Dutch University Uses Patented Technology for Soil Moisture Research

Dutch university Wageningen UR uses PlantCare equipment, from Eijkelkamp Agrisearch Equipment (Netherlands), for soil moisture research in their greenhouse horticulture facilities in Bleiswijk, The Netherlands. 6 PlantCare wireless sensors, for recording soil moisture and soil temperature, and a PlantControl CX wireless data logger with modem, for sending the data to an email address, are being used.

PlantCare’s worldwide patented sensor technology is based on the microthermic measurement of soil moisture. A specially developed felt material, developed to possess moisture balance with the soil, acts as the interface between the surrounding soil and the sensor. To measure the moisture level, the sensor is briefly heated and the cooling-down time, which varies depending on soil moisture, is determined. The sensors cooling-down time thus provides a statement of the soils moisture content.

PlantCare’s irrigations systems are used in agricultural research, forestry, hydrology and for irrigation monitoring in garden and landscaping construction, agriculture and (tree) nurseries.

Eijkelkamp Agrisearch Equipment is responsible for the worldwide distribution of PlantCare’s Mini-Logger, PlantControl D and PlantCare CX.