Wireless Sensor Network System for Precision Irrigation using Soil and Plant Based Near-Real Time Monitoring Sensors

Real-time monitoring for precision irrigation using wireless technologies is crucial to combat surplus irrigation and reduce the climate change effect on water use efficiency. Variations in sap-flow and volumetric water contents (VWC) were investigated on date palm trees of Al Naghal (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in water scare countries using traditional flood and modern drip irrigation systems. Daily SF rates and VWC were tracked in connection to weather conditions. The results showed that the meteorological parameters that affected SF rates were noted with order temperature (T) > net solar-radiations (Rn) > vapor-pressure-deficit (VPD) > wind-speed for two consecutive years, 2015 and 2016 (U). Daytime fluctuations in Rn and temperature resulted in the highest SF rates between 12:00 and 14:00, decreasing relative trends between 18:00 and 23:00, and high volumetric water contents. SF rates were used to determine the plant's water condition and environmental challenges. Under highly drought conditions, the variety (Al-Naghal) demonstrated its aptitude, stability, and consistency. The actual water use efficiency explored with 80.6% and 71.4% at aflaj and modern irrigation systems, respectively, was determined by soil and plant-based monitoring, yielding accurate quantities of 17.5 and 12 liters/day at aflaj and modern irrigation systems, respectively. It has exposed the actual plant transpiration, and irrigation water requirement used to inaugurate precision irrigation systems in the arid regions.