Plants can transmit an 'SOS' for more water by SMS to farmers' cell phones or computers, thanks to a new sensor device created by two Israeli scientists.
The new device was unveiled Wednesday at an exhibition in the Arava held by the Volcanic Center of the Agriculture Ministry. It was developed after seven years of research by plant biologist Dr. Eran Raveh and ground science expert Dr. Aryeh Nadler.
The hammer-shaped device monitors electrical currents from where it is embedded in the tree trunk or plant roots and sends real-time alerts to a farmer's cell phone or computer when moisture is needed.
The researchers said they are hoping to develop a less expensive version of the technology for private home use, as well as for general commercial use. "We will reduce its size further, and distribute it to farmers at prices affordable to everyone," Raveh said, noting that until now, it has been difficult for farmers to monitor water levels in their plants.
Farmers from as far away as California have contacted the Volcanic Center to discuss applying the new technology to banana, mango and citrus groves, as well as to vineyards.
According to the researchers, the new device could reduce irrigation costs by up to 50 percent, an important consideration in a country that has just barely avoided what might yet become the worst drought in the region's recorded history.