| Automated Plant
Fertigation Stephen Kania Research Specialist Engineer, Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering A major yet independent component of the greenhouse climate control system, the Fertigator is a special purpose computer designed specifically to control fertilizer injection (and acid for pH control). With the capability of incorporating the measured value of the outside solar radiation sensor into its decision making, in addition to signals from the electrical conductivity (EC) and pH meters, sophisticated amendment control and manipulation is possible. Solution electrical conductivity targets are varied by light intensity which is computed on a 30 minute sliding average, which can automatically modulate the electro-conductivity of the nutrient solution for high or low sunlight intensities. Frequency of injection cycles is controlled by summing the light received by the plant and comparing the value to a user-set threshold. Records of minimum, average, and maximum EC and pH levels during injection are retained for more than the last 100 injection cycles and can be viewed at any time. An innovative improved version of the Fertigator has been designed and will be tested. Cooperators: Dr. Merle Jensen, Dr. Patricia Rorabaugh, Dr. Gene Giacomelli Completed. |
