Kitronik Smart Greenhouse Kit for the BBC micro:bit

Kitronik Smart Greenhouse Kit for the BBC micro:bit | 5699

Unlock plant science with code using the Kitronik Smart Greenhouse Kit for BBC micro:bit.

The Kitronik Smart Greenhouse Kit for the BBC micro:bit teaches how plants and their environment interact. Learn to monitor conditions and build simple automated responses.

The kit includes a two-part plastic greenhouse, Kitronik Environmental Control Board, water pump, Kitronik ZIP Stick, and Mini Prong soil moisture sensor, plus 5 crocodile clips, a ZIP extension cable, and a small screwdriver. Add a micro:bit, seeds, and water to begin.

Step-by-step instructions are included, along with seven online MakeCode tutorials covering sensing, reactions, visual feedback, scheduling, and data logging.

The Kitronik Environmental Control Board connects to the BBC micro:bit (V1 & V2), reads sensors, and drives outputs such as a pump, fan, servo, or heater pad.

Use the MakeCode editor with Kitronik’s custom blocks. Add them via “Extensions” by searching “Kitronik,” or visit the GitHub repository.

Cress is a common starter crop because it grows quickly and needs little care. Other fast growers, such as sprouting white mustard or micro-greens, also work well. Choose a suitable soil for the best results.

Notes

• BBC micro:bit sold separately: BBC micro:bit V2.
• This kit is not waterproof. If the board gets wet, power off and allow to dry fully.
• Mini Prong Moisture Sensor electrodes will slowly degrade in damp conditions. See general safety advice (PDF).

Features

• Build automated growing projects that react to environmental changes.
• Compatible with micro:bit V1 and V2.
• Includes detailed assembly and coding instructions.
• Powered by 3 × AA batteries or a DC power supply.
• Environmental Control Board:
  • Programmable sensor inputs controlling board outputs.
  • Onboard BME280 sensor (temperature, pressure, humidity) and Real-Time Clock (RTC).
  • Piezo buzzer, two 1A outputs (e.g., pump, heater pad, or fan), three status ZIP LEDs, ZIP LED expansion, and servo output.
  • Breakout pads for 3V, GND, and three micro:bit pins via croc-clip connections.
  • Power via 3×AA holder or 2.1 mm DC jack; on/off switch with LED indicator.
• Seven MakeCode tutorials introduce all board features.
• Great for fast-growing crops like cress, sprouting white mustard, and micro-greens.

Box Contents

• 2 × moulded plastic greenhouse enclosure parts
• Kitronik Environmental Control Board for micro:bit
• Water pump
• Kitronik ZIP Stick
• Mini Prong Moisture Sensor
• 5 × crocodile leads
• ZIP extension cable
• Screwdriver
• User guide booklet

Requirements

• Web browser and internet connection
• One of:
  • BBC micro:bit V2
  • BBC micro:bit Starter Pack V2
• 3 × AA batteries or a plug-in power supply
• Seeds (e.g., cress) and soil

Resources

• Environmental Control Board datasheet (PDF)
• Mini Prong general safety advice (PDF)
• Example MakeCode project (ZIP) – monitors temperature, humidity, soil moisture, and uses ZIP LEDs
• MakeCode tutorials:
  • Visual Thermometer
  • ZIP LED Hue
  • Auto-watering
  • Grow light
  • Timed watering
  • Water level sensing
  • Data logging
• Adding a solar panel to the Environmental Control Board
• Tech Talks: live stream playback