Spatial variability of soil water content revolutionizes precision irrigation in agriculture.
The researchers studied soil water content in a field in Northwest China to help with precise irrigation. They collected soil samples at different dates and analyzed the variation in water content using statistical and geostatistical methods. They found that soil water content varied weakly to moderately across the field. The spacing between samples affected the accuracy of the results, with closer spacing giving more detailed information. Increasing sample density showed more changes in water content distribution. They identified the optimal sampling points for accurate measurements and found that soil water content in the middle of the field was slightly higher than at the edges. These findings can guide better soil water sampling and irrigation practices in the region.