Soil Moisture
Soil moisture, also known as soil water, is the water present in the soil and is one of the most crucial factors influencing soil fertility and plant growth. Measuring soil moisture is essential for proper irrigation scheduling and maintaining optimal soil conditions.
What is the Best Measure of Moisture?
The best measure of soil moisture considers the availability of water to plants. Some common measures include:
- Volumetric Water Content: Expresses the volume of water as a percentage of the total soil volume.
- Tensiometer: Measures the suction force exerted by the soil on water and can provide an indirect estimate of soil moisture content.
- Neutron Probe: A device that emits neutrons and measures the number reflected back to estimate soil moisture content.
- Electrical Conductivity: Measures the electrical conductivity of the soil solution, which is influenced by moisture content.
Soil Chemistry
Soil chemistry encompasses the chemical composition of the soil and how it affects soil properties and plant growth. Understanding soil chemistry is essential for developing effective soil management practices.
Key Components of Soil Chemistry
The main components of soil chemistry include:
- Soil pH: A measure of acidity or alkalinity, influencing the availability of nutrients to plants.
- Nutrient Availability: The presence and availability of essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are crucial for plant growth.
- Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC): The ability of soil particles to hold positively charged ions, which influences soil fertility and nutrient retention.
- Organic Matter: Composed of decomposed plant and animal material, it improves soil structure, moisture retention, and nutrient availability.