Wilting
Wilting refers to the loss of rigidity of non-woody plants. This occurs when the turgor pressure in non-lignified plant cells falls towards zero, as a result of diminished water in the cells. Lower water availability may result from:
- drought conditions, where the soil moisture drops below conditions most favorable for plant functioning;
- saturated soil conditions, where roots are unable to obtain sufficient oxygen for cellular respiration, and so are unable to transport water into the plant; or
- bacteria or fungi that clog the plant's vascular system.
Wilting diminishes the plant's ability to transpire and grow. Permanant wilting leads to plant death. Symptoms of wilting and blights resemble one another.
In woody plants, reduced water availability leads to cavitation of the xylem.