WaterMark Soil Moisture Sensor - How to Install

Summary

This video provides a step-by-step guide on how to install the Watermark Soil Moisture Sensor, a tool used to measure moisture tension in turf and agricultural settings. The process begins with soaking the sensor overnight to ensure proper calibration and is followed by preparing the sensor’s installation site. Users are instructed to create a slurry to improve sensor contact with the soil, and then install the sensor at the desired depth. Proper care is emphasized during installation to avoid air pockets and ensure accurate moisture readings, whether using a Field Scout Soil Sensor Reader or a Watchdog Station.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Watermark Soil Moisture Sensor measures moisture tension in turf and agriculture.
• 😀 The sensor works with Spectrum Technologies Field Scout Soil Sensor Reader and Watchdog weather stations.
• 😀 Before installation, soak the sensor in irrigation water overnight or for 30 minutes in the morning.
• 😀 Soaking the sensor allows the sand grains to consolidate for better performance during installation.
• 😀 A fully saturated sensor should read 5 centibars or less.
• 😀 Create an access hole to the desired installation depth, using a standard soil sampler or auger.
• 😀 For deep installations, remove any rocks or gravel and prepare a thick slurry to aid sensor contact with soil.
• 😀 The slurry helps the sensor maintain good contact with the surrounding soil during installation.
• 😀 Use a dowel rod or other packing device to help facilitate sensor insertion into the access hole.
• 😀 After installation, backfill the hole with native soil and tamp it to avoid air pockets or channels.
• 😀 For sensor readers, keep the sensor plug and leads clean and dry between readings, ensuring proper function.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of the watermark soil moisture sensor?

The watermark soil moisture sensor is used to measure moisture tension in soil, which is essential for monitoring soil moisture levels in turf and agricultural applications.

Which devices are compatible with the watermark soil moisture sensor?

The watermark soil moisture sensor works with Spectrum Technologies' Field Scout Soil Sensor Reader, as well as the Watchdog Micro Mini and full weather stations.

Why is it important to soak the sensors before installation?

Soaking the sensors overnight in irrigation water ensures that the sand grains in the sensor consolidate, which improves the sensor's accuracy and performance when measuring soil moisture tension.

What should the sensor read when fully saturated?

When fully saturated, the sensor should read 5 centibars or less, indicating it is properly prepared for installation.

How should the sensor access hole be prepared for installation?

The sensor access hole should be made to the desired depth, using a standard soil sampler or rod for shallow installations, or a soil auger for deeper installations. The hole should be cleared of rocks and gravel.

What is the purpose of the thick slurry poured into the access hole?

The thick slurry helps to create good contact between the watermark sensor and the surrounding soil, ensuring more accurate moisture readings.

How can the insertion of the sensor into the slurry be facilitated?

The sensor can be inserted into the slurry more easily by using a dowel rod or another packing device to push it into place.

What should be done after inserting the sensor into the access hole?

After inserting the sensor, the hole should be backfilled with native soil, ensuring it is tamped well to prevent air pockets or channels where water might bypass the sensor.

How should the sensor leads or plugs be handled during use?

If using a soil sensor reader, it is important to keep the sensor plug or leads clean and dry between readings to maintain accurate measurements.

How do you connect the watermark sensor to a Watchdog station?

To connect the watermark sensor to a Watchdog station, plug the sensor into the appropriate channel on the station, ensuring that the channel is programmed for soil moisture readings.