How Can We Measure Soil Moisture?

• Soil moisture probes use electrical resistance to measure moisture levels in the soil by measuring soil tension.
• Soil tension is how tightly water clings to soil particles. The units for soil tension are called ‘bars’. One bar is equal to one atmosphere of pressure.
• Measuring soil moisture helps determine when and how much to water crops and other plants to maximize irrigation efficiency.
• Too much or not enough water can have adverse effects on a plant.

Above: A soil moisture probe connected to a solar-powered garden station with data transmitter