Pre-conditioning of Watermark Sensors, a must do!

Rain is in the forecast for tonight. As of today only a few growers have initiated corn irrigation, mostly to incorporate fertilizer after missing the last rain opportunity. Elsewhere, growers are beginning to prepare for that first irrigation event.  Poly-pipe is being laid Delta wide. Installation of moisture sensors will aid in irrigation timing and should be installed as soon as possible.

Watermark sensors must be pre-conditioned prior to installation. To pre-condition, slowly wet the sensors by partially submerging them (no more than half way) in water for 30 minutes in the morning, let dry until evening, wet for 30 minutes, let dry overnight, wet again for 30 minutes the next morning and let dry again until evening. Soak over the next night and install WET.  Sensors must be installed wet. Pre-conditioning the sensors ensures quick response to changing soil moisture conditions. If a sensor is only soaked and then installed, several irrigation cycles must pass before it will respond accurately.

For more information you can reach Dr. Krutz at 662-588-8974