Robotics And Coding in Hydroponics
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Address:
Delmas Campus
Plot IR 202 Leeupoort road, Delmas, Mpumalanga
Pretoria Support Office
Plot 146, Luiperd Street, Tierpoort Pretoria East, Gauteng
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Phone:
Delmas: (+27) 10 001 4320
Pretoria: (+27) 12 811 7310
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Email:
info@buhle.org.za
Robotics And Coding in Hydroponics
This unified module introduces the fundamental principles of vegetable production under hydroponic conditions. You’ll explore hydroponic systems, structures, and growth media; identify suitable crops and cultivars that flourish in these environments; and apply sustainability best practices in pest and disease management, fertigation, irrigation, and sanitation to ensure high‑quality crop establishment and hygiene.
Building on these foundations, you’ll apply robotics and coding to automate and optimise the system using the BBC Micro:Bit—controlling grow lights, pumps and water cycles, and reading sensors for pH, EC, temperature and moisture. Designed with local educators and engineers, the Growbotics approach turns theory into hands‑on experimentation that bridges biology, chemistry, physics and programming, while promoting environmental awareness and future‑ready skills.
Challenges & Solutions
In the Hydroponics module, participants will explore key challenges in soilless farming and learn effective, tech‑driven solutions to achieve healthy crops and high yields.
Challenges
Balancing nutrient concentrations and pH levels
Maintaining optimal water quality and oxygenation
Preventing pests, diseases, and biofilm buildup
Solutions
Design and calibrate nutrient delivery and pH control systems
Implement water filtration, aeration, and monitoring protocols
Adopt integrated pest management and sanitation best practices
Learning Outcomes
Upon completing this unified Hydroponic Vegetable Production with Robotics & Coding module, you will be able to:
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Explain hydroponic systems, structures, and growth media, and select suitable crops and cultivars.
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Measure, balance, and maintain nutrient solutions (EC/pH) with documented monitoring schedules.
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Implement water-quality protocols (filtration, aeration, sanitation) and apply IPM to limit pests, disease, and biofilm.
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Plan fertigation and irrigation schedules aligned to crop stages and environmental conditions.
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Calibrate and integrate pH, EC, temperature, and moisture sensors; log and analyse data to optimise growth.
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Write and deploy Micro:Bit code to control pumps, valves, and lighting, including automated dosing and lighting routines.
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Troubleshoot and debug hardware and software to build a reliable, fully functional hydroponic prototype.
Graduate with the skills to design, program, and operate sustainable, sensor‑driven hydroponic systems.
