YPIE Scientist: Giovanna Leiva

Research: Automated pH Regulation in Lactuca sativa Hydroponic System Using Arduino-Controlled pH Pumps

Mentor: Courtney-Grace Neizer, Yonkers Partners In Education

Research Location: Leiva Household

Awards: Somers 2024 - 3rd Place Winner - Medicine and Health, WESEF 2026 Participant, Regeneron STS 2026 Participant, UAlbany Invitational 2026

Abstract:

The rapid growth of the global population is widening the hunger gap between food production and the amount needed to feed the world's growing population. However, traditional soil-based agriculture faces challenges such as climate change, urbanization, and environmental concerns related to agrochemical use. Hydroponics is a soil-less cultivation method where plants grow in nutrient-rich water solutions, which offers a sustainable alternative by improving water efficiency, increasing crop yield and reducing pesticide use. An important factor in hydroponic systems is maintaining optimal pH levels which can directly affect nutrient availability and plant growth. Not only is manual pH monitoring time consuming and inefficient, it is also prone to error and can negatively impact plant growth. Therefore, this study aimed to design and test a low-cost Arduino-based automated pH control system for a deep water culture (DWC) Lactuca sativa (lettuce) hydroponic setup. The system used a pH sensor with two peristaltic pumps to automatically deliver acid or base solutions, maintaining the pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Eight lettuce plants were grown over 13 weeks, with plant growth, leaf length, and pH stability monitored throughout the experiment. The system was able to fix pH shifts and promoted healthy plant growth, with the tallest plant reaching 12 inches and others showing consistent development without signs of nutrient deficiency. These results demonstrate that affordable, do-it-yourself automation can maintain stable hydroponic conditions, minimize labor and human error, and provide support for small-scale growers and educational projects.

About this Scientist:   

Giovanna Leiva is currently a senior at Yonkers High School who will be obtaining an IB certificate. She plans to attend Hamilton College to study psychology and biology. After college, she will plan to attend medical school and pursue her dream to become a psychiatrist.

Presentation Slides