Support
Answers to common questions, and a direct line to us if you need more help.
Frequently asked questions
Can't find what you need? Drop us an email.
How do I add a new plant?
Tap the + button on the home screen to open the Add Plant form. Give your plant a name, choose a profile (e.g. Edible Seed, Houseplant, Herb), add a start date, and optionally attach a reference photo (seed packet, nursery tag, etc.). Tap Save and you're done.
How do I use AI features?
AI features require your own OpenAI API key. Go to Settings → AI & API Key and paste your key. Once set, you'll see AI analysis buttons (🤖) on plant cards and the plant detail page. All results are shown for your review before anything is saved.
Where do I get an OpenAI API key?
Sign up at platform.openai.com, create an account, and generate an API key under API keys. You'll need a small amount of credit on your OpenAI account — typical usage in Rooted is very low cost.
Is my data safe? Does Rooted send anything to a server?
Rooted is local-first. Your plants, photos, notes, and events are stored only on your device. Rooted has no servers and collects no analytics or personal data. The only time data leaves your device is when you use optional AI features (sent directly to OpenAI's API), or when you export a backup via your device's share sheet.
How do I back up my plants?
Go to Settings → Export Backup. Rooted creates a .zip file containing all your plant data and photos, then opens your device's share sheet so you can save it to Files, send it by email, or store it anywhere you like. We recommend doing this regularly.
How do I restore from a backup?
Go to Settings → Import Backup and select your backup zip file. Rooted will show you a summary of the backup contents before proceeding. A restore is a full replacement — it overwrites all current data. You'll be offered the option to back up first before continuing.
What happens if I lose or replace my phone?
If you have a recent backup, you can restore all your data on a new device. Export a backup before switching devices and keep the file somewhere safe (cloud storage, email, etc.). Without a backup, data stored locally cannot be recovered.
How do watering reminders work?
Rooted schedules local push notifications based on each plant's watering interval and your preferred time of day (Morning, Afternoon, or Evening). Reminders are managed entirely on-device — no server is involved. You can enable, disable, or adjust them per plant in the plant detail screen.
Which plant types are supported?
Rooted includes built-in profiles for edible plants grown from seed, herbs, flowers (seed and bulb), root crops, edible tubers, houseplants (mature), and a generic profile for anything else. Each profile shows relevant stage labels, age wording, and AI prompt behaviour suited to that plant type.
Does Rooted work offline?
Yes — completely. The app, your data, and all photos are stored on-device. The only features that require an internet connection are the optional AI analysis and growing guide tools, which call OpenAI's API.
How do I log a watering, repotting, or other event?
Open a plant's detail page and tap Log Event (or the relevant quick-action button). Choose the event type, add an optional note or photo, and save. The event will appear in the plant's timeline, sorted newest to oldest.
I found a bug or something isn't working. What should I do?
Please email us at miga02@gmail.com with a brief description of what happened, which plant profile or screen was involved, and your device model and OS version if you know it. Screenshots are always welcome.