When a plant is “crying,” it is actually a natural process known as guttation or weeping leaves. This phenomenon occurs when plants release tiny droplets of liquid from the tips or edges of their leaves. But what does it mean when a plant exhibits this behavior?
Guttation is primarily observed in the early morning or evening when the air is relatively cool and humidity levels are high. It is more commonly seen in herbaceous plants, such as grasses and certain types of flowers, rather than woody plants. The liquid expelled during guttation is not tears in the emotional sense, but rather a mixture of sap and water.
So, why do plants “cry”? The main reason is that plants continue to respire even during the night when photosynthesis is not taking place. Respiration is the process by which plants take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide. During this process, plants need a continuous flow of sap to transport nutrients, hormones, and other important substances throughout their tissues.
Transpiration, the process by which plants release water vapor through their leaves, is responsible for the movement of sap. However, transpiration is less effective at night due to closed stomata, the tiny openings on leaves that regulate gas exchange. This is where guttation comes into play.
Guttation serves as an alternative mechanism for plants to force sap and water up and down their tissues when transpiration is not sufficient. The pressure inside the plant increases, causing liquid to be pushed out through specialized structures called hydathodes. These hydathodes are located on the leaf edges or tips, and they serve as the exit points for the droplets.
While guttation is a natural and harmless process, it can sometimes indicate certain conditions or issues with the plant. Excessive guttation may be a sign of overwatering, as the plant is unable to effectively regulate the movement of water. On the other hand, if a plant is not showing any signs of guttation, it could be an indication of dehydration or insufficient water uptake.
It’s important to note that guttation should not be confused with dew, which is moisture that condenses on the surface of leaves due to temperature changes. Guttation occurs from within the plant and is not influenced by external factors like dew.
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across instances of guttation while tending to various plants. I have observed small droplets forming on the edges of grass blades in the early morning, especially after a night of heavy watering or rainfall. This natural occurrence has never caused any harm to the plants, and it’s actually quite fascinating to witness.
To summarize, when a plant is “crying,” it is undergoing guttation, a process where it releases liquid droplets from its leaves. This phenomenon occurs when transpiration is not as effective during the night, and guttation takes over to maintain the flow of sap and water within the plant. Guttation can indicate normal plant respiration, but excessive or lack of guttation may suggest issues with watering or hydration.
