SmartyPlants, a technology startup focused on improving everyday plant care, has secured £190,000 in funding from British Design Fund to support the development of its smart sensor system for house plants. The funding will be used to support product development and exploratory work, including early research into possible United Kingdom and international distribution opportunities.
SmartyPlants was founded in 2023 by Ben Beavers to address the challenge faced by householders of knowing when and how to care for their plants with confidence. SmartyPlants aims to help plant owners understand exactly what their houseplants need through the use of smart sensors and a companion app that provides real-time information on soil moisture, light levels, temperature, humidity, and nutrients.
In 2023, United Kingdom adults spent £700 million on houseplants, according to a report by the Horticultural Trades Association. Inconsistent watering routines, poor light conditions, and limited insight into plant health can all prove fatal for plants, which SmartyPlants seeks to address through its sensor-based system.
