Getting started
From box to autonomous garden in about 10 minutes
No prior experience required. If you can plug in a USB cable and join a Wi-Fi network, you can set up PlantHub.
PlantHub is designed so a complete beginner can get a plant on autopilot without writing config files, soldering, or installing Python tooling. Here is the full path from "I just got a board in the mail" to "the AI just skipped watering because rain is in the forecast."
1. Get an ESP32 board
Any ESP32-C3, ESP32-S3, or classic ESP32 dev board with USB works. Common kits start around $5 on AliExpress; full PlantHub kits with sensors are listed on the hardware page.
2. Plug your board into your laptop
Use a USB-C or microUSB cable that supports data, not just power. Cheap charge-only cables will not be detected by the browser.
3. Open the web flasher
Visit /flash in Chrome, Edge, Brave, or Opera. Pick your hardware kit, follow the wiring guide, and click "Connect & flash". Firmware installs in about 30 seconds.
4. Connect your board to Wi-Fi
After flashing, the board broadcasts a Wi-Fi network called PlantHub-Setup-XXXX. Join it on your phone or laptop and enter your home Wi-Fi credentials in the captive portal.
5. Claim your device
The board prints an 8-character claim code. Sign up for PlantHub, paste the code, and choose your plant species. The AI loads a profile with ideal sensor ranges and seeds starter automation rules.
6. Pick an AI mode and let it run
Choose Conservative, Balanced, Aggressive, Power-Saver, or Manual. PlantHub will watch your sensors, factor in weather, and water/vent when needed — explaining every decision in plain English.
Next steps
- Add a second device or zone if you have more plants.
- Read the learning levels guide to understand how the AI improves over time.
- Set up push notifications for offline devices or low-moisture alerts.
- Try the live demo with mock data first if you want to see the dashboard before buying hardware.