A filter-paper method for determining the moisture characteristics of soil

Abstract

A simple filter paper method for estimating a wide range of moisture potentials has been tested for fifteen soils ranging in texture from sands to heavy clays. The method has given estimates of moisture potential from -0.1 to -900 bars with an accuracy that should be acceptable for many types of field experimentation. Relationships between 15-bar percentages determined by both the filter paper and pressure membrane methods, and biologically determined permanent wilting percentages for wheat, are discussed.