The Integration Of Internet Of Things (Iot) And Soil Nutrients Monitoring To Enhance Organic Farming: A Case Study Of Casad Enterprise Farm

Abstract

Background: Agriculture is the primary occupation for a vast majority of the African population, with crop production playing a crucial role in regional economies. However, crop yields often suffer due to improper fertilization practices, either from overuse or underuse of fertilizers, leading to poor crop quality and soil degradation.

Objective: This study introduces an Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled soil testing system designed to monitor soil parameters efficiently, thereby facilitating optimal crop growth through precise nutrient management. The system aims to mitigate soil degradation and enhance crop health by providing targeted fertilization recommendations.

Methodology: The proposed system utilizes NPK sensors to measure the nutrient levels within the soil accurately. Data collected by these sensors are stored on the cloud for analysis. Based on this analysis, the system generates suggestions for suitable crops and required fertilizers. The system features a Wi-Fi module interfaced with an Arduino board for displaying test results and recommended crops on a web portal, which also provides detailed fertilizer guidance to farmers.

Results: The IoT-enabled soil testing system has demonstrated its ability to detect soil nutrient quality accurately, offering precise recommendations for nutrient application. By doing so, it supports the selection of appropriate crops and fertilization methods tailored to the specific needs of the soil, thereby contributing to sustainable farming practices and improved crop quality.

Conclusion: The study successfully developed and implemented a technology-driven solution for soil testing that addresses the challenges of soil infertility and suboptimal fertilization practices. This system stands as a valuable tool for farmers, providing actionable insights into soil health and nutrient management with the potential to revolutionize organic farming for future generations.