SoilMate

What it does

SoilMate is a smart, solar-powered irrigation device that solves the common problems of overwatering, underwatering, and lack of time for plant care. Designed specifically for Filipino home gardeners and small-scale growers.

Your inspiration

We created SoilMate after seeing how busy lifestyles and unpredictable weather often lead to overwatering or underwatering plants. Many existing solutions are expensive, complex, or not suited to local needs. Inspired by the growing interest in urban gardening and sustainability, we designed a simple, solar-powered device that automates watering based on real-time soil moisture. SoilMate offers a practical, affordable way to help Filipinos care for their plants efficiently and sustainably.

How it works

SoilMate is a smart irrigation system that automatically waters plants based on how wet or dry the soil is. It uses a moisture sensor placed in the soil to measure water levels. If the soil is too dry, the sensor sends a signal to a small computer (microcontroller), which then activates a water pump connected to a tank. This pump delivers just the right amount of water through tubes to the plants. When the soil has enough moisture, the system stops watering. SoilMate runs on solar power, making it energy-efficient and eco-friendly. It also has a battery backup so it works even at night or on cloudy days. The design includes adjustable settings for watering schedules and a built-in water level indicator, helping users easily monitor the system. It’s compact, easy to set up, and works for both small potted plants and larger garden areas.

Design process

Design Process of SoilMate Identifying the Problem We began by observing common challenges faced by plant owners—mainly overwatering, underwatering, and lack of time. Survey results confirmed strong interest in a smart, low-maintenance plant care solution. Concept Development We brainstormed ideas and decided on a self-regulating irrigation system powered by solar energy. Our goal was to create a simple, affordable device tailored to local conditions. Initial Prototyping Our first prototype used a basic moisture sensor, Arduino microcontroller, and a small pump. We tested it on potted plants to automate watering based on soil dryness. Testing and Feedback We ran several trials in different soil types and plant setups. Issues like inconsistent moisture readings and water flow delays helped us identify areas for improvement. Refinement We added a calibration feature for the sensor, improved water tubing design, and included a built-in water level indicator. We also optimized the solar charging system and added a battery backup for night use. Final Prototype Our latest version features a triple-pot base, adjustable watering schedule, and low-maintenance design. It’s compact, customizable, and ready for both household and commercial use.

How it is different

SoilMate stands out from other irrigation systems because it’s specifically designed for Filipino users—adapting to local soil types, weather conditions, and practical needs. Unlike imported products that are often expensive, bulky, or hard to set up, SoilMate is compact, affordable, and user-friendly. It’s powered by solar energy, reducing electricity costs and making it ideal for areas with limited access to power. The system offers real-time soil moisture sensing, customizable watering schedules, and a built-in water level indicator—all in one device. It’s also scalable, working for anything from a single pot to a garden plot.

Future plans

Our next steps for SoilMate include refining the current prototype for mass production and expanding its features through mobile app integration for remote monitoring and control. We plan to collaborate with local manufacturers and agricultural suppliers to reduce costs and increase accessibility. In terms of business, we aim to launch in local gardening stores and e-commerce platforms, targeting both hobbyist gardeners and small-scale farmers. In the future, we hope to scale SoilMate nationwide, promote sustainable agriculture, and eventually expand to other Southeast Asian countries facing similar challenges.

Awards