Control and Monitoring of Amaranth Blitum Growth under Greenhouse Cultivation

Weather extremes caused by climatic change considerably affect crops growth. Extreme temperature change and low water availability represent undesirable conditions for the growth of amaranth. This study aims to develop a greenhouse equipped with an automatic control system for water, humidity, and temperature control of Amaranth Blitum. Temperature, humidity, and soil moisture were monitored and maintained within a specific range. A microcontroller was used to activate a solenoid for irrigation-based sensor feedback, an exhaust fan, a cooling fan, and a heater to regulate humidity, and temperature respectively. The study was done in the month of July and December 2022. Efficient temperature and humidity control were demonstrated. The increase in plant height and diameter was higher for higher moisture content, a temperature within the 21 - 35°C range, and humidity within 45-95%. This work demonstrated the utility of sensor-based approach for monitoring and controlling of growth of Amaranth under greenhouse cultivation by applying a rule-based algorithm. The results of this research could be implemented to reduce plant damage while increasing yield productivity.