How to build a smart, autonomous greenhouse yourself

Advantages and disadvantages of smart greenhouses

A DIY smart greenhouse is a reality for many Russian gardeners. This is because the Arduino Uno-powered design with a servo motor offers many advantages, the most important of which is its ability to significantly simplify a farmer's life. This means that by growing crops in a self-contained home greenhouse, you spend significantly less time and effort on tending to the plants.

You can make your greenhouse smart even after it's already built. You won't need to do anything significant during the design stage. That's why if you already have a greenhouse in your backyard, it's never too late to start improving it. The only drawback to this type of utility room is the considerable cost of implementing such a plan. However, the result will pay off all the money spent.

Video: "Self-Heating Winter Greenhouse"

This video will show you what a high-quality self-heating winter greenhouse looks like.

Design Features

A smart greenhouse is sure to be a source of pride for any modern gardener, as it will take the cultivation of herbs and vegetables during unfavorable periods to a whole new level. To consider your greenhouse structure advanced, it must meet the following basic specifications:

• It's important to maintain an optimal temperature inside the structure. To achieve this, a smart greenhouse has an autonomous ventilation system that helps control the process.
• drip irrigation also needs to be made autonomous;
• To prevent the soil from becoming depleted over time, it is necessary to consider a soil mulching system.

A smart greenhouse built by yourself can be realized if you follow three basic requirements. If desired, you can equip your greenhouse with various technological advances. However, you can achieve the desired results in growing greenery in a smart greenhouse without spending a fortune.

Classification

Before you start building your own smart greenhouse, you should consider the key types. This will help you evaluate their key advantages and determine which type of greenhouse is best for you. Common types of smart greenhouses include the following:

• Autonomous. The operation of this system is supported solely by solar or thermal energy;
• Energy-dependent. All basic components of the greenhouse are connected to the power grid, which is where the structure's power comes from.

Kurdyumov's greenhouse is considered an excellent example of an energy-efficient greenhouse. It is highly efficient, but at the same time, its continuous operation requires a significant amount of electricity, and a sudden outage would negatively impact the plants.

How to make a smart greenhouse

First, you need to acquire the "box" itself, meaning you can build a greenhouse or purchase one ready-made. This plan won't require a lot of investment, as the main focus will be on equipping the greenhouse with smart apps. Once your structure is ready, it's time to begin further improvements.

Automatic ventilation

An Arduino-powered greenhouse must first and foremost be equipped with an automatic ventilation system. This is accomplished using specialized hydraulic units. Most Russian gardeners prefer to purchase such a device ready-made, but it's also possible to build one yourself.

To do this, you'll need two containers filled with water and connected by a hose. They should be placed inside and outside the structure, as they will act as levers, alternately opening and closing the ventilation window. This system will allow you to maintain an optimal temperature in the greenhouse without constant intervention.

Drip irrigation

A greenhouse controller, like a hydraulic cylinder, is necessary for setting up an autonomous drip irrigation system. Essentially, this device connects to your greenhouse's existing ventilation system. As a result, as soon as the room temperature rises, a valve automatically opens, supplying water to the greenhouse. Remember that a smart home greenhouse powered by Arduino will function fully only if properly equipped with the necessary accessories.

Mulching the soil

According to its creator, Kurdyumov's greenhouse must be filled with mulched soil. Many Russian gardeners cover the soil with plastic film in the fall to prevent it from drying out. However, modern covering materials are now available. This way, you won't have to worry about depleting the soil in your home greenhouse.

Additional features

Arduino is the home greenhouse of the future, which any domestic gardener can set up in their garden. While the basic Arduino design doesn't necessarily require power, adding additional features requires electricity. For example, an automatic heater equipped with a special controller is popular among experienced gardeners.

Think through your future design, and then confidently begin implementing your own plan. Make your greenhouse truly practical and modern.