Abstract

Background & Objective: This paper presents a wireless sensor network for monitoring field parameters inside a low-cost polyhouse. The micro climate inside a polyhouse differs from that on the outside, which provides a favorable condition for unseasonal crops.

Methods: The physical parameters associated with the polyhouse’s microclimate were monitored by a reliable low-cost wireless sensor network, which in turn helps to take decisions for enhancing yield quality and quantity. Sensor network development, signal conditioning, calibration of the soil temperature measurement system and field experience of the installed system are discussed in this paper. The field parameters for the growing period of cucumber (Cucumis sativus) inside the polyhouse are provided in the paper.

Results & Conclusion: It showed significant variations in temperature, relative humidity and wind speed inside the polyhouse to that of the outside. It was also observed that soil temperature, soil moisture in mulched soil differed from that of the open condition. Enhancement of the crop yield was found for mulched soil.

Keywords: Field parameters, microclimate, polyhouse, sensor node, Wireless Sensor Network (WSN), Cucumis sativus.