An IoT-based Real-Time Soil Monitoring with Commentary on the Crop Fertilization System

Abstract

This study emphasizes the importance of an iterative, improvement-based soil quality monitoring system. Improving our ability to detect and avoid soil desertification requires a plan to sustain and enhance these biological systems over the long run. Predicting soil health and providing a comprehensive, real-time understanding of soil conditions across any given region requires accurate monitoring of key soil characteristics, including temperature, moisture, pH,  and nutrient levels (NPK). Because of this, cutting-edge technical solutions must be implemented to increase the crop yield. Plants rely on NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) for vital nutrients that promote healthy development, strong roots, and general well-being. However, the availability of these nutrients depends on soil pH. Careful examination of the soil is required before planting any crop. The proposed system can monitor soil pH, NPK, Temperature, and Humidity.

Farmers can ascertain the appropriateness of management using this method. The Arduino initializes all peripherals, such as the LCD, RS485 modules, serial communication ports, and sensor libraries, when the system is powered on, enabling continuous data collection. Monitored data can be viewed on the LCD on the spot, and it is collected in the cloud in parallel via an IoT module. In this article, soil samples from Thiruvallur district, collected from many terrestrial and terrace gardens and from the main seven places, are tested using the proposed soil monitoring hardware, and the data are stored in the cloud using IoT for future Work on implementing AI-based prediction methods. Profitable crops and mainstays make up the bulk of Thiruvallur's agrarian output. A soil EC value below 1.0 dS/m indicates that the soil is not exposed to salt. For the most part, Thiruvallur soils are suitable for planting. Soil testing is essential before planting any crop. Soil testing helps farmers identify which crops will thrive in a given area and creates a personalized fertilization strategy.