An IoT-Based Smart Fertilization System Using Biofloc Wastewater for Chili Cultivation

A Research-to-Community Innovation in Biofloc Waste Repurposing

Abstract

Addressing the strategic scope of research, innovation, and knowledge transfer, this study developed an IoT-based smart fertilization system, Smart AgroFlok, which repurposes nutrient-rich biofloc wastewater for precision chili (Capsicum annuum L.) cultivation to mitigate agricultural environmental challenges. The technological innovation integrates an ESP32 microcontroller, a soil pH sensor, optocoupler-isolated relays, and automated pumps to drive sustainable resource circularity. System deployment and cross-sector knowledge transfer were executed directly at the Bumi Priangan Forest Farmer Group (KTH Bumi Priangan) in Tanah Laut Regency, Indonesia, empowering local farmers with smart farming capabilities. Employing a quantitative experimental approach, technical evaluation via localized gateway telemetry verified that the automated control logic functions reliably, triggering precision fertigation when soil pH parameters are within the optimal 5.5–6.5 threshold. Network benchmarking revealed a Packet Delivery Ratio (PDR) of 60.4% (183 out of 303 transmitted packets successfully received) due to rural topographic attenuation. Through empirical experimental observations, 10 chili plant samples over a 2-day post-fertilization window demonstrated rapid vegetative responses, with mean plant height increasing from 15.8 cm to 18.6 cm and mean leaf count expanding from 8.4 to 11.4. This research successfully bridges technological innovation and community-driven knowledge transfer for sustainable rural smart agriculture.