Vines A tensiometer is a device for measuring soil water tension.
Tensiometers indirectly measure soil moisture tension.
Since tensiometers are installed for the entire season or longer, they provide readings at the same location over an extended period of time. Tensiometer readings are easily interpreted and indicate the soil water conditions experienced by the plants' roots. Soil salinity does not affect the readings. Although tensiometers are used most frequently for monitoring soil moisture, they can also be incorporated into automated irrigation systems. Gauges with solenoids can be used to control an irrigation system , and tensiometers equipped with transducers can be used with computerized irrigation systems.