07/09/2026
A simple hand test can help you quickly determine whether soil has enough moisture for plant growth and whether irrigation may be needed. However, the hand test is a quick field assessment, not a precise measurement. For accurate irrigation management, consider using a soil-moisture meter or sensor.
1. Collect a Soil Sample
Take a small handful of soil from the root zone, rather than only from the surface. Check the soil at the depth where most of the plant's roots are growing. This depends on type of crop planted; however, most plants roots are within the upper 30 cm.
2. Squeeze the Soil
Firmly squeeze the soil in your hand and observe how it behaves:
• Very dry: Soil feels dusty, loose and will not form a ball when squeezed.
• Dry: Soil forms a weak ball but easily breaks apart.
• Moist: Soil forms a firm ball and feels slightly cool or damp.
• Very wet: Soil forms a sticky ball and may release water when squeezed.
3. Perform the Ribbon Test
For finer-textured soils, squeeze the soil between your thumb and fingers to form a small ribbon.
• A short or broken ribbon generally indicates lower moisture.
• A longer, smooth ribbon indicates that the soil contains more moisture.
Remember that soil texture affects how the test feels. Sandy, loamy and clay soils behave differently even when they contain similar amounts of water.
4. Check at Different Depths
Do not rely on a single sample. Check moisture at several points across the field and at different depths within the root zone. This gives you a better indication of the overall soil-moisture condition.
5. Decide on Irrigation
Use the hand test together with crop condition, weather, soil type and irrigation requirements to decide whether irrigation is necessary.
Farmer Tip
Avoid checking only the soil surface. The surface can appear dry while there is still adequate moisture deeper in the root zone—or appear moist after light rain while the deeper soil remains dry.
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