I first discovered the Prepara version of a hydroponic gardening system last year. Today I saw the Power Plant 'Pro' on HSN (Home Shopping Network) for a special price of $99. Once the introductory period is over, the regular price should go to approximately $120. The package includes the Power Plant 'Pro' and a grow light (which normally is a separate purchase).
If the Aerogarden is not the system for you, then Prepara is a good alternative. Due to the size I don't think you can grow your plants to the size of an Aerogarden but they addressed one of the big complaints gardeners had about the Aerogarden when it first came out from the outset. Although they give you seeds, the seeds aren't aready in seed kits, meaning that you can choose to grow whatever seed you want. The Aerogarden now lets you purchase empty seed kits that you can use to grow your own seeds.
When I first discovered the Prepara products I was most interested in the Power Plant 'Mini' because of a demonstration I saw on their blog with sprouts. I have since decided that it wouldn't work for the amount of sprouts that I want to grow but it is another option to keep in mind.
