Soil Moisture and Soil Water Sustainability

Soil moisture, a crucial indicator of soil health, is extensively measured to optimize agricultural practices and sustain soil water.

What is the Best Measure of Moisture?

The ideal soil moisture measurement considers the following factors:

  • Availability: The moisture available to plants
  • Accuracy: Precise measurement of moisture content
  • Timeliness: Real-time or near real-time data
  • Cost-effectiveness: Practical and affordable methods

Soil Moisture Measurement Techniques

  • Tensiometers: Measure soil water potential
  • Capacitance probes: Detect changes in capacitance due to soil moisture
  • Neutron probes: Use radioactive sources to determine water content
  • Remote sensing: Analyze soil moisture from satellite imagery

Soil Water Sustainability

Sustaining soil water involves:

  • Soil conservation: Preventing soil erosion and loss of water
  • Crop selection: Choosing drought-tolerant crops and cover crops
  • Irrigation optimization: Applying water only when necessary
  • Mulching: Retaining moisture and suppressing weeds
  • Perennial systems: Utilizing deep-rooted plants to access deeper moisture
  • Water harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater for irrigation

Benefits of Optimal Soil Moisture

  • Improved plant growth and yield
  • Reduced water loss through evaporation
  • Enhanced soil structure and aeration
  • Increased nutrient availability to plants
  • Prevention of soil compaction and erosion