Technology has made it easier for users to do almost anything around the house. It’s also making big waves in the gardening community. Innovative new tools utilize technology to track plant growth, create flexible watering schedules and act as a visualization tool during the planning process. These additions to your gardening routine can improve your garden’s efficiency and give you more insight into the inner workings of your plants. 

Soil Monitoring Systems

These standalone systems allow you to measure multiple factors, including soil temperature, air temperature, light, pH, moisture and nutrient levels. The device is planted into the soil near your plants and will send the data it records directly to your smartphone or computer. 

Automated Greenhouses

Automated greenhouses utilize sensors to optimize watering, fertilizing and growing conditions. These tech-forward structures are often paired with a hydroponic system, or a growing system that suspends plant roots in a water-based nutrient solution instead of soil, for added efficiency. 

Automated Watering Systems

Along the same lines as an automated greenhouse, these watering systems use technology to take some of the guesswork out of gardening. These systems are connected to sprinklers or hoses, and adjusted by plant growth, weather and soil conditions. They can also help reduce water waste and lower the risk of underwatering. 

Gardening Apps

Gardening tips and tricks at your fingertips, gardening apps can provide home gardeners with 24/7 assistance. Some apps, like Garden Manager, can help you visually plan your garden before you plant the first seed. By adding additional information like your planting zone, soil and average amount of sunlight, the app can also provide recommendations for the best types of plants to use. Other apps, like Veggie Garden Planter, can help you keep track of your plant’s growth and offer recommendations for plants that mesh well with each plant according to their profile.