A Kickstarter Windowsill Planter That Waters Itself

I want to say one word to you. Just one word. Are you listening? Hydroponics.

With apologies to The Graduate, these days the future looks just as bright for hydroponics as it ever did for “plastics.” And I’m not the only one who feels that way. A new windowsill planter with a built-in system to automatically water and feed your plants has already raised more than $23,000 from more than 225 backers in a Kickstarter campaign:

Above: The Modern Sprout Hydroponic Planter creates a soil-free environment where herbs can thrive on a windowsill. With a goal of raising $60,000 to bankroll production, creator Sarah Burrows has created a windowsill planter kit with a hidden air pump with a programmable timer to regulate release of water.

Above: The planter is available in four finishes including chalkboard, rustic gray weathered pine, high-gloss white and reclaimed wood.

Above: What’s so great about hydroponics? In addition to making it possible to grow plants in places where soil is not available. hydroponics is good for the environment. Water can be reused and it is easier to administer controlled doses of plant food, producing higher yields. The Modern Sprout kit comes with a reusable clay pellet growing medium and a starter supply of organic liquid fertilizer.

For more about hydroponics, see An Agricultural Experiment in the Heart of London and Chef’s Secret Garden: Playa in West Hollywood.