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AeroGarden Germination, Seed Sprouting, and Plant Food
Master the essentials of seed germination, sprouting and liquid plant food application
AeroGarden seeds typically germinate within 5 to 15 days depending on the variety, with herbs and salads sprouting fastest. Successful germination requires constant moisture, oxygenated water, and warmth from the LED grow lights. AeroGarden Liquid Plant Food provides a pH-buffered mineral blend essential for seedling health. If a pod fails to sprout after 21 days, it is eligible for a refund under the Germination Guarantee.
When planting new or replacement seed pods, we recommend the following tips for optimal growth
- Adjust your LED Light panel so that it is at the lowest level and close to the new seedlings - seeds need the heat from the light in order to germinate. Raise the lights as your plants grow.
- If you need to lower the lights, prune the other plants in your AeroGarden so that they don't get in the way of the new seedlings. Remember not to prune more than 1/3 of a plant at a time.
- Rinse and refill your water bowl before planting these replacement Seed Pods. Add fresh water and follow the instructions on the nutrient bottle to add the correct amount of Liquid Plant Food. This will reset the pH of your AeroGarden and ensure an ideal environment for seeds to germinate.
- Before you add the Liquid Plant Food to the water, shake the bottle well to distribute nutrients evenly and ensure you are adding all the nutrients your plants will need.
- Fill the water bowl to the Fill to Here line and keep it consistent for happy, healthy plants.
- Check the pump or aerator to make sure it is running - this keeps the water oxygenated and your plants happy.
There is white fuzz on my seed pod, what is this?
You may notice a white fuzz developing on the top of the grow sponges. This is likely a beneficial fungus and is a sign of healthy, organic, biological activity. It does not harm your plants, prevent germination, or in any way impact the quality or edibility of your plants. The beneficial fungi will soon disappear from view as your AeroGarden plants out-compete it for light, nutrients, and water. If a seed pod ever fails to germinate after 21 days, please chat us by clicking here.
How long do seed pods last?
Each of our Seed Pod Kits are tested for germination and expire one year after that date. To give you seeds the best chance to germinate, we recommend storing extra kits in a dark, cool, dry place. This will keep them cool and the seeds dormant until you’re ready to plant them in your AeroGarden. Some people store them in the vegetable drawer of their refrigerator in an airtight container or bag.
Why is the basil growing faster than the other herbs?
This is perfectly normal! Basil is quick to germinate and grow in your AeroGarden. Sometimes, other plants just need time to catch up. We recommend keeping your grow light close to the grow deck and pruning your basil back so the other pods have direct access to the light. If a seed pod ever fails to germinate after 21 days, please chat us by clicking here.
How long will it take my plants to germinate?
Different type of plants take different amounts of time to germinate and grow. In general, we've found these germination timeframes to be consistent:
- Flowers: 7-12 days
- Salads: 5-8 days
- Herbs: 5-15 days
- Fruiting vegetables (such as tomatoes and peppers): 7-14 days
If any of your seed pods don't germinate after 21 days, chat us by clicking here.
How long do plants typically last in an AeroGarden?
Growing in an AeroGarden is similar to growing plants in any environment. Plants have a lifespan and a life cycle as they grow and mature. The type of plant you are growing and the tending and harvesting it receives will impact the life expectancy of any plant.
- Flower varieties typically grow for 4-5 months and can last much longer depending on tending and care.
- Lettuces & Greens typically grow for about 4 months.
- Herbs typically grow for about 3-4 months and can last 6 months or more. Some herbs, such as basil, can last longer than that, especially with regular pruning and harvesting.
- Fruiting vegetable plants (such as tomatoes or peppers) will start to flower and set fruit after they reach a level of maturity. The average lifespan for fruiting vegetables is about 12 months. With continued tending and care, fruiting vegetables can certainly maintain plant growth for longer.
Are AeroGarden seeds and nutrients organic?
Our seeds are sourced from large and small vendors from around the world. Many are heirloom seeds, organic sources are chosen when available, and GMO seeds are never used. AeroGrow uses the same proven, patented nutrients that we've used since the beginning - the result of 6 years of intensive testing in our grow rooms. Our nutrients contain no harmful pesticides or herbicides. AeroGarden LIquid Plant Food is derived from minerals that life on earth needs to flourish, in exactly the right amounts for your plants, derived from sources that ensure high levels of consistency and purity.
What is a Grow Anything kit?
Our Grow Anything kits allow you to plant and grow your own choice of favorite seeds in the AeroGarden. Whether you like to grow snap peas, cucumbers, or wildflowers, you can do it with the Grow Anything kit. Planting with your own seeds or cuttings, however, can be a bit of an experiment. We hope that your efforts will be successful and that you enjoy the discovery process!
If you are using a Grow Anything kit, unfortunately, we cannot guarantee germination as we do not supply the seeds, they are supplied by the user. If you have any issues with germination in your Grow Anything kits, we can offer advice and suggestions to help you be more successful.
Where are the grow domes?
We have diligently worked on reducing our overall consumption of single use plastic in order to promote sustainability. Our research team conducted several trials that determined grow domes do not provide any additional benefit to germination of seeds in our AeroGarden units. The team has also focused on improving our seed storage conditions to help increase germination rates with all varieties currently offered.
Basic AeroGarden Information & Tips
Discover what an AeroGarden is and how to set it up for success
The AeroGarden is an indoor hydroponic gardening system that grows plants in water 5x faster than soil. It automates the light and water cycles using full-spectrum LED panels and a timed pump. For optimal performance, gardens should be placed in room-temperature environments away from direct sunlight. Using a 15-to-17-hour light cycle ensures plants receive the energy needed for year-round harvesting without a traditional outdoor garden.
How does the AeroGarden indoor hydroponic system grow plants without soil?
AeroGardens are designed to help you grow your own herbs, vegetables, salad greens, or flowers at home. Our Seed Pod Kits are compatible with every model of AeroGarden. Planting with Seed Pods is fun and easy! Just insert the pre-seeded pods in your garden, add water, and the patented, specially formulated Liquid Nutrients. 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. Indoor gardening can't get any tastier or simpler!
How can I download the official AeroGarden product manual or user guide?
All of our Product Guides can be found here.
How much electricity does an AeroGarden use?
We believe it's important to understand your energy consumption, and we're proud of the low energy usage of AeroGardens! We've done the math to show you exactly how much energy your AeroGarden uses.
To calculate the energy consumption of an AeroGarden, we use the following formula:
(Hours your AeroGarden is on each day) x (Wattage of your AeroGarden model / 1000 to convert to kilowatts) x (31 days per month) x (Cost per kilowatt-hour charged by your utility, e.g., $0.11/kWh)
For example, in our AeroGarden offices, we're growing Gourmet Herbs in a Bounty, which is on for 17 hours a day and uses 48 watts (0.048 kilowatts). This garden operates for 31 days a month at an average utility rate of approximately $0.11 per kilowatt-hour.
What are the best locations and environmental conditions for an AeroGarden setup?
We recommend placing your Garden in an easily accessible area. Do not place the garden in a closet or cabinet. Do not place the garden directly below a source of light where the hood can be exposed to that heat. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
Do AeroGarden LED grow lights emit UV rays or interfere with indoor lighting?
No, AeroGarden LED grow lights do not emit any UV rays. AeroGarden Grow Lights emit a full spectrum of light to encourage healthy, fast plant growth.
Are AeroGarden plastic components BPA-free and safe for food contact?
AeroGardens are made with durable and food-safe plastics. AeroGardens do not contain BPA or phthalates. We chose this type of plastic consciously based on its performance, durability, and safety characteristics for its specific use as a hydroponic garden.
What is the lifespan of AeroGarden LED lights and when should they be replaced?
If your AeroGarden uses LED lights, you do not need to replace your LED light hood until individual diodes begin to fail. Diodes have a 2-4 year lifespan.
How do AeroGarden pump cycles work and can I customize the timer settings?
AeroGarden pumps operate on a timer and have on and off cycles. AeroGarden pumps are designed to be quiet as they run. If you hear any noise from the garden, it is most likely water noise as it runs through the pump and drips through the tray deck. Different AeroGardens have different pump cycles. You can customize the pump cycles on the AeroGarden Bounty and Farm. For more information about you AeroGarden, refer to your User Guide. If you have specific questions, please chat us.
How do I troubleshoot or test an AeroGarden pump that has stopped running?
AeroGarden pumps run on a timer, and, depending on the AeroGarden model you have, you may be able to customize this timer. If your pump is not running, the first thing to do is run a pump test.
- If you have a Harvest, press and hold the Leaf button for a few seconds to run the pump for one minute.
- If you have a Harvest Elite, press the Leaf button to access the menu and use the arrows to navigate to the Test Pump option.
- If you have a Bounty or a Farm model, navigate to the Menu to find Pump settings, from there you will see an option to Test Pump.
How does AeroGarden Vacation Mode work to keep plants alive while I'm away?
Most AeroGardens have a Vacation Mode setting that helps keep your plants watered while you're away. With vacation mode, you can lower your garden's water usage and keep your plants alive even if you're not home for an extended period of time. Vacation Mode is available on AeroGarden Harvest Elites, Bountys, and Farms.
How do I customize or reset the light on/off cycle on an AeroGarden?
AeroGardens are pre-programmed to keep the lights on for different amounts of time depending on the AeroGarden model you have and the type of plants you are growing. Additionally, AeroGarden Bountys and Farms allow you to customize the light cycle so you can set the timer yourself. Information specific to your AeroGarden can be found in your Garden Guide, which you can find on our Product Manuals page by clicking here.
How do I fix or reset a false 'Add Water' alert on my AeroGarden?
Your AeroGarden has a small float inside the water bowl that senses when the water level is low. If the water level is low, AeroGardens will alert you to remind you to add water. If you water level is readly incorrectly, try to remove the tube in the water bowl, remove the float with a magnet, replace the float in the tube and reconnect the tube to the base of the garden. This will reset the indicator. If the water level is still not reading correctly, please contact us so we can help with more specific troubleshooting steps.
Why does my AeroGarden Sprout light turn off automatically when water is low?
The Sprout has a safety feature that shuts off the pump and light if there is no water in the bowl. Once water has been added and the pump starts, the light should come back on. Sometimes the pump does not come back on even when there is water in the bowl. It may take the pump a little bit to recognize the reservoir is now full of water and it may take some movement of the bowl/ pump. If this doesn't work, chat with us here.
How do I troubleshoot light or power issues on an AeroGarden Sprout?
Start by resetting your light and filling the bowl with water. If this doesn't work, chat with us here.
How do I manually reset the LED light timer on an AeroGarden Sprout?
- Touch the light button on top of the hood for 1 second to turn the light on/off.
- Touch the light button for 3 seconds to reset nutrients, the lights will flash once to let you know it's reset.
- Touch the light button 5 seconds to reset the light on time, the lights will flash once to let you know it's reset.
- Touch the light button 10 seconds for full reset, the lights will flash once to let you know it's reset.
How do I navigate the digital display menu on an AeroGarden Harvest Elite?
The buttons on the Harvest Elite are touch-sensitive. To access the menu, press the green leaf button 2 times. You can then scroll through the settings using the up and down arrows. The Green Leaf Button will act as your "Select" button to access each Menu setting.
Why are all three buttons on my AeroGarden Harvest control panel staying lit?
The button lights on the AeroGarden Harvest will always remain illuminated green, blue, and white. They will flash red when the gardens needs plant food and water. The blue water light will stop flashing red when you add water. The green plant food light will start flashing every 14 days to remind you when to add plant food. To reset the nutrient timer, tap the leaf button after you add nutrients.
How do I fix unresponsive buttons or a frozen display on an AeroGarden Harvest Elite?
The buttons are touch-sensitive therefore they do not move, but rather respond to the tap from a finger. To ensure they’re working properly, try these two steps:
- Tap the green leaf button TWO TIMES. This double-tap is required to open the garden's control menu.
- Once "Set Clock" appears on the screen, use the up and down arrow buttons to scroll through the menu options.
If you are still unable to access or scroll through the garden menu after following the steps above, please contact us here.
How do I troubleshoot power issues and start an AeroGarden Harvest 2.0?
1. Ensure the light hood is securely attached to the light post (it should click/latch).
- If not secure, remove and firmly reinsert the light post into the garden, then firmly attach the light hood.
2. Do not add water yet; leave the pump unplugged.
3. Plug the power adapter into the garden (bottom port on light post).
4. Plug the power adapter into a wall outlet.
5. The light turns on automatically the first time. If it was unplugged or there was a power outage, tap the AeroGarden Leaf logo (Light ON/OFF button) to turn it on.
- Since the pump is unplugged, the light should turn on easily.
- If not, try a different outlet.
- If the light turns on, proceed to step 6.
6. Fill the bowl with water.
7. Plug the pump cord into the light post (top port).
- If the pump doesn't run due to lack of water, the light will fade and turn off.
- The pump needs a few attempts to find water. Once running, the light will stay on or turn on if it wasn't manually tapped.
- Listen for the pump running (approx. 8 seconds on, then off), or check for water flow with the deck off. The light should turn on within a few seconds after the pump starts.
8. To test pump power: With the pump plugged in, remove it and feel for vibrations. This may take a few moments for the water detection cycle.
- If vibrating, replace it and wait for the cycle to begin.
- The pump tests for 8 seconds every 15 seconds if no water is sensed.
- If the pump has power but isn't moving water, remove the mushroom aeration stem and tap the top of the pump to prime it. Reattach the stem once water flows.
9. If your Harvest 2.0 still won’t turn on, please contact us here.
What should I do if my AeroGarden Harvest model has no power or won't turn on?
- Unplug the garden and plug it back in.
- Try a different outlet.
- Tap the Sun button on the garden base.
If none of these steps work, chat with us here.
How do I fix the light timer for AeroGarden Harvest, Harvest 360, and Harvest Slim models?
- Try to reset your light timer first.
- You can reset what time the light turns on by holding down the white sun button for 5 seconds.
- The LED lights will turn ON and OFF once to confirm a new light on time has been set.
- The light will then come on every day at that time and will stay on for 15 hours.
- If you are still having issues, a factory reset may help:
- With the garden plugged in, press and hold simultaneously the Plant Food and Lights On/Off button for about 5 seconds.
- The garden will reset all settings will be reset to 0.
- The buttons will be locked, unplug and plug the garden back in to restore all functions.
If none of these steps work, chat with us here.
How do I perform a manual light reset on an AeroGarden Harvest model?
- Manually turn the lights on and off by gently touching the white sun button. If you turn the lights off during their normal cycle, the lights will resume their cycle and turn on at the set time the next day.
- Reset what time the light turns on by touching the Green Leaf button two times, use the arrows to navigate to the Light ON Time setting.
- Please ensure your clock is also set to the correct time.
How do I adjust the digital light cycle on AeroGarden Harvest Elite, 360, and Slim models?
1. Check your clock and light settings first (Clock and Light ON settings are in two different places). To check clock and light settings:
- Check your clock and make sure it is set to the correct time. You can do this by tapping the leaf button twice to access the menu. Using the arrow buttons, locate “Set Clock” within the menu and select this setting by tapping the leaf button once.
- Access your menu once more, and select “Set Light On” setting and change the time you want the light to be on each day.
2. If you are still having issues a factory reset may help:
- With the garden plugged in, press and hold simultaneously the Up and Down arrows for about 3 seconds.
- The garden will go to the "Welcome" page and all settings will be reset to 0.
- The buttons will be locked, unplug and plug the garden back in to restore all functions.
If none of these steps work, chat with us here.
Why is my AeroGarden Harvest light flashing, strobing, or showing burnt-out LED diodes?
Please contact us here.
How do I adjust the height of the light post on an AeroGarden Bounty?
The light post is extended on the Bounty models once the rings on the light post are loosened. Turning the rings to the right will tighten the rings, and turning the rings to the left will loosen them. Once the rings are loosened the light post will extend up and down. Once at the desired height, simply tighten the rings to lock them in place.
Why are the LED lights dim on my AeroGarden Bounty and how do I fix it?
Is the Vacation Mode enabled? If it is, the lights will be dimmed. If not, chat with us here.
What should I do if individual LED diodes fail on my AeroGarden Bounty light hood?
Please contact us here.
How do I fix the light timer and clock settings on an AeroGarden Bounty Basic?
1. Ensure the garden clock is correctly set. Tap on Menu and use the arrows to navigate to the Clock settings. Note: the plant type you selected will determine how long the garden is on for.
2. If the clock is set correctly, but the lights aren’t coming on based on the scheduled time, try a factory reset.
- Simultaneously push and hold down the < and > buttons (arrows) for five (5) seconds. At this point, everything will reset and the 'Welcome' page will come up. Note: none of the buttons will work, with the exception of 'Quick Plant.' All settings will reset, therefore you will want to record your days planted and reset the clock, plant type, light on/off time, and days planted after factory reset.
3. If you have checked the settings and performed a factory reset and the garden is still not turning on/off as scheduled, contact us here.
How do I troubleshoot a flashing LED light or power failure on an AeroGarden Bounty?
1. Double check the light hood is the correct one.
2. The name of the Bounty model is listed on the front of the control panel as well as on the underside of the hood. If these two parts do not match, the light will not work. For example, the Bounty Basic light hood will only work with the Bounty Basic base.
3. If the hood is incorrect, please contact us here.
4. Double-check to make sure the Light Hood is fully connected to the post. It is very common to not push in the post all the way.
- There are two lines, one on the top and one on the inside post near the base of the lamp post.
- When installed properly, it lines up perfectly with the bottom of the lamp connector so that you cannot see the black line.
5. Check to make sure the post is fully connected to the base of the garden.
- Look inside the base of the lamp post. When installed properly, it lines up perfectly with the bottom of the Bounty base.
6. If the lights do not automatically turn on after this, tap the light (sun) button on the front control panel of the garden.
7. If you are still unable to get the LED light to turn on after checking these steps, please contact us here.
How do I reset or customize the digital light timer on an AeroGarden Bounty Elite?
1. Ensure the garden clock is correctly set. If not, tap on Menu and select Clock then follow the prompts to set the clock. Note: the plant type selected will determine how long the light stays on for.
2. If the clock is set correctly, but the lights are not coming on based on the scheduled time, try a factory reset:
- Simultaneously hold the "Vacation Mode" and "Wifi" buttons for five (5) seconds. At this point everything will reset and the 'Welcome' page will come up. Note: at that point none of the buttons will work, with the exception of 'Quick Plant.' All settings will start over, therefore you will want to reset the clock, plant type, light on/off time, and days planted after factory reset.
3. If you have checked the settings and performed a factory reset and the garden is still not turning on/off as scheduled, please contact us here.
What should I do if the AeroGarden Farm motorized light panel is stuck or won’t move?
Ensure you are pressing and holding the up and down arrow on the control panel. It takes a few moments for the lights to move up and down, so press and hold the button to move the lights and keep holding the arrows until it is at the desired height. If you are doing this and the panel still won’t go up or down, please contact us here.
How do I level a crooked or unevenly hanging light hood on an AeroGarden Farm?
Raise the hood as high as it will go. With both hands, press gently down on both sides of the panel while another person presses the down arrow on the control panel to lower the light to even things out. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, please contact us here.
Why are my AeroGarden Farm LED lights flickering?
Try turning the sunrise/sunset setting on, sometimes this resolves the blinking/flashing issue. To do so, go to more options > lights > sunrise/sunset > turn sunrise/sunset on. If the lights continue flashing, please contact us here.
How do I fix an AeroGarden Farm light panel that has no power or won’t turn on?
Ensure the LED power cord is fully secured in the Farm top and the LED panel. If these cords come loose, the LED panel will not come on. Tap the on/off button next to the sun icon on the left of the screen to test if the LED panel turns on. If the light is still unresponsive after troubleshooting, please contact us here.
How do I fix an unresponsive AeroGarden touchscreen or a blank white display?
Unplug the garden and wait 5-10 minutes, plug it back in and test the screen. If it’s still not responding, please chat with us here.
AeroGarden Cleaning and Care
Learn the best practices for cleaning your system to ensure optimal plant health
Maintaining an AeroGarden requires a "Rinse and Refill" of the water reservoir every four weeks to prevent mineral buildup. Between plantings, the system should be sanitized to kill algae and bacteria. Most AeroGarden grow decks are top-rack dishwasher safe, making it easy to deep-clean the system before starting a new Seed Pod Kit.
What is the best way to clean and sanitize an AeroGarden between plantings?
After each planting, we recommend cleaning and sanitizing your AeroGarden for the best results.
If you have a dishwasher:
- Remove pump and place your grow deck and bowl in the top rack of the dishwasher.
- Run through a warm or cold water cycle (do not use a hot water or heat dry cycle).
If you don't have a dishwasher:
- Fill the bowl with either water and a ¼ cup of chlorine bleach OR 5 cups of distilled white vinegar (no need to use water if you're using the vinegar). Vinegar also helps prevent and clean up mineral deposits in your garden.
- Let the water pump or aerator circulate the solution for 5 minutes.
- Empty the solution, rinse well, and then fill with clear water (no bleach).
- Allow the pump or aerator to circulate the clear water for 5 minutes.
- Empty and rinse once more to ensure that all solution is rinsed from the bowl.
How can I prevent or remove algae growth in my AeroGarden water bowl?
Algae is harmless to your plants so there is no need to worry. Algae occurs naturally and sometimes can grow in hydroponic gardens. You may notice algae growing in the water bowl or around the edge of the holes in your AeroGarden grow deck.
What is the brown residue or mineral buildup on my AeroGarden grow deck?
As your plants begin to grow and thrive, you may start getting some brown "crust" or sediment appearing on the edges of your grow deck. This is not harmful and is calcium buildup from the Liquid Plant Food. As the water in the AeroGarden bowl is pumped through the system, some of the Liquid Plant Food can collect near the surface.
Why should I perform a ‘Rinse and Refill” on my AeroGarden water reservoir?
We recommend emptying the water from the bowl and refilling it with fresh water and Liquid Plant Food every 4-6 weeks to keep your plants healthy. Through testing in our lab, we've seen significantly better growth in AeroGardens that were regularly rinses and refilled. You can do this once a month or so when it is time to add nutrients to your AeroGarden.
Check out our Rinse and Refill Siphon to help you next time you need to clean your water bowl.
Can the AeroGarden grow deck be taken apart for deep cleaning?
Yes, the grow deck can be separated on almost all models of AeroGardens. Sometimes roots will grow through the nozzles on the grow deck and prevent proper water flow, and separating and cleaning the grow deck can help keep the water flowing efficiently. First, remove the grow deck from the bowl of your AeroGarden and place it upside down on a flat surface. Locate the tabs on the underside of the deck and push the tabs inward and down. The tabs are flexible and designed to be separated. Use a scrub brush or similar cleaning tool to remove the roots and any other debris from the grow deck. Snap back together and replace.
Plant Care, Pruning and Plant Maintenance
Follow expert techniques for maintaining healthy roots and maximizing your yield
Pruning is essential for AeroGarden health to prevent fast-growing plants from shading out smaller ones. Trimming the top third of a plant encourages horizontal growth and higher yields. For fruiting plants like tomatoes or peppers, manual pollination (gently shaking the branches) is required to simulate wind indoors. Healthy roots should remain milky white; if they become overgrown, they can be trimmed to ensure proper water circulation.
How do I prune AeroGarden tomatoes and peppers for maximum yield?
Fruiting vegetables, like tomatoes, peppers, and Fairy Tale eggplants, do require a little more attention and care than herbs, flowers, and salads. Plants show be just an inch or two below the grow light hood and should be growing within the footprint of the AeroGarden. Prune as much as 1/3 of the plant at once to create a dense and compact shape.
What is the correct way to prune lettuce and salad greens in an AeroGarden?
Lettuce is one of the fastest-growing indoor crops and it's a staple. Who doesn't love to be healthy with delicious homegrown lettuce, or add a fresh leaf of romaine on their sandwich, or a salad of tasty arugula? And with AeroGarden, you can enjoy delicious Spring greens all throughout fall and winter! As a general rule, never prune more than 1/3 of any plant at once.
When and how should I prune AeroGarden herbs to keep them healthy?
Pruning your herbs is important to keep them growing and healthy in your AeroGarden. You can start pruning when the plants are about 2 inches tall. We recommend only pruning about 1/3 of the plant at a time. When growing herbs, keep in mind basil usually sprouts within a week of planting, and grows rapidly. Be sure to prune your basil from the top as needed to keep the grow lights at the lowest position until all the herbs have a chance to catch up. Raising the grow light to accommodate the basil can slow or stop growth for other smaller, slower-growing herbs.
How do I harden off and transplant AeroGarden seedlings into an outdoor garden?
Yes, AeroGarden plants can be transplanted into soil.
How do I identify and treat common AeroGarden pests like aphids or whiteflies?
Insects like whitefly, aphids, and mites that go after plant tissue all stay in check in an outdoor garden because of natural predators. Thankfully there is a natural balance and plenty of predators in the world. Plants grown in an AeroGarden are susceptible to all the same pests as other indoor houseplants. They can enter your home through open windows, on clothing, or on produce, flowers, or potted plants. If you see fine white threads on our between leaves, tiny black or green specks on stems or the underside of leaves, or a sticky substance on the surface of the leaves or grow deck, your plants may have picked up some hitchhikers.
How do I move seedlings from my AeroGarden Seed Starting System to an outdoor garden?
If you use an AeroGarden Seed Starting System to start seedlings indoors, we recommend transplanting them out of the AeroGarden before they reach maturity. Before you transplant seedlings outdoors, we recommend a hardening off period to get them ready.
What are the specific care and pruning requirements for AeroGarden Fairy Tale Eggplants?
Fairy Tale Eggplant care is similar to any other flowering fruit or vegetable you may grow in an AeroGarden. It's important to give your plants room to grow, so we recommend putting no more than 3 seed pods into your tall garden (Bounty or Farm) and covering the remaining holes with spacers. These plants also do better with regular pruning and pollinating to encourage the plants to product eggplants.
Why are my AeroGarden plants wilting or turning yellow and how can I save them?
Plants may start to look unhealthy for a variety of reasons. Plants in your AeroGarden do best with regular tending and care. AeroGardens keep your plants healthy by providing regular light and oxygenation in the water. We recommend keeping the water at or just below the Fill to Here line in your garden so your plants have regular access to water and keeping your grow lights just a few inches above plants for adequate light.
What do healthy hydroponic roots look like in an AeroGarden system?
Healthy roots are milky white in color and will grow and expand in your AeroGarden water bowl as the plant grows and matures. Healthy root systems mean healthy plants. To check your plant roots, gently lift up the Seed Pod of grow deck of your AeroGarden and look inside. Regular rinse and refills contribute to healthier roots and plants.
How do I hand-pollinate AeroGarden tomatoes and peppers indoors?
Many plants, including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and melons require pollination in order to produce fruit. When growing outdoors, Mother Nature performs this critical step through wind, animals, bees, and other insects. When growing indoors, we need to "be the bee" and perform this task ourselves if we want to enjoy vine-ripened tomatoes and veggies in the middle of winter. Gently shake the branches of your plants regularly to loosen the pollen in each flower. You can also point a small fan at your garden to simulate a breeze that will shake the pollen loose.
Can I grow strawberries in an AeroGarden and which models work best?
Yes, you can grow strawberries in your AeroGarden. It is easy to grow strawberries in an AeroGarden in a Seed Pod or in a Grow Bowl for the Bounty Classic, Ultra, and Extra AeroGardens.
Do I need to use plant spacers for empty pod holes in my AeroGarden?
If you are not using all of the pod openings, we suggest using Plant Spacers. For their part, Plant Spacers help both to diminish the "dripping noise" from empty pods in the AeroGarden, and to block light into the reservoir which would otherwise cause algae to grow. Plant Spacers may be available for purchase on our website or you can use a golf ball to cover the hole.
What is the maximum height for plants in an AeroGarden?
The height of each plant does depend on the variety and how often you prune. Every seed variety we offer is specially selected after lengthy trials and is proven to offer the highest quality yields, the best flavor, and the maximum color and beauty for your indoor garden. Herbs and flowers may be short, medium, or tall depending on the variety. Salad greens are typically short to medium and grow up to about 4-5 inches. Tomatoes, peppers, and other fruiting vegetables may group up to 36 inches or taller if you let them. We recommend regular pruning if you are growing fruiting vegetables to encourage the plants to grow and produce more fruit as well as to keep them within the grow space of your AeroGarden.
How can I preserve or dry extra herbs harvested from my AeroGarden?
Some herbs germinate and grow faster than others, but you can benefit by beginning harvests much earlier than you think. Most herbs develop bushier growth when you harvest early - so as soon as you can, trim a stem here or a leaf or two there, start enjoying herbs on your salads, or a handful in soups or sauces. You'll actually get more herbs in the long run if you start gently trimming them back early.
Can I mix herbs, flowers, and vegetables in the same AeroGarden unit?
Yes, you can mix different types of plants in your AeroGarden to grow a variety of herbs, salad, veggies, and flowers if you'd like. If you are growing different plant types, it is important to prune the taller and bushier plants as they grow to allow plenty of space and light for the shorter and smaller plants.
What are the white bumps on AeroGarden tomato stems and are they normal?
When you see little white nodes coming out of the main stem of tomato plants, that is completely normal. Although those look a bit scary, don't worry - they're just aerial roots! Tomatoes have the ability to grow an entire root system from the stem, which is an evolutionary defense mechanism so tall tomato plants are not knocked down. If those nodes were to be in the soil, a whole new root system would appear and anchor the plant more securely to the ground. This is an indication that you have a happy and healthy plant that is just looking for more space to grow! Since this is completely normal biological function, we do not suggest attempting to remove the nodes, as this may damage the plant.
AeroGarden Accessories
Utilize the right tools to automate and support your indoor garden
AeroGarden accessories are designed to extend the automation and productivity of your indoor hydroponic system. Essential add-ons like the AeroVoir provide a consistent water supply for extended periods, while trellis systems and plant spacers help manage larger fruiting vegetables like tomatoes and peppers. Utilizing these official accessories ensures your garden remains oxygenated, light-efficient, and structurally sound, allowing for a more hands-off gardening experience.
How do I use the AeroGarden AeroVoir?
The AeroVoir is a great accessory to use with the AeroGardens. You can utilize the AeroVoir to ensure the water in your grow bowl stays full when you are not at home, or even when you are home! All you need to do is fill up the AeroVoir tank with water, insert the hard L-shaped Outlet Tube into the grow deck and begin to pump the water into the grow bowl, allowing for a flow of water continuously. Contact us if you have specific questions about your AeroVoir.
How do I use the AeroGarden Seed Starting System to grow seedlings for my outdoor garden?
The Seed Starting System is a great tool you can use with your AeroGarden to start your garden's seedlings indoors and extend your growing season. Just replace the standard grow deck in your AeroGarden with this seed starting tray, place your seeds in the peat grow sponges, and drop them into the spaces in the tray. Your garden can run its normal cycle, no special settings or food needed. In a few days, you'll have little sprouts that you can easily take out of the garden and transfer into your outdoor beds when the soil is ready. We offer the Seed Starting System for the Harvest 2018, Bounty 2019, Farm 24 Ultra/Extra, and Sprout Family gardens.
How do I use an AeroGarden trellis to support plants like the tall tomato and pepper plants?
The trellis is an accessory that helps support medium and tall plants, such as tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant. Help your plants grow taller by supporting them before they develop heavy fruit. We have trellis systems available for Bounty and Farm models. For smaller gardens, like the Sprout and Harvest, try bamboo sticks or chopsticks to support your plants. Stick them down inside the grow pods next to the stem. Plants will grow up leaning into them or you can tie gently to the support. Early support can keep plants from collapsing under the weight of the fruit (tragic if it happens just before the harvest).
How do I use the AeroGarden Farm Stacking System to build a vertical indoor garden?
The AeroGarden Farm Stacking System is a must-have for stacking your Farm 12 or Farm 24 model, including the Farm, Farm Plus, or Farm XL. The kit allows you to create a beautiful living wall. Upward and onward! This accessory allows you to grow vertically, safely. Brackets securely attach to the wall to ensure that your gardens are stable and will stay in place. The stacking kit comes in black or white to attractively attach two AeroGarden Farm models vertically. Create your own vertical garden stack or chain of lush, full gardens that become the centerpiece of a room.
AeroGarden App, Amazon Alexa and WiFi connection
Unlock smart features by pairing your device and using Amazon Alexa voice commands
Smart AeroGarden models (Bounty and Farm) connect to 2.4GHz WiFi to allow remote monitoring via the AeroGarden App. This connectivity enables users to adjust light timers, check water levels, and receive nutrient alerts on mobile devices or through Amazon Alexa.
How do I connect my AeroGarden to my WiFi network?
You can connect your AeroGarden Bounty or Farm models to your wireless network and utilize the features on your garden when you're not home, or simply in the other room. When connected to your wireless network, you can adjust your light timer, check the water level, and reset the plant food timer with the AeroGarden app.
- To connect to your WiFi, tape on the WiFi icon on the garden.
- You will get the prompt to search for networks, select your network name (do not use the 5 GHz network).
- Click next, then enter the password for your network. Be sure to include any capital letters and symbols that may be in your password.
- Tap "OK" and the garden will attempt to make the connection. If successful, you will get a message to get the scan code, which is used to link your AeroGarden to the app.
Why won't my AeroGarden connect to WiFi and how do I fix connection errors?
AeroGardens connect to 2.4 GHz WiFi networks. If you are setting up the WiFi connection on your AeroGarden and you do not see your network, first make sure your 2.4 GHz network is set up. If you have dual broadband do not attempt to connect to the "Name_5G". We recommend keeping the garden within range of your wireless router for the best connection. Download the AeroGarden app to successfully link you AeroGarden to your phone.
How do I sync the AeroGarden mobile app with my smart garden?
Once you have successfully connected to the wireless network, you can link your AeroGarden to the application to adjust your light timer, check the water level, and reset the plant food timer.
- Open the AeroGarden App and select the model garden you want to pair.
- Read through the on-screen prompts then tap 'Next'.
- Your camera should open allowing you to scan the code that appears on the AeroGarden screen.
- Once the scan code is accepted, you will be prompted to name the Garden.
- Now you have successfully linked your AeroGarden!
How do I set up and use Alexa voice commands for my AeroGarden?
With an easy command, Alexa can turn the light On or Off on any of your WiFi enabled AeroGardens: Bounty, Bounty Elite, and all Farm models. Alexa will also recognize the name you have given to your garden. Just use a command like, "Alexa, turn Kitchen Garden off". Add the AeroGarden Skill so Alexa can connect to your AeroGarden. Click here for images of connecting to Alexa or click here for images of troubleshooting.
How do I troubleshoot login failures or “invalid credentials” in the new AeroGarden app?
Please check that you are using the correct email address for your login and using the appropriate login method (email, Apple, or Google). If you still have issues, please reset your email login method password here.
Why are my paired AeroGarden devices missing from the app after I log in?
Please check that you are using the correct email address and password for your devices and using the appropriate login method (email, Apple, or Google). If you are still having issues, try unpairing and repairing your device to your account.
How do I fix read-only issues or unresponsive settings in the AeroGarden app?
If you are having problems adjusting settings for your device, please check that your devices are powered on, you have give the app access to your WiFi, and check that both your phone and devices are on the same WiFi network. For Bluetooth devices, you will need to give the app permission to access Bluetooth. If you are still having issues, please try unpairing and repairing your device to your account.
How do I troubleshoot AeroGarden pairing failures after logging into the app?
Please check that your device is connected to the same WiFi network as your phone and that you have given the app permission for WiFi and Bluetooth access. Contact us if you continue to have issues pairing your device.
How do I link my AeroGarden account to Apple or Google for easier login?
We are excited to begin offering additional login methods in the new AeroGarden app. Transferring your devices to one of these new login methods will occur automatically if you use the same email address between the two accounts. If you wish to use a different email address, you will need to unpair and repair your devices.
Is the AeroGarden app compatible with all AeroGarden models?
Due to hardware incompatibilities and security updates, some Classic garden models will not be supported in the new app. These include: Harvest Classic, Bounty Classic, and first generation of Farms (2017). However, you can continue to use your Classic gardens and first generation Farms without the app.