Step-by-step setup with the Click & Grow Flowerpot (pictures)

From start to finish, installing the Smart Flowerpot couldn't be easier.

Katie Pilkington

Oct. 15, 2013 1:38 p.m. PT

Hands-on with the Click & Grow Smart Flowerpot

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Hands-on with the Click & Grow Smart Flowerpot

Honestly, the most difficult part about preparing the Click & Grow Smart Flowerpot was removing the shrink-wrap from the box. Ready to grow some chili peppers?

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You'll find easy to understand directions and product information wrapped around the flowerpot.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

First, remove the sticker from the top of the Smart Flowerpot.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Remove the two plates.

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The red-lidded container houses the batteries which power the sensor and water pump. Pull up on the red lid to install batteries.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

The Smart Flowerpot requires four AA batteries. Once you've installed them, the light on the front of the flowerpot will turn blue and start blinking.

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When the light turns on blue and blinks, the Smart Flowerpot is ready for water.

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Pour water into the reservoir until the water line matches the indicated mark. Don't pour water into the plant cartridge area in the center.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Replace the plates and press down to secure them. Place the plastic germination lens over the plant cartridge in the center and leave it until you see sprouts.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

If you are planting in winter or plan to keep the Smart Flowerpot in an area with low light, you may need to purchase the $49 grow light.

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Fish the cord through the light stand and plug the cable into the port on the top of the light.

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Place the grow light against the Smart Flowerpot and plug in.

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Colin West McDonald/CNET

Voila! Click & Grow says that you can expect sprouts in two to three weeks, and a full-sized plant in two to four months. Plenty of time to look up recipes calling for chili peppers.