PRODUCT: Microgarden
TESTED: Winter 2009
OVERALL SCORE: 89%
ELIAB’S SCORE: 100%

FEEDBACK

Was the system easy to set up and install?
Yes.

Do you think the operating instructions are clear for all levels of grower?
Yes. What could represent a challenge for the novice (e.g. plumbing fittings) is already pre-assembled.

What growth media did you use?
I used what was included: Ready-Gro mix and silica stones.

What plants did you grow in the system?
Purple bells, Bhut Jolokia, Dorset Naga, & Aji Dulce.

How often were they dripped/flooded?
Flooded every 3.5 hours for 30 minutes, 4 times per light cycle.

Did you use natural light or artificial?
Artificial, under compact fluorescents totaling 7,450 lumens at canopy level.

Were the growth rates satisfactory?
More than satisfactory: it surpassed all my expectations!

Did the system become overcrowded?
Yes, it did, in only 15 days after seedlings were transferred to the system. But that’s a good thing: it translates to rapid, no B.S. growth!

Was it an easy system to maintain? pH, nutrient changes, etc?
Yes. CNS-17, the nutrient sample included, is an excellent hydroponic nutrient & very pH-stable.

SUMMARY

Any tweaks you would suggest to the design?
No, these guys thought of everything! For a system its size, it is one tough pony!

How was the harvest?
I have never tasted more flavorful, redder & fleshy Aji Dulce peppers than those that went into my saucepan today.

Would you use it to grow again?
Are you kidding? This baby’s staying with me for as long as I grow indoors!

Did you use the supplied nutrients with the system? If so, what did you think?
Yes; CNS-17 is awesome. Too bad my local shop does not carry it!

What do you think the ideal application is for this system?
Early veg/rooting cloning (by growing in smaller, shallower planters, removing 2 of the 3 drain extensions & decreasing watering frequency), and for late veg/pre-flowering. Smaller plants like herbs & some orchids may be grown to maturity.

ELIAB RATES THE MICROGARDEN: 100%

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