The 15 best soil moisture brands
General, VIVOSUN and Dr.Meter lead our ranking of 15 soil moisture brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Soil Moisture brands, ranked
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1
General
Long-established American toolmaker whose moisture meters are a classic choice for pin-type readings.
Popularity 10.0/10
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2
VIVOSUN
A grow-tent brand whose budget 3-in-1 probe reads soil moisture, light and pH in one tool.
Top products: 3-in-1 Plant Moisture Meter
Website: vivosun.com |Brands like VIVOSUN
Popularity 8.9/10
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3
Dr.Meter
Pin-probe handheld meters for home growers, with simple digital readouts for quick checks.
Website: drmeter.com |Brands like Dr.Meter
Popularity 8.4/10
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4
Delmhorst
Specialist in pin and electrode moisture meters, widely used for building and water-damage inspections.
Website: delmhorst.com |Brands like Delmhorst
Popularity 6.0/10
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5
Hydrofarm
Hydroponics and grow-supply company whose Active Air meter reads moisture, light and pH together.
Top products: MGMLP1 Active Air
Website: hydrofarm.com |Brands like Hydrofarm
Popularity 5.1/10
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6
Scott's
In the lawn care sector, Scotts is a worldwide powerhouse. They are committed to generating long-lasting, attractive lawns by supplying a wide range of products, including grass seed, mulches, and fertilizer. They are committed to delivering creative solutions that assist make their yards look amazing while also protecting and preserving their outdoor living areas, based on their many years of experience. Their goods are made to the best quality standards and deliver your desired results. Scotts has a comprehensive selection of products for consumer and commercial use, from seasonal lawn care items to professional-grade fertilizers.
Website: scotts.com |Brands like Scott's
Popularity 4.7/10
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7
GE
GE Lighting has been leading the lighting technology industry for over 130 years. Its mission is to provide customers with a first-class smart home experience. To do so, it has created novel lighting products designed to improve one's lifestyle and the overall ambiance of the house, no matter the setting. It values innovation and reliability, which has propelled it to reach the levels of fame it has today.
Website: gelighting.com |Brands like GE
Popularity 4.0/10
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8
Ryobi
Tools are an important part of a worker's life. Their whole life revolves around this equipment which helps in their daily chores. That's why RYOBI Tools brings you to the world of tools and a variety of equipment that can be used by all of us. They provide several tools varying from power tools like blowers to hand tools and cleaning accessories used in almost every place. They also have DIY tools to work with.
Website: ryobitools.com |Brands like Ryobi
Popularity 3.2/10
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9
K Tool
Machine shops and workshops that need common tools on short notice buy from K Tool, a full-service machine shop. The company keeps standard screwdrivers, punch tools and drill bits in stock and ships them quickly. It also makes custom tooling...
Website: ktoolinternational.com |Brands like K Tool
Popularity 3.2/10
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10
Bluelab
Bluelab develops solutions to help producers achieve exceptional harvest and productivity while using no chemicals and minimal water. There are several devices for various parameters, such as pH and temperature. Making it feasible to monitor important growth metrics 24/7. There...
Website: bluelab.com |Brands like Bluelab
Popularity 2.8/10
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11
HM Digital
Utility companies, municipalities, schools, laboratories, and industrial facilities utilize HM Digital's advanced portable meters and test kits to monitor water quality. They can offer the ideal meter for your needs thanks to their extensive selection of options. The firm's handheld...
Website: hmdigital.com |Brands like HM Digital
Popularity 2.8/10
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12
Shinwa
Shinwa is Japan's biggest measuring instrument maker, with the largest market share in the sector of metallic rulers. Their products have been exported to several nations in Asia, Europe, and North America. In Japan, the firm makes and sells measuring...
Website: shinwasokutei.co.jp |Brands like Shinwa
Popularity 2.4/10
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13
Ambient Weather
Ambient Weather produces personal weather stations that measure temperature, humidity and wind at home. The line includes thermo-hygrometers and temperature monitors for indoor and outdoor use, plus timers. Owners can follow readings on a display console without going outside, so...
Website: ambientweather.com |Brands like Ambient Weather
Popularity 2.4/10
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14
LaMotte
LaMotte is your complete solution when it comes to water/hydro tests. This company specializes in manufacturing and developing devices that can check water’s pH levels, toxicity, and numerous test kits and give the best results for any particular answer. They...
Website: lamotte.com |Brands like LaMotte
Popularity 2.4/10
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15
Extech
Extech builds compact handheld meters and test instruments for electrical, environmental and laboratory work. Its mini multimeters offer several measurement functions in a pocket-sized body, and its line includes sound level meters, moisture meters and DC power supplies.
Website: extech.com |Brands like Extech
Popularity 2.0/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIVOSUN | vivosun.com | /vivosun.official | vivosun.official | – | VIVOSUN |
| Dr.Meter | drmeter.com | – | – | – | – |
| Delmhorst | delmhorst.com | /Delmhorst+Instrument+Co. | – | @DelmhorstCo | DelmhorstInstrument1 |
| Hydrofarm | hydrofarm.com | /Hydrofarm | hydrofarmtv | @HydrofarmTV | HydrofarmTV |
| Scott's | scotts.com | /scottslawn | scottslawn | @ScottsLawn | ScottsMiracleGro |
| GE | gelighting.com | /GELighting | gelighting | @GELighting | GELightingFuture |
| Ryobi | ryobitools.com | /ryobitoolsusa | ryobitoolsusa | @RYOBItoolsusa | – |
| K Tool | ktoolinternational.com | – | – | – | – |
| Bluelab | bluelab.com | /bluelabofficial | bluelab_official | @bluelabofficial | – |
Soil Moisture Buying Guide
Soil is the foundation of agriculture, and proper moisture content is essential for the healthy growth of plants. Inadequate moisture supply can make the plant wilt, weak, nutrient-stressed and susceptible to disease, and pest infestations. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain an optimal moisture level in the soil to obtain healthy yields. In this soil moisture buying guide, we will discuss the various factors that you should consider before purchasing a soil moisture meter to make an informed decision.
Types of Soil Moisture Meters
Before diving into the factors to consider, let's take a look at the different types of soil moisture meters.
Penetrometer
Penetrometer, also known as tensiometer or soil moisture sensor, measures the moisture tension in the soil. It consists of a probe with a gauge to indicate moisture tension in centimeters or kilopascals. When placed in the soil, the sensor rod absorbs the moisture from the soil, and the gauge indicates this moisture level. Penetrometers are typically used for deep-rooted crops such as trees, shrubs, and vines.
Resistance-based Meters
Resistance-based meters measure the volume of water present in the soil by calculating the soil's electrical resistance. When water content is high, soil provides less resistance to an electric current, while dry soil provides more resistance. A probe is inserted into the soil, which measures the amount of electrical resistance to determine soil moisture levels. It is a cost-effective and versatile option for most types of soil.
Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) Meters
TDR meters use electromagnetic waves to measure the soil's moisture content. An electromagnetic pulse is sent through the soil, and the time taken for the wave to reflect back gives an indication of the moisture level in the soil. The TDR method is accurate and reliable, making it the preferred choice for precise soil moisture measurement.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Soil Moisture Meter
Type of Plants
The type of plants you want to grow is a crucial factor to consider before purchasing a soil moisture meter. Some plants require more moisture, while others require less. For instance, fruits and vegetables require more water than perennial plants. Knowing the water needs of the plants will help you choose the right soil moisture meter that can meet their water needs.
Soil Type
The soil type is another essential factor to consider when choosing a soil moisture meter. Soil types can vary from dense clay soil to sandy soil. Different soil types hold water differently, and if you choose a moisture meter that is not suitable for your soil type, you may get incorrect readings. For instance, soil with higher clay content would require a different meter compared to soil with more sand content. Therefore, you should choose a soil moisture meter that is suitable for the type of soil you have.
Accuracy
The accuracy of the moisture meter is another critical factor to consider when making a purchase. A more accurate moisture meter gives more reliable results, making it easier to maintain optimal soil moisture levels. A less accurate meter may give unreliable readings, resulting in incorrect adjustments, leading to under or over-watering.
Readability
Readability is also an essential factor to consider before buying a soil moisture meter. You want to choose a meter that is easy to read and interpret. Meters with simpler displays are easier to read and understand than complex ones. A good moisture meter should give clear readings with easily understandable symbols, graphics, or numbers.
Probe Length
The length of the probe is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a moisture meter. You want to ensure that the probe is long enough to reach the roots of the plants. If the probe is too short, it may not give an accurate reading since it's not in the root zone. Therefore, you should choose a meter with a probe that is long enough to reach the depth of your plants' roots.
Price
Price is also an essential factor to consider when buying a soil moisture meter. There are different types of moisture meters available in the market at various price points. However, the most expensive option is not always the best. It's essential to choose a moisture meter based on your budget, while also considering the accuracy, durability, and features you need.
How to Use a Soil Moisture Meter
After purchasing the soil moisture meter, it's essential to know how to use it correctly. Here is a simple guide to using a soil moisture meter:
Step 1:
Read the instructions that come with the soil moisture meter carefully. Different meters come with different guidelines, and you need to know how to use your specific device.
Step 2:
Check the soil before watering the plants. Insert the probe into the soil in different areas of the pot or garden to get an overall view of the soil moisture. The goal is to ensure that the plant is not underwatered or overwatered, which can also be detrimental to the plant's growth.
Step 3:
Adjust watering according to the meter's readings. If the meter indicates that the soil is too dry, it's time to water the plants. If the meter indicates that the soil is too moist, it's time to cut back on watering or improve the soil's drainage.
Step 4:
Check the soil moisture regularly, especially during periods of high heat or rain. Soil moisture can fluctuate greatly depending on weather conditions, and it's crucial to monitor the soil moisture level regularly to adjust watering accordingly.
Step 5:
Store your moisture meter in a clean and dry place to ensure its longevity. After use, rinse the probe with clean water and dry it before storing it.
Conclusion
Soil moisture meters are essential tools for maintaining optimal soil moisture levels for healthy plant growth. When buying a soil moisture meter, it's essential to consider factors such as the plant's water needs, soil type, accuracy, readability, probe length, and price. Knowing how to use the moisture meter correctly is also important to ensure the healthy growth and productivity of your plants. With this soil moisture buying guide, you're now equipped with the necessary knowledge to make an informed decision when purchasing a soil moisture meter.
