Garden Tower 2: 50-Plant Vertical Garden vs The Farmstand

Overview

The Garden Tower Project Garden Tower 2 and the Lettuce Grow Farmstand are two top-tier vertical gardening systems, each scoring an impressive 92/100 on our ethics scale. Both are B Corp certified, but they cater to slightly different gardening styles. The Garden Tower 2 is a soil-based, freestanding tower that supports up to 50 plants (plus a vermicomposting core for natural fertilization). The Farmstand uses hydroponics (water + nutrients) and comes in multiple sizes (12, 24, or 36 plants). Both are priced at $$$$ (premium), making them serious investments for eco-conscious gardeners.

Ethics diff

While both score identically, their ethical focuses differ. The Garden Tower 2 holds Leaping Bunny (cruelty-free) and Non-GMO Project Verified certifications, making it a strong choice for those prioritizing organic, animal-friendly inputs. The Farmstand, however, is Climate Neutral Certified, verifying that its entire carbon footprint is offset. Thus, the Garden Tower 2 leans toward traditional organic soil gardening, while the Farmstand emphasizes carbon accountability. Both are excellent, but your priorities—soil health vs. climate action—will tilt the scale.

Everyday use

The Garden Tower 2 (soil-based) requires filling with potting mix, adding red worms to the central tube, and watering from the top. It’s more hands-on: you’ll need to manage soil moisture and compost. The Farmstand (hydroponic) uses a pump to circulate nutrient-rich water. It requires an initial setup with a growing medium (like clay pebbles) and regular nutrient additions, but less daily watering. The Farmstand is slimmer and better for balconies; the Tower 2 is sturdier for yards. Both yield high productivity, but the Garden Tower 2’s composting core reduces waste, while the Farmstand’s water recirculation saves up to 90% more water than soil gardening.

Value

At the same price tier, value depends on your needs. The Garden Tower 2 includes the vermicomposting system and holds 50 plants—great for families wanting to grow a diverse organic garden. The Farmstand’s smaller 12-plant version is cheaper per plant, but its larger models (24 or 36 plants) cost significantly more. Both save money over grocery produce long-term, but the Garden Tower 2 offers more plants per dollar upfront. Replacement parts (pumps for Farmstand, compost worms for Tower 2) add minor ongoing costs.

Bottom line

This is a tie. Choose the Garden Tower 2 if you love organic soil gardening, want to compost kitchen scraps, and value Leaping Bunny/Non-GMO certifications. Choose the Farmstand if you prefer a water-efficient, nearly soil-less system and prioritize climate neutrality. Both support sustainable, high-yield home food production.