Measurement of Soil Moisture

Abstract

The water present in the interstices of the soil matrix constitutes the soil moisture. It is one of the most important constituents of the soil. The water stored in the root zone is used by the plants for photosynthesis, evapotranspiration and building of its tissues. Soil properties such as soil moisture content, texture, structure density, fertility, salinity aeration, drainage and temperature have a pronounced effect on growth and yield responses of a crop. The chapter describes the methods and techniques for determination of soil moisture content and expression of soil moisture content.