Did IKEA Fail or Succeed with Their Home Hydroponics System

In 2016, IKEA ventured into the world of home hydroponics with the launch of its VÄXER hydroponic growing system. For a company known for flat-pack furniture and minimalist home design, this was a bold move. But nearly a decade later, we ask: Was IKEA’s hydroponics project a failure, or an underrated success?

Let’s explore what made the system innovative, why it faded from shelves, and why many growers (myself included) still miss it.

What Was IKEA’s Hydroponic System?

IKEA’s hydroponic range included:

• Plastic grow trays with rockwool plug inserts
• A thoughtfully designed irrigation spout
• Optional LED grow lights, propagation lids, and stylish containers
• A proprietary fertilizer (though quality unknown)

The system was designed for urban gardeners and beginners. It allowed people to grow herbs like basil and pak choi on a windowsill or even on a BILLY bookcase.

Why It Was Brilliant (Especially for the Price)

IKEA priced the units incredibly low—likely as a loss leader. I personally bought over 100 units at a few pounds each to use in formulation experiments, nutrient deficiency trials, and even custom ebb-and-flow hydroponic systems.

💡 Fun fact: I’m still using some of these trays 9 years later—they’re more durable than many products sold today online.

Other highlights included:

• High-quality baskets that outclass today’s budget options
• Seedling caps to reduce algae growth during germination
• Compact, modular design perfect for indoor experimentation

Where It Fell Short

Despite its quality, the system had a few issues:

• The fertiliser included may have been its weakest link—common among entry-level kits
• The LED lights and accessories were expensive compared to the base units
• No support for more advanced setups like dual-part A/B nutrients or pH control

Still, these limitations were understandable given the beginner focus. It was a great “gateway” into hydroponics.

Was It a Failure?

Not at all.

IKEA’s goal likely wasn’t to dominate the hydroponics market—it was to drive foot traffic and increase cart sizes. Shoppers who came in for a hydroponic kit left with lights, containers, maybe even a kitchen island. Classic IKEA.

Even if it’s no longer available, the VÄXER system:

• Introduced thousands to hydroponic growing
• Boosted IKEA’s green and tech-savvy image
• Left a lasting impression on home growers worldwide

In fact, the amateur hydroponics sector may have taken a step backward since IKEA left the space.

What Could Have Made It Better?

If IKEA had partnered with Liquid Gold Fertilizer—a true one-part, seed-to-harvest solution—their kit could have been even more successful. Unlike multi-part systems, Liquid Gold is simple enough for beginners and effective enough for pros.

Hydroponic beginners don’t want to juggle pH up, pH down, and separate nutrient bottles. A single bottle solution would’ve been the perfect fit.

Bonus: Remember the IKEA Bicycle?

In the same era, IKEA launched a one-size-fits-all bike with a belt drive and automatic gearing. It was promising, but flawed. After a few accidents and a full recall, IKEA refunded all buyers—including me—after I’d already ridden it into the ground.

Just like the VÄXER system, it was a bold experiment that offered value and innovation, even if short-lived.

Conclusion: Bring Back the VÄXER System!

IKEA’s hydroponic system wasn’t a failure—it was ahead of its time. With indoor gardening on the rise again, a relaunch could inspire a whole new wave of urban growers.

If you still own a VÄXER unit, drop us a message or leave a comment. Share how you used it and any tips you have. We’d love to hear your story.

Article by Dr Russell Sharp

If you would like to keep up to date with subjects just like this, you can listen to both our podcasts! Links can be found bellow:

Hydroponics Daily Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/207T7p7fw9sPjINfSjVXW2

Cereal Killers Podcast: https://t.co/eSEbBkTVHl