Hey everyone, I’ve been experimenting with various hydroponic systems for a while now, and today I’d like to share my thoughts on two top-notch hydroponic systems from Aerogarden.
The key difference between the Aerogarden Harvest and the Aerogarden Harvest Slim lies in the arrangement of the grow holes. In the Harvest model, the holes are evenly distributed across the growing deck. Meanwhile, in the Harvest Slim, the holes are lined up in a single row. This is because of the varying shapes and sizes of the grow decks in these two units.
| Product Feature | Aerogarden Harvest | Aerogarden Harvest Slim |
|---|---|---|
| Size (HxWxD) | 17.3″x10.4″x5.6″ (44×26.5×14.3cm) | 17.7″x15.1″x4.8″ (45×38.5×12.3cm) |
| Number of pods | 6 | 6 |
| LED power | 20 W | 20 W |
| Wi-Fi/App | No | No |
| Tank capacity | 2.4 L | 2.4 L |
| Max grow height | 11″ (28 cm) | 11″ (28 cm) |
| Min grow height | 4.7″ (12 cm) | 4.7″ (12 cm) |
| Screen | No | No |
| Low Water Reminder | Yes | Yes |
| Nutrient Reminder | Yes | Yes |
| Material Finish | Matte Plastic | Matte Plastic |
| Trellis system | No | No |
| Price | $79.95 | $79.95 |
Size and shape
Aerogarden Harvest
The Harvest model measures 10.4 inches in width and 5.6 inches in depth, while the Harvest Slim is 15.1 inches wide and 4.8 inches deep. This results in a different layout for the growing holes: they’re evenly distributed across the deck on the Harvest, whereas on the Harvest Slim, they’re aligned in a single row.
The distance between the grow holes in both models is the same, coming in at just over two inches from center to center. The holes also have the same diameter, making the seed pods interchangeable between the two systems.
When it comes to maximum growing height, both the Harvest and Harvest Slim have a limit of 11 inches. The lighting support is also the same for both models, offering several height positions.
Overall, the size and shape of each system do influence the best way to place them. The experience of growing plants in each also varies slightly, which I’ll delve into in the next chapter.
Aerogarden Harvest Slim
Read also: 5 Hydroponic Systems for Your Home
User experience
The slim design of the Harvest Slim makes it ideal for tight spaces, like on a kitchen countertop. You can easily tuck it against the wall and still have plenty of room for cooking activities.
This isn’t the case with the standard Harvest model. Its greater depth and narrower width mean it occupies more space in front of it, limiting where you can place it.
The Harvest Slim also has an advantage in that plants can grow sideways beyond the deck. While this is possible with the regular Harvest, it’s to a lesser extent. For instance, if you’re growing lettuce, you might only be able to fit four plants in the Harvest, whereas the Harvest Slim can accommodate up to six.
However, there’s a minor downside to the Harvest Slim: it has a smaller water inlet, making it less convenient to refill. In contrast, the standard Harvest model has a filling hole that’s almost twice as large, making water refills much easier.
All in all, the Harvest Slim is great for smaller spaces and narrow shelves. It provides a bit more growing space for your plants. On the other hand, the standard Harvest offers a traditional hydroponic setup with evenly spaced grow holes.
Price
As of writing this, both the Harvest and Harvest Slim are available for a discounted price of $79.95 on the manufacturer’s website, down from their regular price of $89.95. Interestingly, the Harvest Slim used to be slightly more expensive than the standard Harvest model.
When it comes to Amazon pricing, the Harvest is currently listed at $73.99, while the Harvest Slim is considerably more expensive at $119.90.
So, is the Harvest Slim worth the extra cost? In my opinion, it’s not. If you’re looking for a quality hydroponic system, I’d recommend going with the standard Harvest. The Harvest Slim only makes sense if you can get it at the same price as the regular Harvest.
Pros
| Harvest | Harvest Slim |
|---|---|
| Unique water distribution system | Better suited for small places |
| High efficiency | More space for plants |
| Efficient LEDs | Larger light diffusion area |
| Low operating costs | Unique water distribution system |
| Reliable pump | The growing holes are arranged in a single row |
| Water level sensor | Easier to maintain |
| Plant food reminder | Quality materials |
| Large fill hole | Quick setup |
| Many alternatives of consumables | Easy to control |
Cons
| Harvest | Harvest Slim |
|---|---|
| Price | The price may be excessive |
| No Wi-Fi/App | No Wi-Fi/App |
| No covers for unused holes | No covers for unused holes |
| Grow height | Small filling hole |
Other features
I’d like to highlight some similarities between the two devices. Both the Harvest and Harvest Slim feature bowls with a 2.5-liter capacity. Located at the bottom of these bowls is a high-quality pump that circulates water to the grow deck.
What really distinguishes all Aerogarden hydroponic systems, including these two, from other brands is their grow deck. This deck includes channels that deliver nutrient-rich water straight to the plant roots, and it also better oxygenates the water.
Both models are impressively quiet, emitting no more than 35 dBA of noise, making them quite suitable for home use.
When it comes to lighting, each unit sports a 20-watt LED system. The Harvest Slim, however, has a more elongated light hood, resulting in a slightly larger illuminated area.
The control panel on both devices is straightforward, featuring just three buttons. You can set when the lights should come on, although they are programmed to run for 15 hours a day by default. There’s also a handy plant food reminder option.
Both systems come with a water level sensor. When the water level drops, one of the control panel buttons starts flashing red as a warning.
Even though the two models look different, they both require regular water refills and replacements. Personally, I change the water every two weeks and add plant food at the same time.
Summary
Both the Harvest and Harvest Slim are solid options for indoor hydroponic gardening, serving as viable alternatives to one another.
The Harvest offers a traditional design commonly seen in hydroponic systems. It’s well-suited for growing a moderate amount of herbs or leafy greens.
In contrast, the Harvest Slim boasts a more unique, slimline shape, making it ideal for narrow spaces. Additionally, it has the capacity for a slightly larger yield.
That wraps up my comparison of these two systems. Best of luck with your hydroponic endeavors!