Low-cost smart soil monitoring for real-time moisture sensing to optimize urban irrigation
Develop low-cost sensor technology for real-time soil moisture monitoring to optimize irrigation in urban food production. Enable water conservation and improved plant health by alerting when growing media approaches critical dryness levels. Provide a scalable sensing approach for diverse growing environments, supported by dashboard-based moisture tracking to improve operational decision-making.
Overview
A smart soil monitoring system provides real-time moisture data for urban agriculture. The technology targets water wastage common in above-ground and container-based vegetable production. By alerting when growing media approaches critical dryness levels, it supports precise irrigation to conserve water and improve plant health. The approach aims to reduce labor and runoff while enabling better day-to-day decisions for growers.
Technical specifications
- Real-time soil moisture monitoring: Sensors deliver instant moisture readings to a personal device to support timely irrigation actions.
- Scalable system: Additional sensors can be added to support gardens of varying sizes and growing setups.
- Compatibility with common growing media: Designed to work with container and raised-bed growing media to support water retention and plant growth.
- Dashboard integration: An accompanying data dashboard supports comprehensive moisture level tracking and management.
- Controlled trials and field testing: Includes greenhouse trials and field testing with local nurseries to refine sensor performance and establish effective moisture thresholds.
Technology readiness level
This sensor-based technology is at Technology Readiness Level 6, indicating a prototype demonstration in a relevant environment. Ongoing trials and user feedback will guide further development and optimization for commercial deployment.
About Tennessee State University
Tennessee State University conducts applied and fundamental research across agriculture and environmental sciences, engineering and computer science, education and learning sciences, and health and behavioral studies. Its land‑grant programs include agricultural research and Cooperative Extension with long‑running USDA‑supported projects in plant science, urban agriculture, food safety, and natural resource management. Notable research units include the College of Agriculture’s research programs and extension centers, the Center of Excellence for Learning Sciences, and the Center of Excellence in Information Systems, along with specialized facilities such as the Otis L. Floyd Nursery Research Center. TSU investigators regularly secure funding from federal agencies including USDA‑NIFA, NSF, NIH, and the State of Tennessee, often in partnership with regional industry and community organizations. Technology transfer and outreach emphasize practical solutions in sustainable agriculture, biotechnology, data and information systems, and workforce development for Middle Tennessee and beyond.
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