Abstract: A moisture monitoring device that measures the dielectric constant of a material to provide an indication of the moisture content of a material. The moisture monitoring device can provide an instantaneous indication of the moisture content of a material (e.g., soil). The moisture monitoring device can include a number of interchangeable decorative to allow a user to customize the appearance of the device. The moisture monitoring device can be used in conjunction with a moisture monitoring system that can be used to control a watering system (e.g., an irrigation system). A method for providing an instantaneous indication of the moisture content of a material is also disclosed.

Abstract: Lighting systems for providing supplemental light to plants to facilitate plant growth and/or to provide supplemental lighting in situations where sunlight is insufficient. Lighting systems may use LED technology to deliver specific wavelengths of light to maximize utilization of the supplemental light for photosynthesis. By delivering light having one or more specific wavelengths, it is possible to use a light that consumes relatively little power (e.g., about 10 watts or less) while providing sufficient supplemental light to facilitate healthy plant growth. Lighting systems may include a light-sensor to facilitate control of the amount of light provided. For example, a light-sensor may be used to automatically adjust the amount (e.g., intensity or duration) of light provided when the amount of ambient light available to the plant dips below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A moisture monitoring device that measures the dielectric constant of a material to provide an indication of the moisture content of a material. The moisture monitoring device can provide an instantaneous indication of the moisture content of a material (e.g., soil). The moisture monitoring device can include a number of interchangeable decorative to allow a user to customize the appearance of the device. The moisture monitoring device can be used in conjunction with a moisture monitoring system that can be used to control a watering system (e.g., an irrigation system). A method for providing an instantaneous indication of the moisture content of a material is also disclosed.

Abstract: A wireless moisture monitoring device that measures the dielectric constant of a material to provide an indication of the water or moisture content of a material. The wireless moisture monitoring device can monitor the moisture level of a material constantly, periodically, or the device can be configured to provide an instantaneous indication of the moisture content of the material (e.g., soil). The moisture monitoring device can be used in conjunction with a moisture monitoring system that can be used to control a watering system (e.g., an irrigation system). A method for providing an instantaneous indication of the moisture content of a material is also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus for adding liquid fertilizer to a water line of a sprinkler system includes a mechanical injector device powered by a paddle wheel turned by water flowing through the water line. The mechanical injector device includes a plunger that moves back and forth in the plunger chamber. Movement in one direction allows liquid fertilizer from a liquid fertilizer reservoir to flow into the plunger chamber and movement of the plunger in the opposite direction injects the liquid fertilizer from the plunger chamber into the water. The mechanical injector device is coupled to the paddle wheel which causes movement of the plunger in the plunger chamber in at least one direction. Spring bias can cause movement of the plunger in the other direction. The mechanical injector device can be disabled to stop fertilizer injection while still allowing rotation of the paddle wheel.