Integration of IoT Technology in Hydroponic Systems for Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity in Small-Scale Farming

Abstract As global population growth and decreasing arable land create a demand for increased food production, hydroponic farming is gaining popularity due to its numerous advantages over traditional agriculture. However, high costs and limited accessibility of commercial hydroponic systems remain a challenge for small-scale farmers, especially in developing countries. This research paper presents a novel hydroponic system that leverages the Internet of Things (IoT) technology to enhance small-scale agriculture through the monitoring of crucial parameters such as electrical conductivity (EC), pH levels, temperature, and humidity. The system integrates wireless sensor nodes that send data to a central control unit for real-time monitoring and adjustments. A comparative analysis between a semi-automatic control system and a conventional control system demonstrated that the semi-automatic system resulted in enhanced plant growth, especially in Red Cos lettuce, leading to increased yields. The research emphasises the significant potential of intelligent hydroponic systems in revolutionising conventional farming techniques and providing valuable support to small-scale farmers.