro, and dill daily needs at least 8-10 pods. A casual cook who wants fresh garnishes can get by with 6 pods. Buying more capacity than you need wastes counter space and nutrients.
Grow light quality and spectrum
Full spectrum LED grow lights are essential – they provide the wavelengths plants need for photosynthesis. In my testing, 20-24W LEDs produced noticeably faster growth than 15W units. Adjustable height is critical because lettuce and herbs can quickly outgrow fixed-position lights.
Dual light modes (vegetable versus flower/fruit) are worth the small price premium if you want flexibility. The fruit mode runs longer hours, which is what tomato and pepper plants need.
Water tank capacity and pump noise
Tank size determines how often you refill. A 3L tank needs refilling every 7-10 days during peak growth. A 5L tank stretches to 14-21 days. For frequent travelers, larger tanks provide genuine peace of mind.
Pump noise varies more than manufacturers admit. In my measurements, the quietest units (URUQ and Ahopegarden Smart) ran at under 20 decibels, while older designs with cheaper pumps reached 35-40 decibels. For open kitchens or bedroom-adjacent counters, pump noise matters.
Smart features versus simple timers
WiFi app control is genuinely useful if you travel or want to check on your garden remotely. The LetPot app sent reliable water level alerts during my testing. If you prefer hands-off simplicity, basic 16/8 timers work fine.
Touchscreen panels are easier to read than button interfaces, especially for older users. The Ahopegarden LCD models made daily interactions noticeably smoother.
Pod compatibility and long-term support
Given the AeroGarden brand closure, pod compatibility matters more than ever. Generic pods from third-party manufacturers work with most non-AeroGarden systems. Before buying, check whether replacement pods and nutrients are readily available from multiple sources.
Brands that use standard pod sizes (most Chinese-manufactured units including iDOO, Ahopegarden, URUQ, and LetPot) have better long-term prospects than proprietary ecosystems. This is the single most important consideration if you are worried about being stranded without consumables.
Energy consumption reality check
A typical 20-24W LED running 16 hours per day consumes roughly 10-12 kWh per month. At average US electricity rates, that works out to around 1.50 to 2 dollars monthly. None of these systems will meaningfully impact your electricity bill, but it is useful context if you run multiple units.
Setup and maintenance expectations
All eight units I tested took under 30 minutes to set up from box to first planting. Daily maintenance is minimal – check water levels, add nutrients weekly. Monthly cleaning takes about 15 minutes. None of these systems require the kind of intensive care that traditional soil gardening demands.
FAQs
What is the best countertop hydroponic garden?
The best countertop hydroponic garden depends on your needs. After testing 8 units over 90 days, the LetPot LPH-SE stands out for its WiFi app control, 24W full spectrum LED, 5.5L water tank lasting 3 weeks, and 30-inch adjustable height. For budget buyers, the Ahopegarden 10-Pod system delivers excellent performance at half the price with 10 growing stations and dual light modes.
What type of planter is best for growing herbs indoors?
For growing herbs indoors, hydroponic planters with full spectrum LED grow lights produce the fastest and most reliable results. These aeroponic style systems deliver nutrients directly to plant roots through circulating water, which means 3-5x faster growth compared to soil. The best indoor herb planters include automatic timers, water level indicators, and adjustable height light posts so you can grow everything from basil to lettuce to small tomatoes year-round without natural sunlight.
Is LetPot better than AeroGarden?
LetPot offers several advantages over AeroGarden in 2026: WiFi app control for remote monitoring, larger water tanks (5.5L versus 2-4L in most AeroGarden units), taller adjustable light posts up to 30 inches, and stainless steel construction on premium models. For buyers worried about AeroGarden brand closure, LetPot uses standard pod sizes that work with third-party replacements. The AeroGarden Harvest still wins on ecosystem maturity and accessory availability, but LetPot’s smart features and build quality make it the stronger choice for new buyers.
What should I buy since AeroGarden is closing?
Since AeroGarden announced closure, the best alternatives are systems using standard pod sizes that work with third-party replacements. The LetPot LPH-SE, Ahopegarden 10-Pod, and iDOO 12-Pod systems all use generic-compatible pods and have strong customer support. Avoid any unit that requires proprietary consumables from a single supplier. Look for brands with active Amazon listings, multiple product generations, and responsive customer service – all signals that the company will remain operational regardless of one competitor’s status.
Can you use generic pods in AeroGarden-style planters?
Yes, generic pods work with most non-AeroGarden hydroponic systems. Brands like LetPot, iDOO, Ahopegarden, and URUQ use standard pod dimensions that accept third-party seed pods and growing sponges. For discontinued AeroGarden-branded units, generic pod adapters are available from third-party sellers, but availability may shrink over time. When shopping for a new aerogarden style planter, prioritize models that explicitly mention compatibility with standard or generic pods to protect your investment long-term.
Final Verdict
After 90 days of testing eight different aerogarden style planters for the kitchen, the LetPot LPH-SE earns my top recommendation for most buyers. Its combination of WiFi app control, 24W full spectrum LED, 5.5L water tank, and 30-inch adjustable height delivers the best overall experience for serious indoor herb gardeners.
For budget-focused buyers, the Ahopegarden 10-Pod system delivers impressive results at half the price. For tech lovers who want smart features without the full premium price, the LetPot LPH-Air provides silent operation and app control at a lower cost than its larger sibling.
No matter which aerogarden style planter you choose, you are getting a low-maintenance way to keep fresh herbs on your kitchen counter year-round. Pick the system that matches your budget and pod count needs, and you will be harvesting fresh basil within a month.