Temperature is definitely a major component, but the relationship between when moisture is available and soil temperature is more important. Water when it's no

Temperature is definitely a major component, but the relationship between when moisture is available and soil temperature is more important. Water when it's not warm enough to photosynthesize or respire versus significant water availability when soil surface temperature is warmer. You might also note the significance of seasonal drought in northern climates. This also limits microbes ability to respire.