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| LG Electronics' built-in column-type indoor gardening appliance that will be exhibited at CES / Courtesy of LG Electronics |
By Jun Ji-hye
LG Electronics has unveiled a high-tech indoor gardening appliance, making a foray into the booming indoor gardening movement, the company said Thursday.
The Korean tech giant will exhibit the built-in column-type LG indoor gardening appliance in the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the world's largest annual tech event that will take place in Las Vegas in January.
The premium appliance automates most of the vegetable cultivation processes, employing advanced light, temperature and water control, all-in-one seed packages and a growth-monitoring app.
The all-in-one seed packages contain seeds, peat moss and fertilizer for immediate planting, the firm said, noting that initial packages will include 20 different varieties including romaine and other types of lettuce, arugula, chicory and basil.
The new device will enable users around the world to cultivate crisp, fresh herbs and vegetables all year round inside their own homes.
Utilizing flexible modules, the appliance replicates optimal outdoor conditions by precisely matching the temperature inside the insulated cabinet with the time of day.
LED lights, forced air circulation and wick-based water management allow seeds to transform quickly into ingredients.
LG Electronics has applied its cutting-edge technologies and knowhow, which it has accumulated while producing home appliances, to the new product.
For example, it applied the temperature control technology of Dios refrigerators to the indoor gardening appliance so the new device can maintain an optimal temperature for vegetables.
Technology used in Whisen air conditioners helps optimize the flow of air so natural herbs and leafy vegetables can grow healthy.
The company said one of the key components of the automated gardening system is its non-circulating water supply technology, which evenly distributes the exact amount of water that plant packages require.
This technology prevents algae growth and inhibits unpleasant odors for a clean and hygienic environment.
A companion smartphone app helps users manage and monitor their plants, offering useful guidance at each step along the way to ensure a successful harvest every time.
"With more and more consumers these days living vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, it was important for us to contribute to this trend," said Dan Song, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance and Air Solution Company.
"Our first indoor gardening solution represents a new paradigm for LG in home appliances, offering a way for consumers to eat well while providing the joy of growing their own food, consistent with LG's overall goal of making life better."
