Moisture level control in potted plant containers - anode and cathode provide capillary action to transfer moisture and voltmeter indicates moisture level

摘要

A copper strip which serves as an anode is located in the mineral particle base layer and a zinc strip is embedded in the peat based top layer. Connections from both anode and zinc cathode are coupled to a voltmeter than records a potential difference dependent upon moisture level. A central tube of plastic acts as a support for the anode and cathode. Due to electro-osmosis moisture accumulated in the base layer will be transferred by capillary action to the top layer. When the potential difference falls below a certain value the voltmeter reading provides an indication that the plastic tube, which acts as a supply reservoir, is in need of replenishment.