#1: Click & Grow Smart Garden 9 – Best for Herbs in Low Light
Click & Grow's white LED light is less intense than AeroGarden's (200-250 PPFD vs 300-400), but it's sufficient for herbs, lettuce, and strawberries. The light color is warm white (not purple), which looks better in living spaces. The fixed height is the limitation: once plants reach 12 inches, they touch the light. Suitable for basil, mint, thyme, oregano. Not suitable for tall tomatoes. Shop Click & Grow →
#2: AeroGarden Bounty – Best for Tall Plants in Low Light
The Bounty's light arm extends to 24 inches, accommodating cherry tomatoes and peppers. The purple-pink light is harsh but highly effective (300-400 PPFD). If you want to grow fruiting plants in a windowless room, this is the choice. Downside: the light is unpleasant to look at (migraine trigger for some).
Light Intensity vs Distance: The Inverse Square Law
Light intensity drops rapidly with distance. A light that delivers 400 PPFD at 6 inches drops to 100 PPFD at 12 inches. That's why adjustable height matters. For Click & Grow (fixed height), plants that grow tall (basil) will get less light at the bottom leaves. Solution: prune regularly to keep plants bushy and low.
Can I Use a Smart Garden in a Completely Dark Room?
Yes, with a timer outlet (most gardens have built-in timers). Set light cycle to 16 hours on, 8 hours off. Plants don't need darkness periods for growth, but the 8-hour dark cycle mimics natural day/night and prevents light stress. A completely dark room is fine—the plants won't know the difference.
Low Light Apartment Setup Tips
- Place garden away from cold drafts (windows, AC vents) – plants grow best at 65-75°F
- Ensure light panel is 2-4 inches above plant tops (closer is better)
- Rotate garden 180° every 2 weeks for even growth (if light panel isn't centered)
- Clean light panel monthly (dust blocks light)
- Use reflective surface underneath (white table or foil) to bounce light up to lower leaves
Which Plants Grow Best in Low Light Conditions?
High success (fast growth, compact):
- Basil (prune to keep under 10 inches)
- Lettuce (all varieties – grows well even at 150 PPFD)
- Arugula
- Mint (extremely forgiving)
- Green onions (cut and come again)
Medium success (needs more light, but possible):
- Cilantro (bolts quickly under low light)
- Parsley (slow growth)
- Chives
- Strawberries (needs high light for sweet fruit)
Low success (not recommended for low-light rooms):
- Cherry tomatoes (requires 400+ PPFD)
- Peppers (requires 400+ PPFD)
- Basil that grows above 12 inches (lower leaves yellow)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a grow light bulb in a regular lamp instead?
Yes, but you lose the automated timer and water reservoir. A DIY setup works but requires daily attention. Smart gardens are more convenient.
My apartment light is purple and ugly. Any alternatives?
Click & Grow's white LED is much more attractive than AeroGarden's purple-pink. It blends into kitchen decor.
How much electricity does a smart garden use?
20-50 watts. Running 16 hours/day = 0.32-0.8 kWh/day. At $0.15/kWh, that's $1.50-3.50 per month. Negligible.
Will the light disturb my sleep?
If placed in a bedroom, yes. The light is bright. Set timer so lights turn off 1 hour before bedtime. Or move garden to living room/kitchen.
Final Verdict
The best indoor garden for low light apartments is the Click & Grow Smart Garden 9 for herb lovers. Its white light is apartment-friendly, and the Smart Soil eliminates maintenance. For tomato/pepper growers, upgrade to AeroGarden Bounty for adjustable height. Either way, you don't need a sunny window—just an outlet.
Read the full Click & Grow review →
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