How does excessive watering affect plants?

Excessive watering negatively impacts plants primarily by causing root rot and oxygen deprivation. When soil is overly saturated, it creates an environment where air pockets required for healthy root respiration are diminished. Roots need oxygen to function correctly, and without it, plant health deteriorates.

In severely waterlogged conditions, beneficial oxygen levels drop, leading to anaerobic conditions that can cause decay pathogens to thrive. These pathogens attack the roots, which can result in root rot, a condition detrimental to the plant’s overall vitality. This lack of proper root function can cause various symptoms, such as wilting, yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and eventually, plant death if not addressed.

Understanding the balance of watering is crucial for maintaining healthy plants, as this practice can directly influence their growth and development.