Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelve Review
This post follows our research editorial guidelines.
I’m always on the lookout for new tools that can help improve the way I grow. Over the past few weeks I’ve been testing the new grow shelves made by Spider Farmer. This brand is already well known and loved by many in the hydroponic space for their quality driven approach to creating grow lights. So, I knew their approach to garden shelving (something I desperately needed) would be a game changer to the way I grow. So, let’s take a look at the Spider Farmer SF600 Grow shelves and how they can 3x your seedling capacity before spring starts.
Before we get started I’d like to cover my editorial process here and how I came to my conclusion. I think it’s important to be transparent with every product review. I make sure that each point given has a clear meaning associated which then build up to the final grade either recommending a BUY or a PASS.
I reviewed Spider Farmer SF600 Grow shelve based on the following criteria:
- Quality of construction and durability
- Ease of use
- Durability
- Practicality
Quality 9/10
Ease of Use 8/10
Durability 9/10
Practicality 10/10
Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelve
9/10
The Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelve is perfect for any gardner looking to get a jump on the growing season or extend it beyond the cold season snaps.
Key Features :Quality of construction and durability:
This scored a 9 out of 10 for me. The solid iron construction was well made and the brackets fit easily into position with very little re-positioning. There were a few times when I couldn’t quite get the screws to line up on the first try but with a little jiggle that problem quickly faded. The grow trays that are included are made from a high-quality plastic that will stand the test of time.
Here’s what you get in the box:
- 3 x SF600 LED grow lights with anchors
- 3-tier grow shelf
- 3 water-tight trays
- 4 adjustable wheels
Ease of use:
Overall the shelves were easy to set up. I had everything put together within 30 min or so. The only complaint I had here which dropped the score from a 10 to a 8 was the set up of the lights. While the anchors that were included appear durable, getting them to the highest position took a bit back and forth on the pully system. When your setting them up for the first time be sure to give yourself bit of slack (2-3 inches) otherwise the light will be pulled more to one side. I also would have appreciated a dimming option on the lights or an off switch as opposed to having to unplug the lights I no longer want in use.
Durability:
By far this is the most durable grow shell I’ve ever used scoring a 9 out 10. I can confidently say this construction will last many years if not decades. When you’re thinking about the price of this grow shelf be sure to factor in how much mileage you will be getting out of this durable iron construction. The shelves are built to last and can each hold up to 50 pounds so you don’t have to worry about overloading the frames with plants that are weighed down with water cycles. If it fits on the shelf it will hold!
Practicality:
By far the biggest benefit of purchasing the Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelve is it’s practicality. This growing season I was able to grow 84 potted 4inch plants! Not only did I have the space to grow all of these seedlings in the depths of winter, they were all growing under the perfect lighting conditions. Spiderfarm is known for their quality lights, pair thi with the durability of their grow shelf and you have a recipe for success. Whether your looking to get a jump on the growing season or want to start a microgreens business these shelves will set you up for success.
Now that you have a sense of what’s included and how I’m scoring this review I’m going to cover the benefits of adding this equipment to your garden setup. Because there are many!
Increased production:
For me, this was the main reason why I wanted to upgrade my setup and get a grow shelf. In the past I’ve rigged together wooden shelves each with their own set of lights. The result was a rickety shelf that lacked stability in a size that wasn’t big enough to accommodate what I was growing. Either the shelf had too little room for grow trays or not enough height for my tomatoes or peppers. So, I’m left with a makeshift shelf and some old Tupperware to keep my plants from leaking down on the lights below. – Not ideal.
The Spider Farmer grow shelves took all this into consideration boasting a sturdy iron frame, adjustable height grow lights and durable plant trays that are meant to hold and disperse water without the fear of cracks or leaks. While I appreciate this thoughtful design I still opted to use my own plastic trays so I could bottom water my plants without getting the shelf dirty. The size of the shelf was perfect for adding in 2 additional trays on each level that I could easily pull out when it was time to plant.
Performance and Functionality
The SF600 LED grow lights are a standout feature. They offer a full light spectrum with adjustable intensity, perfect for all stages of plant growth. These lights are highly efficient, consuming minimal energy while providing maximum output.
The grow shelf itself is versatile and can accommodate various types of plants, from seedlings to more mature herbs and vegetables. The water-tight trays prevent any water leakage, maintaining a clean and efficient growing environment.
Mobility and Flexibility
One of the major advantages of the Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelf is its mobility. The four removable wheels that lock allow you to easily move and reposition the shelf as needed. This flexibility is particularly useful for adjusting the shelf to optimal lighting conditions or simply reorganizing your growing space.
Water Management
One of the first things I noticed and appreciated about the Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelf was the design of the water-tight trays. Unlike my old setup, where I constantly worried about water leaking and damaging the floors or other plants, these trays are completely leak-proof. This design not only keeps my growing area tidy but also ensures that the plants above aren’t affected by water overflow from the plants below. The peace of mind this offers is invaluable, as I no longer have to deal with makeshift solutions to contain spills.
Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is always a concern, especially when running grow lights for extended periods. The SF600 LED grow lights are impressively energy-efficient, providing the necessary light spectrum for my plants without a significant increase in my electricity bill. This efficiency means I can keep my plants under optimal light conditions throughout their growth cycle without worrying about excessive energy use. It’s a win-win for both my plants and my wallet.
Year-Round Gardening
One of the main reasons I decided to try this grow shelf was to extend my gardening season. With the Spider Farmer SF600, I can grow my favorite herbs, vegetables, and flowers all year round, regardless of the weather outside. This capability has been a game-changer, allowing me to enjoy fresh produce even in the depths of winter. The controlled environment provided by the grow shelf ensures that my plants get the right amount of light, heat, and humidity, creating perfect growing conditions year-round.
Flexibility and Mobility
The four removable wheels on the SF600 Grow Shelf add a level of flexibility that I didn’t realize I needed until I had it. Being able to easily move and reposition the shelf means I can quickly adjust the setup to catch the best natural light for when I want the lights off or to make space for other activities. This mobility is particularly useful during cleaning or when reorganizing my growing area. The ability to move the shelf effortlessly is a huge plus, especially when dealing with a full load of plants.
Improved Plant Health
The controlled environment provided by the grow shelf, along with the high-quality SF600 LED lights, has noticeably improved the health and growth rate of my plants. The adjustable light spectrum and intensity cater to the specific needs of different plants at various growth stages. This tailored lighting, combined with the stable and secure design of the shelf, creates an ideal growing environment. My plants are healthier, stronger, and more productive than they ever were with my old setup.
Space Optimization
Space is always at a premium, especially in an indoor garden. The vertical design of the Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelf allows me to make the most of the available space. Instead of spreading out trays and pots across tables and floors, I can stack them neatly, creating a compact and efficient growing area. This organization not only looks better but also makes it easier to manage and care for my plants. It’s an efficient use of space that has transformed my indoor gardening experience.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelf is a solid investment for any gardener looking to optimize their indoor growing space. The quality of construction and durability are top-notch, and the practical design makes it a valuable addition to any setup. While the ease of use could be improved slightly, the benefits far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
Based on my review, I confidently recommend a BUY for the Spider Farmer SF600 Grow Shelf. It’s a game-changer that can help you take your gardening to the next level.
If you have any questions about this grow shelf feel free to leave a comment below or email me at brock@biggergarden.com. I’d be happy to answer them for you. 🙂
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