Growing Happiness Indoors: The Unfiltered Truth about Click & Grow

Let’s talk about the struggle.

Between work deadlines, family meltdowns, and that ever-present to-do list, finding space for a little “me time” feels like scaling Everest in flip-flops.

For me personally, once I discovered that I could garden and actually keep things alive AND provide some wholesome goodness for my family, I became hooked. I love being outside with the feel of the breeze, the warmth of the sun, and the sounds of the wildlife that live in the lake adjacent to our yard.

Unfortunately, between late hours at work, a rogue group of neighborhood iguanas that are convinced my garden is a salad bar, and the intense South Florida heat, I knew I wanted to add something different to my gardening life – something easy, something indoors.

Enter Click & Grow, the Smart Garden that promises fresh herbs and veggies without the usual green-thumb woes.

This countertop hydroponic system comes in a variety of stylesand sizes – but there are also several competitors out there that have similar functionality.

I initially chose Click & Grow over its competitors due to its simplicity (no need to add separate chemicals or fertilizers) and its price. But since then, I have come to realize that most systems are similar enough that it really doesn’t  matter which one you choose if you enjoy the concept that it provides.

 So, does ‘ this tech-powered sprout-master live up to the hype? I put it to the test, and here’s the unfiltered scoop.

First things first, Click & Grow pods are bursting with life, thanks to the machine’s LED grow lights and tank-based watering system.

The pods are pre-seeded, the water tank has a handy refill indicator, and the whole thing practically runs on autopilot. No messy soil, no complicated timers, just fresh herbs and a healthy dose of personal satisfaction.

Click & Grow aims to recreate the gardening magic indoors, and for the most part, it succeeds. My kids loved watching the pods sprout and helping me harvest the herbs and cherry tomatoes.

There’s also no denying the calming power of watching something grow and this machine offered a welcome break from the screen-filled chaos. Watching those tiny leaves unfurl was strangely therapeutic and brought a little bit of the outdoors into our home.

So, What’s the Click & Grow Verdict?

Pros:

The Click & Grow is convenient, healthy, and surprisingly calming. Plus, who can resist the satisfaction of snipping homegrown basil for your pesto?

The water is easy to refill with a convenient fill spout and the plants are easy to start with a great selection of fertilized, pre-seeded pods specifically selected so that the plants remain size-appropriate.

At my home, we purchased the Smart Garden 9, which was the perfect size for our kitchen countertop. However, most of these companies offer appliances with a range from small, 3-pod tanks to large free-standing vertical systems that can accommodate over 50 plants at a time.

Cons:

Pre-seeded pod selection is somewhat limited – but most companies offer “seedless pods” which allow you to use your own seeds. Just remember that you will be limited by the depth of your system and the height of your lights. So, if you choose to use your own seeds, try to select plants that are listed as “mini”, “container”, or “dwarf” varieties for best results.

Pods can become a little pricy. Most companies, including Click & Grow, offer subscription services at a reduced price and access to a loyalty program where you can earn points through your purchases. Alternatively, many folks opt to utilize off-brand pods, filling substrate, or soil – just be sure to read your warranty details to ensure that none of the stipulations are voided.

For us, the Smart Garden 9 became a bit of a statement piece. We use it primarily for herbs, small varieties of tomatoes (Orange Hat is my favorite), and a splash of flowers for color.

I love how easy it is to maintain and keep clean and I LOVE the way it looks on the counter.

So, is it worth it? If you really want to grow your plants indoors in an attractive one-package container and don’t mind the cost, then Click & Grow (or any of its competitors) is a great addition to your home. Personally, I really enjoy having it in my kitchen. And I love growing my own basil, sage, and dill.

However, not everyone can comfortably afford to have one of these systems at home. If that is the case, don’t let it hold you back from starting your own little indoor garden. With an inexpensive packet of seeds, some recycled containers from the fridge, and some cheap grow lights you can start your own little healthy paradise at home at a fraction of the price.

So, is the Click & Grow a great product? Yes.

Do I love it? Yes

Do you need it? No

So, have any of you tried Click & Grow or any similar systems? What are your thoughts? Share your experiments and adventures in the comments below – and Happy Gardening!

Click the link for more information on the Click & Grow (not an affiliate link): Indoor Herb Gardens and Indoor Gardening Kits | Click & Grow (clickandgrow.com)