Pi Pico Soil Water Timer
Raspberry Pi Pico Soil Moisture Water Timer: Build a Tiny Automated Plant Waterer
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Imagine your houseplant never wilting again. This tiny automated waterer uses a soil moisture probe to sense dryness and a peristaltic pump to deliver a precise 5‑second splash of water — all commanded by a Raspberry Pi Pico. It’s a hands‑on introduction to automation that’s simple enough for a five‑year‑old to help build, with soldering done by an adult. Perfect for curious minds exploring real‑world electronics.
What You'll Build
You’ll assemble a compact, self‑contained irrigation module that sits beside any small planter. Insert the moisture sensor into the soil; when the reading dips below a set threshold, the Pi Pico instantly activates the pump via the L298N driver. The silicone tube routes water from any glass or bottle, delivering a precise 5‑second dose. The result is a plant that stays perfectly hydrated without manual watering — and a working science model that demonstrates closed‑loop control.
What You'll Learn
- How to read analog moisture data with a soil sensor and Pico’s ADC pins in MicroPython.
- How to control a DC peristaltic pump using an L298N motor driver without relays.
- How to write threshold‑based logic that triggers a timed 5‑second pump activation.
- How to solder components onto a prototyping board, including diodes for reverse‑polarity protection.
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Raspberry Pi Pico | 1 |
| Soil Moisture Sensor | 1 |
| L298N Motor Driver Module | 1 |
| Mini Peristaltic Pump | 1 |
| Silicone Tube (30 cm) | 1 |
| 1N4007 Diode | 3 |
| 10kΩ Resistor | 5 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 2 |
| 5V 2A Power Supply Unit | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Created for curious learners aged 5–15 with adult oversight during soldering, this kit shines in ATL Tinkering Labs, CBSE Class 9–10 science projects, and maker clubs. B.Tech ECE/EEE first‑year students will appreciate a zero‑fuss introduction to sensor‑actuator systems, and Smart India Hackathon participants can prototype irrigation solutions rapidly. Even parents looking to teach coding‑plus‑hardware will find the AI companion a patient guide.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Our AI build companion is available 24/7 via the QR code on the box. It walks you through each step with text, images, and code. If you prefer human help, reach out on WhatsApp — our support team responds within a few hours.
Do I need to know Python to program the Raspberry Pi Pico?
No previous coding is needed. The AI companion supplies all the MicroPython code and explains it line by line. For children under 10, a parent or teacher can assist with typing, but the logic is simple to follow.
Can this kit be used for a CBSE Class 10 science exhibition?
Absolutely. The working model demonstrates sensor‑based automation, a core concept in the curriculum. It’s a compact, reliable exhibit that shows practical electronics and real‑time decision‑making.
What if the pump doesn’t dispense water correctly?
Check the silicone tube orientation — peristaltic pumps work by compressing the tube. Ensure no kinks, and prime the tube with water first. The AI guide includes a troubleshooting checklist, and we’re on WhatsApp to help in minutes.
Soil probe below threshold triggers peristaltic pump on Pico for 5 seconds. Tiny automated plant waterer.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items