Leaf, the start-up that wants to revolutionize indoor cultivation

As part of TechCrunch Disrupt SF 2015, the conference in which Snoop announced creating Merry Jane, its cannabis media platform, another company is attacking the weed market with a revolution: the «fridge» that grows cannabis.

Leaf, is a 1m20 high by 60cm wide device that can hold two plants and produce between 130 and 150 grams of weed.

However, Leaf is a little more than a mini greenhouse. The system will control everything the plant needs, including light, fertilizer levels and soil PH.

The system will also react to these measurements: if it senses that the plant lacks fertilizer, Leaf will be able to distribute more, or if the plant needs more light, Leaf will automatically boost the lighting. Users will also have control over these variables, and will be able to create their own «recipes».

Leaf can be administered via an application on your smartphone, which also serves as a social network for users, enabling them to exchange recipes, photos and videos of their plants.

A mini-camera will be incorporated inside the device, automatically recording a timelapse of the crop. Users will be able to see the inside of their own or their friends« »fridge" live.

Leaf was supported by Advanced Nutrients (you remember Big Mike ?), a major player in the cannabis fertilizer. The company will supply the fertilizers for Leaf, which will be individually packaged for replacement like printer cartridges.

All this technology will come at a cost. Leaf will be sold for 1499$, which is much more expensive than planting a seed yourself. The company's argument is that Leaf will pay for itself after just a few months, compared with buying from dispensaries.

Initial reactions in the United States are not all positive. The initial investment is particularly pointed out in comparison with do-it-yourself systems already in existence. Also, the advertised production costs seem exaggerated in relation to the size of the unit and the equipment installed, notably the LED panels. This makes it a product aimed above all at customers with means who don't want to get their hands dirty or bother with plant maintenance.

Each growing session will cost 150$ in fertilizer and carbon filter. The company hopes to eventually lower the price of Leaf, and make money from the sale of refills (like a coffee machine).

Pre-orders are open to U.S. customers residing in the States where cannabis cultivation is authorized. They can already pay a deposit of 100$ to receive the first exclusive Leaf models in summer 2016.