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Field Capacity Formula:
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Field Capacity (FC) is a measure of soil water holding capacity, representing the maximum amount of water the soil can hold against gravity after being saturated and allowed to drain. It's a critical parameter in agriculture and soil science.
The calculator uses the Field Capacity formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the percentage of water retained in the soil after drainage, relative to the dry soil weight.
Details: Accurate field capacity measurement is essential for irrigation planning, water management, crop yield optimization, and understanding soil-water-plant relationships.
Tips: Enter saturated weight and dry weight in grams. Both values must be valid (SW > DW > 0). Ensure proper sample preparation for accurate results.
Q1: What is the ideal field capacity range for most crops?
A: Most crops perform best when soil moisture is maintained between 50-75% of field capacity, though this varies by crop type and soil composition.
Q2: How does soil texture affect field capacity?
A: Clay soils typically have higher field capacity (35-45%) than sandy soils (10-20%) due to smaller pore spaces that hold more water against gravity.
Q3: What's the difference between field capacity and permanent wilting point?
A: Field capacity is the upper limit of plant-available water, while permanent wilting point is the lower limit where plants can no longer extract water from the soil.
Q4: How long does it take for soil to reach field capacity after saturation?
A: Typically 24-48 hours for most soils, though this can vary based on soil texture, structure, and environmental conditions.
Q5: Can field capacity change over time?
A: Yes, field capacity can be affected by soil compaction, organic matter content, tillage practices, and biological activity in the soil.