### Introduction Moisture mapping is an essential tool for understanding and managing plant health and water resources. By tracking soil moisture levels, turf professionals can identify areas that are in need of irrigation or drainage, and adjust their watering schedules accordingly. **How do I use a moisture reader for plants?** Moisture meters are available in a variety of forms, including handheld probes, permanent sensors and smart systems such as EnviroScan. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Handheld probes are the most basic type of moisture meter. They are easy to use, but they only provide a reading from a single location. This makes them less useful for mapping large areas. Permanent sensors are installed in the soil, and they provide continuous readings of moisture levels. This makes them ideal for monitoring soil moisture over time, but it is a more expensive option. Smart systems combine the features of handheld probes and permanent sensors. They are portable, but they can also be programmed to take readings at regular intervals. This makes them a good option for monitoring large areas without having to manually insert a probe each time. ### Benefits of Moisture Mapping There are many benefits to using moisture mapping, including: * **Improved plant health:** By tracking soil moisture levels, turf professionals can ensure that plants are getting the water they need to thrive. This leads to better overall plant health, including increased growth, yield, and resistance to pests and diseases. * **Reduced water usage:** Moisture mapping can help turf professionals identify areas that are over- or under-watered. This allows them to adjust their irrigation schedules accordingly, which can save water. * **Improved drainage:** Moisture mapping can help turf professionals identify areas that are poorly drained. This allows them to take steps to improve drainage, which can prevent waterlogging and root rot. * **Reduced maintenance costs:** By using moisture mapping to prevent problems such as over-watering, under-watering, and poor drainage, turf professionals can reduce maintenance costs. ### Conclusion Moisture mapping is a valuable tool for turf professionals who want to improve plant health, reduce water usage, and reduce maintenance costs. By tracking soil moisture levels, turf professionals can make informed decisions about irrigation and drainage, which can lead to a healthier, more beautiful, and more sustainable landscape.