[3759allen]

i hope this is in the right section, i'm sure it will get moved if not.

i've been asked by my dad to find out if there is a good and reliable test to see how much moisture is in the soil.

i thought you lot would be the people to ask.

my parents are being put on a water meter so water may well be in short supply over the summer, so it would make sense to only use water in the places it would be most beneficial.

munch is already being used to retain moisture, and my dad is collecting together as much water storage as possible to save the winter water.

[grinling]

what is the soil type. Mine is sandy in some parts and peaty in others. will water veg, but leave flowers and lawn alone. water the containers and polytunnel. Have 4 x220l water butts and 2 bins in polytunnel. Not water metered and don't have to be, but prefer to use water butts.
Most plants have good root systems so I go by if it lives great.
my friend has a ball pool and that is 6mx4m and it costs £15 to fill, which is alot of water.

[cadalot]

TESCO are selling off theirs for under £3 at the moment and wilko has a half price sale on if you are quick

[3759allen]

are they any good?

which one would you recommend?

[Kleftiwallah]

Latest hot poop.  Best to water in early morning.  In the evening the slugs are attracted

Cheers,   Tony.

[cadalot]

are they any good?

which one would you recommend?

They are a probe that detects moisture with an indicator with red amber green so it gives you guidance what's happening at depth in the soil - I played with one for a little while as I was worried about overwatering, then decided it's too much hassle. The one I bought also has a switch to check the acidity of the soil, only used that function once. I have a soil testing kit - still have not got a round to playing with that either.

They are so cheap, give it a go and see what you think