AeroGarden Harvest Review: Models, Features, and Tips

Short on space or time but still dreaming of a garden? The AeroGarden indoor system is here to make that possible. This smart garden kit lets you grow a variety of plants right in your home. You may choose from herbs and veggies to flowers and even fruits. It’s the perfect fit for anyone looking to cultivate their green thumb within a limited indoor space.

AeroGarden is all about simplicity, cleanliness, and keeping those pesky bugs at bay. It is powered by a hydroponic system. This means that soil is replaced by water and a nutrient solution. A setup like this means you get all the freshness and flavor of home-grown produce without the mess.

Through the years, AeroGarden has crafted different Garden Families to suit various needs and tastes. Among these, the Harvest series stands out. The popularity of this 6-Pod garden cannot be emphasized more. I’ll go over each model for you so you can make a more informed purchase decision.

• Related article: Best AeroGarden to Buy

7 Key Takeaways on AeroGarden Harvest Review

1. The AeroGarden Harvest series includes models like Harvest 2.0, Harvest Elite, Harvest Elite 360, and Harvest XL. Each model offers different features and sizes to suit various indoor gardening needs.
2. All AeroGarden Harvest models accommodate 6 plant pods. This strikes a balance between smaller Sprout models and larger Bounty models in terms of pod capacity.
3. Models like the Harvest Elite and Harvest Elite 360 feature a powerful 20W LED light system. The Harvest 2.0 and Harvest XL vary with 15W and 25W respectively, ensuring optimal growth conditions for plants.
4. The AeroGarden Harvest setup eliminates the need for pest control and maximizes nutrient content. This makes it ideal for growing herbs, vegetables, and fruits indoors under controlled conditions.
5. With 30 seed kit varieties of herbs, vegetables, flowers, and fruits, you can continually experiment and enjoy a diverse range of home-grown produce.
6. Each AeroGarden Harvest package includes essential components like seed kits, nutrient solutions, and instructions for setup and maintenance.
7. Features like vacation mode (available in Harvest Elite and Harvest Elite 360) allow for energy-efficient operation with reduced light hours. It also prolongs plant growth and conserves water.

What Is the AeroGarden Harvest?

The different Garden Families of AeroGarden include Sprout, Bounty, Harvest, and Farm. In this review, we will focus on the Harvest series.

With terms such as Elite, Elite 360, XL, and 2.0, the Harvest series might seem like a lot to take on. But worry not! I will make sure that all of these are discussed properly in the following sections.

One thing that is common among all Harvest models is their 6-plant pod capacity. They come in between the Sprout models and Bounty models in terms of the number of seed pots that they can cater to.

The Harvest Elite and Harvest Elite 360 models sport a powerful 20W LED light system while the Harvest 2.0 and Harvest XL use a 15W and 25W LED light system respectively.

The Harvest garden setup removes the need for pest control as it allows you to grow plants indoors in a more controlled environment. It also ensures that your greens pack maximum nutrition. With 30 seed kits to choose from, you will always have a variety of herbs, vegetables, and fruits in your home.

Ready to pick the perfect AeroGarden Harvest model? Let’s explore the features and benefits of this series.

What Models Are Part of the AeroGarden Harvest Series?

Below is a chart that I made for an easy comparison of the models in the AeroGarden Harvest family.

Harvest, Harvest 360, and Harvest Elite Slim used to be part of the Harvest series but they have already been discontinued. User feedback was taken in to improve these models, which gave rise to the Harvest 2.0 and Harvest XL versions.

Check the AeroGarden Amazon store for the latest special Harvest family deals.

What Features Does an AeroGarden Harvest Have?

Most of the features of the AeroGarden Harvest models are already mentioned above. But since I enjoy talking about things in detail, let’s look at each of them individually.

AeroGarden Harvest Setup and Use

Each AeroGarden Harvest package includes the following upon delivery:

• Your Harvest model of choice: A 6-Pod Indoor Garden
• 15W/20W/25W LED Grow Light System (watts vary per model)
• 9-Pod Seed Kit (Gourmet Herbs, Heirloom Salad, Red Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes, or Cascading Petunias) for all models except Harvest 2.0 which gives you the Bonus lettuce seed packet and Growing Starter Kit
• Plant Food Liquid Nutrients
• Power Adapter
• Removeable Trellis (available in the XL model only)

Each model comes with instructions. For ease of setup, let me walk you through the steps for Harvest 2.0. I made it a point to discuss this one because Harvest Elite, Harvest Elite 360, and Harvest XL all follow the setup for pre-seeded pods just like the Bounty models. You may check out their setup instructions here.

Harvest 2.0 Setup Tips:

1. Place the post into the bowl until it reaches the bottom. Ensure the pump and power connectors face the back.
2. Attach the hood onto the post until it clicks into place.
3. Connect the pump and power cord adapter to the post.
4. Remove all parts from the bowl and place the grow deck back on it.
5. Fill the water reservoir with water up to the “Fill To Here” line. It is recommended to use tap or distilled water. Check the water level regularly to maintain this standard.
6. Add liquid plant food as instructed. The “Add Plant Food” reminder will come on every 2 weeks.
7. Write the names of seeds or plant cuttings on the seed pod labels using a permanent marker.
8. Insert seeds into the opening of the grow sponge using your fingertips or tweezers. Plant several seeds per grow sponge. For large seeds like peas or squash, cut an opening of about 1/2″ deep with scissors and insert 1-2 seeds.
9. Carefully place the grow sponge into the grow basket to avoid disturbing the seeds.
10. Insert the grow pods into the openings of the grow deck.
11. Plug your Harvest 2.0 into an outlet.

Even though these steps seem simple, it’s important to read the instructions carefully. Start by making sure that the light hood is at the lowest position on the light post during setup. Adjust it accordingly as your plants grow.

When you first plug in your AeroGarden, the grow light will switch on and repeat this cycle daily at the same time. It will automatically turn off 15 hours later. You can adjust the timing using the settings.

AeroGarden Harvest Designs and Dimensions

The AeroGarden Harvest family has four creative models.

As you can see, all four models vary in size and material finish. The Harvest Elite 360 appears to be the smallest in terms of dimension while the Harvest XL stays true to its name by being the largest.

Both the Harvest Elite and Harvest Elite 360 have a stainless steel finish. The Harvest 2.0 is offered in matte finish only while the Harvest XL is available in both matte or plastic finish.

The size and build of the Harvest series make them a perfect addition to your kitchen counter.

AeroGarden Harvest Seed Pods and Kits

The AeroGarden Harvest is a great choice for home gardening. Each model in this series features 6 spaces for seed pods. They also come with a seed kit, a growing sponge, a grow dome, and non-GMO seeds.

Inclusions of the Harvest 2.0 model vary from the rest as it does not come with pre-seeded pods but rather, a seed packet. What this means is that the user is no longer limited to growing a given number of seeds in a pod but may set it up themselves and plant several seeds per grow sponge.

Currently, there are 30 seed kits of fresh herbs, vegetables, flowers, and fruits to choose from. If your desired plants aren’t included on the list, you can opt for the Grow Anything Seed Pod Kit.

Because the Harvest Garden can grow many varieties, you may refer to the list below for the usual sprouting time:

• Flowers – 7 to12 days
• Salads – 5 to 8 days
• Herbs – 5 to 15 days
• Fruiting Vegetables – 7 to 14 days

Seed pods continue to yield crops continuously for at least 6 months. If a seed pod fails to sprout within 21 days, AeroGarden will replace it free of charge.

• Get to know the Top Plants to Grow in AeroGarden

AeroGarden Harvest LED Grow Lights

Unlike the AeroGarden Bounty and Farms that allow the user to customize their light cycle, the AeroGarden Harvest models operate by following a certain standard.

It will take note of the time when you first plugged it in and will turn on at the same time every day. You may change this by following these steps:

1. Make sure to do this step at the time that you want your grow light to turn on every day.
2. Press and hold the Lights On/Off button for about 3 seconds until it blinks three times, then release.
3. Your LED lights will flash once to confirm the new setting. From now on, your grow lights will automatically turn on at your new set time every day.

For the Harvest 2.0 and Harvest XL, the lights will stay on for 15 hours after it has been turned on. For the Harvest Elite and Harvest Elite 360, the lights will stay on depending on the type of plant being grown.

Remember to continually adjust the grow light height to allow plenty of space as your plants grow bigger. They may burn when placed too close to the light.

If you want to make your plants grow larger, you can purchase an AeroGarden Harvest light extension online.

AeroGarden Harvest Controls, Adjustments, and Connectivity

AeroGarden system’s control panel includes essential features like reminders for plant food. However, all four models have no access to touchscreen, dimmable lights, and Wi-Fi. Some features like reminders for water are present in all except Harvest 2.0. Vacation mode is also exclusive to the Harvest Elite and Harvest Elite 360 models.

Each AeroGarden Harvest has a different control panel. Unfortunately, Harvest models don’t have Wi-Fi or voice assistant capabilities, unlike Bounty Models.

AeroGarden Harvest Vacation Mode

For the Harvest models, vacation mode is only available in the Harvest Elite and Harvest Elite 360.

You can set vacation mode by pressing the leaf button once. Scroll down the menu and choose “Plant Select” by clicking the leaf button. Scroll down until you see “Vacation Mode” then click the leaf button again to confirm your choice.

When Vacation Mode is activated, the grow lights will only be on for 10 hours per day. This slows down plant growth and reduces water evaporation.

AeroGarden Harvest Final Thoughts

The AeroGarden Harvest series offers a versatile solution for indoor gardening enthusiasts. With its compact design and options like the Harvest 2.0, Harvest Elite, Harvest Elite 360, and Harvest XL, there’s a model to suit various needs and space requirements.

Each Harvest model supports continuous harvests with its 6-plant pod capacity. This ensures a steady supply of fresh herbs, vegetables, or fruits right at your fingertips. The system simplifies gardening with features like automated LED grow lights and reminders for water and plant food. 

Whether you’re starting with the included seed kits or opting for the Grow Anything Seed Pod Kit, the AeroGarden Harvest series makes indoor gardening accessible and enjoyable. With its user-friendly setup and maintenance, it’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to grow fresh produce year-round.

AeroGarden Harvest FAQs

1. Is AeroGarden Harvest Elite Worth It?

Sure! The AeroGarden Harvest Elite is an impressive hydroponic garden that lives up to its promises. Its light settings offer more flexibility than the Harvest 2.0 and Harvest XL. It also has a special vacation mode setting where you can leave your plants to grow while you are away. You will only need to switch to higher models like the Bounty if you’re planning to grow more plants and feed a bigger number of people.

2. Can I Grow Carrots in AeroGarden?

Avoid planting tuberous plants like carrots, beets, potatoes, or peanuts in an AeroGarden unless you intend to transplant them shortly after they sprout.

3. What’s the Difference Between a Harvest Elite and a Harvest Model?

Both the Harvest Elite and Harvest models can grow up to 6 plants, each 12 inches tall or shorter. However, the Harvest Elite stands out as a more advanced option. It includes special features like a premium finish, vacation mode (for when you’re away), extra displays and timers, quieter water pumps, and the ability to adjust the light settings to suit your needs.

Learn more about AeroGarden with these great related articles:

• Honest AeroGarden Farm Review
• Cleaning an AeroGarden
• Resetting AeroGarden
• AeroGarden Light Issues