What is gutation?

Guttation is the process by which plants lose water in the form of droplets from the tips of their leaves. It occurs when the rate of water uptake by the roots is greater than the rate of water loss through transpiration, and the excess water is forced out through the stomata. Guttation is most common in the morning, when the air is cool and humid and the rate of transpiration is low. It is also more likely to occur in plants that are well-watered or growing in humid environments.

Guttation can be seen on many different types of plants, but it is especially common in grasses and other plants with long, narrow leaves. The drops of water that are exuded by the plants can be clear, cloudy, or even milky in appearance. Guttation does not harm plants and is actually a sign of good health and vigor.