I'm a beginner plant parent and have mostly been using an app called Planta to help me figure out when to water my plants. I also check the soil's dryness by sticking my finger in about half an inch to an inch down. I'm curious if anyone here finds moisture meter tools helpful for getting a more accurate sense of when to water. Do they really make a difference?
4 Answers
I've found moisture meters to be pretty accurate! I use a simple, battery-free one, and it gives an instant reading. Just make sure to measure from a few different spots before you water, and stick it in at the root level—not all the way to the bottom. After using it, clean off the probe to keep it in good shape.
Yes, moisture meters can definitely help, but remember to check the moisture at the bottom of the pot. A lot of soil mixes hold moisture well, so the top can feel dry while the bottom is still soaked. It's like a wet sponge down there and could cause root rot if you water too soon!
I've used moisture meters before, and they worked well for me overall, but I can't fully recommend them. They can be off sometimes and break if left in too wet soil. A wooden skewer or just your finger works great too, especially if you get a feel for the weight of the pot over time!
I've had mixed experiences with moisture meters. Sometimes they work, but it greatly depends on the type of substrate you're using. Personally, I stick to the good old finger method or even a kitchen scale to check how heavy the pot feels.