Background of the study:
Greenhouse irrigation is crucial for ensuring optimal crop growth and water conservation in agricultural practices, particularly in regions with erratic rainfall patterns such as Minna LGA, Niger State. Traditional irrigation systems often operate on fixed schedules, leading to overwatering or underwatering, which negatively impacts crop yield and water resource management. The design and implementation of an IoT‐based smart automated greenhouse irrigation system offer a cutting-edge solution by leveraging sensors, real‐time data analytics, and wireless connectivity to optimize water usage. This system monitors environmental parameters including soil moisture, temperature, and humidity, and uses predictive algorithms to adjust irrigation schedules dynamically (Ibrahim, 2023). By integrating these sensors with automated valves and pumps, the system can deliver precise amounts of water based on current crop needs, thus reducing water wastage and promoting sustainable agriculture (Adeniyi, 2024). Additionally, the collected data is transmitted to a central platform where it is analyzed to provide insights for future irrigation planning and resource allocation (Udo, 2025). This proactive and responsive approach ensures that crops receive the optimal amount of water at the right time, improving growth rates and overall productivity. The implementation of such a system is particularly significant for greenhouse operations, where controlled environments demand precision and efficiency. By automating the irrigation process, the system not only reduces labor costs but also enhances water conservation efforts, aligning with global sustainability initiatives and ensuring long-term agricultural resilience.
Statement of the problem:
In Minna LGA, traditional greenhouse irrigation systems are hampered by their inability to adapt to real-time environmental conditions, leading to inefficient water use and suboptimal crop yields. Fixed-schedule irrigation methods often result in either water wastage or inadequate watering, compromising crop health and reducing overall productivity (Ibrahim, 2023). The lack of continuous monitoring means that soil moisture levels and other critical parameters are not accurately tracked, preventing timely interventions and adjustments. Consequently, farmers face increased operational costs and reduced yields due to inconsistent water supply. Furthermore, the absence of a data-driven approach limits the ability to forecast irrigation needs and optimize resource allocation, leaving greenhouse operations vulnerable to climatic variability and water scarcity (Adeniyi, 2024). Financial constraints and limited technical infrastructure further exacerbate these challenges, making it difficult to implement efficient irrigation practices. Without a smart, IoT‐based automated system, greenhouse managers remain reliant on outdated, manual methods that hinder sustainable agricultural practices. Addressing these issues is essential to ensure efficient water use, improve crop performance, and reduce the environmental impact of greenhouse farming in Minna LGA (Udo, 2025).
Objectives of the study:
To design an IoT‐based smart automated irrigation system for greenhouses.
To evaluate the system’s effectiveness in optimizing water usage and improving crop yields.
To propose strategies for integrating the system into existing greenhouse operations.
Research questions:
How effective is the IoT‐based system in monitoring and controlling greenhouse irrigation in real time?
What improvements in water conservation and crop performance are observed post‐implementation?
How can the system be integrated with current greenhouse management practices to enhance sustainability?
Significance of the study:
This study is significant as it introduces a sustainable, technology-driven solution to optimize greenhouse irrigation. By automating water delivery based on real-time data, the system enhances crop yields, conserves water, and reduces operational costs. The findings will support farmers and agricultural managers in adopting efficient irrigation practices that promote long-term sustainability in greenhouse farming.
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to the design, implementation, and evaluation of an IoT‐based smart automated greenhouse irrigation system in Minna LGA. It does not extend to other irrigation systems or regions.
Definitions of terms:
IoT (Internet of Things): A network of interconnected devices that exchange real-time data.
Automated Irrigation System: A system that regulates water delivery based on sensor data and predefined algorithms.
Greenhouse Irrigation: The controlled application of water to crops grown in greenhouse environments.
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