Who has never come across a plant stunning during an outdoor walk, a visit to a square or even walking through an urban garden? Naturally, when seeing an unknown species, curiosity is awakened and that immediate desire arises to discover what plant is that. However, until recently, this required technical knowledge, consultations with botanical guides or hours of online research.

However, with the advancement of technology and the development of smart applications, this process has become extremely simple. Today, it is possible to literally point the camera on your cell phone, take a photo and find out the name of the photo. plant in question in just a few seconds. That's right: with your cell phone in hand and the right app, you can have access to accurate identification, as well as several other useful information.

Among the most efficient apps currently available, two deserve special mention: PlantNet and the PictureThis. Both offer features that go far beyond simple identification, providing a true immersion in the universe of plants.

So if you are passionate about nature, curious about botany or want to take better care of your plants that cultivates, continue reading. Below, we will show you how these applications work, how to use them correctly and why they are so popular among green lovers.

Why use your cell phone to identify plants?

First of all, there is no denying that cell phones have become one of the main allies of modern life. Therefore, having an application that helps you identify a plant in just a few seconds is one of the great advantages offered by current technology.

Furthermore, identifying plants with your cell phone can be extremely useful for different types of users. For example, for those who cultivate a garden, knowing each plant better plant is essential to provide the right care. On the other hand, for those who are learning about botany or developing an environmental project, these tools make the learning process more dynamic and visual.

Likewise, these apps also help preserve the environment. After all, by knowing the name of the plant, it is possible to discover whether it is threatened, whether it is exotic or native and, with that, contribute to its preservation.

PlantNet: The collaborative science of plant identification

O PlantNet is a free application that stands out precisely for its scientific and collaborative approach. Developed by researchers and botanists from several renowned institutions, it allows users from all over the world to participate in the identification and mapping of species.

How does PlantNet work?

The operation is simple and effective. When you open the application, you can take a photo of the plant desired image or select an image from the gallery. You can then choose which part of the plant is being analyzed: leaf, flower, stem or fruit. Based on this, PlantNet compares the image with a vast database and offers identification suggestions, listing the most likely species.

Another point worth highlighting is the collaborative nature of the app. In other words, when you use PlantNet, you not only learn, but also contribute useful information to the scientific community, helping to build a collective record of the planet's plant biodiversity.

Advantages of PlantNet:

• Completely free and accessible;
• Reliable and constantly updated scientific basis;
• Active participation of users in enriching content;
• Intuitive interface, ideal for beginners and experts.

Therefore, PlantNet is the perfect choice for those who want to combine knowledge, technology and environmental engagement in a single application.

PictureThis: Artificial intelligence combined with plant care

Already the PictureThis offers an equally efficient proposal, but with an even greater focus on user experience and practical gardening. Using artificial intelligence technology, the application promises to identify any plant with just one image, in a matter of seconds.

How does PictureThis work?

When you open the app, simply take a photo of the plant or select an image from the gallery. PictureThis then analyzes the image and provides not only the name of the species, but also detailed information about it. Available data includes scientific name, origin, watering frequency, soil type, ideal light, pruning tips and much more.

Additionally, the application allows you to create a “virtual garden” where the user can save their plants, receive care reminders and even alerts about pests and diseases.

PictureThis's differentiators:

• Modern design and user-friendly navigation;
• In-depth information about each plant;
• Interactive resources for caring for species on a daily basis;
• AI technology with a high accuracy rate in identifications.

Therefore, PictureThis is more than just an identifier: it is a complete assistant for those who love plants and want to learn how to take excellent care of them.

Which app is more worthwhile?

When comparing the PlantNet and the PictureThis, it is important to highlight that both are effective, but they serve different profiles.

On the one hand, if you prefer a free, science-based app with a focus on collaboration, PlantNet is ideal. On the other hand, if your intention is not only to identify, but also to receive practical guidance on care, the PictureThis offers a more complete experience in this sense.

In general, using the two applications in a complementary way can be even more beneficial. This way, you will have the scientific knowledge of PlantNet and the practical features of PictureThis at your fingertips.

Conclusion

Find a plant beautiful and not knowing her name can generate curiosity — but fortunately, with the help of technology, this doubt can be resolved in seconds. Applications like PlantNet and PictureThis show how easy it is to identify plant species, learn about them and, as a bonus, improve the care of your garden or plant collection.

Whether you're a nature lover, a gardening novice, or someone who just wants to satisfy their curiosity, these apps offer a practical, fun, and educational way to explore the world of plants. So the next time you're enchanted by a unique piece of foliage or a vibrant flower, just point your camera and let technology reveal nature's secrets. 🌿📱🌼