Forced Green

Hydroponics, simply put, is the process of growing plants in water and not soil. The
nutrient rich water circulates around and saturates the seed or plant root. The root
does not have to “hunt” around in the soil for the nutrients, ergo, stronger, faster
growing plants. No need for the environmentally toxic pesticides of commercial
growers.

I have always had a keen interest in hydroponics. But I never had the time or the
know how to pursue it. That changed last December when I saw an ad for Aerogarden.
A revolutionary, self-contained, hydroponic device, that does all the work for you.
It grows a variety of herbs, fruits, vegetables, and even flowers, simply, easily,
and naturally, right on your kitchen counter, year round.

So, I bought one (about $150.00), It came with everything you need plus a Gourmet
Herb Seed kit that has pre-seeded grow pods for basil, Italian basil, thyme, dill,
mint, chives, and parsley.

Oh brother, did that stuff grow!! I made my friends and neighbors pretty happy, the
herbs flourished so well I was giving it away. And you can’t get any fresher than
reaching over and picking the herb of your choice right off the still growing
plant.

This went on for the last 5 months. Just yesterday, I took the system down and
cleaned it to get ready for the next “crop”. I’m going to try the Salad Greens
seed kit this time.

Plus, I did NOT notice any significant increase in my electric bill with the
Aerogarden either. Because of the grow lights in the system, I was watching
the usage pretty close.

Now just imagine, Aerogarden for your herbs and vegetables, along with that
trash composter (Nature Mill), that turns the bulk of your bio trash into
rich compost, you are working towards green self suffiency, even if you live
in an apartment or condo.

It may not be Bio-Domes, but hey, we’re getting there, kids!