Testing and the sandbox

• tests/: a pytest suite (pip install -r requirements-test.txt, then pytest tests/ -q). It boots a real Home Assistant core in-process and fast-forwards time through every gate, watchdog, interruption, sensor dropout, multi-zone pump handoff and season scenario.
• scripts/simulate_season.py: a fast pure-Python season simulator (--scenario dry, monsoon or mixed) for sanity-checking behaviour over weeks or months.
• sandbox/: a Docker Compose setup for a fully isolated Home Assistant with simulated valves, pumps, rain, temperature and soil probes you control from sliders. Use it to try the real UI before touching a real valve.