AquaSpy Sand Installations – FarmQA

AquaSpy Sand Instalations

Installing AquaSpy probes in sandy soils can be difficult, because of this a different installation method is needed.

For the first installation in a new field, it is recommended to attempt a traditional installation technique. If the probe only inserts part way after pouring the slurry in the augured hole, this indicates a sand installation method is needed.

You need to get a 3/8 steel rod and weld a handle on the top.  Basically this is a push-type soil moisture probe with the ball cut off and the end of the rod sharpened to allow easy penetration in the soil. 
You then need to make holes around the probe and use lots of water to fill the holes, saturate the soil and make it slump against the probe.  You start by doing it close to the probe (pictured) and then moving out in concentric circles until all the sand is saturated and has slumped against the probe. 
After the soil is slumped, it may be necessary to add additional slurry to the top of the augured hole. Make sure the slurry is even with the soil surface.
After the installation, FarmQA suggests looking at the moisture value of each sensor within AgSpy.
If the SF value Is greater than 20, the installation was a success.
If it is not, there is likely poor soil to probe contact and more water should be added to the installation.
Below are some pictures that show how to install in sand.