Naware's Chemical-Free Weed Killer Tech Uses AI and Steam to Revolutionize Lawn Care
Naware, founded by Mark Boysen, has developed a chemical-free weed killing technology utilizing computer vision and steam. Motivated by health concerns related to groundwater chemicals, Boysen pivoted from lasers to steam after extensive prototyping. The system employs AI to identify weeds in real-time, even distinguishing them from grass (the 'green-on-green' problem). Attachments for mowers and tractors enable its use on lawns and golf courses, promising significant savings for customers by eliminating chemical and associated labor costs. Naware is seeking strategic partnerships and preparing for its first funding round.
Naware, founded by Mark Boysen, is pioneering a chemical-free approach to weed eradication, driven by the founder's personal experience with family cancer cases suspected to be linked to groundwater chemicals. Boysen's initial experiments with drone-mounted lasers proved impractical due to fire risks, leading to a period of trial-and-error with concepts like cryogenics. He eventually settled on steam as the core technology, which he showcased at TechCrunch Disrupt 2025.Naware's system integrates computer vision and artificial intelligence to precisely identify weeds amidst turf, a challenge known as the 'green-on-green' problem. This AI-powered identification is performed in real-time while the equipment moves, leveraging Nvidia GPUs. Once identified, weeds are killed using only vaporized water. The technology is designed to be versatile, attaching to existing equipment like mowers, tractors, or ATVs, making it adaptable for various landscapes including athletic fields and golf courses.Boysen claims Naware can save customers between $100,000 and $250,000 annually on chemical costs alone, plus additional savings on labor. The company is currently conducting paid pilot programs and has attracted interest from large equipment manufacturers, indicating potential for strategic partnerships. Naware's future growth strategy hinges on securing these partnerships, obtaining patents for its innovative technology, and successfully completing a significant fundraising round, moving beyond its bootstrapped origins to scale its impact on sustainable lawn care.
