Andrew Graff

Andrew Graff is the founder of PlantAmika, a Laguna Beach-based company that makes pleasantly scented soil additives designed to nourish plants and enhance indoor and outdoor spaces. He called into How I Built This seeking advice on fundraising timing for his early-stage startup.

PlantAmika began as a love letter to plants, the coast, and the sensory richness of outdoor life. Created in Laguna Beach, it was inspired by the beauty of the California coast—salt air, sculptural succulents, warm canyon breezes, and native flora. After years of development and collaboration with scientists, Andrew created a soil-enhancing formula that goes beyond basic plant care.

The product is a slow-release, pleasantly scented soil additive made with a proprietary blend of chitosan and sodium alginate—natural ingredients sourced from the ocean. These marine-derived compounds help plants thrive by improving soil structure and nutrient availability while surrounding them with a gentle, lasting fragrance.

Andrew holds a patent for his scented soil additive in dissolving composition, demonstrating his commitment to scientific innovation and product quality. He is passionate about bringing beauty, sustainability, and science together to create a new standard in plant care.