For the past year, I’ve been testing 13 of the most popular indoor smart garden systems, from the Gardyn Home 4.0 to the Auk Mini. These gardens are designed for those who can’t—or don’t want to—have a conventional outdoor plot but still desire fresh produce and plants in their homes.

Each system offers something unique: the Gardyn Home 4.0 claims total success with no green thumb required, while the Auk Mini is perfect for those just wanting herbs without the fuss. I’ve found that hydroponic systems like these can grow anything from microgreens to lettuce, but not everything—no long roots or trees allowed.

The downsides? These gardens are costly and require regular maintenance, including dealing with power outages, pump upkeep, and algae growth. Yet, the benefits of cleaner produce and higher yields are undeniable. Plus, they’re a stylish addition to any home interior.

Hydroponic systems use significantly less water than traditional methods, making them an eco-friendly choice for many. However, it’s worth noting that growing your own veggies might not always save you money compared to supermarket prices, but the convenience and satisfaction of doing so are hard to beat.