Learn what the coordinator, routers, end devices, MQTT topics, and availability each do.
Zigbee2MQTT coordinators, sensors, and devices
A step-by-step path from a USB coordinator and Zigbee2MQTT installation to pairing, compatibility checks, mesh coverage, and GrowerHub connection.
Where to start
A first Zigbee setup needs an always-on computer or Raspberry Pi, a coordinator with suitable firmware, and one device. Brand alone does not establish compatibility: check the exact model, Zigbee2MQTT support, and exposed capabilities.
An always-on Windows computer and a USB stick with coordinator firmware are enough for a first setup.
Pair near the coordinator and verify exposes, updates, and availability before moving the sensor.
Choose your first step
| Situation | Where to start | Why |
|---|---|---|
| You are creating a network from scratch | A Z-Stack or Ember USB coordinator and one sensor | This separates basic Zigbee2MQTT setup from later mesh coverage issues. |
| A previously working device disappeared | Power, last_seen, availability, and logs | Removing and re-pairing too early can hide the original fault and create a new entity. |
| You are choosing a sensor or smart plug | The exact model ID in the Zigbee2MQTT catalog | Identical enclosures may expose different measurements and commands. |
Guides in this section
A step-by-step Zigbee sensor setup: exact model, pairing and interview, temperature and humidity exposes, availability, placement, and data verification.
A step-by-step Zigbee2MQTT setup for Windows: USB coordinator, COM port, Z-Stack or Ember, GrowerHub configuration, startup and troubleshooting.
What to check when a Zigbee device is not found, disappears, or stops pairing after removal: reset, permit join, power, logs, availability, and mesh coverage.
A plain-language Zigbee2MQTT diagram: what the coordinator, routers, MQTT broker, topics, exposes, and availability do, and how GrowerHub uses them.
A minimum set of sensors for a greenhouse and automatic watering: microclimate, soil moisture, leakage, water consumption, light and communication diagnostics.
How to check the compatibility of a Zigbee device in Zigbee2MQTT: what fields it sends, what commands it accepts and how to control availability.
When is it worth choosing a ready-made Zigbee Hub, how does it differ from a DIY coordinator and what requirements are important for a greenhouse, box and automatic watering.
The roles Zigbee devices play and why coordinators, routers, battery sensors and actuators matter in a reliable greenhouse.
When Zigbee socket is suitable for lamp, fan or pump, which loads are dangerous and what to check before automation.
Practical selection of Zigbee devices for the greenhouse: microclimate, leakage, sockets, relays, network coverage, compatibility and testing before automation.
Where to install the Zigbee leakage sensor, how to connect it with the emergency stop of the pump and why it is a basic element of safe automatic watering.
Comparison of Zigbee and Wi-Fi sensors for plants: autonomy, network, latency, locality, cost and ease of maintenance.
Connect your first Zigbee device
Create a GrowerHub connection, use the provided MQTT configuration, and view discovered device metrics in one dashboard.