This sensor is inserted into the medium (soil, rockwool, coco, etc) and gives an extremely accurate soil moisture reading. Currently the software is setup to output a 0-100% soil moisture reading. This reading can be calibrated for your specific soil so that 100% is your soil fully saturated and 0% being completely dry.

This sensor is unique and very well suited for indoor growing because it is impervious to the waters salinity (nutrient/salt content). In other words the nutrient solutions strength does not effect the reading. Other soil moisture sensors readings are effected by different nutrient levels. Meaning it will see the soil being wetter when being fed with a more concentrated nutrient solution and dryer when plain water is used. While useful for farming these types of sensors aren't great for potted plants.

One thing to note is that some mediums such as lava rock and clay pellets or other mediums that have large gaps of air space between the rocks will have reduced sensitivity particularly when near the low end of the scale (soil is getting dry). This effects the level of accuracy the sensor provides.

Network Current Usage: 15 mA

Common Uses

The software can be setup to turn on a pump for a set period of time when the soil moisture falls below a desired moisture level for a period of time. Our tests have shown this to have a significant benefit on the plants. By preventing over watering and under watering by only providing water when the plants need it, healthy growth is easy. Even the best growers will water a bit early or bit late out of necessity.

In a flood and drain hydroponic system the soil moisture sensor can be used to control how often a flood occurs. As the plants get larger and use more water the frequency that the system floods the trays is automatically increased. Besides the size of the plants the temperature and humidity in the growing area will also greatly effect the amount of water the plants use and the frequency that they will need to be flooded. Hot days will see more floods then cool ones.

The software can be setup to send a text message, email or phone call when the plants are ready to be watered.

The software can be setup to alert of a failed pump in aeroponic, recirculating bucket and DWC type systems. And most other growing systems as well.

There are many more uses. Email us if you find more uses for this versatile device.