What type of plants requires more frequent irrigation?

Fast-growing annual plants require more frequent irrigation primarily because they have shorter life cycles and rapid growth rates. These plants actively absorb water and nutrients to maximize their growth in a limited time span, which often leads to a higher demand for moisture compared to slower-growing species. Annuals typically complete their life cycle in one growing season, which places them under a constant need for water to support their rapid development and flowering processes.

In contrast, succulent plants have adaptations that allow them to store water in their tissues, reducing their need for frequent irrigation. Perennial shrubs, while they may also grow quickly, tend to have more established root systems that allow them to source moisture more effectively from the soil over time. Native desert plants are specifically adapted to survive in arid conditions and, therefore, have lower water requirements, thriving with infrequent irrigation.