FFA Horticulture CDE General Practice Exam

What happens when water fills the air spaces in the soil?

1. The plant may thrive

2. The plant may drown

3. The soil develops better aeration

4. The roots receive more oxygen

The correct answer is: The plant may drown

When water fills the air spaces in the soil, it creates a condition known as waterlogging. This situation can lead to the plant drowning due to a lack of oxygen in the root zone. Plant roots require oxygen to perform cellular respiration, which is essential for their growth and health. When soil becomes saturated with water, the air pockets that normally contain oxygen are displaced, preventing the roots from accessing the oxygen they need. Consequently, if the plant's roots are deprived of oxygen for too long, the roots may begin to die, leading to reduced nutrient uptake, stunted growth, and, eventually, plant death. While some plants can tolerate waterlogged conditions temporarily, prolonged exposure typically results in adverse effects, confirming that the plant may drown when subjected to such circumstances.