All probes offer measurement capabilities that are unique in the market. Among other things, they can measure volumetric water content and water potential, which are the two most relevant soil parameters from a hydrological standpoint. Water potential is the force, measured in kilopascals, that a plant’s roots must exert to extract water from the soil. In sandy soil, less force is required, whereas in clay soil, more force is needed.

Both measurements can be used to generate the soil suction curve, which helps us understand soil dynamics and classify the soil according to the twelve standard USDA soil textures. Coming soon to the DENODL® App, we’ll be able to view the soil particle size distribution, derived from the suction curve.