Thanks for the feedback! I actually don't have the phrase "open-source" in my questions. Instead, I ask: "Would you likely be tinkering with and modifying the system to your advantage? If so, would you be willing to share your improvements with others online?"

I think the angle I can pitch is the reduction/elimination of the unpleasant gardening tasks such as weeding and watering. A 50% gardening time reduction is definitely feasible; although I find myself spending more time than I need to examining various plants and observing the fish.