The shipping was free from a third-party seller, and the item was delivered to my front door two days after I ordered it. The night after the day I received it I put some red radish seeds in this apparatus to sprout, and many of them have already sprouted. They are just taking their time because they are radish seeds. A few times a day I am spraying the tops of the seeds with water from a sprayer bottle. The spray water drains down into the basin, and you can empty the basin, change the water to be fresh, and have just a little bit of water sitting in the bottom. This allows evaporation from below to help moisturize the seeds from underneath also. This comes with some instructions, and I covered it loosely with a bag and propped up the side of the bag open with an empty can so that I get good ventilation. The item is a bit small, yet it would fit very nicely and easily in any window sill that I am familiar with. The drainage/root anchoring holes are really pretty small, so you will not have any problem with your seeds falling through them. Honestly, I wish this thing were a lot cheaper, and you probably don't really need it, to be honest. I think you can probably sprout and grow sprouts, microgreens, and baby greens with just some stuff you already have around your home if you are resourceful and imaginative enough. This thing looks nice, yet it is not really necessary. On the other hand, it is perfect and convenient for the job. I hope you like my photo, taken the night after I received the apparatus!