For seniors or anyone else for that matter, growing your own fresh produce at home can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience, but not everyone has the luxury of a large backyard or a green thumb. Fortunately, Aerogardens provide an easy and efficient way to grow plants indoors. These compact, counter top gardens use hydroponic technology to grow plants without soil, providing a simple and convenient solution for home gardeners.
If you’re new to the world of Aerogardens or just looking for some inspiration, this guide covers the best things to grow in an Aerogarden, along with some helpful tips and tricks to get the most out of your indoor garden.
What is an Aerogarden?
What are the Best Things to Grow in an Aerogarden?
The best things to grow in an Aerogarden are herbs like basil and cilantro, vegetables like cherry tomatoes and salad greens, flowers like petunias and marigolds, and fruits like strawberries and dwarf citrus trees.
1. Herbs
One of the most popular things to grow in an Aerogarden is herbs. These small plants are easy to grow, require minimal space, and can add fresh flavor to your meals. Here are some of the best herbs to grow in an Aerogarden:
Basil
Basil is a fragrant herb that’s commonly used in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. It’s easy to grow in an Aerogarden and can be harvested as soon as 3-4 weeks after planting. Once you start harvesting, pinch off the top leaves to encourage bushy growth.
Cilantro
Cilantro is a versatile herb that can be used in a variety of dishes, from Mexican to Asian cuisine. It’s a fast-growing herb that can be harvested as soon as 3 weeks after planting. To keep your cilantro growing strong, make sure to harvest regularly and keep the water levels consistent.
Mint
Mint is a refreshing herb that can be used in teas, cocktails, and desserts. It’s a fast-growing herb that can be harvested as soon as 3 weeks after planting. To prevent your mint from becoming too leggy, pinch off the top leaves regularly.
2. Vegetables
In addition to herbs, you can also grow a variety of vegetables in an Aerogarden. These plants require more space than herbs, but can still be grown indoors with the right equipment. Here are some of the best vegetables to grow in an Aerogarden:
Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes are a delicious addition to salads and sandwiches, and they’re easy to grow in an Aerogarden. These plants require a lot of light and space, so make sure to choose a larger Aerogarden and keep the lights on for at least 14 hours a day.
Peppers
Peppers come in a variety of colors and flavors, making them a great choice for home gardeners. They’re easy to grow in an Aerogarden and can be harvested as soon as 8 weeks after planting. Make sure to choose a variety that’s suited to indoor growing and keep the water levels consistent.
Salad Greens
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add fresh greens to your meals, consider growing salad greens in an Aerogarden. These plants require minimal space and can be harvested as soon as 3 weeks after planting. Choose a variety of greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and arugula, for a colorful and nutritious salad.
3. Flowers
In addition to herbs and vegetables, you can also grow flowers in an Aerogarden. These plants are a great way to add some color and fragrance to your home, and they’re easy to grow with the right equipment. Here are some of the best flowers to grow in an Aerogarden:
Petunias
Petunias are a popular flower that come in a variety of colors, making them a great choice for homegardeners. They’re easy to grow in an Aerogarden and can be harvested as soon as 8 weeks after planting. Make sure to choose a variety that’s suited to indoor growing and keep the lights on for at least 12 hours a day.
Marigolds
Marigolds are a hardy flower that can add some color to your home. They’re easy to grow in an Aerogarden and can be harvested as soon as 8 weeks after planting. Make sure to choose a variety that’s suited to indoor growing and keep the water levels consistent.
4. Fruit
If you’re looking for something a little sweeter, you can also grow fruit in an Aerogarden. These plants require more space and light than herbs and vegetables, but they can still be grown indoors with the right equipment. Here are some of the best fruit to grow in an Aerogarden:
Strawberries
Strawberries are a delicious fruit that can be grown in an Aerogarden with the right equipment. These plants require a lot of light and space, so make sure to choose a larger Aerogarden and keep the lights on for at least 14 hours a day. You can also add a pollination kit to help your strawberries grow.
Dwarf Citrus Trees
Dwarf citrus trees, such as lemons and limes, can be grown in an Aerogarden with the right equipment. These plants require a lot of light and space, so make sure to choose a larger Aerogarden and keep the lights on for at least 14 hours a day. You can also add a pollination kit to help your citrus trees grow.
Tips and Tricks
To get the most out of your Aerogarden, here are some helpful tips and tricks:
Choose the right size
Aerogardens come in a variety of sizes, from small countertop models to larger floor-standing models. Make sure to choose a size that’s appropriate for the plants you want to grow.
Keep the water levels consistent
Aerogardens use hydroponic technology to grow plants without soil. Make sure to keep the water levels consistent to prevent your plants from drying out or becoming waterlogged.
Choose the right plants
Not all plants are suited to indoor growing. Make sure to choose plants that are suited to your Aerogarden and the amount of light it provides.
Harvest regularly
Harvesting your plants regularly can help promote bushy growth and prevent them from becoming too leggy.
Keep the lights on
Most plants require at least 12-14 hours of light a day to grow. Make sure to keep the lights on for the appropriate amount of time to promote healthy growth.
FAQs
Can I grow anything in an Aerogarden?
While you can grow a variety of plants in an Aerogarden, not all plants are suited to indoor growing. Make sure to choose plants that are suited to your Aerogarden and the amount of light it provides.
How often should I change the water in my Aerogarden?
You should change the water in your Aerogarden every 2 weeks to prevent algae growth and keep your plants healthy.
How often should I fertilize my Aerogarden?
Aerogardens come with a nutrient solution that’s designed to provide your plants with the necessary nutrients. Make sure to follow the instructions provided and avoid over-fertilizing your plants.
Can I grow plants in an Aerogarden year-round?
Yes, you can grow plants in an Aerogarden year-round, as long as you provide them with the appropriate amount of light and water.
Can I grow multiple plants in one Aerogarden?
Yes, you can grow multiple plants in one Aerogarden, but make sure to choose plants that are suited to the size of your Aerogarden and provide enough space for each plant to grow.
Can I use my Aerogarden for seed starting?
Yes, you can use your Aerogarden for seed starting. This is a great way to get a head start on your garden and ensure that your plants are healthy before transferring them outside.
Summing Up
An Aerogarden is a great way to grow plants indoors, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out. By choosing the right plants and providing them with the appropriate amount of light and water, you can enjoy fresh produce, herbs, flowers, and even fruits all year round. With the tips and tricks in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to a thriving indoor garden in no time. Happy growing!
