Beta Ray Gauging Technique for Measuring Leaf Water Content Changes and Moisture Status of Plants

Abstract

Some practical aspects in the use of the beta ray gauging technique for determining the moisture status of plants are considered. These include the selection of a suitable beta ray source and construction details of a leaf gauge. The performance of the gauge was checked on plants that were grown under controlled environmental conditions. The gauge was sensitive to the rapid changes in leaf water content which occurred in plants grown in a constant water vapor deficit, but in alternately dark and light conditions.