Water Stress

The damage caused by too little (or too much) water is called water stress.


Water-stressed plants exhibit these symptoms:

• Wilting or drooping leaves do not return to normal by evening.
• Curled or chlorotic (yellow) leaves that may fold or drop.
• Foliage becomes grayish and loses its green luster.
• New leaves are small.

Water stress can be due to extended drought, long, hot summers, and irrigation failures. On the other side of the same coin, flooding, urban drool, and heavy rains can create a different type of water stress. When soil is waterlogged, plants cannot breathe.


Water-stressed trees and plants are more susceptible to pests and diseases. As trees die, erosion increases, causing more drying out. It's a tough cycle. Rather than letting household water go down the drain, collect it in a tub or bucket and give it to your local trees. You'll be happy about the shade this summer!