Heat Wilt v. Permanent Wilt
Some plants may ‘wilt’ in extreme heat when a plant’s water loss (via transpiration) exceeds water absorption. Or it may be a tactic the plant uses to conserve water as a protective measure against extreme temperatures.
But when a plant does not have access to water at all, it may be approaching the permanent wilting point.
Let’s talk about the difference.
Heat Wilt
Warmer temperatures mean more water is lost through the plant’s leaves. When less water is present in the leaves, the leaves droop or wilt. Warmer temperatures may inhibit roots from absorbing water as efficiently if high soil temperatures are unfavorable to the plant species. This is common for plants in Florida during the warmer months.
This kind of wilt is temporary and may not cause permanent damage, without prolonged exposure to stress. The plant will bounce back as long as there is water available for the plant to absorb.
- Check to see if the soil has moisture. Stick a finger into the soil or dig several inches down to see if there is any moisture. If water is available to the plant, the plant should recover.
Permanent Wilt
Permanent wilt occurs when water is not available to a plant, when the roots cannot extract moisture from the soil. Since plants need a balance of air and water to survive, a lack of water over a period of time longer than the plant can withstand can lead to plant injury and death. Permanent wilt means the plant cannot recover and will subsequently die.
Want to learn more about gardening in a drought? Read Balancing Plant Health with Watering Restrictions during Extreme Drought.
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