Terry Healy/istockphoto
DCL
An outdoor moisture sensor is a device that you bury in the driest part of your yard. It sits there detecting moisture until the sprinkler system is turned on. If the sensor detects an acceptable amount of moisture, it tells the sprinkler system to shut off. These things are so efficient that researchers have found that you can save 92% on your outdoor water costs by utilizing moisture sensors.
An indoor moisture sensor is utilized in much the same way. It can monitor groups of plants that are hooked up to a sprinkler system, like in a greenhouse or indoor garden. They are a great way to conserve water. Most people over-water because they don't know any better. Moisture sensors do the knowing for the gardener.
What if you could build your own moisture sensor? You can. Well, at least you can build one for indoor gardening. That's just what the Cheap Vegetable Gardener did. And he did it using only these implements.
1 tsp Plaster of Paris 1/2 tsp cold water Disposable cup for mixing wide straw (I used one from McDonalds, but most fast food straws should work) 2 small pieces of metal (I used wall hangers, but nails, paper clips, etc will work as long as they can fit inside the straw with room for plaster to form around)
It's pretty amazing what you can build out of stuff found around the house.
He built his particular moisture sensor for his automated grow box, and he hooked it up to a modified PS2 controller. He has instructions on how to make a wide array of crafty gardening items.
Build Your Own Moisture Sensor
Now, can anyone tell me how to rig one of these up for the outdoor sprinkler system?
The Cheap Vegetable Gardener also has instructions on how to build a computerized grow box.
You can also use the moisture sensors to monitor your houseplants. Botanicalls developed a system for your houseplants to call you when they are thirsty. But I'd prefer an automated grow box over bossy houseplants.
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