At a Ukrainian farm, artificial intelligence is now fully managing greenhouse ventilation and irrigation. "We have 10 cucumber greenhouses, and every morning they open automatically. Previously, workers sometimes forgot to ventilate the tomato greenhouses, which were tucked away in a corner, leading to occasional plant diseases," the manager explained.
Now, ventilation runs on AI-based scripts, eliminating human error. Irrigation is also automated through programmable electric valves, adjusted for different zones and crops. For instance, cucumbers require frequent watering, so they are irrigated in measured portions three times a day during hot weather, while tomatoes follow a similar schedule.
All operations can be monitored and controlled remotely via a smartphone app. Managers and staff can focus on other tasks, such as preparing nutrient solutions, while the system handles watering and climate adjustments. Alerts notify staff of irregular conditions, such as high temperatures or low humidity, prompting emergency interventions if necessary.
During winter and early spring, heating remains the biggest challenge. Any malfunctions, like leaks, are quickly detected by the system, allowing the foreman to address problems before they affect crops. The AI-driven setup not only increases efficiency but also helps prevent losses and ensures optimal growing conditions throughout the year.
Source: agrotimes.ua
