Product relaunch: The new version of our mini gardens
In 2016, we developed our version of a growing kit: the mini garden. Our goal was to create a growing kit that would be a pleasure to give as a gift and that the recipient could start growing right away. It was important to us that the product be attractively designed, include simple instructions, and include soil and seeds.
In mid-2023, the time had come to redesign the mini garden. The goals from 2016 remained the same, but we wanted to revise the design and adapt it to the times, as well as make it even more sustainable. Below, you'll find out what we've changed in detail:
Earthbag
Previously
Mainly because of concerns about mold in the soil and because we didn't want water to leak out of the bag, we opted for an aluminum composite foil bag (remember the word for Scrabble 😬) with a film thickness of 117 micrometers (micrometers) in 2016. The exact composition was: 50 micrometer kraft paper, 50 micrometer aluminum, 7 micrometer aluminum, and 60 micrometer CPP .
Afterward
For the new mini garden we use an aluminum-free and 100% environmentally friendly 70 g/ m² paper bag. The ÖKO-Line bag from Ströbel is made of kraft paper combined with recyclable PE-EVOH-PE.
banderol
Previously
Previously, the banderole of the mini garden was made of 280 g/ m² FSC-certified chromo board GC1.
Afterward
The new band is made from the tree-free upcycled paper "Earth Pact®." It is made from 100% bagasse, a byproduct of sugar production. First, the sweet juice is pressed in the sugar mill, then the remaining fibers are recycled into cardboard.
germ protection bag
Previously
To best preserve the germination capacity of the seeds, they are sealed in a germination protection bag. In the past, we used a bag made of 40 g/m² paper coated with a polyethylene layer and a 6.35 µm aluminum foil layer inside.
Afterward
For the new version, we use a bag made of 80% kraft paper and 20% tomato plant fiber. The tomato plants required for this are not cultivated specifically, but are a byproduct of tomato cultivation. After the tomato harvest, the plants are used in a sustainable process for paper production.
seeds
Previously
In our old Saatgeschwister range, we offered 55 different varieties of seeds, 13 of which (24%) were organic.
Afterward
At the end of 2024, we will completely redesign our product range. There will only be 14 mini gardens and 21 varieties of individually packaged seeds, but 11 seed sets. In total, we will offer 90 We offer a variety of seed varieties, 70 (78%) of which are organic. All seeds are seed-stable; there are no hybrids in our range.
Construction
Previously
The first version of our mini garden growing kit consisted of the soil bag, a wooden bed marker, a banderol, and a cross-shaped packaging in which the germination protection bag was packed.
Afterward
The new version features a flap integrated directly into the sleeve, into which the germination protection bag is inserted. Planting instructions are also located on the inside of this flap. This saves approximately 15% paper per product and two adhesive dots for attaching the seeds. Furthermore, the seeds can no longer fall off.
Design
Previously
The banderole had previously had a traditional-nostalgic, A slightly playful and detailed country-house style with a delicate green floral pattern as a frame. The plants on the packaging were almost photorealistic.
Afterward
The new design is more modern and somewhat more playful. The label now features a colored border with a floral pattern. The variety name is larger and clearer, improving readability. All plants are now drawn.
New mini garden: Summary
So you see: We put a lot of thought and planning into the design and packaging of our new mini gardens. The packaging is now even more sustainable, and the organic portion of our varieties has increased. We hope you enjoyed our little insight!
