In a move bringing the serenity and benefits of nature into urban spaces, Calgary-based startup Tevagrow is flourishing. Founded by local innovator Tom Lam, the company manufactures advanced, self-watering indoor garden systems that are now gracing corporate offices, seniors' homes, and even the homes of self-proclaimed "plant assassins."
From Personal Passion to Calgary Business
Tom Lam has long combined his expertise in plants and water technology. Before launching Tevagrow, he developed monitoring systems for everything from fish to pets. At home, his own vertical racks supply his family with fresh lettuce, bok choy, and strawberries year-round. His latest venture applies this knowledge to solve a common problem: overwatering, which he identifies as a primary cause of houseplant failure.
"People often check only the surface soil, find it dry, and add more water," Lam explains. "But a few inches down, it's usually still damp. Adding more drowns the roots." His solution mimics nature's cycle, allowing soil to dry appropriately.
How Tevagrow's Smart Systems Work
Tevagrow's core technology is an automated, customized drip-watering system engineered to maintain plants in optimal health with minimal human intervention. The product line features two main offerings:
- TevaTowers: These are compact, single-row gardens holding three plants in four- or six-inch pots. Ideal for tropical plants with similar hydration needs, they fit into any small space. A built-in reservoir waters plants only when needed, and a connected app alerts the owner when it's time for a refill.
- TevaWalls: Designed as modular, living walls, these systems can be scaled to any size, such as a 30-inch bookshelf or an entire office feature. They are popular in Calgary's corporate showrooms and seniors' residences. A large 10-gallon tank provides over a month of autonomous hydration, with the app sending a low-level alert. The company's staff even provides pruning services for these ever-growing installations.
The modular design offers flexibility, allowing clients to rearrange, split, or expand their living walls as needed.
Rooting Growth in Calgary and Beyond
Tevagrow's growth is tangible. The company, which currently employs 28 people in Calgary, is actively looking to hire more staff as orders increase. Its first local customers were two Canadian Tire stores, providing early validation in the retail market.
The business is now branching out internationally. Employees recently worked to fulfill a landmark first order for the United States. Next week, 10,000 Tevagrow units will ship to the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, the North American leader in lawn and garden products. This shipment is part of an exclusive U.S. distribution agreement signed between the two companies, marking a significant milestone for the Calgary startup.
By making indoor greenery worry-free, Tevagrow is not just selling a product; it's promoting well-being by seamlessly integrating the positive effects of nature into daily indoor life, from Calgary homes to boardrooms across the continent.
