Smart Microclimate Controller for Propagation Greenhouse on Growing New Plants from Seeds

Greenhouse provides a stable environment for seeds that are typically started in seedling trays by regulating the soil moisture, temperature, and humidity for seedling production at any time. Production of new plants from seeds in the propagation greenhouse proliferates a large number of plants in a short period, however, environmental factors affect the germination and growth stage of the seedlings. The Internet of Things is growing with its emerging sensor devices offering extraordinary approaches to improve agricultural productivity. In this study, it focuses on growing new plants from seeds using a microclimate controller for propagation greenhouse. The objectives of the study are: to design and develop a smart microclimate controller; to identify the appropriate threshold values of the microclimate parameters and; to evaluate the level of reliability of the smart microclimate controller. Using a survey questionnaire and face-to-face interview methods focused on greenhouses, propagation practices, and environmental conditions, substantial information was obtained from selected greenhouse technicians in the province of Isabela. The various practices were used to develop significant plans and specifications to regulate environment parameters. With the use of a smart microclimate controller along with a propagation greenhouse, the recorded daily average growth rate of seedlings produced is 0.83 cm equivalent to an average of 0.21 cm daily growth rate quicker than of the seedlings produced on traditional propagation greenhouse. Hence, the microclimate controller demonstrates a competitive means of growing new plants from seeds. Furthermore, it promotes quality production of seedlings on minimal supervision but delivers constant service efficiently.