"TL;DR: Yes, the Heirloom Basin is compatible with the Sun Shelf 1 and 2. You will need a short DC extension cable to bridge the gap between the pump and the controller, as the stock cable does not reach.
The cable you need
A 1m 2.1mm DC extension lead will do the job. 50cm would also work if you can find that length. Search for ""2.1mm DC extension lead"" online to find compatible options from local suppliers.
What you gain with the Heirloom Basin
- Capacity: 20L per basin versus a combined 12L from the two original basins. You get roughly 1.1L of water per plant compared to 500mL, meaning fewer refills.
- Silicone net cups: The cups hug the lids more tightly, reducing evaporation and blocking light from reaching the water to prevent algae growth.
- Easier cleaning: Larger internal corner radii and a smooth surface mean no toothbrush required.
- Built-in refill funnel: Makes topping up the reservoir much more convenient.
- Plant count: 18 plants per Heirloom Basin versus 24 across two original basins combined.
One honest trade-off
The plastic on the Heirloom Basin feels less premium than the original, and the lid is a tighter fit. This was a deliberate decision to keep costs down at that capacity. The material is actually thicker, so structural integrity is not compromised."
Apr 29, 2026