What is the term for the process of watering plants through permeable soil?

The term for the process of watering plants through permeable soil is infiltration. Infiltration refers to the movement of water from the surface into the soil, allowing moisture to reach the root zone of plants effectively. This process is vital for plant health, as it ensures that the soil retains sufficient water for absorption by roots.

During infiltration, water moves through the soil profile, influenced by factors such as soil texture, structure, and moisture content. The ability of soil to allow water to infiltrate effectively can affect irrigation practices and overall agricultural productivity.

The other processes mentioned—percolation, evaporation, and transpiration—are related but distinct from infiltration. Percolation refers to the downward movement of water through soil layers after it has infiltrated, while evaporation involves the transformation of liquid water into vapor. Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere from their leaves. Thus, infiltration specifically denotes the initial movement of water into the soil where it can be utilized by plant roots.