Legal & policies

Privacy Policy

Last updated: July 5, 2026

Hey there, fellow plant person. We built rootr. to help neighbors share the green things they grow — not to harvest your data. This policy explains what we collect, why we need it, and how you stay in control.

1. Who we are

rootr. is operated by SilvaByte, LLC. When we say "we," "us," or "our" in this policy, that's who we mean. When we say "you," we mean you — the person using rootr. to swap plants with your neighbors.

2. Information we collect

Here's the full picture of what we gather and why:

Account basics

• Your email address — we use it to sign you in with an 8-digit one-time code (no passwords to remember)
• A display name you choose — so other swappers know who they're chatting with
• An optional bio — totally up to you

Location

• Your approximate coordinates (latitude and longitude) — so we can show you plants nearby
• City and neighborhood — derived from your coordinates to display on your profile
• A search radius you set (5, 10, 25, or 50 miles) — you decide how far to look

Your plants

• Plant names, descriptions, care details, and photos you upload
• Whether you're offering to swap or give away

Activity

• Interaction history (which plants you liked or passed on) — so we don't show the same ones again
• Swap records — who offered what, the status, and optional ratings afterward
• Chat messages between you and other swappers

Device info

• Push notification tokens — so we can ping you when someone wants your monstera
• Your notification preferences — you choose what gets through

Usage analytics

To understand how rootr. is used and where we can improve, we collect anonymized usage data. This is sent to our own servers — we do not use third-party analytics services.

• A random session identifier — generated fresh each browser session, not tied to your account, and cleared when you close the tab
• Device and browser metadata — screen dimensions and browser type, so we can optimize the experience across devices
• Page views and referrer — which screens you visit and how you arrived at rootr., to understand navigation patterns
• Marketing attribution — if you arrived via a link with campaign parameters (UTM tags), we capture those to understand which channels bring people to rootr.
• Interaction events — anonymized signals like browsing patterns, swap lifecycle steps, and search or filter usage. These events never include message content, photos, or your exact location.

3. How we use your information

Everything we collect serves the core purpose of connecting plant people:

• Showing you plants available near you
• Letting you list your own plants for others to discover
• Facilitating swaps and conversations between neighbors
• Sending notifications you've opted into (swap requests, messages)
• Displaying ads (more on this in section 6)
• Analyzing anonymized usage patterns to understand which features are working, where users get stuck, and how to make rootr. better

We don't sell your data.

4. Location data

Location is core to how rootr. works — swapping plants with someone across the country doesn't make much sense. Here's how we handle it:

• We ask your browser or device for coordinates via the standard Geolocation API
• We send those coordinates to OpenStreetMap's Nominatim service to get your city and neighborhood name — they don't store this data
• Your coordinates are stored in our database to power nearby plant discovery
• You control your search radius, and you can update your location anytime in settings

5. How we share your information

We keep your data close:

• Other rootr. users — Your display name, city, and plant listings are visible to nearby users. Your email and exact coordinates are never shared.
• Supabase — Our database and infrastructure provider. They store your data securely on our behalf.
• OpenStreetMap/Nominatim — Receives your coordinates once to return a place name. They operate under their own privacy policy.
• Usage analytics are processed on our own first-party servers — we do not send your data to any third-party analytics providers.

We don't share your personal data with advertisers, data brokers, or anyone else.

6. Advertising

rootr. is free to use. We sustain the app by showing small, tasteful ads between swipes.

• We keep ads small, tasteful, and unobtrusive
• We will never sell, share, or give your personal information to advertisers — ever
• Ad partners may receive anonymized, aggregated data (like general region — never your exact location, name, or email)
• We will never target ads based on your messages, plant listings, or swap activity

Your data stays yours. If we change how advertising works, we will update this policy.

7. Data storage and security

• Your data is stored in a Supabase-hosted PostgreSQL database with row-level security — meaning database rules enforce that you can only access your own data
• Authentication tokens on mobile devices are stored using encrypted secure storage
• Photos are stored in Supabase Storage with access controls
• All data is transmitted over HTTPS
• Usage analytics are sent over HTTPS to our own servers — session identifiers are ephemeral and cleared when you close your browser tab
• Analytics data does not contain message content, photos, or exact location coordinates

8. Data retention

All your data — account info, plants, messages, and usage analytics — is kept as long as your account is active. When you delete your account, everything goes with it.

9. Your rights and choices

You're in the driver's seat:

• Access — You can view all the data you've provided in the app
• Update — Edit your profile, plants, and preferences anytime
• Delete — You can delete your account from within the app, which permanently removes your profile, plants, browsing history, and messages
• Notifications — Toggle notification types on or off in your settings
• Location — Revoke location access through your device settings at any time

10. Children's privacy

rootr. is not intended for anyone under 13. We don't knowingly collect information from children. If you believe a child has created an account, please reach out and we'll remove it.

11. State Privacy Rights & DMCA Policy

• Your State Privacy Rights: Depending on your state of residence (such as California, Oregon, or Virginia), you may have specific rights regarding your personal data. You have the right to request access to the data we have collected about you, request deletion of your data, and opt out of the sale or sharing of your personal information. To exercise these rights, contact us at [email protected].
• Copyright & DMCA Policy: We respect the intellectual property rights of others. If you believe your copyrighted work (such as a photograph) has been uploaded to rootr. without authorization, please submit a DMCA takedown notice to [email protected] with a description of the work, its location on the app, and your contact information.

12. Changes to this policy

If we make meaningful changes to how we handle your data, we'll update this page and the "last updated" date above. For significant changes, we may also notify you through the app.

13. Get in touch

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: July 5, 2026

Welcome to rootr. — the plant-swapping app for neighbors. These terms set the ground rules so everyone has a good experience. By using rootr., you agree to play by them.

1. What rootr. is

rootr. is a platform that connects neighbors who want to swap, share, or give away plants. We provide the space to discover nearby plants, chat with growers, and arrange swaps. We're the matchmaker — the actual swap happens between you and your neighbor.

2. Platform is a Venue Only

rootr. acts exclusively as an informational venue to allow users to discover and communicate with one another. We are not a party to any transaction or exchange.

By using rootr., you acknowledge and agree that:

• rootr. does not transfer legal ownership of items from one user to another.
• rootr. does not manufacture, store, inspect, or hold any inventory.
• rootr. is not a broker, agent, or insurer for any user.
• Any agreement to swap, gift, or exchange items is made solely between the users involved.

Because we are not involved in the actual exchange of goods, you agree that rootr. bears no liability for the quality, safety, legality, or true identity of any item listed, or the ability of users to complete a swap.

3. User-Generated Content & Moderation

rootr. allows users to post photos, descriptions, and messages (User-Generated Content or "UGC"). We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for objectionable content and abusive users. By using rootr., you agree that:

• You will not post content that is illegal, offensive, harassing, or intended to disgust.
• rootr. provides in-app features to block abusive users and report objectionable content.
• Our moderation team will review flagged content and act promptly — typically within 72 hours — to remove offending material and eject users who violate these guidelines.
• Apple and Google are not sponsors of rootr., are not responsible for the app or its content, and have no obligation to provide maintenance or support services for the platform.

4. Advertising

rootr. is free to use. We sustain the app by showing small, tasteful ads between swipes.

• We aim to keep any ads relevant and unobtrusive
• We reserve the right to adjust ad placements as the app evolves
• We will never sell your personal data to advertisers (see our privacy policy for details)

5. Usage analytics

We collect anonymized usage data — like which screens you visit and how you interact with features — to understand what's working and improve rootr. This data is processed on our own servers, not by third-party analytics providers. For full details on what we collect and how, see our privacy policy.

6. Your account

You sign in with your email via an 8-digit one-time code — no password needed. By creating an account, you agree that:

• You're at least 13 years old
• The information you provide is accurate
• You'll keep your account secure (don't share your sign-in codes)
• You're responsible for everything that happens under your account

7. Your content

When you add plants, upload photos, write descriptions, or send messages, that content is yours. By posting it on rootr., you give us a license to display it within the app — for example, showing your plant listing to nearby users. We won't use your content for anything else.

You agree not to post content that:

• You don't have the right to share
• Is misleading about what you're offering
• Is illegal, harmful, or harassing
• Contains spam or commercial solicitation

8. Plant swaps, Consumables & Prohibited Items

Let's be clear about our role: rootr. helps you find nearby plants and connect with the people growing them. The actual swap is between you and the other person.

• We don't inspect, verify, or guarantee the health or quality of any plant.
• We don't handle delivery — that's between you and the other swapper.
• Meet-ups happen at your own discretion and risk (we always recommend public spaces).
• If a swap goes sideways, you can rate the experience and reach out to us, but we can't undo a swap.

Prohibited Items

You agree that you will not use the platform to share, trade, or distribute:

• Cannabis, illicit substances, or legally restricted/invasive plant species.
• Alcohol, raw or unpasteurized dairy, unregulated meat products, expired commercial goods, or any opened/unsealed perishable items, liquids, or wet goods (e.g., half-used condiments or prepared meals).

Assumption of Risk for Consumables

All food, pantry items, and edible plants exchanged through rootr. are consumed entirely at your own risk. rootr. does not inspect, test, or verify the safety, ingredients, or allergen profile of any item. To the fullest extent permitted by law, you release SilvaByte, LLC from any liability relating to foodborne illness, allergic reactions, or failure by any user to comply with local Cottage Food Laws or health regulations.

9. User interactions & in-person safety

rootr. connects neighbors, but we are not a party to any meet-up, swap, or relationship that takes place between users. We do not screen, vet, background-check, or verify the identity of anyone who uses the app. Like any platform that brings strangers together, rootr. can attract bad actors, and we cannot guarantee that every person you meet will act in good faith.

We strongly encourage you to use common sense when arranging an in-person swap:

• Meet in a public place — a park, a front porch, a driveway, a coffee shop
• Meet during daylight hours when you can
• Bring a friend, or let someone know where you're going and when to expect you back
• Trust your gut — it's always okay to cancel or walk away if something feels off
• Don't share your home address, financial information, or identity documents with other users
• Report concerning behavior to [email protected] so we can investigate and, if needed, remove the user

Assumption of risk. By using rootr. to communicate with or meet other users, you acknowledge that you do so at your own risk and that you are solely responsible for your own safety and decisions.

Release. To the fullest extent allowed by law, you release SilvaByte, LLC, its owners, employees, and affiliates from any and all claims, demands, damages, losses, or liabilities — known or unknown, in contract, tort, or otherwise — arising out of or related to the conduct of other users, whether online or in person. This includes but is not limited to bodily injury, emotional distress, harassment, fraud, theft, property damage, or worse.

10. Being a good neighbor

rootr. works because people show up honestly. Please:

• Be truthful about your plants — describe them accurately, note any issues
• Respond to swap requests and messages in good faith
• Don't use rootr. for commercial sales or business purposes
• Don't list anything that isn't a plant or plant-related item
• Treat other users with respect
• Don't try to game the system (fake accounts, spam interactions, etc.)

We reserve the right to suspend or remove accounts that violate these guidelines.

11. Location services

rootr. is location-based — that's the whole point. You grant us permission to use your device's location to show you nearby plants and show your plants to nearby users. You control your search radius in settings, and you can revoke location access through your device at any time (though the app won't be very useful without it).

12. Intellectual property

The rootr. name, logo, design, and app code belong to SilvaByte, LLC. You're welcome to use rootr. — that's what it's for — but please don't copy, modify, or distribute the app itself or its branding without our permission.

13. Disclaimers

rootr. is provided "as is." We work hard to keep things running smoothly, but we can't promise the app will always be available or bug-free. Specifically:

• We don't guarantee any particular plant's condition, identity, or suitability
• We're not responsible for interactions between users outside the app
• We don't guarantee that location data is perfectly accurate
• Service may be interrupted for maintenance or updates

14. Limitation of liability & indemnification

To the fullest extent allowed by law, SilvaByte, LLC and its owners, employees, and affiliates are not liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of or related to your use of rootr. — including but not limited to plant-related mishaps, failed swaps, hurt feelings when someone passes on your prized pothos, or the acts or omissions of any other user (whether occurring online or in person). See User interactions & in-person safety above for the specific release that applies to user-to-user conduct.

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless SilvaByte, LLC and its owners, employees, and affiliates from any third-party claims, damages, losses, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of your use of rootr., your content, your interactions with other users, or your violation of these terms.

15. Termination

You can delete your account at any time from within the app. This permanently removes your profile, plant listings, messages, and swap history. We may also suspend or terminate accounts that violate these terms.

16. Changes to these terms

We may update these terms from time to time. When we do, we'll update the date at the top of this page. If the changes are significant, we'll do our best to let you know through the app. Continued use of rootr. after changes means you accept the new terms.

17. Governing law

These terms are governed by the laws of the State of Florida, United States, without regard to conflict of law principles.

18. Get in touch

User Agreement

Last updated: July 5, 2026

Welcome to rootr. — the plant-swapping app for neighbors. By using rootr., you agree to this User Agreement. Please read it carefully.

1. Acceptance and updates

By downloading, accessing, or using rootr. in any way, you agree to be bound by this User Agreement. We may update this agreement from time to time. Your continued use of rootr. after any update constitutes your acceptance of the revised terms. We'll do our best to let you know when material changes are made, but it's your responsibility to check back periodically.

2. What rootr. is

rootr. is a platform that connects neighbors who want to swap, share, or give away plants and cuttings. We provide the space to discover nearby plants, chat with growers, and arrange exchanges. We're the matchmaker — the actual swap happens directly between you and your neighbor.

All swaps, trades, and exchanges are voluntary and take place directly between users. rootr. does not guarantee any exchange, warranty express or implied, or the condition of any plant or item exchanged through the platform.

3. Your responsibilities

You agree to use rootr. honestly, respectfully, and in a way that's good for the community. Specifically, you agree not to:

• Use rootr. for any illegal purpose or in violation of any applicable law
• Harass, threaten, or harm other users
• Post false, misleading, or fraudulent content
• Use rootr. to sell or solicit commercial transactions (unless we've explicitly enabled that feature)
• Attempt to access accounts or data that aren't yours
• Interfere with the operation of the platform

Any illegal activity is strictly prohibited and will result in immediate and permanent removal from rootr.

4. Payments and future features

rootr. is currently free to use. As the platform grows, we may introduce optional paid features, promotions, loyalty programs, or referral rewards. If rootr. ever facilitates payments or transactions between users, additional terms will apply and will be presented to you at that time.

5. Limitation of liability

rootr. is provided "as is." To the fullest extent permitted by law, rootr. (and its owners, employees, and partners) shall not be liable for any damages arising from your use of the platform, interactions with other users, or exchanges arranged through the app. You use rootr. at your own risk.

6. Dispute resolution and arbitration

Any dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to this User Agreement or your use of rootr. shall be resolved through binding arbitration, rather than in court. Arbitration will be conducted in Brevard County, Florida, under the rules of the American Arbitration Association (AAA). You agree to waive any right to a jury trial or to participate in a class action lawsuit.

This arbitration agreement does not prevent either party from seeking emergency injunctive relief in a court of competent jurisdiction to prevent irreparable harm.

7. Governing law

This User Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Florida, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

8. Contact

Questions about this agreement? Reach us at [email protected].

Community Etiquette

The unwritten rules, written down.

rootr. runs on trust between neighbors. This section isn't a legal contract — it's the etiquette that keeps the block generous, safe, and low-drama. Follow it and the whole thing runs itself.

Be honest about what you're sharing

Say what it is, when you got it, and any flaw worth knowing. "Pothos cutting, already rooted." "Sourdough discard, fed this morning." "Half a flat of strawberries, eat them soon." One honest line beats a polished listing every time. Never pass off something you wouldn't take yourself.

Food safety & the danger zone

For anything edible, keep it simple and safe. Unopened, in-date pantry surplus is always best. If you are sharing opened dry goods (like coffee beans, quinoa, flour, or spices), you must explicitly state that the item is opened, describe how it was stored (e.g., "stored in an airtight container"), and guarantee it is free of pests. Note any common allergens (nuts, dairy, gluten) that may have shared your kitchen space.

The Hard Line on Opened Items: You may never share opened wet goods, liquids, or perishables (no half-empty jars of sauce or leftover casseroles).

The Danger Zone: If an unopened item belongs in the fridge (like dairy or cut fruit), keep it there until the exact moment of handoff. Do not leave temperature-sensitive perishables sitting on a porch. Furthermore, if you are sharing homemade goods, it is your responsibility to ensure you are complying with your local Cottage Food Laws.

Keep handoffs safe and simple

Porch drops and public meetups exist so nobody has to invite a stranger inside. Meet in daylight or a public spot if you'd rather, bring a friend if it helps, and never feel obligated to share your exact address before you're comfortable. Label the box, name a pickup window, and close the loop with a quick "got it, thanks."

Don't resell the commons

rootr. is for re-homing real neighborhood surplus, not for stocking a resale operation. Take what you'll actually use, leave enough for the next neighbor, and don't scoop free listings to flip them. The commons only stays abundant if everyone treats it like a shared garden, not a warehouse.

Be kind, be reliable

Show up in the window you named. If plans change, send a message. Thank people. Assume good intent. A swap is a tiny act of trust between two households — treat every one like the start of a good neighborly habit, because it usually is.

When something goes wrong

Report anything unsafe, dishonest, or off inside the app, or email [email protected]. We'd rather hear about it early. Repeated bad-faith behavior gets an account removed — the block comes first.