DEVELOPMENT OF AN AFFORDABLE SMART FARMING SYSTEM FOR SMALL-SCALE AGRICULTURE

Agriculture serves as the foundation of global food security and is essential for meeting SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). Yet traditional farming faces growing threats from climate volatility, dwindling resources, and ecological damage. Current hydroponic methods, though effective in controlled settings, remain vulnerable to root diseases from fungal attacks that impair nutrient uptake. These systems also depend on unsustainable practices that exhaust growth mediums and create polluting nutrient runoff. Such shortcomings demonstrate the critical demand for more robust, eco-friendly farming alternatives. Emerging smart agriculture technologies present viable solutions through automated monitoring, precision resource delivery, and data- driven cultivation methods that could revolutionize food production while protecting our environment.To address these issues, this study presents a smart farming system that integrates real-time monitoring and automation to optimize water usage and pest control while minimizing environmental impact. The system is structured into two main components, namely the upper with middle, and lower sections. The upper section is crafted from wood with dimensions 63.5 cm length × 20 cm width and reinforced with corner brackets and angle bars to ensure stability. The 80 mm diameter PVC pipes, drilled with three 40 mm holes and secured with U-clamps, serve as plant growth channels. The middle section (63.5 cm × 40 cm × 90 cm) is strategically designed to maximize sunlight exposure, facilitating optimal photosynthesis. The lower section houses the water tank and water pump. Then, an array of sensors, including PIR motion detectors, soil moisture sensors, ultrasonic sensors, a buzzer, and temperature and humidity sensors, was inserted into specific locations in the system. This setup enables precise irrigation management when nutrient solution is delivered directly to plant roots through a precision drip irrigation system integrated within the PVC piping network. To prevent waterlogging and ensure optimal moisture levels, an overflow drainage hose redirects excess solution back to the storage tank. Additionally, soil moisture sensors provide secondary protection by automatically activating the irrigation system only when the growing medium’s water level drops below optimal levels. For comprehensive plant health monitoring, the system employs multiple sensors: ambient sensors track environmental conditions including temperature and humidity, while PIR motion detectors identify potential pest intrusions. When pests are detected, the system immediately alerts farmers through the Blynk mobile application, which features interactive controls allowing users to remotely activate deterrent measures such as an alarm buzzer. This integrated monitoring and response system ensures plants receive precisely what they need while minimizing manual intervention. Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity are continuously monitored with 99.9% accuracy, as validated through comparative testing with a local industry system setup. For practical validation, lettuce was successfully cultivated using the system and management and monitoring process was done using a smartphone only. This integrated monitoring and response system ensures plants receive precisely what they need while minimizing manual intervention. The system’s success demonstrates that advanced agricultural technology can be both accessible and cost-effective, bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern precision farming. By combining IoT-based automation with sustainable hydroponic practices, this smart farming model offers a scalable solution adaptable to diverse climates and crop varieties.