2.2.2. Soil water content (SWC)
Volumetric SWC was measured using time domain reflectometry (TDR) (IMKO,
Germany) at 16 cm depth (after removing the surface litter layer). TDR
probes were calibrated with SWC obtained gravimetrically (as theoretical
values), and the calibration error between the value of the instrument
and that of theoretical was < 2%. We obtained 1920 field SWC
records in the investigation. In order to minimize the impact of
environmental factors (such as precipitation events) on surface SWC,
there were at least 7 sunny days before and, so as to better reflect the
interaction and hydrological connection between SWC and landcover types,
and no precipitation during the study period.