Subirrigation, a method of delivering moisture to plants, involves providing water from beneath the soil surface rather than overhead. This process allows the roots to absorb the necessary hydration as needed, promoting healthier growth. An example of this would be placing a potted plant in a shallow tray filled with water, allowing the soil to draw up moisture through the drainage holes.
This watering technique offers several advantages. It reduces water loss through evaporation, minimizes the risk of foliar diseases by keeping leaves dry, and encourages deeper root growth as plants seek moisture from below. Historically, methods resembling subirrigation have been used in agriculture for centuries, demonstrating its enduring effectiveness in various growing environments.