Maintaining our routine and gardens amid our hectic schedules is rather challenging. But thanks to ESP32, we can now build an automated system that allows us to keep our gardens without continual human involvement in this day and age of science and technology. How is this made feasible? The development of IoT has made it possible for us to put up an ESP32-based smart garden.
The ESP32 is a versatile and efficient microcontroller that can connect to the internet and communicate via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi with other devices. In this post, we'll look at how to use IoT to develop automated plant care and how to monitor soil moisture levels. You will discover how to manage a working smart garden with the most miniature labor-intensive hand work.
So, without wasting any time, let's get started.
Components Required for ESP32 Smart Garden
The hardware and software components needed to build the smart gardens are listed below. The ESP32 microcontroller, with its enhanced capabilities and integrated connection, plays a vital role in the process.
Soil moisture sensors are used to measure the water content of the soil. They assist in checking and reminding when to water the plants. They are critical for environmental monitoring in the garden. Sensors such as the DHT11 or DHT22 must track what's happening in your garden. They also offer an update on the garden's temperature and humidity.
The next component is the relay module. A relay module manages high-power devices like solenoid control valves and water pumps. The relay module may be considered an actuator for the ESP32, which regulates when the irrigation system turns on and off. The next component is the power supply. A consistent and dependable power source is required to keep the ESP32 and all other components operational. The connection cables and breadboard are essential for evaluating and designing all functioning components.
Jumper wires are also an essential part of connecting the components. To write and upload the code to the ESP32, you must use software compatible with the programming environment, such as the Arduino IDE. The OLED screen or LCD shows the sensors and reads the system status. The final component is the water closures. This is necessary to safeguard the setup's electronic components from water damage.
Establishing the ESP32 Microcontroller
The project began with installing the Arduino IDE on the PC to write and upload code. Following the program's installation, the ESP32 board is added to the library and linked to the computer via a USB connection. A test sketches the setup to ensure it works properly, such as when the LED blinks. If the test sketch passes, the setup will function well; reinstalling the setup will solve the problem. The wiring diagram for correct wiring connects the moisture sensors and relay modules. The advanced sketch is uploaded to operate the relay module, read sensor data, and check that all components are functioning efficiently. The phase lays the groundwork for streamlining the garden operations.
Creating a Soil Moisture Monitoring System
The soil moisture monitoring system's critical component is monitoring the soil's water level and the garden's humidity and temperature. The sensors are attached to the ESP32, each performing a specific duty. The ESP32 is configured to read and transform sensor data into legible moisture level percentages.
The sensor reading is tuned for different types of soil. The sensor's data shows how damp the soil is, so water it as needed. As a result, the technology allows for real-time soil moisture monitoring, ensuring that the appropriate amount of water is applied to the plants.
Establishing Automated Irrigation
The ESP32 manages the water pumps and solenoid valve based on moisture levels, resulting in an automated irrigation system. Assembling the relay module and ESP32 completes the process. The water pump is then connected to the relay module. The ESP32 is then used to develop software that monitors soil moisture data from the sensors. When the moisture level drops, the ESP32 activates the relay, which turns on the pump.
When the moisture level reaches the appropriate level, the ESP32 switches off the relay. In this approach, the irrigation operation is immediately terminated. The setup ensures that the plants are watered without needing physical help.
Temperature and Humidity Sensors Integration
Temperature and humidity sensors are installed in smart gardens to monitor their humidity and temperature. The sensors used might be DHT11 or DHT22, linked to the ESP32. The entire method is carried out by following the manufacturer's user manual to connect the wires appropriately.
The ESP32 is configured to read sensor data and record real-time humidity and temperature readings. The data is then utilized to make modifications based on the requirements. Watering schedules are adjusted or monitored as needed. The technology improves the automated operations and productivity of the garden.
Designing a Smartphone App for Real-Time Monitoring
The smartphone application monitors all processes and tracks what is happening in your ESP smart garden. The application is downloaded via platforms like Flutter and React Native. It is a highly user-friendly application that displays all of the data from the mounted sensors.
You will receive updates on the current state of your garden on your smartphone. The application also includes a control for activating or deactivating the irrigation system. Without a doubt, the smartphone application replaces physical monitoring, guaranteeing that your garden is well-maintained and in good shape.
Conclusion
The ESP32 smart garden has replaced conventional gardening, transforming it into an automated system that provides excellent plant care. The ESP32 is configured, and several sensors are attached, including the relay module, soil moisture sensor, and humidity temperature sensor. Then, a smartphone application is created to monitor all the data collected from the sensor. The concept improves plant care and provides a sustainable option for gardening lovers.
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