> Seems to me if you want to do this, you're missing out on the experience. Push a button, get a prize is not very rewarding in the long run.
I disagree. I installed Home Assistant, got some smart plugs and ESP chips and bought a solenoid. Sitting on the deck and seeing the sprinkler go at sundown +30mins or getting the Slack alert as it turns on and off is very satisfying.
There is plenty of hard work to do, but I really believe that automating the watering is more efficient when done by my automation. It was quite inexpensive too.
I love the experience but hate feeling chained to my garden when I want to take a weeks long trip into the wilderness. I primarily want to automate looking after my garden in my absence.
I disagree. I installed Home Assistant, got some smart plugs and ESP chips and bought a solenoid. Sitting on the deck and seeing the sprinkler go at sundown +30mins or getting the Slack alert as it turns on and off is very satisfying.
There is plenty of hard work to do, but I really believe that automating the watering is more efficient when done by my automation. It was quite inexpensive too.