What causes a plant to wilt?

Wilting in plants primarily occurs due to insufficient water. When a plant does not receive enough water, it cannot maintain turgor pressure within its cells, which is essential for keeping the plant upright and firm. Turgor pressure is the pressure of the cell contents against the cell wall, and when this pressure drops, the cells become flaccid, leading to wilting.

In conditions where water is scarce, the stomata (tiny openings on leaves) may also close to conserve moisture, which further limits the plant's ability to photosynthesize and carry out other essential functions. Therefore, without adequate water, the overall health and vitality of the plant are compromised, resulting in a limp appearance.

While other factors such as excess water, pests, or diseases can affect a plant's health, insufficient water is a direct and common cause of wilting, as it affects the plant's ability to maintain its structural integrity.