Boum Core: more affordable, but still expensive
30.6.2026
Translation: Elicia Payne
Pictures: Darina Schweizer
The Galaxus Community wanted a more affordable Boum irrigation system – and now it’s here. With Boum Core, you’ll save around a third of the price, but you’ll have to settle for lower-quality materials.
«Why does it have to be so expensive?!» «For that price, you could buy a thousand times as many plants at the supermarket.» The Galaxus Community’s feedback was loud and clear when I tested the self-watering pots from the Boum Pro Starter Set: too expensive, way too expensive.
Now, the Bern University spin-off has released a more affordable version of its irrigation system: the Boum Core. Instead of a single 15-litre pot, it consists of two 13-litre pots made of a less expensive material. The water tank holds 32 litres instead of 35, so it appears slightly smaller. In terms of price difference, the Core costs 230 francs whereas the Pro Starter Set’s 340 francs. Read on for a more detailed review.
You can see the compromises, but the result’s the same
The first thing that caught my eye is the new material. The UV- and frost-resistant Boum-Core pots in grey aren’t only lighter in colour but also slightly thinner. Plus, the edges are more rounded. In my opinion, this makes the Boum Core less elegant and strangely also bulkier.
As I assembled the set, I had a lot of déjà vu moments. Everything’s the same: from the black wick holders I screwed into the holes in the bottom of the pot, to the white wicks I inserted for drawing water up to the plants.
I also had to attach the white float valve – which monitors the water level – and the black T-fitting to the water reservoir under the pot again. The system supplies water through the connected (admittedly somewhat noticeable) hoses as soon as the water level gets too low. Just like the other system, you can monitor everything using the Boum app. And if something breaks, you can reorder and replace all the parts. Boum has its own repair service that fixes systems.
Tested on thirsty herbs
This is where things got really exciting. So far, the only plants I’ve potted in the Boum pots on my sunny balcony are ones that don’t need much water: an olive tree and Mediterranean herbs. That’s why I was keen to find out if the advertising claims are true and if even the biggest guzzlers among herbs can survive.
In one pot, I planted basil, which needs constant watering, and in the other – brace yourself – chives and parsley. I later came to realise the latter two don’t actually get along at all, even though they have similar needs (link in German). Anyway, they’re still growing peacefully side by side (so far) in my Boum pots.
The gap closes
I had another issue that was more problematic: the solar-powered control unit didn’t sit flush with the new water tank. With the more expensive Boum set, the two pieces fit together with millimetre precision. However, as explained by the founder and CEO Ludwig Auer, the lid can be positioned correctly with a slight adjustment. I gave it a go. And lo and behold: after turning it two or three times, the gap actually closed.
Overall, I’m pretty happy with the product. The less expensive Boum system works just as well as the more expensive one. Unlike Gardena and other brands, it provides plants with the right amount of water. After three weeks, the basil has really flourished. My colleague Simon’s trick of separating the tightly packed basil stems and planting them separately has paid off.
Premium is still premium
Still, it all comes down to the price. One hundred francs less for fewer features while offering the same functionality is certainly a step in the right direction. But, the system still isn’t exactly affordable. It might come as a bit of a surprise but sophisticated wick irrigation, solar power, interchangeable components, and the support of a Swiss university spin-off all come at a price.
Anyone who appreciates this will have to dig a little deeper into their pockets – for both the Boum Core or the Boum Pro Starter Set. That’s why I’d be more inclined to choose the latter: it looks better and has a more accurate finish. If price is your top priority, you’re better off staying away from Boum entirely. But don’t be surprised if you’re faced with wilting basil. After all, that’ll also cost your nerves.
Would you buy a Boum Core? Let me know in the comments.
In a nutshell
The budget version’s still expensive
Boum Core waters plants just as reliably as the more expensive Boum Pro Starter Kit. The wick irrigation system and the app work perfectly. Even thirsty herbs like basil thrive on it. Whether the price difference is worth it depends on how much you value a durable, sophisticated Swiss irrigation system with replaceable parts. If that’s not your top priority, you can also find affordable solutions from other suppliers. But if it is, Boum Core could be just the right one for you. Personally, I’d be willing to spend 100 francs more on the Boum Pro Starter Set because of its more appealing design and build quality.
Pro
- Reliable, needs-based watering, even for thirsty herbs
- Saves water and energy
- User-friendly app
- Replaceable parts and repair service
- Secure sealing
Contra
- The setup’s a little easier than with the Boum Pro starter kit
- Tubes aren’t aesthetically pleasing
Darina Schweizer
Senior Editor
Darina.Schweizer@digitecgalaxus.chI love everything with four legs or roots – especially my rescue cats Jasper and Joy and my collection of succulents. I’m happiest following the scent of stories about police dogs and cat groomers – or cultivating thoughtful tales in garden flea markets and Japanese gardens.
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