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How to Install the Beta

Pollinator Patch is free during the beta. Here's how to get started on your device.

Download the beta

iPhone (iOS), via TestFlight

Apple's official app for testing new apps. Free.

Android, via Firebase App Distribution

Google's tool for sharing test versions of apps. Free.

First time? Scroll down for step-by-step instructions.

iPhone (iOS)

The iPhone beta is distributed through TestFlight, Apple's official app for testing new apps before they launch. It's free and made by Apple.

  1. 1

    Tap the TestFlight download link

    You'll receive this link in your welcome email after signing up. If you don't have TestFlight installed, your iPhone will prompt you to download it from the App Store first (it's free).

  2. 2

    Tap “Accept” to install

    Once TestFlight opens, you'll see Pollinator Patch. Tap Accept and then Install.

  3. 3

    Open Pollinator Patch

    The app will appear on your home screen. You can also open it from inside TestFlight.

See a screen asking for a code?

You can ignore it. Our beta uses a public link, so no code is needed. Just tap “Accept” to continue. The code field is for a different type of TestFlight invite.

Android

The Android beta is distributed through Firebase App Distribution, Google's tool for sharing test versions of apps directly. No Play Store listing needed during the beta.

  1. 1

    Tap the download link

    Use the link above or the one in your welcome email. It'll open Firebase App Distribution in your browser.

  2. 2

    Sign in and accept the invite

    Sign in with your Google account and accept the tester invitation.

  3. 3

    Allow the install

    Your phone may ask you to allow installs from this source. That's normal. Tap Allow or Settings > Allow from this source.

  4. 4

    Download and open

    Download the app and open it. Pollinator Patch will appear on your home screen.

What you can do in the beta

Pollinator Patch app showing the Explore tab with native plant recommendations

Look up native plants and butterflies for your region

Learn about HOA-conscious design: borders, heights, maintenance cues

Get a personalized garden plan for your yard

Share feedback through in-app surveys. Your input shapes what gets built

Built for homeowners everywhere. Beta starting in Texas, expanding to other regions.

Beta FAQ

Is the beta free?

Yes, completely free. No credit card, no trial period. It's free while we're building.

Is it safe to install?

Yes. TestFlight is Apple's official testing platform. It's made by Apple and used by thousands of app developers. Firebase App Distribution is Google's equivalent for Android. Both are standard, trusted tools.

What is TestFlight?

TestFlight is Apple's free app for testing new apps before they launch on the App Store. You install it once, then use it to download beta apps like Pollinator Patch.

What is Firebase App Distribution?

It's Google's tool for sharing test versions of Android apps directly with testers. It installs the app on your phone without needing a Play Store listing. You'll sign in with your Google account to accept the invite.

It's asking for a code (iPhone). What do I do?

Ignore it. Our beta uses a public link, so no code is needed. Just tap “Accept” to continue. The code field is for a different type of TestFlight invite.

My phone says “install from unknown source” (Android). Is that OK?

Yes, that's normal. Because the beta isn't on the Play Store yet, Android asks you to confirm you want to install it. Tap Allow. This is standard for any app distributed outside the Play Store.

How do I report bugs or give feedback?

Reply to any email from us, or use the short surveys built into the app. We read everything.

Will I lose my data when the full app launches?

We'll do our best to carry your data forward, but during the beta things may change. If a reset ever happens, we'll let you know ahead of time.

How do I get updates?

TestFlight (iPhone) and Firebase App Distribution (Android) will notify you when a new version is available. Just tap update.

Who can join the beta?

Anyone with an iPhone or Android phone. Sign up below and you'll get download links right away.

Don't have a download link yet?

Sign up and we'll send you the link right away.

Sign up to get links

Having trouble? Email us at thepollinatorpatchgarden@gmail.com