Summary
A simple instrument has been devised for the comparative estimation of soil moisture under field conditions where more elaborate tecniques are not practicable. It consists of a solid length of porous clay, the size and shape of an ordinary pencil, pointed at one end and with a graduated scale along its length. The point is stuck into the soil, and the distance to which the water moves along the stem is used as a measure of the water-supplying power of the soil. Since it is not possible to calibrate in absolute units, the direct readings are used comparatively. Laboratory and field tests of the instrument are discussed.
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References
Bell, J. M. and Cameron, F. L., The flow of liquids through capillary spaces. J. Phys. Chem.10, 658 (1906).
Dimbleby, G. W., Soil regeneration on the North-east Yorkshire Moors. J. Ecol.40, 331 (1952).
Livingston, B. E. and Koketsu, R., The water-supplying power of the soil as related to the wilting of plants. Soil Sci.9, 469 (1920).
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Dimbleby, G.W. A simple method for the comparative estimation of soil water. Plant Soil 5, 143–154 (1954). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01343847
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01343847