Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit - Cocktail Inspired - Mint and Basil - 2 Self-Watering Herb Kits

I bought this for my husband for Christmas. The mint never grew, and now it's all just covered in mold. The basil is growing though, so there's that. I reached out to Modern Sprout today and they replied within several hours - the email below is lengthy but I'm very impressed with the detail of this reply and the offer to send me replacement seeds/parts!Modern Sprout's reply:Hi!Thank you so much for reaching out to Modern Sprout! I’m so sorry to hear about the mint not sprouting and the mold growth. First and foremost, the type of mold associated with plant growth (white mold, which is a fungus) is generally harmless to humans and animals, but can stifle plant growth. Here are the primary reasons why mold develops, and what you can do to get rid of it or prevent it:Overwatering: The hydroponic growing mediums used in this kit requires much less water than soil-based gardening. We notice that seasoned gardeners tend to overwater this kit for that reason. During the seed sprouting stage, the coco pith just needs to be barely damp (medium brown in color). Using a mister will help you manage moisture. If mold develops on the coco pith with established plants, there may be too much water in the reservoir (water level should not touch the net pot). To dry out the growing medium you can empty out the reservoir for a short period of time or add a fan to increase ventilation with a fan.Poor Ventilation: For both seed sprouting and established plants, it’s important they are in a well-ventilated location with consistent air-flow. Open a window or position a fan in close proximity to the planter. You can also stick the planter outside for a few days if daytime temps are 70 degrees or above, just pull the planter in at night or if it rains.Warmth: The success of this planter is dependent on quality light and warmth. Ideally the location should be in the 70’s. Plants will shutdown growth to protect themselves if temps drop below 55 degrees or above 85 degrees. If supplementing with a grow light place it as close to the plants as possible. Some grow lights generate high levels of heat and can cause your plants to get too warm or burn them - use a fan or some type of ventilation to prevent damage to your plants.Getting Rid Of Existing Mold: Mold can go away! Using the steps listed above, you can correct your growing environment to effectively kill the mold. If you’d like to take additional steps, you can also physically remove the mold -- this is only recommended for established plants and sprouts are too fragile. You can also sprinkle a little cinnamon on the coco pith, which acts as a natural anti-fungicide.Also, It’s important that you use the included activated carbon packet, as it helps with moisture management and conditions the coco. If you didn’t, sprinkle it on the coco now!As for the mint, it can be a little trickier to germinate... here are a few tips to keep on mind for next time! Mint is a little more sensitive to temp and sunlight (it needs a lot to sprout and grow) then the rest of our herb kits...but once it gets established it won't stop :) Please note mint seeds do need direct sunlight to germinate -- with the replacements, just carefully sprinkle them on top of the coco pith. Per the instructions, it really needs to be 55 degrees outside and the jars need to receive 6 hours of direct sun daily. This is especially crucial for the seed starting phase. Once you have established plants they will survive the winter but just go a bit dormant. I would suggest waiting until April or May to plant again! If you have a spray bottle, give them a little water spray daily too!Sorry for the lengthy email! We just want to be sure you have everything you need to have a successful growing experience. :) We would be happy to send you replacement seeds, a coco pith, and activated carbon so that you are able to try again! The grow medium is reusable if you just give it a good rinse. If you could please send over your preferred ship to address, we can get your replacement components in the mail in the next 5-7 days!Warmly,Becca

These are fun! The jars are pretty and the growing plants look great on my kitchen window sill. I really only wanted the mint plant so I can infuse in my carry-with-me-everywhere-water bottle, but opted for this 2-pk since the price seemed fair. I still have no idea what I'll do with the basil, but I'll figure something out!I'm in a far northern climate and seeded them in March. The basil sprouted first within a few days and grew very quickly. I was worried the mint wasn't taking, but then all the sudden it sprouted and then grew up too. A couple months later both plants are fully grown (and keep growing). I keep them in a sunny window sill and they drink up their water in a hurry...need to refill the jars every 2-3 days.

I love the idea of growing herbs inside! Putting the jars together was fun and easy as long as you followed the directions step by step. My basil has started to sprout but the mint hasn't done anything! My fingers are crossed that this product isn't a bust. Do you sell refill packs for the mint? I may try to transplant some mint already growing outside into the jar to see if it will continue to grow.

My basil barely sprouted but hardly took root and started growing mold!!The mint hasn't come to any sprout at all and it's been weeks...The cilantro (not included in this kit) worked great!!!I don't know if this method just isn't good for basil and mint or if I got a lemon set...?

purchase for gifts.

The basil has sprouted, the mint hasn't yet. I'm guessing mint takes longer to germinate. Or perhaps because it's winter and it's next to the window I killed it with the cold. That's okay, I like basil better than mint.

So I love the idea and everything is super cute but my mint never grew :-( I tried to contact the seller but they never responded... Not ideal customer service I would recommend going a different route.

arrived on time. This was a gift and the recipient is enjoying this unique gift.