Innovative AI Tool Lets You Communicate with Your Plants

CBS

Students at Spelman College are developing an innovative artificial intelligence tool named PlantGPT, designed to allow individuals to interact with their plants in a more meaningful way.

The primary objective of PlantGPT is to assist anyone in nurturing their plants effectively, even if they lack experience in gardening.

Utilizing advanced AI technology, PlantGPT monitors various health parameters of plants through sensors embedded in the soil that collect real-time data. This AI then analyzes the information and generates tailored care instructions for each plant.

“I don’t know anything about plants. That’s why this is perfect,” shared Temple Dees, a junior involved in the project.

“The original idea stemmed from the question, ‘Would a plant survive better if it had its own voice and agency?’” explained Eric Thompson, the assistant director of the Innovation Lab at Spelman College.

Currently, PlantGPT is equipped to handle specific inquiries regarding plant care.

“It can provide insights on humidity, light levels, soil moisture, and outside temperature,” noted junior Jessica Obi.

While both Obi and Dees admit to not having a green thumb, they envision ambitious plans for PlantGPT that extend far beyond typical houseplants.

“We’re currently using a myriad of sensors, but for the average user, this can be quite complex,” Obi explained. “We aim to streamline the experience, making it user-friendly and more accessible. Our vision also includes expanding the tool’s capabilities for local farms, enabling caretakers to monitor multiple plants efficiently.”

“Witnessing students support one another and explore their aspirations in this cutting-edge field fills me with pride. They are developing concepts that are truly ahead of their time,” remarked Thompson.

Both Obi and Dees aspire to pursue careers in computer science, and in the meantime, they hope this project will help them cultivate their own plants successfully.

“I might get my own plant once we finalize this,” Obi expressed enthusiastically.