Question

A gardener forgot to water a potted plant for a day during summer, what will happen to the plant? Do you think it is reversible? If yes, how?

Answer 1

Transpiration:

In summer since light intensity and temperature is high the rate of transpiration is high. The plant will lose water


Wilting:

Since the plant has not been watered there will be no sufficient water to absorb , thus the rate of transpiration will be higher than the rate of absorption of water. This will cause the plant cells to become flaccid. If this condition prolongs for too long it might lead to wilting of leaves.

Reversible:

If enough water is given to the plant, the plant can recover. The water will be absorbed by the plant causing the cells to become turgid.


Conclusion:

During summer the rate of transpiration is high. Thus the plant cells will become flaccid and wilting of leaves will occur, if the gardener forgot to water the plant for a day. This condition can be revived if he waters the plant within a certain time. If not watered within a certain time then it will lead to permanent wilting of leaves.