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Modern Sprout, a Chicago-based retailer, offers a variety of high-design indoor gardening technology and accessories. CNET recently tested several of the company’s products, including its wall-mounted smart planter, to determine their utility for houseplant enthusiasts and their suitability as gifts.
Testing the Smart Landscape Growframe
The Smart Landscape Growframe, priced at $229, is a significant piece of hardware measuring 32.1 inches long, 11.5 inches tall, and 5.3 inches deep. Constructed from durable powder-coated steel, the unit weighs 8 pounds, making secure wall installation essential. The manufacturer recommends mounting the frame into studs using a level and power drill, as drywall anchors are not included. Users must also ensure the 9-foot power cord can reach a nearby electrical outlet.
The device is controlled via a simple mobile app that features preset lighting schedules for shade, partial sun, and full sun. While these presets are not customizable, the app allows for manual scheduling and includes a “Scenario” tab for automation based on weather or device status. Although the app lacks integration with platforms like Home Assistant or Samsung SmartThings, it is designed for ease of use. The unit’s full-spectrum LED grow light provides up to 1,480 lumens, which is sufficient for the seven small pots the frame is designed to hold.
Plant Care Tools and Accessories
Beyond the smart planter, CNET evaluated three additional gardening tools: Pruning Shears ($20), a Glass Watering Can ($48), and Dissolving Plant Food Sheets ($20). The all-metal pruning shears were highlighted for their comfortable design, locking latch, and needle-nose blades, which are effective for trimming in tight spaces.
The glass watering can, while aesthetically pleasing, was noted for its fragility and limited 1-quart capacity, which may be insufficient for larger plant collections. Additionally, its flared rim can make watering the Growframe difficult when the container is nearly empty. The dissolving plant food sheets, however, were praised for their convenience. The sheets are seaweed-based and designed to be torn into segments, with one full sheet treating a gallon of water. While they dissolve slightly slowly, they offer a mess-free alternative to liquid fertilizers.
Value and Recommendations
The products from Modern Sprout are characterized by premium build quality and design, making them suitable for those who prioritize aesthetics in their home gardening setup. The pruning shears were identified as the best value among the items tested, offering a significant upgrade over standard gardening scissors. While the Smart Landscape Growframe is a premium investment, its intuitive app and heavy-duty construction justify the cost for users seeking a simplified smart gardening experience.
The plant food sheets are considered a convenient, albeit slightly more expensive, option compared to traditional liquid fertilizers. Ultimately, the Modern Sprout collection is recommended for individuals with higher budgets or those looking for attractive, high-quality gifts for plant enthusiasts.
