From Plant Killer to Shark Tank and CNN: The Flora Story

In this episode of The Hardtech Podcast, hosts DeAndre Harakas and Grant Chapman talk with Aabesh De, founder of Flora, about turning a personal problem; being a self-proclaimed “serial plant killer” into a fast-growing gardening technology brand. Aabesh shares how Flora was born from the need for better plant care solutions, and why integrating hardware and software is essential for creating a seamless user experience. The conversation dives into the realities of hardware prototyping, the pivotal exposure from Shark Tank, and the lessons learned about why marketing still matters even after national TV attention. They also explore how the Flora app serves as the heart of the ecosystem, building an engaged community of plant lovers while positioning Flora as a leading name in gardening and houseplant care. Along the way, Aabesh reflects on the importance of learning both the hardware and software languages as a founder navigating consumer tech. Whether you’re a founder, hardware builder, or just someone who wants to keep their plants alive, this episode offers practical insights and plenty of inspiration. Special Guest: Aabesh De.