Naomi Stephens | Permaculture Designer
- Oct 18, 2023

AeroGarden vs Click and Grow: Which Indoor Garden Reigns Supreme?

Updated: Mar 4

Indoor gardening has taken the world by storm, and at the forefront of this revolution are AeroGarden and Click & Grow. These innovative systems allow plant enthusiasts to grow their favorite herbs, flowers, and even vegetables from the comfort of their homes. But which system reigns supreme? Let's dive into indoor gardens and compare "AeroGarden vs Click and Grow" to help you make an informed decision.

Aero Garden Bounty Elite - Stainless Steel

Key Takeaways

Comparing AeroGarden and Click & Grow Systems to determine the best indoor garden system for your needs.
System design, size, plant pod options, lighting systems, and watering/nutrient delivery methods differ between models.
Consider noise levels and energy consumption when selecting an indoor gardening system. Both offer varying levels of affordability and value, with high-end models featuring intelligent features such as LED grow lights and app connectivity.

Comparing AeroGarden and Click & Grow Systems

AeroGarden and Click & Grow are both renowned for their ability to help plants grow efficiently indoors, but they differ in several aspects, such as:

Design
Size
Plant pod options
Lighting
Watering
Noise levels
Energy consumption
Growing results
Ease of use
Pricing
Smart features

Popular models like the AeroGarden Harvest and the Click & Grow Smart Garden 3(pods) have garnered much attention for their convenience and effectiveness, making them top choices among various aero garden model options.

As someone who has experienced the AeroGarden Harvest Elite 360 firsthand, I can attest to the enjoyment and satisfaction it brings. Observing the plants' growth has become a family affair, and while it doesn't provide a substantial amount of our food, we enjoy having fresh herbs and salad greens regularly.

Next, we will explore the design and size of these impressive systems in more detail.

System Design and Size

Regarding design, AeroGarden, like the Harvest Elite, has a more gear-centric aesthetic, whereas Click & Grow intelligent gardens boast a sleek design. AeroGarden models such as the Harvest and Sprout are compact, while the Bounty model is larger with dimensions of 17.25" wide and 11.25" wide. Specific AeroGarden systems offer features like Wi-Fi and vacation mode, which can be helpful if you want to grow plants from your seeds.

The AeroGarden Harvest usually ranges from $130 to $170, depending on optional features, and can be used to grow various plants, including cherry tomatoes. Your indoor garden's size will hinge on your specific needs, as larger models like the AeroGarden Bounty can accommodate several dozen plants. In comparison, smaller models like the AeroGarden Sprout are designed for fewer plants.

In addition to their aesthetic differences, AeroGarden and Click & Grow systems have varying space requirements based on the model and plant type. Ultimately, your preference, available space, and desired features will determine your choice.

Plant Pod Options

AeroGarden offers mixed variety packs for plant pods. At the same time, Click & Grow provides individual types of plant pods, allowing for a more extensive selection and the ability to grow fresh herbs and other plants. The cost per pod for AeroGarden ranges from $1.91 to $4.65, whereas Click & Grow pods cost between $1.85 and $3.32, depending on the model and plant type.

They commonly use plant pods for AeroGarden, including basil, mini tomatoes, and lettuce, while Click & Grow users might opt for Italian Kale or Red Hot Chili Pepper Pods. Click & Grow has a higher success rate in cultivating plants at various stages and in any indoor environment, including leafy greens. However, AeroGarden boasts a more robust root system that facilitates enhanced plant growth.

Lighting Systems

AeroGarden and Click & Grow use LED lighting systems on automated 24-hour cycles. The standard built-in cycle for Click & Grow LED grow lights is 16 hours on and 8 hours off, while AeroGarden LED grow lights operate on a cycle of 15 hours on and 9 hours off. AeroGarden's LED grow light output for the Sprout model is 10w, while Click & Grow lights have an average power output of 6-8 watts.

AeroGarden lighting systems are designed with features such as sunrise/sunset auto light dimming in the Bounty Elite model. Both systems allow for adjustable light height, with AeroGarden featuring a vertically adjustable light bar and Click & Grow providing arm extensions. The tone of AeroGarden lights appears to have a cooler hue, while Click & Grow lights appear slightly warmer.

Despite their differences, both AeroGarden and Click & Grow lighting systems cater to the needs of indoor plants, providing sufficient light for growth and development. Your preferences concerning brightness, tone, and built-in cycles will guide your decision between the two systems.

Watering and Nutrient Delivery

Regarding watering and nutrient delivery, AeroGarden and Click & Grow differ in their approaches. AeroGarden incorporates a small pump in the water reservoir, while Click & Grow gardens use a passive wicking system to water the pods. AeroGarden's automated delivery of water and nutrients provides efficiency and accuracy without manual input while also aerating and oxygenating the water.

On the other hand, Click & Grow's passive wicking system offers the advantage of having no moving parts and silent operation. Both systems are water-efficient and have no restrictions on water quality. However, AeroGarden's water reservoir includes more parts to clean, a factor worth considering when comparing the two systems.

Noise Levels and Energy Consumption

AeroGarden typically consumes 2-3x more watts of electricity than Click & Grow. For example, the AeroGarden Harvest has an estimated monthly running cost of USD 1.50, while the Click & Grow Smart Garden 3 has an estimated monthly running cost of USD 0.53.

Regarding noise levels, AeroGarden produces a subtle trickling sound from its electric pump, while Click & Grow is entirely silent.

Energy consumption and noise levels are significant considerations when selecting an indoor gardening system. Those prioritizing energy efficiency and a quieter environment may find Click & Grow more suitable. In contrast, others might prefer the AeroGarden for its advanced features and faster plant growth despite the higher energy consumption and noise levels.

Growing Results and Success Rates

AeroGarden systems, also known as aerogarden indoor gardens, have been observed to grow plants, including taller plants, at least twice as quickly as plants grown in soil. However, growth may be irregular or less vibrant due to an imbalance of nutrients and light, and starting a seed pod can be difficult if mature plants are already present in the same AeroGarden.

Customer reviews for the AeroGarden Bounty Elite are generally positive, indicating that most customers are satisfied with the product.

Comparatively, Click & Grow is more successful in cultivating plants at various stages and in any indoor environment, including leafy greens. Choosing between AeroGarden and Click & Grow will hinge on personal preferences about plant growth speed, yield, and overall satisfaction.

Ease of Use and Maintenance

AeroGarden and Click & Grow systems differ in ease of use and maintenance. Here are the key differences:

Click & Grow is more user-friendly, while AeroGarden offers broader features.
Advanced AeroGarden systems feature alerts to notify users when adding nutrients to the water or refilling the tank is necessary.
Click & Grow systems require manual monitoring of water and nutrient levels.

Both systems are designed for easy setup, watering, and nutrient delivery. Still, AeroGarden has more components to clean in its water reservoir, which could be a factor to consider when choosing between the two systems.

Ultimately, your preference for ease of use, maintenance, and the level of control you wish to have over your indoor garden will guide your decision between AeroGarden and Click & Grow.

Pricing and Value

AeroGarden models range from $79.95 to $845.95, while Click & Grow models range from $139.95 to $2,499.95. The most popular models, AeroGarden Harvest and Click & Grow Smart Garden 3 (Pods), offer a balance of affordability and effectiveness. The AeroGarden Harvest is more affordable than the Bounty variants and includes a season's worth of Miracle-Gro plant food and six seed pods.

When it comes to plant pod prices:

Click & Grow pods are generally more economical at standard prices
AeroGarden pods are more often discounted
AeroGarden offers a more cost-effective seed kit for cultivating nine plants

Considering the initial costs, plant pod prices, and overall value for money, both AeroGarden and Click & Grow systems offer benefits. Your personal preferences and budget will influence your choice.

High-End Models and Smart Features

AeroGarden offers the Farm Plus and Bounty Elite models for those seeking premium indoor garden systems, while Click & Grow has the 9 PRO model. The AeroGarden Farm Plus has an extended LED grow light. It rises to 24", compared to the 12" on the regular Farm model. The Bounty Elite model offers Wi-Fi control and Alexa compatibility, allowing users to control the system through an app or voice commands.

Click & Grow 9 PRO offers increased capacity and app connectivity for convenience and customization. Both AeroGarden and Click & Grow offer apps for high-end models, providing users with advanced control options.

Your preference for aesthetics, advanced features, and budget will dictate your choice among high-end and intelligent models.

Pros and Cons of AeroGarden vs Click & Grow

AeroGarden offers a low risk of pest infestation, a germination guarantee, and a broad range of plant pods, making it an attractive option for many indoor garden enthusiasts. However, the system can be costly, and the Bounty Elite model is more expensive than the Harvest model.

On the other hand, Click & Grow offers a wide variety of lighting systems that are user-friendly and require minimal maintenance. The main drawback of Click & Grow is the lack of a germination guarantee. Both systems allow users to grow their food at home, decreasing expenditure on food and providing fresh vegetables year-round.

Your preferences for design, features, and budget will influence your choice between AeroGarden and Click & Grow. Evaluating the pros and cons of each system will help you make a well-informed decision on the ideal indoor garden system for your needs.

Summary

AeroGarden and Click & Grow are remarkable indoor garden systems catering to different needs and preferences. Both systems offer a variety of models, features, and plant pod options, providing users with numerous choices for their indoor gardening experience. While AeroGarden boasts faster plant growth and a germination guarantee, Click & Grow excels in user-friendliness and energy efficiency.

No matter which system you choose, indoor gardening with AeroGarden or Click & Grow can bring joy, satisfaction, and fresh produce to your home. Consider your preferences, weigh the pros and cons, and select the indoor garden system that best suits your lifestyle and needs.

Comparing AeroGarden vs Click and Grow

AeroGarden	Click and Grow
AeroGarden Farm XL Wi-Fi: The AeroGarden Farm 24XL is a state-of-the-art hydroponic garden that allows real-time updates and control through Wi-Fi. Size: This growing system can accommodate up to 24 plants at once, with an increasing height of up to 36 inches, allowing for large, regular harvests. Lighting: It has two fully customizable, full spectrum 60W LED grow lights to ensure optimal growth and maximum yields. App: You can manage the garden using the AeroGarden app, which allows you to track your play our plants from anywhere. Nutrient: The AeroGarden Farm 24XL utilizes a hydroponic system that allows you to grow 24 different herb, veggie, or flower varieties simultaneously and year-round. Water: Its hydroponic system ensures the right amount of water is delivered to the plants, reducing manual watering efforts. Alerts: Through the AeroGarden app, you can receive timely plant health and growth alerts.	Click and Grow 27 Pod Connectivity - A state-of-the-art growing system that integrates with Wi-Fi for real-time updates and control. Capacity - This system can simultaneously nurture up to 27 plants, offering a variety of home-grown produce. Lighting System - Equipped with an advanced LED grow light system that guarantees optimal growth and maximum yields. Mobile Application - Comes with a dedicated smartphone app for tracking plant progress from anywhere, anytime. Nutrient Delivery - Automated nutrient dosing ensures your plants receive the perfect amount of nutrition every time for ideal growth. Water Reservoir - A large 13-gallon water reservoir with an auto-refill feature, reducing manual watering efforts. Smart Alerts - Intelligent alerts to keep you informed about plant health and growth, helping you take timely action when necessary.
AeroGarden Bounty Elite Wi-Fi: The AeroGarden Bounty Elite is an intelligent hydroponic garden that allows real-time updates and control through Wi-Fi. Size: This system can accommodate up to 9 plants at once, with a growing height of up to 24 inches, making it ideal for growing various herbs, veggies, or flowers. Lighting: It has a high-performance, full-spectrum 50W LED lighting system that ensures optimal growth and maximum yields. App: You can manage the garden using the AeroGarden app, which tracks your plant's progress from anywhere. Nutrient: The Bounty Elite utilizes a hydroponic system that allows you to grow nine different herb, veggie, or flower varieties simultaneously and year-round. Water: Its hydroponic system ensures the right amount of water is delivered to the plants, reducing manual watering efforts. Alerts: Through the AeroGarden app, you can receive timely plant health and growth alerts.	Click and Grow 25 Pods Size: The Click & Grow 25 is an indoor garden system that can accommodate up to 25 plant pods at once, providing an abundance of greens and herbs. Automation: This fully automated indoor garden grows plant pods for you while ensuring they have enough water, light, oxygen, and nutrients. Energy Efficiency: The Click & Grow 25 is touted as the most space and energy-efficient indoor garden system. Quality Produce: This system allows you to enjoy premium quality greens daily at a price comparable to lower quality grocery store greens. Referral Program: Click & Grow offers a referral program where you can get a $25 gift card for every kit your friends get. Plant Pod Storage: The Click & Grow 25 features handy storage for plant pods.Automation: This fully automated indoor garden grows plant pods for you while ensuring they have enough water, light, oxygen, and nutrients. Energy Efficiency: The Click & Grow 25 is touted as the most space and energy-efficient indoor garden system. Quality Produce: This system allows you to enjoy premium quality greens daily at a price comparable to lower quality grocery store greens.
AeroGarden Harvest Size: The AeroGarden Harvest is a compact hydroponic garden system that can accommodate up to 6 plants at once, growing them up to 12 inches tall. Easy to Use: Most plants germinate within 7-14 days, are ready for harvesting in 4-6 weeks, and will keep producing continuous harvests for up to 6 months and longer. Year-Round Growth: With this indoor garden, you can grow your favorite herbs, veggies, or flowers year-round - no sun, soil, or green thumb required. Design: The Harvest garden model comes in various shapes, colors, and finishes to fit almost anywhere, making it a versatile addition to any room in your house. Seed Pod Kit: The AeroGarden Harvest often comes with a gourmet herb seed pod kit, allowing you to start growing immediately.	Click and Grow 9 Pods Size: The Click & Grow 9 is a compact indoor garden system that can accommodate up to 9 plants at once, allowing you to grow various herbs, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Automatic Watering: The Smart Garden 9 features an automatic watering system that ensures plants receive the perfect amount of water. LED Grow Lights: It comes with energy-efficient LED grow lights that give plants an optimal light spectrum for faster and more nutritious growth. Biodegradable Plant Pods: The garden uses biodegradable plant pods containing seeds and nutrients necessary for each plant type. Innovative Soil Technology: ClickGrow'sw's patented Smart Soil ensures your plants get the optimal configuration of oxygen and nutrients. Year- configurationRound Growth: With this indoor garden, you can enjoy fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables year-round, regardless of the weather outside.
AeroGarden Sprout Compact Design: The AeroGarden Sprout is a 3-pod indoor garden that offers a compact solution for growing fresh and flavorful herbs and salad greens at your fingertips anytime. [^1^][^2^] New Design: The AeroGarden Sprout has been redesigned to enhance plant growth. It features a sleek, modern look, a new silent pump, and simple soft-touch button controls. [^3^] Affordable: The AeroGarden Sprout was recently available for just $35 on Woot!, making it an affordable option for those looking to try hydroponic indoor gardening. [^4^] Growing Updates: Some users have shared their updates on blogs and YouTube. For example, after 18 weeks of growing herbs in the AeroGarden Sprout LED, one user had to transplant their Genovese basil to their AeroGarden Farm Plus. [^5^][^6^][^7^][^8^] Sales: The three-pod Sprout smart garden from AeroGarden, a best-in-class pick according to The Strategist, was on sale with a 20% discount. [^9^]	Click and Grow 3 Pods Size: The Click & Grow 9 is a compact indoor garden system that can accommodate up to 9 plants at once, allowing you to grow various herbs, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Automatic Watering: The Smart Garden 9 features an automatic watering system that ensures plants receive the perfect amount of water. LED Grow Lights: It comes with energy-efficient LED grow lights that give plants an optimal light spectrum for faster and more nutritious growth. Biodegradable Plant Pods: The garden uses biodegradable plant pods containing seeds and nutrients necessary for each plant type. Innovative Soil Technology: Click & Grow's patented Smart Soil ensures your plants get the optimal water, oxygen, and nutrient configuration. Year-Round Growth: With this indoor garden, you can enjoy fresh herbs, fruits, and vegetables year-round, regardless of the weather outside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between AeroGarden harvHarvest Elite clicClick Grow?

The Aerogarden Harvest Elite uses a high-performance, full-spectrum 20-watt LED system with an automated 15 h15-hours-onhours-off growing schedule. Click & Grow sets an automatic 16-hours-on, 8-hours-off schedule using full-spectrum LED lights.

Who is Click and Grow's competitor?

Click & Grow's competitors include terraplanter, Herbert, and Grove Labs, offering over 30 options for alternative solutions.

Is the AeroGarden worth buying?

The AeroGarden Harvest Elite is an excellent hydroponic garden with easy-to-use features and great results. It has the added benefit of being a fun project for you and your children. Despite a few minor inconveniences, it is worth buying.

Which is better, Click and Grow or AeroGarden?

Overall, Click & Grow is better for larger plants like tomatoes or peppers, while AeroGarden offers more options for smaller herbs. Both systems are reliable and provide quality results.

Can I grow my seeds in AeroGarden and Click & Grow systems?

Yes, you can grow your seeds in both AeroGarden and Click & Grow systems, with some AeroGarden models offering additional features to make the process easier.