The rootzone plays a pivotal role in nutrient absorption and the overall vitality of the plant. In medical cannabis cultivation, maintaining an optimal rootzone is crucial. IoT devices have revolutionized this aspect of cultivation, offering data-driven insights for optimal plant care.
The rootzone is where plant roots absorb water, oxygen and nutrients. A balanced rootzone ensures healthy growth and robust yields. Imbalances can lead to root rot, nutrient lockout and stunted growth, affecting yield and quality.
What Are We Monitoring?
Telemetry Types:
- Moisture Content: Indicates water content in the rootzone.
- Example Value: 60% moisture.
- pH Level: Measures rootzone acidity or alkalinity.
- Example Value: 6.5.
- How This Telemetry is Represented: Data is typically visualized in graphs, reflecting changes over time.
Devices for Monitoring Rootzone
- Soil Moisture Sensors: Measure soil water content.
- pH Meters: Monitor rootzone pH, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption.
- Electrical Conductivity (EC) Meters: Indicate nutrient levels via salt concentration.
Interpreting Data
- Understanding the Ideal Range: For cannabis, moisture content should be 40-70%, and pH should be 6.0-7.0.
- Recognizing Outliers: Drastic changes in readings can indicate drainage or nutrient issues.
Using Data for Cultivation Decisions
- Adjusting Irrigation and Nutrient Feed: Use moisture and EC readings to refine irrigation and feeding.
- Incorporating Other Data: Combine rootzone data with other parameters for a holistic understanding.
- Long-term Planning: Continuous monitoring can guide future cultivation strategies.
The rootzone is central to the cannabis plant's health. Monitoring it effectively, especially with the assistance of IoT devices, can significantly impact the yield. Embracing these tools ensures precision and efficiency, leading to thriving plants.
This article is part thirteen of an exclusive new series that will guide you through the essence of each of the fourteen pillars of plant care, focusing on indoor growth and revealing the nuances of how IoT can be a game-changer for cultivators.
Shawn Deggans owns Green Nanny, an IoT, AI and data consulting company focused on helping growers spend more time in the garden and less time struggling with technology.
