What is a common consequence of over-irrigation?

Over-irrigation can lead to waterlogging, which occurs when excess water saturates the soil, preventing air from reaching the roots of plants. This saturation results in a reduced availability of oxygen, a critical component for healthy root function and overall plant growth. When roots are deprived of oxygen, they may become stressed or even die, which directly impacts the plant's health and productivity.

While it might be assumed that adequate watering would enhance nutrient absorption, over-irrigation can actually wash nutrients away from the root zone, leading to nutrient deficiencies in the plants. Improved soil structure is also typically a result of proper moisture levels and organic matter, not excessive water. Additionally, increased yield potential is not a guaranteed result of over-irrigation; instead, it can often have the opposite effect due to the adverse conditions created by waterlogging. Hence, the primary and most direct consequence of over-irrigation is the waterlogging that hinders oxygen availability to the roots.