> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sophiabarnes.dev/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Sensor types

> Compare the VerdantBot soil moisture sensors and choose the right one for your plants.

VerdantBot offers a few soil moisture sensor models. They all pair the same way (see [Install and activate a moisture sensor](/mintlify-demo/v1.1/sensor-installation)), but differ in probe length, battery life, and reporting interval.

## Available models

| Model | Probe length | Battery life | Reporting interval | Best for |
| - | - | - | - | - |
| Sprout | 8 cm | \~6 months | 5 min | Small pots and seedlings |
| Garden | 14 cm | \~12 months | 5 min | Houseplants and raised beds |
| Grove Pro | 20 cm | \~18 months | 1 min | Large planters and outdoor beds |

## Choosing a model

* **Match the probe to the pot depth.** The moisture contacts should sit in the root zone, roughly halfway down the soil column.
* **Outdoor plants benefit from Grove Pro.** The faster reporting interval catches quick swings after rain or watering.
* **Battery life scales with reporting interval.** A 1-minute interval reports more often and drains the battery faster than a 5-minute interval.

<Tip>
  Not sure which fits? Start with the **Garden** model — it covers most houseplants and raised beds.
</Tip>

## Next steps

<Card title="Calibrate a sensor" icon="sliders" href="/mintlify-demo/v1.1/sensors/calibrate-a-sensor">
  Fine-tune readings so the dry and wet thresholds match your soil.
</Card>