Smart homes have become a standard in today’s world, and now the concept of an intelligent yard is emerging. Introducing Graham Hine, CEO of ePlant, who has launched the TreeTag. This solar-powered device attaches to trees to track their health and sends updates directly to a smartphone. Mounted on the tree’s side with a screw, TreeTags measure slight size changes, such as bark contraction, which can signal stress like water deficiency. They are equipped with an accelerometer to detect potential instability through movement patterns and a humidity sensor to complement local weather data. The TreeTag utilizes artificial intelligence to analyze and upload data to the cloud. It even allows interaction with trees via ChatGPT, making it possible to inquire about water needs or receive updates on growth and carbon capture.
The ePlant stands out as one of the most engaging and innovative devices seen this year. It leverages technology to enhance our understanding of the environment, offering data that helps identify biases and enabling thoughtful responses to climate change, extreme weather, and drought. Devices like the solar-powered TreeTag, when produced with low environmental impact, can enrich our sensory connection with the health of forests, orchards, and suburban yards. This helps reduce excessive watering, conserve tree and plant species affected by local weather shifts, and potentially boost food production efficiency per water usage. More information about ePlant is available at https://www.eplant.com/.
UPDATE: ePlant has expanded TreeTag beyond its initial smart-yard application. In May 2025, TreeTags provided live physiological and environmental data for the Avanade Intelligent Garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Sensors on 12 trees enabled an app where visitors could interact with the trees, and the garden was awarded a gold medal. Additionally, the company offers precision irrigation for growers, utilizing TreeTag as a LoRaWAN dendrometer capable of servicing anything from a single vineyard block to thousands of acres.
Editor’s Note: This episode was first published on October 23, 2023.
