Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Signs of Underwatering
A plant's roots must continually grow for the plant to stay healthy
and produce its fruit, seeds, or buds. The roots draw the nutrients
from the soil up into the plant to make it grow. Water allows the
nutrients in the soil to be absorbed into the plant. If there is too little
water, the roots cannot draw in the nutrients. As a result, the plant
will not grow and mature as it should. You can water the surface or
even the top several inches of your soil, but the plant roots need to
go deeper into the soil to get more nutrients. This is why it is essen-
tial for regular deep watering when growing vegetables.
Wilted plants are one sign that you're not watering enough. If the
plant can draw enough water to replace the amount that is evapor-
ated from its leaves, it will remain upright and strong. If the plant is
not getting the water it needs, it will quickly collapse. This causes
severe stress to the plant and often death. It is important to water a
plant that is wilted as soon as you can.
Smoothie Garden Solution
Deep roots make plants more tolerant to drought conditions. If you
have to ration water, know which plants have the deepest roots.
Beets, asparagus, and brassicas can do with a bit less water. Never
stop watering lettuce, cucumbers, and peppers, because they are
very sensitive to drought conditions.
It is important to take time every day to observe your plants so
you can find and quickly fix potential problems. Your plants should
appear strong, have a bright color, and look healthy. If you have
young transplants, you need to give them a drink of water every day
because their roots are very shallow and the top few inches of your
