QUEZON DISTRICT

QUEZON NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water System: Innovative Farming
Scheme

A Research

Presented to the Teachers of

Quezon National High School
Senior High School Department
Alunan, Quezon, Isabela

_______________

In Partial Fulfilment

Of the Subject Requirement for

Practical Research 2

ARMOGELA, LESTER JOHN E.

BALLOD, NOVALYN W.
BILAGOT, WALTER C.
BOCALES, HOWARD DALE
KANANI, MAKKI B.
PANISIGAN, KIER ACE L.
SALVADOR, JHASPER P.

(April, 2023

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APPROVAL SHEET
This thesis titled “SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR AND AUTOMATED
WATER SYSTEM: INNOVATIVE FARMING SCHEME” prepared and
submitted by Lester John E. Armogela, Novalyn W. Ballod, Walter C.
Bilagot, Howard Dale Bocales, Makki B. Kanani, Kier Ace L. Panisigan,
Jhaspher P. Salvador, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for Practical
Research 2, is hereby recommended for Oral Examination.

______________________ REIN PAUL P. TOMAS,

Date Subject Teacher

Approved by the Tribunal on Oral Examination %.

JERRYPOL C. PALMA
Chairman

MARIBETH G. BAUTISTA AIREEN JOYCE C. MENDOZA

Member Member

___________________________ ___________________________
Member Reader/Critic

Accepted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for Practical

Research 2 Grade 12 of the Senior High School Curriculum.

_____________________ RUSHEL A. LAZARO, PhD

Date Principal III

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Acknowledgement

The researchers extend their gratitude to those who contributed to the

completion of the research.

Quezon National High School is acknowledged for providing a learning

opportunity that facilitated the development of valuable life lessons,

including patience, perseverance, teamwork, resilience, cooperation, and the

relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Sir Joel Antipolo, and Ma'am Rushel Lazaro, school principal, for the

unwavering support and guidance whose leadership played a vital role in the

research's success.

Sir Rein Paul Tomas, for providing invaluable guidance, support, advice,

comments, suggestions, and provisions that contributed to the completion

and success of the study. It was a great privilege and honor to work and

study under their guidance.

To Sir Teejay Ramos, for his invaluable contribution to the programming of

our product. His guidance and support significantly influenced the

research's success. We appreciate Sir Teejay and the expertise he brought to

the researchers.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PRELIMINARIES PAGE
TITLE PAGE............................................................................................. i
APPROVAL SHEET .................................................................................. ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT............................................................................. iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................. iv
ABSTRACT............................................................................................... v
CHAPTER
1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
Background of the Study ................................................................ 1
Conceptual Framework................................................................... 2
Statement of the Problem…………………………………………………….5
Scope and Delimitation................................................................... 5
Significance of the Study ................................................................ 6
Definition of Terms…………………………………………………………….6

2 REVIEW OF RELATED STUDIES AND LITERATURE

Soil ................................................................................................. 8
Soil Moisture .................................................................................. 9
Problems Regarding Soil Moisture .................................................. 9
Effects of Lack of Moisture on Crop Yields ...................................... 12
Soil Moisture Sensor....................................................................... 13
Traditional Ways of Checking Soil Moisture .................................... 14

3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Design ............................................................................. 19
Locale of the Study ......................................................................... 19
Materials and Equipment ............................................................... 20
Research Procedure ........................................................................ 22
Research Flowchart ........................................................................ 23
Statistical Analysis ......................................................................... 24

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4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Result and Discussion .................................................................... 25

5 SUMMARIES OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND

RECOMMENDATIONS
Summary of Findings ..................................................................... 28
Conclusion ..................................................................................... 29
Recommendations .......................................................................... 30
REFERENCES .......................................................................................... 31

APPENDICES
A. Documentation.......................................................................... viii

List of Tables

Table Page

1 Soil Moisture Readings Threshold ……………………………………….. 23

2 Performance of Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water Sytem

in Terms of Accuracy in Detecting Soil Moisture ….………………… 25

3 Performance of Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water Sytem

in Terms of Water Consumption and Efficiency …………..……….… 26

4 Performance of Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water Sytem

in Terms of Power Requirement …………………………………........... 26

5 Dimensions of the Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water

Sytem in Terms of Power Requirement …………………………........... 27

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List of Figures

Figure Page

1 A paradigm showing the IPO (Input, Process, Output)

of the study ……………………….……………………………………… 4

2 Prototype of Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated

Water System ……………………………………………………………. 19

3 Flowchart of Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated

Water System ……………………………………………………………. 23

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ABSTRACT

Title: SOIL MOISTURE SENSOR AND AUTOMATED WATER

SYSTEM: INNOVATIVE FARMING SCHEME

Researcher: Armogela, Lester John E.

Ballod, Novalyn W.
Bilagot, Walter C.
Bocales, Howard Dale
Kanani, Makki B.
Panisigan, Kier Ace L.
Salvador, Jhasper P.
Institution: Quezon National High School

Adviser: Rein Paul P. Tomas

In daily operations related to farming or gardening, watering is the

most important practice and intensive task. No matter whichever weather it

is, either too hot and dry or too cloudy and wet, you want to be able to

control the amount of water that reaches your plants. The study

demonstrates the efficient use of soil moisture sensor and automated water

system for the traditional agriculture. For implementation of automatic plant

watering system, we have used combination of pipes and pump/motor. It

shows the use of Arduino UNO, Relays and soil moisture sensors, monitored

and controlled smart irrigation systems. The study utilized an experimental

design to compare the efficiency of soil moisture sensor and automated

water system in regulating soil moisture. The findings of the study showed

the benefits of such a device, it can be concluded that the Soil Moisture

Sensor and Automated Water System has been developed and tested

successfully and found to function automatically. The researchers expect

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that through this prototype, everyone can enjoy farming without the stress of

watering or forgetting to water our plants.

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Chapter I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

I. INTRODUCTION

Soil moisture is a significant condition for plant growth. Too much or

too little water can affect many aspects of plant growth. Lack of moisture is a

common problem in the municipality of Quezon, Isabela. Humid air is pretty

common which makes crops and farms face some problems that come with

the dryness of soil which includes increased pests and rotting of crops. An

automated water system is essential and is a great addition to farmer’s

equipment. In addition to a water system a Soil Moisture Sensor is used to

detect soil moisture condition and avoid over moisturizing the soil and

causing further damage. According to the Department of Agriculture (DA),

agricultural activity is greatly benefited by the machine as soil moisture is

critical for agricultural productivity as it affects health and growth of crops.

According to DA more than 40% of the Philippines agricultural land is

currently degraded, with soil moisture being one of the main factors

contributing to this problem. Another problem is Climate Change, according

to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change many regions around the

world, specifically the Southeast Asian countries are already experiencing

more frequent and severe droughts as a result of climate change. Water

scarcity, according to the World Wildlife Fund, more than 2 billion people

around the world currently live in water-stressed regions, with limited access

to freshwater resources. An automated water system plays a critical role in

regulating water availability and quality, and as a result, the depletion of soil

moisture can contribute to water scarcity.

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The traditional irrigation methods used in agriculture such as flood and

furrow irrigation have proven to be inefficient and wasteful, leading to water

scarcity, soil degradation, and reduced agricultural productivity. These

methods lead to over-irrigation, which results in waterlogging, leaching of

nutrients and soil erosion. Under-irrigation on the other hand, can lead to

water stress, reduced yields, and crop failure. According to the Department

of Agriculture they estimated that 60% of irrigated crops are either over-

irrigated or under-irrigated (DA, 2018).

Soil moisture sensors and automated water systems offer an innovative

solution for enhanced agricultural productivity and water management.

These technologies have the potential to improve water use efficiency, reduce

water waste, and mitigate the impacts of drought and climate change.

However, the adoption of these technologies requires significant investment

and technical expertise. Policy makers, farmers, and other stakeholders

must work together to overcome the barriers to adoption and ensure the

widespread implementation of these technologies. The research paper

concludes with a call to action for stakeholders to prioritize the adoption of

soil moisture sensors and automated water systems for sustainable

agriculture and water management.

II. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

The integration of a soil moisture sensor and automated water system

can greatly improve irrigation practices and lead to significant benefits to

farmers. In a study conducted by S. K. Singh, V. K. Singh, R. K. Srivastava,

and A. K. Singh (2019), in which they developed an automated irrigation

system using a soil moisture sensor to monitor the moisture content of the

soil and control irrigation based on the water needs of crops. The result of

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their study showed that soil moisture sensor-based irrigation systems

improved crop yields and water use efficiency compared to traditional

methods. According to the Plant Water Stress Theory by M. S. Khan and S.

Mobin (2021), it states that plants need water for growth and development.

When a plant experiences water stress, they undergo a series of

physiological and biochemical changes to cope up with the stress. These

changes may include reduced stomatal conductance, or the closure of leaf

pores to prevent water loss through transpiration, decreased leaf growth and

alterations in root growth and development, which leads to permanent

damage to plant tissues and reduced plant growth. Moreover, according to

the water conservation theory introduced by T. Oweis and A. Hachum

(2012), it asserts that water is a limited resource that must be conserved

and used efficiently to meet the increasing demand for water in agriculture.

The water conservation theory is highly relevant to the use of Soil Moisture

Sensors (SMS) and Automated Water System (AWS) in agriculture. These

devices are designed to provide real-time information on soil moisture levels

and automate the delivery of water to the crops, which help optimize water

use efficiency and reduce water waste.

RESEARCH PARADIGM
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

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Materials needed: Procurement of Materials -
-Soil Moisture Sensor Collect all the components,
-Pipe/Water hose then the assembly for the
-Electric Supply Soil Moisture Sensor
device will start.
-Water Pump and Automated Water
-Electric Tape Assembly - The soil System
-Microcontroller moisture sensor should be
-Relay Module connected to the
microcontroller, which will
process data and trigger the
water system based on the
moisture level readings.

Coding - After assembling

the device, we will program
the microcontroller to collect
and process data, this
allows the water pump to be
triggered based on moisture
level.

Field Testing – Test the

device and the water system
to ensure they operate
reliably and accurately.

The model shows the different variables which are believed is needed to

create the device. The input includes all the materials needed for the

building of the device to start. The process is composed of all the steps

required in conducting the research which include procurement of materials,

assembly, coding and field testing. The output of the study is the functional

soil moisture sensor and automated water system.

III. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

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This study aims to construct a soil moisture sensor with an automated

water system to develop a new approach to agriculture. Specifically, it aims

to answer the following questions:

1. What is the performance of the Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated

Water System in terms of:

A. Accuracy in Detecting Moisture

B. Repeatability

C. Response Time

D. Water Consumption

2. Dimensions of the Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water System

in terms of:

A. Power Requirements

B. Maintenance

IV. SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

The study aims to investigate the effectiveness and potential benefits of

using such a system for plant growth and water management. The study

aims to determine if the use of the soil moisture sensor and automated water

system leads to better plant growth and increased crop yields. The

respondents would most likely be the users of the system; their role may

involve giving feedback and insights on the effectiveness and ease of use of

the system. The study can be conducted anytime, depending on the

availability of resources, equipment and suitable crops. The study may be

conducted on a farm or in an agricultural research lab.

V. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The following are beneficiaries of our study:

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Farmers – Farmers could benefit from the study by learning about the

benefits of using the soil moisture sensor and automated water system to

improve crop yield, water use and reduce labor cost.

Agricultural Researchers – Agricultural researchers could benefit from this

study by gaining insights on its effectiveness, which could inform future

researchers.

Home Gardeners – Home Gardeners can benefit from this study by learning

about the potential benefits of a soil moisture system and automated water

system to reduce water waste in their own garden.

Policy Makers – This study could help policy makers by allowing them to

learn about the benefits of using a soil moisture sensor and automated

water system to inform and make policy decisions related to agriculture.

Researchers – By conducting a study on this topic, the researcher would be

given an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the

field of agriculture.

VI. DEFINITION OF TERMS

For better understanding of the study, the following terms are defined:

Soil moisture sensors and automated water systems are technologies

used in agriculture and landscaping to monitor and control moisture level

and the amount of water provided to plants. Understanding these terms is

important to avoid misunderstandings and provide clear definitions.

Soil moisture sensor: A device used to measure moisture content of the

soil.

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Automated water system: A system that controls the watering of the plants

base on the soil moisture sensor’s readings.

Water Stress: A condition in which plants do not receive enough water,

resulting in reduced crop yield

Microcontroller: The device that processes information from the soil

moisture sensor and activates the automated water system.

Irrigation: The process of providing water to plants through artificial means,

such as through automated water systems.

Threshold: The pre-set moisture level at which the automated water system

will activate.

Data Logging: The process of recording and storing data from the soil

moisture sensors for future analysis.

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Chapter II

REVIEW OF RELATED STUDIES AND LITERATURE

Soil

Soil is a complex and dynamic mixture of organic matter, minerals,

gases, liquids, and organisms that plays a critical role in supporting life on

Earth. In this paper, we review the key components of soil and their

interactions, as well as the essential roles that soil plays in terrestrial

ecosystems. According to the Department of Agriculture (DA) soil is

composed of a complex mixture of organic matter, minerals, gasses, liquids,

and organisms that interact to support plant growth and other ecosystem

functions. Organic matter provides a critical source of nutrients for plants

and soil organisms, while minerals such as clay and sand provide physical

support and regulate water and nutrient availability. Soil gasses, such as

oxygen and carbon dioxide, are essential for respiration and photosynthesis,

while soil liquids, such as water, transport nutrients and support soil

organisms.

One of the key factors that determines the health and productivity of

soil is its moisture content. Soil moisture, the amount of water present in

soil, is essential for supporting plant growth and soil organisms. The

availability of soil moisture can be influenced by a variety of factors,

including climate, soil texture, topography, and land use. Understanding the

role of soil moisture in soil health is critical for managing soils effectively and

sustainably.

Soil Moisture

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Soil moisture refers to the amount of water present in soil, typically

measured as a percentage of the soil's total volume. Soil moisture plays a

critical role in supporting plant growth and soil health, as it provides the

necessary water and nutrients for plants and soil organisms to thrive.

The amount of soil moisture present in a given location can vary

greatly depending on a number of factors, including climate, soil texture,

topography, and land use. In general, soils in areas with high rainfall tend to

have higher moisture levels, while soils in arid or semi-arid regions tend to

be drier.

Understanding and managing soil moisture is important for a variety

of reasons, including optimizing crop production, reducing erosion and

nutrient leaching, and mitigating the impacts of drought and other climate-

related stressors. One common way of measuring soil moisture is through

the use of soil moisture sensors, which can provide accurate and timely data

on soil moisture levels to help guide management decisions. Additionally, the

use of irrigation systems, cover cropping, and reduced tillage can all help to

improve soil moisture levels and support healthy soils.

Problems regarding soil moisture

Soil moisture plays a crucial role in plant growth and soil health, as it

affects the availability of water and nutrients for plants and soil

microorganisms. However, excessive watering or over moisturizing of soil can

have negative effects on soil physical properties and crop yield. In this study,

the researchers aimed to investigate the effects of over moisturizing on soil

physical properties and crop yield in a field experiment.

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According to a study conducted by N. M. Ehsan, S. M. Moniruzzaman,

M. M. Rahman, and M. M. Hossain (2016), over moisturizing of soil, which

involves the application of excessive water to the soil, can have negative

effects on soil health and crop productivity. One of the primary effects of over

moisturizing is soil compaction, which occurs when the soil particles are

pressed together, reducing the air spaces between them. This can limit the

availability of oxygen to soil microorganisms and plant roots, resulting in

reduced soil aeration. Additionally, soil compaction can make it difficult for

roots to penetrate, which can limit plant growth. Over moisturizing can also

lead to reduced water-holding capacity and porosity of the soil, which can

result in waterlogged soil and reduced availability of water and nutrients to

plants. Overall, over moisturizing can negatively impact soil physical

properties and limit crop productivity, highlighting the importance of proper

soil moisture management.

Another study conducted by Li, Y., Lin, X., Li, H., Liu, S., & Wei

(2015) stated that under moisturizing, or not providing enough water to the

soil, can have significant negative effects on soil health and crop

productivity. One of the primary effects of under moisturizing is reduced

plant growth, as plants may not be able to access the water and nutrients

they need for growth. This can lead to stunted or weak plants, reduced

yields, and even crop failure in severe cases. Additionally, under moisturized

soil may be more susceptible to erosion, as the soil particles can become

loose and easily washed away by wind or water. This can lead to loss of

topsoil, which is rich in nutrients and important for plant growth.

On the other hand, under moisturizing, or not providing enough water

to the soil, can have significant negative effects on soil health and crop

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productivity. One of the primary effects of under moisturizing is reduced

plant growth, as plants may not be able to access the water and nutrients

they need for growth. This can lead to stunted or weak plants, reduced

yields, and even crop failure in severe cases. Additionally, under moisturized

soil may be more susceptible to erosion, as the soil particles can become

loose and easily washed away by wind or water. This can lead to loss of

topsoil, which is rich in nutrients and important for plant growth.

Another effect of under moisturizing is decreased soil microbial

activity. Soil microorganisms play an important role in breaking down

organic matter and making nutrients available to plants. Under moisturized

soil can limit the activity of these microorganisms, which can impact soil

health and reduce the availability of nutrients to plants. This can lead to

nutrient deficiencies in plants, which can further impact plant growth and

reduce yields.

Soil moisture problems pose a major threat to the global agricultural

industry. Soil moisture problems can have a significant impact on plant

growth and crop yields. Inadequate soil moisture can result in stunted

growth, reduced crop yields, and increased susceptibility to pests and

diseases. On the other hand, excessive soil moisture can lead to

waterlogging, root rot, and other plant diseases, which can also negatively

impact crop yields. Moreover, soil moisture problems can lead to soil erosion,

reduced soil fertility, and loss of biodiversity. A study conducted by Zhao et

al. (2020) found that soil moisture stress caused by climate change can

result in a reduction in crop yields and an increase in water use efficiency in

wheat and maize crops. The study also found that improved soil moisture

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management, such as irrigation and soil amendments, can mitigate the

negative impacts of soil moisture stress on crop growth and yield.

Effects of Lack of Moisture on Crop Yields

The effects of lack of moisture on crop yields are well documented in

scientific literature. In general, crops require a certain amount of water to

grow and produce optimal yields. Lack of moisture can lead to reduced crop

growth, smaller plants, and lower yields. In severe cases, crops may fail

completely, leading to food shortages and economic losses.

One study that highlights the effects of lack of moisture on crop yields

is "Effects of Water Stress on Maize Yield in the Ethiopian Highlands" by

Tesfaye et al. (2019). The study investigated the effects of different levels of

water stress on maize yields in the Ethiopian highlands, which are prone to

droughts. The results showed that water stress had a significant negative

effect on maize yields, with the highest level of stress leading to a 46%

reduction in yield compared to the control group. The study also found that

the timing and severity of water stress had a significant impact on maize

yields, with early-season stress having a greater effect than mid-season

stress.

These studies highlight the importance of adequate water supply for

crop growth and yield, and the potential economic and social impacts of lack

of moisture on crop production. Effective management of water resources

and development of drought-tolerant crop varieties are essential to mitigate

the impacts of water stress on crop yields and ensure food security for

communities around the world.

Soil Moisture Sensor

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Soil moisture sensors are important tools in agriculture, horticulture,

and environmental science for monitoring the moisture content of soil. These

sensors can be used to inform irrigation schedules, optimize plant growth

and yield, and conserve water resources.

Soil moisture sensors can be used in both field and greenhouse

settings. In the field, sensors can be installed at various depths in the soil to

provide information about soil moisture profiles and water movement. In

greenhouses, sensors can be used to monitor the moisture content of soil in

containers or raised beds, and to provide feedback to automated irrigation

systems.

The data collected from soil moisture sensors can be used to optimize

irrigation schedules and conserve water resources. By measuring the

moisture content of soil in real-time, farmers and horticulturists can adjust

irrigation schedules based on actual plant needs, rather than relying

on estimates or pre-determined schedules. This approach can lead to

significant water savings, reduced plant stress, and improved yields.

In addition to agriculture and horticulture, soil moisture sensors are

also used in environmental science to monitor the moisture content of soils

in natural ecosystems. This information can be used to predict and monitor

droughts, as well as inform land management and conservation practices.

One study that highlights the use of soil moisture sensors is

"Evaluation of a Low-Cost Soil Moisture Sensor for Irrigation Scheduling of

Landscape Plants" by Beeson et al. (2014). The study evaluated the use of a

low-cost soil moisture sensor for irrigation scheduling of landscape plants in

Florida. The results showed that the soil moisture sensor was effective in

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reducing water use and maintaining healthy plants. The study also found

that the use of the sensor resulted in significant water savings compared to

traditional irrigation scheduling methods.

Another study that highlights the use of soil moisture sensors is a

study conducted by Mupangwa et al. (2019). The study investigated the use

of soil moisture sensors to improve irrigation efficiency in maize production

in Zimbabwe. The results showed that the use of soil moisture sensors led to

significant improvements in irrigation efficiency, with a 27% reduction in

water use compared to traditional irrigation methods. The study also found

that the use of soil moisture sensors led to improved crop growth and yield,

with a 12% increase in maize yield compared to traditional irrigation

methods.

Traditional Ways on Checking Soil Moisture

While modern electronic or digital devices have revolutionized soil

moisture measurement, traditional ways of checking soil moisture have been

used for centuries by farmers and gardeners. These traditional methods do

not require advanced technology, and can be cost-effective and accessible to

many people.

One of the methods in checking moisture content in the soil is by

doing the “pinch test” The pinch test is a traditional method used by farmers

and gardeners to assess soil moisture content in the field. The method

involves taking a handful of soil and squeezing it tightly in the palm of the

hand. The soil is then released, and the observer notes the texture and

moisture content of the soil based on how the soil feels and behaves.

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In a study published in the Journal of Irrigation and Drainage

Engineering in 2000, the researchers examined the accuracy of the pinch

test in estimating soil moisture content in a sandy loam soil. The study

found that the pinch test results were positively correlated with soil moisture

content, with a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.69. However, the study

also noted that the accuracy of the pinch test was affected by the soil type

and that additional research was needed to further validate the method.

Another study published in the Journal of the American Society for

Horticultural Science in 2013 investigated the effectiveness of the pinch test

in assessing soil moisture content in tomato crops. The study found that the

pinch test was a reliable indicator of soil moisture content and could be used

as an effective tool for monitoring soil moisture in tomato production

systems. However, the study also noted that the pinch test required

significant experience and skill to perform accurately and that it may not be

suitable for all types of soil. While the pinch test is a simple and accessible

method for checking soil moisture, its accuracy and reliability can be

affected by factors such as soil type and the skill level of the user.

Another manual method in tracking the soil moisture is the “weight

method”. The weight method is a traditional technique used to estimate soil

moisture content by measuring the weight of soil before and after drying.

The method involves collecting a soil sample from the field and weighing it

while it is still moist. The soil sample is then dried in an oven at a specific

temperature until it reaches a constant weight. The weight of the dry soil is

then subtracted from the weight of the moist soil to calculate the weight of

water in the sample, which can be used to estimate the soil moisture

content.

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In a study conducted by Kaur et al. (2018), the weight method was

used to estimate soil moisture content in a vegetable garden. The study

found that the weight method was a reliable and cost-effective method for

measuring soil moisture content in small-scale vegetable gardens.

Another study by Farooq et al. (2016) evaluated the performance of

the weight method compared to other traditional methods such as the feel

method and the appearance method. The study found that the weight

method was a reliable and accurate method for estimating soil moisture

content, and performed similarly to the other traditional methods.

Automated Water System

An automated water system is a type of water supply system that is

equipped with automated features that allow for remote control and

monitoring of water usage. Typically, an automated water system includes

sensors, controllers, and communication devices that work together to

optimize water use and minimize waste.

In agriculture, an automated water system may be used to monitor

soil moisture levels and automatically adjust irrigation schedules based on

real-time weather data. For example, if the soil moisture sensors indicate

that the soil is dry, the system may automatically turn on the irrigation to

provide water to the plants. Similarly, if the weather forecast predicts rain,

the system may delay or skip an irrigation cycle to avoid overwatering.

Automated water systems are also used in residential and commercial

settings, where they may be used to control water usage for landscaping,

swimming pools, and other outdoor features. These systems can help to

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conserve water, reduce water bills, and minimize the environmental impact

of water usage.

In a study conducted by A. O. Ogunlade, et al, the study provided a

comprehensive review of smart irrigation systems and their potential to

improve irrigation efficiency and water use in agriculture. The study

discusses the different types of smart irrigation systems, including weather-

based, soil moisture-based, and plant-based systems, and compares their

effectiveness in different agricultural settings. They also analyze the benefits

and limitations of smart irrigation systems and their impact on crop yields,

water use efficiency, and overall sustainability.

Similarly, another study conducted by N. Yella Reddy and V.

Geethalakshmi investigated on the effectiveness of an automated water

system in rice production, with a focus on water saving yield enchancement.

The authors compared the performance of an automated system with a

traditional manual irrigation system in two different rice fields in India. The

automated system was equipped with soil moisture sensors and an

automatic controller, while the manual system relied on visual inspections

and manual adjustments.

The study found that the automated system resulted in significant

water savings compared to the manual system. The automated system

reduced water use by 28% in one field and 20% in the other field, without

any reduction in crop yields. In fact, the automated system resulted in

slightly higher crop yields compared to the traditional water system in one of

the fields.

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Chapter III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

I. RESEARCH DESIGN

The study used a quasi-experimental design. The researchers involved

building and testing the device in the field, and then compared the

performance of the device with the soil moisture sensor and automated

water system to another device or traditional method without the system.

The quasi-experimental design allowed the researcher to compare the

effectiveness of the two methods.

Soil Moisture Sensor Arduino UNO

Measured data sent to

Arduino for processing

Arduino UNO
sends signal to
relay to switch
on or off the DC
water pump
Relay module sends
signal to water pump
DC Water Pump (ON/OFF)
Water is
sent to soil
Relay Modle

Figure 1: Prototype for Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water System

II. LOCALE OF THE STUDY

This study was conducted in the Science Laboratory at Quezon

National High School-Senior High School, Alunan, Quezon, Isabela, from

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February 2023 to June 2023.

III. MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

Hardware Requirements:

● Arduino UNO – Microchip ATmega328P (Operating Voltage: 5 Volts

Input Voltage: 7 to 20 Volts Digital I/O Pins: 14)

● Soil moisture sensor module– 3.3v - 5v Operating Voltage (VDC) - 3.3

~ 5, PCB Dimension - Approx.3cm x 1.5cm, Soil Probe Dimension -

Approx. 6cm x 3cm, Cable Length (cm) – 20

● Submersible Pump - 180V-230V, 1.85 M, 18W and an attachable pipe

of 32mm – 110mm with required length.

● Relay – (1 or many channel), 5V DC, 100ma Load - 250v 10a AC or

30v 10a dc

● Power supply – AC socket 220V

● Breadboard and Jumper wires – Male to Female, Male to Male, Female

to Female

Software Requirements:

● Arduino IDE – 1.8.16 (recommended)

● Central Processing Unit (CPU) – Intel Core i5 6th Generation processor

or higher. An AMD equivalent processor will also be optimal.

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● RAM – 4 to 8 GB minimum, 16 GB or higher is recommended

● Operating System- Ubuntu or Microsoft Windows 10

● 5 GB free disk space

● Python- 3.10.0

COMPONENT DESCRIPTIONS

Arduino Uno

Arduino Uno is a microcontroller board based on the ATmega328. It has

14 digital input / output pins (of which 6 can be used as PWM outputs), 6

analog inputs, 16 MHz ceramic resonator, USB connection, power jack, ICSP

plug, and a reset button. It contains everything needed to support the

microcontroller; simply use the USB cable or power it with a AC-to-DC

adapter or battery is connected to a computer begins.

Moisture Sensor

It consists of two conductive metal probes that are used to measure

the moisture content of the soil. This sensor can be used to check soil

moisture when there is not enough water in the soil, the module output is

high, otherwise it is low. It has two header pins that connect to the Arduino

UNO. It has a detection length of 38 mm and an operating voltage of 2-5 V

Water Pump/DC Motor

Water is used to perform a specific task of artificially pumping. It can

be controlled by an electronic microcontroller. It can be on 1 triggered by

sending the signal and turned off as needed. Artificial process is called Water

Pumping. There are many varieties of pumps. This project we would like to

use a DC motor.

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Relay Module

Relay is an electrically operated switch. Many relays for switching

solenoid mechanism mechanically operated, but can also be used for other

principles of operation. Relays are widely used in early computers to

telephones and perform logical operations.

IV. RESEARCH PROCEDURE

Collection of Materials

The materials needed like water pump and wires are all be bought from

the market. While the Arduino UNO and soil moisture sensor are bought in

an online store.

Coding and Programming

The researchers worked on the code with the assistance of a

professional in the field of programming. The code went through a thorough

debugging to ensure the accuracy and efficiency in detecting moisture levels.

After multiple testing, the code was completed.

Assembling

The assembling of the product will be composed of joining and

connecting the materials to the microcontroller with the use of jumper wires.

TEST AND ANALYSIS

Testing of the device involves comparing the device to traditional watering

system and comparing results on regulating the soil’s moisture. The device is

deemed successful when the sensor provides accurate readings of soil

moisture levels consistently over time. It should also reliably trigger the

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automated water system based on the moisture thresholds the researchers

have set.

The final product will be thoroughly tested and will undergo trial and

debugging. The product’s speed, accuracy, and efficiency shall be examined

thoroughly. Refinement of the device will be done after detecting any flaws.

Soil Moisture Sensor readings

Condition Range

Wet, There is Moisture Less than 450

Soggy, There is some Moisture 450 - 600

Dry, There is no Moisture More than 600

V. RESEARCH FLOWCHART

Start

Soil Moisture Sensor: Check

for moisture levels

Water Level (Threshold)

Yes

Activate Water System: Start

Irrigation
No
Initialize watering of crops

Again check soil for moisture

content from soil sensor

End

Figure 2: Flowchart for AWS using SMS

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VI. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Statistical analyses can involve the use of descriptive statistics, such as

means, minimum and maximum value, to summarize and visualize the

distribution of data. Hypothesis Testing is used to determine whether

differences in soil moisture levels or water delivery are statistically

significant.

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Chapter IV

PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA

This chapter contains the data that has been collected and will be

reviewed and assessed to enhance comprehension of the study. The

presentation of data entails clearly and attractively organizing and

visualizing information.

Table 1.1
Performance of the Soil Moisture Sensor with Automated Water System
in terms of:

Parameters Trial Value Reference Range Description

Accuracy in 1 300 The sensor can
detecting 2 311 0-450 is labeled accurately detect
moisture 3 312 as “NO moisture levels from 0
(No 4 301 MOISTURE” to 450 and has a
Moisture) 5 308 consistent read.
Average 306.4
Accuracy in 1 850 The sensor can
detecting 2 800 600-1000 is accurately detect
moisture 3 867 labeled as “THERE moisture levels from
(There is 4 856 IS MOISTURE” 600 to 1000 and has a
Moisture) 5 845 consistent read.
Average 843.6

Table 1.2

Parameters Trials Value Description

1 515
2 518
The soil moisture content is relatively
Repeatability 3 522
consistent
4 520
5 515

1 1 sec.
2 1 sec. The sensor can respond to changes in
Response
3 1 sec. moisture levels within 1 second with no
Time
4 1 sec. errors
5 1 sec.

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The table shows the soil moisture sensor's performance specifications,

including its accuracy, repeatability, and response time. It indicates that the

sensor can accurately detect moisture levels between 0 and 1200,

demonstrating its ability to distinguish between no moisture and varying

degrees of moisture content. Additionally, the sensor exhibits high

repeatability, consistently producing measurements with a variation of only

0.5%, ensuring reliable and consistent soil moisture readings. Furthermore,

the sensor boasts a fast response time of 1 second, enabling it to capture

changes in moisture levels promptly and effectively.

Table 2
Performance of the automated water system in terms of the following:
Parameters Value Prescribed Description
Range
Water 450mL 250-500mL per The automated water
Consumption per week week system watered the plant
and Efficiency without waste and
provided the needed
amount.

From the data recorded, it is evident that the system effectively

managed the water supply for the plant. The recorded value of 450 mL per

week falls within the reference range of 250-500 mL per week, indicating

that the automated water system provided an appropriate amount of water

for the plant's needs without any wastage.

Table 3
Dimensions of the Soil moisture sensor with automated water system in
terms of the following:
Parameters Value Prescribed Description
Range
Power 5V DC 3.3V to 5V DC The power requirements
Requirements needed for the device to
work was met.

The table provides a concise overview of key parameters related to the

power requirements of the device under consideration. According to the data

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presented, the device operates optimally with a power supply of 5V DC,

which falls within the reference range of 3.3V to 5V DC. This indicates that

the power requirements specified for the device have been met, aligning with

the recommended range.

Table 3.1
Dimensions of the Soil moisture sensor with automated water system in
terms of the following:
Parameter Trials Value Description
s
Week 7 days The duration of each maintenance session is
1 fixed at 7 days, indicating a repetitive and
Week 7 days potentially planned schedule.

Maintenan 2
ce
Week 7 days

The table succinctly outlines the maintenance parameters for the

device, specifically focusing on its reliance on batteries. Based from the

provided information, the anticipated battery lifespan which is 7 days was

met, and replacement is recommended once this timeframe has elapsed.

Chapter V

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

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Summary
The purpose of the study is to construct a soil moisture sensor with

an automated water system to develop a new approach to agriculture. The

study findings suggest the following:

In terms of performance the sensor exhibited a commendable

performance in both detecting the absence and presence of moisture, with

average accuracies of 306.4 and 843.6 for "No Moisture" and "There is

Moisture" conditions, respectively. These findings indicate the sensor's

effectiveness in providing consistent and accurate moisture readings across

different scenarios.

The soil moisture sensor also demonstrated reliable performance in

terms of repeatability and response time. The repeatability trials consistently

yield readings between 515 and 522, indicating stable and consistent

measurements of soil moisture content. Additionally, the sensor exhibits an

impressive response time, consistently registering changes in moisture levels

within 1 second across all five trials without any errors.

In terms of performance of an automated water system based on the

parameter "Water Consumption and Efficiency," with a prescribed range of

250-500 mL per week. The system successfully maintained efficient water

usage by delivering 450 mL per week to the plant, falling within the

recommended range. This performance indicates that the automated water

system effectively watered the plant without unnecessary waste, ensuring

that the plant received the required amount of water for optimal growth and

health.

In terms of "Power Requirements," where the specified value is 5V DC,

falling within the prescribed range of 3.3V to 5V DC. This indicates that the

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power needs for the device are met, ensuring its functionality within the

specified electrical parameters.

In terms of the parameter "Maintenance," conducted over three weeks

with a consistent value of 7 days per week. This fixed duration suggests a

repetitive and potentially planned maintenance schedule. The device appears

to require regular maintenance sessions, occurring every 7 days, indicating a

predictable and systematic approach to sustaining its operational efficiency

and longevity.

Conclusions

The study successfully achieved its goal of constructing a soil

moisture sensor integrated with an automated water system. The soil

moisture sensor and automated water system showed great results, it is

evident that this technology offer a promising approach to enhancing

irrigation efficiency, crop productivity, and water conservation in agricultural

settings. The ability of soil moisture sensors to accurately measure soil

moisture levels enables precise irrigation scheduling, ensuring that crops

receive the optimal amount of water without unnecessary waste. Automated

watering systems further optimize water usage by automatically activating

irrigation based on sensor readings, eliminating the risk of over-watering or

under-watering.

The data observed showed the efficiency and accuracy of the device in

terms of measuring the moisture content of the soil. Notably, it can be

concluded that the Soil Moisture Sensor and Automated Water System has

been developed and tested successfully and found to function automatically.

Recommendations

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Based on our thorough examination and analysis in the preceding

sections, the following are the recommendations by the researchers.

Consider the soil type in conducting this study to investigate if it is effective

on different soil type and moisture level. Further research should be done to

determine the ideal amount of moisture level for each soil type to set more

accurate thresholds. Secondly, consider collaborating with researchers,

programmers, and experts in the field of coding and programming. Their

expertise can provide valuable insights, enhance the credibility of the

research, and help validate the accuracy and effectiveness of the written

code for the Arduino.

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BSWM. (2023, March 1). http://bswm.da.gov.ph/?s=soil

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Chikankar, P. B., Mehetre, D. C., & Das, S. (2015). An automatic irrigation

system using ZigBee in wireless sensor network.

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Automation (ICCUBEA)* (pp. 1-5). IEEE.

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DOCUMENTATION

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