In an exciting leap for urban agriculture, a team led by Mulkan Iskandar Nasution from the Jurusan Fisika, Fakultas Sains dan Teknologi, Universitas Islam Negeri Sumatera Utara has unveiled a groundbreaking automatic watering system tailored specifically for hydroponic plants. This innovative solution, powered by solar energy and the Internet of Things (IoT), could very well reshape how we think about farming in cities where space is at a premium.
Hydroponics, the practice of growing plants without soil, has been gaining traction, particularly in densely populated urban areas. The challenge, however, has been the manual control of these systems, which can be labor-intensive and prone to human error. “We wanted to create a system that not only simplifies the process but also enhances efficiency,” Nasution explained. “Our automatic irrigation system takes the guesswork out of managing nutrient levels and pH, making it easier for anyone to grow healthy plants, regardless of their experience.”
At the heart of this system is an EPS32 microcontroller that integrates various sensors, including voltage, current, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), and pH sensors. These components work together to monitor the essential conditions for plant growth. If the nutrient levels dip below 1000 ppm, the nutrient pump kicks in to deliver the necessary sustenance. Conversely, if levels exceed 1400 ppm, the water pump activates to ensure the plants aren’t overwhelmed. This smart management not only helps maintain optimal growing conditions but also conserves resources, a critical factor in sustainable agriculture.
The system’s remote monitoring capability via the Blynk application allows users to keep tabs on their hydroponic setup right from their smartphones. “Imagine being able to manage your garden while you’re at work or on vacation,” Nasution added. “This technology opens up new avenues for urban dwellers to engage with agriculture without the need for extensive space or constant supervision.”
The implications of this research extend far beyond the backyard garden. As cities continue to expand and agricultural land diminishes, such innovations could play a vital role in food security. By making hydroponic systems more accessible and manageable, we could see a rise in urban farming initiatives, potentially transforming rooftops and balconies into productive green spaces.
Published in ‘Buletin Fisika’, or the ‘Physics Bulletin’, this research not only highlights the ingenuity of young scientists but also underscores the commercial potential of integrating technology with agriculture. As more urbanites embrace the idea of growing their own food, solutions like Nasution’s could very well be at the forefront of a new agricultural revolution, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.