Contactless sensor technology for measuring soil moisture

The autonomous self-watering flowerpot facilitates the daily routine of plant owners and works as an extended green thumb. Plants are often neglected at home, because their owners are not capable to offer them the necessary attention due to physical or mental problems or a lack of time. In consequence, the plants die and reduce the desire for a green, healthy environment. This paper examines the use of a capacitive sensor for measuring soil moisture as the basis for an optimal irrigation of plants with the aim to create a user friendly product.