Irrigation Scheduling of Grapevines
Hand Feel Method
The hand-feel method requires nothing more than a soil probe or auger. Soil samples are taken at various depths within the vine's root zone and the moisture content judged by squeezing soil into a ball, observing the appearance of the ball and creating a ribbon of soil between the thumb and forefinger to estimate soil moisture. The more moisture in the soil the easier it is in forming a ribbon. While being the simplest method it is only an estimate and lacks scientific basis. Accurate measurement is not possible, but rather the method is an art developed over time with extensive use.
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