Guttation is the process where plants secrete water from the tips of their leaves. This typically occurs in plants with vascular systems.
Understanding Guttation
Guttation is not dew. It's an active process within the plant, resulting from root pressure.
Plants that exhibit Guttation
Several plants are known to exhibit guttation, including:
- Grass
- Wheat
- Barley
- Tomatoes
- Strawberries
- Other small plants
Why does Guttation occur?
Guttation happens when the root pressure is high, and transpiration (water loss from leaves) is low, such as during the night or in highly humid conditions. The excess water is then forced out through specialized structures called hydathodes, located at the leaf tips or edges. The secreted fluid contains not only water but also various dissolved minerals and sugars.
