The Importance of Soil Moisture Monitoring
There are many fine details that go into growing a successful crop. Farming is a highly technical business, and one of the key details in effective farming is soil quality. Every plant needs a precise measure of nutrition and hydration. Furthermore, the more often a plot of land is used, the more the soil will need routine maintenance. The importance of soil moisture monitoring is especially noteworthy, as it has a major impact on quite a few facets of operation sustainability and plant health.
What Is Soil Moisture?
Soil moisture refers to the water content within soil. This can be reflected in the weight of the soil when dry. Different soil types can retain varying amounts of water based on their makeup. This measurement is referred to as PAW, or plant available water. Certain plants, such as succulents, can survive on low-quality soil that does not readily hold water content. On the other hand, produce crops need highly absorbent soil that can provide constant water for healthy growth.
The Impact of Soil Moisture
When an acreage is well hydrated, the water should not simply drain through the soil, but rather, it should be evenly absorbed by the soil. This percentage of ideally constant water directly benefits plants. Moist soil is easier for young roots to push through, build out in strong networks, and draw nutrients from.
Having a steady supply of water between hydration times keeps crops from wilting, even in dry and hot weather. A quality irrigation plan will only be as effective as the quality of the soil. The importance of soil moisture monitoring can’t be understated, as wasted water and reduced crop turnover are manageable problems.
How To Monitor Soil Moisture
Besides being a strategically placed irrigation system, an agricultural water tank trailer is a simple way to manage soil moisture. Simply tow it with a trailer to disperse water to areas in need. Soil quality can also be measured in smaller-scale tests using a standalone trailer. Additionally, there are many technologically advanced ways to test the exact water content, such as tensometric and sensory tests. Erosion issues are also a sign of low moisture retention in soil, as the material is displaced rather than absorbing water readily.
Midwest Bio-Systems is proud to present a wide selection of soil care equipment. We strongly believe in the importance of onsite compost and hydration techniques to help farmers maintain healthy and absorptive soil. Explore our range of windrow turners and water tanks today. We also offer a range of seminars dedicated to teaching farmers the impact of composting on soil quality. Reach out to us for more information.