Greenhouse Automation Using Smart Tech -Watering, Ventilation, Lighting

Using smart technology in your greenhouse automates care and gives you greater control. It can monitor and manage watering, temperature, lighting, data logging and security for when you’re not around……..or when you are around

Soil Moisture & Automated Watering

• Install capacitive soil moisture sensors for each pot or bed.
• Connect these via an automation to a smart water controller or valve
• Set moisture thresholds so watering starts when the soil is dry
• Create watering zones to manage multiple areas
• Automated misting based on temperature to cool the greenhouse

Climate Control & Ventilation

• Use sensors to measure ambient temperature and humidity.
• Fit vents with thermal wax actuators or servo motors for automatic opening/closing.
• Install fans that switch on at high temperatures for airflow control.
• Log climate data and view it through dashboards for insights.

Grow Lights & Lighting Automation

• Add energy-efficient LED grow lights for low light conditions.
• Place lights on smart plugs or relays controlled by timers or light sensors.
• Tailor lighting schedules to conserve energy and simulate natural daylight cycles.

Data Logging & Monitoring

• Record readings for temperature, humidity, soil moisture and light levels.
• Use visual dashboards to analyse growing conditions.

Pest Detection

• Smart traps can be used to catch unwanted guests, for example smart mouse trap
• Motion sensors can be connected with audio or visual alarms to scare of foxes etc

Smart Greenhouse Power & Connectivity

• Your greenhouse doesn’t need mains power as many smart devices are battery powered. Smart hubs are usually mains powered, but they can be located where there is mains power. As long as they are in range of the greenhouse smart devices.
• Some devices are designed for long range use. For example, YoLink products use LoRa which has a wireless range of up to 1/4 mile.
• If mains power is required, consider using a solar panel and battery. Most mains powered devices require a small amount of power, which solar and a battery should be able to provide.

Benefits of Going Smart

• Conserves water by watering only when needed.
• Maintains stable conditions for healthier plant growth.
• Provides real-time data and insights into plant performance.
• Enhances security, especially when you’re away.
• Scalable, grow your smart greenhouse system as required.

Smart technology needn’t be expensive or complicated. With a few sensors, intelligent controllers, and careful planning around power and connectivity, your greenhouse can operate reliably and efficiently.