To successfully cultivate plants, greenhouses must maintain stable environmental conditions. Achieving this requires continuously monitoring both the internal environment and equipment by using greenhouse sensors to ensure everything stays within ideal parameters.
Modern greenhouse monitoring systems automate oversight through a network of sensors that detect abnormalities or deviations from preset thresholds and immediately trigger alerts to greenhouse operators by phone, text or email. This proactive system helps maintain optimal conditions, even when staff are not physically present.
Since issues often arise after hours or during the off-season, remote monitoring systems are essential for greenhouse managers. They provide around-the-clock oversight, allowing for rapid responses that help prevent costly damage to crops and equipment.
At the core of these systems are greenhouse sensors that continuously collect real-time data on critical factors such as like temperature, humidity, CO2 levels and electrical usage. This data is transmitted to a control hub or smart device where it is stored for operators to analyze and make timely adjustments to support optimal plant growth.
Greenhouse sensors generate large amounts of data, allowing growers to make informed, evidence-based decisions. Real-time readings are available instantly on smart devices and can be analyzed to identify trends such as recurring temperature spikes or humidity changes.
Many systems automatically save tens of thousands of data points in the cloud, providing unlimited access to records for viewing, graphing, printing or exporting. By analyzing this data, growers can gain insights to improve future operations and detect issues early — for example, spotting signs of a malfunctioning fan before total failure occurs.
Sensors can also be integrated with HVAC systems and other equipment to automate adjustments based on live readings. Whether it’s temperature, humidity or CO₂ levels, the system responds immediately, notifying operators condition changes that could disrupt the optimal environment for plant growth and quality.
Precise control over irrigation by using soil moisture sensors and ambient climate helps reduce water waste, lower energy consumption and cut costs. This supports more sustainable farming practices while promoting healthier plants and higher yields.
Remote monitoring systems use various sensors types to collect detailed data across all aspects of operations. Growers can choose sensors relevant to their crops and facility needs. Common applications include monitoring:
To track key variables, operators can strategically place sensors in the ground, on equipment or mount them on posts or walls. Examples:
In harsh greenhouse environments, sensors must be durable. Sensaphone’s latest sensors are available in weatherproof enclosures that resist wind, rain, humidity and more, providing long-lasting performance.
This device measures CO₂ concentrations up to 20,000 ppm, with programmable alerts for levels above 2,000 ppm. It connects to a Sensaphone monitoring system and requires a 24VDC power supply.
This sensor measures humidity from 0 to 100% RH. Users can set thresholds that trigger alerts when conditions fall outside the desired range. It also operates with a 24VDC power supply.
Sensors for Sensaphone’s WSG30 wireless remote monitoring system are protected from severe environmental conditions, making them ideal for outdoor installations. Weatherproof enclosures with transparent doors are available for all WSG30 main units and wireless temperature sensors, as well as for power failure sensors, dry contact sensors and resistance temperature detectors (RTDs).
When protecting your plants, every second counts. Early detection means you can act quickly to prevent losses. The right remote monitoring system, equipped with appropriate greenhouse sensors, depends on your unique operation. Evaluate your needs carefully to choose a system that delivers the reliability and protection you require.
For help selecting or installing greenhouse sensors or a complete monitoring system, call Sensaphone at 877-959-0478!