FAQ’s

The microgreen revolution is here, and it’s changing the way we think about farming and nutrition. With the help of hydroponic systems like Aquatree, we can now grow microgreens faster, stronger, and more sustainably than ever before. Not only are these greens delicious and versatile, but they’re also packed with essential nutrients that can help boost our immune system, improve digestion, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. In fact, microgreens contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their fully grown counterparts, making them the ultimate superfood. With Aquatree, you can experience the ultimate hydroponic microgreen experience, growing a wide variety of greens with precision and efficiency. So, join the microgreen revolution today and discover the many health benefits of these tiny but mighty greens!

The Aquatree™ is currently available with free shipping in the US only!  Shipping cost for seeds and replacement mats still apply.

Yes, we try to minimize packaging as much as possible and are committed to improving the environmental impact of our packaging while maintaining functionality and value. Where applicable, all packaging is dated and labeled according to USDA regulations and for tracing and tracking purposes. All of our packaging is subject to random spot checks throughout the fulfillment process. The quality control checks look for specified weights being met, condition of items, along with folding edges being sealed properly, and a general overall check to be sure packaging is suitable for shipment to you. Records of all quality control checks are kept for and archived for traceability.

/Wash, rinse, and repeat! It’s that simple. If you find you need more seeds, would like to order modular expansion parts, or companion parts, please visit our AquaTree® marketplace at www.aquatree.eco/buy.

Each AquaTree® will come with two packs of seeds, Organic Mung Beans and Organic Broccoli Sprout Seeds, and a Quick Start Guide that contains information for best crop results.

We are continually adding new varieties to our online marketplace. For the most up to date options, please visit the Grow Local® website at www.growlocal.eco.

Not only are our seed varieties curated and optimised specifically for the Aquatree®; all of our seeds are also untreated, fresh crop, non-GMO, heirloom varieties. Many of our seeds, as noted in their descriptions, are also Organic! Due to the rigorous testing and screening they endure to ensure they meet our exacting standards, they are the highest quality seeds you can purchase.

Yes! Our seeds are supplied by USDA-compliant seed harvesters who are licensed in all 50 states. All seeds are lab tested, with accompanying documentation, to ensure they meet or exceed federal germination standards. We partner with third-party companies to send the seed out for additional lab spot-testing on a regular basis.

The Council for Responsible Genetic says the pledge is as follows: “Agriculture and seeds provide the basis upon which our lives depend. We must protect this foundation as a safe and genetically stable source for future generations. For the benefit of all farmers, gardeners and consumers who want an alternative, we pledge that we do not knowingly buy, sell or trade genetically engineered seeds or plants.

The mechanical transfer of genetic material outside of natural reproductive methods and between genera, families or kingdoms, poses great biological risks as well as economic, political, and cultural threats. We feel that genetically engineered varieties have been insufficiently tested prior to public release. More research and testing is necessary to further assess the potential risks of genetically engineered seeds. Further, we wish to support agricultural progress that leads to healthier soils, genetically diverse agricultural ecosystems and ultimately healthy people and communities.”

We require our seed partners to conduct regular in-house germination testing as an additional quality control measure.

The Aquatree® is capable of growing a wide variety of produce, primarily sprouts and microgreens. Those with large seeds like Wheatgrass and Mung Beans are grown without a seed mat. You can use our patented seed mat, the MauMat®, to grow all types of sprouts and microgreens including Kale & Broccoli.

protein

The AquaTree includes a uniquely developed grow light that should be used to grow both leafy green and microgreens.  For optimal results with microgreens such as Broccoli or Clover, we recommend using the grow lights starting on day 3 after planting the seeds for about 8 hours per day.  For leafy green product, begin using the light immediately  from about 12 hours per day. For protein beans such as Mung Beans, the grow light is not required.

If you’re a beginner, we do recommend you allow your pump to run continuously. Advanced users can run their pump on a cycle provided they maintain the recommended water level in the AquaTree® and the roots on crops stay damp to remain healthy.

The Aquatree® utilizes a highly efficient pump and light design. If you run it 24/7 at the national average for electricity cost (.12/kwh), it will cost around $2 per month.

Yes, keep an eye out on our marketplace for options.

Yes! The modular nature of the AquaTree® allows up to 3 levels (15 Trays) for maximum production. Additional levels will be available on the Grow Local® marketplace and are 100% compatible with your current unit.

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” (Paul Drucker) We’d like to acknowledge the expertise provided from the following market leaders: AEG, Genisis Global, April Aire, Anden, Bentley Seed, PDQ, 100 Gardens, Dry Steam, Mix Group, gMax, gCreate, Heal Charlotte, THS National, Excelsior Solutions, QC Marketing, Haven Creative, Interapt, PolyOne, More Van Allen, Sunny Creek Farm and more…

The Aquatree should be cleaned after every harvest and it is as simple as disassembling the Aquatree and placing all of the non-electrical parts in the dishwasher.  You can clean the pump with dish soap and warm water.    If there is build up in hard to reach places, use the bristle brush supplied with your Aquatree and some warm soapy, water to scrub that area. Before using the Aquatree again, make sure all parts are well rinsed and dried.  Back to New!

The answer depends on how much space you have and how much you want to grow!  One level can grow 25 head of lettuce every 5 weeks or 120 oz of microgreens.

Although the noise level can be compared to an indoor counterop fountain and many people find it soothing, not everyone does. The noise volume depends on how full your water tank is. If you find the AquaTree® is a little too noisy when your water tank is filled to the fill line, simply add more water to the tank until it’s at an optimal sound level for you.

Just like your car, this depends on how well you take care of it and the environmental conditions the unit is subject to. One of our units has been running continuously for nearly 5 years now. This said, the pump life is rated at 20,000 hours and the lighting system is rated at 25,000 hours.

No. While the system is meant to contain and manage water, electrical components, such as the power cord, should not be subject to water exposure. The pump is meant to go in water, but all other electronic components should remain dry.

1-year Warranty

The components of the Aquatree are made with a Zylar Resin that is a non-leaching plastic and approved to be used inside the human body.  The Aquatree® parts are dishwasher safe.

Yes! We have a product roadmap that we are constantly adding features to and welcome your input as we plan to continually evolve our products.

The commercial system is a quoted item. The price is based on multiple factors including how many units will be purchased, the capacity in which they will be used, and the crops you will be growing.

Through 8+ years of use, we’ve never had a problem with fruit flies. We recommend making sure the environment that the Aquatree® is used in is free of fruit flies. However, if fruit flies do become an issue: 1) remove the source of the flies, typically they hatch from store purchased fruit or vegetables and 2) clean your AquaTree® Trays to remove any eggs that may have been laid. If you need additional help, feel free to reach out to us at Info@GrowLocal.eco.

Foaming is a natural occurance and nothing to be alarmed about. To remedy this, simply add a couple of drops of olive oil to your tank water and the foam will disappear within minutes.

The sound you are hearing is water falling from the lowest level spout in your AquaTree into the tank. Although the noise level can be compared to an indoor countertop fountain and many people find it soothing, not everyone does. The noise volume depends on how full your water tank is. If you find the AquaTree® is a little too noisy when your water tank is filled to the fill line, simply add more water to the tank until it’s at an optimal sound level for you.

tWe recommend harvesting microgreens using a knife to but the roots off the bottom of the reusable Micro Lid.  The just pull the microgreens from the top side and you are ready to eat.  To harvest any type of bean, turn your Aquatree off for 15 minutes to allow the water to drain from the trays. Once the water has drained, pour your sprouts into a strainer and gently rinse them, then either eat them right away or store them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.

For optimal results when growing micro greens, we recommend using the grow lights starting on day 4 for about 8 hours per days until harvest. For crops like mung bean sprouts the grow lights are not necessary.

The extension is only needed when using the grow lights. The extension allows the light to be optimally positioned to keep maximum light intensity on the growing produce.

If at any time you feel you would like to change the water, you may do so. There are several ways to replace the water. First, make sure to turn off the pump and allow all the water in the system to drain back to the tank. Then you can either: 1) remove the tank and replace the water or 2) siphon the water into a bucket and then pour fresh water back into the tank.