Enabling better global research outcomes in soil, plant & environmental monitoring. 21
9.
Install the Sensor
Care must be taken when installing the sensor to ensure that the needles are
parallel. Corrections can be made, but there is no substitute for good
preparation and installation. An installation video is available at:
9.1
Measure the Plant
Remove any loose bark. Use stem diameter tape to measure the diameter of
the plant at installation height. This should be below the first branch of the
tree, and where possible, at breast height.
Measure the bark depth using a bark depth gauge or a flathead screwdriver
with the tip horizontal to the stem. You should feel a change in resistance when
the bark depth gauge/screwdriver reaches the sapwood.
Measure the sapwood thickness using a coring tool. Bore the coring tool into
the stem at least halfway through the tree to ensure that the core passes
through the sapwood into the heartwood. Remove the sapwood core and stain
with an indicator dye.
See the SFM1x Manual for more information on measuring the plant.