5 Best Moisture Meters For Your Plants

When you have a garden, you know that plants need several things: sunlight, water, and enough nutrients.

Underwatering and overwatering both put your plant at risk of wilting or dying. Therefore, it’s essential to use a moisture meter for plants.

The best moisture meter for plants for hydroponics is the REOTEMP Garden and Compost Moisture Meter. It has a durable and extra-long stainless steel probe that delivers accurate readings. It also has adjustable calibration for soil, compost, or other mediums. However, it’s sensitive to salt levels. 

In this guide, we have detailed soil moisture meter reviews of various products. We discuss their use both in traditional and hydroponic growing setups. We also talk about how and why moisture meters are used, so you can comfortably monitor your garden. 

Best Overall: REOTEMP Garden and Compost Moisture Meter

Specs

• Type: Soil and compost probe
• Precision: Increments of 2 from 1-10
• Analog/Digital: Analog

Benefits

The REOTEMP moisture meter is very durable. It has a heavy-duty 15-inch stainless steel probe that is 5/16-inch in diameter. The internet structure has heavy-duty nuts that are encased in a solid enclosure. This means that it is resistant to breaking and can give you years of reliable use. 

Because of the extra-long probe, it is ideal for plants with very long roots. The meter takes readings from the tip of the probe, so it allows you to access readings that shorter moisture meters cannot. 

The probe uses electrical conductivity to determine the wetness of the soil and compost. It displays the readings in a simple format that ranges from 1-10 on a wetness scale. 

Many users have reported that the REOTEMP readings are more precise and accurate than similar models. It also displays these readings instantly, so you don’t need to wait or struggle to interpret the results.

The moisture meter is battery-powered and only needs one AAA battery. This makes it a very affordable option that you can use for many years with minimal spending. 

Drawbacks

The main disadvantage of the REOTEMP model is that it is sensitive to salt. Salt affects electrical conductivity and therefore can give inaccurate readings of moisture content. 

This can happen if you use fertilizer or a growing solution that has a high salt content. However, this is a common problem with most hand-held moisture meters and is not unique to the REOTEMP model. 

Extra Features

Adjustable calibration is one of the best features of the REOTEMP moisture meter. It allows you to customize readings according to your medium. Whether you are testing the moisture of soil, lawn, compost, or other plant matter, it has accurate readings. 

These calibration readings are written on the back of the moisture meter. This means that you can make adjustments without needing to consult the manual. 

We also like the full box enclosure around the moisture meter head. It protects the unit from dirt and dust, which further increases its durability. The REOTEMP unit is stronger than other moisture meters on the market, which makes it a steal at its price point. 

Buying Advice

If you’re looking for a sturdy and versatile moisture meter for plants for hydroponics, you can’t go wrong with the REOTEMP unit. Many users applaud its tough design, accurate readings, and user-friendly simplicity. 

Runner up: XLUX T10 Soil Moisture Sensor

Specs

• Type: Soil probe
• Precision: Increments of 1 from 1-10
• Analog/Digital: Analog

Benefits

The XLUX T10 Soil Moisture Sensor is simple and easy to use. It has an oversized dial with clear increments from one to ten. It also has color categories to help you see if the soil is classified as dry, moist, or wet. 

The moisture meter has instant readings, which is perfect if you’re in a hurry or have a large garden. The large numbers on the dial allow you to see the moisture content of your soil in just seconds. 

It has a 7-inch probe that is thin in diameter. This allows you to reach roots that are further from the surface without causing any damage. The probe is just firm enough to withstand breaking, without sharp edges that can hurt your plants. 

The moisture meter is very lightweight, so you can use it with one hand and with minimal fuss. It doesn’t cause any strain to your wrist or fingers. 

The T10 is also very affordable. At less than $15, it’s one of the cheapest moisture meters available on the market. This makes it a great option if you’re looking for a mixture of affordability and quality. 

Drawbacks

The main drawback of the XLUX system is that it is designed purely for soil readings. The soil moisture meter does not give accurate readings when there is too much liquid. While this is suitable for some hydroponics setups that use rocks or gravel, many are purely liquid-based. 

Therefore, you should consider your garden and the medium you will use to grow your plants. The XLUX unit is a better option for more traditional gardening styles that use at least a little soil. 

Extra Features

One of the best features of the XLUX T10 is that it doesn’t need a battery. It makes its readings off a sensor in the tip and does not need additional power. This is great if you’re looking for a fully functional moisture meter with zero upkeep. 

It also includes a detailed watering guide. This indicates the ideal moisture levels for many common plants. This allows for quick cross-referencing while you’re still out in the garden. 

Buying Advice

If you’re looking for a simple and affordable moisture meter, the XLUX T10 could be a great choice. It has an easy design and clear readings that tell you the moisture content of the soil. 

It’s a step up from a simple touch test of soil and is an invaluable addition to your gardening toolkit. 

Alternative: Luster Leaf Digital Moisture Meter

Specs

• Type: Soil probe
• Precision: One decimal place from 1-10
• Analog/Digital: Digital

Benefits

The Luster Leaf Digital Moisture Meter is more precise than other garden moisture sensors. It has digital calibration that shows the moisture levels correct to one decimal place. This is perfect if you need a professional moisture meter for your garden.

It also provides instant readings. You can check the reading with the included plant watering guide to see if the moisture level is correct for your plants. It advises on 100 different plants, taking the guesswork out of your gardening. 

The probe of the moisture meter is long and made of stainless steel. This allows it to resist damage and reach the deep roots of your plants. This also means that you don’t need to bend down low to read the moisture levels. 

At less than $20, the Luster Leaf Digital Moisture Meter is excellent value for money. It is digital technology with an analog price and can give you years of reliable use. 

Drawbacks

Like other common moisture meters, the Luster Leaf model is designed to be used with soil. It provides the most accurate readings in soil. Therefore, it may not be the best for hydroponic setups that don’t use any soil or rocks. 

Some users have also complained that the moisture meter does not give accurate readings in loose soil. It needs compact soil around the tip to detect the correct moisture levels. 

Extra Features

RapiTest performs electronic testing on all of the Luster Leaf moisture meters. They use an electronic simulator to make sure that the device works before shipping it. This ensures that the soil moisture meter is reliable and accurate.

The unit also includes a cleaning pad so you can keep the probe clean and clear of soil. This makes sure that you get accurate readings every time. 

Buying Advice

If you’re looking for an affordable digital moisture meter for plants for hydroponics, the Luster Leaf Digital Moisture Meter is a reliable option. 

As long as your garden has compact soil, this moisture meter can give accurate readings to one decimal place. It takes the guesswork out of watering and helps you to care for your plants.

ALTERNATIVE: Gouevn Soil Moisture Meter

Specs

• Type: Soil probe
• Precision: Increments of 1 from 1-10
• Analog/Digital: Analog

Benefits

The Gouven Soil Moisture Meter has an oversized display. This has large, clearly marked numbers that are easy to read. It also has a color scale that shows if the reading is dry, moist, or wet. 

It has a 7.7-inch metallic probe that doesn’t need a battery or electricity to function. It detects moisture in the ground and displays the reading instantly, making it very user-friendly. The probe itself is durable and resistant to damage. 

You can use the Gouven moisture meter with any size of plant, including large potted plants. This makes it an excellent choice for mixed gardens that have many different plants. 

Drawbacks

The main disadvantage of the Gouevn moisture meter is the inconsistency of readings. Some users have reported very different readings from the same level of moisture in the soil. Therefore, it’s important to use this soil moisture meter in the right conditions.

It is best suited to compact soil. Very hard surfaces or a lot of liquid can damage the probe or give inaccurate readings. You should also never leave the moisture meter in the ground for long periods. This can damage the unit. 

Extra Features

The Gouven moisture meter includes a watering guide for 200 species of plants. This is more than other garden moisture sensors at the same price point. Therefore, it’s an excellent tool that helps you to learn more about your garden. 

It is also durable enough that you can use it inside or outside. It is suitable for all kinds of plants, including outdoor gardens and farming crops. 

Buying Advice

If you’re looking for a multipurpose and budget-friendly moisture meter for plants, the Gouven unit does not disappoint. It is suitable for many different environments and has a comprehensive watering guide for all kinds of plants. 

ALTERNATIVE: Sonkir Soil pH Meter

Specs

• Type: Soil, pH, and sunlight probe
• Precision: Increments of 1 from 1-10
• Analog/Digital: Analog

Benefits

The Sonkir Soil pH meter is a multipurpose unit that delivers accurate readings. The 3-in-1 unit has Double Needle Detection Technology, which delivers more reliable results. It displays these results on a large display screen that has clear increments. 

It has an extra-long probe with a sensitive tip. You can insert the Sonkir unit into most common surfaces without damaging the probe. However, you should take care with rocks or very wet surfaces. 

Even though it looks complex, the Sonkir moisture meter is very user-friendly. You don’t need batteries and you can insert it into your garden and read the results immediately. It’s lightweight and portable, so you can carry it all over your garden and use it with many plants. 

The moisture meter is also excellent value for money. It gives three different kinds of readings for the price of most simple moisture meters. Therefore, it’s an excellent investment for your hydroponic or regular garden. 

Drawbacks

Some users have complained that the pH level readings are not accurate. This seems to be a fairly common issue with the Sonkir unit. If pH is your main priority, then you should consider a different tool.

However, many users also report that the company replaces faulty units with no extra charge. Therefore, if you do have problems with your unit, then your best course of action is to contact the company directly. 

Extra Features

The Sonkir Soil pH Meter can measure three different levels: moisture, light, and pH level. The meter has a toggle which you switch between the different modes. 

This makes it an excellent professional soil moisture meter. By monitoring all the different levels, you can create the ideal growing environment for your plant. It can alert you when to increase or decrease watering, change sunlight levels, and adjust fertilizers. 

Buying Advice

If you’re looking for a multipurpose moisture meter with extra features, you should consider the Sonkir unit. It helps to monitor many different levels and displays them in a simple format with accurate data. This allows you to make many adjustments for optimal growing conditions. 

Moisture Meters FAQs

What Are Moisture Meters Used For?

Moisture meters are used to measure the level of water in the soil. In a hydroponic system, they show the water content of the roots and/or growing solution. 

This is important because plant roots are underneath the surface of the earth. If you touch the surface of the soil with your hands, then you can’t get a good gauge on the moisture levels. Garden moisture sensors have a long probe that reaches further under the soil and can detect water. 

It is important to measure the water content of your soil so that you know if you are overwatering or underwatering. Plants need an optimal amount of water to grow. If they receive too much or too little water, they can’t grow properly.

Plants that receive too much water are more vulnerable to bacteria and fungi. This is because oxygen cannot penetrate the soil because of the high water content. This allows the growth of bacteria that damage plant roots. 

The lack of oxygen also inhibits the photosynthesis process and does not allow plants to grow to their full size. It can cause a buildup of gas and make the plant droop and rot. The damage of the roots also prevents them from absorbing water. Lastly, overwatering plants can make fruit rot. 

Underwatering plants is also harmful. Plants that do not receive enough water will reduce in size and eventually die. This is because water keeps plants upright and rigid. Without the moisture, they start to wilt towards the ground. They also cannot absorb enough nutrients to grow. 

Therefore, a moisture meter for plants can help you to monitor moisture levels. You can make sure that your plants receive the correct amount of water to grow healthy and strong. 

Do Moisture Meters Really Work?

Plant moisture meters give an accurate reading on the level of wetness in the soil. 

There are different kinds of garden moisture sensors:

• Tensiometers
• Electrical resistance blocks
• Hand-held moisture meters

Tensiometers are a professional soil moisture meter that you can use to measure a wide variety of soils. You need to select the soil type and calibrate the tool. It measures how much water tension is in the soil by the movement of water. It gives an accurate reading that is calculated in centibars. 

Electrical resistance blocks can measure the moisture of soil because of the level of electrical conductivity. When there is more water around the block, it spreads the electricity and reduces the tension. The opposite happens when there is little water near the block. The resistance block calculates the tension and shows it in centibars. 

Hand-held moisture meters are the most common plant moisture meters. They have metal tips that conduct electricity. When there is moisture in the soil, it creates an electric current on the tip of the meter. This kind of moisture meter shows more general readings, usually low, medium, and high. 

Moisture meters for plants are usually very accurate. However, the handheld units are vulnerable to salt levels. If you use a fertilizer with high salt content, you may get an inaccurate reading. 

What Are Normal Moisture Readings?

All of the soil moisture meters on this list use a scale of 1-10. The analog models also include colorful sections that indicate levels of wetness from dry to wet.

Usually, a score of 1 indicates very dry soil. An opposite reading of 10 shows that the soil is very wet. Digital moisture meters for plants include a more precise reading, including one decimal place. 

If you are doing hydroponic gardening without soil, then your moisture readings indicate the moisture of the roots and growing solution. 

Normal moisture readings depend on the kind of plant that you are growing. Moisture meters often include a booklet that shows the ideal reading for different kinds of common plants. 

The following plants need low water content to survive:

• Cacti
• Succulents
• Snake plants

Most plants need a moderate amount of moisture. These include common household plants like:

• Begonias
• Azaleas
• Ficus
• Philodendrons

Most plants start to suffer when there is a lot of moisture in the soil. However, ferns need a medium-high level of soil moisture to thrive. 

You should cross-reference your particular plants with the guide included with your moisture meter. You can also consult a soil moisture guide. 

When Should You Measure Moisture?

You should measure the moisture level of your garden regularly. Make it a habit to take readings every day or every other day. You can even make a chart so you can refer to any changes in moisture content.

You should measure before adding more water. This will tell you how much or how little moisture you need to give to the plants. It is also best to measure at the same time every day. This allows you to account for external factors like sunlight and temperature. 

Measuring the moisture of your plants is also important if you start to notice any changes in growth. Yellowing leaves can be an indicator of disease, nutrient deficiency, or overwatering. Therefore, you should always measure moisture levels to rule out overwatering.

The Best Moisture Meters for Plants for Hydroponics

In conclusion, moisture meters are an essential tool in any kind of gardening setup, including hydroponics. They allow you to monitor water levels in soil, roots, and growing solutions. This allows you to avoid overwatering or underwatering your plants.

There are analog and digital garden moisture sensors. Both are easy to read. They usually have increments of moisture and watering guides, so you can see the ideal water level for your plants. 

We hope this guide has helped you to find the perfect moisture meter for your plants. Remember to measure on a regular basis and help your plants to thrive!