Frequently asked questions about the smartGarten
Why are simplePlant and the smartGärten sustainable?
First and foremost, smartGärten are sustainable because they keep your plants alive for a long time. This means, for example, that you don't have to constantly buy new, plastic-packed herbs from the supermarket, which often have long transport routes behind them. At the same time, the hydroponic system ensures extremely low water & fertilizer consumption. Furthermore, we take special care to use sustainable materials, which we source from local partners.
What distinguishes the smartGarten from other smart indoor gardens?
The smartGärten, unlike other Smart Indoor Gardens, are not made of plastic, but of wood and stainless steel. So it is sustainable and made of materials that are safe for health. At the same time, you can read unique sensor data via the intuitive app for optimal growth. In addition, the modular system allows an enormous variety of plants and the choice between efficient hydroponics and classic soil.
What distinguishes hydroponics from soil?
With hydroponics, the seeds are in a substrate and the roots are suspended in a water-based nutrient solution. This avoids the known problems of growing with soil: dirt, pests, waste of water and fertilizer, and suboptimal growth.
What is the power consumption of the smartGärten?
The maximum power consumption is 18 watts for the smartGarten S, 36 watts for the smartGarten M and 48 watts for the smartGarten X. However, most of the time the smartGardens consume about 70% of the mentioned power.
Does the smartGarten work all year round?
Yes, the smartGärten are designed to work all year round. You can also dim the lights in the summer if you have a good window spot. The user manual will help you find the right place.
Where can I set up the smartGärten?
The smartGärten can be placed indoors almost anywhere. It only needs a power connection and should preferably not be placed directly next to a heater or air conditioner. Balanced air circulation is an advantage.
What do I do with the smartGarten when I am on vacation?
Replenish the water & give your plants enough nutrients according to the directions in the app before you go on vacation. If your plants are already large, prune them generously so they don't grow into the lighting. You can also reduce the light intensity to 70% or set the light cycle to 10 hours per day so that the plants don't consume too many resources. This way you can leave your plants for up to 5 weeks without any problems.
Questions about plants & nutrients
Are the seeds in the simpleCups BIO?
Yes, all simpleCups are pre-seeded with organic seeds. We use organic and biodynamic seeds of seed-stable varieties from Bingenheimer Saatgut AG.
Why are plants from the smartGarten healthier than from the supermarket?
The plants are healthier because they are the best possible organic seeds and you harvest the plants fresh. Thus, there are no pollutants and the nutrients can not escape.
What plants grow in the smartGarden?
Pretty much all plants thrive in the smartGardens. However, our beds grow best. The beds are combinations of coordinated seeds in simpleCups. With them, maximum success is guaranteed. You can also try your hand at creating individual beds or test your own plants. We are looking forward to your experience reports!
When and how much can I harvest?
It all depends on what plants are growing in your smartGarten. Herbs and lettuces need about 4 to 6 weeks. Our app will tell you when and how to harvest your plants to maximize yield. You should also prune them if they grow into the lighting or if they shade other smaller plants.
Why is the light in the smartGarten so good for my plants?
The LED modules in the smartGärten offer exactly the wavelengths that your plants need. This makes them grow particularly fast, healthy and strong.
How often do I need to water and fertilize?
It depends on the plants in your smartGarten. But as a rule, you should water for the first time about five weeks after starting. Fertilize about every 2 weeks. Please pay attention to the information in the app!
What is the difference between the simpleCups and Earth?
Plants grown in simpleCups grow significantly faster, stronger and healthier! Due to the even distribution of water and oxygen, as well as an optimal pH level, the roots can grow ideally and sufficiently absorb all necessary nutrients. In addition, simpleCups are guaranteed to be free of pests, hormones, or pesticides, and they make less mess than growing in soil. All you have to do is insert the pre-seeded simpleCups into your smartGarten and the rest works almost by itself!
What are the simpleCups made of?
Our simpleCups are made of 100% compostable biological material. They provide an even distribution of water and oxygen and an optimal pH level. The simpleCups guarantee ideal growth without pesticides, hormones, pests and dirt.
How do I use the simpleCups?
You need to remove the sticker from the pre-seeded simpleCups, then place them in the pots, select the appropriate program in the app and watch the plants grow!
What's in the fertilizer?
Our fertilizers contain minerals from Germany and Switzerland, which meet the highest quality standards. The main components are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, as well as other important trace elements.
Will more beds be offered soon?
Yes, we are continuously testing new plants and collecting data so that we can integrate them into our plant program. For example, the upcoming beds will consist of radishes, peppers, and more lettuces and herbs.
Questions about the smartGarten app
Do I need an app to control the smartGarten?
The app is necessary for the full use of smartGärten. Although the plants will grow without it, the results will be compromised because you have no control over the lighting and no information about the fill level and nutrient content. The app initially connects to the smartGarten via Bluetooth. In the near future, WiFi will also be possible. This will make the app usable on the go. All smartGardens are already equipped accordingly.
Where can I install the app?
You can install the app on all popular smartphones (Android or iOS). Just search for simplePlant or smartGarten in the App Store or Google Play Store and click Download/Install.
What does the app do for me?
With the app you control your garden: On the one hand you choose the appropriate plant program & adjust the lighting. On the other hand, with the help of the sensor data read out, you learn how your plants are doing & what you can do to make them even better. Incorrect plant care is therefore virtually impossible!
Can I control multiple smartGardens with the app?
Yes, you can control more than one smartGarten with the app. Just change your device in the connection settings!
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