Wilting Point

The wilting point is the stage at which plants can no longer extract sufficient water from the soil to meet their needs. When soil moisture levels drop below this point, plants begin to lose turgor pressure, leading to wilting, where leaves and stems droop. This occurs because the water available in the soil is tightly bound to soil particles and is not accessible to the plant roots. Understanding the wilting point is critical for agriculture and gardening, as it helps in managing irrigation and ensuring plants receive adequate moisture for healthy growth.