Abstract: An apparatus measuring the matric suction of soil moisture free from adverse effects due to changes in the salinity and temperature of the soil having first and second water-sensitive resistors and circuit electrically connected to the resistors for measuring the ratio of resistance of the resistors as affected by matric suction. A circuit is provided which includes electrodes proximate opposite sides of each resistor and separate layers located between the water-sensitive resistors and at least all of the electrodes but the electrode furthermost from the soil. The separate layers are chemical inert, electrically conductive, finely divided particles which are wettable by an aqueous solution.