I received this as a gift for my new apartment about 2 months ago and I have to say that this might be one of the best little gifts for someone. I have never done any real plant growing, but I do like cooking so this is perfect for me. Plus it makes the room smell nice. Generally I find these DIY home grower type things to be really stupid, but this is pretty awesome and here's why:
This comes in a sealed aluminum can prepacked with the seeds and soil so you could give this to someone before a move and they don't have to worry about keeping a plant alive while moving.
Just pop the top and add water to being. Continue watering as needed. I think there are instructions, but I have never actually checked. The can does not have holes on the bottom, which is nice because who wants mud on their counter right? Because there are no holes, they put some special stuff in the soul to make sure it doesn't over-saturate. It seems to be working well, but don't go dumping too much water in it ok? Just make sure the dirt stays damp to touch and you will be good to go. I won't drown my plant in the name of science, so just act in moderation.
The plant grows as expected. The soil has enough seeds to make sure you get some healthy growth. I had 4 sprout, but I am down to 3 still living since the 4th got choked out. It's a tough world out there man. Basil is somewhat sensitive from what I have seen and some of my leaves are getting a little brown from the direct sunlight. I would recommend not doing what I have done. Perhaps you could read the instructions, but you won't catch me doing that.
You can either buy single herb cans from the manufacturer, or you can buy a 4 can set for around $20. I just have the basil, but adding dill, mint. and cilantro would be nice. Doesn't this look cool?
