Signs of a Lack of Water in Plants

Plants require varying amounts of supplemental water, depending on the type of plant, growing conditions and amount of rainfall. Young plants need more irrigation than older plants that have developed an established root system. Monitoring the rainfall and amount of water you supply through irrigation helps determine if the plant's water needs are met. Plants also provide physical signs if they are running low on water.

Leaf Changes

The plant's leaves often show the first signs of too little water. They begin to wilt or droop from lack of moisture. Grass blades wilt and fail to spring back up when stepped on. You may notice shiny plant leaves turning dull. Over time the wilting becomes more pronounced and sometimes becomes permanent. Leaves and stems may turn yellowish or brown with prolonged lack of water. Some plants with drought stress appear scorched along the leaf edges.

Slowed Growth

Plants that don't receive enough water show a slowdown in growth. If the plant experiences a temporary decrease in water supply, the growth may just slow for a short period. When watering resumes, the plant will likely resume growth. A long-term lack of water may cause the plant to stop growing completely. Leaves that do grow may appear smaller than usual. On trees and shrubs, some branches may die or drop.

Decreased Production

Because the plant doesn't have enough water to grow properly, a drought-stressed plant often displays a decrease in production. Fruits and vegetables produce fewer crops, affecting your overall yield for the growing season. Flowering plants, trees and shrubs grow fewer buds, resulting in fewer flowers. If irrigation is increased during the growing season, the plant may come back and increase production.

Plant Damage

Extended periods without enough water can cause more severe damage to plants. Instead of just wilting or drooping, the leaves eventually begin to die and drop off of the plant. The weakened root system and stem of the plant becomes more susceptible to damage from insects and diseases. The plant can eventually die if the damage is severe enough. In some cases, supplemental irrigation brings back a plant that appears dead.

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