StemSense: A precise irrigation monitoring system to provide an accurate measurement of water status in crops
The agricultural water use in irrigation is the main cause of global water wastage. Due to insufficient knowledge of plant water status, farmers often overwater plants by 20 %, resulting in significant wastewater and lowering plant yields. The EU-funded StemSense project focuses on the development and full commercialisation of a unique sensor device that measures stem water potential, which is scientifically proven to provide the most accurate data on plant water status. By interpreting these data, incorporating external factors such as meteorological data, the sensor provides recommended irrigation levels to farmers. Through this system, farmers will experience up to 20 % higher income, significant water savings and reduced costs.