iDOO 12Pods Hydroponics Growing System Garden with LED Grow Light

Why it's worth it

The iDOO packs 12 pods, a 4.5-liter tank and a small circulation fan into a box smaller than the big AeroGarden, for a fraction of what the name brands charge. The light arm rises as plants grow, but only to about 11 inches.

Twelve pods changes what you can plant. With a six-pod garden you're rationing — basil or cilantro, not both. Here you can run four basil for pesto, a couple of mints for tea, parsley and thyme, and still have holes left to start something new. The 4.5-liter tank carries a mature planting a week or two between refills, and a window on the side shows the level.

The fan is the unusual part. It runs at intervals to move air across the leaves, which thickens stems and cuts down on the damp, still air that invites mold in a closed kitchen. The pump aerates the water on a cycle and stays quiet enough for an open-plan room. You'll notice it if you listen for it, and forget it otherwise.

From our review of 7 smart garden systems for fresh herbs, by Laura Cole, Lifestyle Editor

What we like

• +Twelve pods changes what you can plant
• +The fan is the unusual part
• +Setup takes an evening at most
• +Build quality is fine rather than lovely — molded plastic, a clear water window, nothing precious

What to know

• –The arm stops around 11 inches, so woody and leggy herbs are out
• –You're the reminder system here