Texas weather can make growing outside feel like a full-time job, so it’s no surprise that a lot of people bring herbs and greens indoors. The problem is that one popular indoor gardening setup looks sleek on a counter, promises “instant” harvests, and quietly drains your wallet with upgrades and refills that never seem to end. You don’t need a gadget to grow basil, lettuce, or starter seedlings indoors. You need the right light, a simple routine, and a setup you can reuse for years. Here’s what experts dislike about the trendy option—and how to replace it with something cheaper that grows better.
