what is wilting in plants

Wilting is the loss of rigidity of non-woody parts of plants, which occurs when the turgor pressure in non-lignified plant cells falls towards zero, as a result of diminished water in the cells. Wilting can be caused by several factors, including drought or waterlogged soil, lack of light, overwatering, underwatering, ageing growth, and being outgrown from its pot. Wilting for short periods of time does not harm plants, but over a prolonged period, drought will cause serious damage, such as yellowing, leaf scorch, browning, leaf drop, or stunted growth. Extended periods of drought also inhibit flower and fruit formation. Conversely, vegetable plant roots growing in poorly drained soils can quickly become deprived of needed oxygen leading to wilting and yellowing, and browning of leaves and stems. Wilting diminishes the plants ability to transpire and grow, and permanent wilting leads to plant death. If a wilted plant doesn’t perk up after receiving water and generally looks unhealthy, one of the plant diseases, known collectively as “wilt,” that cause plants to wilt and discolor may be to blame.