Guide: Soil Moisture Recommendations for Flowers, Plants and Vegetables
Soil Types and Watering Information
Loam Soil:
Very porous and retains moisture well. This is the optimal soil type and can be watered normally.
Sandy Soil:
Extremely porous and drains quickly. Water slowly to saturate soil root zones.
Clay Soil:
Holds more water, but is slow to absorb and release. Do not water faster than the soil can absorb it.
General Soil Moisture Information & Tips
- If you have sandy or very heavy clay soils and would like to improve its water retention, add compost or organic matter to your soil.
- Adding sand to clay soils, or clay to sandy soils will create a cement-like soil, making water retention worse.
- One inch of water per week is adequate for most plants. You may use a rain gauge to assist (not included; sold separately).
Recommended Soil Moisture Levels
The plants listed in this guide represent commonly found species. Consult a local horticulture professional for more specific details on plants not found on this list.
NOTE: All vegetables require soil moisture between 41% - 80%.
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AcuRite Solution:
AcuRite Soil Moisture Meter to help keep your plants and garden healthy.
April 4, 2018
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Comments
November 27, 2019 at 6:54 PM
Terrence...at the top of the chart before there are any lists, the author said that all vegetables need 41% to 80%. I had the same question, but then saw the statement that starts with NOTE:. I'm going to guess that you missed that the same way I did!
June 6, 2020 at 12:16 PM
Great list and really useful. I noticed you don't have much on succulents such as aloe vera, aeoneums, and the like. are they in the same range as Agave and Cactus, (0-20%) or are they in the next range