Being a houseplant mom or dad is not easy—those green babies require a lot of care and attention. Smart technology has made managing them significantly easier for me. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for someone who spends their winter tending to their beloved plants, consider these innovative ideas.
An Automatic Indoor Watering System
Watering plants is a task that many struggle with, myself included. An automatic watering system can be a lifesaver. It’s simple to set up: a pump draws water from a designated source (I use a tall pitcher). You connect 1/4-inch black poly tubing to each plant, with stakes and emitters, and adjust them as needed. It can even supply water to hanging plants. The app controls how often and how much to water. I have two systems—one for plants that need frequent watering and another for those that prefer drier soil.
A Smart Plant Moisture Sensor That Actually Works
While plant sensors have been around for years, most have been unreliable—until now. The Flora Pod is a game-changer. Insert it into the soil and use the app for insights on moisture levels and plant health. It diagnoses problems, provides expert advice, and is best for indoor use. It’s a must-have for the tech-savvy plant parent.
A Way to Keep Track of My Entire Plant Family
Keeping track of numerous plants can be challenging. Enter Planta, an app that acts as a plant inventory and reminder calendar. It features a light meter, considers local weather for watering schedules, and has a diagnostic tool. You can share your plant care schedule with others, making it ideal for house sitters. A subscription is $36 a year, so a gift card is a thoughtful present.
Smart Plant Frames Free Up Floor Space and Turn Plants into Art
Plants often take up valuable space. Modern Sprout’s plant frames transform your plants into living wall art, saving floor space. These frames include grow lights and water reservoirs, available in various configurations. They are a stylish, albeit pricey, addition to any plant lover’s home.
Gift Cards to Plant Marketplaces
While local nurseries are wonderful, many plant enthusiasts prefer sourcing houseplants from online marketplaces like Etsy and Palmstreet. Gift cards to these platforms allow them to expand their collection. After all, the more plants, the merrier!
