Using container weights to determine irrigation needs: a simple method

Abstract

Proper irrigation can reduce water use, water waste, and incidence of disease. Knowing when to irrigate plants in container nurseries can be determined by weighing containers. This simple method is quantifiable, which is a benefit when more than one worker is responsible for irrigation. Irrigation is necessary when the container weighs some target as a proportion of its weight at field capacity. Care should be taken when comparing target container weights because they can be calculated different ways. In the nursery, one easy method for obtaining weights is using a small, handheld portable balance.