PlantsTonic

These are the three main problems we aim to solve:

• Kitchen Organic Waste Management: In many communities globally, kitchen organic waste, such as vegetable scraps, fruit peels, and leftover food, often ends up in landfills. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, approximately one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted globally each year. This waste adds to methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, and fills up landfills.

• Chemical Fertilizer Dependency: Traditional gardening practices often rely on chemical fertilizers, which can have adverse effects on soil health, water quality, and biodiversity. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers can lead to nutrient runoff, soil degradation, and pollution of water bodies, impacting ecosystems and human health.

• Lack of Sustainable Gardening Knowledge: Many individuals lack knowledge about sustainable gardening practices, including how to properly manage organic waste and nurture plants without relying on chemical inputs. This lack of awareness contributes to unsustainable gardening habits and exacerbates environmental problems.

Interesting facts: 

• Food waste contributes up to 11.8% of global emissions
• Almost 45% of fruits and vegetables end up in landfills yearly
• Lettuce takes 25 years to decompose in landfills
• Food loss and waste comprise 24.1% of municipal landfills volume
• Adverse impacts of fertilizers are mainly caused by their excessive and
  inefficient use. Some fertilizers also impact human lives as a result of unsafe storage practices
• The surge in home and urban gardening translates to an annual spending of over $40 billion on gardening
• Australia, UK,EU, US rule to half home organic waste to landfill by 2030 to reach targets 1, 2, and 3 of Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG) by 2030

Relevant articles:

https://wedocs.unep.org/bitstream/handle/20.500.11822/40364/Pesticides_Ch10.pdf

https://sdg.iisd.org/news/unep-report-identifies-top-actions-to-minimize-adverse-impacts-of-pesticides-fertilizers/

https://www.fao.org/platform-food-loss-waste/food-waste/introduction/en

https://www.epa.gov/recycle/preventing-wasted-food-home

https://news-mit-edu.ezproxyberklee.flo.org/2017/study-food-waste-recycling-policy-key-0817

PlantsTonic app represents a groundbreaking solution in the realm of plant care, seamlessly integrating artificial intelligence to provide a comprehensive suite of features for gardening enthusiasts and environmental  conscious people in general. Leveraging image recognition and machine learning technologies, the app allows users to effortlessly identify a myriad of plant species by simply capturing an image. The sophisticated AI algorithm analyzes key botanical features, delivering accurate information on the identified plant, including common and scientific names, along with essential care tips. 

Beyond identification, the app employs the same powerful AI capabilities to detect potential diseases based on visual cues within submitted images, offering timely diagnoses and suggesting appropriate remedies. 

Notably, PlantsTonic app  extends its functionality by promoting sustainable gardening practices. Users receive personalized advice on repurposing kitchen organic leftovers—such as fruit peels and coffee grounds—as eco-friendly fertilizer. This innovative approach not only simplifies plant care but also encourages environmentally conscious habits. For a truly customized fertilization experience, the app recommends using a blender to mix organic kitchen leftovers with water, creating a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer. 

With a user-friendly interface and continual updates through cloud-based databases, PlantsTonic app  empowers users to foster healthy and thriving plants while contributing to a more sustainable and informed gardening community. In doing so, users gain a deeper appreciation of their role in environmental stewardship, fostering a reciprocal relationship where the environment nurtures them in return. At the end of the day, is exactly this  the sense of feeling good that motivates us to continue our efforts.

The PlantsTonic app serves a diverse range of individuals, catering to gardening enthusiasts , both novice and experienced, who seek a more informed and sustainable approach to plant care. This solution addresses the needs of individuals passionate about cultivating plants but facing challenges in plant identification, disease diagnosis, and adopting eco-friendly gardening practices. The target population includes homeowners, community gardeners, and urban dwellers, environmental  conscious people, representing a broad spectrum of people eager to enhance their green spaces.

Currently, many individuals in this demographic face hurdles in accurately identifying plant species and diagnosing diseases, often relying on traditional methods that may lack precision. Additionally, there's a growing awareness of the environmental impact of conventional fertilizers, prompting a desire for more sustainable alternatives. The PlantsTonic app directly addresses these pain points by offering a user-friendly platform for swift and accurate plant identification and disease detection. It bridges the knowledge gap, empowering users to make informed decisions about plant care based on scientific insights provided by the AI algorithm.

Moreover, the solution goes beyond mere identification by incorporating sustainable gardening practices. It targets those seeking eco-friendly alternatives to commercial fertilizers, often made with synthetic chemicals harmful to the environment. The recommendation to use a blender to create custom liquid fertilizer from kitchen organic leftovers, such as fruit peels and coffee grounds, adds a practical and sustainable dimension to the app's utility.

By serving this population, the PlantsTonic app contributes significantly to the lives of users in several ways. First and foremost, it enhances their gardening experience by providing accurate and timely information on plant species and potential diseases. This knowledge fosters a deeper connection with their green spaces, leading to healthier and more vibrant plants. Additionally, the app promotes sustainable living by encouraging the repurposing of kitchen organic leftovers, reducing waste, and offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional fertilizers.

The impact of the PlantsTonic app extends beyond individual users to benefit communities and the environment at large. As more individuals adopt sustainable gardening practices, there is a potential reduction in the use of chemical fertilizers, contributing to healthier soil and water ecosystems. Community gardens may thrive with more informed and empowered caretakers, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for environmental stewardship.

In essence, the PlantsTonic app aims to transform the lives of gardening enthusiasts and of environmental  conscious people, by providing a comprehensive, accessible, and sustainable solution to common challenges in plant care. By addressing the specific needs of this target population, the app not only elevates the gardening experience for individuals but also contributes to a broader movement toward eco-conscious and informed horticulture practices.

Our team is not just an external entity but an integral part of the communities we serve. The design and delivery of our solution are shaped by a collaborative and inclusive process, guided by the very individuals whose lives it aims to enhance. Our commitment to proximity, representation, and community-led development sets us apart, ensuring that our solution is not only effective but also deeply resonant with the people it serves.

Highlighting key aspects:

Proximity to the Communities: Our team is uniquely positioned to deliver this solution due to our deep-rooted connection and proximity to the communities we aim to serve. Our Team Lead and members have extensive experience living and working within our communities, most  involved in environment care hackathons both in local communities and globally. Thus, collectively, we are aware of the needs and the challenges and we can adopt our solutions to achieve an optimum result.

Representativeness: Our Team Lead embodies the diversity and cultural nuances of the target population. We all share a background with the community members, speak their language, and have a profound understanding of their socio-economic context. Additionally, our team composition is intentionally diverse, with members reflecting the ethnic, demographic, and social fabric of the community. More specifically our team consists of people from India, Cyprus, Romania and Hong Kong all bringing valuable experience from their communities.

Community Engagement: The design and implementation of our solution are not imposed from an external perspective but are deeply rooted in the input, ideas, and agendas of the communities themselves. We have actively engaged community members through participatory workshops, focus groups, and one-on-one consultations. This iterative process ensures that our solution is a collaborative effort, incorporating the voices of those directly affected. We have talked to local environmental groups in our respective communities and thus adjusted our solution based on gathered feedback. 

Inclusive Decision-Making: Our team believes in inclusive decision-making, where community members are not just recipients of the solution but are active contributors to its design and evolution. We have established ongoing feedback mechanisms to ensure continuous dialogue, allowing us to adapt our solution based on real-time input from the communities.

Cultural Sensitivity: Cultural sensitivity is ingrained in our approach. Our team understands the importance of respecting local traditions, values, and social structures. This awareness is not just theoretical but is a result of our team members having lived experiences within these communities, fostering a genuine connection and trust. Taking into account cultural sensitivities, our app adapts its solutions based on country the app is used by offering advice using locally produced ingredients. 

Empowerment and Capacity Building: Our solution goes beyond immediate problem-solving. We are committed to empowering community members by transferring skills and knowledge. Our team facilitates capacity-building initiatives that enable individuals within the community to take ownership of the solution, ensuring its sustainability and long-term impact.

Our progress with PlantsTonic has been impressive. We've rolled out a functional prototype for Android phones, which has garnered attention from a diverse user base. Among the approximately 100 individuals who've engaged with our app, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. We've successfully engaged around 100 individuals in multiple countries, including India, Hong Kong, USA and Canada, who have experimented with our organic fertilizer-making process. 

The feedback we've received has been overwhelmingly positive, with users reporting a significant reduction—some even reporting up to a complete elimination—of home organic waste. Above all, none reported any issues with the treated plants! This accomplishment demonstrates the tangible impact of our solution in promoting sustainable gardening practices and reducing environmental footprint.

Furthermore, our statistics indicate a high level of user satisfaction. Approximately 78% of users expressed satisfaction with the app's functionality, particularly praising its accuracy in plant identification. Moreover, over 73% of users found the blender-based fertilizer recipes to be practical and effective in nurturing their plants.

Overall, the feedback underscores the effectiveness and utility of PlantsTonic in promoting sustainable gardening practices while effectively addressing organic waste concerns worldwide!

We are applying to Solve because we believe in the power of collaboration and collective problem-solving. Solve's mission aligns perfectly with our commitment to addressing pressing global challenges through innovative solutions. We see Solve as a strategic partner in overcoming financial, technical, legal, cultural, and market barriers. We are not solely seeking funds but, more importantly, seeking a collaborative ecosystem that can catalyze our solution's impact on a global scale. The potential for mentorship, expertise, and meaningful connections is what makes Solve the ideal platform for us!

Challenges and how MIT solve can help:

-Technical Challenges: Our solution involves advanced technologies, and we face technical challenges in scaling and refining our platform. Solve's network can potentially link us with technical experts, advisors, or collaborators who can offer insights and guidance.

-Legal and Regulatory Complexities: Navigating legal and regulatory landscapes, especially in the sustainability and technology sectors, poses challenges. Solve's expertise and partnerships could provide guidance on compliance and navigating complex regulatory frameworks.

-Cultural Understanding: Our solution may require cultural adaptation to be effective in different regions. Solve's global network and diverse community can help us gain insights into local cultures and practices, enabling us to tailor our solution appropriately.

-Market Access and Validation: Accessing markets and gaining validation for our solution is crucial. Solve's connections with industry leaders, potential customers, and market experts can open doors for us to showcase our solution and receive valuable feedback.

-Scientific Validation: Trials of our app by MIT University biologists will further help verify that our proposed blender-based fertilizer meets the nutrient requirements of each identified plant. Solve's association with MIT and its network of experts can further enhance the scientific validation process, providing credibility and opening avenues for collaboration with academic institutions and research partners.

The PlantsTonic app innovates plant care with a holistic, user-centric approach, leveraging cutting-edge technology to address common gardening challenges. Unlike traditional plant ID apps, PlantsTonic not only identifies species accurately but also employs AI for disease detection and offers personalized advice for sustainable practices. What makes PlantsTonic to stand out from similar, plant recognition apps, is its unique feature of leveraging AI to provide tailored fertilizer for each recognized plant. To this extent, PlantsTonic app offers fertilizer recipes using fruit and vegetable leftovers as well as organic ingredients such as eggshells and coffee grounds.

Key to our innovation is the integration of machine learning and image recognition in the identification process. The AI algorithm analyzes intricate plant features, surpassing apps relying solely on visual similarities. Moreover, the app addresses the environmental impact of traditional fertilizers by recommending a custom liquid fertilizer made from kitchen organic leftovers blended with water. This not only reduces waste but promotes a circular economy, turning scraps into valuable resources and positively impacting home organic landfill waste reduction.

PlantsTonic's impact extends beyond individuals to communities and the industry. It can catalyze a shift towards sustainable gardening practices, potentially reducing the demand for synthetic fertilizers. This shift aligns with global sustainability goals, contributing to healthier ecosystems and setting a new standard for plant care applications.

The app's innovation lies not only in its technological prowess but also in inspiring positive behavioral change. By seamlessly integrating sustainability into plant care, PlantsTonic encourages users to consider the broader environmental impact of their practices. This shift in mindset may influence others in the gardening space, fostering a more eco-friendly industry.

PlantsTonic is an innovative solution combining advanced technology with forward-thinking plant care. From AI-driven identification to sustainable fertilizer recommendations and waste reduction, it sets a new standard for a more sustainable and informed approach to gardening

PlantsTonic aims to empower users to become successful and environmentally conscious gardeners, leading to healthier plants and a greener planet. By offering accurate plant identification, disease detection, personalized advice, and eco-friendly fertilizer recipes, the app equips users with the tools they need to care for their plants sustainably.

The main activities of PlantsTonic include accurate plant identification, disease detection using AI technology, personalized advice for sustainable gardening practices, and customized fertilizer recipes made from organic ingredients.

The immediate outputs expected from PlantsTonic are accurate plant information, early disease detection, tailored recommendations for plant care, and access to customized fertilizer recipes.

In the longer term, PlantsTonic aims to achieve improved plant health, increased adoption of sustainable gardening practices, and a reduction in waste through the utilization of organic ingredients for fertilizer.

Evidence supporting these outcomes includes third-party research demonstrating the benefits of early disease detection and personalized care recommendations, user interviews indicating satisfaction with PlantsTonic's features, particularly in reducing fruit and vegetable waste, and impact evaluations showing a correlation between sustainable gardening practices and positive environmental outcomes.

PlantsTonic's impact goals center on catalyzing a positive shift in plant care habits, championing sustainability, and bolstering environmental welfare. PlantsTonic's impact goals target sustainable gardening practices, decreased synthetic fertilizer reliance, improved plant vitality, waste reduction, community sway, and alignment with global sustainability pursuits. Through carefully chosen indicators and measurement methodologies, PlantsTonic aims to illuminate its transformative impact on individuals, communities, and the broader gardening domain.

The impact goals in more detail:

• Promoting Sustainable Gardening Practices:

  • Indicator: Quantifying user adoption of recommended sustainable gardening methods, particularly the utilization of kitchen organic remnants as a bespoke liquid fertilizer.
  • Measurement: Monitoring the uptick in users embracing sustainable gardening practices as advocated by the app.

• Decreasing Reliance on Synthetic Fertilizers:

  • Indicator: Tracking the decline in users' procurement and application of synthetic fertilizers.
  • Measurement: Employing surveys and user feedback analysis to gauge the reduction in synthetic fertilizer usage attributable to PlantsTonic's guidance.

• Enhancing Plant Health and Vigor:

  • Indicator: Assessing user-reported enhancements in plant health and vitality.
  • Measurement: Curating user testimonials and feedback on observed improvements in plant well-being post-adoption of PlantsTonic's recommendations.

• Mitigating Home Organic Landfill Waste:

  • Indicator: Monitoring the reduction in kitchen organic waste volume sent to landfills.
  • Measurement: Conducting surveys and analyzing data on waste reduction following the app's directives on repurposing kitchen organic leftovers.

• Influencing Communities and Industries:

  • Indicator: Gauging recognition and uptake of sustainable gardening practices advocated by PlantsTonic within local communities and the gardening sector.
  • Measurement: Tracking media coverage, community involvement, and industry acknowledgment of PlantsTonic's impact on sustainable gardening.

• Contributing to Global Sustainability Objectives:

  • Indicator: Aligning with pertinent UN Sustainable Development Goals, notably SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
  • Measurement: Periodically evaluating how PlantsTonic's endeavors align with specific indicators outlined in relevant SDGs.

Measuring progress methodology:

• Regular user surveys gather qualitative and quantitative insights on gardening practices, fertilizer usage, and plant health. We already implemented this in our pilot face and collected data that allows to adjust our methods to optimize benefits to the people and to the environment
• In-app/website analytics track user engagement with sustainable gardening features and the frequency of recommended practice adoption.
• Collaborations with gardening communities and industry stakeholders provide insight into broader adoption and influence.
• Periodic environmental impact assessments encompass waste reduction metrics and adherence to sustainability tenets. We have a spreadsheet that allowed us recording available feedback from users in a structure way that allows assess our impact  

The core technology behind PlantsTonic combines artificial intelligence (AI) and user-friendly mobile application development to create a seamless and transformative experience for users engaged in plant care. This integration is further enriched by incorporating traditional knowledge systems, fostering a harmonious relationship between modern technology and ancestral practices.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a crucial role in PlantsTonic, primarily focusing on plant identification and fertilizer recipes based on plant health. The AI algorithms are trained on extensive datasets of plant images, enabling them to recognize intricate features and patterns. When users capture images of unknown plants, the AI processes the images, compares them against the database, and provides accurate identification. For disease detection, the model analyzes visual cues to swiftly identify potential illnesses based on established patterns. The AI's continuous learning capabilities ensure that the system becomes more accurate over time, adapting to new data and refining its capabilities.

The user-friendly mobile application serves as the interface for PlantsTonic, designed for accessibility and ease of use. It allows gardening enthusiasts of all levels to benefit from its features effortlessly. Users can capture plant images, receive instant identification and disease diagnosis, and access personalized advice for sustainable plant care practices. The application acts as a central hub for information, guidance, and community engagement, enhancing the overall user experience.

PlantsTonic leverages a cloud-based infrastructure to ensure scalability, flexibility, and continuous updates. This enables the app to access and update its extensive databases of plant species, diseases, and sustainable gardening practices in real-time. The cloud infrastructure supports the app's learning capabilities, enabling it to stay current with evolving plant care knowledge, trends, and user interactions.

In addition to technological innovations, PlantsTonic provides guidance for sustainable gardening practices, integrating modern technology with traditional knowledge systems. For instance, it recommends the use of kitchen organic leftovers blended with water as a custom liquid fertilizer, aligning with both environmental sustainability and traditional methods of utilizing natural resources. This circular economy approach reflects the ethos of PlantsTonic, emphasizing the importance of preserving and integrating ancestral wisdom into modern solutions for sustainable living.

Four full-time team members and two part-time contributors are dedicated to advancing PlantsTonic's mission. Each full-time member brings specialized skills and expertise to the project, contributing to its development and growth. The part-time contributors offer valuable support, supplementing the team's efforts with their unique perspectives and contributions. Together, our diverse team collaborates closely to leverage artificial intelligence and user-friendly mobile application development, creating a seamless and transformative experience for users engaged in plant care. Our commitment and dedication drive PlantsTonic's progress as it continues to innovate and promote sustainable gardening practices worldwide.

Over two years, our startup has evolved since winning the MIT Covid19 challenge on Well-Being: Adapting to the new normal. Motivated by positive feedback, our aim is to craft an app that brings joy to users and benefits the planet. Through diligent research and analysis, we developed our application, conducting comprehensive feasibility studies on market trends, user preferences, and competition landscapes. What we learned,  allowed us to adjust our strategy, revealing market demand, identifying potential obstacles, and showcasing innovation prospects.

This thorough analysis enriched our understanding of the problem space, laying a robust groundwork for successful app development and deployment.

Our leadership team comprises individuals from diverse backgrounds, including Cyprus, India, Hong Kong, and Romania. Recognizing the importance of fostering collaboration and productivity, we prioritize creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

To achieve this, we have implemented various strategies. Firstly, all team members have undergone diversity awareness training to enhance their understanding of different cultures and perspectives. This training has promoted empathy and appreciation for diversity within our team.

In terms of recruitment, we have adopted blind recruitment strategies to ensure fairness and diversity in our selection processes. By focusing on skills and qualifications rather than personal characteristics, we aim to create a level playing field for all candidates.

Additionally, we have conducted workshops on cultural sensitivity and communication. These workshops have helped team members understand and respect each other's cultural norms, values, and communication styles, thereby minimizing misunderstandings and promoting a harmonious work environment.

Our leadership style emphasizes inclusivity, with leaders actively seeking input from all team members and creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions. Furthermore, we have implemented flexible work policies to accommodate diverse needs, such as different time zones and cultural holidays.

A clear code of conduct has been developed, emphasizing respect, inclusivity, and zero tolerance for discrimination or bias. Regular check-ins with team members ensure that concerns are addressed promptly, demonstrating our commitment to their well-being.

To support integration and ongoing development, mentorship programs and buddy systems have been established. These initiatives facilitate relationships among team members and provide additional support for new members.

Encouraging the formation of employee resource groups based on common interests, backgrounds, or experiences has provided a platform for networking, sharing experiences, and offering support within the organization.

Finally, regular feedback mechanisms allow team members to express their thoughts on inclusivity, ensuring that we remain responsive to evolving needs and challenges. Through these efforts, we aim to create an environment where diversity is celebrated, barriers are minimized, and everyone feels included and valued for their unique contributions.

PlantsTonic business model aims to provide value to users by combining advanced plant identification with sustainable gardening practices, promoting a greener approach to plant care.

Detail description of our business model structure:

Value Proposition:  PlantsTonic provides users with an advanced plant identification app that not only helps them identify various plant species but also offers sustainable and personalized fertilization suggestions. Users can contribute to environmental conservation by adopting a green approach to plant care.

Customer Segments: The primary customers for PlantsTonic are gardening enthusiasts, plant lovers, and individuals seeking an eco-friendly and efficient way to care for their plants. It can also attract environmentally conscious users interested in reducing waste.

Channels: At the moment PlantsTonic app is only available in android and given to multiple people around the world to try and get their feedback. We aim to release our app on both android and iOS soon. Users can access plant identification features and receive personalized fertilizer recommendations directly through the app. We also have dedicated social media pages that explain how PlantsTonic works:

•  Instangram: https://www.instagram.com/plantstonic_app/
•  X: https://x.com/PlantsTonic?t=C6Ffw92gaWs0_S1seOcSXQ&s=03
•  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@plantstonic?lang=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plantstonic/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557128998796 
• Webpage:https://free-4422088.webador.com/                               

All channels aim at giving extra information and updates on our unique social project.

Customer Relationships: PlantsTonic focuses on building a positive customer relationship through in-app support, community forums, and regular updates. Engaging content on sustainable gardening practices and environmental impact helps create a sense of community among users.

Revenue Streams: The app aim to generate revenue through a freemium model, offering basic plant identification for free and charging a premium for advanced features like personalized fertilizer recommendations. Additional revenue streams may include partnerships with blender machine manufacturers and affiliate marketing for sustainable gardening products.

Key Resources: Key resources include the app development team, a comprehensive plant database, and partnerships with blender machine (or even juice extractor) sellers, worldwide, and suppliers of organic kitchen waste disposal systems.

Key Activities: The core activities involve app development, regular updates to the plant database, and collaborations with blender machine manufacturers to integrate fertilizer suggestions. Marketing efforts would focus on user acquisition and promoting the app's sustainability features.

Key Partnerships: Collaborations with blender machine manufacturers, organic waste disposal systems, and perhaps nurseries or eco-friendly gardening product suppliers could be crucial partnerships to enhance the user experience and offer additional services.

Cost Structure: Costs would include app development, maintenance, marketing, partnerships, and database management. Operating costs associated with server maintenance and user support are also factors to consider.

Impact Measurement: PlantsTonic measures its impact by tracking the number of users adopting sustainable fertilization practices, reduction in chemical fertilizer usage, and the amount of organic waste diverted from landfills. Environmental metrics and user testimonials can demonstrate the positive influence on sustainable gardening practices.

Financial Sustainability Plan for PlantsTonic:

Diverse Revenue Streams: PlantsTonic can adopt a diversified revenue model to ensure financial sustainability. This includes a freemium model for basic features, premium subscriptions for advanced functionalities, and strategic partnerships with eco-friendly product manufacturers for additional income.

Freemium Model: Offering basic plant identification for free while charging for premium features such as in-depth plant care advice and personalized fertilization recommendations can attract a large user base while generating revenue from users seeking enhanced services.

Premium Subscriptions: Introduce subscription plans for gardening enthusiasts who want an ad-free experience, exclusive content, and priority access to new features. This subscription model provides a steady source of income and encourages user loyalty. Metrics such as conversion rates and user feedback can serve as indicators of success.

Partnerships: Collaborate with blender machine sellers (or even juice extractors sellers) , organic waste disposal systems, and eco-friendly gardening product suppliers. By featuring their products or services within the app and receiving a percentage of sales, PlantsTonic can generate additional revenue. For instance, a blender machine company might pay PlantsTonic for every user who purchases their product by using a unique code given by PlantsTonic app.

Data Monetization: Aggregate and anonymize user data to provide valuable insights to nurseries, agricultural researchers, or organizations interested in understanding plant care trends. This can create a supplementary revenue stream while maintaining user privacy. For this, we have implemented a login to our prototype app which allows to monitor some basic user information from which we can extract valuable information.

User Growth and Retention: A growing user base, coupled with positive user retention metrics, can attract advertisers interested in reaching a sustainable and environmentally conscious audience. This can lead to additional revenue through targeted advertising. Unlike similar plant identification apps, we differentiate by providing tailored, for each identified plant, home made organic fertilizer. Given that the nutrient needs, of each plant, change from time to time, a user will essentially need to keep using the app more often than other apps. From our market research, we have seen that, users of existing plant identification apps, often uninstall them after using it few times. This is because many tent to recognize their plants name and what their plants need (i.e need more/less water, sunshine) over time. Also the growing trends towards organic fertilizer is quite promising with respect to user growth and retention.

Examples of Success: PlantsTonic won an MIT hackathon award and used that money to kickstart the app