Wet Soil Vs. Moist Soil

Ideal Soil Moisture Content

• According to the University of Wyoming Extension, the ideal soil is approximately (by volume) 50 percent solid (45 percent mineral and 5 percent organic matter) and 50 percent pore space, half of which is occupied by water. Moist soil occurs when 25 percent of the soil volume is water. Wet soil is classified as soil with its pore space, including air space, filled with water. This is soupy or muddy in appearance. Dry soil is when the pore space is filled with nothing but air. This soil crumbles into a dusty powder when put under pressure.

Soil Moisture Levels

• Though plants have different water requirements, having too much or too little water is usually evident in the plant's appearance. Plants usually green in appearance take on a yellow tint when too much water is in the soil. Wilting or dry, brittle leaves indicate not enough water in the soil. An easy way to measure of ideal water content is to take a handful of soil and squeeze it. The soil should form a ball. Drop the ball on the sidewalk; if it breaks into small clumps, the moisture level is about right. If it splatters, the water content is too high. If the ball doesn't form initially, the soil is too dry.

Watering Systems

• Many gardeners prefer a timer on watering systems for convenience. This works well if the correct amount of water is being applied. To measure sprinkler output, evenly space six or more straight-sided food containers, such as tuna cans, in the space being watered. Run the sprinklers for 20 minutes, and then measure the water level in each can. Multiply the average water amount by three. This is the estimate amount of water the sprinkler puts out in an hour. Use this number to set a watering schedule based on plant requirements.

Water Requirements

• Watering deeply stimulates root development. To ensure water reaches the lower soil levels, water for longer periods less frequently to allow the water to penetrate deep into the soil. During the dry time between watering, roots search lower in the soil for their required water allotment. This increases the plants' overall health. In intense heat, or dry spells, this may require more frequent, long-duration watering sessions. Test your soil regularly and watch for plant wilt to determine the proper frequency of watering for your garden.

Proper Drainage

• Proper drainage of a garden space ensures a more consistent water level. If too much water is a problem, create a drainage solution. According to the Purdue Extension, water can be removed from both the surface and the subsurface of soils. In clay soils, water remains on the surface, flooding the garden space. Augment the soil with additives, or grade the soil to promote runoff; grading may require erosion control. Subsurface water is removed through tile drains and open ditches.