Click and Grow is one of the most recognised smart garden systems in Europe, mainly because it is simple to use and visually compact. It is an Estonian brand built around self-watering indoor gardens that rely on pre-seeded proprietary pods designed for low-maintenance growing. You can read a general background overview on Wikipedia.
That simplicity is exactly why many users eventually start looking for alternatives. Below is an objective look at the best Click and Grow alternatives, based on common customer feedback, independent reviews, and practical differences that matter in everyday use.
What customers commonly like and dislike about Click and Grow
Across reviews on gardening blogs, forums, and long-term comparison articles, several patterns appear consistently.
- Setup is extremely easy and beginner-friendly, even for people with no plant experience.
- The proprietary pod system limits flexibility, especially for growers who want to use their own seeds.
- Pods can become expensive over time compared to open systems that allow standard seeds.
- Plant size is often limited, making Click and Grow best suited for herbs and small leafy greens rather than fruiting plants.
Reviews comparing Click and Grow to other systems often highlight these limitations, especially for users who want more control or better long-term value. Examples include detailed comparisons published by independent gardening blogs such as Blackberry Babe and Sher She Grows.
LetPot as a Click and Grow alternative
For users who like the idea of an indoor hydroponic garden but want more flexibility, LetPot systems are frequently mentioned as a strong alternative. Unlike Click and Grow, LetPot uses an open hydroponic approach that allows growers to use their own seeds and adjust plant selection freely.
Independent product roundups have highlighted LetPot as a value-focused option. For example, Wired included LetPot models in its list of recommended indoor gardening systems, pointing out their open growing design and lower long-term cost compared to pod-based systems (Wired – Best Indoor Gardening Systems).
Common reasons customers choose LetPot over Click and Grow include:
- No proprietary seed pods, which reduces ongoing costs.
- More space for roots and larger plants.
- Better suitability for growing herbs, leafy greens, and even some fruiting plants.
At IndoorGarden, LetPot systems are positioned as a flexible alternative for people who want to grow beyond basic herbs while still keeping setup and maintenance manageable. You can explore the range under smart gardens.
Other notable Click and Grow alternatives
AeroGarden (legacy systems)
AeroGarden is often compared directly with Click and Grow. Many users report stronger lighting and adjustable lamp height, which supports larger plants. However, AeroGarden has announced a wind-down of its business operations, with continued product availability depending on region and retailer. Coverage of this development can be found in outlets such as The Verge.
Because of this uncertainty, many customers are now looking for longer-term alternatives rather than investing in a platform with unclear future support.
iDOO hydroponic growing systems
iDOO systems are often recommended in budget-focused reviews. They support standard seeds, include built-in lighting, and are typically cheaper than Click and Grow units. While they lack premium design features, customers generally praise them for practicality and value.
They are particularly popular with growers who want to use their own herb seeds or leafy green seeds instead of proprietary pods.
Auk Mini indoor garden
The Auk Mini is often mentioned for its minimalist design and open growing system. A detailed review by Wired highlights its use of coconut coir and standard seeds instead of closed cartridges (Wired – Auk Mini Review).
Customer feedback tends to focus on aesthetics and solid herb performance, making it appealing for users who want an indoor garden that blends into modern interiors.
Which Click and Grow alternative makes sense for you?
The best alternative depends on what you value most:
- If maximum simplicity matters more than flexibility, Click and Grow still works well.
- If you want freedom to choose seeds and lower long-term costs, LetPot and iDOO systems are more suitable.
- If plant size and stronger growth matter, open hydroponic systems outperform sealed pod gardens.
- If design and aesthetics are a priority, Auk Mini stands out.
Many growers eventually move away from proprietary pod systems as their confidence grows. For those users, flexible systems paired with quality seeds and accessories from categories like seeds for indoor garden and hydroponics and indoor gardening accessories provide more control without significantly increasing effort.
