Although a leaf is a plant organ whose primary function is to perform photosynthesis, it also has many other functions such as transpiration, storage of water and energy-rich molecules, defense, structure, etc. To perform these tasks, leaves have evolved different structures. One of the most important is epidermis. The conditions on the leaf surface constantly change due to the weather; one of the most noticeable changes is leaf wetting. In our climate, this is a common occurrence, with rainfall, dew, fog and various agrotechnical measures, such as application of plant protection products, irrigation, fogging and showering of potted plants. Leaf wetness can negatively affect the most important plant functions, as it reduces photosynthesis and gas exchange, changes the energy balance of a plant, impairs nutrient uptake and obstructs the reproduction. Leaf wetting can lead to leaf damage: sunburns or the uptake of toxic substances, and results in the development of pathogens. Water on leaves can also have a positive effect on a plant, as it improves its water status, it protects plants against pathogen organisms, it can lead to self-cleaning of the leaf surface. In addition, wetting enables direct absorption of nutrients into a plant, which has been used in agriculture for a long time, known as foliar fertilization.
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