I know a bunch of people would disagree with saying that an AeroGarden is a good way to go for beginners. And I DO think that there is a lot of extra you have to put into it to get the AG to be a good set-up, but I think it's a good way for someone to at least look at and get a better idea of how Hydro works, even if it's just for growing vegetables or flowers. I think a person who has some skill and a good set of power tools, etc. could probably make a pretty good knockoff with it being an improved set-up for a lot cheaper. On the other hand, I think the nutrients that the AG provides for the tomatoe kit makes the whole thing a lot easier for a first time grower. So I think that there is a toss-up. So I guess I didn't answer the question, but I think I gave some feedback, even if nobody finds it useful.