Introduction
A Smart Irrigation System is an automated system designed to water plants and crops based on soil moisture levels. It conserves water by ensuring irrigation occurs only when necessary, improving efficiency in agriculture and gardening.
This project integrates sensors, microcontrollers, and automation techniques to provide an intelligent watering system.
Objective of the Project
- To automatically water plants based on soil moisture.
- To conserve water and prevent over-irrigation.
- To learn sensor interfacing and microcontroller programming.
- To implement IoT-based monitoring (optional).
Working Principle
The Smart Irrigation System works on soil moisture detection.
Step-by-Step Working
- Soil moisture sensor continuously monitors soil water content.
- When moisture falls below the threshold, the sensor sends a signal to Arduino.
- Arduino activates a water pump or solenoid valve.
- Pump supplies water until soil moisture reaches the desired level.
- The system stops watering automatically when soil is sufficiently moist.
Components Required
- Arduino Uno
- Soil Moisture Sensor
- Relay Module
- Water Pump / Solenoid Valve
- Jumper Wires
- Power Supply (5V / 12V depending on pump)
- Optional: LCD Display for real-time monitoring
Circuit Diagram
Connections
Soil Moisture Sensor:
VCC -> 5V
GND -> GND
AO -> A0 (Analog output to Arduino)
Relay Module:
IN1 -> D8 (Arduino)
VCC -> 5V
GND -> GND
Water Pump:
Connected through relay NO contact to power supply
Arduino Code for Smart Irrigation System
int soilSensor = A0;
int relayPin = 8;
int threshold = 500; // Adjust based on soil type
void setup() {
pinMode(relayPin, OUTPUT);
Serial.begin(9600);
}
void loop() {
int soilMoisture = analogRead(soilSensor);
Serial.print("Soil Moisture: ");
Serial.println(soilMoisture);
if (soilMoisture < threshold) {
digitalWrite(relayPin, HIGH); // Turn ON water pump
Serial.println("Water Pump ON");
} else {
digitalWrite(relayPin, LOW); // Turn OFF water pump
Serial.println("Water Pump OFF");
}
delay(1000); // Read sensor every 1 second
}
Code Explanation
- Soil moisture sensor reads moisture level.
- Arduino compares value with threshold.
- Relay activates water pump if soil is dry.
- Pump automatically stops when moisture is sufficient.
Advantages
- Saves water by preventing over-irrigation
- Fully automated and easy to use
- Reduces manual labor
- Ideal for farms and gardens
Applications
- Agricultural fields
- Home gardens
- Greenhouses
- Parks and public gardens
Future Enhancements
- IoT integration for remote monitoring via smartphone
- Weather prediction-based irrigation
- Multiple sensor zones for large fields
- Solar-powered water pump for eco-friendly operation
Conclusion
The Smart Irrigation System is an efficient and practical project that combines electronics and agriculture. It demonstrates real-world automation and sustainability, helping students learn about sensors, microcontrollers, and smart agriculture systems.
