Indoor Bubbleponics

Ever wanted to grow herbs and veggies indoors, away from the birds, squirrels, and bugs? I know I have tried and tried; using windows and even grow lights to provide ample light but without results! This led to a research quest of how the experts at NASA plan on growing plants for the cosmonauts.  

(The zucchini plant floating freely in microgravity on the ISS. Credit: Don Pettit)

It was then that I learned about the space-age technology of AeroGarden. Not quite aeroponics, not quite hydroponics, but something in-between that I have read described as Bubbleponics!



In December 2012, I had the opportunity to work at two of three AeroGarden Kiosks in America. I jumped at the opportunity to learn more about the gardens and hear what my customers had to say. All of our units were growing in classic American Malls and the reactions were almost comical. Many people simply didn't believe that plants were real and were compelled to touch and smell if not eat the herbs, salads and tomatoes!

Tomatoes grown in the Chandler Mall!

Interestingly I also had the opportunity to chat with people that were happy owners of AeroGardens for 6+ years and learn about what they grew. I was happy to learn that you can even permaculture an AeroGarden by planting tomatoes, salad greens, and herbs at one time and setting "advanced features" for an indoor homegrown salad bar. Yummy!

Basil is always the first to sprout and will be the first herb to harvest after as little as two weeks. After 45 days the quality and quantity is breathtaking. The thyme was growing over the edge of the base, the basil could be harvested every other day, but what really inspired people as they passed was the smell of fresh herbs. No bugs, no dirt just fresh, aromatic, organic herbs! After two months in the mall I could have opened a salad bar!







As food prices continue to rise I hope that more and more people start growing herbs, vegetables, and even fruit! One person that stopped by the kiosk mentioned that their family uses the AeroGarden to grow transplants for their outdoor garden. They have had so much success that they bought a garden starter system so they could start as many as 60 plants! What a value! If transplants cost $2 each they are growing $120 worth of plants. AeroGardens also do well starting slow to grow plants like lavender and sweet marjoram. The possibilities are endless! Feel free to comment with your own AeroGarden experiments and inspirations.


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