What is the importance of turgor pressure in plants?

Turgor pressure is a vital aspect of plant physiology that primarily helps maintain cell structure and firmness. This pressure is created within plant cells when water enters the vacuoles of the cells, pushing the cell membrane against the rigid cell wall. When turgor pressure is adequate, it helps keep the plant upright and supports leaves and stems, allowing them to capture sunlight effectively for processes such as photosynthesis. Conversely, when turgor pressure is low, plants may wilt, leading to a decrease in photosynthesis efficiency and overall health.

While turgor pressure does indirectly influence other processes, such as nutrient uptake and growth, its most direct and essential role is in maintaining the integrity and structure of the plant cells, thereby contributing to the overall stability and health of the plant.