Best Overall
Xlux Soil Moisture Meter
Best Bang for the Buck
Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter
Best for Deep Pots
Xlux Long Probe Deep Use Soil Moisture Meter
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land moisture metre are simplegardeningtools that include sensing probe that detect the grade of dampness in soil . They ’re touted as the estimable predictors for watering , so to see if they hold out up to the hype , we tested the most popular ones available .
To judge their ability to detect wet differences , we test ten territory moisture meters in various growing medium , including pot grime , poop from the garden , peat moss , and compost . We used them in bone - dry soil and then water the medium to see how well the meters detected extra moisture . After reviewing our test termination , our top weft is theXlux Soil Moisture Meterfor its versatile indoor / outdoor capabilities , analog design , 10 - point scale , and ability to provide instant wet Reading without standardisation , justly out of the boxwood .
Keep reading to discover more about selecting a grease moisture time and witness out the pros and con of the following models , and which products earned a spot in our roundup of the good soil moisture meters on the grocery store .
Soil Moisture Meters Comparison Chart
Our Top Picks
To qualify for a spot in this batting order of the good grease wet meters , the adopt models all had to be made from lineament materials , be durable enough to insert into semi - dry territory without the investigation bending , and be loose to read . We tested a range of meters , from simple parallel type to digital ones with accompany LCD displays . While soil moisture metre are relatively straightforward gardening tools , some are better suitable to specific develop situations than others . The following model all encounter or exceeded our expectations — find out the pro and cons of each one in our reviews .
The Xlux Soil Moisture Meter is the image of simpleness — and that ’s one of the reason we sleep together it . While it has a 10 - degree scale , it ’s a lot simpler to look at the coloring - steganography on the telephone dial . Red for wry , green for moist , and blue for wet .
Although it lack bells and tin whistle , this metre offers exact readings , and the investigation is firmly tie . It also does n’t require shelling or charging when take away a test , making it ready to use correctly from the box .
While some gardeners may need the higher arcdegree of truth that comes from a calibrate digital metre , the sturdiness and repose of use of the Xlux meter make it a achiever in our book .
What our examiner says:“I tested [ the Xlux grime moisture m ] on various types of soil and dampness levels , and it responded accurately . ”–Glenda Taylor , Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Xlux filth wet meter atAmazon .
There ’s no pauperization to spend a lot for a good soil moisture meter , as we find when test this simple , cheap parallel exemplar from Gouevn . It does n’t add up with fancy bells and whistles , but it does accurately measure soil wet levels . In tests , we were impressed with the large and easy - to - read display . Like other analog meter , it features color coding to show the approximate land moisture at a glance .
The back of the packaging also features a handy lacrimation guide for more than 200 indoor and out-of-door plants . This was helpful , and we considered laminating it to keep as a templet . For example , we checked the recommended moisture level for our mock orange bush — the guide tell us it fall within the 4–5 ( dark-green ) section of the measure . We then determined how much we call for to irrigate every week to keep the soil around that bush at the proper moistness .
We find the 7.7 - inch probe to be highly sore and accurate when we try various grime wet levels and the unit requires no batteries or charge for right surgical procedure . All in all , we were quenched with this Gouevn as being budget - favorable and build to last .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Get the Gouevn dirt moisture meter atAmazon .
Watering grandiloquent potted plant can be knotty when gardeners ca n’t tell if the soil deeper in the pot is systematically as moist . We ’ve melt into problems in the past with tall muckle that do n’t enfeeble well , leaving us to consider we needed to add water — when in realness , the filth in the bottom part of the potentiometer was too soggy . We notice the Xlux Long Probe Soil Humidity Meter was just the ticket to solve this trouble .
Like the other Xlux poser that took top charge in this batting order , this beat also sport an well-fixed - to - read analogue telephone dial and color - steganography for determining wet at a glance . The chief difference is that this version has a slightly over 12 - column inch - long investigation for deep introduction into the soil of our potted flora . We expose that one of our potted perennial bushes was n’t draining well : The grease at the airfoil seemed juiceless , but a foot down , it was sopping wet . This give us the information we needed to transplant the bush and supercede the non - draining soil at the bottom of the dope with better - enfeeble soil .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
The probe is on the thin side , so we did n’t endeavor to insert it into hard soil for concern of flex it . But it proved enough substantial enough for inserting into pots with commercial grow mixes .
Get the Xlux long soil moisture metre atAmazon .
Best for Compost
Reotemp Garden and Compost Moisture Meter
If compost material is too dry , it could take a foresighted time to decompose , but if it ’s soaking wet , it might attract pests . cognize this , we were eager to put this Reotemp moisture meter through its paces , thanks to its long 15 - inch investigation peculiarly suited to screen a compost slew .
Before using the Reotemp meter , it must be calibrated , which proved simple enough . It required us to get a sample distribution of compost we feel was of optimum dampness , insert the investigation , and then deform a pocket-size flat - head jailor on the back of the box to 5 on the telephone dial . After that , we were capable to take recitation of both shallow and deep compost batch . If the meter reading was low than 5 , we added water ; if over 5 , we appropriate the compost to air out a bite .
The lowering - duty investigation on this Reotemp model is thickset than an average wet metre to preclude bend when testing dumb compost and heavy soils . This meter is power by one AAA barrage , which is already in blank space inside the metre box . It only read moisture , but it does so accurately , and the telephone dial is place on the top of the meter , so it ’s easy to see .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Reotemp moisture beat onAmazon , The Home Depot , orKmart .
Best Digital
Ecowitt Soil Moisture Tester
Upon get to the box seat contain the Ecowitt Soil Moisture Reader , our first cerebration was how unlike the investigation looked compare to all the other tester investigation . Instead of a longsighted pear-shaped cylinder , the investigation on the Ecowitt was flat and short — just 3 inches long .
We inserted a AA bombardment into the fundament of the investigation ’s grip and another one in the back of the small display covert . The LCD screen recoil to biography , and we set the time using the buttons on the side of the display . Then , we insert the probe into pot soil . The display registered the wet level as a percentage . While the probe was still in the dirt , we pour some water into the pot — sure enough , the percentage of moisture increase on the display . What ’s more , we essay the range of the probe ’s signal and were able-bodied to get a absolved sign from as far as 200 feet out .
This ready to hand little gadget prove well suitable to monitor indoor growing situations , but it did n’t seem perdurable or long enough for outside status . Also , we would worry that pelting might pass through the probe ’s housing because the battery compartment is not sealed .
Photo: Amazon
What our tester says:“I tested the Ecowitt probe on several potted plant , and it proved to be accurate , but because the probe is so short , I do n’t urge using it in the garden . ”–Glenda Taylor , Product Reviews examiner and author
Get the Ecowitt soil moisture meter atAmazon .
Best pH Model
Kensizer 2-in-1 Soil Moisture/pH Meter
get an accurate moisture recital is all important , but know whether the filth is too acidic or overly alkaline is also vital for some garden plants . We were eager to learn if our rhododendron were in grunge with a worthy pH storey , and we believe the Kensizer gave us the answer we were looking for .
As with all the other meter , we put the Kensizer through the complete battery of moisture tests , and it appeared to be extremely accurate .
When we prove the pH function , we were middling impressed . In our blueberry maculation , where we ’ve added a high amount of soil acidifiers , the Kensizer gave us a reading of about 5.5 , which is right in cable with what we expected . The soil in the rhododendron bed measured 6.5 , which is too alkaline for the shrub , so we now plan to take steps to help acetify that soil .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Kensizer 3 - in-1 soil moisture beat atAmazonorWalmart .
Best Heavy-Duty
Gain Express Soil pH & Moisture Meter
We found that most ground wet testers come with inviolable , but not exceptionally husky , probes . Then we opened the package and contain the Gain Express Moisture Meter out . Wow !
The probe on the Gain Express is nearly a ft farsighted and full ⅜ inch in diam . It ’s not only the thickest investigation of any of the model we tested , but it was also firmly attached to the time itself ; probes on other models , although usable , did n’t have the same level of reward .
The Gain Express garden soil weewee monitor measures both moisture and pH levels , and we were able to insert it more than 8 inch deep into the soil of the lawn , making it well suitable for examination lawn , fields , and rear garden beds .
Photo: Amazon
The aim is slenderly different from other meter in that we had to tug and concord a button on the side of the unit to get a moisture indication . Once we let up on the button , the meter default to the pH level . Both the wet and pH grade meters seemed very exact , and the Gain Express add up with a templet on the back that details optimal pH levels for more than a dozen mutual works , let in veg and flowers .
Get the Gain Express land wet m atAmazon .
Best for Indoors
Ippinka Sustee Aquameter, Set of 4
These four small Ippinka wet detector do n’t come with dials or digital displays , but we establish them to be quite beneficial at monitoring the moisture level in indoor potted plant . The detector pens come packaged together in plastic wrapper with no instructions whatsoever , so we had to log on to the seller ’s site to figure out how to use them .
Fortunately , it could n’t be simpler ! All we had to do was insert one of the sensor pen into the soil in a potted plant life and wait to see if a bantam essence inside a transparent windowpane turned profane . If it did , the plant life had plenty of moisture . If it persist whitened , it was time to urine .
We switched the pens from pots with plastered grime to pots with ironic mix , and sure enough , they changed coloring to become the dampness . It does n’t get any simpler than that .
Photo: Amazon
What our tester says:“I recommend these fiddling pens for those who require to tell at a glance whether it ’s fourth dimension to water . ”–Glenda Taylor , merchandise Reviews tester and author
Get the Ippinka soil moisture meter pen atAmazon .
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Soil Moisture Meters
grunge moisture metre are comparatively elementary to use , so our testing focused on how well they differentiated between various degree of soil dampness and how well they were made .
Probe stability is vital — we were uncoerced to accept a slight amount of play in the probe , but the meter was eliminated if it was shaky . Multifunction meters offered an additional function or two , usually totest soil pH levelsor light source strength . While we awarded excess points for these functions if they were accurate , we did not take off full stop if they were just so - so because our testing aimed to set how well the meters detected wet .
We subjected the meter to a range of ground admixture , include garden soil and unlike potting territory mixing , and we essay them on os - dry soil as well as soak cockeyed soil . We present full point free-base on a 0 - to-4 - point rubric system for various aspects . At the end of the testing , we bestow up the spot and used them to facilitate make up one’s mind the award for this card . While all these measure differ slightly , all have earned a spot for accuracy in measure wet and are made to last .
Photo: Amazon
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Soil Moisture Meter
A quality plant moisture metre is a worthwhile investing for the well - being of both indoor and out-of-door plants — and luckily , they need n’t be expensive to be beneficial . The best soil moisture meters are accurate and sturdy , provide exact information in nigh any soil condition . When choose a wet cadence , look at its intended function , display character , maturate metier , and any extra measurement or feature article that might help make maintaining plants easier .
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
A territory moisture meter can be a helpful puppet for growing any plant , from a potted fiddle - leaf Libyan Islamic Group to a burgeoning vegetable patch . Many soil wet meters are equipped for bothindoor gardeningand outdoor use , but there are a few features to take into consideration . investigation duration , which ranges from about 6 to 15 inches and sometimes longer , is one factor in ascertain which wet meter is correct for an indoor or outdoor garden .
Houseplantstend to be smaller and rest in loose pot dirt . An indoor industrial plant wet meter with a short probe may be suitable for indoor potted plants , which are ordinarily not very bass . Short stain wet probe are easier to store , and durability is less of a concern with indoor use .
For outside plants , lastingness may be a more important feature . think a meter with a sturdy build — a model with a investigation at least ¼ inch thick should be more immune to twist , or one with a stainless blade housing instead of charge plate . A longer probe is typically better suited for outdoor exercise , especially utile for sure jobs , like check a mickle ofcompost . Probes on a compost moisture meter are often thicker , too , at about 5/16 of an inch in diam .
Photo: Amazon
Analog vs. Digital
grease moisture metre follow in analog and digital modelling . An analog meter is a cost - efficient choice for the average nurseryman . These m are simple and often show their moisture recital on a 1 to 10 scale , sometimes coloration - befool for dim-witted viewing . linear meters do n’t postulate batteries and are ready to habituate aright out of the box .
Digital wet meters can include a range of convenient features , but they do come at a cost . While pricy than a simple analog beat , they can be more accurate , easier to take , and may have remote or smart connective capabilities . Digital grease wet metre will require battery or USB charging , and a wifi soil moisture sensor will require an net connection .
Regardless of the moisture m type , a clear and leisurely - to - read display is helpful . Some meters have an angled video display on the top of the unit to make it easier to view while it is in the grease .
Photo: Amazon
Soil Type and Texture
The soil type and texture can tempt the choice of a soil moisture meter . For laborious ground types , like heavier cadaver dirt , look for a measure with a very sturdy investigation . Although most meters have aluminum or brand probes , some flimsier and thin options can deform or dent in unvoiced stain . A probe that ’s at least ¼ inch thick is a better choice for these soil textures .
As any soil moisture capacity meter can treat the looser potting grease used for indoor plant , the probe is a greater worry for outside plants . However , regardless of the metre type , it ’s beneficial not to thrust the beat into land with a peck of force . If user detect considerable electric resistance in any soil type or grain , remove the metre and render a unlike smear .
Also keep in mind that high level of atomic number 11 in territory can have inaccurate readings , and it may be helpful to invest in asoil test kitif plant are fail to fly high . When using a soil moisture metre in saltiness - affect soils , the time can expose the moisture level as higher than it really is . In these case , physically finger the soil can facilitate see if the reading is on the right track .
Measurements
Multifunctional soil moisture m can let in a range of measuring feature such as pH and light checking part . These handy meters can provide a snap of soil conditions that warn about potential problem . extra sensors can measure pH layer , light-headed levels , and ambient temperature .
Accuracy
Accuracy is plain of note value in a moisture beat . For the most accurate reading , look at a digital moisture meter . Some digital meters show grunge moisture levels to a denary peak or percentage , making them more exact than an analog metre with a 1 - to-10 scale .
Calibration features also can serve with accuracy . A user - graduate m allow the standardization to be adjust for different condition , such as for horticulture orcomposting , humidity condition , or to the specific moisture needs of certain plants .
Also consider the appropriate investigation duration for the intended use . For representative , a compost moisture meter tends to be much longer than a moisture metre for plants . Most metre have moisture sensor at the end of the probe — not along the entire length — so the veracious length is crucial for an accurate reading . The probe must be long enough to reach the area to be measured . Probe distance can range from a few column inch to as prospicient as 24 inches .
Smart Technology
Like many gadget , dirt moisture meters can admit smart connectivity features . Smart territory moisture meters plug in via Bluetooth to a smart gadget to display finding . This opens the door to a variety of supernumerary feature , like cover a plant ’s chronicle and progress and making tailored suggestions for each industrial plant .
For ease of role , these smart machine often have a sensor that sits inside the works at all times . Users can then connect to the sensor gimmick via an app to check on grunge conditions . Beyond just measuring moisture level , most of these devices measure light level , temperature , and fertilizer level , entropy that can point agency to improve works care .
Advantages of Using a Soil Moisture Meter
It ’s no secret that plants require water supply to survive , but the amount of water also make a big difference . While you could stick a fingerbreadth in the grunge and seek to guess the moisture degree from tone , it wo n’t yield very precise results . This method also is n’t effective when it comes to mystifying flora root orcompost piles .
Using a grease wet meter takes the dead reckoning out of tearing plants and provides an accurate moisture grade reading . These affordable and simple - to - usegardening toolscan help pot plants or garden bed flourish . A soil moisture beat is deserving the investing for the take after reasons :
FAQs
assist your immature pollex with a soil wet meter . These handheld equipment are a pocket-size but useful puppet for gardeners , providing a tangible measure of grime moisture levels . The following response to some frequently necessitate questions may further help shoppers select the better filth wet meter .
Q. Are soil moisture meters accurate?
Yes , a soil wet meter provides a numerical bill , which is more raw than the speck - and - find method many gardener use . Most inexpensive analogue meter provide a meter on a 1 - to-10 scale , which is accurate enough for the modal gardener . For an even more accurate interpretation , weigh a digital moisture meter that provide a reading to the close denary point or shows a percent .
The ideal soil wet level depends on the type of plant being grown . Some plants thrive with very little moisture ( as low as 1 or 2 on a 10 - point scale ) , while others prefer very dampish ground ( 8 or mellow ) .
It count on the model , but most meters on the marketplace should not be left in the soil . Although moisture meter are made to withstand some wear and split , leave the equipment in the grease can do it to corrode and degrade . Unless otherwise specified , it is best to houseclean and put in a wet meter after each usage . If leaving it in the filth is an authoritative lineament for your garden , look for one specifically designed to stay in place .
Watering plantsdaily depend on whether they ’re indoors or outside , as well as temperature and humidity levels . In general , indoor plant life involve 1 inch of water per hebdomad . Outdoor potted plants in cheery , spicy conditions may involve to be watered daily to stay healthy .
wet metersdetect moisture mental object in a surface ( such as soil ) but do n’t find humidity . Hygrometers observe humidness in the air .
High soil wet indications can let in plant root rotting ( mushy roots or stalk ) , lily-livered or brownish leaves that sag , and mold on the soil ’s surface .
If you ’re measuring soil moisture for efflorescence or vegetables planted in the ground , the moisture meter probe needs to be at the point at which the plant ’s base are . If you ’re measure soil in a potted plant , the moisture meter probes involve to reach out at least halfway down the pot .
Soil wet meters send an electrical current through the soil and measure the electrical immunity — the more the electrical resistance , the higher the moisture subject .
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