Water potential is the most fundamental and essential measurement in soil physics because it describes the force that drives water movement. Making good water potential measurements is largely a function of choosing the right instrument and using it skillfully. In an ideal world, there would be one instrument that simply and accurately measured water potential over its entire range from wet to dry. In the real world, there is an assortment of instruments, each with its unique personality. Each has its quirks, advantages, and disadvantages. Each has a well-defined range.
Below is a comparison of water potential instruments and the ranges they measure.
Figure 1. A range comparison of water potential instruments such as the HYPROP, WP4C, VSA, tensiometer, and TEROS 21 matric potential sensor
Choose the right instrument
In the webinar below, learn water potential instrument theory, including the challenges of measuring water potential and how to choose and use various water potential instruments.
Take our soil moisture master class
Six short videos teach you everything you need to know about soil water content and soil water potential—and why you should measure them together. Plus, master the basics of soil hydraulic conductivity.
Want to know more about measuring water potential in your unique application? METER scientists have over 100 years combined experience measuring soil hydraulic and physical properties.
Soil water potential is a crucial measurement for optimizing yield and stewarding the environment. If you’re not measuring it, you’re likely getting the wrong answer to your soil moisture questions.
Webinar: Using the salt balance to irrigate more efficiently
The global pressure for water conservation is being felt in every industry, especially in arid countries. In agriculture, the balance can be hard to find.
In this 30-minute webinar, Dr. Gaylon Campbell, Senior Research Scientist at METER for over 25 years, breaks down how to measure the water and salt balance and how to use these measurements to improve irrigation efficiency. He will discuss:
Climate change impacts on irrigated agriculture
Things that can and cannot increase water use efficiency in agriculture