Moisture Meter

Soil moisture meter includes a 5 inch soil probe to take the guess work out of your watering needs. Easy reading display gauge. Measures water at the root level to prevent over watering.

Plants need the adequate moisture for optimum growth. The Rapitest Moisture Meter accurately measures the moisture down deep at the root level. Although the surface of soil may appear dry, how much moisture is at the roots is all important to prevent over watering. No batteries needed

The rapitest Moisture Meter is an invaluable tool for the hobby gardener.The meter is supplied ready for use. It does not require batteries.

 

 

1. Insert the probe, vertically if possible, into the pot half way between the edge of the container and the plant stem. In potted plants, the depth of penetration will be influenced by the size of the container. Probe deeper in a large pot, shallower in a smaller one. A good rule of thumb is to probe about 1/2 to 2/3 of the way down from the surface. For very large containers (over 12" in diameter) place the probe closer to the stem (about 1/3 of the way from the stem to the edge of the pot.)
2. While pushing the probe into the soil you may note that the meter reading varies as the probe moves downward.This is because the moisture conditions are not uniform. Certain types of soil have a tendency to create moisture pockets, which might give you a false high reading in one small area of the soil.We recommend you take at least two readings in order to confirm you findings. (Note: probing aerates the soil, which is good for the plant.)
3. Note your meter reading.
4. Remove the probe from the soil by pulling the probe handle, not the wire.Tugging the wire may, in time, result in a malfunction.
5. Wipe the probe completely clean with a soft cloth or tissue before taking another reading or when finished.

Important: The meter is designed and constructed for test readings. The probe should not be left in contact with moisture for extended periods of time.

 

 

1. The numbers from 1 to 10 signify increasing wetness and no plants can tolerate the two extremes for long. In the table provided, plants are listed alphabetically by their popular names. Check the name of the plant being tested, and look at the guide number listed in the column headed MOISTURE. If the meter reading you received is higher than the guide number, DO NOT WATER. If the number is the same or lower, water as directed. EXAMPLE:You are checking a Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia) The meter reads 4, the guide number is 1.You do not water!
2. The asterisks in the table indicate how often each plant likes water: * Check once a week, ** Check every 4 to 5 days, *** Check every 3 days. It is important to adhere to the FREQUENCY intervals.
3. SPECIAL Watering Needs are marked with Roman numerals. They indicate:

I Spray foliage daily
II Never let soil dry out
III Keep soil moist but never soggy
IV Keep soil wet at all times
V Allow soil to dry between watering.
VI Soil should remain dry 4–5 days
VII Reduce watering during dormant period.
VIII Water from beneath (in saucer.) Never wet foliage.

 

 

Please keep in mind when using the information in the Watering Guide:

1. Pot Size: Small pots dry out faster than large ones, so plants in small pots may need to be checked and watered more frequently.
2. Type of Pot: Soil in clay pots dries out faster than soil in plastic containers because baked clay is more porous.
3. Light: Plants in full sunlight dry out faster than use more water than those in partial sunlight or indirect light.
4. Location: Plants close to a radiator or heater will dry out more quickly.
5. Overwatering: This term refers to an excessive frequency of watering, not to the amount of water at a given time. The result or overwatering is, inevitably, rootrot. Cacti and Succulents: These plants store water and require less attention than other plants. From March to September, do not allow the soil to dry out. Water when the meter reads 3. From October to February (dormant period) water moderately every 2–3 weeks, just enough to prevent shriveling. Always water with tepid water. Cold water can severely shock plants.

The greatest disservice you can do for your lawn is to water too lightly. Too little water will not accommodate grass roots. If light watering occurs frequently, the roots will start to climb toward the surface, seeking moisture. This results in “burning”, particularly in hot weather. The heaviest root concentrations are usually 2 ½” to 3” below the ground level of your lawn. You should therefore, probe 3” below the surface. A meter reading of 5 would indicate a satisfactory watering.

Provided that your lawn has good drainage, it is virtually impossible to over-water. Please note: sometimes, when using your moisture meter outside to check lawn and flowerbeds and vegetable gardens, you may encounter considerable resistance while probing. It is possible the tip of the probe has hit a stone or some other obstruction in the ground. Continuing to exert undue pressure will cause damage to the bimetallic tip, so, remove the probe and start over again elsewhere.